MINUTES OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
REGULAR MEETING
SEPTEMBER 9, 2025
The City Council of the City of Downey held a Regular City Council Meeting - Open Session on September 9, 2025, at 5:34 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 M. Funk, City Attorney
James McQueen, Human Resources Director
M. Alicia Duarte, CMC, City Clerk
PUBLIC COMMENT ON CLOSED SESSION AGENDA ITEMS
Mayor Sosa 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 Sosa asked if there was anyone present who would like to comment on Closed Session items.
Having none, Mayor Sosa closed public comment.
RECESSED TO CLOSED SESSION
Mayor Sosa announced the City Council is recessing to Closed Session at 5:36 p.m. to discuss matters under the authority of the following sections of the Government Code:
Government Code Section 54956.95 - Liability Claim - Workers' Compensation Claim - Claimant:
Salvatore Piscitelli - Claim No.: 23-174876 - Agency claimed against: City of Downey.
2. Government Code Section 54957.6 - Conference with labor negotiator James McQueen, Director of Human Resources re: direction for labor negotiations with Downey Firemen's Association, Downey Fire Management Association and Downey Police Officers' Association.
3. Government Code Sections 54956.9(d)(2) and (e)(3) - Conference with Legal Counsel - Anticipated Litigation - Significant exposure to litigation pursuant to the attached letter (without exhibits) from Matthew Jacobs, Counsel for Dollar Tree Stores, Inc. dated June 24, 2025, letter and exhibits are available for public inspection at the City Clerk's Office at 11111 Brookshire Avenue during normal City business hours.
City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting - September 9, 2025
RECONVENED REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING — CLOSED SESSION Mayor Sosa reconvened the Regular City Council Meeting — Closed Session at 6:39 p.m.
City Attorney Funk reported the Closed Session report as follows: In regards to Item Nos. 1, 2, and 3, no reportable action was taken.
The City Council of the City of Downey held a Regular City Council Meeting — Open Session on September 09, 2025 at 6:41 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 Tem
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 David Beary, First Presbyterian Church. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Boy Scout Pack 805.
CITY COUNCIL MEMBER ANNOUNCEMENTS; REQUESTS FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS;
CONFERENCE/MEETING REPORTS
Council Member Frometa welcomed the audience to the meeting. She reminded residents that September is Disaster Preparedness Month and encouraged households to maintain emergency kits.
She recognized September as Suicide Prevention Month and urged the community to connect individuals in need with available mental -health resources. Council Member Frometa announced the City's September 11th Remembrance Ceremony and highlighted additional upcoming community events, including El Grito at the Downey Theatre and the I Love Downey Festival. She recognized several attendees, including Commissioners Carrie Uva and Jeannie Wood, and Michael Calvert. She concluded by expressing appreciation to the Police and Fire Departments for their ongoing service and commitment to keeping the community safe.
Council Member Ortiz welcomed the audience to the meeting. He recognized the Police Department for its recent street -racing enforcement operation. He noted that speeding continues to be a major community concern and expressed appreciation for the Police Department's proactive efforts. He City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting — September 9, 2025 2
announced the opening of Downey's first Korean barbecue restaurant, "Let's Gogi," and encouraged residents to support local businesses.
Council Member Trujillo reported attending the Theater Subcommittee meeting and encouraged the community to attend upcoming events at the Downey Theatre, including El Grito festivities and the Downey Symphony. He provided updates from the Gateway Cities Council of Governments meeting focused on the 91, 605, and 405 corridors, noting the completion of the expanded off -ramps to the Cerritos Mall, which should ease traffic on the southbound 605. He announced the reopening of "Buena Mesa" restaurant on Florence Ave. Council Member Trujillo requested staff review and address the condition of the historic space-themed tiles at the Downey Landing. The request was seconded by Council Member Frometa. He requested a traffic safety review on Gallatin Rd. near Lakewood Blvd. following a recent fatal collision, asking staff to consider whether bollards or other improvements are warranted. The request was seconded by Council Member Frometa.
Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton welcomed the audience to the meeting. She reported attending a regional retreat with City Manager Bradley and representatives from approximately 25 Gateway Cities, where they received updates on major transportation and regional projects and discussed opportunities for federal and state funding. She noted ongoing Caltrans work converting the 1-105 Fwy carpool lane into a fast -track lane, the Los Angeles (L.A.) River Path Project to complete a continuous 32-mile bike path, and planning for the Southeast Gateway Light Rail Project from Norwalk Blvd. to Slauson Ave., with a future extension to Union Station. She highlighted funding efforts to expand bus shelters, including locations near the 1-105 Fwy and Lakewood Blvd., and discussed the City's increased contracting for additional beds at Bell Shelter and continued collaboration with City Net for homeless outreach. She announced the Marinelli Brothers Circus at Stonewood Mall and highlighted several items on the Consent Calendar, including a construction contract to Toro Enterprises to repave 38 alleys as phase one of the alley rehabilitation program, a memorandum of understanding with Downey Unified School District (DUSD) to expand the Downey One Card Library access program, and a pilot valet parking program at Downey Ave. and Second St. She acknowledged the Police Department's recent speeding enforcement efforts. Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton requested a review of street sweeping services due to concerns that debris is not being adequately collected. The request was seconded by Council Member Ortiz. She concluded by announcing a Downey Symphony fundraising event at the Women's Club.
Council Member Ortiz reported that Golden Park is undergoing several security upgrades and facility improvements, including the addition of a second dog park. He announced two upcoming community meetings for residents to receive updates and provide input: one on September 28, and October 1. He encouraged residents to attend and noted that he will be present with City Staff to share information about ongoing improvements at Golden Park.
Mayor Sosa welcomed the audience to the meeting. He reported attending a successful Coffee with a Cop event at Norms and thanked Downey PD for continuing to create casual, community -focused opportunities for public interaction. He attended the Contract Cities Fall Education Summit, where sessions covered housing trust issues, public safety partnerships for particularly for cities contracting with the L.A. County Sheriff's Department, and a nonpartisan review of Proposition 50. He highlighted upcoming community events, including Havana Nights on Downey Ave. with live music and dancing, and Coffee with the Mayor at the Columbia Memorial Space Center, which serves as an annual town hall opportunity for updates and community dialogue. He added that the State of the City address will take place later in October.
CITY MANAGER/STAFF MEMBER COMMENTS
City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting — September 9, 2025
City Manager Bradley reported staff has begun working with the property owner to address the maintenance and repair of the space history tiles at the Downey Landing, as previously requested by Council Member Trujillo. {
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Council Member Trujillo announced that the Downey Police Department is recruiting and will hold a testing day on October 11. Applicants who pass the initial test will be able to complete the physical agility test, written exam, and oral interview on the same day. Police Chief Loughner confirmed the process, noting the goal is to streamline hiring by consolidating all testing into one day and beginning background checks the following week, with anticipated start dates in early January or February. Council Member Trujillo encouraged anyone interested in a law enforcement career to apply and highlighted the strength of the Downey Police Department.
PRESENTATIONS:
1. Mayor's Outstanding Citizen Award to Georgeanne Bruce.
2. Mayor's Outstanding Citizen Award to Angeles Sin Limites.
3. Certificate of Appointment to Ernesto Valle, Independent Citizens' Oversight Committee, Council District 5.
4. Proclamation in honor of United States Air Force 78th Birthday.
5. Proclamation in honor of National Preparedness Month.
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.
Michael Waushchek, body of the email was blank.
It was moved by Council Member Frometa, seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton, 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.
B.C., resident, commented in regards to the bike lane that was added to Downey Ave.
John Lacey, resident, commented regarding the need for immigration law reform.
It was moved by Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton, seconded by Council Member Frometa, and so ordered by Mayor Sosa to close public comment.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Council Member Trujillo abstained from Item No. 10, due to owning property in the Downtown Downey area.
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Regular Meeting — September 9, 2025 4
Mayor Sosa abstained from Item No. 4, due to owning property in the project area.
It was moved by Council Member Frometa, seconded by Council Member Trujillo, and carried 5- 0, to approve the Consent Calendar.
1. APPROVED MINUTES: Regular Meetings of May 14, 2024 and October 8, 2024: City Clerk.
2. WARRANTS ISSUED: Warrant Nos. 391639-392050; Payroll Wire Nos. 30004608, 30004609, 30004611-30004614; EFT Nos. 14959-15006; and, Manual Wire Nos. 2725-2731, in the total amount of $6,668,553.05: Finance.
ACCEPTANCE OF WORK FOR WELL NO. 9 REHABILITATION, CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT (CIP) NO. 23-30: Public Works.
