City of Commerce
Meeting Minutes
Tuesday, May 26, 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 regular City Council meeting to order at 5:15 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 5:18 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.
2. Pursuant to Government Code §54956.8, the City Council will confer with its real property negotiator, Ernie Hernandez, with respect to real estate negotiations regarding 7025 Slauson Ave., Commerce, CA 90040 (APN:
6356-004-025).
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3. Pursuant to Government Code §54956.8, the City Council will confer with its real property negotiator, Ernie Hernandez, with respect to real estate negotiations regarding 6300 Telegraph Road, Commerce, CA 90040 (APN:
6336-008-033)
4. 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 Transportation Department Employees Association on behalf of the transportation employees.
B. The Memoranda of Understanding between the City and the City of Commerce management employees.
Appointment pursuant to Government Code 54957
(b) Employee Title: City Clerk
RECONVENE TO OPEN SESSION
All members of the City Council and Successor Agency reconvened to open session at 6:24 p.m.
ORAL CLOSED SESSION ANNOUNCEMENT
City Attorney Tapia reported on Closed Session stated that all members of the Council were present, for item 1 they discussed only one case and for items 2 through 5, staff provided presentations, the City Council gave directions, and no final reportable actions were taken.
6:00 P.M. - CITY COUNCIL MEETING
CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Lainez called the regular City Council meeting to order at 6:25 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Mayor Lainez
Mayor Pro Tem Garcia
Councilmember Altamirano
Councilmember Argumedo
Councilmember Rebollo
Present: 5 -
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5. City Council Conference Regarding Public Employee Recruitment/Employment/ City Council Meeting Minutes May 26, 2026
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Library Director Bautista led the Pledge of Allegiance.
INVOCATION
Council Member Rebollo offered the invocation.
APPEARANCES AND PRESENTATIONS
1. Honoring the Fallen: America’s Freedom Tribute & Traveling Vietnam Wall Memorial Day Weekend Event
Senior Management Analyst Natalie Hernandez thanked the City Council, City staff, volunteers, veterans, and community members for supporting the Memorial Day weekend Vietnam Traveling Wall event hosted in the City of Commerce. She stated the event was a citywide effort involving Public Safety, Public Works, Parks and Recreation, Graphics, and additional City staff and volunteers. Analyst Hernandez noted the event included the escort caravan, wall assembly, memorial ceremonies, and opportunities for veterans and families to share their stories and reflect on their experiences.
A commemorative recap video was shown highlighting the Memorial Day weekend event, veterans, family members, and community participation was presented.
Mayor Lainez thanked Natalie Hernandez, Rebecca Longoria, Public Safety personnel, Public Works staff, and all departments involved in coordinating the event. Mayor Lainez acknowledged the Mena family and recognized Commerce residents Corporal Mark Anthony Vasquez of the United States Marine Corps and Specialist Joseph Angel Mena of the United States Army, whose names are inscribed on the Vietnam Memorial Wall.
Mayor Lainez then read a formal commendation honoring America’s Freedom Tribute and the Traveling Vietnam Wall for preserving the memory and sacrifices of United States veterans and service members. Mayor Lainez recognized Lonnie Reavis for transporting the Vietnam Traveling Wall from Texas to Commerce and presented him with a framed commendation on behalf of the City Council.
Mr. Reavis thanked the City of Commerce for hosting the event and honoring veterans and military families.
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2. The BIG 4 Summit Recap Video
City Manager Ernie Hernandez introduced a recap video regarding the Big Four regional economic development coalition involving the cities of Commerce, Vernon, Santa Fe Springs, and Industry. He stated the coalition was created to encourage economic development, attract businesses, create jobs, and increase revenue opportunities throughout the region.
The video highlighted economic opportunity initiatives, business incentive programs, pre-development services, commercial revitalization efforts, and collaboration among the participating industrial cities. Speakers discussed streamlining permitting processes, improving communication with businesses, offering incentives, reducing barriers to development, and increasing commercial and industrial investment opportunities throughout the region.
