MINUTES OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
REGULAR MEETING
FEBRUARY 27, 2024
The City Council of the City of Downey held a Regular City Council Meeting — Closed Session on February 27, 2024, at 5:35 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 Tem
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
M. Alicia Duarte, CMC, City Clerk
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.
Having no one, Mayor Trujillo closed public comment.
RECESSED TO CLOSED SESSION
Mayor Trujillo announced the City Council is recessing to Closed Session at 5:37 p.m. to discuss matters under the authority of the following sections of the Government Code:
Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1) — Conference with Legal Counsel — Existing Litigation: Lucy Sanchez-Alonso v. City of Downey, et at., Los Angeles Superior Court Case No. 21STCV46702.
RECONVENED REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING — CLOSED SESSION Mayor Trujillo reconvened the Regular City Council Meeting — Closed Session at 6:30 p.m.
City Attorney Funk reported the Closed Session report as follows: In regards Item No. 1, the case of Lucy Sanchez-Alonso v. City of Downey, Los Angeles Superior Court Case No. 21 STCV46702, the City Council voted 5-0, to settle the matter in the amount of $45,0000.
The City Council of the City of Downey held a Regular City Council Meeting — Open Session on February 27, 2024 at 6:33 p.m., in the Council Chambers of the Downey City Hall, 11111 Brookshire Avenue, Downey, California, Mayor Trujillo presiding.
City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting — February 27, 2024
PRESENT: Council Members:
Mario Trujillo Mayor
Hector Sosa Mayor Pro Tern
Claudia M. Frometa Council Member
Horacio Ortiz Council Member
Dorothy Pemberton 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 Greg Welch, Chaplain of the Downey Police Department. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Girl Scout Troop #5605.
CITY COUNCIL MEMBER ANNOUNCEMENTS; REQUESTS FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS;
CONFERENCE/MEETING REPORTS
Mayor Pro Tern Sosa welcomed the audience and reported attending a SELACO Workforce Development Board meeting. He shared that SELACO is a great organization that he mentioned provides great resources for job training, enhancing skills and great work for veterans. California has 45 workforce development areas, with Downey being part of the Southeast Los Angeles County region. This region includes Artesia, Bellflower, Cerritos, Downey, Hawaiian Gardens, Lakewood, Norwalk, and Paramount.
He announced that the West Downey Little League Opening Day ceremonies will take place on March 9, at Stauffer Middle School. He requested staff look into recent or new speed surveys for the area between Paramount Blvd. and Old River School Rd. The motion received a second by Council Member Ortiz.
Council Member Pemberton welcomed the audience and reported attending local fundraisers for the Downey Chamber of Commerce at Handel's Ice Cream and the Downey Conservancy at Bob's Big Boy. She also reported that speaking at the Chamber's City Affairs Luncheon. She attended participated in an educational Town Hall on fentanyl awareness at the Columbia Space Center, hosted by Assemblywoman Blanca Pacheco, which was well attended and included contributions from law enforcement, the fire department, and other experts. She highlighted the City Council's recent strategic planning session held at the Library with City staff. She thanked City staff for their responsiveness, particularly in Code Enforcement, and praised the Community Development Department for addressing resident concerns. Council Member Pemberton noted that in fiscal year 2024-2025, the City will plant 250 new trees and will give away 200 fruit trees during the Arbor Day event scheduled for April 26. She attended an event at the Coca-Cola facility celebrating the launch of over 50 electric trucks, and shared that Reyes Coca-Cola is the largest distributor in North America and an important asset to Downey. She attended the TLC 5k run at the Barbara J. Riley Center, which had 1,200 participants, and the launch of the Downey Youth Police Academy, an 11-week program for high school seniors. She recognized the Downey Library's digital display honoring African American Heritage Month and highlighted former Los Angeles Mayor Tom Bradley for his historic 20-year tenure. She welcomed new Downey Police Officer Travis O'Gorman and noted he is the Department's fourth recent hire. Council Member Pemberton complimented the City's employee newsletter, Good Things, and thanked the City Manager and staff for their work in highlighting key employees. She announced several upcoming events including the Neighborhood Watch Block Captain Meeting on March 5, Downey Ponytail Softball and Northwest City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting — February 27, 2024 2
Downey Little League Opening Day on March 2, and the Chamber's Women's Empowerment Conference on March 1 at the Embassy Suites featuring guest speaker Betty Porto. She noted the ARC Walk at Stonewood on March 23, Soroptimist Casino Night on April 12 at the ARC, and FatherCon event at Cal State Dominguez Hills. She requested staff look into the possibility of removing Downey from the Waze app, citing resident concerns about increased traffic being routed through City streets.
