Agenda packet — Lawndale City Council, October 19, 2026

CITY OF LAWNDALE

AGENDA OF THE LAWNDALE

CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING
Monday, October 19, 2026, 6:30 PM
Council Chambers
14717 Burin Ave
Lawndale, CA 90260
How to Participate in the Meeting:

Any person who wishes to address the City Council regarding an agenda item or any matter within the City Council's subject matter jurisdiction, whether participating in person or remotely, is invited, but is not required, to complete a Public Meeting Speaker Card and submit it to the City Clerk prior to the oral communications portion of the meeting.

Individuals participating remotely may submit a completed speaker card by email to [email protected]. A speaker card is provided solely to help ensure the speaker's name is accurately reflected in the meeting minutes and, if necessary, to provide contact information for staff follow-up.

How to Attend the Meeting:

Members of the public may attend the meeting in person or remotely using the Zoom meeting information provided on this agenda.

Members of the public may observe the meeting live on YouTube “Lawndale CityTV”, the CityTV Website Channel 3, and Lawndale Community TV (Spectrum Channel 22 & Frontier Channel 29).

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Copies of this agenda are available prior to the meeting in the Lawndale City Hall foyer or on the City website. Interested parties may contact the City Clerk’s Department at (310) 973-3213 for clarification regarding any individual agenda item.”
This Agenda is subject to revision up to 72 hours before the meeting.

A. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL
B. CEREMONIALS (Flag Salute and Inspiration)
C. PUBLIC SAFETY REPORT

1. Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Update

2. Los Angeles County Fire Department Update
D. PRESENTATIONS

3. Legislative Update
— Legislative update provided by Assemblymember Tina McKinnor.

E. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA (Public Comments) F. COMMENTS FROM COUNCIL
G. CONSENT CALENDAR
Items 4 through 8 will be considered and acted upon under one motion unless a City Councilmember removes individual items for further City Council consideration or explanation.

4. Motion to read by title only and waive further reading of all ordinances listed on the Agenda — Recommendation: that the City Council that the City Council read by title only and waive further reading of all ordinances listed on the agenda.

5. Accounts Payable Register
Department: Finance
— Recommendation: Staff recommends that City Council adopts Resolution No. 2610-049 authorizing the payment of certain claims and demands in the amount of $1,022,286.22.

6. Minutes of the City Council Regular Meeting - October 5, 2026 Department: City Clerk
— Recommendation: that the City Council approve the minutes.

7. Quarterly Investment Report for the Quarter Ended September 30, 2026 Department: Finance
— Staff recommends that the City Council receive and file the Quarterly Investment Report for the quarter ended September 30, 2026.

8. Consideration of Claim for Damage against the City
Department: Administrative Services
— Recommendation: that the City Council reject the claim filed by Belkis DeSantiago and instruct staff to process the appropriate correspondence to the claimant.

H. ADMINISTRATION

9. Formation of a Standing Committee for Parks and Green Space Department: City Manager's Office
— Recommendation: that the City Council 1.) Discuss the objectives of the standing committee; 2.) Name the standing committee; and 3.) Appoint two Councilmembers to serve on the standing committee; or 4.) Provide further direction to staff.

10. Approval of Amendment No. 1 for contract services agreement with MV Cheng & Associates for financial consulting services
Department: Finance
— Recommendation: that the City Council approve Amendment #1 for financial consulting services with MV Cheng & Associates with a not-to-exceed amount of $75,000 and a termination date of December 31, 2026, in a form approved by the City Attorney.

I. CITY MANAGER REPORT
J. ITEMS FROM CITY COUNCILMEMBERS

11. Discuss Communication with Metro to Obtain Easement for Condon Avenue Right-of-Way Department: City Manager's Office
— Requested by Mayor Pullen-Miles.

12. Report of Attendance at Meetings
K. ADJOURNMENT
The next regularly scheduled meeting of the City Council will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Monday, November 2, 2026, in the Lawndale City Hall Council Chamber, 14717 Burin Avenue, Lawndale, California.

It is the intention of the City of Lawndale to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in all respects. If, as an attendee or a participant at this meeting, you need special assistance beyond what is normally provided, we will attempt to accommodate you in every reasonable manner. Please contact the City Clerk Department (310) 973-3213 prior to the meeting to inform us of your particular needs and to determine if accommodation is feasible. Please advise us at that time if you will need accommodation to attend or participate in meetings on a regular basis.

I hereby certify under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the agenda for the regular meeting of the City Council to be held on Monday, October 19, 2026, was posted no less than 72 hours prior to the meeting. /s/ Yvette Palomo
Yvette Palomo, Assistant City Clerk
Date Posted: October 15, 2026

CITY OF LAWNDALE
14717 BURIN AVENUE, LAWNDALE, CALIFORNIA 90260
PHONE (310) 973-3200 ♦ https://www.lawndale.ca.gov
DATE: October 19, 2026
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council
FROM: Juan Arauz, City Manager
PREPARED BY: Vanesa Alvarez, Administrative Assistant
SUBJECT: Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Update No supporting documentation was forwarded to the City Clerk Department for this item.

CITY OF LAWNDALE
14717 BURIN AVENUE, LAWNDALE, CALIFORNIA 90260
PHONE (310) 973-3200 ♦ https://www.lawndale.ca.gov
DATE: October 19, 2026
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council
FROM: Juan Arauz, City Manager
PREPARED BY: Vanesa Alvarez, Administrative Assistant
SUBJECT: Los Angeles County Fire Department Update
No supporting documentation was forwarded to the City Clerk Department for this item.

CITY OF LAWNDALE
14717 BURIN AVENUE, LAWNDALE, CALIFORNIA 90260
PHONE (310) 973-3200 ♦ https://www.lawndale.ca.gov
DATE: October 19, 2026
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council
FROM: Juan Arauz, City Manager
PREPARED BY: Yvette Palomo, Assistant City Clerk
SUBJECT: Legislative Update
Legislative update provided by Assemblymember Tina McKinnor. No supporting documentation was forwarded to the City Clerk Department for this item.

Motion to read by title only and waive further reading of all ordinances listed on the Agenda

RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the City Council read by title only and waive further reading of all ordinances listed on the agenda.

RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that City Council adopts Resolution No. 2610-049 authorizing the payment of certain claims and demands in the amount of $1,022,286.22.

Attachments
A. CC-2610-049 - AP Resolution - October 19, 2026.pdf

Vanesa Alvarez, Administrative Assistant
Yvette Palomo, Assistant City Clerk
SUBJECT: Minutes of the City Council Regular Meeting - October 5, 2026

BACKGROUND
Staff recommends that the City Council approve the minutes.

Attachments
A. Draft_Minutes_10-05-26

ATTACHMENT A
DRAFT
DRAFT
DRAFT
DRAFT
DRAFT
DRAFT
DRAFT
DRAFT
DRAFT

CITY OF LAWNDALE
14717 BURIN AVENUE, LAWNDALE, CALIFORNIA 90260
PHONE (310) 973-3200 ♦ https://www.lawndale.ca.gov
DATE: October 19, 2026
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council
FROM: Juan Arauz, City Manager
PREPARED BY: David Toledo , Accounting Manager
SUBJECT: Quarterly Investment Report for the Quarter Ended September 30, 2026

BACKGROUND
The attached Quarterly Investment Report for the quarter ended September 30, 2026, is provided to City Council per the City of Lawndale’s Investment Policy and State of California’s Government Code Section 53646.

