City of Commerce
Meeting Minutes
Tuesday, May 9, 2023 - 5:00 PM
CONCURRENT JOINT MEETINGS OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
COMMERCE, JOINT POWERS FINANCING AUTHORITY AND THE GOVERNING BODY
OF THE SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE COMMERCE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
COMMISSION
5:00 P.M. CLOSED SESSION
CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Argumedo called meeting to order at 5:02 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Mayor Argumedo
Mayor Pro Tem Altamirano
Councilmember Garcia
Councilmember Lainez
Councilmember Rebollo
Present: 5 -
PUBLIC COMMENT ON CLOSED SESSION ITEMS
There were no individual wishing to address the City Council on any Closed Session items.
RECESS TO CLOSED SESSION
City Council/Successor Agency recessed to Closed Session at 5:03 p.m.
1. Pursuant to Government Code §54957.6 the City Council will confer with its labor negotiator, Edgar P. Cisneros, with respect to labor negotiations pertaining to:
A. The Memoranda of Understanding between the City and the City of Commerce Employees Association on behalf of the part -time employees.
B. The Memoranda of Understanding between the City and the City of Commerce Employees Association on behalf of the mid-management and non-management full-time employees.
C. Compensation and benefits for the unrepresented full-time executive management employees.
2. Conference with Legal Counsel Pursuant to Government Code Sections 54956.9(d)(2) & City of Commerce Page 1 Printed on 5/23/2023
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(e)(2) - Regarding Anticipated/Potential Litigation - One (1) Matter.
3. Conference with Legal Counsel - Existing Litigation - Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1). One (1) case: Key Disposal & Recycling, Inc v. City of Commerce et al. - Superior Court of the State of California, County of Los Angeles, Case No. 23STCP01283.
4. Conference with Legal Counsel - Existing Litigation - Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1). One (1) case: From the Earth LLC v. City of Commerce et al. - Superior Court of the State of California, County of Los Angeles, Case No. 20STCV36221.
5. Pursuant to Government Code §54956.8, the City Council will confer with its real property negotiator, Edgar Cisneros, with respect to real estate negotiations with:
A. 5550 Harbor St., Commerce, CA 90040 (6335-025-903)
B. Wash-Tel Commerce, LLC concerning proposed price and other terms relating thereto, comprised of 6329 and 6355 Washington Boulevard, Commerce, California, commonly referred to as the Stahl Trust property.
C. Craig Realty Corporation concerning proposed price and other terms relating thereto, comprised of the former Commerce Community Development Commission-owned real property located along the Telegraph Road Corridor, south of Gaspar Avenue and north of the Commerce Casino [Tubeway Avenue], formerly known as 5809, 5819, 5823, 2901/2903, 5933, 5901, 5959, 6000, 6003 and 6233 Telegraph Road and 2240 Gaspar Avenue; 2311, 2322 and 2366 Travers Avenue, Commerce, California.
D. Various parties for 2535 Commerce Way, Commerce CA (APN: 6335-025-901)
RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION
City Council/Successor Agency reconvened to Open Session at 6:18 p.m.
ORAL CLOSED SESSION ANNOUNCEMENT
City Attorney Tapia reported on Closed Session items:
Item #1staff made a presentation, discussion was not completed and the City Council will convene to Closed session after the regular City Council meeting.
Items #5.A and #5.D not discussed.
item #5.B and #5.C- staff made a presentation, feedback was provided and no City of Commerce Page 2 Printed on 5/23/2023
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reportable action was taken by the City Council.
City Council/Successor Agency reconvened to Open Session at 10:11p.m.
City Attorney Tapia reported on Closed Session items:
Items #1.A, #1.B, and #1.C - staff made a presentation and feedback was provided.
No reportable action was taken by the City Council.
Item s#2, #3, #4, and #5.A - staff made a presentation and feedback was provided.
No reportable action was taken on any of these items.
