MINUTES OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
REGULAR MEETING
JANUARY 9, 2024
The City Council of the City of Downey held a Regular City Council Meeting — Closed Session on January 9, 2024, at 5:32 p.m., in the Council Chambers of the Downey City Hall, 11111 Brookshire Avenue, Downey, California, Mayor Trujillo presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members:
Mario Trujillo
Hector Sosa
Claudia M. Frometa
Horacio Ortiz
Dorothy Pemberton
Mayor
Mayor Pro Tern
Council Member
Council Member
Council Member
ALSO PRESENT: Roger Bradley, City Manager
Vaniah De Rojas, Assistant City Manager
John Funk, City Attorney
James McQueen, Human Resources Director
PUBLIC COMMENT ON CLOSED SESSION AGENDA ITEMS
Mayor Trujillo asked City Clerk Duarte if any written public comments were received regarding Closed Session items. City Clerk Duarte confirmed no written public comments were received. Mayor Trujillo asked if there was anyone present who would like to comment on Closed Session Items.
BC, resident, commented regarding Item No. 3 and an article in The Downey Patriot.
Having no one else, Mayor Trujillo closed public comment.
RECESSED TO CLOSED SESSION
Mayor Trujillo announced the City Council is recessing to Closed Session at 5:39 p.m. to discuss matters under the authority of the following sections of the Government Code:
1. Conference with Legal Counsel Anticipated Litigation — Significant exposure to litigation pursuant to Government Code sections 54956.9(d)(2), (e)(3), and (e)(5). One (1) potential case.
2. Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1) — Conference with Legal Counsel — Existing Litigation:
Mariela Martinez v. City of Downey, Los Angeles Superior Court Case No. 23NWCV01799.
3. Conference with Legal Counsel — Anticipated Litigation — Significant exposure to litigation pursuant to Government Code sections 54956.9(d)(2) and (e)(3). Attached letter from Dawn Diaz, General Counsel for Ojos Locos Sports Cantina dated December 21, 2023, also available for public inspection at the City Clerk's Office at 11111 Brookshire Avenue during normal City business hours.
4. Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1) — Conference with Legal Counsel — Existing Litigation: City of Whittier et al. v. Superior Court of the State of California, County of Los Angeles et al., Los Angeles Superior Court Case No. 23STCP03579.
RECONVENED REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING — CLOSED SESSION Mayor Trujillo reconvened the Regular City Council Meeting — Closed Session at 6:40 p.m.
City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting — January 9, 2024
City Attorney Funk reported the Closed Session report as follows: In regards Item Nos. 1, 2, 3, and 4, no reportable action was taken.
The City Council of the City of Downey held a Regular City Council Meeting — Open Session on January 9, 2024 at 6:41 p.m., in the Council Chambers of the Downey City Hall, 11111 Brookshire Avenue, Downey, California, Mayor Trujillo presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members:
Mario Trujillo
Hector Sosa
Claudia M. Frometa
Horacio Ortiz
Dorothy Pemberton
Mayor
Mayor Pro Tern
Council Member
Council Member
Council Member
ALSO PRESENT: Roger Bradley, City Manager
Vaniah De Rojas, Assistant City Manager
John Funk, City Attorney
Scott Loughner, Interim Police Chief
Anthony Hildebrand, Assistant Fire Chief
Matthew Baumgardner, Public Works Director
James McQueen, Human Resources Director
Irma Huitron, Community Development Director
Stephen Hannah, Finance Director
Monica Ortiz, Recreation Manager
M. Alicia Duarte, CIVIC, City Clerk
The Invocation was delivered by Father Sam Ward, St. Raymond Catholic Church. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Assistant Fire Chief Anthony Hildebrand.
CITY COUNCIL MEMBER ANNOUNCEMENTS; REQUESTS FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS;
CONFERENCEIMEETING REPORTS
Mayor Trujillo announced that the visit from Pablo Lemus Navarro, Mayor of Guadalajara was being rescheduled to a later date.
Mayor Pro Tem Sosa welcomed residents and wished everyone a Happy New Year. he acknowledged the passing of his former high school wrestling coach, Robert Combs.
