MINUTES OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
REGULAR MEETING
MARCH 25, 2025
The City Council of the City of Downey held a Regular City Council Meeting — Open Session on March 25, 2025 at 6:33 p.m., in the Council Chambers of the Downey City Hall, 11111 Brookshire Avenue, Downey, California, Mayor Sosa presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members:
Hector Sosa
Dorothy Pemberton
Claudia M. Frometa
Horacio Ortiz
Mario Trujillo
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, Police Chief
Anthony Hildebrand, Fire Chief
Matthew Baumgardner, Public Works Director
James McQueen, Human Resources Director
Irma Huitron, Community Development Director
Jason Chacon, Parks & Recreation Director
Austin Ramirez, Economic Development Director
M. Alicia Duarte, CMC, City Clerk
The Invocation was delivered by Pastor Shane Hicks, Legacy Church of Downey. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Girl Scout Troop 6751.
CITY COUNCIL MEMBER ANNOUNCEMENTS; REQUESTS FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS;
CONFERENCE/MEETING REPORTS
Council Member Trujillo welcomed the audience to the meeting. He highlighted upcoming events, noting that Freestyle artists such as Stevie B and Lisa Lisa will perform at the Downey Theater on May 3 and encouraged residents to attend. Council Member Trujillo thanked the Kiwanis Club for donating a commemorative bench in honor of its 100th Anniversary, now placed outside City Hall for public use.
Council Member Trujillo congratulated Mayor Sosa for hosting the recent nonprofit summit, commending the effort to unite local organizations and create a directory of available community services. He reaffirmed the Council's commitment to public safety as the top priority, followed by essential services for families in need such as food and housing assistance, and encouraged residents to reach out if they need help. Council Member Trujillo announced the Arc Walk and the Vietnam War Veterans Memorial ceremony at City Hall, inviting the community to participate in the events.
Council Member Ortiz welcomed the audience to the meeting and stated that safety remains the number one priority for the City Council. He shared concerns about recent unwanted activity at Golden Park and requested the installation of license plate readers at the Park to enhance security. He also asked that the City's third -party security company be permanently stationed at Golden Park on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights until conditions improve. He requested conducting a crime analysis to City Council Minutes
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determine peak activity times in coordination with the Police Department. The request was seconded by Council Member Frometa. City Manager Bradley responded that the City already has a project underway to install new security cameras at Golden Park, with work scheduled to begin within the next few weeks and completion expected by the end of June. He explained that the cameras will improve monitoring, provide evidence in the event of incidents, and help identify and address unlawful activity in the Park.
Council Member Ortiz thanked City Manager Bradley, Police Chief Loughner, and staff for prioritizing community safety and requested that staff include an analysis for upgrading the playground equipment at Brookshire Park in the upcoming budget cycle. The request was seconded by Council Member Frometa.
Council Member Frometa welcomed the audience to the meeting. She congratulated the students being recognized and shared recent community engagements, including participating in Read Across America at Alameda Elementary and attending the Downey Elks Lodge reopening after more than a year of closure. Council Member Frometa acknowledged the City's many nonprofit organizations and thanked Mayor Sosa for hosting the recent nonprofit summit, noting that a directory of local organizations will help prevent duplication of efforts and strengthen collaboration. Council Member Frometa reported attending the Gateway Cities Council of Governments and the 1-5 Joint Powers Authority meetings. She provided updates on regional transportation efforts and stated that prior concerns about excessive property acquisitions along the I-5 have been resolved and that upcoming community meetings will address plans for the new 605 Freeway HOV lanes. Council Member Frometa discussed the growing concern of homelessness activity throughout the City and stated that she has spoken with the City Manager Bradley to ensure that enforcement efforts continue, including moving individuals out of restricted areas and enforcing no -RV -parking regulations in residential neighborhoods. She thanked staff for the ongoing street repaving projects in District 4 north of Florence Ave. and requested that staff re-examine a portion of Sideview Ave. north of Gallatin Rd., where residents have expressed concern that slurry seal treatment may not be sufficient after many years without reconstruction. City Manager Bradley responded that staff will review the condition of that specific section and report back with an assessment and confirmation of any planned work in the area. Council Member Frometa requested continued code enforcement to address excess trash and debris in shopping centers and around fast-food restaurants, specifically mentioning areas near Florence Ave. and Lakewood Blvd., the Gateway retail center, and Firestone Blvd. and Patton Rd. She urged property owners and management companies to maintain the City's high cleanliness standards.
Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton welcomed the audience to the meeting and congratulated the Warren High CIF Champions, recognizing the dedication of both athletes and their parents. She acknowledged Women's History Month and highlighted the recognition of Kathy Crowe -Perez as Downey's Woman of the Year by Assemblywoman Blanca Pacheco for her contributions through the Downey Conservancy Organization, including organizing the Carpenters' 55th Anniversary event. Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton reminded residents of National Vietnam War Day and provided an update on her participation with the Los Angeles County Vector Control District, advising residents to eliminate standing water to prevent mosquito breeding and to report unmaintained pools to Vector Control. She discussed her work with the SEAACA Board and shared that she requested grant funding to establish a spay and neuter program for cats in Downey. Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton highlighted the approval of the contract for the Downey Ave. paving project from Garfield Ave. to Gallatin Rd. She noted that the project will include new bike lanes and traffic calming measures as part of the City's Bicycle Master Plan, funded through Caltrans and Metro grants. She thanked staff and parking enforcement for addressing trailers and RVs parked on residential streets, reminding residents that RVs may only be parked on the street with a City permit for up to three days and no more than six times per year. She clarified that boats are not allowed on driveways or residential streets. Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton thanked staff for maintenance efforts at Rio Hondo Golf Course and along Old River School Rd., and commended the Police Department, Public Works, and the homeless outreach team for addressing encampments along the riverbed and ensuring bike path safety.
She highlighted upcoming community events including the Downey Theatre's variety of upcoming City Council Minutes
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concerts and encouraged residents to attend. Additionally, she promoted the Keep Downey Beautiful Cleanup event and encouraged students seeking volunteer hours to participate. Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton requested a traffic survey or potential signal installation at Old River School Rd. and Rio Flora St. following multiple traffic accidents at the intersection, citing increased residential traffic from nearby developments. The request was seconded by Council Member Ortiz. She asked staff to ensure that construction trucks from the Olson Condos construction project are routed along Suva St. rather than Guatemala Ave., and to review bridge weight limits on Suva.
Mayor Sosa welcomed the audience to the meeting. Mayor Sosa reported attending the Los Angeles County Sanitation District meeting, and participating in the G.O.O.D. Luncheon, where newly elected District Attorney Nathan Hochman was the guest speaker. He stated that attendees were encouraged by the District Attorney's message and vision for Los Angeles County. Mayor Sosa highlighted the success of the City's first Nonprofit Summit, and explained that the purpose of the Summit was to bring together local nonprofits, School District Representatives, and County agencies to share resources and strengthen collaboration in serving residents. The City will develop a master database on its website listing local organizations, their services, contact information, and eligibility criteria, helping connect families to resources such as housing, food assistance, and domestic violence support. Mayor Sosa announced the upcoming Vietnam War Veterans 50th Anniversary Ceremony at Civic Center, noting that Congressman Robert Garcia will provide commemorative lapel pins to attending Vietnam Veterans.