Mayor Lainez stated the coalition was intended to strengthen advocacy efforts at the State and Federal levels while also encouraging economic development, reducing blight, increasing tenancy, attracting commercial investment, and creating additional recreational and retail opportunities within the City of Commerce. He thanked City Manager Hernandez, Community Development Director Jessica Serrano, and Senior Management Analyst Gissellel Delgado for participating in the summit.
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3. National Public Works Week Video
Public Works Supervisor Anthony Delgado presented remarks recognizing National Public Works Week and the theme Rooted in Service, Powered by Community. He highlighted the responsibilities of the Public Works Department, including maintenance of more than 210 miles of streets, traffic signals, signage, parks, public facilities, flood response, graffiti removal, environmental compliance, engineering services, and infrastructure maintenance throughout the City.
Supervisor Delgado recognized Public Works personnel including streets crews, tree maintenance teams, graffiti paint crews, park maintenance staff, engineering personnel, building maintenance employees, custodial teams, environmental services staff, and administrative personnel for their service to the community. He additionally thanked Public Works Director Shahid Abbas for his leadership and support of department operations.
A National Public Works Week video presentation was shown highlighting Public Works operations, infrastructure maintenance, graffiti abatement, parks maintenance, engineering projects, and community services provided throughout Commerce.
Mayor Lainez commended the Public Works Department for its role in maintaining City infrastructure, road safety, parks, public facilities, graffiti removal, tree maintenance, and engineering operations. He thanked department personnel for their service and stated Public Works employees are critical to maintaining the quality of life within the City of Commerce.
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PUBLIC COMMENT
Leslie Navarro of Helpline Youth Counseling addressed the City Council on behalf of the Southeast Community Alliance regarding efforts to reduce alcohol misuse and underage drinking. She discussed the coalition’s Responsible Alcohol Delivery Project established during the COVID-19 pandemic in response to increased alcohol deliveries to minors and concerns regarding third-party alcohol delivery services. Ms. Navarro stated the coalition works with liquor stores to promote ID verification signage and educational materials intended to prevent underage alcohol access. She reported that five stores in Commerce had been contacted and encouraged the City Council to support educational outreach and prevention efforts intended to reduce impaired driving and alcohol-related incidents involving minors.
Mayor Lainez requested City staff obtain Ms. Navarro’s contact information to explore ways the City could support the coalition’s efforts.
Victor Martinez, long-time Commerce resident, addressed the City Council regarding public safety concerns within the community. He stated residents no longer felt as safe as they once did and expressed concerns regarding homelessness, transient activity, drug use, and public safety conditions near Bandini Park and throughout the City. Mr. Martinez urged the City Council to better utilize the City’s Public Safety resources and stated improved public safety conditions were necessary to attract new investment and economic development opportunities to Commerce. He encouraged the City to proactively address the concerns before a more serious incident occurred.
Leonard Mendoza addressed the City Council regarding City term limits and upcoming municipal elections. He stated residents had expressed concerns regarding the possibility of Council Member Altamirano seeking reelection despite existing term limit provisions approved by Commerce voters in 2011. Mr. Mendoza additionally criticized prior City Council decisions involving transportation services, public safety expenditures, cannabis industry approvals, and parking lot lease revenues. Mr. Mendoza further alleged City residents had lost significant revenue opportunities due to previous Council actions and urged Council Member Altamirano not to seek another term in office.
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CONSENT CALENDAR
Mayor Lainez removed Item No. 8 from the Consent Calendar for separate discussion.
Council Member Rebollo moved, seconded by Council Member Argumedo to approve Item Nos. 4 through 7, 9 and 10. 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. 18A, 18B, and 18C
Action Taken: Approved the bills and claims set forth in Warrant Registers No. 18A dated May 26, 2026, 18B for the period of May 7, 2026 through May 11, 2026, and 16C for the period of May 13, 2026 through May 19, 2026.
5. Approval of Minutes
Action Taken: Approved the minutes of the Regular City Council meeting of Tuesday, May 12, 2026, held at 6:00
p.m.
6. Adoption of Resolution Updating the Conflict of Interest Code to Reflect Current Organizational Structure and Authorized Positions Action Taken:
1. Adopted Resolution No. 26-28 approving an amended Conflict of Interest Code reflecting the City’s current organizational structure and authorized positions.