Council Member Pemberton reported attending numerous holiday events, including several tree lighting ceremonies, with Santa's Sleigh being a highlight. She commended the Police, Fire, Parks and Recreation, and Public Works Departments for coordinating the event. She reported visiting all four Fire Stations and the Police Department with Council Member Ortiz on Christmas to deliver treats to Police and Fire personnel. She attended Wreaths Across America at the Downey Cemetery and planned to attend the YMCA L.A.'s 53rd Annual MLK Jr. Breakfast. She expressed appreciation to her appointed commissioners, especially welcoming two new Youth Commissioners. She thanked residents for their compliance with composting food under SB 1383 and acknowledged the efforts of Public Works and Code Enforcement in responding to constituent concerns. Council Member Pemberton requested an update on the City's political sign ordinance, citing resident complaints about excessive and premature signage during past election cycles and expressed interest in exploring ways to reduce the amount of signage in future elections.
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Council Member Ortiz congratulated the Rose Float Association on winning the prestigious Wrigley Award and commended the volunteers for their contributions. He requested staff conduct a traffic safety evaluation on major streets prone to accidents, including Brookshire Ave., Lakewood Blvd., and Old River School Rd. He also requested an assessment of the number of smoke shops in each district and asked staff to explore measures to limit new smoke shop establishments. He expressed gratitude to City staff and City Manager Bradley for their efforts in addressing RV -related issues on Woodruff Ave.
Council Member Frometa welcomed the audience to the meeting. She informed residents that January 9 is Law Enforcement Appreciation Day and commended the Downey Rose Float Association for winning the Wrigley Legacy Award. She proposed honoring the Association and Rose Float Court at a future Council meeting. She thanked staff for clearing RV's on Woodruff Blvd. but raised concerns about RV's reappearing on Gardendale St. and Stewart and Gray Rd., noting public health and safety risks voiced by residents. Council Member Frometa requested staff to address a damaged bus bench, near Stonewood Center on Firestone Blvd.
Mayor Trujillo requested an assessment of the City's graffiti abatement trucks to determine if replacements or upgrades are necessary. He requested staff reach out to the County in order to permanently repave the deteriorating streets near the L. A. County Superior - Downey Courthouse.
Mayor Trujillo suggested re-establishing an Arts, Culture, and History Commission, enabling each Council Member to appoint a commissioner. He also requested staff contact Gerald Blackburn of the Aerospace Legacy Foundation to explore the potential transfer of historically significant items related to Downey for preservation. Mayor Trujillo raised concerns about unauthorized car sales on Paramount Blvd. and proposed engaging the DMV to address unlicensed dealerships.
CITY MANAGER/STAFF MEMBER COMMENTS
City Manager Bradley requested a second on a motion to update the political sign ordinance, which Council Member Frometa seconded. He also sought a second on a motion to asses traffic accidents, noting that staff has already received direction from Council to look into it. He stated staff is actively reviewing the Local Road Safety Plan which evaluates traffic accidents, identifies causes, and proposes safety improvements. Additionally, staff is reassessing previously adopted traffic calming measures to address issues such as speeding. Both topics are returning for Council discussion before the end of the fiscal year. Bradley further requested a second on a motion to evaluate smoke shops in each Council district, which Council Member Frometa seconded. He confirmed that efforts to address illegal RV issues have commenced in coordination with the Police Department, ensuring a community - wide approach. He affirmed that staff will review the bus bench located across from Toyota dealership.
PRESENTATIONS
1. Presentation of City Tile to retiring employee with 21 years of service, Lucy Reyes, Code Enforcement Officer.
2. Presentation of City Tile to retiring employee with 34 years of service, Desiderio "Desi" Gutierrez, Principal Civil Engineer.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
1. AMENDMENT TO THE FISCAL YEAR 2023-2024 ACTION PLAN: Community Development. 1) CONDUCTED A PUBLIC HEARING AND RECEIVE COMMENTS ON THE REVISED SUBSTANTIAL AMENDMENT TO THE FISCAL YEAR 2023-2024 ANNUAL ACTION PLAN
FOR THE USE OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT FUNDS, THEREBY REALLOCATING $165,000 TO THE EXISTING HOUSING REHABILITATION PROGRAM; City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting January 9, 2024 3
2) SUBMITTED AN UPDATED HOME VALUE ANALYSIS SPECIFIC TO THE CITY OF DOWNEY TO THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, ESTABLISHING A LOCAL 95 PERCENT OF MEDIAN AREA PURCHASE PRICE LIMIT; 3) APPROVED THE PROPOSED 2023-2024 ANNUAL ACTION PLAN SUBSTANTIAL
AMENDMENT AND AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER, OR HIS DESIGNEE, TO SUBMIT THE PLAN AND ANY NECESSARY AMENDMENTS TO THE PLAN TO THE U.S.
DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT; AND,
4) AUTHORIZED THE CITY MANAGER, OR HIS DESIGNEE, TO MODIFY AND EXECUTE
ANY AND ALL APPROPRIATE INSTRUMENTS, AGREEMENTS, CONTRACTS, AND
IMPLEMENTING DOCUMENTS RELATED TO THE IMPLEMENTATION AND ADMINISTRATION OF THE SUBSTANTIAL AMENDMENT TO THE 2023-2024 ANNUAL
ACTION PLAN FOR THE USE OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT
PROGRAM FUNDS
Mayor Trujillo opened the Public Hearing at 7:11 p.m.
City Clerk Duarte affirmed receipt of the Proof of Publication. It was moved by Council Member Frometa, seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Sosa, and carried 5-0, to receive and file the publication.
Jessica Flores, Housing Manager, presented a proposed amendment to the City's HUD - mandated Action Plan. She began by providing background on the City's annual federal funding through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), specifically the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnership funds. These funds support several City programs including housing rehabilitation, public service activities, general program administration, and rental assistance. Ms. Flores explained that any change to the programs outlined in the annual Action Plan requires a formal amendment. Staff recommended reallocating $165,000 in CDBG funds to the Housing Rehabilitation Program. The reallocation would come from the cancellation of the CDBG-funded Code Enforcement Program, a $10,000 reduction from the Public Service Allocation to True Lasting Connections (TLC), and a $10,000 reduction from the allocation to Community Family Guidance Center (CFGC). Ms. Flores noted that the Code Enforcement program was proposed for cancellation following a recent HUD monitoring visit, which indicated that the City would need to demonstrate severe community decline to justify the program. Staff and the City's housing consultant determined that Downey did not meet HUD's high eligibility criteria for continued CDBG Code Enforcement funding. In addition, TLC and CFGC declined their allocations due to the inability to meet HUD's stringent reporting requirements. As such, their funding would also be reallocated to the rehabilitation program.
Ms. Flores emphasized that the cancellation of the CDBG-funded Code Enforcement program would not affect the City's ongoing code enforcement operations. Funding for the department remains secure through the General Fund, including staffing for one additional full-time Senior Code Enforcement Officer and two part-time employees, all expected to be onboarded by the end of the month. The reallocation would allow approximately three additional housing rehabilitation projects to be completed in the current fiscal year, supporting the City Council's goal of assisting more households. So far, this fiscal year, the City has 12 projects at various stages preconstruction, construction, or completion, and 10 applications are under review. Staff anticipates a total of 29 completed projects this year, compared to 19 completed last fiscal year. Flores attributed the increased productivity to augmented housing staff and improved processing times. She also reviewed examples of completed rehabilitation projects involving both interior and exterior work such as roofing, structural repairs, painting, HVAC replacement, plumbing, electrical work, termite treatment, and installation of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
Ms. Flores addressed HUD's requirement for housing units to be considered "modest" under the HOME -funded rehabilitation program, which restricts eligibility to properties with after -rehabilitation values not exceeding 95% of the median home price in Los Angeles County —currently $646,000.
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Because Downey's home values exceed this amount, staff prepared and submitted a Downey -specific home value analysis, provided to Council at the dais. The analysis established Downey's 95% median value for single-family homes at $836,000, which would enable more residents to qualify for rehabilitation assistance. Ms. Flores outlined staffs recommendations for Council to: conduct the public hearing and receive comments on the proposed amendment; reallocate $165,000 to the Housing Rehabilitation Program; approve submission of the Downey -specific home value analysis to HUD; approve the Action Plan amendment; and, authorize the City Manager or designee to execute related documents and actions necessary for implementation.
Council Member Pemberton asked if the maximum amount each applicant can receive is $50,000.
Ms. Flores confirmed that the maximum an applicant can receive is $50,000.
Council Member Pemberton questioned whether the high number of denied or disqualified applicants was due to housing issues or income level. Ms. Flores clarified that while there are a few reasons for disqualification, the primary one is that applicants often exceed HUD's allowable income limits.
Council Member Frometa asked how frequently home appraisals are updated, noting that the real estate market is active and varies by location. Ms. Flores explained that HUD updates appraisals annually, and the City conducts a Downey -specific analysis when presenting the Action Plan, with this year's amendment including an updated review.
