MINUTES OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
REGUALR MEETING
FEBRUARY 10, 2026
The City Council of the City of Downey held a Regular City Council Meeting — Open Session on February 10, 2026 at 5:30 p.m., in the Council Chambers of the Downey City Hall, 11111 Brookshire Avenue, Downey, California, Mayor Pro Tern Ortiz presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members:
Claudia M. Frometa Mayor (excused)
Horacio Ortiz Mayor Pro Tern
Dorothy Pemberton Council Member
Hector Sosa Council Member
Mario Trujillo Council Member (excused)
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, CIVIC, City Clerk
PUBLIC COMMENT ON CLOSED SESSION AGENDA ITEMS
Mayor Pro Tern Ortiz 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 Pro Tern Ortiz asked if there was anyone present who would like to comment on Closed Session items.
B.C., resident, requested that the City cooperate with federal officials to ensure that all claimants are valid American citizens.
Having no further speakers.
It was moved by Council Member Pemberton, seconded by Council Member Sosa, and so ordered by Mayor Pro Tern Ortiz, to close public comment.
RECESSED TO CLOSED SESSION
Mayor Pro Tem Ortiz 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 - Worker's Compensation Claim - Claimant:
Scott Devereux - Claim No.: 21-152991; Worker's Compensation Appeals Board No.: ADJ14001024; Agency claimed against: City of Downey.
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2. Government Code Section 54956.95 — Liability Claim - Worker's Compensation Claim - Claimant:
Brian Baker - Claim No.: 23-175963; Worker's Compensation Appeals Board No.: ADJ19140613; Agency claimed against: City of Downey.
3. Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1) — Conference with Legal Counsel — Existing Litigation: Hilda Baez De Campos v. City of Downey et al., Los Angeles County Superior Court Case No. 24NWCV03386.
4. Government Code Section 54957.6 — Conference with labor negotiator James McQueen, Director Human Resources re: direction for labor negotiations with Downey Police Officers' Association.
RECONVENED REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING — CLOSED SESSION Mayor Pro Tern Ortiz reconvened the Regular City Council Meeting — Closed Session at 6:31 p.m. with Council Member Trujillo and Mayor Frometa absent.
City Attorney Funk reported the Closed Session report as follows: In regards to Item Nos. 1, 2, 3, and 4, no reportable action was taken.
The City Council of the City of Downey held a Regular City Council Meeting — Open Session on February 10, 2026 at 6:35 p.m., in the Council Chambers of the Downey City Hall, 11111 Brookshire Avenue, Downey, California, Mayor Pro Tern Ortiz presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members:
Claudia M. Frometa Mayor (excused)
Horacio Ortiz Mayor Pro Tern
Dorothy Pemberton Council Member
Hector Sosa Council Member
Mario Trujillo Council Member (excused)
ALSO PRESENT: Roger Bradley, City Manager
Vaniah De Rojas, Assistant City Manager
John M. 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 and Recreation Director
Austin Ramirez, Economic Development Director
M. Alicia Duarte, CMC, City Clerk
The Invocation was delivered by Rick Rodriguez, Former Downey Mayor. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Boy Scout Troop 441.
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PRESENTATIONS
1. Presentation to the City Council by the Downey Youth Commission.
2. Presentation to the City Council by the Independent Citizens' Oversight Committee on the 2025 Measure S and Measure D Annual Report.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
