Minutes
Lakewood City Council
Regular Meeting held
June 23, 2026
MEETING WAS CALLED TO ORDER at 7:31 p.m. by Mayor Chase in the Council Chambers at the Civic Center, 5000 Clark Avenue, Lakewood, California.
INVOCATION was offered by Reverend Petero Taufagu, Vai O Le Ola Church PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE was led by Scouting America Cub Scout Pack 134 ROLL CALL: PRESENT: Mayor Cassandra Chase
Vice Mayor Jeff Wood
Council Member David Arellano
Council Member Steve Croft
Council Member Todd Rogers
ANNOUNCEMENTS AND PRESENTATIONS:
Mayor Chase 1) announced that the meeting would be adjourned in memory of a) Detric Green-Barber; and b) former City Council Member Diane DuBois; 2) highlighted the a) Juneteenth commemoration held on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at Monte Verde Park; and b) upcoming Lakewood Block Party to be held on Saturday, June 27, 2026; and 3) recognized Dr. Maria Silva-Palacios on her appointment to the Los Angeles County Alcohol and Other Drugs Commission.
Council Member Croft extended his condolences to the DuBois family, noting that Council Member DuBois represented both the City and region on numerous boards and commissions.
Vice Mayor Wood extended his condolences to the DuBois family, further describing Council Member DuBois as a mentor in regional leadership whose legacy will continue to benefit the City.
Council Member Rogers 1) extended condolences to the DuBois family, noting that Council Member DuBois was part of the generation that helped build the Lakewood community and was a fierce advocate for the City; and 2) regarding the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) incident near the Lakewood Sheriff’s Station, stated that the City was unaware of the incident until after it occurred, further explaining that the City has contacted federal officials to obtain additional information.
City Council Minutes
June 23, 2026
ANNOUNCEMENTS AND PRESENTATIONS – Continued
Council Member Arellano 1) extended condolences to the DuBois family and thanked Council Member DuBois for her years of service to the City; 2) regarding the ICE incident, a) reiterated that the City was not aware of the incident until after it occurred; b) commended the Los Angeles County Fire Department for rendering aid during the incident; and c) expressed frustration regarding the lack of communication from federal officials, reiterating that the City continues to seek additional information; 3) expressed appreciation to the residents who rendered aid to those involved in a vehicle collision on Del Amo Boulvard; and 4) noted that this would be Council Member Croft’s final full City Council meeting and presented him a gift on behalf of the City Council.
For the record, relative to the ICE incident, City Manager McCormack 1) reiterated that the City was unaware of the incident until after it occurred; and 2) confirmed that the City contacted Representative Garcia’s office to obtain additional information and was advised to submit a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request, which staff will do.
PUBLIC COMMENT ON ITEMS IN THE AGENDA:
Bill Baca, resident, expressed concerns relative to Item 3.1 (Annual Streets and Alley Resurfacing and Traffic Calming Pilot Project Findings and Recommendations), stating that 1) stops signs have been effective in calming traffic, expressing the opinion that the proposed improvements are inconvenient; 2) the survey data appeared incomplete, noting that although he lives near Palo Verde Avenue and Candlewood Street, he did not receive a survey; and 3) the City should conduct a more comprehensive study involving residents directly affected, further requesting that the item be “tabled” for thirty to sixty days.
Philip Norris, resident, spoke in support of Item 3.1 (Annual Streets and Alley Resurfacing and Traffic Calming Pilot Project Findings and Recommendations), 1) expressing the opinion that the traffic circles have been effective; and 2) requested the City consider a) modifying the bicycle lane striping on Palo Verde Avenue and Del Amo Boulevard to provide clear lane delineation, similar to the cities of Long Beach and Cerritos; b) widening the parking lanes on Palo Verde Avenue as “motor trucks” exceeding the width permitted by City Ordinance regularly use the roadway; and c) installing traffic circles at the intersections of Palo Verde Avenue and Harvey Way, and Harvey Way and Los Coyotes Diagonal, to help alleviate traffic congestion.