He further shared that the City was recently awarded $500,000 in Measure A funds from Los Angeles County to support homelessness prevention and response efforts. Mayor Sosa discussed the planned expansion of the Columbia Memorial Space Center, emphasizing its historic role in space exploration and Downey's continued leadership in STEM education. He noted that the Space Shuttle mock-up currently stored on Bellflower Blvd. will be relocated to the Space Center and that Downey has been designated by Los Angeles County as the official host City for the "City of STEM' science festival. He encouraged residents to attend the upcoming festival at Exposition Park, featuring hundreds of booths and educational activities for youth. Mayor Sosa requested that staff coordinate the installation of signage and a community recognition ceremony for the Rolling Green Estates neighborhood near Temple Park, reaffirming its historic designation. The request was seconded by Council Member Frometa.
Council Member Frometa requested that the City and Police Department use social media and other communication platforms to promote a strong public safety message in light of new initiatives from the District Attorney's Office. She emphasized the importance of informing the community that in Downey, individuals who commit crimes will be arrested and prosecuted. Council Member Frometa noted that in previous years, some offenders believed they could steal items under $1,000 without serious consequences and stated that a renewed message of accountability is necessary to deter such activity.
The request was seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton.
CITY MANAGER/STAFF MEMBER COMMENTS
City Manager Bradley stated that staff will follow up on the slurry seal concerns raised by Council Member Frometa regarding the area north of Gallatin Rd. near Sideview Ave. He confirmed that Code Enforcement will inspect commercial areas, including Dollar Tree and the Gateway shopping center, to address issues of trash and debris. Additionally, he noted that staff, along with the Police Department, will review traffic activity through Suva St. and surrounding residential areas to ensure compliance with approved traffic plans. He concluded by stating that there were no further staff remarks.
PRESENTATIONS
1. Mayor's Outstanding Citizen Award to Warren High School Boys Varsity Soccer Team.
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2. Mayor's Outstanding Citizen Award to Warren High School Girls Varsity Soccer Team.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
1. ZONING TEXT AMENDMENT OF THE DOWNEY MUNICIPAL CODE REGULATING ACCESSORY
DWELLING UNITS AND JUNIOR ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS IN ALL RESIDENTIAL ZONES: Community Development.
INTRODUCED AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 9414 AND 9706 OF ARTICLE IX OF
THE DOWNEY MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS AND JUNIOR ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS AND SECTIONS WITHIN CHAPTER 1 OF ARTICLE
IX CONTAINING DEFINITIONS
Mayor Sosa opened the Public Hearing at 7:50 p.m.
City Clerk Duarte affirmed receipt of the Proof of Publication. It was moved by Council Member Frometa, seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton, and carried 5-0, to receive and file the publication.
Community Development Director Irma Huitron introduced the item. She explained that the amendments to the Ordinance are in response to feedback from the State Department of Housing and Community Development regarding the City's previous
.s adopted ordinance. She stated that Senior Planner Abraham Luna would provide an overview of the updated ordinance, outlining how it aligns with current state regulations and summarizing the Planning Commission's action on the matter.
Principal Planner Abraham Luna presented the staff report for Public Hearing Item No. 1, a zoning text amendment (POM 25-00014) updating the City's regulations for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADUs) to ensure compliance with recent state housing laws. He explained that since 2016, 17 state bills have amended ADU requirements, prompting cities to update their local ordinances. He summarized the types of ADUs permitted for single-family and multifamily properties, including conversions of existing space and newly constructed detached units, and reviewed the City's design standards for non-exempt ADUs, such as architectural compatibility, frosted windows, and maximum size limits. Principal Planner Luna noted that the proposed ordinance incorporates feedback from the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD), which identified areas needing revision, including allowable unit types, height measurement, deed restrictions, rent reporting, and design requirements. All have been corrected to align with state law. He added that the ordinance supports the City's Housing Element goal to remove barriers to ADU development and that staff has prepared new educational materials for residents. The Planning Commission reviewed the item on February 19, 2025, and unanimously recommended approval. He concluded by recommending that the City Council introduce the ordinance amending relevant sections of the Downey Municipal Code to ensure full compliance with state regulations.