1. FISCAL YEAR 2024-2025 AND FISCAL YEAR 2025-2026 HUD ACTION PLAN SUBSTANTIAL AMENDMENTS: Economic Development.
1) CONDUCTED A PUBLIC HEARING AND RECEIVED COMMENTS ON THE PROPOSED SUBSTANTIAL AMENDMENTS TO THE FY 2024-2025 AND FY 2025-2026 ANNUAL ACTION
PLANS FOR THE USE OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) AND HOME INVESTMENT PARTNERSHIPS (HOME) FUNDS;
2) APPROVED THE PROPOSED FY 2024-2025 SUBSTANTIAL AMENDMENT, WHICH
CANCELS THE CDBG-FUNDED LOS ANGELES CENTERS FOR ALCOHOL AND DRUG ABUSE (LA CADA) — BEHAVIORAL HEALTH PROGRAM ($20,000) AND THE VETERAN EMPLOYMENT SUPPORT TRAINING (VEST) PROGRAM ($25,000), AND REALLOCATES A TOTAL OF $46,000 TO THE FY 2025-2026 CDBG HOUSING REHABILITATION PROGRAM; 3) APPROVED THE PROPOSED FY 2025-2026 SUBSTANTIAL AMENDMENT, WHICH CANCELS THE CDBG-FUNDED LA CADA — BEHAVIORAL HEALTH PROGRAM ($20,000)
AND THE HOME -FUNDED THE WHOLE CHILD TENANT -BASED RENTAL ASSISTANCE (TBRA) PROGRAM ($50,000), AND REALLOCATES THOSE FUNDS TO THE FY 2025-2026 CDBG HOUSING REHABILITATION PROGRAM (INCREASED FROM $344,187 TO $409,187) AND THE FY 2025-2026 HOME HOUSING REHABILITATION PROGRAM (INCREASED FROM $263,732.44 TO $303,732.44);
4) AUTHORIZED THE CITY MANAGER, OR HIS DESIGNEE, TO SUBMIT THE APPROVED
SUBSTANTIAL AMENDMENTS AND ANY NECESSARY SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION TO THE UNITES STATES DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT; AND, 5) AUTHORIZED THE CITY MANAGER, OR HIS DESIGNEE, TO MODIFY AND EXECUTE ANY
AND ALL APPROPRIATE INSTRUMENTS, AGREEMENTS, CONTRACTS, AND
IMPLEMENTING DOCUMENTS RELATED TO THE IMPLEMENTATION AND
ADMINISTRATION OF THE SUBSTANTIAL AMENDMENTS
Mayor Pro Tern Ortiz opened the Public Hearing at 6:53 p.m.
City Clerk Duarte affirmed receipt of the Proof of Publication. It was moved by Council Member Pemberton, seconded by Council Member Sosa, and carried 3-0, with Mayor Frometa and Council Member Trujillo absent, to receive and file the publication.
Homelessness Solutions and Housing Manager Sergio Correas provided the staff report for Item No. 1. He introduced a substantial amendment to the Fiscal Years 2024-2025 and 2025-2026 HUD City Council Minutes
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Annual Action Plans related to the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnerships funding. He explained that the amendment proposes canceling select federally funded public service and assistance programs that were unable to meet federal compliance requirements and reallocating those funds to the City's Housing Rehabilitation Program. For Fiscal Year 2024-2025, Mr.
Correas stated that two CDBG public service programs are proposed for cancellation: (1) the Los Angeles Centers for Alcohol and Drug Abuse (LA CADA) Behavioral Health Program in the amount of $20,000, which was intended to provide counseling and referral services to low- and moderate -income residents; and (2) the Veteran Employment Support Training (VEST) Program in the amount of $25,000, which provided job readiness training and employment support to low-income veterans. He explained that subrecipients must comply with strict federal monitoring, documentation, and eligibility requirements to meet HUD national objectives, and failure to do so could jeopardize the City's current and future CDBG and HOME allocations. Despite staff providing technical assistance and compliance support, the subrecipients were unable to meet federal requirements. For Fiscal Year 2025-2026, Mr. Correas indicated that two additional programs are proposed for cancellation: (1) the LA CADA Behavioral Health Program in the amount of $20,000 in CDBG funding due to prior noncompliance, rendering the subrecipient ineligible; and (2) the Whole Child Tenant -Based Rental Assistance Program in the amount of $50,000 in HOME funding. He noted that the latter subrecipient retains prior -year HOME funds and may continue administering services with those remaining funds; therefore, additional funding is not required at this time. Mr. Correas stated that all canceled funds are proposed to be redirected to the City's Housing Rehabilitation Program, which assists low- and moderate -income homeowners with critical health and safety repairs, including roofing, structural improvements, electrical and plumbing hazard corrections, and accessibility modifications for seniors and persons with disabilities. He reported that the program has a current estimated waitlist of approximately three years and demonstrated consistent demand and measurable resident benefit. The proposed funding increase is anticipated to reduce the waitlist by approximately six months by enabling the City to complete additional rehabilitation projects within the fiscal year.
