MINUTES OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
REGULAR MEETING
OCTOBER 28, 2025
The City Council of the City of Downey held a Regular City Council Meeting — Closed Session on October 28, 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. items.
Mayor Sosa asked if there was anyone present who would like to comment on Closed Session B.C., resident, commented in regards to Item No. 1.
It was moved by Council Member Frometa, seconded by Council Member Ortiz, and so ordered by Mayor Sosa, to close public comment.
RECESSED TO CLOSED SESSION
Mayor Sosa announced the City Council is recessing to Closed Session at 5:39 p.m. to discuss matters under the authority of the following sections of the Government Code:
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.
RECONVENED REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING — CLOSED SESSION Mayor Sosa reconvened the Regular City Council Meeting — Closed Session at 6:31 p.m.
City Attorney Funk reported the Closed Session report as follows: In regards to Item No. 1, no reportable action was taken.
City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting — October 28, 2025
The City Council of the City of Downey held a Regular City Council Meeting — Open Session on October 28, 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, CIVIC, City Clerk
The Invocation was delivered by Pastor Michael Gutierrez, Redeemer Covenant Church. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Girl Scout Troop 7272.
CITY COUNCIL MEMBER ANNOUNCEMENTS; REQUESTS FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS;
CONFERENCE/MEETING REPORTS
Council Member Ortiz welcomed the audience to the meeting. He reported attending the State of the City event in Montebello and supporting the Downey Police Department Pink Patch Fundraiser at Lazy Dog. He highlighted upcoming community events, including the Pumpkin Patch at the Downey Adult school and the Dfa de los Muertos event at the Downey Civic Center. He wished the community a safe and enjoyable Halloween.
Council Member Trujillo reported attending the Downey Conservancy's 15th Anniversary Celebration, he congratulated the organization, and emphasized Downey's rich history and the Conservancy's role in preserving it. He encouraged the public to learn more about the City's history.
Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton welcomed the audience to the meeting. She recognized Breast Cancer Awareness Month, emphasizing the importance of early detection and screenings, and thanked local police officers and participants involved in the Pink Patch Fundraiser event. She noted seasonal celebrations, including Oktoberfest, and encouraged support for local businesses following her attendance the Famous Dave's Barbecue ribbon cutting. She reported attending the Downey Conservancy's 15th Anniversary celebration, underscoring the organization's role in preserving the City's history, and shared historical context about the featured home and Downey's legacy. She described attending the Diwali Festival of Lights, Kids and Cops Day, and praised efforts that strengthen youth and police relationships. She highlighted consent calendar items related to the Inspiration Shuttle exhibit and new educational facilities, noting plans for expanded STEM classrooms, event space, and the need for additional fundraising to complete the project. She shared upcoming cultural events at the Downey City Council Minutes
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Theatre and Downey Symphony. Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton requested identifiable elevator signage at the Downey Theatre for accessibility, and concluded by wishing Council Member Frometa a happy birthday.
Council Member Frometa welcomed the audience to the meeting. She noted her participation in the Downey Conservancy's 151" Anniversary Celebration and emphasized the importance of continuing to protect historic buildings and support the Conservancy's work. She addressed the City's approach to large community and church events, clarifying that while the City values collaboration and respects religious land use protections, large events that draw significant attendance require special event permits to ensure public safety and manage liability. She emphasized that the City's intent is to partner with organizations and make the permitting process smooth and supportive. Council Member Frometa requested heightened traffic awareness ahead of Halloween, particularly in areas with heavy trick -or - treat activity, including Imperial Hwy and Woodruff Ave., Gallatin Rd. between Lakewood Blvd. and the Downey —Sanford Bridge, and Florence Ave. between Lakewood Blvd. and the 1-605, citing past safety concerns and speeding. She concluded by asking residents for patience during ongoing construction at Lakewood Blvd. and Firestone Blvd. and thanked the community for their cooperation.
Mayor Sosa welcomed the audience to the meeting. He reported attending the Spooky Science Festival at the Columbia Memorial Space Center, commending Director Ben Dickow and staff for a highly successful, family -oriented event that drew a large crowd and included a classic car show. He noted his participation in the biweekly County Sanitation Meeting and a meeting of the Southeast Los Angeles County Workforce Development Board (SELACO), highlighting the organization's focus on expanding internships and entry-level job opportunities for young adults and graduating seniors. Mayor Sosa concluded with a request for staff to conduct a speed survey on Fontana St., north of Stewart & Gray St., in the vicinity of Brookshire Ave. and Patton Rd., citing concerns about shortcut traffic and speeding.