6:00 P.M. - CITY COUNCIL MEETING
CALL TO ORDER
Mayor called regular City Council meeting to order at 6:20 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Mayor Argumedo
Mayor Pro Tem Altamirano
Councilmember Garcia
Councilmember Lainez
Councilmember Rebollo
Present: 5 -
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Assistant City Manager Domic led the Pledge of Allegiance.
INVOCATION
Councilmember Lainez offered the invocation.
APPEARANCES AND PRESENTATIONS
1. Commendation of the City Council Honoring Melissa Demirci for Her Achievements, and Community Involvement
Mayor and Councilmembers recognized Melissa Demirci. Ms.Demirci thanked the City Council for the recondition and such successful partnership with Transtech.
2. Proclamation Declaring the Week of May 21 - May 27, 2023 as National Public Works Week in the City of Commerce
Acting Public Works Director Nila provided the power point. Councilmember and the mayor thanked Public Works department staff for their hard work and making the City parks and streets look great.
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3. Recognize and Honor the Five Branches of the United States Armed Forces
A candle lightning ceremony took place. Councilmember Rebollo took a moment to acknowledge all the members who had lost loved ones in any of the branches of the military. She expressed her gratitude to those individuals for their commitment to defending the country and for their willingness to put their lives on the line.
Vice Mayor Altamirano recognized and appreciated everyone who displayed bravery by serving on the front lines and fighting for the nation including his family members.
Councilmember Garcia extended her heartfelt thanks to those who have made sacrifices and demonstrated courage in service to their country.
Councilmember Lainez expressed gratitude towards the entire community, specifically those who are currently serving or have served in the armed forces.
Mayor Argumedo took a moment to recognize and honor all those who are currently serving their country, acknowledging their dedication and the sacrifices they make on a daily basis.
4. Proclamation of the City Council Designating the Month of May 2023 as Mental Health Awareness Month
Social Services Coordinator Moyra Garcia provided an overview of various programs and initiatives aimed at supporting seniors. She highlighted classes specifically designed to help seniors cope with stress, as well as yoga classes and other activities available at local parks for their well-being.
Councilmember Rebollo emphasized the importance of addressing mental health concerns and acknowledged that mental health crises are increasing in prevalence. She stressed the need for community awareness about available resources and proposed organizing a presentation at the teen center, at the team sports events, to promote mental health and self-care practices.
Councilmember Lainez expressed gratitude for the city's commitment to providing programs and resources that prioritize mental health and contribute to overall well-being.
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Vice Mayor Altamirano took the opportunity to thank local businesses for their assistance in supporting individuals with mental health issues by providing resources and services.
Mayor Argumedo expressed his gratitude and shared a personal experience, mentioning that his older sister had faced mental health challenges, and Enki, a service provider, had been instrumental in her care.
Mayor Argumedo proceeded to read a proclamation proclaiming month of May as Mental Health Month.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Katherine Herman, a resident of Commerce, expressed her concern about receiving a trash hauler bill despite purchasing a home in Commerce. She requested that the addresses in Rosewood Village be included in the trash hauling contract.
Antonia Lupercia voiced her request for the Bandini Library to be opened to the public. Additionally, she mentioned the importance of the YES program and urged for its reinstatement. She also raised questions about the status of sports programs and facilities, emphasizing the need for more sports activities for children and the necessity of a gym. Lupercia criticized the installation of bike lanes on Eastern Avenue.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Mayor Pro Tem Altamirano moved, seconded by Councilmember Rebollo, to approve the Consent Calendar. The motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Mayor Argumedo, Mayor Pro Tem Altamirano, Councilmember Garcia, Councilmember Lainez, and Councilmember Rebollo
5 -
5. Approval of Warrant Register Nos. 18A, 18B, and 18C
6. Approval of Minutes
7. Proclamation Designating the Week of May 14-20, 2023, as National Transportation Week
8. Professional Services Agreement for the Randolph Corridor Active Transportation Project
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9. Agreement with Lead Tech Environmental for Asbestos and Lead-Based Paint Consulting Services in Conjunction with the Home Preservation Grant Program
SCHEDULED MATTERS
10. Presentation/Update from the Sheriff's Department Regarding Public Safety in the City of Commerce
Sergeant Duarte presented an update on the activities that took place within the past two weeks. During this period, the department responded to a kidnapping incident, where the victim was successfully located, and the suspect was apprehended. The invaluable assistance provided by a member of the community through the use of the crime stopper program greatly contributed to resolving the situation.