Council Member Pemberton stated that she reviewed the proposed reallocation of HUD CDBG funds and sought clarification regarding the federal requirements and compliance obligations tied to the funding. She emphasized the importance of ensuring that awarded agencies meet federal standards to avoid placing the City's funding at risk due to noncompliance. She expressed support for reallocating the funds to the City's Housing Rehabilitation Program, noting the current three-year waitlist for low- and moderate -income homeowners seeking assistance with critical repairs. Council Member Pemberton encouraged eligible residents in need of home repairs to inquire about available grant assistance and stated that she was pleased the additional funding could help reduce the wait time and allow more residents to complete necessary improvements to their homes.
Mayor Pro Tern Ortiz inquired whether the City was previously restricted from using the referenced federal funds due to federal requirements and compliance limitations. City Manager Bradley responded that while the funding carries strict requirements and compliance obligations, it is not currently restricted, and the City is able to utilize the funds in accordance with federal guidelines.
Council Member Sosa inquired how long the organizations had been receiving CDBG funding allocations. Mr. Correas responded that the LA CADA had been funded for approximately 10 years, while the VEST Program had received funding for one year.
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Mayor Pro Tern Ortiz asked City Clerk Duarte if any written public comments were received regarding the Public Hearing item. City Clerk Duarte confirmed no written public comments were received.
Mayor Pro Tern Ortiz asked City Clerk Duarte if there was anyone present who would like to comment regarding the Public Hearing item.
B.C., resident, commented regarding the lack of oversight in prior funding to nonprofits and expressed support for increased federal scrutiny of such funds.
It was moved by Council Member Pemberton, seconded by Council Member Sosa, and so ordered by Mayor Pro Tern Ortiz, to close the Public Hearing at 7:00 p.m.
It was moved by Council Member Sosa, seconded by Council Member Pemberton, and carried 3-0, with Mayor Frometa and Council Member Trujillo absent, to receive comments on the proposed Substantial Amendments to the FY 2024-2025 and FY 2025-2026 Annual Action Plans for the use of CDBG and HOME funds; approved the proposed FY 2024-2025 Substantial Amendment, which cancels the CDBG-funded LA CADA— Behavioral Health Program ($20,000) and the VEST program ($25,000), and reallocates a total of $45,000 to the FY 2025-2026 CDBG Housing Rehabilitation Program; and, approved the proposed FY 2025-2026 Substantial Amendment, which cancels the CDBG-funded LA CADA — Behavioral Health Program ($20,000) and the home -funded The Whole Child TBRA program ($50,000), and reallocates those funds to the FY 2025-2026 CDBG Housing Rehabilitation Program (increased from $344,187 to $409,187) and the FY 2025-2026 Home Housing Rehabilitation Program (increased from $253,732.44 to $303,732.44); authorized the City Manager or his designee, to submit the approved Substantial Amendments and any necessary supporting documentation to the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development; and, authorized the City Manager, or his designee, to modify and execute any and all appropriate Instruments, Agreements, Contracts, and Implementing Documents related to the Implementation and Administration of the Substantial Amendments.
PUBLIC COMMENT ON AGENDA, CONSENT CALENDAR AND NON -AGENDA ITEMS Mayor Pro Tern Ortiz 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.
Lorraine Craig, resident, commented regarding SEAACA's online licensing and payment process and direct online donation limits for community support to the shelter.
It was moved by Council Member Pemberton, seconded by Council Member Sosa, and carried 3-0, with Mayor Frometa and Council Member Trujillo absent, to receive and file written public comment.
Mayor Pro Tern Ortiz asked City Clerk Duarte if there was anyone present who would like to comment regarding Agenda, Consent Calendar and Non -Agenda items.
Valeria Esparza, resident, commented regarding concerning activity in her neighborhood and expressed the need for the installation of additional safety measures.
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Maha Samhat, resident, commented regarding concerning activity in her neighborhood and expressed the need for the installation of additional safety measures.
Alexander Morales, resident, commented regarding concerning activity in her neighborhood and expressed the need for the installation of additional safety measures.
B.C., resident, commented regarding the crime in the City and the need for more police officers.
Ernesto Valle, resident, commented regarding the Independent Citizens' Oversight Committee.
Jose Ontiveros, resident, commented regarding a code enforcement violation.
John Lacey, resident, congratulated the City for becoming an official World Cup Fan Zone.
Speaker No. 8, no name provided, commented regarding ethics.
Michelle Farina, resident, commented in support of a cat spay and neuter program and regarding the BDS movement.
Speaker No. 10, commented in regards to police resource allocations and imposing time limits on long-term building permits.
