City Council/Successor Agency Minutes of 7/07/2026 Page 1 of 10 Final Minutes Approved July 21, 2026
MINUTES
CUDAHY CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING and
CITY OF CUDAHY AS SUCCESSOR AGENCY and
HOUSING SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE CUDAHY
DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION JOINT MEETING
July 7, 2026, 6:30 P.M.
1. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor / Chair Gonzalez called the meeting to order at 6:49 p.m.
2. ROLL CALL
Council / Agency Member Alcantar Loza participation remotely via Zoom due to travel while on official business of the legislative body or another state or local agency in accordance with Government Code Section 54953.8.3(c)(4).
PRESENT: Council / Agency Member Alcantar Loza
Council / Agency Member Fuentes
Council / Agency Member Gomez
Vice Mayor / Vice Chair Lomelí
Mayor / Chair Gonzalez
ALSO PRESENT: City Manager, Christopher R. Lopez, City Attorney, Shelley Preisler, Deputy City Attorney, Samuel Holmberg, City Clerk, Richard Iglesias, Community Services Director, Brenda Rodriguez, Finance Director, John Xie, Assistant to the City Manager, Estefania Zamora, Senior Planner, Cecilia Madrigal, Administrative Analyst, Daniela Trujillo, Executive Assistant to the City Manager, Janet Andrade, Housing Specialist II, Lorena Cardenas, Administrative Intern, Esmeralda Perez
3. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Motion: Vice Mayor Lomelí motioned to approve the agenda, seconded by Council Member Gomez. Motion passed 5-0 by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Alcantar Loza, Fuentes, Gomez, Lomelí, and Gonzalez NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
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4. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Council Member Fuentes.
5. LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
The Land Acknowledgment was led by Vice Mayor Lomelí.
We would like to acknowledge that the land we inhabit today was once known as Tovangaar, the home of the Gabrieleño-Tongva people. We show our respects to the Gabrieleño-Tongva people, as well as all Indigenous people, past, present, and future, and honor their labor as original caretakers of this land. We commit to uplifting the Gabrieleño-Tongva people, invite you to acknowledge the history, and join us in caring for this land.
6. PRESENTATIONS
A. Housing Updates
7. PUBLIC COMMENTS
Ricardo Peralta came to make a claim regarding a permit he had requested for his cargo van that was denied. States there is another cargo van parked in the street and questions why his permit request was denied. Informed the City Council that street cleaning did not pass the previous week and parked both his vehicles on the street but received a ticket; currently owing the city 3 in total that have not been paid due to not receiving them. Has the license plate of the cargo van parked overnight and is asking the city to properly investigate what is occurring and contact him with a response.
Paty Osorjo thanked the City for the improvements on Patata, Salt Lake, and Atlantic streets, noting that the new signage and improved lighting have reduced the presence of unhoused individuals. Stated contacting the City of South Gate to clarify jurisdiction over the railway lines, where unhoused individuals continue to gather. Requested speed bumps on Cecilia Street and Atlantic Avenue heading towards Patata and Salt Lake due to speeding concerns, particularly at night, and noted that residents living in RVs and trailers fear their homes could be damaged. Shared suggestions with City staff regarding additional street improvements. Raised concerns about other individuals filling the trash bins, leaving insufficient space for residents who pay $60 for the service. Additionally, noted personally creating a permit for unauthorized vehicles, and requesting signage for overnight parking that would be available after July 15. Requested that overnight parking be extended to 24 hours, explaining that a nearby car business occupies much of the street parking with its vehicles, limiting parking availability for residents.
City Council/Successor Agency Minutes of 7/07/2026 Page 3 of 10 Lorenzo Uribe expressed concern about not seeing progress regarding complaints towards Republic Services. Stated being charged $100 for an overfilled bin and questioned the evidence provided by the company, noting the photos shown were from other streets. Voiced concern that other residents may also be experiencing similar issues without speaking up. Additionally, stated that, for the past five years, paying twice for trash services—through annual taxes and monthly Republic Services fees—and asked how to recover improperly charged funds and how those where those funds are located.
Mentioned that despite securing bins with chains to prevent them from being left open, was still charged a $50 fee for an open yard bin. Requested that the City provide greater oversight of Republic Services to prevent unfair practices and expressed hope to see results.
