CITY OF MONTEBELLO
CITY COUNCIL AND PUBLIC FINANCING AUTHORITY
JOINT REGULAR MEETING
MINUTES
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2022 AT 5:00 PM
CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS
1600 WEST BEVERLY BOULEVARD
MONTEBELLO, CALIFORNIA
OPENING CEREMONIES
CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Cobos-Cawthorne called the meeting to order at 5:06 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Members present were Mayor/Chairperson Cobos-Cawthorne, Mayor Pro Tem Jimenez/Vice Chairperson, Councilmember/Member Peralta, Councilmember/Member Melendez, and Councilmember/Member Torres. City Clerk/Board Secretary Jimenez and Treasurer Gutierrez were also present.
STAFF PRESENT - City Attorney Arnold Alvarez-Glasman, City Manager René Bobadilla, Assistant City Manager Arlene Salazar, Senior Deputy City Clerk Alicia Fernandez, Deputy City Clerk Kimberly Guillen, Records Coordinator Angelina Padilla, and all Department Managers were present.
PUBLIC COMMENTS FOR CLOSED SESSION ITEMS
At this time, the general public may address the City Council/PFA on Closed Session Items. Please be aware that the maximum time allotted for members of the public to speak on Closed Session Items shall not exceed three (3) minutes per person. State Law prohibits the City Council/PFA from taking action or entertaining extended discussion on a topic not listed on the agenda. Please show courtesy to others and direct all of your comments to the Mayor.
None.
September 14, 2022: City Council and Public Financing Authority Meeting Minutes
CLOSED SESSION 5:00 P.M.
The City Attorney shall provide a briefing on the item listed for Closed Session as follows:
Item 2a-c. was added to the agenda as a subsequent need matter pursuant to Government Code Section 54954.2(b). It was motioned by Councilmember Melendez, seconded by Councilmember Torres that the item be added; the motion was approved unanimously.
Mayor Cobos-Cawthorne recessed the meeting into Closed Session at 5:110 p.m. to consider the following Closed Session items, including the added items:
1. THREAT TO PUBLIC SERVICES OR FACILITIES
Government Code Section 54957
Consultation with City Manager, Police Chief, City Attorney and other related City officials.
2. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – ANTICIPATED LITIGATION Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(4)
One Matter Related to Montebello Armory, 244 George Hensel Drive Walk on Item
2.a-c CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - ANTICIPATED LITIGATION Government Code Section 54954.2(b)
Several employee claims filed against the City, City Council and Councilmember Torres
REGULAR SESSION NO LATER THAN 6:00 P.M.
CLOSED SESSION REPORT
Mayor Cobos-Cawthorne reconvened the meeting at 6:05 pm. During Closed Session the City Council received a briefing on Item No. 1. direction was provided, no action taken; nothing to report. The City Council received a briefing on Item No. 2, direction was provided, no action taken; nothing to report. The City Council received a briefing on Item No. 2a-c, no action was taken and Councilmember Torres was not in attendance during the briefing.
INVOCATION
Eric Crespo, Principal at Cantwell-Sacred Heart of Mary High School
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Arturo Ponce, Veteran
CORRECTIONS TO THE AGENDA CITY MANAGER
City Manager announced the following: Item No. 19 the Approval of Minutes was updated, a handout was provided to Council and the Public.
CEREMONIAL/PRESENTATIONS
September 14, 2022: City Council and Public Financing Authority Meeting Minutes
3. RECOGNITION OF CITIZEN OF THE MONTH - GARY MENDIBLES This item was postponed to a future meeting.
4. RECOGNITION OF 2022 HELEN PUTNAM AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE - LEAGUE OF CITIES Presented by Kristine Guerrero from Cal Cities
5. RECOGNITION OF SAN GABRIEL VALLEY COUNCIL OF GOVERNMENTS TINY HOMES Presented by Mayor Cobos-Cawthorne
6. RECOGNITION OF MONTEBELLO COMMUNITY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (MCAP) LANDLORDS FOR
ASSISTANCE WITH MCAP CLIENTS
Presented by Mayor Cobos-Cawthorne
7. RECOGNITION OF NATIONAL HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH
Presented by Mayor Cobos-Cawthorne
8. RECOGNITION OF NATIONAL PREPAREDNESS MONTH
Presented by Mayor Cobos-Cawthorne
9. 2022 FIREWORK RESPONSE PRESENTATION
Presented by Fire Chief Pelaez, Police Chief Espinosa, and Fire Prevention Captain Gary Robinson.