CITY MANAGER/STAFF MEMBER COMMENTS
City Manager Bradley provided brief updates and responses to prior requests. He confirmed staff would install signage at the Downey Theatre to better identify the elevator and would deploy additional patrols during Halloween in the areas identified by the Council, as well as conduct the requested speed survey. He explained the City's special event permitting process, noting it is a standard practice used by most cities and applies to all events, not churches specifically. He emphasized that the purpose of the process is public safety and community impact mitigation, including ensuring proper traffic control, maintaining access for nearby businesses and residents, coordinating police and fire access, and reviewing safety and security plans. City Manager Bradley reiterated that the City supports community events and uses the permitting process to ensure events are safely managed to minimize nuisances, and protect both attendees and the surrounding community.
PRESENTATIONS
1. Mayor's Outstanding Citizen Award to Bianca Farina.
2. Police and Fire Employees of the Quarter.
3. Presentation of City Tile to retiring employee with 23 years of service, Eugenia Brunet, Regional Fire Communications Operator, Downey Fire Department.
4. Proclamation in honor of Red Ribbon Week, October 23-31, presented to Southland Young Marines.
PUBLIC COMMENT ON AGENDA, CONSENT CALENDAR AND NON -AGENDA ITEMS City Council Minutes
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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.
No name provided, Employee at the Central Basin Municipal Water District, commented regarding former Central Basin Municipal Water Board Member Martha Camacho-Rodriguez.
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.
Alan Halstensgaard, resident, commented in opposition to abortion.
B.C., resident, amended his previous comment in regards to Closed Session Item No. 1.
Brenda, resident, commented in regards to the construction project on Lakewood Blvd. and Firestone Blvd.
Michael Chacon, resident, commented in regards to the construction project on Lakewood Blvd. and Firestone Blvd.
Lee Squire, resident, commented in regards to antisemitism.
Shane Hicks, commented in regards to special event permits in the City.
Eduardo Sandoval, resident, commented in regards to a recent traffic -related incident he was involved in.
George, resident, commented in regards to Item No. 10.
It was moved by Council Member Frometa, seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton, and so ordered by Mayor Sosa to close public comment.
CONSENT CALENDAR
It was moved by Council Member Frometa, seconded by Council Member Trujillo, and carried 5- 0, to approve the Consent Calendar.
1. APPROVAL OF COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES: Special Meeting of May 28, 2025; Regular Meetings of August 27, 2024, February 25, 2025, and March 25, 2025: City Clerk.
2. WARRANTS ISSUED: Warrant Nos. 393217-393598; Payroll Wire Nos. 30004624, 3004625, 3004628, 30004631-30004634; EFT Nos. 15127-15168; and, Manual Wire Nos. 2746-2747, in the total amount of $4,216,378.45: Finance.
3. APPROVAL OF PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS AND AUTHORIZATION TO SOLICIT
CONSTRUCTION BIDS FOR THE INSPIRATION SHUTTLE EXHIBIT AND EDUCATION BUILDING, CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT (CIP) NO. 21-18: Public Works.
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Regular Meeting — October 28, 2025 4
APPROVED THE PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS, AND AUTHORIZED THE SOLICITATION
OF CONSTRUCTION BIDS, FOR THE INSPIRATION SHUTTLE EXHIBIT AND EDUCATION BUILDING, CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT (CIP) NO. 21-18
4. APPROVAL OF PURCHASE AND ACQUISITION OF PERMANENT ROAD AND TEMPORARY CONSTRUCTION EASEMENTS FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT 10000 LAKEWOOD BOULEVARD: Public Works.
AUTHORIZED THE CITY MANAGER, OR HIS DESIGNEE, TO EXECUTE THE AGREEMENT
TO PURCHASE REAL PROPERTY FROM PACIFIC SPRINGS, LLC, CALIFORNIA LIMITED
LIABILITY COMPANY, BY MERGER TO DOWNEY INVESTMENT PROPERTIES, A GENERAL
PARTNERSHIP, INCLUDING ANY NON -SUBSTANTIVE EXTENSIONS AND AMENDMENTS
5. APPROVAL OF A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH VICTORY FUNDRAISING
AND EVENTS FOR FUNDRAISING CONSULTING SERVICES FOR THE COLUMBIA MEMORIAL SPACE CENTER: CMSC.