David Rodriguez worked the fireworks stand with the Cudahy Youth Foundation for the Fourth of July as overnight security. Pointed out that on Thursday, staff sold over $4000 in fireworks following procedures such as having business licenses, a seller's permit, fire inspection, and code enforcement. Collected approximately $420 in sales tax for the city, rounded down from $4000. Expresses no action being taken towards food vendors operating illegally without licenses, health inspections, code enforcement, and fire inspection, which have possibly generated zero sales taxes for the city of Cudahy.
Mentions concerns of food stands creating traffic and blocking sidewalks. Around Santa Ana and Salt Lake Avenue, there is a food vendor that sets up at Leal Auto Body, blocking the right turn lane and the bus stop, collecting nothing for the city.
Mario Dominguez Jr. expressed concern regarding a Planning Commission item in the City of South Gate involving an AT&T cellular tower located within a city park. Stated that the item indicated the tower had been installed on August 9, 2005, and expressed opposition to placing telecommunications infrastructure in public parks. Urged the City of Cudahy to preserve parks as green spaces and instead consider locating such infrastructure along streets, corridors, or other suitable parcels. Further suggested that, if the City enters into agreements with telecommunications companies, it require annual contributions to a park enhancement fund to support park maintenance, repairs, upgrades, and amenities.
8. CITY COUNCIL COMMENTS / REQUESTS FOR AGENDA ITEMS
Council Member Fuentes congratulated staff and residents on the success of the City's Fourth of July event, noting that while space was limited this year, he hopes the full park will be available for next year's celebration. Requested a future agenda item to discuss and vote on the maintenance and availability of Cudahy Park's baseball fields during the park renovation, stating receiving concerns from a resident and active softball player regarding the park's longstanding use for baseball.
City Council/Successor Agency Minutes of 7/07/2026 Page 4 of 10 Council Member Gomez thanked staff and Vice Mayor Lomelí for the assistance in organizing the recent air purifier distribution event. Expressed interest in working with the Assemblywoman's office to obtain additional air purifiers for residents.
Vice Mayor Lomelí thanked Council Member Gomez, staff, and the Mayor for their collaboration and support of the air purifier distribution event, noting that residents were appreciative and emphasizing the importance of preparing the community for health emergencies. Highlighted the City's ongoing efforts related to rent stabilization and tenant protection, stating the community is entering its third year of the program. Encouraged residents to stay safe during air quality conditions and announced a community film screening on July 20 focused on safety, thanking staff for their efforts in organizing the event.
Mayor Gonzalez thanked the volunteers who participated in the food distribution event, recognizing Susie de Santiago, along with moms who are members of Los Angeles Siempre Unidos, and the many volunteers who support local families. Acknowledged the passing of longtime community volunteer Petra and recognized her dedication to the community. Shared attendance at the Scholar Match event in the City of Cudahy, where students and their families received college counseling services. Commended staff for organizing the Fourth of July celebration, noting it was well organized with assigned seating, and mentioning the educators' rock band that performed would like to be considered back for next year's event.
9. CITY MANAGER REPORT (information only)
10. REPORTS REGARDING AD HOC, ADVISORY, STANDING OR OTHER
COMMITTEE MEETINGS - NONE
11. WAIVER OF FULL READING OF RESOLUTIONS AND ORDINANCES Motion: Council Member Gomez motioned to waive full reading of resolutions and ordinances, seconded by Vice Mayor Lomelí. Motion passed 5-0 by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Alcantar Loza, Fuentes, Gomez, Lomelí, and Gonzalez NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
City Council/Successor Agency Minutes of 7/07/2026 Page 5 of 10
12. CONSENT CALENDAR
A. Consideration to Review and Approve the Draft Minutes of June 16, 2026, for the Regular Meeting of the City Council and the Joint Meeting of the City of Cudahy as Successor Agency and Housing Successor Agency to the Cudahy Development Commission
Recommendation: The City Council is requested to review and approve the City Council / Successor Agency Draft Minutes for June 16, 2026.
B. Adoption of Ordinance No. 769 Adding Chapter 9.15 “Law Enforcement Services Transparency and Constitutional Compliance” to Title 9 of the City’s Municipal Code and Amending Chapter 1.25 “Procedures Concerning Sensitive Information and Prohibition of the Use of City Resources for Federal Immigration Enforcement” of Title 1 of the City’s Municipal Code
Recommendation: The City Council is requested to waive the full reading and adopt Ordinance No. 769 by title only, adding Chapter 9.15 “Law Enforcement Services Transparency and Constitutional Compliance” to Title 9 of the City’s Municipal Code and amending Chapter 1.25 “Procedures Concerning Sensitive Information and Prohibition of the Use of City Resources for Federal Immigration Enforcement” of Title 1 of the City’s Municipal Code.