Councilmembers discussed this item; Mayor Cobos-Cawthorne directed staff to look into getting rid of Safe and Sane fireworks and suggested non-profits could have opportunities to raise money at City Events or be given a monetary donation. City Manager suggested a formation of an Ad Hoc for more dialogue on this topic. Mayor Cobos-Cawthorne motioned to create a Fireworks Ad Hoc; Mayor Pro Tem Jimenez motioned, seconded by Councilmember Peralta; the motion was approved unanimously.
Councilmember Torres motioned for Councilmember Melendez and Councilmember Peralta to serve on the Fireworks Ad Hoc, seconded by Councilmember Peralta. Mayor Pro Tem Jimenez made a substitute motion to elect Mayor Cobos- Cawthorne and Councilmember Melendez to serve on the Fireworks Ad Hoc; the motion was approved by the following vote:
MOVED: Jimenez SECONDED: Cobos-Cawthorne APPROVED: 3-2-0-0 AYES: Cobos-Cawthorne, Melendez, Jimenez
NOES: Torres, Peralta
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
PUBLIC COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA AND AGENDA ITEMS (30 MINUTES) At this time, the general public may address the City Council/PFA on both non-agenda and agenda items. Please be aware that the maximum time allotted for members of the public to speak shall not exceed three (3) minutes per speaker.
State Law prohibits the City Council/PFA from taking action or entertaining extended discussion on a topic not listed on the agenda. Please show courtesy to others and direct all of your comments to the Mayor.
September 14, 2022: City Council and Public Financing Authority Meeting Minutes
The City Clerk’s Office acknowledged six (6) written public comments submitted to the City’s public comment email address. Said comments are on file at the City Clerk’s office. Seven (7) Speaker Cards were submitted by the public wishing to address the City Council. Speakers were provided three minutes to address the City Council and said Speaker Cards are on file at the City Clerk’s Office.
STAFF COMMUNICATIONS ON ITEMS OF COMMUNITY INTEREST
Director Sosnowski made a few announcements on upcoming City events, which included the Montebello Volunteer program holding a City Service Saturday event on September 24, 2022 at Montebello City Park and the Thursday Farmer's Market running through October.
PUBLIC HEARING
10. PUBLIC HEARING FOR ASSEMBLY BILL 481 ADOPTION OF MILITARY EQUIPMENT USE POLICY
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council:
1) Conduct a Public Hearing regarding adoption of the City of Montebello's Military Equipment Use Policy in compliance with Assembly Bill 481 (“AB 481”); and
2) Take such additional, related, action that may be desirable.
Mayor Cobos-Cawthorne opened the Public Hearing at 7:56 p.m. No presentation was made, no public comments. Mayor Cobos-Cawthorne closed the Public Hearing at 7:56 p.m.
Councilmember Torres asked that his comments made on this item during the August 24, 2022 Council Meeting be reflected in these meeting's minutes. Mayor Cobos-Cawthorne also asked that her previous comments on this item during the August 24, 2022 Council Meeting also be reflected in these meeting's minutes also.
Councilmember Melendez motioned to approve this item, seconded by Councilmember Peralta.
MOVED: Melendez SECONDED: Peralta APPROVED: 4-1-0-0 AYES: Jimenez, Peralta, Melendez, Cobos-Cawthorne
NOES: Torres
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
11. ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 22-78 APPROVING THE FISCAL YEAR 2021-22 CONSOLIDATED ANNUAL
PERFORMANCE AND EVALUATION REPORT (CAPER)
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council conduct a Public Hearing and consider the following:
1) Adopt a Resolution approving the Fiscal Year 2021-22 draft Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER); and
2) Approve the use of $40,207 in unspent CDBG funds from 2015 towards the annual payment of the City's outstanding Section 108 loan amount; and
September 14, 2022: City Council and Public Financing Authority Meeting Minutes
3) Take such additional, related action that may be desirable.
Mayor Cobos-Cawthorne opened the Public Hearing at 7:59 p.m. No presentation was made, no public comments. Mayor Cobos-Cawthorne closed the Public Hearing at 7:59 p.m.
Councilmember Torres asked clarifying questions regarding shortfalls in the Report and what accounted for these shortfalls. Director Palombi addressed these questions and stated that he would provide a report to the City Manager.
Councilmember Torres asked further clarifying questions regarding what type of housing does MCAP identify as the most urgent, if pallet shelters are considered affordable housing, and how many residents are housed at Operation Stay Safe.
Councilmember Torres proceeded to ask how many vouchers the City receives for Section 8 affordable housing and also what kind of services are in the MCAP program. City Manager Bobadilla, Director Palombi, and Assistant Director Angelica Palmeros addressed these questions.