Furthermore, on April 26th, the department offered support in managing vendor operations in Commerce. On April 27th, deputies provided assistance in conducting a clean-up operation targeting a homeless encampment. Lastly, on May 4, 2023, a structure fire occurred in Commerce.
11. 2023 Hall of Champions Award
Director of Parks and Recreation Alaniz provided a quick overview of the staff report.
Councilmember Garcia moved, seconded by Councilmember Lainez, to approve the 2023 "Hall of Champions" award Sandy Nitta for significant accomplishments in the field of water polo and Ray Amos for outstanding athletic achievements in the field of wresting.. The motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Mayor Argumedo, Mayor Pro Tem Altamirano, Councilmember Garcia, Councilmember Lainez, and Councilmember Rebollo
5 -
12. Eastern Avenue Transit Hub Project and Eastern Bike Lanes Project Update
Acting Public Works Director Gina presented a summary of the staff report.
Councilmember Lainez inquired about the impact of changing the project and selecting option 1 on the project's funding. Director Nila explained that removing bike lanes would need to be assessed since the funding was specifically for the City of Commerce Page 6 Printed on 5/23/2023
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bus hub project. Councilmember Lainez expressed concerns about the safety of bike lanes and suggested adding more green paint between traffic and bike lanes.
Director Nila mentioned that a new pavement management plan would include bike lanes on other streets, and the staff is exploring ways to connect neighborhoods.
Further discussion took place regarding resident complaints about increased traffic congestion at Eastern and whether bike lanes could be implemented in Commerce with heavy traffic and large semi-trucks on City streets. Councilmember Garcia stated that while there was intent, bike lanes did not work due to safety issues and the presence of trucks.
Councilmember Rebollo acknowledged that some residents supported installing bike lanes while others opposed them. Councilmember Rebollo asked for options to improve the safety of existing bike lanes and their associated costs. Director Nila explained that they could explore different options such as green paint or plastic dividers to enhance safety. Councilmember Rebollo also suggested increased traffic enforcement and patrols.
Mayor Argumedo pointed out that while the project was conceptually approved, its impact on the community was not fully considered. Mayor Argumedo recommended reinstating the previously removed lane and placing bike lanes on the right side with sufficient distance from traffic. Mayor Argumedo suggested adopting option 2, which would retain the bus hub while implementing both lanes and additional traffic calming measures. They also recommended more frequent police patrols in the area.
Vice Mayor Altamirano expressed support for safe bike lanes and proposed exploring the acquisition of areas from businesses through easements instead of purchasing properties in order to relocate bike lanes to the curb area. They also suggested creating state-of-the-art bike lanes throughout the community and being willing to allocate funds for this purpose. Vice Mayor Altamirano recommended utilizing some of the city's property by cutting into the sidewalk to create bike lanes.
13. Establishing Art in Public Places Council Subcommittee, and Appointments to Council Subcommittees
Director of Administrative Services and City Clerk Shumway provided a brief overview of the staff report. Vice Mayor Altamirano expressed the desire to revive City of Commerce Page 7 Printed on 5/23/2023
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the beautification committee, focusing on wayfinding and creating facades to enhance the aesthetics of the city. The City had already undertaken the painting of utility boxes as part of this effort, and there was potential for further artistic endeavors in the city. Vice Mayor Altamirano also spoke about the need for Art in Public Places subcommittee, and mentioned artists who had reached out, including the idea of incorporating art into crosswalks. Vice Mayor Altamirano proposed creating an art map pamphlet that would showcase all the art installations in the city, along with the respective artists, and bringing art to various parks.
Mayor Argumedo acknowledged and appreciated the Vice Mayor's passion for art.
