CITY OF CARSON
MINUTES
CARSON CITY COUNCIL/
SUCCESSOR AGENCY/HOUSING AUTHORITY
REGULAR MEETING
TUESDAY, AUGUST 4, 2026, 5:00 P.M.
CALL TO ORDER: CITY COUNCIL/SUCCESSOR AGENCY/HOUSING AUTHORITY (5:00 pm) The meeting was called to order at 5:07 P.M. by Mayor for the Day Kendle Lemle-Pledger in the Helen Kawagoe Council Chambers, Carson City Hall, located at 701 E. Carson Street, Carson, California 90745.
ROLL CALL (CITY CLERK)
City Clerk/Agency Secretary/Authority Secretary, Dr. Khaleah K. Bradshaw noted the roll:
Council Members/Agency Members/Authority Board Members Present:
Mayor/Agency Chairman/Authority Chairman Lula Davis-Holmes Mayor Pro Tempore/Agency Vice Chairman/Authority Vice Chairman Cedric Hicks, Sr.
Council Member/Agency Member/Authority Board Member Jim Dear Council Member/Agency Member/Authority Board Member, Dr. Jawane Hilton (Via Zoom) Council Member/Agency Member/Authority Board Member Arleen Rojas Also Present:
Monica Cooper, City/Agency/Authority Treasurer; Sunny Soltani, City/Agency/Authority Attorney (remotely via Zoom); Benjamin Jones, Assistant City Attorney; Shukan Patel, Assistant City Attorney; David C. Roberts, Jr., City Manager; Dr. Robert Lennox, Assistant City Manager; John Raymond, Executive Director; Michael Whittiker, Jr., Director of Community Services; Dr. Arlington Rodgers, Jr., Director of Public Works; Gary Carter, Director of Information Technology and Security; Nora Garcia, Director of Public Safety and Emergency Management; William Jefferson, Director of Finance; Thomas Toman, Deputy City Manager; Armine Chaparyan, Deputy City Manager; Michael George, Government Affairs Officer; Reata Kulcsar, Energy and Sustainability Officer; Kourtney Cullors, Chief Deputy City Clerk; and Shevae Palmer, Senior Clerk
FLAG SALUTE
Mayor Pro Tempore/Agency Vice Chairman/Authority Vice Chairman Hicks, Sr. led the Pledge of Allegiance.
INVOCATION (Item 1)
1. BISHOP KEITH MADDOX FROM EKKLESIA OF CHRIST APOSTOLIC, INC.
Bishop Keith Maddox gave the invocation.
Mayor/Agency Chairman/Authority Chairman Davis-Holmes reported that Council Member/Agency Member/Authority Board Member, Dr. Hilton is joining the meeting via remote at 914 North Newport Avenue, in Tampa, Florida.
CLOSED SESSION (Items 2-3)
2. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – EXISTING LITIGATION (CITY COUNCIL) — A closed session will be held, pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1), to confer with legal counsel regarding pending litigation to which the City of Carson is a party. The titles of such litigation are as follows: Isaias Pulido v. City of Carson, et al (Case No. 24STCV14430); and City of Carson v. James Dear, (Los Angeles Superior Court Case No. 26STRO04193).
ACTION: No reportable action was taken.
3. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – ANTICIPATED LITIGATION (CITY COUNCIL) — A closed session will be held, pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(2) or (d)(3) and (e)(1), because there is a significant exposure to litigation in two cases.
ACTION: No reportable action was taken.
REPORT ON ANY PUBLIC COMMENTS ON CLOSED SESSION ITEMS (CITY CLERK) This item was heard after Item No. 6.
None.
ANNOUNCEMENT OF CLOSED SESSION ITEMS (CITY ATTORNEY)
Assistant City Attorney Jones announced the Closed Session items.
RECESS INTO CLOSED SESSION UNTIL 6:00 P.M. OR UNTIL THE END OF CLOSED SESSION, WHICHEVER
OCCURS FIRST
The meeting was recessed at 5:20 P.M. by Mayor/Agency Chairman/Authority Chairman Davis-Holmes to Closed Session.
2. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – ANTICIPATED LITIGATION (CITY COUNCIL)
3. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – EXISTING LITIGATION (CITY COUNCIL) RULES OF DECORUM:
A recording of the Rules of Decorum was presented at the beginning of the meeting.
RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION AT 6:00 P.M. OR AT THE END OF CLOSED SESSION, WHICHEVER OCCURS FIRST
The meeting was reconvened at 6:10 P.M. by Mayor/Agency Chairman/Authority Chairman Davis-Holmes with all members previously noted present.
REPORT ON CLOSED SESSION ACTIONS (CITY ATTORNEY)
Assistant City Attorney Jones gave the Closed Session Report.
INTRODUCTIONS (MAYOR) (Items 4-5)
4. REPORT FROM CAPTAIN NORMAN OF CARSON SHERIFF'S STATION- 6:20 PM Not present.
Motion to add a presentation from the Samoan Federation for Samoan Flag Day to the agenda submitted by Mayor Davis-Holmes seconded by Council Member Dear resulting in 5-0-0-0-0 NOTE: There was no representative available to give a presentation from the Samoan Federation for Samoan Flag Day.