Councilmember Peralta asked clarifying questions regarding the process in how applicants are picked, if advertisements are made for these programs, if these funds expire, and how the timeline of the amendment of the Housing Rights Center agreement would work. Director Palombi addressed her questions. Councilmember Peralta also asked if there's an opportunity for the Council to provide input on how the funds are allocated. City Manager Bobadilla noted that staff could look into this.
Mayor Cobos-Cawthorne commended Staff for addressing the missing monies from years ago and not brushing it under the rug.
Councilmemeber Melendez motioned to approve this item, seconded by Councilmember Peralta; the motion was approved unanimously.
12. ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 22-80 OF THE CITY COUNCIL AND RESOLUTION NO. 22-02 OF THE PUBLIC
FINANCING AUTHORITY AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION AND DELIVERY OF DOCUMENTS AND CERTIFICATES IN CONNECTION WITH THE ISSUANCE OF SERIES 2022A LEASE REVENUE BONDS,
APPROVING THE ISSUANCE OF SUCH BONDS, AUTHORIZING THE DISTRIBUTION OF AN OFFICIAL
STATEMENT IN CONNECTION WITH THE SALE OF SUCH BONDS, AND AUTHORIZING RELATED
ACTIONS
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council and Public Financing Authority:
1) Hold a Public Hearing with respect to the issuance of the Series 2022A Lease Revenue Bonds (“2022A Bonds”); and
2) City Council adopt a Resolution Authorizing the Execution and Delivery of a First Amendment to the Site and Facility Lease, a Third Amendment to Lease Agreement, a Continuing Disclosure Certificate, and a Bond Purchase Agreement in Connection with the Issuance by the Montebello Public Financing Authority of Lease Revenue Bonds, Approving the Issuance of Such Bonds in One or More Series in an Aggregate Principal Amount Not to Exceed $16,500,000, Authorizing the Distribution of an Official Statement in Connection with the Offering and Sale of Such Bonds, and Authorizing the Execution of Necessary Documents and Certificates and Related Actions; and
3) Montebello Public Financing Authority adopt a Resolution Authorizing the Execution and Delivery of a First Amendment to the Site and Facility Lease, a Third Amendment to Lease Agreement, a Third Supplemental Indenture, a First Amendment to Assignment Agreement, and a Bond Purchase Agreement in Connection with the Issuance of the Montebello Public Financing Authority Lease Revenue Bonds, Approving the Issuance of Such Bonds in One or More Series in an Aggregate Principal Amount Not to Exceed $16,500,000, Authorizing the Distribution of an Official Statement in Connection with the Offering and Sale of Such Bonds, and Authorizing the Execution of Necessary Documents and Certificates and Related Actions.
Director Solorza provided the City Council with a presentation on this item and was available to answer any questions.
September 14, 2022: City Council and Public Financing Authority Meeting Minutes
Mayor Pro Tem Jimenez commended Director Solorza.
Councilmember Torres asked clarifying questions regarding the "Summary of Transaction" slide on Director Solorza's presentation, asked if the annual debt service for Top Golf would be secured by the lease payments for Top Golf, Director Solorza addressed these questions and City Attorney Cardinale provided clarification also.
Councilmember Melendez thanked Director Solorza, and asked when this would go to the market. Director Solorza gave a September 29, 2022 date and said that it would go into the market then or shortly thereafter.
Councilmember Peralta asked clarifying questions regarding the facility lease portion of the bonds, since it would be using 2 facilities from previous bonds that will now be released - what is the potential timeline for these assets to be released after the issuance of these bonds, Councilmember Peralta proceeded to ask clarifying questions in regards to the bonds/bond insurance. Director Solorza addressed these questions along with Vanessa, special Counsel for Bond Insurance from Stadling Yocca Carlson & Rauth.
Mayor Cobos-Cawthorne thanked Director Solorza, asked to view page 6 of the slide presentation which goes over the audit. Mayor Cobos-Cawthorne thanked the residents who traveled to Sacramento and spoke in front of the JLAC committee and asked for an audit, expressed that this is the last item on the audit that needs to be addressed to get Montebello off the naughty list.
Mayor Cobos Cawthorne opened the Public Hearing at 8:44 p.m. The City Clerks Office acknowledged seven (7) members of the public wishing to address the City Council in opposition of this Public Hearing. The City Clerk office acknowledged one (1) member of the public wishing to address the council in support of this Public Hearing.
Mayor Pro Tem Jimenez/Vice Chairperson motioned to approve this item, seconded by Councilmember/Member Melendez; the motion was approved unanimously.