Council Member Ortiz shared that she recently spoke to the ASB students at Columbus High School about her background and the importance of voting. He noted that the Q&A session with the students was insightful and inspiring, as they shared various ideas for the City. One suggestion they asked him to bring to the Council was their interest in Round One Spo-cha, a more expansive indoor sports complex that includes bowling, arcade games, laser tag, trampolines, and other activities, rather than a standard Round One location. He attended Assemblywoman Blanca Pacheco's event for One Pill Can Kill, the Chamber's City Affairs luncheon, and was present for the opening session of the Downey Police Youth Academy. Additionally, he was invited to Gallatin Elementary' s PTA Excellence Award event, where the school was nationally recognized for its emphasis on community involvement and wellness.
Council Member Frometa welcomed attendees to the meeting in the chamber and those watching online, noting that engaged communities are strong communities. She acknowledged several individuals in attendance, including former Mayor Kirk Cartozian, Planning Commissioner Carrie Uva, Public Works Commissioner Dania Janzak, Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Michael Calvert, Parks and Recreation Commissioner Jeannie Wood, former Chamber of Commerce President Carmen Gonzalez, and former Youth Commissioner Jordan, now a student at LMU. Council Member Frometa highlighted the recent Council Strategic Planning Workshop, where Council Members and staff outlined priorities and goals for the upcoming fiscal year and beyond. Council Member Frometa announced plans to host a spring town hall, and "Coffee with Council Member Frometa". She also plans to launch weekly "Walking Power Hours" at Downey High School. She acknowledged and thanked the Downey Police Department for their continued foot patrols in the Downtown area on weekends, which have been positively received by the community. She asked for continued Code Enforcement visits to ensure businesses are operating with the appropriate licenses, particularly as the City experiences ongoing growth.
Mayor Trujillo requested that staff reach out to Gallatin Elementary School to arrange for them to be honored with the Mayor's Excellence Award, noting the national significance of the recognition they received. He encouraged the community to support the Downey Theatre and highlighted upcoming events. He also announced that the City is preparing to celebrate the legacy of The Carpenters with an award -winning show at the theater on April 24, kicking off three days of events in their honor.
CITY MANAGER/STAFF MEMBER COMMENTS PRESENTATIONS
City Manager Bradley confirmed that staff will continue working with local businesses to ensure proper licensing and permitted uses. He acknowledged the request to connect with Gallatin PTA regarding the Mayor's Excellence Award and stated that staff would follow up on the item. Additionally, he requested clarification regarding an update on the Keep Downey Healthy initiative and its associated committee and received a second from Council Member Frometa to bring the item back for discussion.
PRESENTATIONS: None.
PUBLIC HEARINGS: None.
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 one written comment was received.
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Regular Meeting — February 27, 2024 3
Jen Flores, resident, commented in opposition to a 30-unit housing project at the Lord's Grace of Downey Church site.
It was moved by Council Member Frometa, seconded by Council Member Ortiz, and carried 5- 0, to receive and file written public comment.
Mayor Trujillo asked if there was anyone present who would like to comment regarding Agenda, Consent Calendar and Non -Agenda items.
B.C., resident, commented in regards to the irrigation system changing from potable water to recycled water at Furman Park.
Rodolfo Cortes-Barragan, non-resident, commented in support of a cease fire resolution and the City's water.
Juan Martinez, resident, commented against the sectarian prayer.
Speaker No. 4, no name provided, commented against LGBTQ activities in the City.
Speaker No. 5, resident, no name provided, commented in regards to adding additional bike paths in the City and and road safety by Gallatin Elementary.