Item No. 4 was heard after Item No. 5.
Captain Norman provided a report on recent law enforcement activities. She invited Carson residents to attend the Annual Community Night Out, August 5, 2026, from 5:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. She gave a crime report.
5. REPORT FROM ACTING ASSISTANT CHIEF WADE KELSEY OF LOS ANGELES COUNTY FIRE- 6:17 PM Mayor/Agency Chairman/Authority Chairman Davis-Holmes reported that the Acting Assistant Chief had to leave the meeting.
Item No. 5 was heard again after Item No. 8.
On behalf of Acting Assistant Chief Wade Kelsey, Battalion Chief Mario Natividad presented the County of Los Angeles Fire Department activity report for the City of Carson for the month of July.
PRESENTATIONS (Items 6-8)
6. CERTIFICATE RECOGNIZING KENDLE LEMLE-PLEDGER AS MAYOR FOR THE DAY Item No. 6 was heard after Item No. 1.
Mayor/Agency Chairman/Authority Chairman Davis-Holmes introduced Kendle Lemle-Pledger as Mayor for the Day and offered comments.
Council Member/Agency Member/Authority Board Member Rojas offered comments and presented the Certificate of Recognition to Kendle Lemle-Pledger who offered words of gratitude.
7. INFORMATIONAL UPDATE ON THE UPCOMING CARSON CLIMATE ACTION PLAN COMMUNITY WORKSHOP & RESOURCE FAIR, AUGUST 11, 2026, FROM 6-8 PM AT THE CARSON COMMUNITY CENTER Item No. 7 was heard after Item No. 5.
Energy and Sustainability Officer Reata Kulcsar gave the Informational Update on the upcoming Carson Climate Action Plan Community Workshop & Resource Fair.
8. CARSON CAJUN & BLUES WHITE LINEN AFFAIR RECAP VIDEO
Staff presented the Carson Cajun & Blues White Linen Affair Recap Video.
Mayor Pro Tempore/Agency Vice Chairman/Authority Vice Chairman Hicks, Sr. thanked staff, volunteers and all who attended the event. Also, he thanked the Mayor and City Council for their support.
Mayor/Agency Chairman/Authority Chairman Davis-Holmes asked the City Clerk to report Council Member, Dr.
Hilton's location where he is viewing the meeting. City Clerk/Agency Secretary/Authority Secretary, Dr. Bradshaw reported in accordance with the Brown Act, Council Member, Dr. Hilton is attending the meeting remotely via Zoom located at 914 North Newport Avenue, in Tampa, Florida 33606. The precise location is published on the agenda in accordance with the Brown Act.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS FOR MATTERS LISTED ON THE AGENDA (MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC) (LIMITED TO
ONE HOUR)
This item was heard after Item No. 4.
(Mayor Pro Tempore/Agency Vice Chairman/Authority Vice Chairman Hicks, Sr. exited the meeting at 6:23 P.M. and reentered the meeting at 6:24 P.M.)
The following individuals offered comments in opposition to Item No. 25.
Seiuli Fa'auliulito Meni-Trood
Bryant Odega
Alicia Baltazar
This item was heard again after Item No. 21.
Monica Caballero
Offered comments in opposition to Item No. 25
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
None.
CONSENT (Items 9-21)
City Manager Roberts, Jr. requested to continue Consent Items No. 13 and 14.
Mayor Pro Tempore/Agency Vice Chairman/Authority Vice Chairman Hicks, Sr. requested to remove Item No. 21 for discussion.
Motion To Approve submitted by Cedric L. Hicks Sr. seconded by Jim Dear resulting in 5-0-0-0-0
9. CONSIDER RESOLUTION NO. 26-083, A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF CARSON RATIFYING CLAIMS AND DEMANDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $9,539,444.30 DEMAND CHECK NUMBERS 186336 THROUGH 186544 AND 317. (CITY COUNCIL)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. WAIVE further reading and ADOPT Resolution No. 26-083, "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARSON ALLOWING CLAIMS AND DEMANDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $9,539,444.30 DEMAND CHECK NUMBERS 186336 THROUGH 186544 AND 317."
ACTION: Item No. 9 was approved on Consent.
10. CONSIDER MONTHLY INVESTMENT AND CASH REPORT FOR THE CITY OF CARSON, CARSON HOUSING AUTHORITY, CARSON SUCCESSOR AGENCY-MONTH ENDING JUNE 30, 2026 (CITY COUNCIL)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. RECEIVE and FILE this report.
ACTION: Item No. 10 was approved on Consent.
11. CONSIDER AN UPDATE ON CITY COMMISSIONS (CITY COUNCIL)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. RECEIVE and FILE this report.
ACTION: Item No. 11 was approved on Consent.