13. PUBLIC HEARING APPROVING AN ENERGY SERVICES CONTRACT WITH ALLIANCE BUILDING SOLUTIONS, INC.
NOTE: This Public Hearing will be continued to the City Council Meeting of September 28, 2022 or at a date thereafter as determined by the City Council.
The motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Jimenez and seconded by Councilmember Melendez to move this Public Hearing to be continued to a future meeting; the motion was approved unanimously.
CONSENT CALENDAR
All matters listed under the Consent Calendar are considered to be routine. Any items a Councilmember wishes to discuss should be designated at this time. All other items may be approved in a single motion. Such approval will also waive the reading of any ordinance.
Councilmember Torres pulled Item No. 15, both Councilmember Torres and Peralta pulled Item No. 17, and Mayor Cobos- Cawthorne pulled Item No. 16. Mayor Pro Tem Jimenez motioned, seconded by Councilmember Peralta, that Item No’s. 14,18,19, be approved; the motion was approved unanimously.
14. APPROVAL OF MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING NO. 22-22 BETWEEN THE CITY OF MONTEBELLO
AND THE MONTEBELLO UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT, APPROVING AN AGREEMENT TO SHARE
COMMUNICATION PLATFORMS
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council:
1) Approve a Memorandum of Understanding to share communication platforms with Montebello Unified School District (MUSD), and
2) Authorize the City Manager to execute the agreement.
September 14, 2022: City Council and Public Financing Authority Meeting Minutes
15. ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 22-76 - DECLARATION OF EXEMPT SURPLUS LAND OF CITY-OWNED PROPERTY LOCATED AT 5055 PASSONS BOULEVARD (LOS ANGELES COUNTY ASSESSOR'S PARCEL NO. 6377-007-270)
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council:
1) Adopt Resolution No. 22-76 (Attachment A) to formally declare the property located at 5055 Passons Boulevard as exempt surplus land; and
2) Take such additional, related, action that may be desirable.
Councilmember Torres made a general comment that he is against the sale of City assets.
Motioned by Councilmember Torres, seconded by Councilmember Melendez; the motion was approved by the following vote:
MOVED: Torres SECONDED: Melendez APPROVED: 4-1-0-0
AYES: Jimenez, Peralta, Melendez, Cobos-Cawthorne
NOES: Torres
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
16. ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 22-77 APPROVING SIGN LEASE AGREEMENT NO. 4026 FOR THE PROPOSED DIGITAL SIGN FOR THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 315 N. GARFIELD AVENUE AND AUTHORIZING THE
CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE SIGN LEASE AGREEMENT
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council:
1) Approve Sign Lease Agreement No. 4026 between The Archdiocese of Los Angeles Education and Welfare Corporation and Cantwell-Sacred Heart of Mary High School, and the City of Montebello for the property located at 315 N. Garfield Avenue; and
2) Authorize the City Manager to execute the Sign Lease Agreement for usage of a proposed digital sign at 315 N. Garfield Avenue; and
3) Take such additional, related, action that may be desirable.
Mayor Cobos-Cawthorne stated her support for this item. It was motioned by Mayor Cobos-Cawthorne, seconded by Councilmember Peralta; the motion was approved unanimously.
17. SECOND READING AND ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 2452 UPDATING MONTEBELLO MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTER 2.16 – DIRECTOR OF FINANCE
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council:
1) Waive Second Reading and adopt Ordinance No. 2452 Amending Montebello Municipal Code Chapter
2.16.020 – Director of Finance, Powers and Duties; and
2) Take such additional, related action(s) that may be desirable.
September 14, 2022: City Council and Public Financing Authority Meeting Minutes
Councilmember Torres asked that his comments from the August 24, 2022 City Council meeting be reflected onto these minutes.
Councilmember Peralta made a motion to approve this item only if it does not remove the language "obligation for council to receive a monthly statement of receipt and disbursements in sufficient detail to show the exact financial condition of the city; and, as of the end of each fiscal year, submit a complete financial statement and report"; City Attorney Cardinale modified the motion slightly for procedural purposes; the motion is to direct staff to amend the Ordinance as stated and bring this item back for a first reading, Councilmember Torres seconded; motion was approved unanimously.
Mayor Pro Tem Jimenez made a motion to bring this item back for reconsideration on the basis that she was unsure what the original motion was, seconded by Councilmember Melendez. City Attorney Cardinale cited Rosenberg's Rules of Order; the motion was approved unanimously.
