City Council Minutes
Regular Meeting – April 28, 2026 1
MINUTES OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF DOWNEY
REGUALR MEETING
APRIL 28, 2026
The City Council of the City of Downey held a Regular City Council Meeting – Open Session on April 28, 2026 at 5:31 p.m., in the Council Chambers of the Downey City Hall, 11111 Brookshire Avenue, Downey, California, Mayor Frometa presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members:
Claudia M. Frometa Mayor
Horacio Ortiz Mayor Pro Tem
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
James McQueen, Human Resources Director
M. Alicia Duarte, CMC, City Clerk
PUBLIC COMMENT ON CLOSED SESSION AGENDA ITEMS
Mayor Frometa 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 Frometa asked if there was anyone present who would like to comment on Closed Session items.
Having no one, Mayor Frometa closed public comment.
RECESSED TO CLOSED SESSION
Mayor Frometa announced the City Council is recessing to Closed Session at 5:32 p.m. to discuss matters under the authority of the following sections of the Government Code:
1. Conference with Legal Counsel – Significant exposure to litigation pursuant to Government Code sections 54956.9(d)(2) and (e)(3). Claim under the Government Claims Act: Michael Lefonts et al.
RECONVENED REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING – CLOSED SESSION
Mayor Frometa reconvened the Regular City Council Meeting – Closed Session at 6:31 p.m. with all Council Members present.
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City Attorney Funk reported the Closed Session report as follows: In regards to Item No. 1, no reportable action was taken.
The City Council of the City of Downey held a Regular City Council Meeting – Open Session on March 24, 2026 at 6:32 p.m., in the Council Chambers of the Downey City Hall, 11111 Brookshire Avenue, Downey, California, Mayor Frometa presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members:
Claudia M. Frometa Mayor
Horacio Ortiz Mayor Pro Tem
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
Matthew Baumgardner, Public Works Director
James McQueen, Human Resources Director
Irma Huitron, Community Development Director
Monica Ortiz, Recreation Manager
Austin Ramirez, Economic Development Director
M. Alicia Duarte, CMC, City Clerk
The Invocation was delivered by Father Sam Ward, St. Raymond Church. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Girl Scout Troop 71365.
PRESENTATIONS
1. Mayor's Legacy Award to the Porto Family: Raul, Betty and Margaret Porto.
2. Mayor's Champion Award to Ezequiel Ponce, Downey High School Senior, selected nationally to participate in a Q&A with Pope Leo XIV during the National Catholic Youth Conference.
3. Mayor's Champion Award to Jose Carlos Valera for achieving the American Dream.
Julia Arce, Field Representative for Congressman Robert Garcia, presented the City Council with a check for the Downtown Downey renovation project and a check for the Rio San Gabriel Park upgrades.
4. Certificate of Appointment to Christian Gutierrez, Public Works Committee, District 4.
5. Proclamation in honor of Fair Housing Month.
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6. Proclamation in honor of Arbor Day.
7. Presentation to the City Council by the League of California Cities.
RECESS/RECONVENE
Mayor Frometa recessed the City Council meeting at 7:21 p.m. Mayor Frometa reconvened the City Council meeting at 7:26 p.m. with all Council Members present.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
1. APPROVAL OF THE FEDERAL COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT AND HOME INVESTMENT PARTNERSHIP GRANT FISCAL YEAR 2026-2027 ANNUAL ACTION PLAN:
Economic Development.
1. APPROVED THE PROPOSED FISCAL YEAR 2026-2027 ANNUAL ACTION PLAN AND
AUTHORIZED THE CITY MANAGER, OR HIS DESIGNEE, TO SUBMIT THE DOCUMENT AND THE REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS TO THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT; AND,
2. 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 PROPOSED FISCAL YEAR 2026-2027 ANNUAL ACTION
PLAN, COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM, AND HOME
INVESTMENT PARTNERSHIPS PROGRAM, INCLUDING SUBRECIPIENT GRANT CONTRACTS AND AGREEMENTS, ON THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND
URBAN DEVELOPMENT'S APPROPRIATION TO THE CITY
Mayor Frometa opened the Public Hearing at 7:44 p.m.