It was moved by Council Member Sosa, seconded by Council Member Pemberton, and carried 3-0, with Mayor Frometa and Council Member Trujillo absent, to close public comment.
CONSENT CALENDAR
It was moved by Council Member Sosa, seconded by Council Member Pemberton, and carried 3-0, with Mayor Frometa and Council Member Trujillo absent, to approve the Consent Calendar.
2. APPROVAL OF COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES: Regular Meetings of January 13, 2026 and January 27, 2026: City Clerk.
3. WARRANTS ISSUED: Warrant Nos. 396171-396502 (Check No. 101 was voided); Payroll Wire Nos. 30004662,30004668, 30004672-30004673; EFT Nos. 15533-15547; Manual Wire Nos. 2787 - 2798; and Cashier's Check No. 91202, in the total amount of $3,343,481.72: Finance.
4. APPROVAL OF CONTRACT WITH F.M. THOMAS AIR CONDITIONG, INC. FOR THE
REPLACEMENT OF THE HVAC SYSTEM CONTROLS AT THE COLUMBIA MEMORIAL SPACE CENTER, CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM (CIP) NO. 26-16: Public Works. 1) APPROVED A PUBLIC WORKS CONTRACT AGREEMENT WITH F.M. THOMAS AIR CONDITIONING, INC. IN THE AMOUNT OF $180,000 FOR THE UPGRADE OF
THE DIRECT DIGITAL CONTROL SYSTEM FOR THE HVAC AT THE COLUMBIA MEMORIAL SPACE CENTER; AND,
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2) AUTHORIZED THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE ALL AMENDMENTS TO THE
AGREEMENT
5. APPROVAL OF A PROFESSIONAL SERVICE AGREEMENT WITH INFINITY TECHNOLOGIES FOR INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY MANAGEMENT SERVICES: Administration.
APPROVED AN AGREEMENT WITH INFINITY TECHNOLOGIES FOR AN INITIAL THREE- YEAR TERM BEGINNING FEBRUARY 10, 2026, FOR AN ANNUAL CONTRACT AMOUNT OF $1,335,168
6. APPROVAL OF A LEGAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH DAPEER ROSENBLIT & LITVAK LLP FOR CITY PROSECUTOR SERVICES: Community Development/Police.
APPROVED THE LEGAL AGREEMENT WITH DAPEER, ROSENBLIT, & LITVAK, LLP FOR
CITY PROSECUTOR SERVICES, FOR A THREE-YEAR, THREE-MONTH TERM BEGINNING ON MARCH 1, 2026, WITH THE OPTIONAL EXTENDED TERM OF THREE YEARS, PER COMPENSATION RATES SET FORTH IN EXHIBIT "B" OF THE AGREEMENT
7. RATIFICATION OF AN AGREEMENT WITH THE LOS ANGELES WORLD CUP 2026 HOST COMMITTEE TO HOST AN OFFICIAL WORLD CUP FAN ZONE IN THE CITY DOWNEY:
Administration.
1) RATIFIED THE CITY MANAGER'S EXECUTION OF AN AGREEMENT WITH THE LOS ANGELES WORLD CUP 2026 HOST COMMITTEE (LAWCHC) TO HOST AN OFFICIAL WORLD CUP FAN ZONE IN THE CITY OF DOWNEY; AND,
2) AUTHORIZED THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE ALL AMENDMENTS TO THE
AGREEMENT
8. APPROVAL OF MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE CITY AND GATEWAY
CITIES COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS FOR TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE UNDER THE
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF GOVERNMENTS' REGIONAL EARLY ACTION PLANNING SUBREGIONAL PARTNERSHIP 2.0 GRANT PROGRAM FOR DEVELOPMENT OF LOCAL VEHICLE MILES TRAVELED GUIDELINES: Community Development.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 26-8334, APPROVING A MEMORANDUM OF
UNDERSTANDING BY AND BETWEEN THE GATEWAY CITIES COUNCIL OF
GOVERNMENTS AND THE CITY OF DOWNEY FOR TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE UNDER THE
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF GOVERNMENTS' REGIONAL EARLY ACTION PLANNING SUBREGIONAL PARTNERSHIP 2.0 GRANT PROGRAM