Council Member Frometa thanked staff for the detailed report and emphasized the importance of keeping the City's standards consistent with state law to avoid confusion. She asked what informational materials would be available to help the public understand the updated ADU requirements. Principal Planner Luna responded that staff has prepared informational handouts addressing common questions such as the number and size of ADUs allowed. He added that a dedicated webpage is being developed for the Planning Division, which will include downloadable materials, links to state resources, and the HCD ADU handbook to assist applicants, designers, and realtors.
Council Member Frometa asked when the ADU informational materials would be completed and whether they would be prominently displayed on the City's website for easy public access. Director City Council Minutes
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Huitron responded that staff plans to launch the materials around the time of the ordinance's second reading, as the updated code will take effect 30 days after adoption. She explained that the educational tools and webpage are already in development and will be published once the ordinance is finalized to align with the implementation timeline.
Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton asked whether Junior ADUs (JADUs) are assigned a valuation on building permits and if their construction affects a property's tax assessment, noting that ADUs typically add significant value and increase the tax base. Principal Planner Luna responded that property tax reassessments are handled by the County Assessor's Office, not the City. He explained that for City purposes, valuations are based solely on construction costs, calculated using a standard cost -per - square -foot rate for the area being converted into a JADU.
Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton asked whether applicants are required to provide valuation information for ADU permits or if the City determines it, noting that other permit types often require applicants to list costs. Principal Planner Luna responded that valuation is calculated by the City based on the square footage shown in the project plans. He explained that Building Division staff input the measurements into the system, which automatically generates the project valuation used for permitting purposes.
Council Member Trujillo asked how utilities such as water, gas, and electricity are handled for ADUs and whether separate connections are required. Director Huitron responded that recent state laws prohibit cities from imposing requirements that create barriers to ADU development, including mandatory separate utility meters. She explained that property owners may choose to install separate meters for tracking or billing purposes, but the City cannot require them. Principal Planner Luna confirmed that newly constructed or converted ADUs are not required to have separate utility connections and may share existing service lines with the primary residence. However, homeowners have the option to install separate meters if they prefer.
Council Member Trujillo asked whether ADUs are required to have separate sewer connections or if they can connect to the existing sewer line of the main residence. Principal Planner Luna responded that ADUs may connect to the existing sewer line on the property, noting that installing a new connection directly to the main public line is significantly costlier and therefore not required.
Mayor Sosa asked City Clerk Duarte if any written public comments were received regarding the Public Hearing item. City Clerk Duarte confirmed no written public comment were received.
Mayor Sosa asked City Clerk Duarte if there was anyone present who would like to comment regarding the Public Hearing item.
B.C., resident, commented in regards to preserving the single-family dwelling neighborhoods.
Michael Turco, resident, commented in opposition to ADU and JADU development in the City.
It was moved by Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton, seconded by Council Member Ortiz, and so ordered by Mayor Sosa, to close the Public Hearing at 8:10 p.m.
It was moved by Council Member Frometa, seconded by Council Member Ortiz, and carried a 5- 0, to introduce an Ordinance Amending Section 9414 and 9706 of Article IX of the Downey Municipal Code relating to Accessory Dwelling Units and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units and Sections within Chapter 1 of Article IX Containing Definitions.
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PUBLIC COMMENT ON AGENDA, CONSENT CALENDAR AND NON -AGENDA ITEMS Mayor Sosa 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 public comment was received.
Martha Torres, commented in regards to the Fair Housing Foundation workshop on April 2.
It was moved by Council Member Frometa, seconded by Council Member Ortiz, and carried 5-0, to receive and file written public comment.
Mayor Sosa asked City Clerk Duarte if there was anyone present who would like to comment regarding Agenda, Consent Calendar and Non -Agenda items.
Act.
Alan Halstensgaard, resident, recited a bible verse.
Jeannie Wood, resident, commented in regards to her volunteerism.
B.C, resident, commented in regards to the Taxpayer Protection and Government Accountability John Lacey, resident, commented regarding the memory of Lorene Parks.