City Clerk Duarte affirmed receipt of the Proof of Publication. It was moved by Council Member Pemberton, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Ortiz, and carried 5-0, to receive and file the publication.
Homelessness Solutions & Housing Manager Sergio Coreas provided the staff report for Public Hearing Item No. 1. He presented the Fiscal Year 2026–2027 Annual Action Plan for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnerships Program, a required U.S.
Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) planning document outlining proposed projects and funding allocations to benefit low- and moderate-income households. He reported that the City anticipates approximately $1 million in new CDBG funds, $859,000 in prior-year CDBG funds, and $414,000 in HOME funds, totaling approximately $2.2 million. While the new CDBG allocation is slightly lower and HOME funding slightly higher than the prior year, overall resources increased due to unexpended CDBG funds carried over following program interruptions related to the federal government shutdown and the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) rule determination. Proposed
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CDBG allocations include $1.3 million for the housing rehabilitation program, $303,000 for HUD Section 108 loan repayments, $20,000 for housing foundation services, and $184,000 for planning and administration, totaling $1.8 million. HOME allocations include $307,000 for housing rehabilitation, $64,000 for affordable housing development set-aside, and $41,000 for administration, totaling $414,000.
The housing rehabilitation program remains the City’s primary and most in-demand activity, with five projects completed in FY 2025–2026 and eight currently in progress; lower production was attributed to program interruptions. Staff estimates up to 25 projects could be completed in the upcoming year. The CDBG waitlist remains significant at approximately three years, while HOME-funded projects have no comparable waitlist but are more difficult to qualify for due to stricter requirements. He noted the public review process included two community meetings with ten total attendees, promoted via City social media, and a public review period from March 27 through April 28. The current Public Hearing serves as the final step prior to submission to HUD for review and approval.
Council Member Pemberton inquired whether the maximum assistance for a homeowner remains $50,000 and whether costs exceeding that amount must be paid out of pocket. Mr. Coreas confirmed that the maximum assistance is $50,000 and that any costs beyond that amount are the responsibility of the homeowner.
Council Member Pemberton asked whether the three-year waitlist for 46 households could be expedited and whether delays were due to funding limitations. Mr. Coreas explained that delays are primarily due to the application and approval process, including income qualification requirements, as well as the limited availability of contractors who meet federal and licensing requirements. Mr. Coreas added that contractor capacity is constrained, as each approved contractor is limited to handling no more than four projects concurrently.
Council Member Pemberton asked whether homeowners are provided with a list of approved contractors. Mr. Coreas responded that once approved, homeowners receive bids from a pool of pre- qualified contractors through a formal bidding process and may select their preferred contractor; alternatively, they may choose their own contractor, provided the contractor meets all required licensing and program qualifications.
Council Member Pemberton asked what types of repairs are most common under the program.
Mr. Coreas responded that the most frequent repairs include roofing, electrical, and plumbing work.
Mayor Frometa 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 Frometa 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.
It was moved by Mayor Frometa, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Ortiz, and so ordered by Mayor Frometa, to close the Public Hearing at 7:47 p.m.
It was moved by Mayor Frometa, seconded by Council Member Trujillo, and carried 5-0, to approve staff’s recommended actions Nos. 1-2.
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PUBLIC COMMENT ON AGENDA, CONSENT CALENDAR AND NON-AGENDA ITEMS
Mayor Frometa asked City Clerk Duarte if any written public comments were received regarding Agenda, Consent Calendar and Non-Agenda items. City Clerk Duarte confirmed no written public comments were received.
Mayor Frometa asked City Clerk Duarte if there was anyone present who would like to comment regarding Agenda, Consent Calendar and Non-Agenda items.
Lourdes Cotaya, resident, urged the Council to take a unified stance against violence, and called for respectful dialogue and accountability within the community.
John Abravanel Berdugo, expressed gratitude to Mayor Frometa and Council Member Trujillo for supporting LA CADA, which he credited with saving his son’s life.
John Lacey, resident, commented in support of free speech but stated that those who cross legal limits should be held accountable.
It was moved by Mayor Frometa, seconded by Council Member Trujillo, and so ordered by Mayor Frometa, to close public comment.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Mayor Frometa pulled Item No. 11, for separate discussion.