1) ACCEPTED THE WORK FOR WELL NO. 9 REHABILITATION, CIP NO. 23-30; 2) APPROVED THE FINAL CONTRACT AMOUNT OF $264,900; AND, 3) AUTHORIZED THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS/CITY ENGINEER TO FILE A NOTICE
OF COMPLETION
4. AWARD OF CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT FOR THE ALLEYS PAVEMENT REHABILITATION PROJECT, CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT (CIP) NO. 24-03: Public Works. 1) AWARDED A CONTRACT TO THE LOWEST RESPONSIVE AND RESPONSIBLE BIDDER, TORO ENTERPRISES, INC. IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,429,222 FOR THE ALLEYS
PAVEMENT REHABILITATION PROJECT, CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM (CIP) NO. 24-03; AND,
2) AUTHORIZED THE CITY MANAGER, OR HIS DESIGNEE, TO EXECUTE THE CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT WITH TORO ENTERPRISES, INC. IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,429,222, INCLUDING ANY NON -SUBSTANTIVE EXTENSIONS, CHANGE ORDERS,
PURCHASE ORDERS, AND AMENDMENTS UP TO THE AUTHORIZED BUDGET AMOUNT OF $3,264,941
5. APPROVAL OF PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS AND AUTHORIZATION TO SOLICIT FOR CONSTRUCTION BIDS FOR THE FOSTER RD. AND CARFAX AVE. STORM DRAIN IMPROVEMENTS, CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT (CIP) NO. 24-23, AND FINDING THE
PROJECT EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) PURSUANT TO SECTION 15302 CLASS 2(C): Public Works.
APPROVED THE PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS, AND AUTHORIZED THE SOLICITATION OF CONSTRUCTION BIDS FOR THE FOSTER RD. AND CARFAX AVE. STORM DRAIN IMPROVEMENTS, CIP NO. 24-23 AND FURTHER FIND THAT THE PROJECT IS EXEMPT FROM THE REQUIREMENTS CONTAINED IN CEQA UNDER SECTION 15302 CLASS 2(C)
6. APPROVAL OF THE 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 NOT TO EXCEED AMOUNT OF $314,692
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Regular Meeting — September 9, 2025 5
7. AUTHORIZATION TO PURCHASE 20 TASER MODEL X26P CONDUCTED ENERGY DEVICES:
Police.
1) APPROVED THE PURCHASE OF 20 TASER MODEL X26P CONDUCTED ENERGY DEVICES AND ACCESSORIES IN THE AMOUNT OF $33,737 FROM PROFORCE LAW ENFORCEMENT; AND,
2) AUTHORIZED AN APPROPRIATION OF $33,737 FROM MEASURE S CAPITAL FUND 33 EXPENSE ACCOUNT NUMBER 33-4-2110-0950, FOR THIS PURCHASE
8. APPROVAL OF A SERVICE AGREEMENT WITH COMMLINE, INC. FOR GENERAL TECHNICAL SUPPORT OF RADIO COMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT: Fire.
AUTHORIZED THE CITY MANAGER, OR HIS DESIGNEE, TO EXECUTE THE SERVICE CONTRACT WITH COMMLINE, INC. FOR GENERAL TECHNICAL SUPPORT OF RADIO COMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT FOR A THREE-YEAR TERM BEGINNING ON JULY 1, 2025 FOR A TOTAL CONTRACT AMOUNT OF $150,483
9. APPROVAL OF A MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE CITY OF DOWNEY
AND THE DOWNEY UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT TO RENEW AND EXPAND THE DOWNEY ONE CARD PROGRAM: Library.
1) APPROVED THE MOU BETWEEN THE CITY OF DOWNEY AND THE DOWNEY UNIFIED
SCHOOL DISTRICT THAT RENEWS AND EXPANDS THE DOWNEY ONE CARD PROGRAM; AND,
2) AUTHORIZED THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE ALL AMENDMENTS TO THE MOU
10. APPROVAL OF A LICENSE AGREEMENT FOR A PILOT VALET PARKING SERVICES PROGRAM IN DOWNTOWN DOWNEY: Administration.
APPROVED THE LICENSE AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF DOWNEY AND HERITTAGE HOLDINGS INC., DBA SUPREME PARKING SERVICE, FOR VALET PARKING SERVICES IN DOWNTOWN DOWNEY FOR A PERIOD OF SIX (6) MONTHS
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
11. DISCUSSION REGARDING A CAT SPAY AND NEUTER REBATE PROGRAM: Administration. 1) DISCUSSED A CAT SPAY AND NEUTER REBATE PROGRAM AND PROVIDED STAFF WITH DIRECTION ON THE CREATION OF SUCH PROGRAM WITHIN THE CITY; AND, 2) IF APPROVED, APPROPRIATE UP TO $20,000 FROM THE GENERAL FUND - FUND BALANCE TO IMPLEMENT A CAT SPAY AND NEUTER REBATE PROGRAM.
