CITY OF SOUTH GATE
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
MINUTES
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2026
CALL TO ORDER Joshua Barron, Mayor called a Regular City Council Meeting to order at 6:30 p.m.
INVOCATION Tina De La Rosa, Acting Director of Parks & Recreation
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Jose De La Paz, City Treasurer
ROLL CALL
Yodit Glaze, City Clerk
PRESENT Mayor Joshua Barron, Vice Mayor Al Rios, Council Member Maria del Pilar Avalos, Council Member Gil Hurtado, and Council Member Maria Davila; City Treasurer Jose De La Paz, City Manager Rob Houston, City Attorney Raúl F. Salinas
1 COMMUNITY DEV/
HOUSING The City Council opened the Public Hearing, received public testimony, and continued the item to the regularly scheduled City Council meeting on March 10, 2026, by motion of Council Member Hurtado and seconded by Council Member Avalos.
2 PROPERTY USE
ADMIN/PERMITS The City Council opened the Public Hearing, received public testimony, and continued the item to the regularly scheduled City Council meeting on March 10, 2026, by motion of Council Member Hurtado and seconded by Council Member Avalos.
ROLL CALL: Council Member Avalos, yes; v Council Member Hurtado, yes; Council Member Davila, yes; Vice Mayor Rios, yes; Mayor Barron, yes.
3 BUDGET ADMIN/
ELECTION ADMIN The City Council considered:
a. Adopting a Resolution declaring a Fiscal Emergency;
b. Adopting a Resolution calling a Special Election, request that the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors (“Board of Supervisors”) authorize the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk (“County Elections Official”) to render all services necessary to conduct the Election, allow for Ballot Arguments, and an Impartial Analysis; and
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 24, 2026
3 BUDGET ADMIN/
ELECTION ADMIN CONT’D
c. Reviewing the draft Ordinance for voter consideration of the Utility Users Tax.
Councilmember Davila thanked members of the public for their participation and input, both in support of and opposition to the proposed Utility Users Tax (UUT). She reiterated her position that the City Council’s responsibility is to declare a fiscal emergency and place the measure on the ballot, allowing voters to decide through the democratic process.
She emphasized the importance of community education, noting concerns about misinformation, particularly on social media, and clarified that some sources are not affiliated with official City departments. Councilmember Davila stated that the decision to approve or reject the tax ultimately rests with the voters, not the Council, and reaffirmed her support for moving the measure forward to the ballot for public consideration.
Councilmember Avalos acknowledged the presence of labor representatives and residents and thanked the public for their participation and input. She expressed concern regarding the City’s current fiscal deficit, noting prior awareness of financial challenges and emphasizing the need for accountability in past funding, including revenues generated through Measure P.
Councilmember Avalos stated that now is not the appropriate time to increase taxes, citing the financial hardships faced by residents, including rising living costs, economic instability, and impacts to families, seniors, and vulnerable populations. She emphasized the importance of prioritizing the community’s financial well-being and avoiding additional burdens on residents.
She called for greater transparency and accountability, including the potential establishment of an oversight body to monitor City revenues and expenditures, and raised concerns regarding the lack of ongoing reporting related to prior funding measures.
Councilmember Avalos urged the City to explore alternative solutions to address the deficit, such as cost reductions, efficiency measures, and additional funding sources, before considering new taxes. She reaffirmed her commitment to representing and protecting the interests of residents, emphasizing trust, fiscal responsibility, and equitable solutions.
Councilmember Hurtado stated he attended the meeting to listen to public input and emphasized the importance of community engagement and dialogue. He expressed concern regarding misinformation circulating in REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 24, 2026
3 BUDGET ADMIN/ELECTION
ADMIN CONT’D the community and on social media, particularly related to the proposed Utility Users Tax (UUT) and other City matters.
He provided context regarding the City’s long-standing structural deficit, including historical factors affecting property tax allocations and revenue limitations. He noted that these financial challenges have persisted over time and impact the City’s ability to maintain services.
Councilmember Hurtado addressed concerns related to City employees, emphasizing their past sacrifices, including prior pay reductions, and rejected suggestions of improper influence or decision-making.
He reiterated that the City Council’s role is to allow voters the opportunity to decide on the UUT and expressed support for placing the measure on the ballot, including declaring a fiscal emergency. He encouraged residents to conduct their own research and emphasized the importance of informed decision-making.
Vice Mayor Rios thanked residents, staff, and stakeholders for their participation and emphasized the importance of community engagement and public input on the proposed Utility Users Tax (UUT). He noted that the issue has been thoroughly discussed and highlighted the need to educate and inform the community so residents can make an informed decision.
He acknowledged the financial challenges facing both residents and the City, including rising operational costs, and recognized that similar fiscal issues are affecting other jurisdictions. Vice Mayor Rios emphasized the Council’s responsibility to represent all constituents, both those in support of and opposed to the UUT.