Council Member Frometa asked whether the per -home funding for the program is comparable to other cities and sufficient given inflation and rising material costs. Director Huitron confirmed that the $50,000 allocation per home was recently increased and is generally sufficient to cover substantial repairs under HUD guidelines, though staff is considering allowing slight increases on a case -by -case basis for unforeseen project need.
Council Member Frometa asked how applications are being prioritized or re -prioritized to ensure equity, particularly between families, retirees, and individuals on fixed incomes, given the substantial waitlist. Director Huitron stated that the City maintains a numbered waiting list for the Housing Rehabilitation Program and contacts applicants in order, allowing them ample time to respond and even granting extensions when necessary, recognizing that some applicants may need assistance from family members or time to gather income documentation. The process is designed to be equitable by adhering to the order of the list. However, a significant challenge has been that many homeowners do not meet the income qualifications required under the HOME funding guidelines. To address this, a modification to the Action Plan is being presented to Council to expand eligibility and allow more residents, particularly those who were previously disqualified due to income limits, to participate in the program. The City believes this change will help reach more homeowners in need. Additionally, if the current waitlist is exhausted before reaching the goal of rehabilitating 29 homes by the end of the fiscal year, the City plans to conduct further outreach to attract new qualified applicants.
Council Member Frometa asked whether a homeowner who has already received assistance and completed work through the program is permanently ineligible to reapply or if they may reapply after a certain number of years and if it made clear to applicants. Ms. Flores confirmed that based on the City's regulations they cannot reapply and stated that the City has an interest form that lists that as one of the eligibility requirements.
Council Member Pemberton asked whether a lien is still placed on the home after work is completed, and if the funds are reimbursed to the City when the property is sold. Ms. Flores clarified that the current program is a grant, not a loan, so liens are no longer placed on properties as they were under the previous loan -based program
Mayor Trujillo asked if code enforcement has ever proactively connected individuals to the Housing Rehabilitation Program for assistance. Ms. Flores confirmed that this has occurred.
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Mayor Trujillo asked City Clerk Duarte if any written public comments were received regarding the Public Hearing item. City Clerk Duarte confirmed no written public comments were received.
Mayor Trujillo asked if there was anyone present who would like to comment regarding the Public Hearing item.
Lee Squire, resident, commented regarding single-family residential mobile homes, the reallocation of $165,000 to grant programs, requested clarification on what other eligible activities the funds could have been used for to ensure full public disclosure.
BC, resident, commented in opposition to allocating funds to nonprofits such as L.A. CADA and The Whole Child.
It was moved by Council Member Frometa, seconded by Council Member Ortiz, and carried 5-0, to close the Public Hearing at 8:08 p.m.
It was moved by Council Member Frometa, seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Sosa, and carried 5-0, to approve staffs recommended actions numbers 1-4.
PUBLIC COMMENT ON AGENDA, CONSENT CALENDAR AND NON -AGENDA ITEMS Mayor Trujillo asked City Clerk Duarte if any written public comments were received regarding Agenda, Consent Calendar and Non -Agenda items. City Clerk Duarte confirmed no written public comments were received.
Mayor Trujillo asked if there was anyone present who would like to comment regarding Agenda, Consent Calendar and Non -Agenda items.
Lee Squire, a resident, provided comments regarding closed session item number three along with addressing civil rights movements and Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
Alan Halstensgaard, resident, commented regarding abortion.
Ernesto Valle, resident, commented regarding used car sales at Suva St. and Guatemala Ave, he requested guidance on petitioning for speed bumps due to traffic fatalities, and opposed any potential City tax increase.
Jeff McCaughan, resident, commented in opposition to the installation of lighting at Furman Park.
John Lacey, resident, commented regarding artificial intelligence and insufficient communication from City Hall.
Speaker No. 6, no name provided, commented in opposition to the installation of lighting at Furman Park.
BC, resident, commented in opposition to new tax increases and the funding of nonprofits.
Emery Sipos, resident, thanked the firefighters who assisted in saving his life.
It was moved by Council Member Frometa, seconded by Council Member Pemberton, and so ordered by Mayor Trujillo, to close public comment.
CONSENT CALENDAR
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Regular Meeting — January 9, 2024 6
Council Member Frometa pulled Item No. 8 for separate discussion.
Council Member Ortiz pulled Item No. 6 for separate discussion.