Assistant to the City Manager Juddy Montenegro provided the staff report for Item No. 11. She provided a proposed Cat Spay and Neuter Rebate Program intended to promote responsible pet ownership, improve animal health and safety, and reduce cat overpopulation within the City. Ms.
Montenegro explained that spaying and neutering help prevent unwanted litters, reduce the number of stray cats, mitigate risks such as disease and injury, and are associated with longer and healthier lives for cats. At the request of Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton, staff researched similar programs in neighboring City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting — September 9, 2025
cities, including Santa Fe Springs, Paramount, Norwalk, and Bell Gardens, following direction provided during the June Budget Workshop. Based on this research, staff developed a proposed program offering one-time rebates of up to $200 per household to assist residents with the cost of spay or neuter procedures for household cats. Ms. Montenegro noted that the Council may wish to consider whether to expand eligibility to include feral or stray cats, also referred to as community cats. She summarized concerns raised by other cities regarding inclusion of feral cats, including rapid depletion of funds, potential liability issues when cats may have owners, and challenges associated with ownership and adoption. As a result, comparable programs generally limit eligibility to household cats. Proposed eligibility criteria include Downey residency, completion of the procedure within 60 days of application, use of a licensed veterinary facility, submission of an itemized receipt, and a limit of one rebate per household. The rebate would not cover costs beyond the $200 maximum or additional services. Pet licensing would not be required, as licensing requirements apply only to dogs under the Municipal Code.
The program would operate on a first -come, first -served basis until funds are exhausted. Applications would be available at City Hall and online, with an anticipated processing time of approximately 30 days.
If approved, staff would coordinate with the City's public information team to advertise the program and target a launch date of October 1. Staff requested Council direction on the proposed program and authorization to appropriate up to $20,000 from the General Fund reserve balance to fund the rebates.
Mayor Pro Tem Pemberton emphasized that the City is facing a long standing and widespread cat overpopulation problem, particularly involving feral and community cats, which residents have raised concerns about for years. Drawing on her research, visits to shelters, and her current service as a commissioner with SEAACA, she explained that unmanaged cat populations also contribute to secondary issues such as increased coyote activity, as cats serve as a food source. She noted that while dog spay and neuter programs are well supported through free services, partnerships, and mobile clinics, there is no comparable program currently available for cats, despite the fact that cats are generally not impounded unless injured or very young. As a result, residents and volunteer Trap Neuter Return (TNR) organizations are left without financial support and often must travel long distances to obtain low cost services. She referenced the former Big Meow program, which helped reduce cat populations but was discontinued after limited grant funding was exhausted. Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton cited neighboring cities that have implemented spay and neuter rebate programs, many of which include feral cats, and explained that these programs were created in response to numerous community complaints. She stressed that excluding feral and community cats would fail to address the root cause of overpopulation, noting that indoor household cats are not the primary source of the issue. She requested that the City establish a comprehensive spay and neuter rebate program that includes both household and community cats, removes the one cat per household limitation, does not impose income restrictions, and allows procedures to be performed by licensed veterinarians or animal hospitals. She expressed support for a reimbursement -based model that would allow residents and TNR groups to use their own veterinarians and suggested exploring future partnerships with nonprofit mobile spay and neuter providers.