It was moved by Council Member Trujillo, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Ortiz, and carried 5-0, to approve the remainder of the Consent Calendar.
2) APPROVED COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES: Regular Meeting of April 8, 2025, and March 24, 2026:
City Clerk.
3) WARRANTS ISSUED: Warrant Nos. 397742-398726 (City) and 116-129 (CMSC); Payroll Wire Nos. 30004683; 30004690-30004692; 30004694; 30004689; 30004693; 30004696 - 30004699; 30004695; 30004701-30004703; EFT Nos. 15747-15908 (City) and 50013-50021 (CMSC); Manual Wire Nos. 2810-2819, in the total amount of $12,465,477.04: Finance. 4) ACCEPTANCE OF WORK FOR REPLACEMENT OF THE HEATING, VENTILATION, AND AIR CONDITIONING (HVAC) SYSTEM AT DOWNEY POLICE DEPARTMENT: Public Works.
1. ACCEPTED THE WORK FOR THE REPLACEMENT OF THE HVAC SYSTEM AT THE DOWNEY POLICE DEPARTMENT, CIP NO. 25-11;
2. APPROVED THE FINAL CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT AMOUNT OF $1,994,514; AND,
3. AUTHORIZED THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS/CITY ENGINEER TO FILE A
NOTICE OF COMPLETION INDICATING THE WORK IS COMPLETE AND HAS BEEN
ACCEPTED BY THE CITY
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5) APPROVAL OF THE PURCHASE OF WATER METERS AND RADIO EQUIPMENT FOR PUBLIC WORKS UTILITIES OPERATIONS: Public Works.
APPROVED A PURCHASE ORDER WITH AQUAMETRIC SALES COMPANY, INC. FOR
WATER METERS AND ASSOCIATED RADIO EQUIPMENT FOR A TOTAL NOT TO EXCEED AMOUNT OF $584,016
6) ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
BETWEEN THE CITY OF DOWNEY AND THE INTERNATIONAL BROTHERHOOD OF ELECTRICAL WORKERS LOCAL 47- MAINTENANCE UNIT: Human Resources.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO.26-8343, APPROVING THE MEMORANDUM OF
UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE CITY OF DOWNEY AND THE INTERNATIONAL BROTHERHOOD OF ELECTRICAL WORKERS LOCAL 47- MAINTENANCE UNIT (APRIL1, 2026 – MARCH 31, 2030)
7) ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
BETWEEN THE CITY OF DOWNEY AND THE INTERNATIONAL BROTHERHOOD OF ELECTRICAL WORKERS LOCAL 47- MISCELLANEOUS UNIT: Human Resources ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 26-8344, APPROVING THE MEMORANDUM OF
UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN THE CITY OF DOWNEY AND THE INTERNATIONAL BROTHERHOOD OF ELECTRICAL WORKERS LOCAL 47- MISCELLANEOUS UNIT (APRIL1, 2026 – MARCH 31, 2030)
8) ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION DECLARING INTENTION TO RENEW FRANCHISE AGREEMENT WITH TESORO SOCAL PIPELINE COMPANY LLC: Public Works.
1. ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 26-8345, DECLARING ITS INTENTION TO RENEW THE
OIL PIPELINE FRANCHISE AGREEMENT WITH TESORO SOCAL PIPELINE COMPANY LLC; AND,
2. SET A PUBLIC HEARING DATE OF MAY 12, 2026 TO HEAR TESTIMONY AND
COMMENTS ON THE PROPOSED FRANCHISE AGREEMENT
9) ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION APPROVING APPOINTMENT TO THE RECREATION AND COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION FOR COUNCIL DISTRICT 3: Council Member Pemberton.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 26-8346, APPROVING THE APPOINTMENT OF JOSE
GUTIERREZ TO THE RECREATION AND COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION FOR COUNCIL DISTRICT 3
10) ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION APPROVING APPOINTMENT TO THE PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE FOR COUNCIL DISTRICT 3: Council Member Pemberton.
ADOPTED RESOLUTION NO. 26-8347, APPROVING THE APPOINTMENT OF JUAN SOTO TO THE PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE FOR COUNCIL DISTRICT 3
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12) 10-DAY REPORT ON INTERIM URGENCY ORDINANCE NO. 25-1529 EXTENDING A MORATORIUM ON SINGLE PRICE OVERSTOCK/DISCOUNT STORES (“SPODS”) WITHIN CITY LIMITS: Community Development.