It was moved by Council Member Frometa, seconded by Council Member Ortiz, and carried 5-0, to approve the remainder of the Consent Calendar.
2. APPROVED MINUTES: September 26, 2023 (Open Session); October 24, 2023 (Open and Closed Session): City Clerk.
3. WARRANTS ISSUED: Warrant Nos. 373845 — 374625; Payroll Wire Nos. 30004395, 30004397 & 30004415, 30004416, 30004418, 30004420, 30004422 and 30004423; EFT Nos. 13132 — 13198; and, Manual Wire Nos. 2453 — 2461 in the total amount of $7,411,418.14: Finance.
4. ACCEPTANCE OF WORK FOR THE MANZANAR AVE. AND BERGMAN LN. STREET IMPROVEMENTS, CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT (CIP) NO. 24-04: Public Works. 1) ACCEPTED THE WORK FOR THE MANZANAR AVE. AND BERGMAN LN. STREET IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT, CIP NO. 24-04;
2) APPROVED GENTRY GENERAL ENGINEERING INCORPORATED'S FINAL CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT AMOUNT OF $279,540.50; AND,
3) AUTHORIZED THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS/CITY ENGINEER TO FILE A NOTICE
OF COMPLETION FOR THE PROJECT
5. PURCHASE OF WATER METERS AND RADIO EQUIPMENT FOR PUBLIC WORKS UTILITIES OPERATIONS: Public Works.
APPROVED A PURCHASE ORDER WITH AQUAMETRIC SALES COMPANY, INC. FOR
WATER METERS AND ASSOCIATED RADIO EQUIPMENT FOR A TOTAL AMOUNT OF $363,492
7. APPROVAL OF PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT FOR SUCCESSOR AGENCY AND HOUSING AUTHORITY SERVICES WITH TIERRA WEST ADVISORS INC.: Community Development.
1) APPROVED A PROFESSIONAL SERVICE AGREEMENT WITH TIERRA WEST ADVISORS INC. FOR SUCCESSOR AGENCY AND HOUSING AUTHORITY SERVICES, IN A NOT -TO -EXCEED AMOUNT OF $127,580;
2) APPROPRIATED $67,580 TO GENERAL FUND, COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ACCOUNT NO. 10-4-5910-0700; AND,
3) AUTHORIZED THE CITY MANAGER, OR HIS DESIGNEES, TO EXECUTE THE
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT
9. APPROVAL OF MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING WITH SEAACA FOR THE "PETS FOR FUR-ST RESPONDERS" PROGRAM: Administration.
APPROVED A MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING (MOU) WITH THE SOUTHEAST AREA ANIMAL CONTROL AUTHORITY (SEAACA) FOR THE "PETS FOR FUR-ST RESPONDERS"
PROGRAM AND AUTHORIZE THE CITY MANAGER TO SIGN IT
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Regular Meeting — January 9, 2024 7
10. APPROVAL OF MASTER AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF DOWNEY AND CALIFORNIA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION ADMINISTERING AGENCY -STATE AGREEMENT FOR STATE -FUNDED PROJECTS: Public Works.
1) ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 24-8210, APPROVING THE MASTER AGREEMENT
ADMINISTERING AGENCY -STATE AGREEMENT FOR STATE -FUNDED PROJECTS (AGREEMENT NO. 07-5334S21); AND,
2) AUTHORIZED THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE PROGRAM SUPPLEMENTS TO THE
AGENCY -STATE MASTER AGREEMENT FOR VARIOUS STATE -FUNDED PROJECTS
11. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING SUBMITTAL OF APPLICATION(S) FOR ALL CALIFORNIA
DEPARTMENT OF RESOURCES, RECYCLING, AND RECOVERY (CALRECYCLE) PAYMENT PROGRAMS AND RELATED AUTHORIZATIONS: Public Works.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1) ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 24-8211, AUTHORIZING THE SUBMITTAL OF
APPLICATION(S) FOR ALL CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF RESOURCES, RECYCLING,
AND RECOVERY (CALRECYCLE) PAYMENT PROGRAMS AND RELATED
AUTHORIZATION; AND,
2) AUTHORIZED THE CITY MANAGER OR DESIGNEE TO EXECUTE ALL GRANT -
RELATED DOCUMENTS
12. RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING DESTRUCTION OF CERTAIN OBSOLETE POLICE DEPARTMENT RECORDS: Police.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 24-8212, APPROVING THE DESTRUCTION OF CERTAIN
OBSOLETE RECORDS OF THE POLICE DEPARTMENT