Mayor Pro Tem Jimenez made the motion to approve the item as stated, seconded by Councilmember Melendez. The motion was approved by the following vote:
MOVED: Jimenez SECONDED: Melendez APPROVED: 3-2-0-0
AYES: Jimenez, Melendez, Cobos-Cawthorne
NOES: Torres, Peralta
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
Councilmember Peralta stated her opposition to this item being approved.
18. PAYMENT OF BILLS: ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 22-75 APPROVING THE CITY WARRANT REGISTER OF DEMAND DATED SEPTEMBER 14, 2022
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council:
1) Adopt Resolution No. 22-75 approving the Warrant Register dated September 14, 2022.
19. APPROVAL OF CITY COUNCIL MINUTES – MAY 3, 2022, SPECIAL MEETING; JUNE 1, 2022, ADJOURNED MEETING, AND JUNE 8, 2022, REGULAR MEETING.
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the City Council:
1) Approve said minutes as written.
AB 1234 TRAVEL REPORTS
Members of the City Council will provide a brief report on meetings attended at the expense of the local agency as required by Government Code Section 53232.3(d).
Members of the City Council will provide a brief report on meetings attended at the expense of the local agency as required by Government Code Section 53232.3(d).
COUNCIL ORALS
Council member announcements; requests for future agenda items; conference/meetings reports.
September 14, 2022: City Council and Public Financing Authority Meeting Minutes
• Angie M. Jimenez, Mayor Pro Tem
1) Ask for Council Consensus to direct staff to reach out to Southern California Edison to assist with the street lights in the southern part of Montebello.
2) Ask for Council Consensus to direct staff to look into working with the appropriate agencies for pedestrian safety for the intersection at Whittier Boulevard and 6th Street, in the downtown area. 3) Latino Heritage Month - ask for Council Consensus to direct staff to honor Montebello home grown, world class artist Yolanda Gonzales, and up and coming Francisco Palomares for their contributions to the Arts.
Mayor Pro Tem Jimenez requested consensus on Items 1,2, and 3. Consensus was received on all items.
• David N. Torres, Councilmember
1) Request for Council consensus for a presentation on Bicycle Master Plan implementation. 2) Request for Council consensus to update the water system map. 3) Concerns about public comments exceeding 3 minute allotment by using multiple email addresses; request to create measures to ensure fairness and prevent abuse. 4) Public safety concerns from businesses along the Whittier Blvd. corridor. 5) Follow-up on 45-day moratorium regarding warehouses and commercial trucking study.
Councilmember Torres requested consensus on Item No. 1 to direct staff to comeback with a presentation on the Bicycle Master Plan, received consensus. Asked for Council consensus for Item No. 2, staff was given direction; consensus was not needed. Requested Council consensus for Item No. 3 to direct staff to look into technology and return a report on its feasibility; received consensus 3-2.
• Salvador Melendez, Councilmember
• Scarlet Peralta, Councilmember
1) Discussion and action regarding drought conditions, water regulations and improving communications among the five water companies in Montebello to increase information for our residents. 2) Discussion on traffic & safety related concerns.
3) Request for information regarding Exit 6A Findlay Avenue and the removal of K Rails.
Councilmember Peralta asked for consensus on Item No. 1; received consensus. Requested consensus for Item No. 2 to direct staff to bring forward more formal solutions to help address the dangerous and persistent accidents that are happening on that street/intersection (Lincoln & Wilcox) - City Manager stated they did not need direction/consensus as Staff is aware of this issue and are currently working on this. Requested memo for Item No. 3, City Manager and Director Enriquez were able to address questions/concerns.
• Kimberly A. Cobos-Cawthorne, Mayor
ADJOURNMENT
The City of Montebello will adjourn to the next Regular Meeting on September 28, 2022 at 5:00 p.m. which can be live streamed at
September 14, 2022: City Council and Public Financing Authority Meeting Minutes
www.cityofmontebello.com (Click on Live Stream). I, Alicia Fernandez, Senior Deputy City Clerk for the City of Montebello hereby certify that a copy of this agenda has been posted on or before Sunday, September 11, 2022 at 5:00 p.m.
Alicia Fernandez, Senior Deputy City Clerk
Mayor Cobos-Cawthorne adjourned in memory of over the 100 lives that were lost during an attack on Armenia. Mayor Pro Tem Jimenez motioned to adjourn the meeting at 10:23 p.m.
THE MINUTES OF SEPTEMBER 14, 2022 ARE HEREBY APPROVED AND ADOPTED ON THIS 16TH DAY OF NOVEMBER 2022.