9. APPROVAL OF A PUBLIC HEARING DATE AND TIME FOR GRANTING OF A TOWING AND STORAGE SERVICES FRANCHISE: Police.
1) ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 26- 8335, DECLARING THE CITY'S INTENTION TO GRANT
A FRANCHISE AGREEMENT FOR TOWING AND STORAGE SERVICES AND SETTING FORTH THE NOTICE OF THE TIME AND DATE FOR HEARING OBJECTIONS THERETO; AND,
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2) SET PUBLIC HEARING FOR GRANTING THE FRANCHISE AGREEMENT FOR TOWING AND STORAGE SERVICES FOR FEBRUARY 24, 2026
10. APPROVAL OF AMENDMENTS TO THE INDEPENDENT CITIZENS OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE BYLAWS: Finance.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO.26-8336, APPROVING AMENDMENTS TO THE BYLAWS OF
THE INDEPENDENT CITIZENS OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE (ICOC)
11. ADOPTION OF AN ORDINANCE APPROVING THE EIGHTH AMENDMENT TO THE 1-5 CONSORTIUM CITIES JOINT POWERS AGREEMENT: Public Works.
ADOPTED ORDINANCE NO. 26-1540, APPROVING THE EIGHTH AMENDMENT TO THE INTERSTATE 5 CONSORTIUM CITIES JOINT POWERS AGREEMENT
12. ACCEPTANCE OF DONATED FIREFIGHTER WELLNESS EQUIPMENT: Fire.
ACCEPTED THE DONATION OF FIREFIGHTER WELLNESS EQUIPMENT FROM DIALED AND DEFEND, VALUED AT $12,999
13. MEASURE S AND MEASURE D ANNUAL REPORT: Finance.
INTRODUCED AN ORDINANCE APPROVING THE EIGHTH AMENDMENT TO THE INTERSTATE 5 CONSORTIUM CITIES JOINT POWERS AGREEMENT
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
14. ANNUAL COMPREHENSIVE FINANCIAL REPORT (ACFR) FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDING JUNE 30, 2025: Finance.
RECEIVED AND FILED THE CITY'S ANNUAL COMPREHENSIVE FINANCIAL REPORT (ACFR) FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDING JUNE 30, 2025
Interim Assistant Finance Director Marlon Ramirez provided the staff report for Item No. 14. He presented an overview of the City's Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025, explaining that the report reflects the City's audited year-end financial position and is prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. He reported that the City received an unmodified audit opinion with no material weaknesses, significant deficiencies, or instances of noncompliance, and noted the City has earned the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) Certificate of Achievement for 26 consecutive years, with this year's report submitted for consideration.
He stated the City maintains a strong financial position, with a net position of approximately $261 million, an increase of $15 million from the prior year; a combined governmental funds ending balance of approximately $108.6 million; and a General Fund balance of approximately $57.9 million, including $49.4 million in assigned and unassigned reserves. He reported that independent compliance audits for Measure S and, Measure D found the City in compliance with voter requirements. He concluded by City Council Minutes
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recognizing Finance Department staff for their work and introduced the independent auditors Kelli Gonzalez and Stephen Barrett Warnick with LSL LLP to provide additional comments.
Kelli Gonzalez of LSL LLP provided an overview of the City's financial audit, explaining that the audit was conducted in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards, Government Auditing Standards, and Uniform Guidance for the Single Audit of federal programs. She outlined the two-phase audit process, including interim fieldwork focused on internal controls and risk assessment, and year-end fieldwork involving detailed testing of financial statements, transactions, and compliance. She reported that the auditors issued an unmodified opinion on the City's financial statements as of June 30, 2025, with no material weaknesses, significant deficiencies, findings of noncompliance, or concerns regarding fraud, waste, orabuse. She confirmed no issues related to Measures S or D compliance and thanked Finance staff for their cooperation and responsiveness throughout the audit process.
Council Member Sosa thanked the Finance Department, the audit team, the City Manager, Assistant City Manager, and Department Heads for their work on the audit, emphasizing the significance of maintaining Downey's longstanding commitment to fiscal responsibility and sustainability. He highlighted the importance of preserving healthy reserves and a balanced budget, noting that while other jurisdictions face financial challenges, Downey's strong fiscal position is essential to maintaining service levels expected by residents.