STAFF REVIEW
As of September 30, 2026, the City had total cash and investments (cost basis) of $65,183,006 plus $2,168,482 cash with fiscal agent held in a trust for the Lawndale Redevelopment Agency’s Tax Allocation Bond 2009 issue, $1,150 in petty cash and $830,820 maintained in two retirement enhancement plans for PARS.

The Federal Reserve had held interest rates steady but recently did increase by 0.25%. The Federal Reserve held its’ September 15th meeting and the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) voted to increase the benchmark federal funds rate by 0.25%, bringing the range to 3.75% - 4.00%. The State Local Agency Investment Fund (LAIF) had an interest rate of 4.34% on September 30, 2025, and decreased to 3.83% as of September 30, 2026. Rates going forward are generally expected to remain stable with the current increase as we continue to experience high inflation rates. Inflation continues to remain high at over 3%. We continue to maintain a majority of cash in LAIF and the City’s checking account. For the quarter ended September 30, 2026, the City has remained very liquid with 77.89% of our portfolio in on-demand accounts.

The remainder of the portfolio includes 1.52% short-term (maturing in less than one year), 5.69% mid-term (one to three years maturity), and 14.90% long-term (maturing from three to five years) investments.

The City’s investments continue to remain intact and have not been affected by this volatility. We do not expect there to be any significant changes to our investments as we only purchase securities that we know we can hold on to until maturity at which time we will receive the full amount of the principal back from the issuer. As the market continues to change we will keep a close watch and take advantage of any upcoming investments. Cash in bank will be monitored and is expected that more will be used to purchase either bonds or CD’s to take advantage of interest to the extent possible. The goal is to maintain a healthy balance of cash while maximizing returns
The investment program provides sufficient liquidity to meet six months of estimated expenditures. All investments are in compliance with California state code 503600 and the City of Lawndale Investment policy.

LEGAL REVIEW
The City Attorney’s office has reviewed this staff report and has approved it as to form.

FISCAL IMPACT
Not applicable.

RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the City Council receive and file the Quarterly Investment Report for the quarter ended September 30, 2026.

Attachments
Attachement_A-Q1_FY_26-27_Investments.pdf

ATTACHMENT A
r
Cash 11,638,000
Investments 53,545,006
Cash w/Fiscal Agent 2,168,482
Petty Cash 1,150
Public Agency Retirement Services
(PARS)- Retirement Enhancement
Plan 804,929
PARS/ City of Lawndale Excess
Benefit Trust - US Bank 25,892 830,820
Total Cash and Investments 68,183,458

CITY OF LAWNDALE

TREASURY REPORT
For Quarter Ended September 30, 2026
H:\Investments\Investment reports\26-27\Qtr 1_Jul-Sep 2026\Q1 FY 26-27 Investments Investment Type Market Value
Checking Account 11,638,000
Certificate of Deposit 9,317,681
US Government Agency Securities 6,745,760
US Treasury Fund 9,733,436
LAIF State Pool 27,351,599
TOTAL 64,786,476
Portfolio Statistics
For Quarter Ended September 30, 2026
Portfolio Composition

CITY OF LAWNDALE

INVESTMENT REPORT
Checking
Account
18%
Certificate of
Deposit
14%
US Government
Agency
Securities
11%
US Treasury
Fund
15%
LAIF State Pool
42%
Checking Account Certificate of Deposit
US Government Agency Securities US Treasury Fund
LAIF State Pool
H:\Investments\Investment reports\26-27\Qtr 1_Jul-Sep 2026\Q1 FY 26-27 Investments Par Value Coupon Rate
Moody's/ S&P
Rating Purchase Date
Maturity/
Called Date
Days to
Maturity
Yield to
Maturity Cost Basis Category total
(memo only)
Market Value
On Call Deposits
Checking Account- Wells Fargo 11,638,000 N/A N/A Demand 1 None 11,638,000 11,638,000 FICA Fed Ins Cash Intrafi 2,045,971 N/A N/A Demand 1 Varies 2,045,971 2,045,971 First AM Treas OB FD 9,733,436 N/A N/A Demand 1 Varies 9,733,436 9,733,436 Local Agency Investment Fund- City of
Lawndale 27,349,906 N/A N/A Demand 1 4.09% 27,349,906 27,349,906 Local Agency Investment Fund- Lawndale
Housing Authority 1,693 N/A N/A Demand 1 4.09% 1,693 1,693 On Call Deposits 50,769,006 50,769,006 50,769,006
Short-Term Investments (1 Year or Less)
Time Deposits:

First Fndtn Bank 243,000 5.00% FDIC 6/24 12/14/2026 75 5.00% 243,000 243,413 Amoco Fed Credit Union 249,000 3.80% FDIC 12/30 12/30/2026 91 3.80% 249,000 248,706 Austin Telco Fed Cr 249,000 4.30% FDIC 2/25 2/16/2027 139 4.30% 249,000 249,070 Valley Natl Bk 247,000 4.45% FDIC 2/24 2/22/2027 145 4.45% 247,000 247,237 988,000 988,000 988,426
US Government Agency Securities:
- - -
- - -
Short-Term Investments (1 Year or Less) 988,000 988,000 988,426 Medium-Term Investments (1 to 3 Years)
Time Deposits:

Spokane Teachers CR UN CD 248,000 4.75% FDIC 4/24 4/15/2027 197 4.75% 248,000 248,647 Live Oak Bank 244,000 3.65% FDIC 10/23 4/28/2027 210 3.65% 244,000 243,114 Wexford Community Credit Union 248,000 4.75% FDIC 6/24 6/28/2027 271 4.75% 248,000 248,665 First Technology FCU CD 249,000 4.10% FDIC 8/24 8/20/2027 324 4.10% 249,000 248,290 Colorado federal Savings Bank 245,000 3.70% FDIC 2/27 8/27/2027 331 3.70% 245,000 243,270 First Merchants Bank 245,000 3.75% FDIC 9/24 9/10/2027 345 3.75% 245,000 243,385 American Express Natl BK 245,000 3.85% FDIC 9/24 9/13/2027 348 3.85% 245,000 243,692 Tuscon Fd Cr 249,000 3.65% FDIC 9/30 9/30/2027 365 3.65% 249,000 247,008 Third Fed Svgs 245,000 3.70% FDIC 12/19 12/20/2027 446 3.70% 245,000 242,518 Tompkins Community Bank 249,000 3.65% FDIC 2/27 2/28/2028 516 3.65% 249,000 245,706 Empower Fed Cr Union 248,000 4.75% FDIC 6/24 6/26/2028 635 4.75% 248,000 247,995 Texas Tr Cr 249,000 3.60% FDIC 9/30 9/29/2028 730 3.60% 249,000 243,086 American National Bank 249,000 3.55% FDIC 10/23 10/31/2028 762 3.55% 249,000 242,561 USAlliance Fed CU 249,000 4.15% FDIC 1/25 1/31/2029 854 4.15% 249,000 245,058 Baxter Credit Union 249,000 4.20% FDIC 2/25 2/22/2029 876 4.20% 249,000 245,193 3,711,000 3,711,000 3,678,189
US Government Agency Securities:

CITY OF LAWNDALE

DETAIL OF INVESTMENTS
For Quarter Ended September 30, 2026
H:\Investments\Investment reports\26-27\Qtr 1_Jul-Sep 2026\Q1 FY 26-27 Investments Par Value Coupon Rate
Moody's/ S&P
Rating Purchase Date
Maturity/
Called Date
Days to
Maturity
Yield to
Maturity Cost Basis Category total
(memo only)
Market Value

CITY OF LAWNDALE

DETAIL OF INVESTMENTS
For Quarter Ended September 30, 2026
0 - 0.000% 0.000% 6/24 1/0/1900 0 0.000% - -
- - -
Medium-Term Investments (1 - 3 Years) 3,711,000 3,711,000 3,678,189 Long-Term Investments (3 to 5 Years)
Time Deposits:

Morgan Stanley 245,000 3.95% FDIC 8/27 8/27/2029 1,062 3.95% 245,000 238,542 BMW Bank 245,000 3.90% FDIC 8/29 8/29/2029 1,064 3.90% 245,000 238,387 Grand River Bank 249,000 3.60% FDIC 10/10 10/10/2029 1,106 3.60% 249,000 239,755 United Bankers Bank 249,000 3.50% FDIC 10/23 10/31/2029 1,127 3.50% 249,000 238,856 Truxton Tr Co Nashville Tenn 249,000 4.10% FDIC 2/25 2/14/2030 1,233 4.10% 249,000 242,436 Optum Bank Inc 245,000 3.80% FDIC 3/23 3/25/2030 1,272 3.80% 245,000 236,001 Goldman Sachs 245,000 3.60% FDIC 9/30 9/30/2030 1,461 3.60% 245,000 232,701 Gulf Coast Bank & Trust 245,000 3.60% FDIC 10/23 10/29/2030 1,490 3.60% 245,000 232,341 Sallie Mae Bank 245,000 3.85% FDIC 12/17 12/17/2030 1,539 3.85% 245,000 234,159 Medallion Bank 249,000 3.70% FDIC 12/23 12/23/2030 1,545 3.70% 249,000 236,508 Sunwest Bank/UT 249,000 3.65% FDIC 2/27 2/27/2031 1,611 3.65% 249,000 235,410 2,715,000 2,715,000 2,605,095
US Government Agency Securities:

Federal Home Loan Banks 1,000,000 4.20% Aa1/AA+ 10/24 10/9/2029 1,105 4.20% 1,000,000 975,000 Federal Home Loan Banks 1,000,000 4.65% Aa1/AA+ 2/25 2/26/2030 1,245 4.65% 1,000,000 982,560 Federal National Mortgage Association 1,000,000 3.90% Aa1/AA+ 1/21 1/21/2031 1,574 3.90% 1,000,000 952,490 Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation 1,000,000 4.00% Aa1/AA+ 2/26 2/26/2031 1,610 4.00% 1,000,000 950,630 Federal National Mortgage Association 1,000,000 4.00% Aa1/AA+ 3/24 3/24/2031 1,636 4.00% 1,000,000 967,770 Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation 1,000,000 4.25% Aa1/AA+ 3/24 3/24/2031 1,636 4.25% 1,000,000 955,430 Federal Farm Credit Banks 1,000,000 4.33% Aa1/AA+ 4/15 4/15/2031 1,658 4.33% 1,000,000 961,880 7,000,000 7,000,000 6,745,760
Long-Term Investments (3 to 5 Years) 9,715,000 9,715,000 9,350,855 Total Cash and Investments 65,183,006 65,183,006 64,786,476 H:\Investments\Investment reports\26-27\Qtr 1_Jul-Sep 2026\Q1 FY 26-27 Investments

CITY OF LAWNDALE
14717 BURIN AVENUE, LAWNDALE, CALIFORNIA 90260
PHONE (310) 973-3200 ♦ https://www.lawndalecity.ca.gov
DATE: October 19, 2026
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council
FROM: Juan Arauz, City Manager
PREPARED BY: Yvette Palomo, Assistant City Clerk
SUBJECT: Consideration of Claim for Damage against the City

BACKGROUND
The City of Lawndale received a claim for property damage filed by Belkis DeSantiago (Claimant) on or about October 5, 2026. The claim filed alleged that on or about October 4, 2026, their personal vehicle was damaged by a city tree while parked on 163rd Street between Firmona Avenue and Grevillea Avenue in Lawndale, CA.

STAFF REVIEW
The City’s current third-party claims administrator, California Joint Powers Insurance Agency – Athens Program Insurance Services, reviewed the filed claim and determined that the liability for the claim could not be assigned to the City. As a result, Athens Program Insurance Services recommends that the City reject the claim as filed.

LEGAL REVIEW
The City Attorney has reviewed this staff report and approves it as to form.

RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the City Council reject the claim filed by Belkis DeSantiago and instruct staff to process the appropriate correspondence to the claimant.

Attachments
Attachment A Claim for Damage & Rejection Notice

ATTACHMENT A

P.O. Box 4005 • Concord, CA 94524 • 866.482.3535 • athensadmin.com October 13, 2026
TO: City of Lawndale
ATTENTION: Shaundra Burnam

RECOMMENDATION TO REJECT
RE: Claim No.: CJP-3057669
Member City: City of Lawndale
Claimant Name: Belkis DeSantiago
Date of loss: 10-04-2026
Please allow this correspondence to acknowledge receipt of the captioned claim. Please take the following action:
❖ CLAIM REJECTION: Send a standard rejection letter to the claimant Please include proof of mailing with your rejection notice to the claimant. Please provide us with a copy of the city’s notice of rejection and a copy of the proof of mailing. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the assigned adjuster or the undersigned claims specialist.

Thank you
Janice Bartlett
Janice Bartlett
Claims Examiner II Property & Casualty
Athens Program Insurance Services, LLC
p: 714.912.0242 | f: 1714.464.4465
e: [email protected] | w: www.athensadmin.com
Athens Program Insurance Services CA License No.: 2L60159

Juan Arauz, City Manager
Yvette Palomo, Assistant City Clerk
SUBJECT: Formation of a Standing Committee for Parks and Green Space

BACKGROUND
During the City Council meeting on September 21, 2026, Councilmember Suarez requested that the City Council consider creating a standing committee for parks and green space. This matter was subsequently placed on the October 5, 2026, City Council agenda for consideration by the Council.

On October 5, 2026, the City Council discussed the benefits of forming a standing committee that focuses on adding new parks and green space in the City. By consensus, the City Council directed staff to move forward with placing this item on a future agenda to formalize the standing committee and designate which Councilmembers would serve on the committee.

STAFF REVIEW
Standing committees are subject to the Brown Act and composed of members, less than a quorum, that may meet regularly to provide routine and regular recommendations set by a formal action. The City Council is asked to provide direction on the scope and objectives of this standing committeee.