RECEIVED AND FILED THE INFORMATIONAL 10-DAY REPORT REQUIRED UNDER GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 65858(D), DESCRIBING THE MEASURES TAKEN TO
ALLEVIATE THE CONDITIONS WHICH LED TO THE ADOPTION OF THE MORATORIUM
13) 2025 GENERAL PLAN AND HOUSING ELEMENT ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORTS: Community Development.
RECEIVED AND FILED THE 2025 GENERAL PLAN AND HOUSING ELEMENT ANNUAL
PROGRESS REPORTS
14) FISCAL YEAR 2026-2027 INVESTMENT POLICY: Finance.
ADOPT ED INVESTMENT POLICY FOR THE INVESTMENT OF PUBLIC FUNDS OF THE CITY
OF DOWNEY AND ITS RELATED ENTITIES
15) APPROVAL OF A STREET CLOSURE APPLICATION REQUEST BY THE DOWNEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE FOR THE 32ND ANNUAL DOWNEY STREET FAIRE EVENT: Administration.
APPROVED THE STREET CLOSURE PERMIT FOR SATURDAY, MAY 9, 2025, FROM 8:00 A.M. TO 11:00 P.M. TO ACCOMMODATE THE “32ND ANNUAL DOWNEY STREET FAIRE” TAKING PLACE FROM 1:00 P.M. TO 8:00 P.M.
OTHER BUSINESS
Item No. 11 was taken out of order.
11) ADOPTION OF RESOLUTIONS PERTAINING TO THE SUBMISSION OF A BALLOT MEASURE AMENDING THE CITY CHARTER TO DOWNEY VOTERS AT THE NOVEMBER 3, 2026 GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION: City Clerk/City Attorney.
1. ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 26-8348, CALLING FOR THE SUBMISSION OF A BALLOT MEASURE FOR THE NOVEMBER 3, 2026 GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION TO THE QUALIFIED VOTERS CONCERNING AMENDMENT TO THE DOWNEY CITY CHARTER;
2. ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 26-8349, PROVIDING FOR THE FILING OF PRIMARY AND
REBUTTAL ARGUMENTS AND SETTING RULES FOR THE FILING OF WRITTEN
ARGUMENTS CONCERNING AMENDMENT TO THE DOWNEY CITY CHARTER TO BE SUBMITTED AT THE NOVEMBER 3, 2026 GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION; AND,
3. ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 26-8350, REQUESTING THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF
THE COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES TO CONSOLIDATE A GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION TO BE HELD ON NOVEMBER 3, 2026 WITH THE STATEWIDE GENERAL
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ELECTION TO BE HELD ON THAT DATE PURSUANT TO SECTION 10403 OF THE
ELECTIONS CODE
Mayor Frometa stated that she pulled Item No. 11 to express concern over the approximately $314,500 cost for election services for the ballot measure pertaining to amending the Downey City Charter. She stated she does not believe it is in the City’s best financial interest to proceed at this time given potential economic uncertainty, suggesting it could be reconsidered in the future.
Council Member Pemberton expressed concern regarding the high cost of the proposed Charter amendment measure and suggested tabling the item. She questioned whether recent redistricting updates must be incorporated into the Charter or could be addressed separately, and requested staff evaluate options for potential cost savings before proceeding.
City Attorney Funk clarified that the transition from a four-plus-one system to a five-district system was lawfully adopted by Council Ordinance in response to the California Voting Rights Act, and while the proposed Charter amendments would clean up and align the Charter language, it is not required, as the new district structure will take effect regardless at the upcoming election.
Council Member Pemberton asked whether any Charter updates are necessary at this time or if there is an advantage to proceeding now. City Attorney Funk responded that there is no legal requirement to move forward with the amendments and explained they are intended to modernize and streamline the Charter, while noting that some provisions such as allowing Council appointments to fill vacancies instead of requiring special elections could provide practical benefits.
Mayor Pro Tem Ortiz asked whether pursuing only a specific Charter amendment would reduce the overall cost. City Clerk Duarte confirmed that any measure placed on the same ballot as the Council election would incur the same cost.