Council Member Pemberton expressed appreciation to staff and the audit team for their work and emphasized that the City's receipt of the nationally recognized Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for 26 consecutive years reflects a longstanding commitment to high financial standards. She noted that, despite financial challenges faced by other jurisdictions, Downey's prudent decision -making, strong asset position, and careful management of liabilities have enabled the City to undertake major projects while maintaining fiscal stability. She acknowledged the successful audits of the City's finances and Measures S and D, underscoring the importance of transparency and accountability to residents.
Mayor Pro Tern Ortiz expressed appreciation to staff for their work and he noted that, in comparison to financial challenges faced by other jurisdictions, Downey remains in a strong position and should take pride in its financial management. He acknowledged the City's "small but mighty" team and emphasized the value of healthy Council dialogue in guiding financial decisions.
It was moved by Council Member Pemberton, seconded by Council Member Sosa, and carried 3-0, with Mayor Frometa and Council Member Trujillo absent, to receive and file the City's Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025.
15.DISCUSSION REGARDING LOS ANGELES COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS CONSIDERING A TEMPORARY 1/2 CENT SALES TAX MEASURE ON THE JUNE PRIMARY BALLOT: Administration.
DISCUSSED AND PROVIDED STAFF WITH DIRECTION REGARDING A PROPOSED TEMPORARY COUNTYWIDE '/2 CENT SALES TAX MEASURE ON THE JUNE PRIMARY BALLOT
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City Manager Bradley provided the staff report for Item No. 15. He reported that the County approved placing a proposed 0.5% sales tax measure on the June primary ballot and stated that the City's legislative platform does not currently authorize staff to support or oppose the measure. He requested direction from the City Council on whether to take a formal position and advocate accordingly.
He explained that local jurisdictions are generally capped at 2% in voter -approved sales taxes and that Downey is currently at 1.75%, meaning that Los Angeles (L.A.) County could utilize the remaining capacity unless it obtains State authorization to exceed the cap. He noted there may be opportunities for input during the State approval process and asked for collective Council direction on how to proceed.
Mayor Pro Tern Ortiz stated that he watched the L.A. County Board of Supervisors meeting regarding the proposed 0.5% sales tax and expressed disappointment with the outcome. He reiterated his opposition to additional taxation, citing concerns about tax fatigue, impacts from higher levels of government on local jurisdictions, and skepticism regarding how the funds would be allocated. He referenced the City's prior Measure A homelessness funding, noting that Downey received approximately $500,000, and expressed concern that a similar outcome could occur with the proposed measure. He indicated support for sending a formal letter opposing the half -cent sales tax and emphasized his preference for maintaining local control over revenues. City Manager Bradley clarified that the funding referenced was related to Measure A, a prior countywide half -cent sales tax, and confirmed that Downey received slightly over $500,000 from approximately $13 million generated overall.
Council Member Sosa stated that he had previously submitted a public comment letter to the L.A.
County Board of Supervisors expressing opposition to the proposed 0.5% sales tax and shared his disappointment with the 4 to 1 vote to place the measure on the ballot. He expressed concern that the proposal could pressure cities to consider their own sales tax measures to preserve local revenue and voiced opposition to the County seeking State approval to exceed existing sales tax caps. He cited projected budget deficits at both the County and State levels and argued that additional taxation is not the solution, emphasizing widespread tax fatigue among residents. He raised concerns about the proposed tax being a general tax rather than dedicated to specific purposes and referenced other potential tax -related measures at the State level as examples of growing fiscal pressures. He concluded that this is not an appropriate time to consider additional sales tax increases and emphasized the importance of allowing residents to retain more of their income.
Council Member Pemberton stated that she agrees there is significant tax fatigue and expressed opposition to the proposed 0.5% sales tax. She voiced concern that the increase could negatively impact local auto dealerships and reduce consumer spending within the City. She questioned the characterization of the measure as temporary, noting that such measures often become permanent. She referenced the proposed overall sales tax rate and stated that the cumulative impact on residents is substantial. She cited concerns regarding past L.A. County funding decisions and emphasized the importance of local control and prudent budgeting. She concluded that now is not an appropriate time for a sales tax increase and supported taking a formal position in opposition.
Mayor Pro Tern Ortiz inquired whether, if voters approve the County's proposed 0.5% sales tax, the City would still be able to place its own sales tax measure on the ballot, or whether any local measure would be added on top of the County's increase. City Manager Bradley explained that State law currently allows local jurisdictions, including cities and counties, to impose up to 2% in voter -approved sales tax.