12. CONSIDER TAKING A POSITION OF SUPPORT FOR THE CITY OF MURRIETA'S RESOLUTION
REQUESTING THE LEAGUE OF CALIFORNIA CITIES TO ESTABLISH A WORKING GROUP TO EVALUATE
STRATEGIES TO RESTORE LOCAL HOUSING AND LAND USE AUTHORITY (CITY COUNCIL)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. TAKE a position of SUPPORT for the proposed Resolution and DIRECT staff to transmit the corresponding letter included as Exhibit 1.
ACTION: Item No. 12 was approved on Consent.
13. CONSIDER ADOPTING RESOLUTION NO. 26-081 OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARSON, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING THE CLASSIFICATION PLAN, RESOLUTION NO. 77-111, BY ADOPTING UPDATED
JOB CLASSIFICATION SPECIFICATIONS FOR UNREPRESENTED SENIOR COUNCIL AIDE AND COUNCIL
AIDE POSITIONS, AND AMENDING THE TERMS OF THE COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS EXHIBIT, TO
UPDATE THE DUTIES AND EXPECTATIONS OF THE POSITIONS (CITY COUNCIL)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. WAIVE further reading and ADOPT Resolution No. 26-081, “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARSON, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING THE CLASSIFICATION PLAN, RESOLUTION NO. 77- 111, BY ADOPTING UPDATED JOB CLASSIFICATION SPECIFICATIONS FOR UNREPRESENTED SENIOR
COUNCIL AIDE AND COUNCIL AIDE POSITIONS, AND AMENDING THE TERMS OF THE COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS EXHIBIT, TO UPDATE THE DUTIES AND EXPECATIONS OF THE POSITIONS” ACTION: Mayor/Agency Chairman/Authority Chairman Davis-Holmes continued Item No. 13 at the request of staff with no objection heard.
14. CONSIDER APPROVING REVISIONS TO COUNCIL POLICY NO. 1.45 TO LIMIT THE USE OF CITY
RESOURCES FOR COUNCILMEMBER TOWN HALL AND COMMUNITY MEETINGS TO FOUR CITY-FUNDED
MEETINGS PER COUNCILMEMBER PER CALENDAR YEAR, SUBJECT TO SPECIFIED EXCEPTIONS (CITY
COUNCIL)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. CONSIDER and ADOPT the updated Council Policy No. 1.45 (Exhibit 1).
ACTION: Mayor/Agency Chairman/Authority Chairman Davis-Holmes continued Item No. 14 at the request of staff with no objection heard.
15. CONSIDER ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION NO. 26-080, AMENDING THE CLASSIFICATION PLAN, RESOLUTION NO. 77-111 BY APPROVING THE CLASSIFICATION TITLE CHANGE AND REVISED
CLASSIFICATION SPECIFICATION FROM PUBLIC WORKS OPERATIONS MANAGER TO CAPITAL PROJECTS
MANAGER (CITY COUNCIL)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. WAIVE further reading and ADOPT Resolution No. 26-080, "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARSON, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING THE JOB CLASSIFICATION PLAN, RESOLUTION NO. 77-111, BY ADOPTING THE CLASSIFICATION TITLE CHANGE AND REVISED CLASSIFICATION SPECIFICATION FROM PUBLIC WORKS OPERATIONS MANAGER TO CAPITAL PROJECTS MANAGER" ACTION: Item No. 15 was approved on Consent.
16. CONSIDER AWARDING A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT TO SALAS O'BRIEN ENGINEERS, INC.
FOR ENGINEERING DESIGN SERVICES FOR THE VETERANS PARK MICROGRID AND COOLING CENTER
IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT (CITY COUNCIL)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. AWARD and APPROVE a Professional Services Agreement with Salas O'Brien Engineers, Inc. in an amount not to exceed $244,850 to provide environmental review, engineering design, and construction support services for the Veterans Park Microgrid and Cooling Center Improvements Project; and, — 2. AUTHORIZE the Mayor to execute the Agreement, following approval as to form by the City Attorney.
ACTION: Item No. 16 was approved on Consent.
17. CONSIDER APPROVAL OF THE FY 2026-2027 SERVICE LEVEL AUTHORIZATION AND AUTHORIZE THE
CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE SERVICE LEVEL AUTHORIZATION WITH THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY
SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT (CITY COUNCIL)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. APPROVE the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department Service Level Authorization (SH-AD 575) for FY 2026-2027; and,
— 2. AUTHORIZE the City Manager to execute the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department Service Level Authorization (SH-AD 575) for FY 2026-2027.
ACTION: Item No. 17 was approved on Consent.
18. CONSIDER APPROVAL OF FISCAL YEAR 2026-2027 SERVICE LEVEL REQUEST AGREEMENT WITH THE
LOS ANGELES COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF ANIMAL CARE AND CONTROL (LADACC) (CITY COUNCIL)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. APPROVE the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Service Level Request with the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control; and,
— 2. AUTHORIZE the Assistant City Manager to execute the Service Level Agreement with Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control (LADACC).