Mark Cooper, resident, spoke in support of Item 3.1 (Annual Streets and Alley Resurfacing and Traffic Calming Pilot Project Findings and Recommendations), stating that 1) the temporary improvements along Palo Verde Avenue have reduced speeding and improved driveway access for residents; and 2) traffic circles generally improve safety as drivers are more likely to navigate them at slower speeds than run through stop signs.
City Council Minutes
June 23, 2026
ROUTINE ITEMS:
For the record, relative to RI-5 (Meeting Reports and Authorizations Pursuant to AB134), Vice Mayor Wood noted a clerical correction to the Agenda report to reflect that he attended a retreat in his capacity as Vice Chair of the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) Community, Economic, and Human Development Committee.
It was moved by Vice Mayor Wood, seconded by Council Member Arellano, and carried unanimously by the following roll call vote, to approve the balance of the actions stipulated on the Routine Items, as amended:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS – Wood, Croft, Arellano, Rogers, and Mayor Chase RI-1 Approval of Minutes of the Meetings held June 2 and June 9, 2026 RI-2 Approval of Personnel Transactions
RI-3 Approval of Registers of Demands
RI-4 Approval of May Monthly Report of Investment Transactions RI-5 Approval of Meeting Reports and Authorizations Pursuant to AB1234 RI-6 Approval of Agreements with TRB+ Associates and Bureau Veritas for Building Official and Building and Safety Services
RI-7 Approval of Resolution No. 2026-29 – Adding a Job Classification to Attachment A, Schedule B of Resolution No. 2024-6 Pertaining to HourlyRated Part-Time Employees and Enacting a Personnel Resolution Establishing the Compensation, Rules, and Regulations Pertaining to HourlyRated Part-Time Employees RI-8 Approval of Resolution No. 2026-30 – Adding a Job Classification in Attachment B of Resolution No. 2024-25.
RI-9 Approval of 2025 Water Quality Consumer Confidence Report RI-10 Approval of Tract Map 84926, Located at 20707 Pioneer Boulevard and Designation of City Surveyor
RI-11 Approval of Purchase of Residential Street Name Signs City-Wide City Council Minutes
June 23, 2026
1.1 ADOPTION OF 2025 URBAN WATER MANAGEMENT PLAN AND WATER SHORTAGE CONTINGENCY PLAN.
Mayor Chase introduced the item.
Director of Water Resources Nguyen 1) provided a PowerPoint presentation of the Agenda report; and 2) along with City Manager McCormack, responded to Council Members’ questions and comments.
For the record, 1) Council Member Croft thanked staff for their work, noting the importance of maintaining eligibility for grant funding, and expressed support for the recommendation; and 2) Vice Mayor Wood expressed the opinion that Lakewood has one of the best water departments in the region, highlighting the City’s well-maintained infrastructure and reliable water supply.
Following discussion, Mayor Chase opened the public hearing at 8:25 p.m. and called for anyone in the audience wishing to address the City Council on the matter.
Ben Chavez, resident, expressed concern regarding residents served by Golden State Water Company and questioned whether the proposed plan would result in additional costs for those customers.
In response to the comments provided by Ben Chavez, 1) Mayor Chase suggested he speak with Director of Water Resources Ngyuen; and 2) City Manager McCormack clarified that the Lakewood Municipal Water Utility does not bill Golden State Water Company customers, further explaining that portions of the City continue to receive service from Golden State Water Company based on historical service boundaries established at incorporation.
There being no one else in the audience wishing to address the City Council on the matter, Mayor Chase closed the public hearing at 8:29 p.m.
For the record, it was moved by Council Member Croft, seconded by Vice Mayor Wood, and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, to 1) adopt Resolution No. 2026-31 for the 2025 Urban Water Management Plan and Water Shortage Contingency Plan; and 2) authorize staff to submit adopted 2025 Urban Water Management Plan and Water Shortage Contingency Plan to State Department of Water Resources:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS – Wood, Croft, Arellano, Rogers, and Mayor Chase City Council Minutes
June 23, 2026
3.1 ANNUAL STREETS AND ALLEY RESURFACING AND TRAFFIC CALMING PILOT PROJECT FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS.