1) APPROVED AN AGREEMENT WITH VICTORY FUNDRAISING AND EVENTS INC. FOR
FUNDRAISING CONSULTANT SERVICES AT THE COLUMBIA MEMORIAL SPACE CENTER, FOR A ONE-YEAR TERM BEGINNING ON OCTOBER 28, 2025, WITH THE
OPTION TO EXTEND FOR AN ADDITIONAL TWO, ONE-YEAR TERMS FOR A TOTAL CONTRACT AMOUNT OF UP TO $126,000; AND,
2) AUTHORIZED THE CITY MANAGER TO APPROVE AND EXECUTE ALL AMENDMENTS
TO THE AGREEMENT
6. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION UPDATING HOURLY PAY RANGES FOR THE POSITIONS
DESIGNATED AS TEMPORARY/PART-TIME AND THE TEMPORARY/FULL-TIME POSITION OF AMBULANCE OPERATOR: Human Resources.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 25-8324, UPDATING THE HOURLY PAY SCHEDULE FOR
POSITIONS DESIGNATED AS TEMPORARY/PART-TIME AND THE TEMPORARYIFULL-
TIME POSITION OF AMBULANCE OPERATOR
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
7. DISCUSSION REGARDING A DOG PARK AT GOLDEN PARK: Parks and Recreation.
DISCUSSED AND PROVIDED STAFF WITH DIRECTION REGARDING OPTIONS FOR THE
INSTALLATION OF A SECOND DOG PARK AT GOLDEN PARK
Parks and Recreation Director Jason Chacon provided the staff report for Item No. 7. He outlined options for moving forward with a proposed second dog park at Golden Park. He explained that the project stemmed from City Council direction in June 2023 to identify potential locations for an additional dog park. After evaluating multiple sites based on land ownership, access, parking, existing programming, utilities, and neighborhood impacts, staff returned in March 2024 and was directed to proceed with Golden Park and begin preliminary design and community outreach. Director Chacon noted that the project would be funded with approximately $500,000 in L.A. County Regional Park and Open Space District Measure A funds, with no General Fund contribution required. Community outreach conducted during summer Concerts in the Park generated generally positive feedback, though many residents emphasized the need to improve the existing dog park at Rio San Gabriel. Additional community meetings held near Golden Park revealed opposition from nearby residents, who raised concerns related City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting — October 28, 2025 5
to long-term maintenance, odors, parking congestion, increased traffic and pedestrian activity, lack of crosswalks, and the potential loss of open space. He presented two options for Council consideration.
Option one would proceed with construction at Golden Park, incorporating design refinements based on community feedback, with construction anticipated to begin later this year and completion in early 2026.
Option Two would defer the project until completion of the Parks Master Plan update in Fiscal Year 2026- 27, which would include extensive community outreach, data -driven analysis, and alignment with the Downey Forward Strategic Plan. Director Chacon explained that under Option one, approximately $485,000 in county funds would be appropriated for the project, while Option two would have no immediate fiscal impact and would allow the funds to remain available for other park priorities, including upcoming playground and park improvement projects. He concluded by requesting City Council direction on how to proceed.
Council Member Ortiz thanked Parks and Recreation Director Chacon, staff, City Commissioners, and colleagues for participating in the community meetings and outreach efforts. He summarized feedback received from residents, noting that many expressed concerns about safety, cleanliness, and prioritization of park uses, with a strong sentiment that family and child focused amenities should take precedence over a dog park at Golden Park. He explained that the majority of nearby residents opposed the proposed dog park and encouraged the City to focus on other activities and upgrades. Council Member Ortiz emphasized ongoing efforts to improve Golden Park, including the installation of security cameras, enhanced deterrents for unwanted activity, and consideration of additional safety measures such as crosswalk improvements. He stated that residents made clear they would prefer investments that enhance park safety and family friendly use, and that adding amenities geared toward children could help deter undesirable activity. Based on the feedback received, he expressed support for deferring the dog park at this location and revisiting the concept at a different park or at a later time.
Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton reflected on her long-standing support for adding a second dog park in the City and noted her initial enthusiasm for the Golden Park proposal, believing it would activate the park and increase positive activity. However, after attending the community meetings, she expressed surprise at the level of opposition from nearby residents and acknowledged that many of their concerns were reasonable. She emphasized the importance of listening to residents and respecting their input, noting that the City conducted outreach and heard clear feedback. Given that the funding would not be lost and could be reallocated, and with the Parks Master Plan update approaching, she stated it would be prudent to pause the project at this location. Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton commended staff for the thoughtful design and outreach efforts but concluded that, given the mixed community response and the scale of the investment, she supported deferring the dog park until a location and use are identified that have broader community support.