ACTION: Item No. 18 was approved on Consent.
19. CONSIDER APPROVAL OF A WIRELINE CROSSING AGREEMENT WITH UNION PACIFIC RAILROAD
COMPANY FOR RIGHTS TO CONSTRUCT, MAINTAIN, AND OPERATE THE CITY'S FIBER OPTIC NETWORK
ON, ALONG, ACROSS, AND UNDER RAILROAD PROPERTY (CITY COUNCIL)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. APPROVE the Wireline Crossing Agreement between the City of Carson and Union Pacific Railroad Company for rights to construct, maintain, and operate city fiber optic network on, along, across, and under railroad property; and,
— 2. AUTHORIZE the Mayor to execute the Wireline Crossing Agreement with Union Pacific Railroad Company following approval as to form by the City Attorney.
ACTION: Item No. 19 was approved on Consent.
20. CONSIDER APPROVAL OF AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO THE PURCHASE AGREEMENT WITH ROADLINE PRODUCTS INC., U.S.A. FOR THE AS-NEEDED PURCHASE OF PAVEMENT MARKING PAINT, TRAFFIC SIGN
MATERIALS, SIGN EQUIPMENT, AND RELATED SUPPLIES FOR THE PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT (CITY
COUNCIL)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. APPROVE Amendment No. 1 to the Purchase Agreement with Roadline Products Inc., U.S.A. for the as-needed purchase of pavement marking paint, paint supplies, traffic sign materials, sign equipment, and related supplies, increasing the contract authority by $200,000 for a revised total contract amount not to exceed $800,000, and extending the agreement through November 15, 2027; and, — 2. AUTHORIZE the Mayor to execute Amendment No. 1 to the Purchase Agreement, subject to approval as to form by the City Attorney.
ACTION: Item No. 20 was approved on Consent.
21. CONSIDER AWARD OF A CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT TO RJ NOBLE COMPANY FOR PROJECT NO. 1608:
MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. STREET REHABILITATION FROM MAIN STREET TO AVALON BOULEVARD (CITY
COUNCIL)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. AWARD a Construction Contract to RJ Noble Company, the lowest responsive and responsible bidder, in an amount not to exceed $4,972,715.75, for Project No. 1608, Martin Luther King Jr. Street Rehabilitation from Main Street to Avalon Boulevard; and, — 2. AUTHORIZE a construction contingency in the amount of $745,907.36 (15 percent of the contract amount) to address unforeseen conditions or additional work that may be encountered during construction, including but not limited to underground utility conflicts, unforeseen subsurface conditions, contaminated soil investigation, handling and disposal, material testing, and other work necessary to successfully complete the project; and,
— 3. AUTHORIZE the Mayor to execute the Construction Contract, subject to approval as to form by the City Attorney.
** Item was Removed from Consent
Item No. 21 was heard after approval of the the Consent items.
Mayor Pro Tempore/Agency Vice Chairman/Authority Vice Chairman Hicks, Sr. asked staff for an update.
Director, Dr. Rodgers, Jr. gave a report.
** Item was Removed from Consent
Motion To Approve submitted by Cedric L. Hicks Sr. seconded by Jim Dear resulting in 5-0-0-0-0
SPECIAL ORDERS OF THE DAY
None.
DISCUSSION (Items 22-28)
22. CONSIDER AN UPDATE ON CITY PROJECTS (CITY COUNCIL)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. DISCUSS this report.
Item No. 22 was heard after Item No. 23.
ACTION: Director, Dr. Rodgers, Jr. gave a PowerPoint presentation update on city projects.
Mayor Pro Tempore/Agency Vice Chairman/Authority Vice Chairman Hicks, Sr. wanted to ensure that the Juneteenth Celebration returns to Mills Park after completion of the project. Staff responded in the affirmative.
Mayor/Agency Chairman/Authority Chairman Davis-Holmes ordered this item received and filed with no objection heard.