AGENDA & NON-AGENDA
SPEAKER CARDS
AGENDA & NON-AGENDA
COMMENTS
1 Caltitla, Zoraida
From: Miguel Espinoza <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 13, 2022 6:17 PM
To: comment, ccpublic
Subject: [External Email] Sep 14 Council Comment
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Flagged
Greetings Council,
My name is Miguel Espinoza and I am deeply concerned about the state of our City with regards to election. Even for Montebello, this is an unfortunate new low — we have two candidates: one in District 1 and one District 5 — both of whom are being controlled and supported by FELONS — no im not talking about Will Cervera — but rather the felon and former City Councilmember Robert Urteaga — the man who was so bad for Montebello recalled and physically removed from his seat due to utter seediness. Mr. Urteaga is a man tied into the underworld of East Los Angeles, a man who thrives and benefits on the backs of the working class and received a felony for having done so. Then, there’s former Councilmember, Christina Cortez.
Ah, Christina Cortez, the woman who is married to a felon herself, for dealing drugs. Imagine how filthy you have to be to get a felony for dealing drugs. And Christina had this happen while she was in office. Nothing like a hit of heroin and City politics during the nightly pillow talk.
So Robert Urteaga and Christina Cortez, one a felon, one married to a felon, are teaming up to support Georgina in District One, who was recently spotted walking the District in tow with new homeowner Scarlett and unemployed Angry Dave Torres. What a trio! They’re also behind Rick Alonzo in District 5. Rick seems like a nice guy, why is he getting involved with these felons.
Oh, he wants to be the marionette for David and Scarlett in exchange for achieving his dream of holding the powerful seat.
This is a problem. Shadowy figures like Robert Urteaga and Christina Cortez will always exist. But we used to scorn these individuals as the scum of society and essentially blackball them from public life. Now, they work in the shadows and control current councilmembers looking to gain new seats to control the entirety of Council. It’s very unfortunate. Georgina and Rick, have a little pride and realize the people you associate yourselves with reflect upon you. In this case, your association with felons reflects very poorly.
Miguel Espinoza
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***PLEASE DO NOT CLICK ON UNKNOWN LINKS. Contact Montebello IT Division if you are unsure.*** 1 Caltitla, Zoraida
From: Vicente Calderon <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, September 13, 2022 6:20 PM
To: comment, ccpublic
Subject: [External Email] Montebello City Council Public Comment Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Flagged
Dear Councilmembers,
I write to you tonight with great turmoil personally. You see, I don’t like to speak ill of others, I choose to see the greater good that exists within all of us — but my conflict lies with the simple fact that a Councilmember currently has betrayed their consistent claims of transparency by not sharing the facts. This Councilmember masquerades transparency for all as really - transparency for all but me. Why is it the loudest promotes of transparency and decency, the ones who talk about it the most, are always the ones that they themselves have something to hide?
Here’s the sad part: everyone knows, without me having said anything, who this Councilmember already is. Think about it for a moment longer. You already know. Don’t you?
David, be transparent and stop hiding. Release why you left the City of Los Angeles. The silence and lack of transparency on the matter makes everyone believe you committed further harassment and were forced out. This is not only unbefitting for a Councilmember, but also unbefitting for a human in general. It leads one to believe its a pattern. Otherwise, why would a young man in the vibrant peak of his career, just up and leave his job for months and months on end. It makes no sense. We deserve to hear the truth.
David, share why. Release your records. Let the truth be known and transparent for all to see. If you don’t sign a release to allow the LA office to release your disciplinary, resignation and or termination documentation, you must have something to hide. Release the records, or else everyone will assume and know you have something to hide, David!
Thank you.
Vicente Calderon
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***PLEASE DO NOT CLICK ON UNKNOWN LINKS. Contact Montebello IT Division if you are unsure.*** 1 Caltitla, Zoraida
From: Salazar, Arlene
Sent: Wednesday, September 14, 2022 9:23 AM
To: Padilla, Angelina; Fernandez, Alicia; Guillen, Kimberly (Admin) Subject: FW: [External Email] My support for TopGolf PUBLIC COMMENT
From: Cobos-Cawthorne, Kimberly Ann
Sent: Tuesday, September 13, 2022 10:18 PM
To: Bobadilla, Rene
Cc: Salazar, Arlene
Subject: Fwd: [External Email] My support for TopGolf
Please enter into public record for comment
Sent from my iPhone
Begin forwarded message:
From: Joshua Sgroi <[email protected]>
Date: September 13, 2022 at 10:00:21 PM PDT
To: "Cobos-Cawthorne, Kimberly Ann" <[email protected]> Subject: [External Email] My support for TopGolf
Hello, I am a resident of Montebello and I am for TopGolf coming to Montebello.