Council Member Frometa emphasized that the City has been evaluating the need for a second dog park for several years. She cautioned against basing citywide decisions solely on feedback from a small number of residents, noting that the Council represents the broader community of approximately 114,000 residents. She highlighted long standing concerns from residents about the limited capacity and adequacy of the existing dog park and underscored the importance of considering benefits to the majority, including equitable access to amenities across different areas of the City. Council Member Frometa noted that activating Golden Park with additional amenities could help address ongoing issues such as illicit activity by increasing lighting and community presence. While she expressed understanding of neighborhood concerns regarding parking and a desire for more child focused amenities, she raised concern that deferring the project could result in a missed opportunity, as available funding for a second dog park may not return in the near future. She concluded by expressing hesitation about delaying the project solely based on limited opposition, while reaffirming the need to balance neighborhood input with citywide priorities.
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Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton asked whether Wilderness Park had been evaluated as a potential site for a dog park, noting its larger size and that it had been suggested by residents, while also expressing interest in locating a facility on the west side of the City. Staff explained that Wilderness Park was reviewed but is divided among multiple property owners, including Caltrans, the City, and Edison, and that the portion owned by the City is too limited in size to accommodate a dog park.
Council Member Ortiz asked where a second dog park ranks within the Parks Master Plan priorities. Director Chacon responded that a second dog park is a lower priority compared to other park projects and amenities, noting that usage at the existing dog park has declined from pre-COVID levels and that current conditions may be contributing to reduced attendance.
City Manager Bradley clarified that the discussion pertains to a proposed new dog park, noting that the existing dog park is approximately 10 years old and that community needs and priorities can change over time. He explained that this is why the Parks Master Plan is being updated, to reassess priorities and determine where a second dog park may ultimately rank in the future.
Council Member Ortiz suggested that the discussion about a second dog park should be deferred to the upcoming 10-year Parks Master Plan process, emphasizing the importance of allowing future councils and broader community input to shape long-term park priorities. He noted that feedback from residents in his District has focused more on basic park improvements for children, such as upgraded play areas and basketball courts, rather than a second dog park. He added that he has heard limited demand for an additional dog park and suggested prioritizing upgrades to the existing dog park before considering construction of a new one.
Council Member Frometa recommended prioritizing improvements to the existing dog park, noting that it is outdated and undersized, particularly for larger dogs, and suggested expanding and enhancing the space rather than proceeding with a new location. In response, Director Chacon clarified that upgrades to the current dog park at Rio San Gabriel are already planned as part of a broader renovation project, which includes expanding the dog park area, reconfiguring large and small dog sections, installing new surfacing, removing select trees, and significantly enlarging the facility as part of a comprehensive park improvement effort.
Council Member Ortiz commended Director Chacon for the quality of the community presentation and expressed appreciation that lessons learned from the Golden Park outreach could be applied to improvements at the existing dog park. Director Chacon responded by outlining the extensive community engagement planned for the upcoming Parks Master Plan update, including numerous community meetings, surveys, and targeted outreach to neighborhood residents, sports groups, and general park users to ensure broad input on future park priorities and amenities.
Council Member Trujillo asked when enhancements to the existing dog park could be expected.
Director Chacon responded that the project is currently delayed due to new L.A. County Public Health requirements associated with the site's former landfill status, including an extended gas and emissions testing period of up to eight months. He explained that staff is working with Public Works and county partners to address these requirements and to preserve related grant funding, but at this time a specific timeline for completion cannot be confirmed.
It was moved by Council Member Ortiz, seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton, and carried 5- 0, to proceed with Option Two and defer the dog park project until completion of the Parks Master Plan.
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8. DISCUSS LA PHILHARMONIC NEIGHBORHOOD CONCERT AT THE DOWNEY THEATRE:
Parks and Recreation.