Speaker No. 6, no name provided, commented in support of a cease fire resolution.
John Lacey, resident, commented on blank laws.
Joaquin Beltran, resident, commented in support of a ceasefire resolution.
Speaker No. 9, no name provided, commented in support of a cease fire resolution.
Michelle Farina, resident, commented in support of a cease fire resolution.
It was moved by Council Member Frometa, seconded by Council Member Ortiz, and so ordered by Mayor Trujillo to close public comment.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Mayor Trujillo abstained from Item Nos. 9 and Item No. 11, due to owing property in the area.
It was moved by Council Member Frometa, seconded by Council Member Sosa, and carried 5-0, to approve Consent Calendar.
1. APPROVED MINUTES: Special Meeting of December 14, 2023: City Clerk.
2. WARRANTS ISSUED: Warrant Nos. 375458 — 375862; Payroll Wire Nos. 30004431, 30004433 &30004435 — 30004436; EFT Nos. 13281 — 13322; Manual Wire Nos. 2478 — 2481; and, Cashier's Check Nos. 176 — 179 in the total amount of $4,169,502.65: Finance.
3. APPROVED PLANS, SPECIFICATIONS, AND SOLICITATION FOR CONSTRUCTION BIDS FOR RESIDENTIAL STREETS PAVEMENT REHABILITATION — AREAS 5 AND 7, CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT (CIP) NOS. 22-20 AND 22-21: Public Works.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
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Regular Meeting —February 27, 2024 4
APPROVED PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS, AND AUTHORIZED SOLICITATION, FOR CONSTRUCTION BIDS FOR RESIDENTIAL STREETS PAVEMENT REHABILITATION — AREA 5 AND 7, CIP NO. 22-20 AND 22-21
4. APPROVED PLANS, SPECIFICATIONS, AND CONSTRUCTION BIDS FOR THE ALLEYS NORTH OF FOSTER RD. PAVEMENT REHABILITATION PROJECT, CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT (CIP) NO. 23-02: Public Works.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
APPROVED THE PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS, AND AUTHORIZED THE SOLICITATION OF CONSTRUCTION BIDS, FOR THE ALLEYS NORTH OF FOSTER RD. PAVEMENT REHABILITATION PROJECT, CIP NO. 23-02
5. APPROVED CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 2023-2024 ANNUAL
MISCELLANEOUS CONCRETE REPAIRS (CITYWIDE), CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT NOS. 23-13, 24-01, 24-02: Public Works.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1) AWARDED A CONTRACT TO GENTRY GENERAL ENGINEERING, INC. IN THE AMOUNT OF $694,327.00 FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 2023-2024 ANNUAL MISCELLANEOUS CONCRETE REPAIRS (COUNCIL DISTRICT 1), AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT (ADA) AND MISCELLANEOUS IMPROVEMENTS (CITYWIDE), LAKEWOOD BLVD.
PARKWAY IMPROVEMENTS AND FIRE STATION NO. 1 PARKING LOT CONCRETE REPLACEMENT PROJECT, CIP NOS. 23-13, 24-01, 24-02;
2) APPROPRIATED $75,000 FROM MEASURE S BOND FUNDS FOR FENCING TO BE REPLACED AT FIRE STATION NO. 1 AS PART OF CIP NO. 23-13; AND, 3) AUTHORIZED THE CITY MANAGER OR HIS DESIGNEE TO EXECUTE ANY CHANGE
ORDERS OR ADDITIONAL SCOPE OF WORK FOR THIS PROJECT UP TO THE APPROVED PROJECT BUDGET OF $860,000
6. ACCEPTED WORK FOR THE FIRESTONE BLVD. AT LAKEWOOD BLVD. WATER SYSTEM IMPROVEMENTS, CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT (CIP) NO. 23-29: Public Works.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1) ACCEPTED THE WORK FOR THE FIRESTONE BLVD. AT LAKEWOOD BLVD. WATER SYSTEM IMPROVEMENTS, CIP NO. 23-29;