I've basically passed by that golf course for the majority of my life and that place is always empty. It costs more to run than it does in a day. We need change and to bring in something that brings in crowds all over LA County. I've been to 2 separate ones and they're always packed.
With the new houses being built, they're going to want high end places, and TopGolf is a guarantee to bring in money for the city. We need to do the right thing and look towards the future to help our city grow.
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***PLEASE DO NOT CLICK ON UNKNOWN LINKS. Contact Montebello IT Division if you are unsure.***
1 Caltitla, Zoraida
From: Robert Hernandez <[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, September 14, 2022 2:18 PM
To: comment, ccpublic
Subject: [External Email] This public comment is to be read on the record At the last council meeting, I submitted a public comment addressing councilwoman Peralta and her recent purchase of a home in Montebello. The councilwoman responded to my letter and attempted to state that she is an immigrant and Latina pursuing the American Dream. Although I commend her perseverance, I want the councilwoman to understand that she isn’t the only immigrant and Latina to purchase a home and that many have purchased homes after years of hard work and saving, not questionable home purchasing habits. While her statement was a great attempt to deflect, the real issue isn’t the “townhouse” councilwoman Peralta, the issue is how you acquired the funding to purchase a home that is worth almost $700,000. I understand that you stated that you and your mother had saved the money for a downpayment, and although commendable, it would be nearly impossible to save that amount based on the limited wages you received in previous years and the fact that you were unemployed in 2020. To qualify for a FHA loan, you would have to show a minimum of 2 years of employment and an income that could sustain a mortgage payment on a $700,000 home (once again, the cost of the home is the issue, not the “townhouse”). How could you show 2 years of consistent employment if you were unemployed, according to a New York Times article? How could you save for the downpayment if you were unemployed and according to the NYT article, you were struggling to cover your basic expenses? Who has money to set aside when they can barely cover the most basic of bills? There are so many red flags and I would like to remind you that many elected officials have faced charges and time in prison for purchasing lavish things while in office (later to discover they solicited money from parties wanting to do business in their city). Could the money have come from the former Mayor Christina Cortez and her friends in the cannibis industry? Could that money have trickled down to you in exchange for a favorable vote in the future? I will patiently wait for your response that has mostly likely been drafted by Julian and Dillon. What will they say? Will they try to share an inspiring story? Your smoke and mirrors show is over. Time will tell and if and when that does occur, the Department of Justice is usually right around the corner.
In the previous meeting, you stated that you want to be transparent so here is what you need to share: (1) Tax returns from 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021; (2) Bank Statements from 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021 that show that you had the downpayment saved in your account; (3) Mortgage documents; (4) Tax returns for your LLC and any deposits made; (5) Your client list for your LLC.
Or, should I address these questions to Christina Cortez? It probably isn’t wise to accept advice from a convicted drug dealer’s wife, I mean, she didn’t know he was selling drugs, right? She might have told you it was ok to accept cash to purchase your home, but remember, she won’t be the one sitting in a jail cell. Money laundering and pay to play are not jokes.
-R.H
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***PLEASE DO NOT CLICK ON UNKNOWN LINKS. Contact Montebello IT Division if you are unsure.*** 1 Caltitla, Zoraida
From: Miguel Cervera <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, September 14, 2022 2:23 PM
To: comment, ccpublic
Subject: [External Email] Public Comment, Read on the Record I'd like to exercise my 1st Amendment right and please read this message, in its entirety. Mr. City Attorney, please do not summarize my public comment, I want the comment to be read as I have written it. I would prefer to have someone else, other than the city attorney, read the public comment because this comment is too important to have words fumbled and omitted.
I am appalled by the normalization of domestic violence that has been practiced by members of our community and members of the City Council. Will Cervera is a violent criminal, a woman-beater, who has terrorized residents in Montebello for years. He beat his girlfriend to the point of near death and members of our community fail to acknowledge his actions and refuse to condemn them. The “You Know You’re From Montebello” group on Facebook has been used as a platform by woman-beater Will Cervera to attempt to spin the story and make him the victim of a failed criminal justice system. Will, you were not the victim, your girlfriend was and you admitted it. In his own words, “I offer the following facts as the basis for my guilty plea: In Orange County, California, I committed an assault on the victim and she suffered great bodily injury”. Will, what type of monster are you? You sit at the council meetings, not bothered by the actions you have taken and you smile and sit comfortably as the words are read. You exhibit the behaviors of a habitual abuser and this is disgusting. Is your level of comfort and lack of remorse and shame encouraged by the support you receive from the idiot, David John Sanchez and his foolish wife, Dr. Pattie Soltero Sanchez on Facebook and within your Facebook circle of friends? Dr. Pattie, you are a nurse and I am sure you have seen instances of domestic violence before, how can you support Will Cervera when the evidence shows that he is a monster? Shame on you and your husband. Also, Yvette “I support law enforcement” Fimbres, a Personnel Commissioner for MUSD, has shared her support for Will Cevera, a woman-beater, and his violent behaviors.
