MINUTES OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
REGUALR MEETING
FEBRUARY 24, 2026
The City Council of the City of Downey held a Regular City Council Meeting — Open Session on February 24, 2026 at 6:31 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
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
Timothy A. Birthisel, Principal Civil Engineer
James McQueen, Human Resources Director
Swati Meshram, Deputy Community Development Director - Planning Jason Chacon, Parks and Recreation Director
Marlon Ramirez, Interim Assistant Finance Director
M. Alicia Duarte, CMC, City Clerk
The Invocation was delivered by Pastor Dan Dutch, Desert Reign Church. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Girl Scout Troop 2903.
PRESENTATIONS: None.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
1. PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER A RESOLUTION APPROVING A FRANCHISE AGREEMENT WITH MR. C'S TOWING FOR TOWING AND STORAGE SERVICES: Police.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 26-8337, APPROVING A FRANCHISE AGREEMENT FOR TOWING AND STORAGE SERVICES WITH MR. C'S TOWING
Mayor Pro Tern Ortiz opened the Public Hearing at 6:36 p.m.
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Regular Meeting — February 24, 2026
City Clerk Duarte affirmed receipt of the Proof of Publication. It was moved by Council Member Trujillo, seconded by Council Member Pemberton, and carried 4-0, with Mayor Frometa absent, to receive and file the publication.
Police Chief Scott Loughner provided the staff report for Item No. 1. He presented the proposed towing franchise agreement, pursuant to Section 1403 of the Downey City Charter. He explained that the agreement governs police -initiated tows, including traffic collisions, impounds, abandoned vehicles, DUI - related impounds, and long-term evidentiary holds. He outlined key Request for Proposal (RFP) requirements, including 24-hour availability, a 20-minute response time, and a secured facility capable of storing at least 100 vehicles, including indoor storage for evidentiary vehicles at no cost to the City. He stated that the franchise fee is a cost -recovery tool, with the City receiving 20% of police -initiated tow revenues, averaging approximately $60,000 annually, and that rates are regulated under California Highway Patrol guidelines. Chief Loughner reported that three companies responded to the RFP.
AstroTow was disqualified for not meeting lot size requirements, Titan Transportation was unable to meet updated franchise requirements after losing its lease, and Mr. C's Towing met all minimum qualifications.
Mr. C's Towing has served as the City's emergency towing provider since October 15, and has demonstrated timely performance, and received positive references from other Police agencies. He recommended approval of the franchise agreement with Mr. C's Towing and noted representatives were available for questions.
Council Member Sosa asked whether Titan Towing submitted its bid with the expectation of securing property within the City during the process. Chief Loughner responded that Titan Towing had hoped to obtain a location within the City; however, the property they had been leasing was sold, and the new owners intended to use it for other purposes. He stated that Titan Towing explored alternative sites but was unable to secure a suitable location within the required timeframe, particularly to meet the City's need for proper vehicle storage and evidentiary holds.
Council Member Sosa asked how long the RFP process was open and how many proposals were received, noting that the prior agreement had been non-exclusive and that Titan Towing had been the only respondent at that time. Chief Loughner responded that the RFP was advertised for 30 days and the three companies submitted proposals. He confirmed that during the previous procurement approximately five years ago, Titan Towing was the sole respondent and was awarded a three-year agreement with two one-year extensions.
Council Member Sosa requested confirmation that agencies including Montebello Police Department, Bell Gardens Police Department, South Gate Police Department, the Los Angeles (L.A.) County Sheriff's Department, and the California Highway Patrol provided favorable references for Mr. C's Towing. Chief Loughner confirmed that staff contacted those agencies and received uniformly positive feedback. He emphasized the importance of securing a reputable operator due to the need to properly store vehicles involved in felony traffic collisions and homicides, maintain chain of custody, and ensure evidentiary integrity, noting that the City has had very good success with the company.