Valerie Esparza, resident, commented in regards to the annual Carnival of Our Lady of Perpetual Help School event.
Michael Chirco, resident, thanked Council for all their efforts.
It was moved by Council Member Frometa, seconded by Council Member Ortiz, and so ordered by Mayor Sosa to close public comment.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Council Member Trujillo abstained from Item Nos. 3 and 6, due to owning property in the Downtown Downey area.
It was moved by Council Member Frometa, seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton, and carried 5-0, to approve the remainder of the Consent Calendar.
2. WARRANTS ISSUED: Warrant Nos. 386639-387110; Payroll Wire Nos. 30004557, 30004559, and 30004560; EFT Nos. 14402-14448; and, Manual Wire Nos. 2658-2659, in the total amount of is $3,850,617.81: Finance.
3. APPROVAL OF A CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT FOR THE DOWNEY AVE. PAVEMENT REHABILITATION PROJECT, CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT (CIP) NO. 23-03: Public Works.
1) AWARDED A CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT TO ONYX PAVING COMPANY, INC. (ONYX), THE LOWEST RESPONSIVE BIDDER FOR THE TOTAL BID AMOUNT OF $2,234,000 FOR THE DOWNEY AVE. PAVEMENT REHABILITATION PROJECT, (CIP) NO. 23-03; AND,
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2) AUTHORIZED THE CITY MANAGER, OR HIS DESIGNEE, TO EXECUTE THE CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT WITH ONYX IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,234,000, INCLUDING UP TO A 15 PERCENT CONTINGENCY, FOR ANY NON -SUBSTANTIVE EXTENSIONS,
CHANGE ORDERS, AND AMENDMENTS UP TO THE AUTHORIZED BUDGET AMOUNT OF $2,569,100
4. APPROVAL OF PLANS, SPECIFICATIONS, AND SOLICITATION FOR CONSTRUCTION BIDS FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 2024-2025 ANNUAL MISCELLANEOUS CONCRETE REPAIRS (COUNCIL DISTRICT 2), AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT (ADA) AND MISCELLANEOUS IMPROVEMENTS (CITYWIDE) PROJECT, CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT (CIP) NO. 25-01,
AND FIND THE PROJECT EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) PURSUANT TO SECTION 15301(C) (EXISTING FACILITIES): Public Works. 1) APPROVED THE PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS, AND AUTHORIZED THE SOLICITATION OF CONSTRUCTION BIDS FOR THE FY 2024-2025 ANNUAL MISCELLANEOUS CONCRETE REPAIRS (COUNCIL DISTRICT 2), AMERICANS WITH
DISABILITIES ACT (ADA), AND MISCELLANEOUS IMPROVEMENTS (CITYWIDE) PROJECT, CIP NO. 25-01; AND,
2) FOUND THAT THE PROJECT IS EXEMPT FROM THE REQUIREMENTS CONTAINED IN CEQA UNDER SECTION 15301(C) (EXISTING FACILITIES)
5. APPROVAL OF A SERVICE AGREEMENT WITH GOGOV, INC. FOR THE NEW CITY MOBILE
APPLICATION AND THE AUTHORIZATION OF AN APPROPRIATION OF FUNDS FOR THE FIRST YEAR OF SERVICE: Administration.
1) APPROVED A SERVICE AGREEMENT WITH GOGOV, INC. FOR ITS CITIZEN
REQUEST MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE AND CITIZEN NOTIFICATIONS AND ALERTS SOFTWARE, FOR A ONE-YEAR TERM BEGINNING MARCH 26, 2026, WITH THE OPTION TO EXTEND TWO ADDITIONAL 12-MONTH PERIODS FOR A TOTAL CONTRACT AMOUNT OF UP TO $91,800; AND,
2) AUTHORIZED AN APPROPRIATION OF FUNDS IN THE AMOUNT OF $30,600 FROM
THE GENERAL FUND BALANCE TO THE CITY MANAGER'S OFFICE'S COMPUTER
SOFTWARE AND LICENSING FUND FOR THE PAYMENT OF THE FIRST YEAR OF
SOFTWARE SERVICES
6. SECOND READING AND ADOPTION OF AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 1 ("TRAFFIC REGULATIONS") OF ARTICLE III ("PUBLIC SAFETY") OF THE DOWNEY MUNICIPAL CODE
TO REGULATE APPROVED USES OF PUBLIC PARKING LOTS AND PUBLIC PARKING STRUCTURES: City Prosecutor.