Mayor Frometa stated the Charter Review Committee was prompted by the cost of special elections following a recall and expressed interest in determining the cost of a limited amendment focused on that issue rather than the full package. City Attorney Funk responded that there is time before the July deadline to explore alternative ballot measures and advised the Council may narrow the scope while also considering other amendments identified through the Charter Ad Hoc Committee review.
Council Member Sosa acknowledged the Ad Hoc Committee’s thorough Charter review but expressed concern over the high cost, noting recalls are rare and likely a one-time occurrence. He recommended completing the budget process before considering any Charter amendments.
Council Member Trujillo asked whether redistricting was included in the proposed amendments.
City Attorney Funk confirmed it was included as a recognition of the previously approved Ordinance and clarified that the five-district system will take effect regardless of whether the City Charter is amended.
It was moved by Mayor Frometa, seconded by Council Member Trujillo, and carried 5-0, to table Item No. 11.
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ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
16) DISCUSSION OF AMENDMENT TO CITY CHARTER REGARDING COMPENSATION FOR CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS: City Attorney/ City Clerk.
1. DISCUSS AND DETERMINE AN AMENDMENT TO THE CITY CHARTER REGARDING
COMPENSATION FOR CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS TO BE SUBMITTED TO DOWNEY
VOTERS FOR THEIR CONSIDERATION AS A SEPARATE BALLOT MEASURE AT THE NOVEMBER 3, 2026 GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION; AND,
2. FOR ANY CHARTER AMENDMENT APPROVED FOR VOTER CONSIDERATION,
PROVIDE DIRECTION TO CITY STAFF TO PREPARE THE ELECTIONS RESOLUTIONS
NECESSARY TO PLACE THE CHARTER AMENDMENT ON THE BALLOT
City Attorney John Funk provided the staff report for Item No. 16. He presented a proposed City Charter amendment regarding Council Member compensation, explaining that the current Charter prohibits compensation and that any change would require voter approval. City Attorney Funk outlined four options for Council consideration, including establishing compensation at $1,000 per month either directly in the Charter with or without inflation adjustments, or authorizing compensation to be set by ordinance with or without limits tied to state law. City Attorney Funk clarified that the measure would be presented to voters as a separate ballot item. He identified the fiscal impacts, including an estimated $41,500 cost to place the measure on the ballot and approximately $60,000 in annual costs if compensation is approved.
Mayor Frometa acknowledged concerns about the cost of placing measures before voters but explained the discussion on Council compensation stems from an outdated reimbursement framework and the evolving demands of the role. She emphasized the need to make Council service more accessible and noted the increasing responsibilities and sacrifices involved. She stated that adopting a modest monthly compensation by ordinance could be reasonable moving forward.
Mayor Pro Tem Ortiz expressed concern that increasing compensation without voter input could appear to bypass the public. He supported further discussion and potentially allowing voters to decide.
He also asked whether reimbursements require receipts or have a limit. City Attorney Funk responded that reimbursements are currently set as a fixed lump sum by ordinance. He explained that they are intended to cover all expenses, do not require receipts, and may be adjusted by ordinance.
City Manager Bradley clarified that while receipts are not required, they may be submitted, but reimbursement cannot exceed the amount authorized by ordinance.
Mayor Pro Tem Ortiz asked about shifting from a lump sum reimbursement to a receipt-based system. City Attorney Funk explained that while a receipt-based approach is possible, the current practice has long been a lump sum reimbursement method.
Council Member Pemberton noted that current reimbursement levels are lower than comparable cities and below state benchmarks. She expressed support for increasing compensation to offset costs and improve accessibility for future Council Members. She also suggested pausing consideration due to the cost of placing the measure on the ballot.
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Council Member Sosa opposed placing the measure on the ballot, stating it would be a waste of funds and unlikely to pass. He expressed concern about combining a salary with a reimbursement stipend. He acknowledged the workload but emphasized that Council Members understand the commitment and stated that any increase to reimbursement should be clearly justified.
Council Member Trujillo agreed and stated he did not support placing the amendment on the ballot. He expressed concern that the measure would not pass and stated he would like to make a motion not to place the compensation amendment on the ballot.