Council Member Sosa inquired about the 20-minute response time requirement, noting that it is relatively quick compared to past practices. Chief Loughner referenced the City's previous non-exclusive towing rotation system, where multiple companies were used and response delays were common, sometimes resulting in Police officers waiting up to an hour due to missed calls and cancellations. He emphasized that extended wait times are inefficient and that Police officers cannot remain on scene for City Council Minutes
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prolonged periods awaiting a tow. He acknowledged initial concerns regarding whether the current provider could meet the standard, but confirmed that the company has consistently complied by staging drivers and remaining prepared to respond promptly.
Mayor Pro Tern Ortiz asked whether a 30-day advertisement period for the RFP was standard practice or whether a longer timeframe is typically used. City Manager Bradley responded that 30 days is generally the standard duration for RFPs and noted that, in some cases, the City has issued RFPs for as little as three weeks. He stated that 30 days provides a sufficient and reasonable period for vendors to submit proposals.
Mayor Pro Tern Ortiz asked whether Titan Towing was still considering operating in Downey.
Chief Loughner responded that he has not spoken with Titan Towing since mid -October, when the City separated from the company, and noted there are still unrelated administrative matters being addressed outside of the towing RFP. He emphasized that the separation was not due to performance concerns, as Titan Towing provided satisfactory service for approximately 16 to 17 years, but rather because the company no longer had a facility to store and impound vehicles.
Council Member Pemberton sought clarification regarding the location of the towing company's storage lot, confirming that it is not located within the City of Downey but nearby on Firestone Blvd. Chief Loughner confirmed that the lot is located near Firestone Blvd. and the 1-710 Fwy., in the vicinity of South Gate.
Council Member Pemberton inquired whether the proposed towing agreement is non-exclusive and whether other tow companies could bid or be added in the future. City Manager Bradley confirmed that under a non-exclusive agreement, the City retains the option to add another towing provider if desired. However, he stated that the City is not presently pursuing another provider, as the current arrangement is meeting operational needs.
Council Member Pemberton asked whether the proposed franchise fee is consistent with what the City previously had with Titan Towing. Chief Loughner confirmed that the franchise fee structure is the same as the prior agreement with Titan Towing. He explained that staff surveyed nearby cities to ensure the fee is fair and consistent with regional standards, noting that surrounding agencies typically charge between 14% and 25% of gross receipts, with some also requiring annual flat fees. He stated that the proposed structure aligns with the general range charged by neighboring cities.
City Manager Bradley explained that franchise fees are commonly associated with franchise agreements and are intended to offset impacts to the public right-of-way, including wear and tear caused by heavy tow trucks operating on City streets. He noted that the fee allows the City to recover related costs and is a standard practice among municipalities.
Council Member Pemberton referenced a constituent concern regarding towing and storage fees, noting that in a situation where a vehicle was retrieved within a few hours, a full day's storage fee was still charged. She cited the contract provision stating that vehicles stored eight hours or less may be charged up to one full day of storage and questioned why the fee is not prorated for shorter storage periods. Chief Loughner responded that he has not seen towing companies prorate storage fees for partial days. He explained that the minimum daily charge helps offset the company's operational costs, including staffing, equipment, fuel, and insurance. He further clarified that the "short storage period" City Council Minutes
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provision means that once a vehicle exceeds eight hours in storage, the company may assess an additional daily storage fee without waiting a full 24 hours.
Council Member Pemberton inquired about the disciplinary provisions in the agreement and how complaints are monitored. She noted that in reviewing public feedback, many complaints appeared related to private property tows rather than police -initiated impounds. She emphasized the importance of distinguishing between private property towing and public roadway towing, clarifying that private property tows are initiated by property owners and are subject to posted signage requirements. Chief Loughner confirmed that private property impounds are separate from police -directed tows and are not governed by the City's agreement in the same manner. He explained that proper signage is required for private property enforcement and stated that, generally, towing rates follow California Highway Patrol standards unless otherwise specified in a separate contractual arrangement with the City in which the tow occurs.
Council Member Trujillo inquired whether the three-year contract term is standard. City Manager Bradley responded that contract terms are typically structured within a three- to five-year window and confirmed that the three-year term is standard. He added that the agreement was bid with that timeframe, and any changes would require reopening the bidding process.
City Attorney Funk added that such franchise agreements are authorized under the Downey Municipal Code, which provides for a term of up to three years.