The Council engaged in a discussion, recognizing that the final decision regarding the proposals for art installation or certain artists should be made collectively by the entire Council. Councilmember Lainez emphasized the importance of inclusivity, effective communication with the community, and actively seeking out local artists.
Mayor Argumedo suggested that the appointments to the Art in Public Places subcommittee be reviewed annually, along with other appointments to external agencies.
Vice Mayor Altamirano nominated Councilmember Garcia to be a member of the subcommittee.
Councilmember Garcia recommended Vice Mayor Altamirano to serve on the subcommittee. It was unanimously agreed upon by the City Council to approve these appointments.
Other appointments were made to the standing City Council subcommittees as follows:
Beautification Subcommittee: Councilmember Lainez and Mayor Argumedo Economic Development Subcommittee: Vice Mayor Altamirano (re-appointed) and Mayor Argumedo
Sister City Subcommittee: Councilmember Rebollo (re-appointed) and Mayor Argumedo
Councilmember Lainez moved, seconded by Councilmember Rebollo, to adopt a Resolution establishing Art in Public Places Council Subcommittee.
The motion carried by the following vote:
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Ayes: Mayor Argumedo, Mayor Pro Tem Altamirano, Councilmember Garcia, Councilmember Lainez, and Councilmember Rebollo
5 -
14. Meeting Cancellation- May 23, 2023
City Manager Cisneros put forth a recommendation to cancel the scheduled meeting on May 23, 2023, citing the attendance of certain Councilmembers at the ICSC conference. However, it was proposed to keep May 25, 30, and June 6 as potential alternative dates to accommodate the cancelled City Council meeting.
This would ensure that necessary discussions and decision-making processes could still take place within a reasonable timeframe.
Councilmember Rebollo moved, seconded by Councilmember Lainez, to adopt The City Council will consider cancelling regular City Council meeting of May 23, 2023. The motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Mayor Argumedo, Mayor Pro Tem Altamirano, Councilmember Garcia, Councilmember Lainez, and Councilmember Rebollo
5 -
CITY COUNCIL/SUCCESSOR AGENCY REPORTS
Councilmember Garcia expressed gratitude to the Parks and Recreation Department for organizing a remarkable event at the pre-school graduation. She commended the department for their outstanding decorations. Additionally, Councilmember Garcia acknowledged the exceptional achievements of Sandy Nitta and Rat Amos in pioneering the water polo program. She extended her congratulations to both individuals on receiving the prestigious Hall of Champions award.
Councilmember Rebollo congratulated the Commerce Hearts and Aces on the commencement of their seasons in the traveling sports category. She expressed her enthusiastic support for the water polo program and proudly declared her backing for the program. Councilmember Rebollo mentioned that there was a recent tournament in San Diego, and she congratulated the 10U girls' team for securing the third place. She commended all the participants for their excellent representation of the city. She also acknowledged the hard work and dedication of the performing arts and dance teams.
Councilmember Lainez referred to item #7 and expressed gratitude towards the Transportation Department for their diligent efforts. He recognized the department's provision of transportation services and their hard work in applying for grants to sustain the department. Councilmember Lainez announced his appointment by Gateway Cities to the Affordable Housing Trust committee. He assured everyone City of Commerce Page 9 Printed on 5/23/2023
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that he would remain actively involved and report back as needed. He also mentioned attending the pre-school graduation and took the opportunity to wish all mothers a happy Mother's Day.
Vice Mayor Altamirano shared that she had a meeting last week with the Mayor, Parks and Recreation Department, and Public Works staff. Vice Mayor Altamirano informed the audience about potential opportunities regarding the installation of pools in various locations. He mentioned that the City could look into bringing possibly two Olympic-sized pools, 50 and 52 meters, which could be purchased by people and businesses and set up in facilities like Rosewood Park. He emphasized the importance of conducting thorough research to assess the potential benefits for the city.
Mayor Argumedo announced her attendance at the pre-school graduation.
ADJOURNMENT
Meeting adjourned at 10:12 p.m. in memory of Valerio Anthony Poliuto.
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