Council Member Frometa acknowledged the seriousness of the City's cat overpopulation issue but raised concerns about moving forward with a rebate pilot without clearer data. She noted that Downey is a founding member of SEAACA and that the City's annual contribution has increased significantly in the most recent fiscal year. Given that level of investment, she questioned why SEAACA does not currently have sufficient funding to provide cat spay and neuter services for its core member cities and requested information on how many Downey residents have specifically sought these services. She emphasized the importance of understanding the demonstrated need before appropriating $20,000 for a pilot program and suggested that limits such as a cap on the number of cats per household and income eligibility requirements should be considered. She expressed concern about including feral cats due to the lack of licensing or ownership identification. In response, Ms. Montenegro explained that SEAACA does not track data by individual City and therefore could not provide statistics specific to Downey residents requesting cat spay or neuter services. She stated that SEAACA has reported general interest in reviving the Big Meow program but does not maintain city specific data. Assistant City Manager De City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting - September 9, 2025 7
Rojas added that staff followed up directly with SEAACA and confirmed that no such tracking exists. She noted that, unlike neighboring cities that created programs after receiving numerous direct calls and emails from residents, the City of Downey has received limited direct inquiries, including approximately four emails over the past year and some social media comments regarding cat overpopulation. Assistant City Manager further clarified that the Big Meow program remains on hold due to the loss of grant funding.
The most recent available data from 2023 showed that SEAACA facilitated approximately 225 cat spay and neuter procedures, of which 47 involved cats from Downey. She noted that this was the only concrete data point available to estimate potential local demand, as no additional records or statistics exist.
Council Member Frometa sought clarification on the data presented, asking whether the 225 cats referenced were from the 2023 year and noting that 47 of those cats were from Downey, representing approximately 21 % of the total. Assistant City Manager De Rojas confirmed that the figures reflected activity from 2023.
Council Member Frometa acknowledged that there is a clear need to address cat overpopulation in the City and expressed support for allowing up to two cats per household under the proposed program.
However, she raised reservations about including feral or community cats, noting concerns about encouraging residents to actively seek out such cats for spay and neuter services and the uncertainty surrounding ownership and origin.
Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton reiterated that the City's cat overpopulation issue is driven by uncontrolled breeding among community and feral cats and cannot be resolved solely by limiting assistance to responsible household pet owners. She emphasized that spay and neuter programs are the only effective means of reducing the overall population and noted that other cities have already implemented such efforts. She stated that while restarting the Big Meow program could be explored in the future if funding becomes available, the immediate goal is to begin addressing the problem now and to provide residents with a tangible resource. She described widespread public requests for help through social media and stressed that the City has not previously been able to respond meaningfully to those concerns. Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton characterized the proposed program as a starting point or pilot that would support individuals and organizations already doing the on the ground work to reduce overpopulation. She noted that the funding may or may not be fully expended, but providing some level of assistance would empower community efforts and represent a reasonable and necessary step toward addressing the issue.
Council Member Ortiz expressed support for allowing more than one cat per household under the program, suggesting a higher limit such as three or four cats. He sought clarification on the requirement that spay or neuter procedures be performed within 60 days of the application date, asking whether applicants would need to apply before the procedure. Ms. Montenegro clarified that, similar to the City's Home Security Rebate program, applicants would be required to submit their application within 60 days after the procedure is completed. She explained that as long as the spay or neuter occurred within the 60-day window prior to the application date, the applicant would remain eligible for the rebate.
Council Member Ortiz suggested shortening the application window from 60 days to 30 days, explaining that a shorter timeframe could help discourage residents from actively seeking out cats solely to obtain the rebate while still allowing sufficient time to apply.
Council Member Frometa stated that while she agreed with the importance of responsible pet ownership and acknowledged that roaming and feral cats are the source of the overpopulation problem, she expressed concern about potential liability associated with encouraging residents to capture community or feral cats for spay and neuter services. She cautioned that these cats often have no identifiable owner and that encouraging community members to intervene could expose the City to legal and ethical concerns. City Manager Bradley responded by explaining that some animal welfare advocates City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting — September 9, 2025 8
consider the practice of capturing, altering, and returning feral cats to be inhumane, and that at least one public agency has faced legal action related to this issue. He noted that this risk has made animal shelters and related organizations cautious when designing such programs. Assistant City Manager De Rojas added that these liability concerns are one reason programs such as SEAACA's Big Meow initiative were limited to owned cats. She explained that restricting eligibility helps reduce exposure to legal challenges while still supporting responsible pet ownership.
Mayor Sosa expressed the view that cat spay and neuter services should be provided through SEAACA rather than funded directly by the City, noting that member cities collectively contribute to the agency. He requested data to support the need for a City funded program and asked when SEAACA might realistically reinstate the Big Meow program and what that program would include.
Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton explained that the City currently lacks any local resource to assist residents and TNR volunteers who are already humanely addressing the cat overpopulation issue. She stated that there is little incentive for residents to capture cats solely for reimbursement and emphasized that these efforts are driven by community members committed to animal welfare. She acknowledged that SEAACA could be approached in the future during the budget process, but noted that its current budget would not support reinstating the Big Meow program in the near future. Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton advocated for launching a City pilot program to provide immediate assistance, allow flexibility in the number of cats addressed per household, and support timely action to reduce cat overpopulation and related coyote activity. She emphasized that a pilot would allow the City to respond to current community needs while longer term options with SEAACA are explored.
Council Member Frometa expressed support for initiating a limited pilot program funded at $10,000, acknowledging the need to begin addressing the issue while keeping the scope restrained.
Drawing on her experience serving on the SEAACA Board, she noted that while the agency began as a boutique organization for core cities and has since expanded to include contracted cities, it is not a County agency and faces its own operational and labor constraints. She stated that core cities should ultimately have resources available to address issues such as cat overpopulation, but agreed with Mayor Sosa that any City funded pilot should be modest in scale. Council Member Frometa indicated her support for a pilot program limited to two cats per household and aligned with SEAACA's and other cities' practices by excluding community or feral cats.
Mayor Sosa asked whether there are any agencies or cities that specifically address feral cats through spay and neuter programs. Ms. Montenegro responded that the cities reviewed as part of staff's research, including Santa Fe Springs, Paramount, Norwalk, and Bell Gardens, all limit their programs to household or domestic cats and do not include feral cats.
Council Member Ortiz asked how pet ownership is verified for cats under spay and neuter rebate programs, specifically questioning how a pet license would be used to determine eligibility. Ms.
Montenegro responded that most cities do not require a pet license for cats. She explained that Santa Fe Springs is the only city reviewed that requires pet licenses because it operates a combined dog and cat program, and verification for cats is based on the applicant's residency information and a veterinary invoice showing a matching name and address.
Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton responded that according to the comparison chart, both Paramount and Norwalk do allow feral cats in their programs.
Mayor Sosa suggested that, before allocating City funds, the Council should request that SEAACA initiate or reinstate a cat spay and neuter program. He noted that such a request would be within the Council's discretion and could be pursued through the City's SEAACA representative, Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton.
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Regular Meeting - September 9, 2025 9
Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton noted that SEAACA's newly adopted budget includes significant capital and facility costs, making it unlikely that the agency could implement such a program in the current year. She explained that SEAACA's current budget constraints are why other cities have already established their own programs.
Council Member Frometa proposed approving half of the recommended funding as a pilot program in order to assess community response and actual demand. She clarified that the pilot would exclude feral cats, increase eligibility to two cats per household, and remove the pet license requirement, which she noted had been included in error.
Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton questioned the decision to exclude feral cats from the proposed pilot program, stating that feral and community cats are the primary source of the overpopulation problem.
She asked whether removing them would meaningfully address the issue.
Council Member Frometa responded by reiterating her position that the pilot should mirror the Big Meow program and exclude feral cats, citing concerns previously discussed regarding scope and liability, while still allowing the City to take an initial step in addressing the issue.
Council Member Trujillo stated that pet owners should be responsible for the cost of spaying and neutering their own household cats and expressed concern about using taxpayer funds for that purpose.
He acknowledged the broader community issue posed by feral or community cats and agreed with Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton that unmanaged feral cats are the primary driver of overpopulation.
City Manager Bradley summarized the proposed parameters discussed by the Council, noting a pilot allocation of up to $10,000, a limit of two cats per household, and the exclusion of feral cats from the program.
Council Member Frometa suggested pausing the program to allow time to gather additional information on whether SEAACA has funding available or plans to reinstate the Big Meow program with inclusion of feral cats.
Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton stated that she has an upcoming SEAACA meeting and will raise the issue with other member cities, including exploring whether funding options are available. She emphasized that any effective approach must include feral cats, noting that excluding them would not address the underlying overpopulation problem.
Council Member Frometa stated that she would like clarification on SEAACA's position and the collective stance of its member cities, expressing concern about using City funds.
Council Member Trujillo asked whether there are any grant programs available to address feral cat populations and whether other cities have successfully used such funding. City Manager Bradley responded that staff does not currently have that information and indicated that SEAACA would be the appropriate source to consult, given its expertise in animal control and related funding opportunities.
Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton shared that she attended the opening of a large nonprofit organization in Long Beach that operates a grant funded spay and neuter program with its own veterinary services.
