City of Commerce
Meeting Minutes
Tuesday, April 14, 2026 - 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 Lainez called the Closed Session meeting to order at 5:13 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Mayor Lainez
Mayor Pro Tem Garcia
Councilmember Altamirano
Councilmember Argumedo
Councilmember Rebollo
Present: 5 -
PUBLIC COMMENT ON CLOSED SESSION ITEMS
There were no individuals wishing to address the City Council on any Closed Session items.
RECESS TO CLOSED SESSION
The members of the City Council and Successor Agency recessed to Closed Session at 5:15 p.m.
1. Conference with Legal Counsel Pursuant to Government Code Sections 54956.9(d)(2)& (e)(2) - Regarding Anticipated/Potential Litigation - Three (3) Cases.
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2. Pursuant to Government Code §54957.6 the City Council will confer with its labor negotiator, Ernie Hernandez, 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.
3. Pursuant to Government Code §54956.8, the City Council will confer with its real property negotiator, Ernie Hernandez, with respect to real property negotiations on the purchase of a portion of Tubeway Avenue public right-of-way north of Telegraph Road and south of Smithway Street.
RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION
All members of the City Council and Successor Agency reconvened to open session at 6:19 p.m.
ORAL CLOSED SESSION ANNOUNCEMENT
City Attorney Tapia reported on Closed Session stated that with all members of the Council were present, discussed Item No. 1, for one case the staff provided a presentation, the City Council gave direction, and no final reportable action was taken.
City Attorney Tapia stated that the remainder of the Closed Session items would be discussed after the regular meeting items.
6:00 P.M. - CITY COUNCIL MEETING
CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Lainez called the regular City Council meeting to order at 6:20 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Mayor Lainez
Mayor Pro Tem Garcia
Councilmember Altamirano
Councilmember Argumedo
Councilmember Rebollo
Present: 5 -
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PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
City Attorney Tapia led the Pledge of Allegiance.
INVOCATION
Mayor Pro Tem Garcia offered the invocation.
APPEARANCES AND PRESENTATIONS
Autism Acceptance was taken out of order and before the National Library Week item.
2. Autism Acceptance Month
The City Council recognized Autism Awareness Month, highlighted the importance of inclusion, acceptance, and support for individuals with autism and their families, and reaffirmed the City’s commitment to creating an inclusive community for all.
1. National Library Week
The City Council proclaimed April 20-25 National Library Week.
3. Schurr High School Girls Water Polo Team Recognition The City Council recognized the Schurr High School Girls Water Polo Team for an outstanding 2026 season as Almont League Champions, CIF Southern Section Division 4 Champions, and CIF State SoCal Regional Semifinalists. These achievements reflected the team’s dedication, teamwork, and commitment to excellence, and served as a source of pride and inspiration for the community.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Gloria Nezahualcoyotl, resident of Vista del Rio, requested that the City Council enact a city law to regulate street vendors going door-to-door in residential neighborhoods, particularly those selling services such as solar, roofing, and other home-related products. She expressed concern that community members are often uncertain whether these vendors are operating legally or what their true purpose is within neighborhoods. She noted that other cities have implemented regulations to address similar issues and inquired whether residents may still contact Code Enforcement to respond to and address concerns regarding these vendors.
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CONSENT CALENDAR
Council Member Argumedo moved, seconded by Altamirano to approve Item Nos. 4 through 13. The motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Mayor Lainez, Mayor Pro Tem Garcia, Councilmember Altamirano, Councilmember Argumedo, and Councilmember Rebollo
5 -
4. Approval of Warrant Register Nos. 15A, 15B, and 15C
Action Taken: Approved the bills and claims set forth in Warrant Registers No. 15A dated April 14, 2026, 15B for the period of March 19, 2026 through March 23, 2026, and 15C for the period of March 25, 2026 through April 2, 2026.
5. Approval of Minutes
Action Taken: Approved the minutes of the Regular City Council meeting of Tuesday, March 24, 2026, held at 5:00 p.m
6. An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Commerce, California, Implementing Green Building Practices for City Buildings Action Taken: Adopted Ordinance No. 833, AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COMMERCE, CALIFORNIA, IMPLEMENTING GREEN BUILDING PRACTICES FOR CITY BUILDINGS.