He stated that the current action before the Council is to declare a fiscal emergency and place the measure on the ballot, allowing voters to decide.
He expressed support for moving forward with this process, while also emphasizing the importance of transparency and accountability.
Vice Mayor Rios highlighted the need for a Citizens Oversight Committee, proposing a structure that would include community members appointed by the Council to provide input on budget priorities and fiscal decisions. He noted this would help ensure public trust and engagement moving forward.
He also expressed concern about potential impacts to City services and quality of life if additional revenue solutions are not pursued, and encouraged continued collaboration to identify long-term, sustainable solutions for the City’s financial stability.
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 24, 2026
3 BUDGET ADMIN/ELECTION
ADMIN CONT’D The City Clerk addressed the Council and public regarding the City’s ongoing financial challenges, noting that these issues are longstanding and require continued attention and solutions. She acknowledged the work of City staff and the Police Department, expressing appreciation for their dedication, service, and contributions to the community.
She also emphasized the importance of respecting City employees, noting concerns about inaccurate information related to employee compensation and its impact on staff morale. She highlighted that such information is publicly available and should be accurately represented.
The City Clerk underscored the importance of the democratic process, stating that the matter before the Council is to provide residents the opportunity to vote and make their own decision regarding the proposed measure. She emphasized that the broader community deserves the ability to participate and have their voices heard.
She concluded by reinforcing the importance of unity, respect, and collaboration, and expressed confidence in the City’s ability to move forward together.
Mayor Barron acknowledged the ongoing fiscal challenges facing the City and noted that while many cities are experiencing similar issues, South Gate still has the option to consider a Utility Users Tax (UUT) as a potential revenue solution. He emphasized the City’s history of maintaining relatively low tax rates compared to surrounding jurisdictions.
He addressed concerns regarding misinformation, encouraging accurate communication with residents and emphasizing the importance of providing clear and factual information. He noted that residents have expressed a desire for enhanced City services, including public safety and code enforcement, and highlighted the connection between service levels and available funding.
Mayor Barron also spoke in support of City employees, noting their dedication, prior financial sacrifices, and contributions to maintaining City operations and services.
He emphasized the importance of community engagement and outreach, sharing that he has met with numerous residents to discuss the issue and answer questions. He stated that the matter before the Council is to place the measure on the ballot, allowing residents the opportunity to decide through the democratic process.
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 24, 2026
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ADMIN CONT’D Mayor Barron concluded by expressing his commitment to the community and supporting actions that provide residents with the opportunity to participate in decisions affecting the City’s future.
Council Member Hurtado motioned to approve item 3 (as amended) and seconded by Vice Mayor Rios.
AMENDMENT: Include the Citizens Oversight Committee and City Council would appoint a person to the committee for transparency.
This subject was thoroughly discussed but died for lack of support.
ROLL CALL: Council Member Avalos, no; Council Member Hurtado, yes; Council Member Davila, yes; Vice Mayor Rios, yes; Mayor Barron, yes.
COMMENTS FROM THE
AUDIENCE - NON-AGENDA
ITEMS Ruth Serrano, a South Gate resident, requested that city council allow South Gate employee Wendy to remain at the Senior Center.
Robyn Logan, Hunt Avenue, reiterated her ongoing concerns regarding pedestrian traffic safety. She addressed the City Council about the continued issues caused by construction on Atlantic Avenue, noting that many students have been crossing against traffic at Pinehurst and Tweedy.
Maria Silva Corona, a South Gate resident, expressed concerns regarding the construction at Atlantic and Wood and inquired about its anticipated completion date. Additionally, she criticized the way the Utility Users Tax was voted and asserted that union support for Mayor Barron contributed to the turnout at the meeting.
Angela Lucero, a South Gate resident, reported that her daughter, a teacher at Montara Elementary School, has experienced repeated issues with bar patrons parking in the alley behind the school. The parked vehicles obstruct teachers from exiting the school parking lot. She is requesting that a police unit conduct periodic drive-bys to assess the situation.
Richard Lutz, 8990 Atlantic Avenue, reported ongoing issues on Rayo Avenue, just north of the train tracks near Reliable Steel. He stated that carriers frequently park in the traffic lanes on Rayo to unload directly into the facility, creating significant traffic and safety concerns. Mr. Lutz noted that he contacts the Police Department approximately four times a week regarding this matter and, given the potential reduction in staffing following the recent vote, requested additional patrols in the area while resources remain available.
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 24, 2026
COMMENTS FROM THE
AUDIENCE - NON-AGENDA
ITEMS (EMAILS) Mario Domínguez, a South Gate resident, expressed support for funding electric buses and requested that the city equip them with bike racks to allow cyclists to safely cross bridges. He asked the Council to ensure that at least one bus on the eastside route includes these features to improve accessibility and safety.