Some suggested objectives for this committee to consider are as follows:

Identify grants and funding opportunites;
Development of additional green space;
Creation of other types of parks such as a dog park;
Identify property to acquire park and/or green space; or Identify other objectives.

Lastly, City Council is asked to name the standing committee and appoint two Councilmembers to serve on the committee.

LEGAL REVIEW
The City Attorney has reviewed and approved this staff report.

FISCAL IMPACT
None.

RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the City Council:

1. Discuss the objectives of the standing committee;

2. Name the standing committee; and

3. Appoint two Councilmembers to serve on the standing committee; or

4. Provide further direction to staff.

Attachments
List of City Council Ad Hoc Subcommittees & Standing Committees

ATTACHMENT A
City of Lawndale
City Council Ad Hoc Subcommittees
& Standing Committees
2026
Updated: 1/06/2026

AD HOC SUBCOMMITTEES
City/School District Park Maintenance and
Joint Use Ad Hoc Subcommittee
Teen Center Ad Hoc Subcommittee
Councilmember Bernadette Suarez
Appointed 1/17/23
Reaffirmed 1/16/24
Reaffirmed 1/06/25
Reaffirmed 1/05/26
Mayor Robert Pullen-Miles
Appointed 9/20/21
Reaffirmed 1/17/23
Reaffirmed 1/16/24
Reaffirmed 1/06/25
Reaffirmed 1/05/26
Mayor Pro Tem Sirley Cuevas
Appointed 1/19/21
Reaffirmed 1/17/23
Reaffirmed 1/16/24
Reaffirmed 1/06/25
Reaffirmed 1/05/26
Councilmember Bernadette Suarez
Appointed 9/20/21
Reaffirmed 1/17/23
Reaffirmed 1/16/24
Reaffirmed 1/06/25
Reaffirmed 1/05/26
Fiscal Year 2026-27 Budget Ad Hoc Subcommittee Parking and Traffic Solutions Ad Hoc Subcommittee Councilmember Pat Kearney
Appointed 1/19/21
Reaffirmed 1/17/23
Reaffirmed 1/16/24
Reaffirmed 1/06/25
Reaffirmed 1/05/26
Councilmember Pat Kearney
Appointed 1/30/23
Reaffirmed 2/5/24
Reaffirmed 1/06/25
Reaffirmed 1/05/26
Councilmember Frank M. Talavera
Appointed 1/05/26
Mayor Pro Tem Sirley Cuevas
Appointed 1/06/25
Reaffirmed 1/05/26
Billboard Ad Hoc Subcommittee Business Revitalization Ad Hoc Subcommittee (formerly a Standing Committee, modified July 17, 2023, by City Council) Councilmember Pat Kearney
Appointed 1/19/21
Reaffirmed 1/17/23
Reaffirmed 1/16/24
Reaffirmed 1/06/25
Reaffirmed 1/05/26
Mayor Robert Pullen-Miles
Appointed 1/19/21
Reaffirmed 1/17/23
Reaffirmed 1/16/24
Reaffirmed 1/06/25
Reaffirmed 1/05/26
Councilmember Frank M. Talavera
Appointed 1/06/25
Reaffirmed 1/05/26
Councilmember Frank M. Talavera
Appointed 1/05/26
Metro C Line (Green) Extension Ad Hoc Subcommittee Local Travel Network Project Ad Hoc Subcommittee Mayor Robert Pullen-Miles
Appointed 3/15/21
Reaffirmed 1/17/23
Reaffirmed 1/16/24
Reaffirmed 1/06/25
Reaffirmed 1/05/26
Councilmember Pat Kearney
Appointed 6/3/24 (date formed)
Reaffirmed 1/06/25
Reaffirmed 1/05/26
Councilmember Frank M. Talavera
Appointed 1/06/25
Reaffirmed 1/05/26
Councilmember Bernadette Suarez
Appointed 6/3/24 (date formed)
Reaffirmed 1/06/25
Reaffirmed 1/05/26
City of Lawndale
City Council Ad Hoc Subcommittees
& Standing Committees
2026
Updated: 1/06/2026

AD HOC SUBCOMMITTEES
Fireworks Ad Hoc Subcommittee Software Technology Citywide Ad Hoc Subcommittee Councilmember Pat Kearney
Appointed 1/06/25
Reaffirmed 1/05/26
Councilmember Pat Kearney
Appointed 2/03/25 (date formed)
Reaffirmed 1/05/26
Councilmember Frank M. Talavera
Appointed 1/06/25
Reaffirmed 1/05/26
Councilmember Bernadette Suarez
Appointed 2/03/25 (date formed)
Reaffirmed 1/05/26
Hispanic-American Contributions Festival Planning
Ad Hoc Subcommittee
Independence Day Celebration Ad Hoc Subcommittee
Mayor Pro Tem Sirley Cuevas
Appointed 1/05/26
Mayor Pro Tem Sirley Cuevas
Appointed 10/20/25 (date formed)
Reaffirmed 1/05/26
Councilmember Frank M. Talavera
Appointed 5/19/25 (date formed)
Reaffirmed 1/05/26
Councilmember Frank M. Talavera
Appointed 10/20/25 (date formed)
Reaffirmed 1/05/26

STANDING COMMITTEES
City/School Districts Standing Committee Caltrans Maintenance Standing Committee Councilmember Pat Kearney
Appointed 1/19/21
Reaffirmed 1/17/23
Reaffirmed 1/16/24
Reaffirmed 1/06/25
Reaffirmed 1/05/26
Mayor Robert Pullen-Miles
Appointed 9/20/21
Reaffirmed 1/17/23
Reaffirmed 1/16/24
Reaffirmed 1/06/25
Reaffirmed 1/05/26
Councilmember Frank M. Talavera
Appointed 1/06/25
Reaffirmed 1/05/26
Councilmember Frank M. Talavera
Appointed 1/06/25
Reaffirmed 1/05/26
Homelessness Solutions Standing Committee
Councilmember Bernadette Suarez
Appointed 11/15/21
Reaffirmed 1/17/23
Reaffirmed 1/16/24
Reaffirmed 1/06/25
Reaffirmed 1/05/26
Mayor Pro Tem Sirley Cuevas
Appointed 11/15/21
Reaffirmed 1/17/23
Reaffirmed 1/16/24
Reaffirmed 1/06/25
Reaffirmed 1/05/26

Approval of Amendment No. 1 for contract services agreement with MV Cheng & Associates for financial consulting services

BACKGROUND
With the resignation of the Director of Finance/City Treasurer on effective June 11, 2026, City Council approved a contract services agreement on June 19, 2026 for financial consulting services with MV Cheng & Associates. The agreement included a not-to-exceed amount of $49,500 and a contract term for the completion of services no later than October 30, 2026.

The contract was to ensure continuity in the Finance Department’s essential services, while maintaining internal controls and financial integrity.

It was the City’s intent to start the recruitment of the Director of Finance/City Treasurer position, however, with the vacancy of the City Manager and Human Resources Director positions at the time, recruitment was slightly delayed.