He noted that Downey is currently at 1.75%, leaving 0.25 % remaining within the cap. He stated that, absent State authorization to exceed the cap, the County could only utilize the remaining 0.25 %.
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However, if the County obtains special authorization from the State, it could impose the full 0.5 %, similar to Measure A, which was authorized outside the 2 % limit. He further explained that if the County measure passes without special authorization, the remaining local capacity would be exhausted, and any effort by the City to secure that remaining portion would depend on timing and legal considerations regarding ballot placement.
City Attorney Funk confirmed that State law generally limits local sales tax measures to 2 %; however, if the County obtains State authorization to exceed that cap, the remaining 0.25 % within the existing limit would still be available to the City. He explained that if both the County and the City were to place competing measures on the same ballot and both were approved, the legal outcome is unclear.
While measures typically take effect based on timing, simultaneous approval could create administrative complications, and there is a possibility the State may decline to collect either measure. He noted that legislation in Sacramento, Assembly Bill 1786, has already been introduced as an urgency measure to authorize the County to exceed the cap. Given the support behind the proposal, he indicated it is likely to pass at the State level, with clarity expected in the coming weeks.
Council Member Sosa referenced discussion at the L.A. County Board of Supervisors meeting regarding whether cities could place their own sales tax measures on the ballot after the County's measure is approved and requested clarification. He reiterated his position in opposition to the proposed measure and expressed readiness to make a motion for the City to formally oppose it. City Attorney Funk confirmed that if the County is successful in obtaining State authorization to exceed the 2 % cap, the remaining 0.25 % within the existing limit would still be available to the City and could be considered for placement on a future ballot, including either the June or November election, at the Council's discretion.
It was moved by Council Member Sosa, seconded by Council Member Pemberton, and carried 3-0, with Mayor Frometa and Council Member Trujillo absent, to oppose the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors 0.5 % cent sales tax measure.
CITY COUNCIL MEMBER ANNOUNCEMENTS; REQUESTS FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS;
CONFERENCE/MEETING REPORTS
Council Member Sosa thanked the audience for attending the meeting and wished everyone a good night.
Council Member Pemberton thanked the audience for attending the meeting. She reported that she attended the Senior Fraud Prevention Workshop at the Barbara J. Riley Community and Senior Center, hosted by Assemblywoman Blanca Pacheco, noting it was well attended and provided valuable information, including presentations from the Downey Police Department Officers and Financial Experts.
She announced upcoming community events, including a fundraiser hosted by Gangs Out of Downey (G.O.O.D), the True Lasting Connections (TLC) 14th Annual 5k at Apollo Park, and the 30' ARC Walk at Stonewood Center. She thanked City staff for their efforts in securing Downey as a FIFA Fan Zone on June 20, acknowledging the extensive behind -the -scenes work involved. As Downey's Representative to SEAACA, she provided an update on the recently approved free cat spay and neuter reimbursement program for residents and stated she would advocate for continued funding in the next budget cycle. She shared monthly intake data, noting the high volume of animals received and addressed concerns regarding euthanasia practices, emphasizing humane standards and the importance of reducing overpopulation through spay and neuter efforts and adoption. She requested consideration of reducing printed materials for lengthy Council reports to support sustainability efforts, suggesting digital City Council Minutes
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alternatives. City Manager Bradley indicated that he would work with individual Council Members and staff on preferences.
Mayor Pro Tern Ortiz thanked staff for their efforts in securing Downey's designation as a FIFA Fan Zone, noting the significance of being selected and highlighting that the City will be showcased on a global stage. Mayor Pro Tern Ortiz requested that Code Enforcement address large trucks parked overnight near Gardendale St. and Laureldale Ave. City Manager Bradley confirmed that staff would follow up.
CITY MANAGER/STAFF MEMBER COMMENTS
City Manager Bradley echoed appreciation to staff for their work on the City's audit, acknowledging the time and effort required to complete the process. He thanked the team responsible for preparing the City's FIFA Fan Zone proposal, expressing enthusiasm about the upcoming event and its impact on the community.
ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Pro Tern Ortiz adjourned the City Council Meeting — Open Session at 8:18 p.m. in memory of Investigator Jaime Llamas, 20-year veteran of the Anaheim Police Department and, former Downey Police Officer from 2006 to 2017, who succumbed to his battle with cancer. �ARLICIA DUA��E,
City Clerk
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