Shame on you, you are an embarrassment to MUSD and the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction. Yvette, have you noticed that Will Cervera has made it a point to constantly criticize and demean our police department? I wonder why and I wonder if it is related to his two arrests for domestic violence (2014 and 2016) and his 2018 arrest? This is the person you support, a criminal, a delinquent, a woman-beater! Does Christina “I am the boss” Cortez support Will Cervera, the woman-beater, too? Oh wait, she is a disgraced former Mayor and the wife of a convicted drug dealer so this probably doesn’t bother her. The amount of support for Will Cervera and his woman-beating ways is alarming and scary. Shame on all of you for supporting this monster.
Now, to city council. I am appalled and saddened by the lack of condemnation exhibited by our city’s leaders. Where is the support for victims of domestic violence? Why is Will Cervera, the woman-beater, allowed to attend council meetings? He is a violent criminal who has beat his own girlfriend to the point of near death. His actions need to be condemned publicly.
With a heavy heart,
Miguel
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***PLEASE DO NOT CLICK ON UNKNOWN LINKS. Contact Montebello IT Division if you are unsure.*** 1 Caltitla, Zoraida
From: Martin Arcos <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, September 14, 2022 2:44 PM
To: comment, ccpublic
Subject: [External Email] FRAUD
Good evening City Council, honorable Mayor;
I am writing regarding a fraudulent flyer sent out by Councilman Torres, in the flyer he's taking credit for fixing the streets, sales tax measure H, fireworks show, and street fair.
Point one you Torres voted twice against fixing our streets, the last time a resident went up to you and confronted why you voted against fixing streets in the South and your response was it's election time that's why they voted yes (Mayor and Pro Tem) at that meeting only you 3 were in attendance,( Mr. Melendez had Covid & Peralta was partying in Enseada) thank goodness both voted yes and our long-neglected streets are starting to be totally redone.
Point 2 You did not want the city to pursue putting Measure H on Ballot in February 2020. Thank God our Mayor along with off-duty Fire and Police, along with city personnel walked our city streets and won the trust of voters. Measure H has been a blessing we hear over and over how other cities are in financial troubles yet Montebello is solid.
Point 3 You Torres wanted to have the best Parks Director fired because you were upset Fireworks were announced by the City. You did nothing to bring the great Firework show back to Montebello but you wanted to take credit.
The last point the Street Fair, you did not attend, and please do not try and say you were ill then the very next week you were water rafting in Mexico. Again a huge thank you to our Parks Director David Sosnowski and his staff for the great job they continually do for the benefit of the residents.
Come this November Rafael Gutierrez will be elected and you Torres may not even finish your 4-year term, God willing.
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***PLEASE DO NOT CLICK ON UNKNOWN LINKS. Contact Montebello IT Division if you are unsure.***
PUBLIC HEARING
ITEM NO. 12
SPEAKER CARDS
COMMENT RECEIVED
AFTER DEADLINE
1 Padilla, Angelina
From: Concerned Resident <[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, September 14, 2022 4:09 PM
To: comment, ccpublic
Subject: [External Email] comment
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Flagged
To City Council, thank you for reading my comment and please enter it into record.
At the previous council meeting, during the reading of the email comments, and against the city's attor Mayor Cathowrne Cobos abused her power to facilitate a platform, utilizing taxpayers money, to contin Cervera, a private citizen. The Mayor bullied her authority to allow several Anonymous speakers to inti towards a private resident. I've read in detail the court documents that were facilitated through, once a deny a tragic event occurred. However, the bottom line is that Mr. Cervera served his time. I don't follo wasting our time instead of conducting important city issues. STOP TRYING TO DEFLECT OUR ATTE THE REAL ISSUES OF OUR CITY.
The only thing I can conclude is that this person, Mr. Cervera, must be saying something true or attain resort to despicable tactics against a resident.
Need I remind you what your agenda states
page 1 in the city's agenda states:
Via Email: The public may also submit emailed comments via the City’s email address...... These comm the City Council/PFA and may not be read aloud but will be entered into the record of the proceedings the posted agenda or otherwise address matters/issues within the subject matter jurisdiction of the City
Thank you,
Concerned Resident
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