Motion: Vice Mayor Lomelí motioned to approve Consent Calendar items A-B, seconded by Council Member Gomez. Motion passed 5-0 by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Alcantar Loza, Fuentes, Gomez, Lomelí, and Gonzalez NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
13. PUBLIC HEARING
A. A Public Hearing to Consider and Approve a Resolution of the City of Cudahy Adopting and Approving the Filing of the Report of Rubbish Collection Charges for Fiscal Year 2026-2027 in accordance with the Solid Waste Rate Adjustments Pursuant to the Franchise Agreement with “Republic Services” (formerly Consolidated Disposal Services) and Approving the Placement on the Property Tax Roll
Presented by the Assistant to the City Manager
Recommendation: The City Council is requested to take the following action(s):
1. Open the public hearing, receive testimony and presentation of the proposed adjustments; and
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2. Adopt proposed Resolution No. 26-28 adopting and approving the filing of the Report of Rubbish Collection Charges for Fiscal Year 2026/2027 in accordance with the Solid Waste Rate Adjustments Pursuant to the Franchise Agreement with “Republic Services” (formerly Consolidated Disposal Services) and Approving the Placement on the Property Tax Roll.
At 7:35 p.m. Mayor Gonzalez opened public comments.
-No CommentsAt 7:39 p.m. Mayor Gonzalez closed public comments.
Motion: Council Member Fuentes motioned to adopt Resolution No. 26-28, seconded by Vice Mayor Lomelí. Motion passed 5-0 by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Alcantar Loza, Fuentes, Gomez, Lomelí, and Gonzalez NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
14. BUSINESS SESSION
A. Adoption of Resolution No. 26-29 Removing the Commitment of Fund Balance Pursuant to GASB 54
Presented by the Finance Director
Recommendation: The City Council is requested to adopt Resolution No. 26-29, removing the commitment of $900,000 in General Fund balance previously committed for Strategic Plan Program Implementation pursuant to GASB 54.
Motion: Council Member Fuentes motioned to adopt Resolution No. 26-29, seconded by Vice Mayor Lomelí. Motion passed 5-0 by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Alcantar Loza, Fuentes, Gomez, Lomelí, and Gonzalez NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
B. Approve the Installation of a Backflow Prevention Devise at Lugo Park Facility Located at 4213 Elizabeth St. and Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Purchase Order with Kustom Plumbing
Presented by the Administrative Analyst
City Council/Successor Agency Minutes of 7/07/2026 Page 7 of 10 Recommendation: The City Council is requested to approve the installation of a backflow prevention device at the Lugo Park Facility located at 4213 Elizabeth St. and authorize the City Manager to execute a purchase order with Kustom Plumbing in the amount of $35,985.00.
Motion: Council Member Fuentes motioned to approve the installation of a backflow prevention device at the Lugo Park Facility and authorize the City Manager to execute a purchase order with Kustom Plumbing in the amount of $35,985, seconded by Vice Mayor Lomelí. Motion passed 5-0 by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Alcantar Loza, Fuentes, Gomez, Lomelí, and Gonzalez NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
C. Discussion and direction on establishing a policy to subsidize eligible recreation program and service fees for City of Cudahy
Presented by the Community Services Director
Recommendation: The City Council is recommended to discuss and provide direction on establishing a policy to subsidize eligible recreation program and service fees for City of Cudahy. The City Council may consider the following items to help guide the discussion:
• Receive staff and consultant presentation summarizing the proposed comprehensive service and user fees. The City of Cudahy has historically provided recreation programs and services at rates that do not fully recover the cost of service. Recreation fees have not been comprehensively updated in more than ten years. • Recreation programs and services provide significant community benefits, including youth development, health and wellness opportunities, social engagement, and access to safe recreational activities.
• As part of the City's recent User Fee Study, staff evaluated the actual cost of providing recreation programs and services and compared City fees to those charged by neighboring agencies.
• The User Fee Study identified that the City currently recovers only a portion of the costs associated with providing recreation programs and services, with the remaining costs subsidized through General Fund resources.
• During discussions regarding user fees, the City Council expressed a desire to maintain affordability for residents while establishing a clear and transparent policy regarding fee subsidies.