2. Authorized the City Manager to sign the amended 2026 Local Agency Biennial Notice.
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7. A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Commerce, California, Approving the Agreement with U.S Bank for the Voyager Fuel Card Program utilizing the State of California Sourcewell Cooperative Purchasing Contract Number 030625-USB
Action Taken: Adopted Resolution No. 26-29 to:
1. Approve the Agreement with U.S. Bank based on a competitively awarded Sourcewell Cooperative Contract # 030625-USB for fleet fuel credit card purchases as needed in the maximum amount of $1,050,000 for the contract term, May 26, 2026, through June 27, 2029.
2. Approve the option to renew the Sourcewell U.S. Bank contract for additional one-year terms that align with the term of the Sourcewell Cooperative Contract #030625-USB, in the maximum amount of $350,000 annually.
3. Authorize the Mayor, or designee, to sign all required documents.
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8. Award of Design-Build Contract to Energy Smart Group for the City Hall Electric Vehicle Charging Station Installation Project
Mayor Lainez removed Item No. 8 from the Consent Calendar for separate discussion.
Mayor Lainez moved, seconded by Council Member Argumedo to:
Adopt Resolution No. 26-30:
1. Waiving the formal competitive bidding process and awarding a design-build contract to Energy Smart Group (ESG) for the total Construction Cost of $261,026; and
2. Authorizing the Mayor to execute the contract with Energy Smart Group in a form approved by City Attorney and furthermore authorize City Manager and Public Works Director to execute any amendments to the agreement with ESG; and
3. Authorizing up to 15% ($39,154) of the construction cost in contingencies for unforeseen conditions; and
4. Authorizing up to 10% ($30,018) of the total construction and contingencies costs for Construction Management, and Inspection; and
5. Authorizing to proceed with Construction Management and Inspection Service, pursuant to the existing on-call consultant services.
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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9. Award of Construction Contract to Calpromax Engineering, Inc. for the Washington Boulevard at Telegraph Road Right-Turn Lane Street Widening Project
Action Taken: Adopted Resolution No. 26-31:
1. Approving Plans and Specifications for the Washington Boulevard at Telegraph Road Right-Turn Lane Street Widening Project ("Project"); and
2. Awarding a construction contract to Calpromax Engineering, Inc., the lowest responsive and responsible bidder, in the amount of $236,982 for the total Base Bid Schedule amount, and
3. Authorizing up to 20% of the construction contract for construction contingency for unforeseen conditions; and
4. Authorizing up to 15% of the total construction contract and contingencies for Construction Management and Inspection Services, and material testing; and
5. Authorizing Construction Management and Inspection Services pursuant to City's On-Call professional consulting services agreements.
10. Mixmaster Street Widening Project (Phase 2) Acceptance Action Taken:Adopted Resolution No. 26-32 accepting the Mixmaster Street Widening Project (Phase 2) as complete, authorizing staff to file the Notice of Completion with the County Recorder’s Office, and authorizing the release of 5% retention per contract provisions.
SCHEDULED MATTERS
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11. Presentation/Update from the Sheriff's Department of Public Safety in the City of Commerce
Sergeant Cortez provided a presentation regarding arrest dispositions and public safety trends within the City of Commerce. He explained that while reported crime had significantly decreased in the City, arrest activity had also declined correspondingly.
Sergeant Cortez outlined several ways community members could assist law enforcement in improving case outcomes. He encouraged residents to fully participate in interviews with responding deputies, provide accurate contact information, retain report numbers for follow-up purposes, and cooperate with investigators throughout the investigative process. He additionally stressed the importance of responding to court subpoenas and participating in court proceedings when required. Sergeant Cortez spoke on the public safety information card developed in coordination with City staff that provides residents with step-by-step instructions regarding non-emergency service requests, investigative follow-up procedures, and communication with Sheriff's dispatch personnel.
Mayor Lainez inquired about the reduction in District Attorney case rejections and whether the decrease was attributable to changes within the District Attorney’s Office or improved case preparation by Sheriff's personnel. Sergeant Cortez explained that the improvement was primarily the result of stronger investigations, better documentation, and greater participation from victims and witnesses, resulting in more complete case packages being submitted for prosecution.