For the record, 1) Mayor Chase introduced the item; and 2) City Manager McCormack noted that the item had been discussed during the 6:00 p.m.
Study Session held in the Executive Board Room.
Director of Public Works Pickler 1) provided a PowerPoint presentation of the Agenda report; and 2) along with City Manager McCormack, responded to Council Members’ questions and comments.
For the record, 1) Council Member Rogers a) thanked staff for their work, noting that the survey results demonstrated community support for retaining the traffic calming improvements; b) stated that the pilot project was initiated in response to concerns regarding pedestrian safety, speeding, and aggressive driving, and noted that the evaluation demonstrated reductions in those concerns; and c) suggested conducting additional public outreach regarding the final project design to provide residents with a greater sense of ownership; and 2) Council Member Arellano thanked staff for their efforts, stating that the improvements were developed in response to longstanding traffic safety concerns expressed by residents.
Following discussion, Director Pickler 1) explained that refinements to the permanent design at Palo Verde Avenue could include a) relocation of the northbound bus stop at Candlewood Street; b) modifying Candlewood Street to one lane in each direction near Carfax Avenue; c) minor modifications to the roundabout; and d) revisions to signage along the project corridor, as needed; and 2) explained that refinements to the permanent design at Studebaker Road could include a) installation of mountable curbs and hardscaped roundabouts; b) adjustments to the roundabouts to better accommodate trucks, buses, and other large vehicles; c) additional signage and pavement markings to improve driver guidance; d) improved access for landscaping maintenance and street sweeping; e) modifications to parking lot geometry to reduce vehicle speeds; and f) construction of Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant curb ramps.
For the record, 1) Council Member Croft thanked staff for their work and noted that the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Committee reviewed the traffic analysis and survey results and recommended proceeding with the proposed improvements; 2) Vice Mayor Wood a) stated that change often creates confusion but emphasized that public education is important and that the improvements would enhance traffic safety; and b) suggested evaluating the effects of the project on nearby arterial streets; and 3) Mayor Chase commended staff for their responsiveness in refining the project based on resident feedback, reiterating that the CIP Committee supported moving forward with the proposed modifications.
City Council Minutes
June 23, 2026
3.1 ANNUAL STREETS AND ALLEY RESURFACING AND TRAFFIC CALMING PILOT PROJECT FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS – Continued
In response to questions and comments provided by Council Member Rogers and Vice Mayor Wood, City Manager McCormack confirmed that staff could conduct additional outreach regarding the final design and evaluate potential impacts on surrounding arterial streets.
Following discussion, it was moved by Council Member Croft, seconded by Council Member Arellano, and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, to 1) find that the Palo Verde Avenue and Studebaker Road Traffic Calming Projects have successfully achieved the intended traffic calming and safety objectives and approve the incorporation of the recommended refinements identified through the pilot evaluation process; and 2) authorize staff to proceed with final design and construction of the permanent traffic calming improvements at Palo Verde Avenue and Studebaker Road utilizing the previously approved funding and construction authorizations and incorporating modifications identified through the pilot program evaluation:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS – Wood, Croft, Arellano, Rogers, and Mayor Chase
3.2 UPDATE TO LAKEWOOD’S MASTER TREE LIST AND TREE PLANTING PLAN.
Mayor Chase introduced the item.
Director of Public Works Pickler 1) provided a verbal report of the Agenda report; and 2) along with Tree and Hardscape Supervisor Hunt, responded to Council Members’ questions and comments.
For the record, 1) Council Member Croft noted that the proposed updates continue the City’s longstanding efforts to reduce sidewalk damage while maintaining its Tree City USA designation; 2) Council Member Rogers stated that maintaining the Tree City USA designation is an important achievement and that the proposed updates balance preservation of the City’s urban forest with the flexibility needed to address changing conditions; and 3) Mayor Chase commented that trees continue to enhance the City’s health, sustainability, and quality of life, further expressing appreciation for the City’s continued commitment to tree planting.