Council Member Trujillo asked whether vehicle owners are responsible for daily storage fees when a vehicle is impounded for evidentiary purposes. Chief Loughner explained that while a vehicle is held for evidence, there is no storage cost incurred. However, once the evidence hold is lifted and the registered owner is notified, storage fees begin accruing if the vehicle is not promptly retrieved.
Chief Loughner added that, as part of the franchise agreement, the towing provider also furnishes emergency towing services for City vehicles, such as responding to flat tires or breakdowns, at no additional cost.
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.
City Clerk Duarte confirmed there were no speakers.
Having none, Mayor Pro Tern Ortiz closed public comment.
It was moved by Council Member Trujillo, seconded by Council Member Sosa, and so ordered by Mayor Pro Tern Ortiz, to close the Public Hearing at 6:54 p.m.
It was moved by Council Member Pemberton, seconded by Council Member Trujillo, and carried 4-0, with Mayor Frometa absent, to adopt Resolution No. 26-8337, approving a Franchise Agreement for Towing and Storage Services with Mr. C's Towing.
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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.
Captain Gregory Schwartz, LAFD Station 42 "B", asked the Council to consider installing a speed camera at Brookshire Ave. between Florence Ave. and Gallatin Rd.
It was moved by Council Member Pemberton, seconded by Council Member Trujillo, and carried 4-0, with Mayor Frometa 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.
Delia Espinoza, resident, commented in regards to recent ICE activities in the City.
Eduardo Sandoval, resident, commented in regards to an incident involving the Downey Police Department.
Sarah, resident, commented regarding coyote sightings and requested that the City provide community outreach.
Carmen Vasquez, President of the Kiwanis Foundation, commented regarding the donation of funding for the playground at Rio San Gabriel Park.
trees.
Maria Lopez, resident, commented regarding an issue she has reported to the City related to City Zion Shue, resident, commented in regards to recent ICE activities in the City.
Speaker No. 7, left before their time to speak.
George Guzman, resident, requested that the speed limit on 5th St. between Brookshire Ave. and Lakewood Blvd. be changed from 35 mph to 25 mph and to install a stop sign.
Victor Hugo Rincon, resident, commented in regards to recent ICE activities in the City.
Speaker No. 10, commented in regards to President Donald Trump's response to the passing of Rob Reiner.
It was moved by Council Member Trujillo, seconded by Council Member Pemberton, and carried 4-0, with Mayor Frometa absent, to close public comment.
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CONSENT CALENDAR
Council Member Trujillo pulled Item No. 6, for separate discussion.
It was moved by Council Member Trujillo, seconded by Council Member Sosa, and carried 4-0, with Mayor Frometa absent, to approve the remainder of the Consent Calendar.
2. APPROVAL OF COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES: Regular Meeting of April 22, 2025: City Clerk.
WARRANTS ISSUED: Warrant Nos. 396503-396932; Payroll Wire Nos. 30004675-30004676, 30004678; 30004663; 30004669-30004670; EFT Nos. 15548-15616; Manual Wire No. 2799; and, Cashier's Check Nos. 91203-91205, in the total amount of $6,357,633.08: Finance.
4. APPROVAL OF PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS AND AUTHORIZATION TO SOLICIT
CONSTRUCTION BIDS FOR THE CITYWIDE SLURRY SEAL PROJECT, CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT (CIP) NO. 26-03: Public Works.
APPROVED PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS, AND AUTHORIZED SOLICITATION, FOR CONSTRUCTION BIDS FOR THE CITYWIDE SLURRY SEAL PROJECT, CIP NO. 26-03
5. APPROVED A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH BE SOCIAL PRODUCTIONS FOR THE LOS ANGELES WORLD CUP 26 FAN ZONE AT THE CITY OF DOWNEY:
Administration.