STAFF REVIEW
The City is currently recruiting for the Director of Finance/City Treasurer position, with applications reviewed at the end of September 2026, and interviews to commence in the month of October 2026. If a candidate is successfully hired, it is expected that the on boarding process may take 6 to 8 weeks. To ensure no gap is created between the financial consulting services consultant and to provide a two-week transition period for the consultant and the permanent Director of Finance/City Treasurer, City staff is requesting that the agreement between the City and MV Cheng & Associates be granted a 60-day extension to December 31, 2026 and the contract amount increased from $49,500 to $75,000, resulting in a $25,500 increase.

The approved salary and benefits budget for the vacant Director of Finance/City Treasurer totals $263,152, approximately $21,929 per month. Total savings from July through October is $87,716 which was used to cover costs incurred by the financial consultant of $49,500, still leaving 4-month savings of $38,216. The proposed contract increase for the next two (2) months of $25,500 will be covered by the remaining savings in the first 4 months.

The hourly rate of the financial consultant will be $150.00 per hour, part-time as needed. Any changes in hours or duration can be adjusted to reflect the needs of the City and will be discussed and approved in writing by the City prior to implementation

LEGAL REVIEW
The City Attorney has reviewed this staff report and agreement and approved it as to form

FISCAL IMPACT
There will be no impact to the General Fund, therefore, no appropriations will be needed. Costs incurred as a result of this Amendment will be funded by salary savings from the Director of Finance/City Treasurer position.

RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the City Council approve Amendment #1 for financial consulting services with MV Cheng & Associates with a not-to-exceed amount of $75,000 and a termination date of December 31, 2026, in a form approved by the City Attorney.

Attachments
Attachement_A-MV_Cheng_First_Amendment_10-19-26.pdf
Attachment_B-Original_Agreement_with_MV_Cheng_Associates_for_Financial_Consulting.pdf

ATTACHMENT A
MV Cheng & Associates
1 FIRST AMENDMENT TO CONTRACT SERVICES AGREEMENT
FOR PROFESSIONAL ACCOUNTING SERVICES – MV CHENG & ASSOCIATES This FIRST AMENDMENT TO CONTRACT SERVICES AGREEMENT (the “First Amendment") is made and entered into this 19th day of October, 2026, by and between the CITY OF LAWNDALE, a municipal corporation (herein "City") and MV Cheng & Associates, a California corporation (herein "Consultant"). The term Consultant includes professional performing in a consulting capacity.

RECITALS
WHEREAS, the City and Consultant entered into that certain Agreement entitled "Contract Services Agreement for Financial Consulting Services" (the "Agreement") on June 19th, 2026, and WHEREAS, the Agreement provides for a not-to-exceed amount of $49,500 and services through October 30, 2026;
WHEREAS, the City and Consultant now desire to amend the Agreement to extend the terms and to increase the not-to-exceed contract amount, as set forth in this First Amendment.

AMENDMENT

NOW, THEREFORE, it is hereby agreed that the Agreement is amended as follows:

SECTION 1. Section 2.1 of the Agreement, entitled “Contract Sum,” is hereby amended to increase the maximum Contract Sum from $49,500 to $75,000 to compensate the Consultant for financial consulting services for the extension of this agreement.

SECTION 2. Section 5.1 of the Agreement, entitled “Term,” is hereby amended to extend the Term for completion of the services provided under the Agreement through December 31, 2026.

SECTION 3. Except as expressly amended by this First Amendment, all other terms and conditions, including term and compensation provisions not specifically amended herein, shall remain in full force and effect.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed and entered into this Amendment as of the date first written above.
[SIGNATURES ON THE FOLLOWING PAGE.]
MV Cheng & Associates
2 CITY:
_________________________________
Robert Pullen-Miles, Mayor
ATTEST:
_________________________________
Erica Harbison, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:

Burke, Williams & Sorensen, LLP
_________________________________
Gregory M. Murphy, City Attorney
CONSULTANT:

MV Cheng & Associates
By: ________________
Name: Misty V Cheng
Title: President & CEO
Address: 102 W 24th St
Upland, CA 91784
[END OF SIGNATURES]

ATTACHMENT B

CITY OF LAWNDALE
14717 BURIN AVENUE, LAWNDALE, CALIFORNIA 90260
PHONE (310) 973-3200 ♦ https://www.lawndalecity.ca.gov
DATE: June 19, 2026
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council
FROM:

Gregory M. Murphy, City Attorney
Raylette Felton, Interim City Manager
PREPARED BY:

Gregory M. Murphy, City Attorney
Raylette Felton, Interim City Manager
SUBJECT:

Approval of Professional Services Agreement with MV Cheng & Associates for Financial Consulting Services

BACKGROUND
With the resignation of the Director of Finance/ City Treasurer effective June 11, 2026, staff determined that there is a need to obtain professional consulting services to maintain internal controls and financial integrity.

Staff immediately began searching for qualified professional firms that could provide staff augmentation services on a part-time basis.

STAFF REVIEW
As the City awaits the selection of the City Manager and the initiation of the recruitment process for the Director of Finance/City Treasurer pending, it is imperative that the City seek temporary professional consulting services to provide guidance regarding finance, budget, purchasing, accounting, and project management.

City contacted two firms to request proposals for consulting services. One firm indicated that they could not provide assistance. Staff received a proposal from MV Cheng & Associates and selected a candidate to provide consulting services at the Finance Director level based on their experience and familiarity with public sector accounting. Some of the critical Finance Department projects include completing fiscal year end close, audit, implementing fiscal year budget, finance and citywide software implementation. It is anticipated that the consultant’s knowledge and experience will be essential to the continuous operations during this transition period. The hourly rate of the consultant will be $150/hour, part-time as needed. Any changes in hours or duration can be adjusted to reflect the needs of the City and will be discussed and approved in writing by the City prior to implementation.

LEGAL REVIEW
The City Attorney has reviewed this staff report and agreement and approved it as to form.

FISCAL IMPACT
There will be no impact to General Fund, therefore, no appropriations will be needed. Salary savings related to the vacancy of the Director of Finance/City Treasurer position will cover the anticipated contract costs in the current fiscal year.

RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommend that the City Council approve the Professional Services Agreement with M.V. Cheng & Associates for professional financial consulting services, pending the recruitment of Director of Finance/ City Treasurer, in a form approved by the City Attorney.

Attachments
Professional Contract Services Agreement - MV Cheng Associates.pdf

ATTACHMENT A
-1- MV Cheng & Associates

CITY OF LAWNDALE

CONTRACT SERVICES AGREEMENT FOR

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH MV CHENG & ASSOCIATES FOR

FINANCIAL CONSULTING SERVICES
This Contract Services Agreement (“Agreement”) is made and entered into this 19th day of June, 2026, by and between the City of Lawndale, a municipal corporation (“City”), and MV Cheng & Associates, a California corporation (“Consultant”).

NOW, THEREFORE, the parties agree as follows:

1.0 SERVICES OF CONSULTANT

1.1 Scope of Services. Consultant will perform the work or services set forth in the “Scope of Services” attached as Exhibit “A” and incorporated herein by reference in compliance with all of the terms and conditions of this Agreement. Consultant represents that Consultant has thoroughly investigated and considered the Scope of Services to be performed and warrants that all work or services will be performed in a competent, professional, and satisfactory manner. Additional terms and conditions of this Agreement, if any, are set forth in the “Special Requirements” attached as Exhibit “B” and incorporated herein by this reference. In the event of a conflict between the provisions of Exhibit “B” and any other provisions of this Agreement Exhibit “B” will govern.