Council Member Rebollo requested information regarding enforcement plans for the upcoming Fourth of July holiday season and expressed concerns regarding illegal fireworks activity throughout the City. She emphasized the importance of proactive enforcement, implementation of the City’s strengthened fireworks ordinance, and issuance of citations where appropriate. Council Member Rebollo requested additional discussions regarding operational planning prior to the holiday period.
Mayor Lainez thanked Sergeant Cortez and Sheriff's personnel for their continued presence throughout the community and for supporting the Vietnam Traveling Wall Memorial event. He additionally requested increased attention to alleyways located behind Washington Boulevard and Atlantic Boulevard and encouraged City of Commerce Page 11 Printed on 6/4/2026
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staff to preserve and centralize public safety information developed through the Neighborhood Watch and public safety programs for future community use.
12. Adoption of Resolution Approving the Establishment of a Temporary Commercial Refuse and Recycling Hauler Ad Hoc Committee and Appointment of Two (2) City Council Member
City Manager Hernandez presented a report recommending the establishment of a temporary Commercial Refuse and Recycling Hauler Ad Hoc Committee. He reviewed the history of the City’s semi-exclusive commercial refuse and recycling agreements originally approved in 2018 and subsequently amended in 2023 and 2025. City Manager Hernandez explained that the purpose of the committee would be to evaluate the City’s commercial and residential waste hauling programs, review franchise fee structures, assess operational efficiencies and reporting requirements, and provide recommendations regarding future service models and agreements beyond the current contract extension period.
Mayor Lainez expressed support for increased City Council oversight of the waste hauling program and volunteered to serve on the committee. Councilmember Altamirano also expressed interest in serving on the committee. No other nominations were made.
Mayor Lainez moved, seconded by Council Member Rebollo to:
1. Adopt Resolution No. 26-33 approving the Establishment of a Temporary Commercial Refuse and Recycling Hauler Ad Hoc Committee; and
2. Appoint Mayor Lainez and Council Member Altamirano to serve on the Committee.
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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13. Authorization to Release RFP for the Beautification of BNSF/UPRR Bridges Public Works Director Shahid Abbas presented a report requesting authorization to release a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the beautification of two railroad bridges within the City of Commerce. Director Abbas identified the bridges as the BNSF Railway bridge located on Atlantic Boulevard north of Bandini Boulevard, commonly known as the “Bridge to the Future,” and the Union Pacific Railroad bridge located on Garfield Avenue south of Ferguson Drive. He explained that both structures serve as gateway corridors into the City and would benefit from aesthetic improvements and maintenance. Director Abbas reported that staff had coordinated extensively with both railroad companies and had received conditional approvals for painting and limited artistic enhancements. He noted that both railroad agencies preferred lighter color palettes, allowed incorporation of the City logo, and prohibited darker colors due to structural inspection requirements.
Director Abbas further explained that the project would proceed in three phases consisting of bridge painting, development of artwork concepts, and installation of approved artwork. Funding for the project had been included within the proposed Fiscal Year 2026-2028 Capital Improvement Program budget.
Mayor Lainez expressed enthusiasm regarding the project and thanked Public Works staff for their efforts in coordinating with the railroad companies. He inquired about the anticipated timeline for the project and qualifications that would be required of artists responding to the RFP. Director Abbas explained that the RFP would likely be issued within the coming weeks and remain open approximately six weeks, with staff returning to the City Council during the summer months with recommended concepts and proposals. Staff further clarified that artists would be evaluated based upon relevant experience and prior work rather than specific certifications.
Mayor Lainez emphasized the importance of maintaining an open and competitive process and encouraged staff to solicit a broad range of artistic concepts and proposals.
Following the vote, City Manager Hernandez clarified that the Atlantic Boulevard Bridge to the Future project was currently on a faster implementation schedule than the Garfield Avenue bridge and would likely proceed first.
Council Member Argumendo moved, seconded by Mayor Lainez to:
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Beautification of BNSF/UPRR Bridges.