7. Approval of Professional Services Agreement with E.B. Construction, Inc. for the Preparation of Plans, Specifications, and Engineer’s Estimate Camp Commerce Deck Replacement Project
Action Taken:
1. Approved a Professional Services Agreement (PSA) with E.B.
Construction, Inc. for Preparation of Plans, Specifications, and Engineer’s Estimate (PS&E) for Camp Commerce Deck Replacement in the amount of $350,000, and authorized the Mayor to execute the agreement in a form approved by the City Attorney, and furthermore authorized City Manager and Public Works Director to execute any amendments to the agreement with the selected consultant should they become necessary; and
2. Approved up to 15% of the total contract value in contingencies for unforeseen additional design services; and
3. Approved up to 10% of the total contract value for project management services by Transtech Engineering Inc.
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8. Various Signalized Intersections Improvement Project - HSIP Cycle 10 - 07-LA-0-HSIPSL-5362(028) Project Acceptance
Action Taken: Accepted the Various Signalized Intersections Improvement Project - HSIP Cycle 10 as complete, authorized staff to file the Notice of Completion with the County Recorder’s Office, and authorized release of 5% retention per contract provisions.
9. City Hall and Veterans Neighborhood Library Reroofing Project Action Taken: Accepted the City Hall and Veterans Neighborhood Library Reroofing Project as complete, authorized staff to file the Notice of Completion with the County Recorder’s Office, and authorized release of 5% retention per contract provisions.
10. Earth Day 2026 Celebration at Bristow Park - Funding Request Action Taken: Approved the allocation of funds to cover the costs associated with the Earth Day 2026 event at Bristow Park.
11. Approval of Civic Organizations
Action Taken: Approved the Civic Organizations of the City of Commerce for the 2026 calendar year, following the annual review and as recommended by the Parks & Recreation Commission.
12. Bristow Park Parking Lot Lighting System
Action Taken: Received and filed a report on installation of solar lighting fixtures at Bristow Park Parking Lot.
13. Bandini Library and Learning Center Project Acceptance Action Taken:
1. Accepted the Bandini Library and Learning Center Project as complete, authorized staff to file the Notice of Completion with the County Recorder’s Office, and authorized release of 5% retention per contract provisions and the expiration of the Stop Notice filing period, subject to any remaining Stop Notice Claims.
2. Allocated $202,524.42 in Measure AA Funds to cover the total project cost shortfall.
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SCHEDULED MATTERS
14. Presentation/Update from the Sheriff's Department of Public Safety in the City of Commerce
Sergeant Cortez provided a presentation on this item.
15. Approval of Gateway Monument Landscape Maintenance Agreement with Caltrans for Southbound I-5 at Eastern Median Island
Director of Public Works Abbas provided a summary of the presentation.
Council Member Argumedo moved, seconded by Council Member Rebollo to:
Adopt Resolution No. 26-17 approving the Gateway Monument Landscape Maintenance Agreement between the City of Commerce and the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans).
The motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Mayor Lainez, Mayor Pro Tem Garcia, Councilmember Altamirano, Councilmember Argumedo, and Councilmember Rebollo
5 -
16. Rosewood Park Extension Improvement Project
Public Works Director Abbas provided a brief summary of the presentation.
City Manager Hernandez clarified and summarized the project.
Mayor Lainez moved, seconded by Council Member Argumedo to:
1. Authorize staff to prepare and release a Request for Proposals (RFP) for design services for Rosewood Park Extension Improvement Project; and
2. Adopt Resolution No. 26-18 appropriating $300,000.00 from Project Management Fund to support the design phase.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Mayor Lainez, Mayor Pro Tem Garcia, Councilmember Altamirano, Councilmember Argumedo, and Councilmember Rebollo
5 -
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That the City Council consider adopting a Resolution declaring certain real property known as 2143 S. Atlantic Boulevard (APN: 5244-014-905) as Surplus Land in accordance with the Surplus Land Act, authorizing staff to proceed with issuing a notice of availability of the Surplus Land in the City of Commerce, California and authorizing the City Manager, or designee, to take all necessary actions to carry out the intent of this Resolution and ensure compliance with the Surplus Land Act.
18. Resolution approving the City of Commerce’s Economic Opportunity Zones (C.E.O.z) program
City Manager Hernandez provided a brief summary of this item.
Council Member Rebollo moved, seconded by Council Member Argumedo to:
1. Adopt Resolution No. 26-19 to:
o Authorize the City Manager to approve the list of incentives from Commerce’s Economic opportunity Zones (C.E.O.z) based on the merits of their application and the potential impact on the City and its residents. o Authorize the City Manager to communicate the incentive list to interested parties, including but not limited to approved real estate developers, corporations, and tenants.