23. CONSIDER ADOPTION OF RESOLUTIONS SUBMITTING A GENERAL OIL REFINERY BUSINESS LICENSE TAX MEASURE TO THE VOTERS AT THE NOVEMBER 3, 2026, GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION AND
REQUESTING CONSOLIDATION WITH THE STATEWIDE GENERAL ELECTION TO BE HELD ON THE SAME
DATE (CITY COUNCIL)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. WAIVE further reading and ADOPT Resolution No. 26-086 entitled, “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARSON, CALIFORNIA, CALLING FOR THE HOLDING OF A GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION TO BE HELD ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2026 FOR THE PURPOSE OF
SUBMITTING TO THE QUALIFIED VOTERS OF THE CITY A GENERAL TAX MEASURE ESTABLISHING A
BUSINESS LICENSE TAX UPON THE BUSINESS OF CONDUCTING OIL REFINING IN THE CITY OF CARSON,
REQUESTING CONSOLIDATION WITH THE STATEWIDE GENERAL ELECTION TO BE HELD ON THE SAME
DATE, AND REQUESTING THAT THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY REGISTRAR-RECORDER/COUNTY CLERK CONDUCT ALL NECESSARY ELECTION SERVICES”;
— 2. WAIVE further reading and ADOPT Resolution No. 26-087 entitled, “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARSON, CALIFORNIA, SETTING PRIORITIES FOR FILING WRITTEN
ARGUMENTS AND DIRECTING THE CITY ATTORNEY TO PREPARE AN IMPARTIAL ANALYSIS REGARDING A
GENERAL TAX MEASURE ESTABLISHING A BUSINESS LICENSE TAX UPON THE BUSINESS OF CONDUCTING
OIL REFINING IN THE CITY OF CARSON TO BE SUBMITTED TO THE VOTERS AT THE GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION TO BE HELD ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2026“; AND
— 3. WAIVE further reading and ADOPT Resolution No. 26-088 entitled, “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARSON, CALIFORNIA, PROVIDING FOR THE FILING OF REBUTTAL
ARGUMENTS REGARDING A GENERAL TAX MEASURE ESTABLISHING A BUSINESS LICENSE TAX UPON THE
BUSINESS OF CONDUCTING OIL REFINING IN THE CITY OF CARSON TO BE SUBMITTED AT THE GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION TO BE HELD ON NOVEMBER 3, 2026.”
Item No. 23 was heard after Oral Communications For Matters Listed on the Agenda (Members of the Public).
Assistant City Attorney Shukan Patel gave a report.
Public Comments:
The following individuals offered comments in opposition to Item No. 23.
Louie Diaz
Vincent Burr
Patty Senecal
Peter Estrada
Stephen Clenard
Ernesto Medrano
Ricardo Sanchez
Michael Stewart
Lena Whittaker
Xochitl Medrano
Dianne Thomas - offered comments in support of Item No. 23 Chad Elliott
Patrick Dobler
Mayor/Agency Chairman/Authority Chairman Davis-Holmes shared slides regarding Marathon Petroleum Corp. and the City's Unfunded Capital Projects FY 26/27.
Assistant City Attorney Patel confirmed revenue reported by Marathon Petroleum Corp.
City/Agency/Authority Attorney Soltani offered comments.
Council Member/Agency Member/Authority Board Member, Dr. Hilton offered comments.
Council Member/Agency Member/Authority Board Member Dear asked about Marathon Petroleum Corp. profits versus revenues. City/Agency/Authority Attorney Soltani responded to his question.
Council Member/Agency Member/Authority Board Member Dear offered a substitute motion to reject staff's recommendations which failed for lack of a second.
Motion To Approve submitted by Mayor Lula Davis-Holmes seconded by Cedric L. Hicks Sr. resulting in 4-1-0- 0-0 Opposed by Jim Dear
24. CONSIDER RESOLUTIONS TO SUBMIT A CARSON CITY CHARTER AMENDMENT TO THE VOTERS AT THE NOVEMBER 3, 2026, GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION (CITY COUNCIL)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. WAIVE further reading and ADOPT Resolution No. 26-092 entitled, “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARSON, CALIFORNIA, CALLING FOR THE HOLDING OF A GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION TO BE HELD ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2026 FOR THE PURPOSE OF
SUBMITTING TO THE QUALIFIED VOTERS OF THE CITY A CHARTER AMENDMENT MEASURE INCLUDING AMENDMENT OF SECTIONS 301, 319, AND 907 OF, AND ADDITION OF NEW SECTION 320 TO THE CITY
CHARTER, REQUESTING CONSOLIDATION WITH THE STATEWIDE GENERAL ELECTION TO BE HELD ON
THE SAME DATE, AND REQUESTING THAT THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY REGISTRAR-RECORDER/COUNTY CLERK CONDUCT ALL NECESSARY ELECTION SERVICES.”
— 2. WAIVE further reading and ADOPT Resolution No. 26-093 entitled, “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARSON, CALIFORNIA, SETTING PRIORITIES FOR FILING WRITTEN
ARGUMENTS AND DIRECTING THE CITY ATTORNEY TO PREPARE AN IMPARTIAL ANALYSIS REGARDING A
PROPOSED CHARTER AMENDMENT MEASURE TO BE SUBMITTED TO THE VOTERS AT THE GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION TO BE HELD ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2026.” — 3. WAIVE further reading and ADOPT Resolution No. 26-094 entitled, “A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARSON, CALIFORNIA, PROVIDING FOR THE FILING OF REBUTTAL
ARGUMENTS REGARDING THE CHARTER AMENDMENT MEASURE TO BE SUBMITTED AT THE GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION TO BE HELD ON NOVEMBER 3, 2026.”
Item No. 24 was heard after Item No. 22.
City Manager Roberts, Jr. noted documents that were submitted this evening.
Council Member/Agency Member/Authority Board Member Dear requested staff to summarize the changes submitted.