ADOPTED ORDINANCE NO. 25-1522, AMENDING CHAPTER 1 ("TRAFFIC REGULATIONS") OF ARTICLE III ("PUBLIC SAFETY") OF THE DOWNEY MUNICIPAL CODE TO REGULATE
APPROVED USES OF PUBLIC PARKING LOTS AND PUBLIC PARKING STRUCTURES
7. 2024 GENERAL PLAN AND HOUSING ELEMENT ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORT: Community Development.
RECEIVED AND FILED THE 2024 GENERAL PLAN AND HOUSING ELEMENT ANNUAL
PROGRESS REPORT
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ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
8. UPDATE ON THE CITY'S URBAN FOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN: Public Works.
RECEIVED AND FILED AN INFORMATIONAL UPDATE ON THE CITY'S URBAN FOREST
MANAGEMENT PLAN
Public Works Director Matthew Baumgardner provided the staff report for Item No. 15, an update on the City's Urban Forest Management Plan, noting significant progress in expanding Downey's tree canopy. He reported that the City's inventory has grown from 15,000 trees in 2017 to more than 20,000 today, supported by a $380,000 Cal Fire grant, the adoption of the Urban Forest and Street Tree Master Plans, and partnerships that have added thousands of new trees citywide. He explained that the plan sets a goal of 30,000 public and private trees by 2050 and includes strategies for planting, maintenance, and community engagement such as tree giveaways and Arbor Day events. The City's ordinance also established a tree palette to prevent infrastructure damage and requires a pruning cycle every 24 to 30 months, with tree removal limited to cases of disease, hazard, or damage. Director Baumgardner added that staff continues to fill empty tree wells along major corridors, including Firestone Blvd., Lakewood Blvd., Downey Ave., and Florence Ave., with next year's focus on Paramount Blvd. and Imperial Hwy.
Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton asked about the watering setup for newly planted trees, noting that some trees near Rio Hondo School were drying and had to be watered manually. She asked whether the City uses a watering truck and how long maintenance lasts. Director Baumgardner explained that newly planted trees are manually watered by staff for up to 18 months while their roots establish. He emphasized that overwatering should be avoided since it keeps roots shallow and can cause future infrastructure issues. He added that staff regularly monitors tree health and often partners with nearby residents to assist with watering during the establishment period.
Council Member Frometa asked about the tree planting partnership with Tree People during 2021 and 2022, noting that some residents were unhappy with the trees planted at that time. She inquired whether the City had data on how many trees were removed or replaced due to complaints and emphasized the Council's goal of balancing community satisfaction with maintaining tree coverage.
Director Baumgardner responded that extensive outreach had been conducted before planting, and some residents chose to opt out of receiving a tree in front of their homes, which accounted for some empty areas. He acknowledged that a few trees were replaced at residents' requests, often due to poor establishment or early growth issues, but overall, the program included opportunities for residents to provide input and decline participation if they wished.
Council Member Trujillo asked what reasons residents typically give for not wanting trees planted in front of their homes. Director Baumgardner noted that concerns are often related to maintenance issues such as falling leaves, fruit, or debris that can create extra cleanup or affect parked cars, referencing examples like liquid amber and palm trees.