2. Approve a budget allocation for Deodate Corporation of $50,000.00 for an On-Call Services Agreement approved as to form by the City Attorney
3. Take any additional related action as deemed necessary.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Mayor Lainez, Mayor Pro Tem Garcia, Councilmember Altamirano, Councilmember Argumedo, and Councilmember Rebollo
5 -
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17. Declaration of Certain Real Property known as 2143 S. Atlantic Boulevard (Assessor’s Parcel Number “APN”: 5244-014-905; “Property”) as Surplus Land Item No. 17 was moved to the April 28, 2026 City Council Meeting.
City Council Meeting Minutes April 14, 2026
Council Member Rebollo stated she did not have any reports.
Council Member Argumedo reported attending multiple City and community events, including Parks and Recreation basketball banquets, where he commended staff and coaches for a successful season and noted strong participation and positive feedback from families. He highlighted that the use of Rosewood Park as a banquet venue was well received due to increased space and improved accommodations. He also attended a dance recital at the Commerce Casino, praised the facility, strong attendance, and overall success of the event, and encouraged continued use of the venue for community programming.
Council Member Argumedo attended the State of the County event hosted by Supervisor Janice Hahn and recognized both the quality of the presentation and the efforts of the Commerce Business Council in organizing the event. He emphasized the importance of regional collaboration and acknowledged the Commerce Casino as a valuable community and regional asset. He further reported representing the City at a Gaming Cities Coalition meeting, where updates were provided regarding ongoing State-level gaming policy changes and legal challenges impacting local jurisdictions. He noted the City’s continued engagement in monitoring these developments.
Mayor Pro Tem Garcia reported attending a Teen Club “Sound Check Night,” where she commended staff and participants for a successful event and highlighted the talent, enthusiasm, and positive engagement of youth participants.
She acknowledged staff efforts in community outreach, specifically recognizing ongoing work to connect unhoused individuals with available City resources, and encouraged continued engagement. She also praised the Library Department for securing grant funding, noting upcoming programming focused on gardening and plant-related initiatives, and expressed interest in future publications and programs.
Mayor Pro Tem Garcia extended appreciation to administrative staff for their ongoing support and responsiveness, particularly in handling last-minute requests.
She reminded the community of the upcoming Traveling Vietnam Memorial Wall event scheduled for May 22–26 and encouraged public participation to honor City of Commerce Page 8 Printed on 4/22/2026
CITY COUNCIL/SUCCESSOR AGENCY REPORTS
City Council Meeting Minutes April 14, 2026
Mayor Lainez extended condolences to the Lara family. He reported attending several community events, including the April 4 dance recital, where he commended Parks and Recreation staff, instructors, and participants for a successful and well-attended event. He noted the positive community experience of hosting the event at the Commerce Casino and suggested continued use of the venue for future programming. He also attended the State of the County event hosted by Supervisor Janice Hahn and expressed appreciation to both the Supervisor and the Commerce Business Council for bringing the event to Commerce.
Mayor Lainez highlighted his attendance at the Teen Center “Sound Check” event, praising the youth participants, program growth, and staff leadership, and noted increased interest from additional participants. He further reported participating in a meeting with Congressman Robert Garcia’s office and City staff to showcase City projects and initiatives, with the goal of securing future support and resources.
Mayor Lainez reminded the community of the upcoming Earth Day cleanup event at Bristow Park and encouraged public participation. Lastly, he requested that staff provide a public information update regarding ongoing demolition and future plans at Veterans Park to ensure transparency and keep the community informed. He also indicated his intent to adjourn the meeting in memory of Guillermo Lara at the conclusion of the meeting.
Council Member Rebollo requested that an additional adjournment be included in memory of a former City employee and longtime community member, Ron Reyes, noted his early involvement with the City’s Parks and Recreation programs as a coach and mentor. She described him as a unique individual whose passing is a significant loss to both the community and the organization.
RECESS TO CLOSED SESSION
The members of the City Council and Successor Agency recessed to Closed Session at 7:37 p.m.
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veterans. Lastly, she requested that the meeting be adjourned in memory of Guillermo Lara, community member, sharing personal reflections and extending condolences and support to the family.
City Council Meeting Minutes April 14, 2026
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RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION
All members of the City Council and Successor Agency reconvened to open session at 9:37 p.m.
ORAL CLOSED SESSION ANNOUNCEMENT
City Attorney Tapia reported on Closed Session stated that with all members of the Council present, discussed Item No. 1, for the second case staff provided a presentation, the City Council gave direction, and no final reportable action was taken. The third case was not discussed.
The City Council discussed Items 2A and 2B staff provided a presentation, the City Council gave direction, and no final reportable action was taken.
The City Council discussed Item 3 staff provided a presentation, the City Council gave direction, and no final reportable action was taken.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the City Council, Mayor Lainez adjourned the meeting at 9:38 p.m. in the memory of Guillermo Lara and Ron Reyes.