1.2 Compliance With Law. All work and services rendered under this Agreement will be provided in accordance with all ordinances, resolutions, statutes, rules and regulations of the City and any federal, state or local governmental agency of competent jurisdiction.

1.3 Licenses, Permits, Fees and Assessments. Consultant will obtain, at its sole cost and expense, all licenses, permits and approvals as may be required by law for the performance of the services required by this Agreement.

2.0 COMPENSATION

2.1 Contract Sum. For the services rendered pursuant to this Agreement, Consultant will be compensated in accordance with the “Schedule of Compensation” attached as Exhibit “C” and incorporated herein by this reference, but not exceeding the maximum contract amount of forty nine thousand and five hundred dollars ($49,500) (“Contract Sum”).

2.2 Method of Payment. Provided that Consultant is not in default under the terms of this Agreement, Consultant will be paid generally within 30 days, and no later the 45 days from the submission of an invoice in an approved form.

2.3 Invoicing. Each month during the term of this Agreement, Consultant must furnish City with an original invoice for all services performed and expenses incurred during the preceding month in accordance with the fee schedule set forth in Exhibit C. Except as to any -2- MV Cheng & Associates
charges for work performed or expenses incurred by Consultant that are disputed by City, City will cause Consultant to be paid within 30 days of receipt of Consultant’s invoice.

3.0 COORDINATION OF WORK

3.1 Representative of Consultant. Misty Cheng is designated as the Consultant’s representative authorized to act on its behalf with respect to this Agreement and to make all decisions necessary in connection with this Agreement. Consultant may designate a substitute representative by providing written notice to City’s Contract Officer.

3.2 Contract Officer. The City’s City Manager is designated as the City’s representative authorized to act on its behalf with respect to this Agreement and to make all decisions in connection this Agreement (“Contract Officer”). The City may designate a substitute Contract Officer by providing written notice to Consultant.

3.3 Prohibition Against Subcontracting or Assignment. Consultant may not contract with any entity to perform in whole or in part the work or services required under this Agreement without the written approval of the City. Neither this Agreement nor any interest in the Agreement may be assigned or transferred, voluntarily or by operation of law, without the prior written approval of City. Any prohibited assignment or transfer is void.

3.4 Independent Contractor. Neither the City nor any of its employees shall have any control over the manner or means by which Contractor or its employees, perform the services required herein, except as otherwise set forth herein. Contractor shall perform all services required herein as an independent contractor of City and shall remain under only such obligations as are consistent with that role. Contractor represents and warrants that the personnel used to provide services to the City pursuant to this Agreement are classified by Contractor as employees. Contractor shall not at any time or in any manner represent that it or any of its employees are employees of City. City shall not in any way or for any purpose become or be deemed to be a partner of Contractor in its business or otherwise or a joint venturer or a member of any joint enterprise with Contractor. In the event that Contractor or any employee of Contractor providing services under this Agreement claims or is determined by a federal or state agency, a court of competent jurisdiction, or the California Public Employees’ Retirement System (“CalPERS”) to be classified as other than an independent contractor for the City, then Contractor shall indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the City for the payment of any and all assessed fines, penalties, judgments, employee and/or employer contributions, and any other damages and costs assessed to the City as a consequence of, or in any way attributable to, the assertion that Contractor or any staff used to provide services under this Agreement are employees of the City.

4.0 INSURANCE AND INDEMNIFICATION

4.1 Insurance. Consultant must procure and maintain, at its sole cost and expense, in a form and content satisfactory to City, during the entire term of this Agreement including any extension thereof, the following policies of insurance:
(a) Commercial General Liability Insurance. A policy of commercial general liability insurance using Insurance Services Office “Commercial General Liability” policy form CG 00 01, with an edition date prior to 2004, or the exact equivalent. Coverage for an -3- MV Cheng & Associates
additional insured must not be limited to its vicarious liability. Defense costs must be paid in addition to limits. Limits must be no less than $1,000,000.00 per occurrence for all covered losses and no less than $2,000,000.00 general aggregate.
(b) Workers’ Compensation Insurance. A policy of workers’ compensation insurance on a state-approved policy form providing statutory benefits as required by law with employer’s liability limits no less than $1,000,000.00 per accident for all covered losses. However, this requirement will not apply if Consultant has no employees and Instructor provides the letter signed under penalty of perjury as described in Section 1.2. (c) Automotive Insurance. A policy of comprehensive automobile liability insurance written on a per occurrence basis in an amount not less than $1,000,000.00 per accident, combined single limit. Said policy must include coverage for owned, non-owned, leased and hired cars.
(d) Professional Liability or Error and Omissions Insurance. A policy of professional liability insurance in an amount not less than $1,000,000.00 per claim and $2,000,000.00 annual aggregate with respect to loss arising from the actions of Consultant performing professional services under this Agreement on behalf of the City. Any policy inception date, continuity date, or retroactive date must be before the effective date of this Agreement and Consultant agrees to maintain continuous coverage through a period no less than three (3) years after completion of the services required by this Agreement.

All of the above policies of insurance, except professional liability insurance, must be primary insurance. The general liability policy must name the City’s officers, employees and agents (“City Parties”) as additional insureds and must waive all rights of subrogation and contribution it may have against the City and the City’s Parties and their respective insurers.

Moreover, the insurance policy must specify that where the primary insured does not satisfy the self-insured retention, any additional insured may satisfy the self-insured retention. All of the required policies of insurance must provide that they may be not cancelled without providing 10 days prior written notice by registered mail to the City. In the event any of the policies are cancelled or amended, Consultant must, prior to the cancellation or amendment date, submit new evidence of insurance in conformance with this Section 4.1 to the Contract Officer. No work or services under this Agreement may commence until Consultant has provided City with Certificates of Insurance or appropriate insurance binders evidencing the above insurance coverages and said Certificates of Insurance or binders are approved by City. Consultant agrees that the provisions of this Section 4.1 must not be construed as limiting in any way the extent to which Consultant may be held responsible for the payment of damages to any persons or property resulting from Consultant’s activities or the activities of any person or persons for which Consultant is otherwise responsible. If the Consultant’s insurance policies have higher limits and coverage than those required by this contract, the City will have access to those higher limits and coverage maintained by the Consultant.

The insurance required by this Agreement will be satisfactory only if issued by companies qualified to do business in California, rated “A” or better in the most recent edition of Best Rating Guide or The Key Rating Guide, and only if they are of a financial category Class VII or better, unless such requirements are waived by the Risk Manager of the City due to unique circumstances. -4- MV Cheng & Associates
In the event that the Consultant is authorized to subcontract any portion of the work or services provided pursuant to this Agreement, the contract between the Consultant and such subcontractor must require the subcontractor to maintain the same policies of insurance that the Consultant is required to maintain pursuant to this Section 4.1.

Consultant must furnish proof of insurance required under this section before commencement of any work.