Assistant City Attorney Jones noted cleanup changes making sure that all the charter provisions that reference term limits were modified as necessary and change to the ballot question to begin with shall the measure and ends with be adopted per the Elections Code. The changes are available in red line in the revised documents that have been distributed to City Council and copies are available for the public.
Assistant City Attorney Jones clarified that the motion submitted by Council Member, Dr. Hilton to also include the changes submitted this evening which Council Member, Dr. Hilton and the seconder of the motion accepted.
Motion To Approve submitted by Dr. Jawane Hilton seconded by Arleen Bocatija-Rojas resulting in 4-1-0-0-0 Opposed by Jim Dear
25. CONSIDER ADOPTION OF RESOLUTIONS TO SUBMIT A NON-BINDING ADVISORY MEASURE
REGARDING SCHOOL DISTRICT FORMATION OR REORGANIZATION IN CARSON TO THE VOTERS AT THE NOVEMBER 3, 2026, GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION, AND REQUESTING CONSOLIDATION WITH THE
STATEWIDE GENERAL ELECTION TO BE HELD ON THE SAME DATE (CITY COUNCIL)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. WAIVE further reading and ADOPT Resolution No. 26-089 entitled, "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARSON, CALIFORNIA, CALLING FOR THE HOLDING OF A GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION TO BE HELD ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2026, FOR THE PURPOSE OF
SUBMITTING TO THE QUALIFIED VOTERS OF THE CITY A NON-BINDING ADVISORY MEASURE
REGARDING SCHOOL DISTRICT FORMATION OR REORGANIZATION IN CARSON, REQUESTING
CONSOLIDATION WITH THE STATEWIDE GENERAL ELECTION TO BE HELD ON THE SAME DATE, AND
REQUESTING THAT THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY REGISTRAR-RECORDER/COUNTY CLERK CONDUCT ALL NECESSARY ELECTION SERVICES";
— 2. WAIVE further reading and ADOPT Resolution No. 26-090 entitled, "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARSON, CALIFORNIA, SETTING PRIORITIES FOR FILING WRITTEN
ARGUMENTS AND DIRECTING THE CITY ATTORNEY TO PREPARE AN IMPARTIAL ANALYSIS REGARDING A
NON-BINDING ADVISORY MEASURE CONCERNING SCHOOL DISTRICT FORMATION OR
REORGANIZATION IN CARSON, TO BE SUBMITTED TO THE VOTERS AT THE GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION TO BE HELD ON NOVEMBER 3, 2026"; AND
— 3. WAIVE further reading and ADOPT Resolution No. 26-091 entitled, "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARSON, CALIFORNIA, PROVIDING FOR THE FILING OF REBUTTAL
ARGUMENTS REGARDING A NON-BINDING ADVISORY MEASURE CONCERNING SCHOOL DISTRICT
FORMATION OR REORGANIZATION IN CARSON, TO BE SUBMITTED TO THE VOTERS AT THE GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION TO BE HELD ON NOVEMBER 3, 2026."
Council Member/Agency Member/Authority Board Member, Dr. Hilton offered comments.
Discussion ensued regarding ballot language change. Assistant City Attorney Jones proposed the language to be "Shall the City of Carson explore removing Carson from the current school districts that serve Carson and as feasible either creating a new K through 12 unified school district serving Carson or seeking annexation into another nearby existing school district" which was accepted by the maker and seconder of the motion.
Mayor and Council offered comments.
Motion fails.
Motion To Approve submitted by Dr. Jawane Hilton seconded by Mayor Lula Davis-Holmes resulting in 1-3-1- 0-0 Opposed by Arleen Bocatija-Rojas, Jim Dear, Cedric L. Hicks Sr. Abstained by Mayor Lula Davis-Holmes
26. CONSIDER RESCISSION OF PREFERENTIAL PERMIT PARKING ZONE "I" FOR AREA NEAR MILLS PARK AND ADOPT RESOLUTION 26-082, " A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARSON, CALIFORNIA, TERMINATING PREPERFENTIAL PERMIT PARKING ZONE "I" FOR AREA NEAR MILLS PARK,
AND REMOVING PREFERENTIAL PARKING REGULATIONS WITHIN THE ZONE (CITY COUNCIL)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. WAIVE further reading and adopt Resolution No. 26-082, entitled "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CARSON, CALIFORNIA, TERMINATING PREFERENTIAL PARKING ZONE 'I' NEAR
MILLS PARK AND REMOVING THE ASSOCIATED PREFERENTIAL PARKING REGULATIONS WITHIN THE ZONE."
Director, Dr. Rodgers, Jr. gave a report.
Public Comments
Samuel McKinney - support item
Trina Alexander - oppose item
Girard Sovony - oppose item
Jacqueline Howe - support item
Jordan Edwards - oppose item
Madison Edwards - oppose item
Lashawn Edwards - oppose item
Agnes Williams - oppose item
Robyn Hood - oppose item
Alisa McKinney - oppose item
Margaret Hardy - oppose item
Dianne Thomas - suggested to hold meetings for solutions to benefit the community Mayor Pro Tempore/Agency Vice Chairman/Authority Vice Chairman Hicks, Sr. proposed to consider and keep the original request by the signatures given to the City Council to keep the preferred parking in front of Mills Park from Central Avenue down Dimondale Drive to Radlett Avenue and to stop at Radlett Avenue.