13. APPOINTMENT TO THE PLANNING COMMISSION FOR COUNCIL DISTRICT 1: Council Member Ortiz.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 24-8213, APPROVING THE APPOINTMENT OF HECTOR LUJAN TO THE PLANNING COMMISSION FOR COUNCIL DISTRICT 1
14. APPOINTMENT TO THE LIBRARY ADVISORY BOARD FOR COUNCIL DISTRICT 1: Council Member Ortiz.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 24-8214, APPROVING THE APPOINTMENT OF SANDRA LOZANO TO THE LIBRARY ADVISORY BOARD FOR COUNCIL DISTRICT 1
15. APPOINTMENT TO THE RECREATION AND COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION FOR COUNCIL DISTRICT 3: Council Member Pemberton.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 24-8215, APPROVING THE APPOINTMENT OF JUAN SOTO
TO THE RECREATION AND COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION FOR COUNCIL DISTRICT 3
16. APPOINTMENT TO THE LIBRARY ADVISORY BOARD FOR COUNCIL DISTRICT 3: Council Member Pemberton.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 24-8216, APPROVING THE APPOINTMENT OF KATIE CASTELLANOS TO THE LIBRARY ADVISORY BOARD FOR COUNCIL DISTRICT 3 City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting — January 9, 2024 8
17. APPOINTMENT TO THE INDEPENDENT CITIZENS' OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE FOR COUNCIL DISTRICT 3: Council Member Pemberton.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 24-8217, APPROVING THE APPOINTMENT OF REBECCA
REYES TO THE INDEPENDENT CITIZENS' OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE FOR COUNCIL DISTRICT 3
18. APPOINTMENT TO THE BOARD OF BUILDING APPEALS FOR COUNCIL DISTRICT 3: Council Member Pemberton.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 24-8218, APPROVING THE APPOINTMENT OF JEFF MCCAUGHAN TO THE BOARD OF BUILDING APPEALS FOR COUNCIL DISTRICT 3
19. APPOINTMENT TO THE PLANNING COMMISSION FOR COUNCIL DISTRICT 3: Council Member Pemberton.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 24-8219, APPROVING THE APPOINTMENT OF ELIAS SAIKALY TO THE PLANNING COMMISSION FOR DISTRICT 3
20. APPOINTMENT TO THE PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE FOR COUNCIL DISTRICT 3: Council Member Pemberton.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO.24-8220, APPROVING THE APPOINTMENT OF SUE SAIKALY TO THE PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE FOR DISTRICT 3
21. APPOINTMENT TO THE GREEN TASK FORCE FOR DISTRICT 3: Council Member Pemberton.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 24-8221, APPROVING THE APPOINTMENT OF BRIANA LOPEZ TO THE GREEN TASK FORCE FOR DISTRICT 3
22. APPOINTMENT TO THE PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE FOR COUNCIL DISTRICT 3: Council Member Pemberton.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 24-8222, APPROVING THE APPOINTMENT OF ERNESTO VALLE TO THE PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE FOR DISTRICT 3
23. APPOINTMENT TO THE PLANNING COMMISSION FOR COUNCIL DISTRICT 5: Mayor Trujillo.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 24-8223, APPROVING THE APPOINTMENT OF LOUIS
MORALES TO THE PLANNING COMMISSION FOR COUNCIL DISTRICTS
24. APPOINTMENT TO THE PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE FOR COUNCIL DISTRICT 5: Mayor Trujillo.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 24-8224, APPROVING THE APPOINTMENT OF LISSETTE
RIVERA TO REPLACE THE EXISTING MEMBER ON THE PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE FOR COUNCIL DISTRICT 5
25. APPOINTMENT TO THE RECREATION AND COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION FOR COUNCIL DISTRICT 5: Mayor Trujillo.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 24-8225, APPROVING THE APPOINTMENT OF ERNESTO
VALLE TO REPLACE THE EXISTING COMMISSIONER ON THE RECREATION AND COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION FOR COUNCIL DISTRICT 5
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26. APPOINTMENTS TO THE 2023/2024 DOWNEY YOUTH COMMISSION IN DISTRICT 3: Parks & Recreation.