4.2 Indemnification.
(a) Indemnity for Design Professional Liability. When the law establishes a professional standard of care for Consultant’s services, to the fullest extent permitted by law, and except for the statutory limits set forth under California Civil Code Section 2782,8 applicable to services provided by a “design professional”, Consultant agrees to indemnify, defend and hold harmless City and the City’s Parties from and against any and all losses, liabilities, damages, costs and expenses, including attorneys’ fees and costs to the extent same are caused in whole or in part by any negligent or wrongful act, error or omission of Consultant, its officers, employees or subcontractors (or any entity or individual for which Consultant bears legal liability) in the performance of professional services under this Agreement. (b) Indemnity for Other Than Design Professional Liability. Other than in the performance of design professional services and to the full extent permitted by law, Consultant agrees to indemnify, defend and hold harmless City and City’s Parties from and against any liability (including liability for claims, suits, actions, losses, expenses or costs of any kind, whether actual, alleged or threatened, including attorneys’ fees and costs, court costs, defense costs and expert witness fees), where the same arise out of, are a consequence of, or are in any way attributable to, in whole or in part, the performance of this Agreement by Consultant or by any individual or entity for which Consultant is legally liable, including but not limited to officers, employees or subcontractors of Consultant.

5.0 TERM

5.1 Term. Unless earlier terminated in accordance with Section 5.2 below, this Agreement will begin on June 19, 2026, and continue in full force and effect until October 30,2026.

5.2 Termination Prior to Expiration of Term. Either party may terminate this Agreement at any time, with or without cause, upon 30 days’ written notice to the other party.

Upon receipt of the notice of termination, the Consultant must immediately cease all work or services under this Agreement except as may be approved by the Contract Officer in writing. In the event of termination, Consultant will be compensated for all services rendered prior to the effectiveness of the notice of termination to the City’s satisfaction and for any additional services authorized by the Contract Officer and City will be entitled to reimbursement for any compensation paid in excess of the services rendered to the City’s satisfaction. Upon termination of this Agreement by either Consultant or City, all property belonging to City that is in Consultant’s possession must be returned to City. Consultant must promptly deliver to City a final invoice for all outstanding services performed and expenses incurred by Consultant as of the date -5- MV Cheng & Associates
of termination. Compensation for work in progress not based on an hourly rate will be prorated based on the percentage of work completed as of the date of termination.

6.0 MISCELLANEOUS

6.1 Covenant Against Discrimination. Consultant covenants that, by and for itself, its heirs, executors, assigns and all persons claiming under or through it, that there will be no discrimination against or segregation of, any person or group of persons on account of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin in the performance of this Agreement. Consultant will take affirmative action to ensure that applicants are employed and that employees are treated during employment without regard to their race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.

6.2 Non-liability of City Officers and Employees. No officer, employee, or agent of the City will be personally liable to the Consultant, or any successor in interest, in the event of any default or breach by the City or for any amount which may become due to the Consultant or to its successor, or for breach of any obligation of the terms of this Agreement.

6.3 Conflict of Interest. No officer, employee, or agent of the City may have any financial interest in this Agreement nor may any such officer, employee, or agent participate in any decision relating to the Agreement which affects his financial interest or the financial interest of any corporation, partnership, or association in which he is, directly or indirectly, interested, in violation of any state or local statute or regulation. The Consultant warrants that it (and its officers and employees) has not paid or given and will not pay or give any third party any money or other consideration for obtaining this Agreement. When requested by the Contract Officer, prior to the City’s execution of this Agreement, Consultant will provide the City with an executed statement of economic interest.

6.4 Notice. Any notice or other communication either party desires or is required to give to the other party or any other person must be in writing and either served personally or sent by prepaid, first-class mail, in the case of the City, to the City Manager and to the attention of the Contract Officer, at City of Lawndale, 14717 Burin Avenue, Lawndale, California 90260, and in the case of the Consultant, to the Consultant’s representative at the address designated on the execution page of this Agreement. Notice will be deemed effective three days after deposit of the same in the custody of the United States Postal Service, postage prepaid, for first class delivery, or upon delivery if using a major courier service with tracking capabilities. Any party may change its notice information by giving notice to the other party in compliance with this section.

6.5 Interpretation. The terms of this Agreement will be construed in accordance with the meaning of the language used and will not be construed for or against either party by reason of the authorship of this Agreement or any other rule of construction which might otherwise apply.

6.6 Integration; Amendment. It is agreed that there are no oral agreements between the parties affecting this Agreement and that this Agreement supersedes and cancels any and all previous negotiations, arrangements, agreements and understandings, if any, between the -6- MV Cheng & Associates
parties, and none will be used to interpret this Agreement. This Agreement may be amended at any time by a writing signed by both parties.

6.7 Severability. In the event that part of this Agreement is declared invalid or unenforceable by a valid judgment or decree of a court of competent jurisdiction, such invalidity or unenforceability will not affect any of the remaining portions of this Agreement which are hereby declared as severable and will be interpreted to carry out the intent of the parties unless the invalid provision is so material that its invalidity deprives either party of the basic benefit of their bargain or renders this Agreement meaningless.

6.8 Waiver. No delay or omission in the exercise of any right or remedy by a nondefaulting party on any default will impair such right or remedy or be construed as a waiver.

A party’s consent to or approval of any act by the other party requiring the party’s consent or approval will not be deemed to waive or render unnecessary the other party’s consent to or approval of any subsequent act. Any waiver by either party of any default must be in writing and will not be a waiver of any other default concerning the same or any other provision of this Agreement.

6.9 Attorneys’ Fees. If either party to this Agreement is required to initiate, defend or made a party to any action or proceeding in any way connected with this Agreement, the prevailing party in such action or proceeding, in addition to any other relief which may be granted, will be entitled to reasonable attorneys’ fees, whether or not the matter proceeds to judgment.

6.10 Corporate Authority. The persons executing this Agreement on behalf of the parties warrant that (i) such party is duly organized and existing, (ii) they are duly authorized to execute and deliver this Agreement on behalf of said party, (iii) by executing this Agreement, such party is formally bound to the provisions of this Agreement, and (iv) the entering into this Agreement does not violate any provision of any other Agreement to which said party is bound.

6.11 Project Documents. All original computer programs, data, designs, drawings, files, maps, memoranda, models, notes, photographs, reports, studies, surveys and other documents (collectively, “Project Documents”) prepared, developed or discovered by Consultant in the course of providing services under this Agreement will become the sole property of City and may be used, reused or otherwise disposed of by City without the permission of Consultant.

Consultant will take such steps as are necessary to perfect or protect the ownership interest of City in such Project Documents. Upon completion, expiration or termination of this Agreement or upon request by City, Consultant must turn over to City all such original Project Documents in its possession; provided, however, that Consultant may retain copies of Project Documents. City acknowledges and agrees that use of Consultant’s completed work product, for purposes other than identified in this Agreement, or use of incomplete work product, is at City’s own risk. If necessary, Consultant agrees to execute all appropriate documents to assign to City the copyright or intellectual property rights to the Project Documents created pursuant to this Agreement. Except as necessary for the performance of services under this Agreement, no Project Documents prepared under this Agreement, will be released by Consultant to any other person or entity without City’s prior written approval.
-7- MV Cheng & Associates

6.12 Confidentiality of Project Documents. All information gained or work product produced by Consultant in performance of this Agreement will be considered confidential, unless such information is in the public domain or already known to Consultant. Consultant may not release or disclose any such information or work product to persons or entities other than City without prior written authorization from the Contract Officer, except as may be required by law.