Upon inquiry, Director, Dr. Rodgers, Jr. noted 50 plus one and counted the addresses. He explained the percentage of the homes that face the street of the parking permit area in question, that is what is counted, not the people but the addresses. Originally, had in the subject area of 158 homes, of the homes there was collected 100 signatures for the home representative of that home/address. 100 addresses out of 158 which was the first petition at 63%. The rescission was 50 plus one which is the threshold for the rescission of the parking permit. The criteria is 50% plus one, therefore, met that criteria.
Mayor Pro Tempore/Agency Vice Chairman/Authority Vice Chairman Hicks, Sr. requested to move forward with the rescission of the Preferential Parking Zone I for Mills Park and bring back at a Town Hall meeting near Mills Park to discuss a plan of action for the residents. He directed his Council Aide Cac Le to set up a meeting near Mills Park as soon as possible to address the issues along with the Sheriff, Code Enforcement, Public Safety, and all involved because there are issues that need to be addressed in the area. Also, look at the Parking Enforcement Team and place signage of no overnight parking around Mills Park and parking availability would be only during park hours.
Motion to approve staff recommendation in addition to refunding the funds for those who have paid, having an immediate meeting to address the issues around Mills Park with all law enforcement as well as individuals who will be assisting to making sure that we address the issues at Mills Park submitted by Mayor Pro Tempore Hicks, Sr. seconded by Mayor Davis-Holmes.
Mayor/Agency Chairman/Authority Chairman Davis-Holmes suggested that each group present this evening assign a Block Captain from each block in the community zone area.
Motion resulting in 5-0-0-0-0
Council Member/Agency Member/Authority Board Member, Dr. Hilton expressed concerns of safety.
27. CONSIDER BID PROTEST AND AWARD OF A CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT TO PUB CONSTRUCTION INC.
FOR PROJECT NO. 1636: MILLS PARK SITE IMPROVEMENTS AND PROJECT NO. 1795: MILLS PARK
BUILDING RENOVATIONS AND BUILDING PERIMETER SITE IMPROVEMENTS AND CONSIDER ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION 26-085, A RESOULTION OF THE CITY OF CARSON COUNCIL AMENDING THE FISCAL YEAR 2026-27 BUDGET IN THE GENERAL FUND, SPECIAL REVENUE FUNDS, ENTERPRISE FUNDS, AND THE
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM (CIP) FUND (CITY COUNCIL)
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. AWARD a Construction Contract to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder, PUB Construction Inc. for Project No. 1636: Mills Park Site Improvements Project and Project No. 1795 Mills Park Building Renovations and Building Perimeter Site Improvements, in an amount not to exceed $8,784,777.00. — 2. AUTHORIZE the expenditure of construction contingencies in the amount of $878,478.00 (10%) for any unforeseen construction work and other additional work the City may request as appropriate that may be necessary to complete this project.
— 3. AUTHORIZE the Mayor to execute a Construction Contract with PUB Construction Inc. approval as to form by the City Attorney.
— 4. ADOPT Resolution No. 26-085, "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF CARSON CITY COUNCIL AMENDING THE FISCAL YEAR 2026-27 BUDGET IN THE GENERAL FUND, SPECIAL REVENUE FUNDS, ENTERPRISE FUNDS, AND THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM (CIP) FUND", adding $3,000,000 of DIF funds to the project for a revised total project authority of $10,000,000. — 5. AMEND the FY26/27 CIP plan to reflect the update to the project funding Director, Dr. Rodgers, Jr. gave a report.
Motion to reject the bid protest that has been submitted from Classic Engineering Construction and approve staff recommendation nos. 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 submitted by Mayor Pro Tempore Hicks, Sr. seconded by Council Member Dear resulting in 5-0-0-0-0
Mayor/Agency Chairman/Authority Chairman Davis-Homes asked how much was spent on the first portion of the project. City Engineer Gilbert Marquez answered her question.
Mayor Pro Tempore/Agency Vice Chairman/Authority Vice Chairman Hicks, Sr. requested staff to notify the residents regarding the Mills Park project. City Manager Roberts, Jr. responded in the affirmative.
28. CONSIDERATION OF ONLY LOCAL UNCONTESTED APPOINTMENTS TO THE CITY’S COMMISSIONS,
COMMITTEES, AND BOARDS, AND CITY AFFILIATED ORGANIZATIONS BY MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL
AND CONSIDER ALL (CONTESTED AND UNCONTESTED) APPOINTMENTS TO ALL COMMISSIONS (CITY COUNCIL)- 8:46 PM
RECOMMENDED ACTION
— 1. CONSIDER and only APPOINT uncontested members to the City Commissions, Committees, and Boards;
— 2. CONSIDER and APPOINT all (contested and uncontested) members to all commissions; — 3. CONSIDER and APPOINT members to City Affiliated Organizations; — 4. DIRECT the City Clerk to notify all affected appointments of this action in writing; — 5. IF APPLICABLE, DIRECT the City Clerk to post and publish in accordance with the Maddy Act ACTION: Mayor Pro Tempore/Agency Vice Chairman/Authority Vice Chairman Hicks, Sr. asked about his appointee on the Women's Issues Commission. City Clerk/Agency Secretary/Authority Secretary, Dr. Bradshaw responded that the vacancy notice will be posted.