It was moved by Council Member Trujillo, seconded by Council Member Pemberton, and carried 5-0, not to place the ballot measure related to compensation for City Council Members on the ballot at the November 3, 2026 General Municipal Election.
17) DISCUSSION REGARDING THE FEASIBILITY OF A TIERED CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FEE STRUCTURE FOR SMALL BUSINESSES: Community Development.
DISCUSSED THE CURRENT TIERED CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT PROCESSES AND
PROVIDED DIRECTION TO STAFF ON WHETHER TO EXPAND THE MINOR CONDITIONAL
USE PERMIT CATEGORIES AND INITIATE A ZONING TEXT AMENDMENT (ZTA)
Director of Community Development Irma Huitron provided the staff report for Item No. 17. She presented an overview of the City’s current conditional use permit and minor conditional use permit process. She explained that Council previously directed staff to evaluate a tiered fee structure to better support small businesses. Director Huitron stated that the current process includes a conditional use permit reviewed by the Planning Commission and a minor conditional use permit reviewed administratively by the Director or designee. She explained that minor conditional use permits are intended for lower impact uses and do not require a Public Hearing. She explained that the current conditional use permit fee is $7,571 and is subsidized by the City at 40%. The minor conditional use permit fee is $1,263 and is subsidized by approximately 76%. Director Huitron shared that staff identified opportunities to expand minor conditional use permit eligibility for certain lower impact uses. Examples included valet parking, broadcasting and video studios, tutoring centers, daycare centers, animal boarding, and similar commercial recreation uses such as fitness, dance, and boxing studios. She clarified that higher impact uses would remain subject to a conditional use permit. These include businesses serving alcohol, establishments with amplified music or live entertainment after 10:00 p.m., drive through restaurants, bars, nightclubs, bowling alleys, skating rinks, and similar higher occupancy uses. Director Huitron added that if directed by Council, staff would prepare a zoning text amendment.
The effort is anticipated to begin July 2026, with Planning Commission and City Council review expected around September and October 2026. She noted the amendment would require an appropriation of $18,000 from the General Fund to the Community Development operating budget.
Mayor Frometa expressed support for the proposed changes to the CUP process. She stated the changes would help lessen the burden on small businesses and support the City’s goal of being business friendly. She added that allowing eligible lower impact uses to proceed through the minor CUP process would simplify the process and reduce unnecessary fees and costs.
Council Member Sosa thanked Director Huitron and staff for their work and analysis. He stated the issue was raised in response to concerns from small business owners. He expressed support for moving away from a one size fits all CUP fee structure and expanding the minor CUP land use categories.
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Mayor Pro Tem Ortiz expressed support for the item and asked why the public notice distance differs between a CUP and a minor CUP. Director Huitron explained that minor CUPs apply to lower impact uses that typically have fewer traffic, environmental, or neighborhood impacts and are usually CEQA exempt. She stated that CUPs require a larger 500-foot notice because they involve uses with greater potential impacts and a higher level of review.
Mayor Pro Tem Ortiz asked how much processing time businesses could save by avoiding Planning Commission review. Director Huitron stated that a complete minor CUP application would take a minimum of approximately 60 days, including time for one round of review or clarification and public notice.
Council Member Pemberton expressed support for modifying the CUP process and moving away from a one size fits all approach to better assist small businesses. She noted the City is attracting many new small businesses and highlighted that the City already subsidizes both CUP fees, including 40% for conditional use permits and a higher subsidy for minor conditional use permits.
It was moved by Mayor Frometa, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Ortiz, and carried 5-0, to expand the Minor Conditional Use Permit categories and initiate a Zoning Text Amendment.