APPROVED THE APPOINTMENT OF ALEXIS AVALOS AND SOFIA VELA TO THE 2023/2024 DOWNEY YOUTH COMMISSION FOR DISTRICT 3
27. STREET CLOSURE REQUEST 12th ANNUAL 5K FOR TRUE LASTING CONNECTIONS FAMILY RESOURCE CENTER EVENT: Parks & Recreation.
AUTHORIZED THE FOLLOWING STREET CLOSURES FOR THE ANNUAL 5K FOR TRUE
LASTING CONNECTIONS FAMILY RESOURCE CENTER EVENT SCHEDULED FOR SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2024
RIVES AVE. BETWEEN HONDO ST. AND LEEDS ST.
QUILL DR. BETWEEN OLD RIVER SCHOOL RD. AND MORNING AVE.
RICHEON AVE. BETWEEN QUILL DR. AND HONDO ST.
28. BUDGET CALENDAR FOR 2024-2025 FISCAL YEAR: Finance.
APPROVED THE ATTACHED BUDGET CALENDAR FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 2024-2025 BUDGET
29. APPROVAL OF COUNCIL MEETING CALENDAR FOR 2024: Administration.
APPROVED THE COUNCIL MEETING SCHEDULE FOR 2024
OTHER BUSINESS
Item No. 6, was taken out of order.
6. APPROVAL OF PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH AVAIL TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
FOR THE PROCUREMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION OF TRANSIT MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS
FOR DOWNEY LINK BUSES IN CONJUNCTION WITH CITYWIDE BUS SIGNAL PRIORITY PROJECT, CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT (CIP) NO. 17-07: Public Works. 1) APPROVED THE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH AVAIL TECHNOLOGIES, INC. FOR THE PROCUREMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION OF TRANSIT MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS FOR A ONE-YEAR TERM BEGINNING ON JANUARY 10, 2024, WITH THE OPTIONAL EXTENDED TERM OF THREE ADDITIONAL YEARS, FOR A TOTAL AMOUNT OF $427,500; AND,
2) AUTHORIZED THE CITY MANAGER OR HIS DESIGNEE TO EXECUTE THE AGREEMENT WITH AVAIL TECHNOLOGIES, INC. IN THE AMOUNT OF $427,500,
INCLUDING ANY NON -SUBSTANTIVE EXTENSIONS, CHANGE ORDERS, PURCHASE
ORDERS, AND AMENDMENTS UP TO THE AUTHORIZED BUDGET AMOUNT OF $427,500
Council Member Ortiz requested more information and a report on the Downey Link, including ridership data, funding sources, and permissible uses of the funds.
Mayor Trujillo asked if Council Member Ortiz would like to table the item until more information is received. City Manager Bradley said he would provide a report at a future meeting.
Council Member Frometa clarified that the Avail Technologies Capital Improvement Project is a separate matter from the operations of the Downey Link Transit System.
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Director Baumgardner explained that the project has two components: the first is the hardware being installed at signalized intersections to allow buses, including Downey Link, LA Metro, and Long Beach Transit, to extend green lights for improved traffic flow. The second component, which is the current item, involves Avail Technologies installing software on Downey Link buses so they can communicate with that hardware, enabling signal prioritization, and includes training bus drivers on how to use the system to move through intersections more efficiently.
Council Member Ortiz asked if this was only for Downey Link Buses.
Council Member Frometa explained that the project enables transit signal priority for Downey Link, L.A. Metro, and Long Beach Transit by retrofitting signalized intersections along six major routes with receivers and programming transmitters into buses. It also includes expanding the City's fiber optic communication system to support bus mobility, involves a fleet of seven buses, and is separate from the Downey Link funding report. She emphasized the urgency of the project to avoid delays and keep traffic moving.
City Manager Bradley noted that 60% of the project is funded by a grant rather than City funds and recommended proceeding with the project, with a full program report to be presented at a later date.
It was moved by Council Member Pemberton, seconded by Council Member Frometa, and carried 5-0, to approve the professional services agreement with Avail Technologies, Inc. for the procurement and implementation of transit management systems for Downey Link buses in conjunction with citywide bus signal priority project.
Item No. 8 was taken out of order.