APPROVED FEE WAIVERS FOR FACILITY RENTAL AND LABOR COSTS FOR THE "LA PHIL NEIGHBORHOOD CONCERT" TO BE HOSTED AT THE DOWNEY CIVIC THEATRE Parks and Recreation Director Jason Chacon provided the staff report for Item No. 8. He presented a request for Council consideration to waive up to $10,000 in facility rental and labor costs to support a proposed L.A. Philharmonic Neighborhood Concert Series performance at the Downey Theatre. He explained that the L.A. Phil Neighborhood Concert Series offers free community concerts throughout L.A. County to expand access to the arts and strengthen community connections, particularly in areas that may not typically attend performances at major venues. Director Chacon noted that the LA Philharmonic, in partnership with County Supervisor Hahn's Office and other entities, approached the City while seeking a Southeast L.A. location and expressed strong interest in the Downey Theatre following an on -site visit. The Philharmonic was impressed with the Theatre's size, technical capabilities, and Downey's existing arts community, including the Downey Symphony and school district programs.
The proposed waiver would include approximately $5,000 in facility and equipment rental fees and $5,000 in labor costs. No City funds would be paid to the LA Philharmonic; rather, the City would forgo rental revenue typically associated with the event. Director Chacon added that the concert is currently in development and would be promoted regionally through a coordinated press release.
Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton asked how many musicians the LA Philharmonic would bring, noting the typical capacity of the Downey Symphony on the Theatre stage and questioning whether the venue size would be sufficient. Director Chacon responded that the LA Philharmonic tailors each performance to the venue and community, and for this concert they anticipate bringing approximately 25 to 35 musicians, along with an appropriate stage setup.
Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton asked about the anticipated length of the performance. Director Chacon responded that the concert itself is expected to last approximately one and a half to two hours and noted that the event would also include additional activities on the plaza deck, such as vendors and arts and crafts, to complement the performance.
Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton asked whether staff had attended a prior L.A. Phil Neighborhood Concert in another City. Assistant City Manager De Rojas responded that she had attended a recent concert in Whittier.
It was moved by Council Member Frometa, seconded by Council Member Ortiz, and carried 5-0, to approve fee waivers for facility rental and labor costs for the "LA Phil Neighborhood Concert" to be hosted at the Downey Civic Theatre.
9. DISCUSSION REGARDING CITY OF DOWNEY WATER RATES: Public Works. 1) RECEIVED AN UPDATE ON THE PROPOSED CITY OF DOWNEY WATER RATES; AND, 2) DIRECTED STAFF TO MOVE FORWARD WITH:
a. HOLDING COMMUNITY INFORMATIONAL SESSIONS TO DISCUSS THE PROPOSED WATER RATE INCREASE;
b. FINALIZING THE WATER RATE ANALYSIS; AND,
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c. RETURNING TO THE CITY COUNCIL AT ITS NOVEMBER 18, 2025 MEETING TO CONSIDER INITIATING PROPOSITION 218 PROCEEDINGS, WHICH ARE
REQUIRED FOR THE ADOPTION OF NEW WATER RATES
Public Works Director Matthew Baumgardner provided the staff report for Item No. 9. He explained that the City's water system serves approximately 20,000 customers, with an estimated 80% residential and 20% commercial split. The system relies on groundwater pumped from 20 wells and distributed through approximately 258 miles of pipeline. While average demand can be met by operating nine wells, staff typically operates additional wells to distribute wear and avoid overburdening any single facility. He reported that the City last implemented a water rate increase in 2015-16, at which time there was an annual surplus of approximately $5 million between revenues and expenditures that was used to fund capital improvement projects. Over the past decade, water revenues have declined due to conservation efforts and wetter weather patterns, while operating costs have increased significantly, including labor, materials, electricity, and pump taxes paid to the Water Replenishment District. As a result, the annual operating margin has steadily decreased and is now nearing zero, limiting the City's ability to fund capital improvement projects without adjustments. Director Baumgardner noted that Downey currently maintains the lowest average residential water rates in the region. Looking ahead, the system faces increasing financial pressures, including annual inflation, approximately $5 million per year in capital improvement needs for water mains, well rehabilitation, and backup power generation, and the requirement to construct a PFAS treatment system with an estimated total cost of $125 million. He outlined recent efforts to strengthen system reliability, including the purchase of portable backup generators to maintain water service and pressure during emergencies, and ongoing efforts to secure permanent backup generation through state and federal hazard mitigation grants. These upgrades are critical for maintaining fire suppression capabilities and overall system resilience. Director Baumgardner explained that the Council previously directed staff to proceed with a formal water rate study. Staff worked with a specialized consultant to evaluate financial options, prioritize critical capital improvement projects, and reduce costs where possible. Through grants, loan forgiveness, settlements, and low -interest state financing, the City has secured approximately $40 million to offset PFAS-related costs and reduce long- term borrowing impacts. Based on the study, staff presented a proposed rate adjustment that would add approximately $14.80 per month for the average customer, while still keeping Downey's rates among the lowest in the region and ensuring compliance, safety, and long-term sustainability of the water system.