CITY COUNCIL MEMBER ANNOUNCEMENTS; REQUESTS FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS;
CONFERENCE/MEETING REPORTS
Mayor Pro Tem Ortiz welcomed Mayor Frometa back. He reported attending the Youth Vendor Fair and noted the event has grown from 15 vendors to 30 youth vendors. He thanked staff for supporting the event and stated it helps teach youth about financial literacy and the value of money. Mayor Pro Tem Ortiz reported attending Friday Night Flicks at Golden Park and the Bunny Patch event. He encouraged residents to follow the City’s social media accounts for information on future events. Mayor Pro Tem Ortiz attended the Neighborhood Block Captain meeting at the Library and noted the meeting was well attended. He suggested holding future meetings at a park or another location with more time for questions. Mayor Pro Tem Ortiz reported attending the annual Police Officer and Firefighter of the Year Luncheon and congratulated the honorees. He reported attending the Gangs Out of Downey (G.O.O.D.) Officer Ricardo “Ricky” Galvez Memorial Scholarship Gala and Mayor Pro Tem Ortiz requested that the Council have a discussion to consider AJUA’s request to host El Grito at the Downey Theatre. The request was seconded by Mayor Frometa.
Council Member Sosa welcomed Mayor Frometa back. Council Member Sosa reported attending the City of STEM and congratulated Director Dickow and his team for hosting another successful event.
He highlighted City of STEM originated in Downey and serves as the official science festival of Los Angeles (L.A.) County. He noted the event included approximately 250 exhibitors at the Natural History Museum and Exposition Park and was well attended. Council Member Sosa reported attending the inaugural Downey Police Department Awards and acknowledged Chief Loughner, the Downey Police Department, and the Downey Police Officers’ Association for recognizing Officers and their families. He expressed appreciation for the Officers’ service and the work they do for the community.
Council Member Pemberton welcomed Mayor Frometa back and recognized her newly appointed Public Works Committee Member Juan Soto. She reported attending the monthly Vector Control Mosquito Board Meeting and stated there have been no human West Nile virus cases year to date.
Council Member Pemberton reported attending the Veterans Subcommittee meeting and noted a
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presentation from the L.A. County Department of Mental Health regarding the Veteran Peer-to-Peer Network. She also reported attending the G.O.O.D. Officer Ricardo “Ricky” Galvez Memorial Scholarship Gala, where seven seniors were recognized with scholarships. Council Member Pemberton reported touring four shelters with SEAACA staff and stated the Board of Trustees is aware of deficiencies and is working to improve policies, staffing, and operations. She noted that the Downey Cat Spay and Neuter Reimbursement Program has issued 15 reimbursements since launching. Council Member Pemberton highlighted the completion of HVAC improvements at the Downey Police Department. She thanked staff for the Easter Bunny event and congratulated the Columbia Memorial Space Center on its Artemis II Landing Watch Party. She also thanked the Police Department for increasing traffic enforcement and requested that an item be placed on a future agenda to discuss possible action regarding Public Works Committee Member Lissette Rivera’s continued distribution of unauthorized City business cards and use of the City logo. The request was seconded by Council Member Sosa.
Council Member Trujillo reported attending the groundbreaking for the Downtown Downey Archway and stated the project will support the City’s marketing and branding efforts. He requested that staff review the pros and cons of designating the blue agave as the City’s official plant. The request was seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Ortiz.
Mayor Frometa addressed recent threats of violence directed at her and her family and stated that violent rhetoric and threats are not protected speech. She emphasized that public service should not come with fear for personal or family safety and called on the community to reject threats and violence without exception. Mayor Frometa stated that Council seats are nonpartisan and urged her Council colleagues to avoid political labels. She stated that Council Members should be able to disagree without being disagreeable. Mayor Frometa requested a review of the City’s Code of Conduct and Code of Ethics for Council Members, Commissioners, and Committee Members. The request was seconded by Council Member Pemberton. Mayor Frometa recognized the Police Chief, Police Department, and Fire Department for their continued service and requested additional speed enforcement on major corridors, including Florence Ave. between the 605 Freeway and Lakewood Blvd.
CITY MANAGER/STAFF MEMBER COMMENTS
City Manager Bradley announced that there were no comments from staff.
ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Frometa adjourned the City Council Meeting – Open Session at 9:27 p.m. in memory of Sheriff Deputy Levi Vargas, 30, 11-year veteran of the Los Angeles County sheriff's department San Dimas Station, who passed away after a medical emergency while participating in the Baker to Las Vegas relay race; and, Detective Randy Hoppert, six-year veteran of the Tulare County Sheriff's Office and Veteran of the United States Navy, who succumbed to his injuries after being shot while responding to an eviction notice call.
MARIA ALICIA DUARTE, CMC CLAUDIA M. FROMETA
City Clerk Mayor