Consultant, its officers, employees, or agents, may not, without prior written authorization from the Contract Officer or unless requested by the City Attorney of City, voluntarily provide declarations, letters of support, testimony at depositions, response to interrogatories or other information concerning the services performed under this Agreement. Response to a subpoena or court order will not be considered “voluntary” provided Consultant gives City notice of such court order or subpoena. If Consultant, or any officer, employee, or agent of Consultant, provides any information or work product (including Project Documents) in violation of this Agreement, then City will have the right to reimbursement and indemnity from Consultant for any damages, costs and fees, including attorneys fees, caused by or incurred as a result of Consultant’s conduct.

Consultant must promptly notify City should Consultant, its officers, employees, or agents be served with any summons, complaint, subpoena, notice of deposition, request for documents, interrogatories, request for admissions or other discovery request, court order or subpoena from any party regarding this Agreement and the services performed under this Agreement. City retains the right, but has no obligation, to represent Consultant or be present at any deposition, hearing or similar proceeding. Consultant agrees to cooperate fully with City and to provide City with the opportunity to review any response to discovery requests provided by Consultant. However, this right to review any such response does not imply or mean the right by City to control, direct, or rewrite such response. All media and press releases, including graphic display information, must be approved and distributed solely by City, unless otherwise agreed to in writing by City. All media interviews regarding the performance of services under this Agreement are prohibited unless expressly authorized by City.

6.13 Audit and Review. Consultant must maintain all documents and records demonstrating or relating to Consultant’s performance of services under this Agreement, including ledgers, books of account, invoices, vouchers, canceled checks, or other documents or records evidencing or relating to work, services, expenditures and disbursements charged to City under this Agreement. All financial documents or records must be maintained in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and all other documents must be sufficiently complete and detailed so as to permit an accurate evaluation of the services provided by Consultant under this Agreement. All such documents or records must be maintained for at least three years following the final payment under this Agreement. Any and all records or documents required to be maintained by this section must be made available for inspection, audit and copying, at any time during regular business hours, upon written request by City or its designated representative.

Copies of such documents or records must be provided directly to City for inspection, audit and copying when it is practical to do so; otherwise, unless an alternative is mutually agreed upon, such documents and records must be made available at Consultant’s address indicated for receipt of notices in this Agreement. Where City has reason to believe that any of the documents or records required to be maintained by this section may be lost or discarded due to dissolution or termination of Consultant’s business, City may, by written request, require that custody of such documents or records be given to a person or entity mutually agreed upon and that such documents and records thereafter be maintained by such person or entity at Consultant’s expense. Access to -8- MV Cheng & Associates
such documents and records must be granted to City, as well as to its successors-in-interest and authorized representatives.

6.14 Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in several counterparts, each of which shall constitute one and the same instrument and shall become binding upon the parties when at least one copy has been signed by both parties. In approving this Agreement, it shall not be necessary to produce or account for more than one such counterpart. The parties hereby expressly agree to the use of electronic signatures, which shall be deemed to have the same effect as an original signature. This Agreement and any amendment will be considered executed when the signature page of a party is delivered by facsimile or other electronic transmission.

6.15 Venue. In the event of litigation between the parties, venue in will be exclusively in a state court in the County of Los Angeles. [SIGNATURES NEXT PAGE]
-9- MV Cheng & Associates
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed and entered into this Agreement as of the date first written above.

CITY:

City of Lawndale,
a municipal corporation
By: _________________________
Robert Pullen-Miles, Mayor
ATTEST:

Erica Harbison, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:

Burke, Williams & Sorensen, LLP
Gregory M. Murphy, City Attorney
CONSULTANT:

MV Cheng & Associates
By:

Name: Misty V Cheng
Title: President & CEO
Address: 102 W. 24th Street]
Upland, CA 91784
[END OF SIGNATURES]
01001.0001/348174.2 A-1 MV Cheng & Associates
EXHIBIT “A”

SCOPE OF SERVICES
Consultant will provide professional temporary finance, budget, purchasing, accounting, and project management consulting services at a comparable level of Finance Director/ City Treasurer for the City of Lawndale’s Finance Department. Any changes in personnel recommended by the Consultant must be approved by the City Manager. The Consultant will also be responsible for providing coordinating all finance, budgeting, accounting, treasury, human resources, risk management, and financial system migration project related activities with the City. Further responsibilities may include: leadership development, mentor, and guide the City's finance activities and programs, assistance with recruitment for Director of Finance/City Treasurer, and other services as directed and needed by the City.

B-1 MV Cheng & Associates
EXHIBIT “B”

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
A new Section 3.5 is added to the Agreement to read as follows:
“Hiring of Consultant’s associates and/or subcontractors City agrees that each of Consultant’s associates and/or sub-contractors that perform work for City under this Agreement will only be able to obtain a direct contract or professional services agreement with the City after two years have elapsed following the expiration of this Agreement.

In the alternative, should the City hire one of Contractor’s associates or sub-contractors that perform work under this Agreement as aa full-time, permanent, fully-benefitted employee before the two-year period has elapsed, City agrees to first perform a recruitment AND not to consider the associate and/or sub-contractor until that person has billed 960 hours to the City under this Agreement. City further agreesthat if it hires one of Consultant’s associates and/or sub-contractors as a part-time, non-benefited employee it will do so only after the associate and/or sub-contractor has billed 960 hours to the City under this Agreement and the City has paid to Consultant a fee of 5% of the associate and/or sub contractor’s annualized wages based on the hourly rate charged. If, prior to the expiration of the two-year period mentioned above City employs one or more of Consultant’s associates and/or sub-contractors that perform work under this Agreement through another temporary service or staffing agency, City agrees to pay to Consultant a fee of 10% of the associate and/or sub contractor’s annualized wages based on the hourly rate charged.

C-1 MV Cheng & Associates
EXHIBIT “C”

SCHEDULE OF COMPENSATION
Consultant shall provide professional temporary accounting services on an as needed basis, expected to start at around 20 hours per week. Consultant shall bill the City at a rate of $150 per hour for all services related to this Agreement and as identified in the Exhibit A – Scope of Services.

Discuss Communication with Metro to Obtain Easement for Condon Avenue Right-of-Way
This is an oral report requested by Mayor Pullen-Miles. It is recommended that the City Council receive the Mayor's request to instruct staff to have conversations with LA Metro regarding obtaining an easement on the Right-of-Way along Condon Avenue for municipal uses.

CITY OF LAWNDALE
14717 BURIN AVENUE, LAWNDALE, CALIFORNIA 90260
PHONE (310) 973-3200 ♦ https://www.lawndale.ca.gov
DATE: October 19, 2026
TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council
FROM: Juan Arauz, City Manager
PREPARED BY: Vanesa Alvarez, Administrative Assistant
SUBJECT: Report of Attendance at Meetings
No supporting documentation was forwarded to the City Clerk Department for this item.

Lawndale City CouncilOctober 19, 2026

Lawndale City Council
October 19, 2026