Director Baumgardner concluded by outlining next steps, including early community outreach and education, initiation of the Proposition 218 process, distribution of notices to property owners, additional public engagement efforts, and a future public hearing at which the City Council would consider adoption of new water rates.
Mayor Sosa emphasized that even with the proposed water rate increase, Downey's rates would remain lower than neighboring jurisdictions, including the City of Paramount, which is also in the process of reviewing potential rate adjustments. In response to the Mayor's question regarding the City's historical rate increases, Public Works Director Baumgardner confirmed that prior to the 2015-16 adjustment, the City had not increased water rates for approximately 16 to 17 years.
Mayor Sosa asked for an assessment of the current condition of the City's water system. Public Works Director Baumgardner stated that the system is currently in good condition, noting that the proposed rate adjustments are necessary to maintain ongoing capital improvement projects and to support completion of the PFAS treatment project in the coming years.
Mayor Sosa asked what measures are currently in place to prevent sinkholes caused by long- term water leakage. Public Works Director Matthew Baumgardner explained that sinkholes are often difficult to predict because they typically result from undetected leaks that may take years to manifest.
He noted that prevention efforts focus on maintaining roadway surfaces to prevent water intrusion, conducting thorough inspection programs to identify deteriorating pipes, and ensuring proper backfill and City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting — October 28, 2025 9
surface drainage. He added that the City has proactively replaced aging pipelines in conjunction with residential paving projects to reduce long-term risks. City Manager Bradley added that staff has worked diligently over many years to maintain the water system at low cost while keeping it in good condition. He noted that Downey has historically benefited from clean groundwater requiring minimal treatment, which has helped control costs. However, upcoming treatment requirements, including PFAS compliance, are now driving higher costs, and staff has reached the limits of what can be deferred while still maintaining system integrity.
Mayor Sosa acknowledged that considering rate increases is challenging but expressed appreciation that the proposed water rates would remain lower than those of neighboring cities. He noted that, given inflation and rising costs for goods and services, water rates should be reviewed on a more regular basis. Public Works Director Baumgardner responded that industry best practice is to conduct water rate studies approximately every five years and confirmed that staff intends to follow that approach moving forward.
Mayor Sosa emphasized that maintaining Downey's high property values depends on having a strong infrastructure foundation, including a reliable water system. He underscored the importance of providing residents with the highest level of service and ensuring adequate funding to address contingencies such as power outages.
Council Member Frometa acknowledged that reviewing water rates every five years is a best practice and noted that while rate increases are never popular, they are necessary to avoid deferring critical infrastructure needs. She emphasized the importance of maintaining reliable water service and long-term system sustainability and expressed encouragement that Downey would still remain the lowest - cost provider in the region even with the proposed increase. She requested that the comparative rate graphic be widely shared with residents, noting its value in clearly illustrating Downey's position relative to neighboring cities. Director Baumgardner responded that staff would incorporate the comparative rate graphic into educational and outreach materials, emphasizing that it effectively demonstrates that Downey would continue to have the lowest water rates in the region despite the proposed increase.
Council Member Ortiz echoed his colleagues' comments, agreeing that visual comparisons are effective in communicating the need for the proposed rate increase. He noted that water rates have not been raised in 10 years and acknowledged the difficulty of implementing an increase, while emphasizing that Downey would still maintain the lowest rates among surrounding cities.
Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton asked for clarification regarding the statement that the water system serves approximately 20,000 customers, given the City's population of about 114,000. Staff explained that the figure refers to the number of water service connections, with each connection potentially serving multiple residents or units, such as apartment buildings, and that the system does in fact serve the entire City.
Council Member Ortiz asked for clarification on the timeline and cost of the PFAS treatment project. Director Baumgardner responded that the PFAS treatment system must be operational by April 2031 and is estimated to cost approximately $125 million, of which about $40 million has been secured through grant funding.
It was moved by Council Member Frometa, seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Pemberton, and carried 5-0, to approve staff's recommended actions, items 1 and 2.
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ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Sosa adjourned the Regular City Council Meeting — Open Session at 8:54 p.m. in memory of Police Officer Ray Barrentes, 2-year veteran of the Cowchilla Police Department, who passed away while on routine patrol when his vehicle collided with a big rig.
MARIA ALICIA DUARTE, CIVIC CLAUDIA M. FROMETA
City Clerk Mayor
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