At the request of Vice Mayor Wood, Director Pickler confirmed that the Master Tree List and Tree Planting Plan would be made available on the City’s website.
City Council Minutes
June 23, 2026
3.2 UPDATE TO LAKEWOOD’S MASTER TREE LIST AND TREE PLANTING PLAN – Continued
It was moved by Council Member Croft, seconded by Vice Mayor Wood, and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, to adopt the updated Master Tree List, Tree Planting Plan, and Residential Parkway Tree Policy dated June 23, 2026:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS – Wood, Croft, Arellano, Rogers, and Mayor Chase
3.3 RESOLUTION NO. 2026-32 – DECLARING JULY AS PARKS MAKE LIFE BETTER! MONTH.
Mayor Chase introduced the item.
Director of Recreation and Community Services Frost 1) provided a PowerPoint presentation of the Agenda report; and 2) responded to Council Members’ questions and comments.
For the record, 1) Vice Mayor Wood emphasized the important role Recreation and Community Services plays in enhancing residents’ daily lives through its programs and active and passive recreational spaces; 2) Council Member Rogers highlighted that the City allocates nearly equal levels of funding to Public Safety, Public Works, and Recreation and Community Services, reflecting the City of Lakewood’s longstanding commitment to maintaining a high quality of life; and 3) Mayor Chase reiterated that Recreation and Community Services provides opportunities for residents of all ages to participate in programs and activities that strengthen the community.
In response to questions and comments provided by Council Member Arellano, Director Frost reported that approximately 1,500 youth athletes attended the Lakewood Youth Sports Opening Day ceremonies, representing the highest attendance since before the COVID-19 pandemic.
Following discussion, it was moved by Council Member Croft, seconded by Council Member Arellano, and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, to adopt Resolution No. 2026-32:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS – Wood, Croft, Arellano, Rogers, and Mayor Chase City Council Minutes
June 23, 2026
3.4 AMENDMENT NO. 5 TO AGREEMENT FOR EMPLOYMENT OF CITY MANAGER.
Mayor Chase introduced the item.
Deputy City Attorney Skolnik provided a verbal report of the Agenda report.
For the record, Council Member Arellano thanked City Manager McCormack for his leadership and service to the City.
It was moved by Vice Mayor Wood, seconded by Council Member Croft, and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, to approve Amendment No. 5 to Agreement for Employment of City Manager:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS – Wood, Croft, Arellano, Rogers, and Mayor Chase For the record, City Manager McCormack thanked the City Council for their continued leadership and support, noting that it is an honor to serve the community.
LAKEWOOD HOUSING SUCCESSOR AGENCY
1 REGISTER OF DEMANDS
It was moved by Council Member Rogers, seconded by Council Member Arellano, and unanimously carried by the following roll call vote, to approve the register of demands:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS – Wood, Croft, Arellano, Rogers, and Mayor Chase ORAL COMMUNICATIONS:
Brittni Reyes, Helpline Youth Counseling, 1) stated that she is a representative of Helpline Youth Counseling, a non-profit organization that promotes individual, family, and community health, well-being, prosperity, and equity; 2) explained that the South East Community Alliance (SECA) administers prevention and community safety initiatives, including the safe disposal of unused medications, noting that SECA has partnered with four pharmacies in the City of Lakewood to provide convenient medication drop-off locations; and 3) encouraged the City to partner with SECA to expand access to safe medication disposal sites.
City Council Minutes
June 23, 2026
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS – Continued
Philip Norris, resident, 1) asked how many full-time employees are dedicated to homeless services, what metrics are used to determine staffing levels, and how many contacts staff make with individuals experiencing homelessness each month; 2) stated that a comparison between the Cerritos Sheriff's Station and the Cypress Police Department indicated the latter costs approximately half as much, further questioning whether the City of Lakewood has conducted a similar comparison; 3) questioned whether the Recreation and Community Services Department offers programs addressing issues affecting young men; and 4) stated that links included in recent City Council agendas do not function on Android devices.