2) APPROVED THE FINAL CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT AMOUNT OF $2,891,682; AND, 3) AUTHORIZED THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS/CITY ENGINEER TO FILE A NOTICE
OF COMPLETION FOR THE PROJECT INDICATING THE WORK IS COMPLETE AND
HAS BEEN ACCEPTED BY THE CITY
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Regular Meeting — February 27, 2024 5
7. APPROVED SUBRECIPIENT AGREEMENT FOR PROPOSITION 1 REGIONAL RECYCLED WATER EXPANSION PROJECT GRANT FUNDING: Public Works.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1) APPROVED THE SUBRECIPIENT AGREEMENT WITH THE LOS ANGELES GATEWAY
REGION INTEGRATED REGIONAL WATER MANAGEMENT JOINT POWERS AUTHORITY FOR THE PROPOSITION 1 REGIONAL RECYCLED WATER EXPANSION PROJECT GRANT FUNDING;
2) AUTHORIZED THE MAYOR TO EXECUTE THE SUBRECIPIENT AGREEMENT; AND, 3) AUTHORIZED THE CITY MANAGER, OR HIS DESIGNEE, TO EXECUTE ANY FUTURE
AMENDMENTS TO THE SUBRECIPIENT AGREEMENT IF DEEMED NECESSARY
8. APPROVED AGREEMENT FOR PRE-ENGINEERED MODULAR BUILDING DESIGN AND
FABRICATION SERVICES FOR THE SPACE SHUTTLE EXHIBIT AND EDUCATION BUILDING PROJECT: Public Works.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1) AWARDED A CONTRACT TO KNIGHT BUILDING SYSTEMS IN THE AMOUNT OF $3,523,627 FOR THE PRE-ENGINEERED BUILDING DESIGN AND FABRICATION
SERVICES FOR THE SPACE SHUTTLE EXHIBIT AND EDUCATION BUILDING PROJECT ("SHUTTLE EXHIBIT PROJECT");
2) AUTHORIZED THE CITY MANAGER OR HIS DESIGNEE TO EXECUTE ANY CHANGE
ORDERS OR ADDITIONAL SCOPE OF WORK FOR THIS SHUTTLE EXHIBIT PROJECT UP TO A 10 PERCENT CONTINGENCY AMOUNT OF $352,627; AND, 3) ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 24-8231, ADOPTING THE FINAL MITIGATED NEGATIVE
DECLARATION (MND) FOR THE SHUTTLE EXHIBIT PROJECT UNDER THE
PROVISIONS OF THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA)
9. APPROVED MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING WITH ROTARY CLUB FOR THE DONATION OF A STREET CLOCK FOR INSTALLATION IN DOWNTOWN DOWNEY:
Administration.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
1) APPROVED A MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING (MOU) WITH THE ROTARY CLUB
FOR THE DONATION OF A STREET CLOCK AND AUTHORIZED THE CITY MANAGER TO SIGN IT; AND,
2) APPROVED THE ADDITION OF THE ROTARY MOTTO OF "SERVICE ABOVE SELF" TO
THE CLOCK FACE
10. APPROVED SPONSORSHIP FOR THE 3RD ANNUAL CHILDREN'S BENEFIT DINNER: Mayor Trujillo.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
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Regular Meeting — February 27, 2024 6
APPROVED THE SPONSORSHIP OF A TABLE FOR THE 3 RD ANNUAL CHILDREN'S BENEFIT DINNER ON MAY 2, 2024
11. SUPPORT LETTER FOR BESO ENTERTAINMENT LLC: Administration.
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL:
APPROVED A SUPPORT LETTER FOR THE APPROVAL OF AN ALCOHOL LICENSE FOR BESO E1.ET.T,"414 ENT LLC
Mayor Pro Tern Sosa adjourned the Regular City Council Meeting — Open Session at 7:28 p.m. in memory of Officers Paul Elmstrand and Matthew Ruge of the Burnsville Police Department, who were fatally shot after responding to a domestic incident call; Trooper First Class Chase Winston Render of the Georgia State Patrol, who was struck by a vehicle while investigating a fatal pedestrian crash scene; and, Deputy Sheriff Charles Rivette of the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office, who was killed in a crash while on duty.
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City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting — February 27, 2024
HECTOR SA
Mayor
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