8. APPROVAL OF AGREEMENT WITH STAR -DUST TOURS FOR CHARTER BUSES FOR ADULT AND YOUTH FIELD TRIPS: Parks & Recreation.
APPROVED THE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH STAR -DUST TOURS, INC. FOR YOUTH AND ADULT FIELD TRIP TRANSPORTATION SERVICES FOR A TERM OF
1.5 YEARS BEGINNING ON JANUARY 9, 2024, WITH THE OPTIONAL EXTENSION OF TWO, 1-YEAR TERMS, FOR A TOTAL CONTRACT AMOUNT OF $151,200
Council Member Frometa inquired about the projected savings from consolidating bus services under one contract, noting it appears to be the first time the City is pursuing this approach. She also requested past expenditure figures from Parks and Recreation for bus services. Monica Ortiz, Parks and Recreation Manager, confirmed that consolidating bus services under one contract will streamline the process and result in cost savings. She noted the exact savings figure was not immediately available and would be provided to Council at a later time.
City Manager Bradley added that combining services into one contract is a best practice that leverages economies of scale, resulting in better pricing and long-term cost savings. He explained that previous one-off bus rentals often led to higher bids due to vendor availability. This approach also aligns with the City's purchasing policy. Staff will be to providing the exact savings figures at a later time.
Council Member Frometa noted that the City typically books around 86 buses annually. She referenced the report for Fiscal Year 2024-25 and confirmed that, due to contracting with a single company, the number of buses for the current fiscal year will be reduced to 58. Manager Ortiz confirmed that the information was correct.
It was moved by Council Member Frometa, seconded by Mayor Trujillo, and carried 5-0, to approve the agreement with Star -Dust Tours for Charter Buses for Adult and Youth Field Trips.
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Regular Meeting — January 9, 2024 11
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
30. CITY COUNCIL APPOINTMENTS TO THE INTER -GOVERNMENT AGENCIES AND COUNCIL SUBCOMMITTEES FOR 2024: City Clerk.
1) APPROVED THE CITY COUNCIL APPOINTMENTS TO THE INTER -GOVERNMENT AGENCIES AND COUNCIL SUBCOMMITTEES FOR 2024;
2) T ERMINATED THE ECO-RAPID TRANSIT, RIO HONDO GOLF CLUB AND RANCHO
LOS AMIGOS PROPERTY SUBCOMMITTEES, AND,
3) MERGED THE AFFORDABLE HOUSING AND RENTER'S RIGHTS SUBCOMMITTEES
INTO THE AFFORDABLE AND TENANTS' HOUSING SUBCOMMITTEE
City Manager Bradley stated that Item No. 30, pertains to the Mayor's annual appointments of Council Members to inter -governmental and Council Subcommittees. The proposed appointments, subcommittee terminations, and mergers were included in the agenda materials.
Council Member Frometa requested changes to the 2024 Inter -governmental assignments. She noted she currently serves as the Chair of the Southeast Area Animal Control Authority (SEAACA) Board through August and recommended remaining the primary while Mayor Trujillo serves as the alternate.
Mayor Trujillo agreed with Council Member Frometa's request to continue her designation as the primary representative for SEAACA, agreeing to exchange positions and serve as the alternate.
Council Member Frometa requested to be designated as the primary representative for California Association of Councils of Governments (COG), citing her role on the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) board, which is closely linked to COG. She proposed that Mayor Trujillo serve as the alternate.
Mayor Mario Trujillo agreed with Council Member Frometa's request to continue her designation as the primary representative for the COG, agreeing to exchange positions and serve as the alternate.
Mayor Pro Tern Sosa emphasized the importance of ensuring Downey is represented at all assigned meetings and requested that council members communicate in advance if they are unable to attend, so that alternate arrangements can be made.
Council Member Frometa questioned the inclusion of the Rancho South Campus Future Development Ad Hoc Committee.
City Manager Roger Bradley clarified it is a non -Brown Act Ad -Hoc Committee, therefore it is not listed.
It was moved by Council Member Frometa, seconded by Council Member Ortiz, and carried 5-0, to approve the appointments, terminations of committees and mergers.
ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Trujillo adjourned the Regular City Council Meeting at 8:12 p.m. in memory of Deputy Sheriff Justin Smith of the Stone County Sheriffs Office, Arkansas, who died while serving a warrant and attempting to arrest a subject for terroristic threats; Deputy Sheriff Justin Smith Minix of the Coweta County Sheriff's Office, Georgia, who died after being struck by a vehicle when responding to a high- speed chase; the five crew members killed in a plane crash in Tokyo, Japan; and, Police Officer Tuan Le of the Oakland Police Department who was shot and killed while responding to a burglary call.
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Regular Meeting - January 9, 2024 12
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Regular Meeting — January 9, 2024 13