Council Member Trujillo asked whether the City's approved tree palette includes species that drop excessive leaves or debris. Director Baumgardner responded that the trees currently selected are chosen specifically to minimize leaf or fruit drop. He added that while the newer species are lower -maintenance, some residents may still perceive normal leaf shedding as a nuisance over time.
Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton commented that some residents fear tree roots might invade their sewer or water lines. Director Baumgardner explained that this concern is mostly a misconception and that proper tree selection and planting methods prevent such issues. He noted that education about root City Council Minutes
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growth and maintenance helps residents understand that the approved tree species will not damage underground utilities.
Council Member Frometa asked about the City's enforcement policies and fines for residents who remove mature trees without proper authorization. She referenced prior Council discussions about preserving Downey's tree canopy and asked for clarification on current penalties under the City's ordinance. City Manager Bradley responded that the Municipal Code classifies unlawful tree removal as a misdemeanor, subject to fines of up to $1,000. He added that the City may also seek reimbursement for the value of the removed tree. He explained that staff generally works with residents through education and on -site assessments by the City's arborist to address concerns about tree maintenance, costs, or potential impacts on infrastructure, but confirmed that penalties apply when trees are intentionally removed or damaged without approval.
Council Member Frometa asked whether the City had used social media to educate residents about the importance of tree preservation, suggesting that spring would be an ideal time to promote awareness and maintenance reminders. City Manager Bradley responded that, to his knowledge, no recent social media campaign had been conducted. He agreed that with Earth Day approaching, it would be a good opportunity to share educational posts and increase public outreach on the City's tree initiatives.
Council Member Ortiz asked whether the misdemeanor penalties apply when a resident removes a tree from their private property or only when the tree is City -owned. City Manager Bradley clarified that the penalties apply specifically to City -owned trees located in public rights -of -way. Trees on private property are the responsibility of the property owner and are not subject to those same penalties.
Council Member Ortiz asked how residents can tell whether a tree in front of their home is City owned. Director Baumgardner explained that City owned trees are typically located in the four to five-foot parkway area between the sidewalk and the street. He added that most residents recognize these trees as City owned since they see contractors trimming them every couple of years, and there is generally little confusion about ownership.
Director Baumgardner concluded his presentation by discussing the City's ongoing and future efforts for tree management. He stated that staff is working with contractors to update the City's tree inventory and Geographic Information System (GIS) to better track maintenance and ensure a balanced variety of tree species across different areas. The updated system will help prevent overplanting of the same species and improve long-term planning. He explained that the Urban Forest Management Plan divides the City into several maintenance districts, which guide pruning and planting schedules. Staff plans to pursue new Cal Fire grants and continue partnerships with organizations such as Tree People and the Los Angeles Conservation Corps to support the City's goal of planting 30,000 public and private trees by 2050. Director Baumgardner noted that approximately $1,000,000 in grant and partnership funding has already been used to plant about 3,300 trees, and staff will continue seeking similar opportunities to expand tree planting along major corridors and in neighborhoods.
Council Member Trujillo thanked staff for the presentation and emphasized the health benefits of expanding the City's tree canopy. He noted that Downey is surrounded by four freeways, making air quality a significant concern, and highlighted that planting trees plays an important role in improving air health. He expressed appreciation for the City's continued efforts to grow its urban forest and commended staff for their progress.
It was moved by Council Member Frometa, seconded by Council Member Trujillo, and carried a 5-0, to receive and file the update on the City's urban forest management plan.
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9. DISCUSSION REGARDING THE DOWNTOWN DOWNEY GATEWAY SIGN CONCEPTUAL DESIGN: Administration.
DISCUSSED AND PROVIDED DIRECTION TO STAFF REGARDING THE DOWNTOWN
DOWNEY GATEWAY SIGN CONCEPTUAL DESIGN
Council Member Trujillo abstained from Item No. 9, due to owning property in the Downtown Downey area and left the Council meeting at 8:51 p.m.