Bill Baca, resident, extended condolences to the DuBois family, stating that her passing is a significant loss to the City.
Dr. Ahmed Rafi, resident, 1) extended condolences to the DuBois family; 2) expressed gratitude to the City and local nonprofit organizations for their support following the passing of his wife; 3) thanked Council Member Rogers and Council Member Croft for the opportunity to serve on the Measure L Citizens Oversight Committee; and 4) requested that the City minimize the loss of street parking and residential privacy associated with Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs).
Gisela Nily, resident, 1) expressed concern regarding the current political environment and public complacency; and 2) suggested installing cameras in front of City Hall and the Lakewood Sheriff's Station.
Susan Singer, resident, expressed concerns regarding the recent ICE incident near the Lakewood Sheriff's Station, stating that 1) she does not feel safe in the community; 2) Lakewood Indivisible has peacefully advocated for civil rights, democracy, and nonviolence; 3) she watched a video of the incident and was horrified; and 4) other incidents have occurred outside the Lakewood Sheriff's Station but have gone largely unnoticed.
Heather Rodrigez, resident, expressed concerns regarding the recent ICE incident near the Lakewood Sheriff’s Station, stating that 1) she appreciates the City’s investigation into the matter; 2) had the incident not been recorded, residents may not have known it occurred or been able to identify the individual to offer assistance; 3) the City and Lakewood Sheriff’s Station should consider measures to mitigate potential public safety concerns associated with ICE activities occurring near public facilities, noting that the Sheriff’s Department should be aware when use of force incidents occur immediately outside the station; 4) Sheriff’s Deputies can serve as witnesses and help deescalate situations; 5) the City should consider establishing “ICE free zones” through a City Council Resolution and ensure City staff and Sheriff’s personnel monitor those areas; and 6) the City and Sheriff’s Department should work collaboratively on strategies moving forward.
City Council Minutes
June 23, 2026
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS – Continued
Kay Ewing Donato, resident, read a poem regarding ICE.
Anna Pinnolis, expressed concerns regarding the ICE incident near the Lakewood Sheriff's Station, stating that 1) officers were not in danger and the individual being detained was complying with commands; 2) although the City has remained neutral regarding immigration enforcement, the incident occurring directly outside of the Sheriff's Station adjacent to City Hall does not reflect that neutrality; and 3) the City Council should consider adopting a Resolution establishing “ICE free zones” within municipal buildings, where ICE agents would be denied access without a warrant.
Vanesha Davis, resident, expressed concerns regarding ADUs and parking, stating that 1) ADUs have negatively impacted residents' quality of life by reducing available street parking; 2) while she understands the City must comply with State mandates, the impacts of reduced parking on residents have not been adequately addressed; 3) she is now required to park farther from her home, creating safety concerns; and 4) residents without driveways should be allowed to install them where feasible to alleviate the parking issues.
In response to comments provided by Vanesha Davis, Mayor Chase suggested she speak with Director of Community Development Cervantes.
Stephanie Tellonez, resident, expressed concerns regarding the ICE incident near the Lakewood Sheriff's Station, stating that 1) she appreciates the City's investigation into the matter; 2) public trust is undermined by ICE activities, expressing the opinion that trust is essential for civic participation and cooperation; and 3) while she is proud of the community, the City should preserve that trust by welcoming public scrutiny of how incidents are addressed.
Matthew Mikuri, resident, expressed concerns regarding the ICE incident near the Lakewood Sheriff's Station, stating that 1) ICE engages in harassment and racial profiling of residents; 2) the incident occurred in the Sheriff's Station parking lot adjacent to City Hall; however, a public statement has not been issued acknowledging it; 3) the incident raises broader public safety concerns; and 4) the City Council should take action.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to be brought before the City Council, Mayor Chase adjourned the meeting at 9:54 p.m. to Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in the Weingart Ballroom. A moment of silence was observed in memory of Detric Green-Barber and Diane Dubois.
Respectfully submitted,
Dakota Wallace, CMC
City Clerk