-Direction Given, No Action Taken-
City Council/Successor Agency Minutes of 7/07/2026 Page 8 of 10 D. Discussion and Direction Regarding Placing Cudahy’s Existing Rent Stabilization Ordinance (Ordinance No. 736) Before the Voters at the November 2026 General Election
Presented by the City Attorney
Recommendation: The City Council of Cudahy (“City Council”) is requested to:
1. Discuss and provide direction regarding whether staff should prepare materials to place Cudahy’s existing Rent Stabilization Ordinance (“Ordinance”) on the November 3, 2026 general election ballot;
2. Provide direction regarding potential ballot measure language; and
3. Take or provide direction to staff regarding additional, related actions that may be desirable.
-Direction Given, No Action TakenE. Consider An Ordinance And Resolution Of The City Council Of The City Of Cudahy, California (1) Giving Notice Of The Submission Of A Ballot Measure Question To The Voters Of The City Of Cudahy Concerning The Extension Of The Temporary ThreeQuarter Percent (3/4%) Transactions And Use Tax Currently Implemented As A General Use Tax Beyond Its Current Expiration Date, To Continue Until Repealed By City Voters; And (2) Setting Election Procedures And Priorities For The Filing Of Written Arguments And Rebuttals Regarding The Measure And Directing The City Attorney To Prepare An Impartial Analysis; And (3) Requesting The Los Angeles County Board Of Supervisors’ Consent To The Consolidation Of Said Election With Other Elections To Be Held On November 3, 2026, And Directing The Registrar Of Voters To Conduct The Election Presented by the Deputy City Attorney
Recommendation: The Cudahy City Council (“City Council”) is requested to:
1. Subject to adoption by the electorate, introduce and waive full reading of Ordinance No. 770 of the City of Cudahy, California (“City”) extending the City’s three-quarter percent (3/4%) transactions and use tax indefinitely until repealed by the voters as codified under Chapter 3.25 (CUDAHY TEMPORARY TRANSACTIONS AND USE TAX) of Title 3 (REVENUE AND FINANCE) of the Cudahy Municipal Code (“CMC”); and
2. Adopt Resolution No. 26-30 (1) giving notice of the submission of a ballot measure question to the voters of the City of Cudahy concerning the extension of the threequarter percent (3/4%) transactions and use tax currently implemented as a general use tax beyond its current expiration date, to continue until repealed by city voters; and (2) setting election procedures and priorities for the filing of written arguments and rebuttals regarding the measure and directing the City Attorney to prepare an impartial City Council/Successor Agency Minutes of 7/07/2026 Page 9 of 10 analysis; and (3) requesting the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors’ consent to the consolidation of said election with other elections to be held on November 3, 2026, and directing the Registrar of Voters to conduct the election; and
3. Discuss and take action regarding the preparation of ballot arguments; and
4. Take such additional, related, action that may be desirable.
Motion: Council Member Fuentes motioned to for staff to return with materials revised to reflect the changes, seconded by Council Member Alcantar Loza. Motion passed 5-0 by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Alcantar Loza, Fuentes, Gomez, Lomelí, and Gonzalez NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
15. COUNCIL DISCUSSION – NONE
At 9:44 p.m. City Attorney, Shelley recessed to closed session.
16. CLOSED SESSION
A. Closed Session Pursuant to Government Code Section 54957.6(a) – Conference with Labor Negotiator Regarding Represented Employees
City’s Designated Representative(s) for Negotiations: City Manager Christopher R.
Lopez
Employee Organization: Cudahy Miscellaneous Employees Association (CMEA) B. Closed Session Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(4) – Conference with Legal Counsel - Anticipated Litigation – Initiation of Litigation - One Matter At 10:52 p.m., Mayor Gonzalez reconvened to open session.
17. CLOSED SESSION ANNOUNCEMENT
City Attorney Shelley Preisler announced that the City Council went into closed session for two items 1) Pursuant to Government Code Section54957.6(a) – Conference with Labor Negotiator Regarding Represented Employees 2) Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(4) – Conference with Legal Counsel - Anticipated Litigation – Initiation of Litigation - One Matter, all five council members where present for the item including Council Member Alcantar Loza attending remotely, direction given, no further reportable action.
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18. ADJOURNMENT
The City Council / Agency meeting adjourned at 10:53 p.m.
Cynthia Gonzalez
Mayor
ATTEST:
Richard Iglesias
City Clerk