1) APPROVED A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH BE SOCIAL PRODUCTIONS FOR THE LOS ANGELES WORLD CUP 26 FAN ZONE WITHIN THE CITY OF DOWNEY, FOR A CONTRACT TERM BEGINNING FEBRUARY 24, 2026 THROUGH JULY 30, 2026; AND,
2) AUTHORIZED THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE ALL AMENDMENTS TO THE
AGREEMENT
7. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE CITY OF DOWNEY AND THE DOWNEY FIRE MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION:
Human Resources.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 26-8338, APPROVING THE MEMORANDUM OF
UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE CITY OF DOWNEY AND THE DOWNEY FIRE MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION (JANUARY 1, 2026 — DECEMBER 31, 2029)
8. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE CITY OF DOWNEY AND THE DOWNEY POLICE OFFICERS' ASSOCIATION:
Human Resources.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 26-8339, APPROVING THE MEMORANDUM OF
UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE CITY OF DOWNEY AND THE DOWNEY POLICE OFFICERS' ASSOCIATION (JANUARY 1, 2026 — DECEMBER 31, 2029) City Council Minutes
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9. FISCAL YEAR 2025-2026 SECOND QUARTER PROGRESS REPORT OF THE DOWNEY FORWARD 2030 STRATEGIC PLAN: Administration.
RECEIVED AND FILED THE DOWNEY FORWARD 2030 STRATEGIC PLAN SECOND QUARTER PROGRESS REPORT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2025-2026
10. ACCEPTANCE OF A COMMEMORATIVE BENCH DONATION FROM THE DOWNEY LOS AMIGOS KIWANIS CLUB: Public Works.
ACCEPTED THE DONATION OF A BENCH FROM THE DOWNEY LOS AMIGOS KIWANIS CLUB
OTHER BUSINESS
Item No. 6 was taken out of order.
6. APPROVAL OF REIMBURSEMENT AGREEMENT WITH THE DOWNEY KIWANIS FOUNDATION FOR PLAYGROUND RENOVATIONS AT RIO SAN GABRIEL PARK: Parks and Recreation.
AUTHORIZED THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE A REIMBURSEMENT AGREEMENT WITH THE DOWNEY KIWANIS FOUNDATION FOR $300,000, OVER FOUR YEARS, FOR THE
PLAYGROUND RENOVATION PROJECT AT RIO SAN GABRIEL PARK
Council Member Trujillo stated that he pulled Item No. 6, not due to concerns with its substance, but to highlight the contributions of the Downey Kiwanis Club. He recognized Kiwanis' longstanding history of service, particularly its focus on youth leadership and community service, and expressed personal appreciation for the organization's impact on his life. He commended the Club's continued contributions to the City, including the playground project at Rio San Gabriel Park, and requested that the Council consider naming the playground in honor of Jerry Wetzstein in recognition of his dedication and service to the community. The request was seconded by Council Member Sosa.
Council Member Sosa expressed appreciation for the continued service of the Kiwanis Clubs in the City, particularly recognizing the Kiwanis Club of Downey Noon Club for its strong support and community involvement.
Mayor Pro Tern Ortiz expressed appreciation for the Kiwanis organization and its continued commitment to serving the community.
It was moved by Council Member Trujillo, seconded by Council Member Pemberton, and carried 4-0, with Mayor Frometa absent, to approve a Reimbursement Agreement with the Downey Kiwanis Foundation for $300,000, over four years, for the playground renovation project at Rio San Gabriel Park.
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS: None.
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CITY COUNCIL MEMBER ANNOUNCEMENTS; REQUESTS FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS;
CONFERENCE/MEETING REPORTS
Council Member Sosa reported that he attended the Independent Cities Association (ICA) Winter Seminar, where he participated in sessions related to the Coastal Commission, cybersecurity updates, drone technology demonstrations, short-term rentals, and smart revenue growth strategies that do not rely on additional taxation. He shared that he was asked to moderate a panel on smart revenue growth due to a last-minute cancellation and found the experience valuable. Council Member Sosa emphasized the importance of aligning with the City's Strategic Plan by prioritizing private investment that supports long-term revenue growth and the attraction of high -paying professional jobs, noting that such growth benefits the broader local economy and small business community.
Council Member Trujillo requested that coyote awareness and response strategies be incorporated as an integral component of the City's Neighborhood Watch Program. He proposed providing live workshops and training opportunities for residents, particularly in impacted areas, to better address coyote -related concerns. He suggested the development and distribution of informational signage as part of community outreach efforts.