Assistant City Manager Vaniah De Rojas presented the staff report for Item No. 9, regarding the Downtown Gateway Sign conceptual design. She explained that in May 2023, the City Council directed staff to pursue design services for a gateway sign at the intersection of Firestone Blvd. and Downey Ave., serving as a key entry point to the Downtown area. Following a request for proposals in January 2024, the City received one qualified submission from Graphic Solutions, which was selected based on experience and approach. Assistant City Manager De Rojas outlined the design development process, which included input from the Downtown Downey Improvement Association and the Downtown Subcommittee. Feedback focused on achieving a modern, timeless design that complements the City's existing branding and infrastructure. The final concept features contemporary silver lettering, low -voltage LED illumination, and a color scheme consistent with existing streetlights and entry markers. The design was also reviewed to ensure compatibility with seasonal decorations and community events. She explained that the project would proceed in four phases: design approval, site study and construction documents, bid and award, and construction. The total project cost is estimated between $250,000 and $300,000, with $25,000 allocated for design and construction documents. Funding will come from the Arts and Public Places Fund, which is restricted for use on public art projects.
Council Member Ortiz expressed pride in the collaborative work on the Gateway Sign project. He asked whether the "X" pattern behind the word "Downey" in the conceptual design could be removed.
Assistant City Manager De Rojas responded that this change could be considered during the final design development phase.
Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton suggested adding more color or incorporating the Downtown Downey District logo into the Gateway Sign design to give it additional character. She asked for clarification on the colors used, noting that the lettering appeared white in the presentation. Assistant City Manager De Rojas explained that the sign structure will be gray to match the light posts along Downey Ave., while the lettering itself will be white.
Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton asked why the design discussions did not include the City's signature orange color or the Downtown Downey logo, suggesting that a small emblem or accent could enhance the gateway sign's appearance.
Council Member Ortiz explained that the design team chose to keep the sign clean and timeless so it would remain compatible with future updates to City or Downtown branding without creating conflicts.
Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton asked whether the back of the Gateway Sign, facing south, would display a "Leaving Downtown Downey" message. Assistant City Manager De Rojas responded that it would not, explaining that the Downtown Subcommittee discussed alternative ways to express appreciation to visitors, such as placing "Thank you for visiting Downey" signage at parking structure exits and other key areas within Downtown Downey.
Mayor Sosa commented that adding lettering on the back of the Gateway Sign would interfere with the design. He noted that as a member of the Downtown Subcommittee, he and Council Member Ortiz reviewed several design concepts and incorporated input from the Downtown Downey Improvement City Council Minutes
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Association. Early designs attempted to reflect Downey's aerospace history but became overly complex.
He stated that the final version achieves a clean, timeless, and modern look that will remain appealing for decades.
Council Member Ortiz noted that while the Arts and Public Places Fund is currently being used primarily for Downtown projects, he would like to see future art installations, such as murals, distributed throughout all Council districts in the City. He asked how that process would work and whether it required Council approval. Assistant City Manager De Rojas responded that expanding art projects citywide would be addressed in a separate discussion. She added that funds will remain available after completing the Downtown projects, including the gateway sign, murals, and utility box art. She noted that the upcoming Strategic Plan includes developing an Arts and Cultural Master Plan to identify additional locations for public art across the City.
It was moved by Council Member Frometa, seconded by Council Member Ortiz, and carried 4-0, with Council Member Trujillo, absent, to approve the Downtown Downey Gateway Sign Conceptual Design without the X's.
ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Sosa adjourned the Regular City Council Meeting — Open Session at 9:06 p.m. in memory Sergeant Joseph Anthony Azcona, 26, 5-year veteran of the Newark Police Division, who passed away while investigating an illegal weapons possession call; and, Deputy Sheriff Hector Cuevas Jr., 36, 6-year veteran of the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department, who passed away during a high-speed pursuit accident.
A I ALICIA D R C
City Clerk
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0 r- 7
HECTOR SOSA `
Mayor