ORDINANCE SECOND READING
None.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS FOR MATTERS NOT LISTED ON THE AGENDA (MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC) Belinda C.
Spoke in support of Reflections Mini Park
Obinwa O.
Invited the Mayor and City Council to the second cultural show on August 29, 2026 Mayor/Agency Chairman/Authority Chairman Davis-Holmes referred Obinwa O. to the City Manager for assistance.
Danny G.
Proposed a non binding committee collaboration between California State University Dominguez Hills, City of Carson, and the County of Los Angeles to pursue grants to address legacy contamination in the Dominguez Channel adjacent properties to stop the blight at Victoria Golf Course and modernization Mayor/Agency Chairman/Authority Chairman Davis-Holmes referred Danny G. to the City Manager for assistance.
Bobby Collins
Spoke about issues surrounding Mills Park that should be reported properly and offered assistance Mayor/Agency Chairman/Authority Chairman Davis-Holmes referred Bobby Collins to Mayor Pro Tempore Hicks, Sr. and his Council Aide Cac Le for assistance.
Speaker
Spoke about the construction at Mills Park and parking issues surrounding the park
COUNCIL MEMBER REQUESTS TO ADD ITEMS TO FUTURE AGENDAS
None.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS (COUNCIL MEMBERS)
Council Member/Agency Member/Authority Board Member Dear provided an update on past events he attended on behalf of the City.
Council Member/Agency Member/Authority Board Member, Dr. Hilton invited everyone to the Fam Festival, August 22, 2026 from 12:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M. at Stevenson Park.
Mayor Pro Tempore/Agency Vice Chairman/Authority Vice Chairman Hicks, Sr. offered the following comments:
Thanked everyone who attended the annual White Linen Event which was well received at the new amphitheater Attended the Clean and Green Event hosted by the Mayor and Sanitation District Thanked Pastor Ealey and First Lady at Prevailing in Christ Ministries for hosting and supporting his Backpack Giveaway held August 1, 2026
Town Hall Meeting, August 13, 2026 at 6:30 P.M., Perry Street Mini Park Town Hall Meeting, August 20, 2026 at 6:30 P.M., Dolphin Park Be more cautious in the community since school will be starting Council Member/Agency Member/Authority Board Member Rojas offered the following comments:
Congratulated the Mayor for a successful Green and Clean event Town Hall Meeting, August 19, 2026
Thanked Public Works Department, Code Enforcement Team, Graffiti Removal Team, Sheriff Department, and Gang Enforcement Team for their work
Mayor/Agency Chairman/Authority Chairman Davis-Holmes offered the following comments:
Requested lights in the stage area of the new amphitheater Thanked Director Whittiker, Jr. and his team for their work with the Sanitation District on the Green and Clean event
Proposed to combine the Clean and Green Event with the Earth Day Event and asked Director Whittiker, Jr. to coordinate a date to co-host the combined event
Backpack Giveaway, August 8, 2026 at 9:00 A.M.
Interfaith Prayer Breakfast, August 19, 2026 at 9:00 A.M., Dominguez Room at the Carson Event Center Council Member/Agency Member/Authority Board Member Rojas announced the opening of the ASPCA Community Veterinary Clinic, 16300 S. Figueroa St., Carson; by appointment only.
ANNOUNCEMENT OF UNFINISHED OR CONTINUED CLOSED SESSION ITEMS (AS NECESSARY) None.
RECESS TO CLOSED SESSION
None.
RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION
None.
REPORT OF ACTIONS ON UNFINISHED OR CONTINUED CLOSED SESSION ITEMS None.
MEMORIAL ADJOURNMENTS
City Clerk/Agency Secretary/Authority Secretary, Dr. Bradshaw presented the following Memorial Adjournment Requests:
John A. Willis
Eltonie Savage
Corey Sylve
Richard Rey Viloria Tan
Emilio Ramos Loyola
James W. Finley, Jr.
Dr. Major F. Thomas
Maximino "Mutch" Tengco Carino, III
Jim Toman
Council Member, Dr. Hilton gave a prayer.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 9:16 P.M. by Mayor/Agency Chairman/Authority Chairman Davis-Holmes. _______________________________________
Lula Davis-Holmes
Mayor/Agency Chairman/Authority Chairman
ATTEST:
_______________________________________
Dr. Khaleah K. Bradshaw
City Clerk/Agency Secretary/Authority Secretary
_________________________
Signature