She noted that the program focuses on neighborhood cats and is able to process approximately 100 cats per week, highlighting it as a successful and impactful model that impressed her.
Mayor Sosa expressed concern about proceeding with City funding before fully exploring whether SEAACA could address the issue or reinstate the Big Meow program. He noted that while a $10,000 or $20,000 allocation is not significant on its own, such expenditures accumulate over time. He emphasized City Council Minutes
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the need for fiscal caution, particularly in light of ongoing collective bargaining negotiations and broader budget considerations.
Council Member Frometa withdrew her previously stated motion.
Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton requested that the item be brought back for consideration the following month, stating that she would conduct additional due diligence by speaking with SEAACA member cities and the agency's Director regarding the potential reinstatement of the Big Meow program and available funding options. She emphasized coordinating with the member cities on a possible regional approach.
Mayor Sosa thanked Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton for her research and advocacy on the issue but reiterated his desire to ensure that all available resources are fully explored before the City makes any funding commitment.
Council Member Trujillo requested that staff obtain information from SEAACA explaining why the Big Meow program excluded feral cats. He stated that understanding SEAACA's rationale would be important, noting his agreement with Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton that addressing feral cats is key to reducing overall cat overpopulation.
Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton explained that standard veterinary protocols for owned cats often require blood work, vaccination history, and follow up visits, which are not practical for feral or nonsocial community cats that are typically trapped and cannot be housed for extended periods. She noted that the inability to hold feral cats for lengthy evaluations is a key reason why traditional protocols are often bypassed when addressing community cats.
It was moved by Mayor Sosa, seconded by Council Member Frometa, and carried 5-0, to defer the discussion, potentially to the next scheduled City Council meeting.
12. DISCUSSION REGARDING BEAUTIFICATION OF INTERSECTION MEDIAN AT DOWNEY AVE., NEW ST., AND 6T" ST.: Public Works.
1) DISCUSSED THE OPTIONS FOR BEAUTIFYING THE RAISED MEDIAN LOCATED AT THE INTERSECTION OF DOWNEY AVE., NEW ST., AND 6T" ST.; AND, 2) PROVIDED DIRECTION ON OPTIONS FOR ADDING A MONUMENT SIGN WITHIN THE
RAISED MEDIAN
Public Works Director Matthew Baumgardner provided the staff report for Item No. 12. He presented options for a small median beautification project at the intersection of Downey Ave., New St., and 6th St. He described existing conditions at the approximately 850 square foot median, which currently consists of asphalt, concrete, cobbles, traffic signage, a streetlight, a small elephant palm tree, and no irrigation. He explained that the proposed improvements would involve removing the existing materials and tree, importing suitable soil, and installing drought tolerant landscaping. Staff recommended planting a strawberry marina tree, an approved and low maintenance evergreen street tree, along with succulents and mulch to accommodate the lack of irrigation. Director Baumgardner outlined an optional enhancement to include signage within the median. He noted that while monument style signs are typically used in larger medians, a scaled down version could be considered, subject to Council direction on wording. He estimated the cost of landscaping improvements at approximately $10,000, with signage fabrication and installation adding an additional $25,000, for a total potential project cost of about $35,000. He stated that funding would come from the City's annual citywide median landscaping capital improvement funds and concluded by offering to answer any questions from the Council.
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Mayor Sosa asked whether the removal and planting components of the proposed median project would be funded through the City's existing beautification allocations. Director Baumgardner confirmed that median improvements are an eligible use of the City's annual citywide median landscaping funds and noted that Metro allows those funds to be used within medians. City Manager Bradley added that the City maintains an annual program that applies these funds to median improvements throughout the City.
Mayor Sosa asked about the annual amount allocated for median landscaping. Director Baumgardner responded that the City budgets approximately $500,000 each year, with about half used for general median maintenance and the remaining funds dedicated to tree planting. He noted that the City aims to plant approximately 500 to 600 trees annually in parkways and medians using these funds.
Council Member Trujillo shared that he requested the agenda item and explained that the median is located near Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, a highly trafficked area with notable architectural significance. He shared that, while street improvements prompted the request for beautification, he envisioned a more artistic treatment rather than standard landscaping. He suggested exploring the use of the Art in Public Places Fund to incorporate an artistic element, potentially a monument style feature, and discussed the idea of using the word "faith" in a broader, non -religious sense to reflect the City's diversity and numerous places of worship. He emphasized the City's inclusive character and noted that the location is near the City's central core. Council Member Trujillo asked that the Council consider options beyond a standard City entry sign and suggested placing an artistic concept in the queue.
Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton stated that the location is not a major arterial or gateway and therefore would not be an appropriate site for a monument sign bearing the City's name. She agreed that such signage is better suited for primary entry corridors such as Imperial Hwy., Firestone Blvd., or Florence Ave. She expressed support for focusing on drought tolerant landscaping solutions instead, such as ornamental grasses or succulent plantings, noting that these options would be attractive, low maintenance, and appropriate for the site. She concluded that the median needs improvement and would benefit from enhanced landscaping rather than monument signage.
Council Member Frometa asked for an update on the remaining balance of the Art in Public Places Fund. City Manager Bradley responded that the estimated balance is approximately $30,000, noting that planned projects such as the downtown Gateway sign, murals, and other initiatives will consume a significant portion of those remaining funds.
Council Member Trujillo suggested that, if the word "faith" is not pursued, the City should consider an artistic installation to continue the existing art corridor along Downey Ave. He noted that the location serves as a transition into the Downtown Downey area and would complement the sculptures already installed along the corridor.
Council Member Frometa expressed support for this idea, agreeing that an artistic feature would be an appropriate and attractive addition.
Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton raised concerns about installing a one-sided art piece at a busy intersection with multiple approaches, noting that drivers may not be able to safely view artwork from all directions. Council Member Trujillo suggested that a 360' sculptural piece would be more appropriate and visible from multiple angles. He noted the opportunity to incorporate solar lighting so the artwork could be illuminated at night without extensive infrastructure, allowing the piece to be appreciated after dark.
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City Manager Bradley asked whether the Council wished to proceed with the landscaping improvements first or preferred to coordinate the landscaping with any future artistic elements so they are implemented together.
Council Member Frometa expressed support for moving forward with replacing the existing median with landscaping as an initial step, noting that any artistic or design elements would require additional discussion and planning at a later date.
Mayor Sosa stated that the Council could proceed with a decision on the landscaping portion as a separate item, emphasizing that the removal and planting work appropriately aligns with the purpose of the existing CIP fund allocation.
Council Member Ortiz stated that he supports adding vegetation to the median, noting that leaving the area as dirt and rocks does not reflect the City well. He asked whether medians without irrigation would continue to be left in that condition. City Manager Bradley responded that the current condition resulted from disrepair due to the lack of irrigation, but that the City can install drought tolerant landscaping that will thrive without irrigation, confirming the area would be improved rather than left as a standard condition for similar locations.
Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton expressed support for the strawberry marina tree, noting that it requires minimal water, adds visual substance above the lower plantings, and is well suited for the site.
She emphasized the importance of preserving the existing mature tree, estimating it to be approximately 50 years old, and stated that she would not want it removed.
Council Member Trujillo asked for the name of the existing tree in the median, and Director Baumgardner responded that it is an elephant palm tree.
Council Member Trujillo asked for the Council's input on whether the existing tree should be removed, noting that Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton had expressed a preference for preserving it, and stated that he was open to further discussion on the matter.
Mayor Sosa recommended deferring to staff expertise, suggesting that professionals determine the most appropriate and feasible approach to beautifying the median.
Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton stated her support for preserving the existing tree.
City Manager Bradley noted that staff could leave space within the median design to accommodate a future discussion or installation of public art at that location.
Council Member Trujillo expressed concern about installing landscaping that might later need to be removed if an art feature is added and suggested asking staff to return with options for the center of the median. Mayor Sosa responded that such direction could be addressed through a formal motion.
It was moved by Council Member Trujillo, seconded by Council Member Ortiz, and carried 5-0, to proceed with beautifying the raised median located at the intersection of Downey Ave., New St., and 6'" St. with drought tolerant succulents and to have staff return with options for a discussion on a potential installation of an art monument or sign within the raised median.
ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Sosa adjourned the Regular City Council Meeting - Open Session at 8:45 p.m. in memory of Chief John Ojeisekhoba Sr., 54, Associate Vice President and Chief of Campus Safety at Biola City Council Minutes
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University, employed for 25-years, who passed away due to a medical emergency; the victims of the September 11, terrorist attacks; and, Fletcher Merkel, 8, and Harper Moyski, 10, victims of the shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
AR: ALICIA�DUTE,
City Clerk
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UD A M. FRO A
Mayor
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