Assistant City Manager De Rojas shared that the City maintains a Coyote Management Plan available on the City's website that outlines response protocols based on reported activity levels. She noted that information is regularly shared through social media and that the City maintains communication with wildlife organizations. She added that staff has been discussing expanded outreach efforts, including distributing brochures and providing deterrence education such as the use of noise devices, and will coordinate with the Police Department to implement these efforts.
Council Member Trujillo expressed interest in hosting a Town Hall meeting featuring park rangers or representatives from the Department of Fish and Wildlife to provide a live presentation on coyote issues, noting that residents, particularly seniors, value the opportunity to ask questions in person. City Manager Bradley stated that while participation from the Department of Fish and Wildlife can be limited, staff is willing to reach out to explore the possibility of organizing another community meeting.
Council Member Trujillo expressed concerns regarding AT&T service quality and requested that the City reach out to the company to communicate those concerns. City Manager Bradley responded that the City has previously engaged in discussions with AT&T and will continue outreach efforts; however, he noted that AT&T is a private entity and the City does not have regulatory authority over its operations.
Council Member Trujillo announced that Downey ICE Watch will host a public meeting at Downey First Christian Church on Florence Ave. where free alert whistles will be distributed.
Council Member Pemberton reported that she attended the ICA Winter Seminar and found the sessions informative, particularly those addressing best practices and the role of the Coastal Commission in protecting public coastal access. She participated in a California Contract Cities Zoom meeting featuring L.A. County Sheriff Robert Luna, who discussed Senate Bill 54 and clarified that the Sheriff's Department does not inquire about immigration status, responds to calls for assistance, and does not permit ICE access within County jails without proper warrants. She provided information regarding the ICE detainee locator website and phone number for individuals seeking to locate detained persons and noted that the Council continues to monitor evolving issues within its legal authority. She highlighted City Council Minutes
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several Consent Calendar items, including the Citywide Slurry Seal Project, which will rehabilitate 55 residential street segments totaling approximately 6.8 miles at an estimated cost of $1 million, funded by vehicle impact fees, with construction anticipated from May through August. She noted approval of an agreement with Be Social Productions to assist with planning and implementation of the official L.A. World Cup Fan Zone at Stonewood Center, anticipated to draw 10,000 to 15,000 attendees and generate economic activity for local businesses. The event will be free and includeS four scheduled matches throughout the day. Council Member Pemberton announced upcoming community events, including TLC's 14th Annual 5k Run at Apollo Park and the 30th Annual ARC Walk at Stonewood Center. She further thanked Human Resources Director McQueen and staff for successfully concluding complex labor negotiations with the Downey Fire Management Association and the Downey Police Officers Association, resulting in four-year agreements through December 2029. She concluded by expressing appreciation to the Kiwanis Foundation for its donation toward the playground project and library bench.
Mayor Pro Tern Ortiz reported that he attended the ribbon cutting ceremony for the new "Welcome to Downtown Downey" mural and expressed appreciation to City staff and Stay Arts for their partnership in bringing the public art project to completion. He requested that staff revisit the waste management deposit required for businesses, noting concerns that the fee, particularly for small businesses, may be a deterrent to economic development. The request was seconded by Council Member Trujillo.
Mayor Pro Tern Ortiz requested that staff explore expanding the City's current school zone designations to include City parks, potentially reclassifying them as "safety zones," with consideration of additional signage, reduced speed limits, and enhanced pavement markings in areas where children play to further promote public safety. City Manager Bradley confirmed that staff could evaluate the legal and operational implications of such a change and return to Council with information for consideration. The request was seconded by Council Member Sosa.
CITY MANAGER/STAFF MEMBER COMMENTS
City Manager Bradley announced that there were no comments from staff.
ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Pro Tern Ortiz adjourned the City Council Meeting — Open Session at 7:45 p.m. in memory of Reverend Jesse Jackson, 84, American Civil Rights Activist; and, Sheriff Deputy Brian Sneed, 12-year Veteran of the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department serving the West Hollywood Station, who passed away while off -duty.
AR ALICIA DUART C
City Clerk
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