The motion carried by the following vote:
Ayes: Mayor Lainez, Mayor Pro Tem Garcia, Councilmember Altamirano, Councilmember Argumedo, and Councilmember Rebollo
5 -
14. Arts in Public Places Program: Rosewood Park
Mayor Lainez continued this item to the next regular City Council meeting.
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CITY COUNCIL/SUCCESSOR AGENCY REPORTS
Council Member Altamirano expressed appreciation to City employee Shawn for initiating discussions regarding public art enhancements near City Hall following recent landscaping improvements. He stated that he looked forward to future discussions concerning public art opportunities and potential beautification concepts. He also thanked City Manager Hernandez for scheduling meetings during the ICSC Conference and for his leadership in coordinating regional economic development efforts through the Big Four initiative and expressed appreciation to Council Member Rebollo for selecting him to carry the City of Commerce flag during the Contract Cities Association conference.
Council Rebollo reported attending the Contract Cities Association Annual Municipal conference, where she participated in educational sessions focused on artificial intelligence, public safety, and regional issues. She announced that she had been appointed Treasurer of the Contract Cities Association Executive Board and expressed pride in representing the City of Commerce in that leadership role.
Council Member Rebollo further praised the successful execution of the Vietnam Traveling Wall Memorial event and thanked Natalie Hernandez, City staff, Public Works personnel, Parks and Recreation staff, volunteers, veterans, and community members who contributed to the event. She described the experience as emotional and meaningful and emphasized the importance of honoring veterans and preserving their legacy within the community.
Councilmember Argumedo reported attending the Contract Cities Association conference and meeting with numerous elected officials and vendors regarding innovative infrastructure and public facility solutions. He noted that he obtained information related to permanent and temporary shade structures that may be useful for future City projects, including improvements being considered at Bristow Park.
Council Member Argumedo additionally reported attending meetings associated with California Cities for Self-Reliance and the I-5 Joint Powers Authority. He discussed recent updates regarding litigation matters, freeway improvement projects, property disposition activities, and regional transportation planning efforts. He also praised the Vietnam Traveling Wall event and thanked all City departments and volunteers who contributed to its success. He noted that residents continued visiting the memorial throughout the weekend and described the event City of Commerce Page 15 Printed on 6/4/2026
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as a meaningful experience for the community.
Mayor Pro Tem Garcia reported attending the Contract Cities Association conference and participating in networking and educational opportunities with regional municipal leaders. She additionally expressed gratitude to Natalie Hernandez, City staff, volunteers, and the City Council for supporting and implementing the Vietnam Traveling Wall Memorial event. Mayor Pro Tem Garcia described the event as the fulfillment of a long-held vision and recounted her emotional experience participating in the escort caravan, opening ceremonies, and interactions with veterans and their families throughout the weekend.
Mayor Lainez reported attending the Contract Cities Association Annual Municipal conference and highlighted sessions regarding general plan updates, water infrastructure, affordability, emergency communications, homelessness programs, and economic development. He noted that many of the topics discussed would be valuable as the City continues evaluating future policy initiatives and community investments.
Mayor Lainez also reported attending the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) conference alongside City staff. He provided updates regarding several economic development projects, including the planned Nike store expansion at the Citadel Outlets, progress on the PanAm Hotel project, ongoing discussions regarding future retail opportunities, a potential Dutch Bros Coffee location, and construction progress associated with the new In-N-Out Burger development. The Mayor further discussed meetings held through the Big Four regional partnership and noted positive interest from developers, retailers, restaurants, and hospitality companies regarding investment opportunities within Commerce.
Mayor Lainez additionally recognized the Teen Center and Unplugged Seniors group for their Director Showcase performance and commended staff and participants for their creativity and dedication. He concluded his remarks by reflecting on the significance of the Vietnam Traveling Wall Memorial and emphasized the importance of educating future generations regarding the sacrifices made by military veterans.
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ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the City Council, Mayor Lainez adjourned the meeting at 7:54 p.m. in memory of Commerce residents Corporal Mark Anthony Vasquez, United States Marine Corps, and Specialist Joseph Angel Mena, United States Army, whose names are memorialized on the Vietnam Traveling Wall.
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