Brenda Rojas, a South Gate resident, noted that under the City’s contract with UWS, there are specific requirements governing the handling of complaints, including maintaining complaint records and providing them to the City upon request. Failure to respond within the required timeframe or comply with these terms should result in the applicable contractual remedies.
REPORTS AND COMMENTS
FROM CITY OFFICIALS Arturo Cervantes, Director of Public Works, reported that the ongoing project on Atlantic Avenue is being completed by Los Angeles County.
The work involves a long-term sewer rehabilitation project focused primarily on underground pipeline improvements. Additional information will be available on the City’s website.
Tina De La Rosa, Acting Director of Parks and Recreation, reported that the weekend golf tournament was a success. She also noted that registration is open for the upcoming 5K run for those interested.
Additionally, Easter Fest registration has begun and is already one-third full.
Gabriel Perez, Director of Community Development, reported having a committee open house last week regarding the planned Southeast Gateway Line metro station at Atlantic and Firestone. Additional information is available on the city’s website.
Mayor Barron asked Mr. Perez whether any of the potential staff reductions would affect the project.
Mr. Perez explained that additional staff work will be needed to support post-plan activities and to help present the potential development and surrounding housing in an attractive manner. He also reminded the Council that the consultant-led community engagement and plan development effort is fully grant funded through a $300,000 state grant, with the support from SCAG and the Gateway Cities COG.
Luis Frausto, Director of Administrative Services, previously reported ongoing issues with the online utility payment portal. The system continues to experience frequent outages, and staff are working to restore REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 24, 2026
REPORTS AND COMMENTS
FROM CITY OFFICIALS
CONT’D access multiple times each week. Administrative Services is coordinating with the City Manager’s Office to provide public communication regarding the situation.
A long-term solution is in progress, and contract negotiations are underway. Implementation is expected to take at least three months from project initiation, so a stable and fully functional portal is unlikely before July or August of this year. In the meantime, we are experiencing increased in-person visits and are adjusting staffing accordingly.
Mayor Barron requests more frequent updates, as Council Members are being asked about the timeline.
Jon Hamilton, Director of Human Services – nothing to report.
Sergio Camacho, Police Captain – nothing to report.
Rob Houston, City Manager, noted that while the city has a strong community and dedicated staff, some employees received difficult news this evening regarding impending layoffs, which will affect staffing levels and morale. As we move forward and service levels are reduced, he emphasized the importance of being mindful of our decisions and the direction we are headed.
Council Member Hurtado thanked City Manager for his commitment.
Raúl F. Salinas, City Attorney – nothing to report.
City Treasurer De La Paz referenced prior discussion regarding Measure P, noting that if language required the establishment of a committee or commission, it should be revisited to help restore community trust and accountability.
He also expressed support for the previously discussed proposal to create a community-based oversight or advisory committee as part of the budget planning process, emphasizing the importance of community involvement and transparency. He encouraged the Council to consider appointing engaged community members, regardless of differing viewpoints, to participate in the process.
City Treasurer De La Paz highlighted the need for continued dialogue, collaboration, and planning, and emphasized the importance of building public confidence and trust as the City moves forward.
Yodit Glaze, City Clerk, thanked Naomi from Parks for attending and providing translation services.
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 24, 2026
REPORTS AND COMMENTS
FROM CITY OFFICIALS
CONT’D Mayor Barron also thanked Naomi for doing a great job.
Councilmember Avalos thanked staff for providing Spanish translation services and reminded the community that proposed budget reductions are not final and will require further discussion and approval by the Council.
Pursuant to AB 1234, she reported attending a Vector Control meeting, where she was selected to travel to Sacramento to advocate on behalf of the City. She indicated plans to meet with state representatives to explore opportunities for additional revenue and legislative support, including addressing inequities in property tax allocations.
Councilmember Avalos also reiterated the importance of reestablishing a Measure P oversight body to improve transparency and rebuild public trust, and emphasized her commitment to continued advocacy and community engagement moving forward.
Councilmember Davila expressed appreciation for City staff, recognizing their hard work and dedication in providing information and support to the Council. She specifically acknowledged the City Manager and his team for their efforts during challenging circumstances.
She also noted the difficulty of potential staffing reductions, expressed her support for staff, and thanked them for their continued commitment to the City.
Councilmember Hurtado expressed concerns regarding the role and conduct of commissioners, emphasizing the importance of open communication, collaboration, and mutual respect. He noted efforts to engage with commissioners and community members and encouraged constructive dialogue and willingness to consider differing perspectives.
He discussed the City’s ongoing structural financial challenges, including limited revenue sources and property tax allocations, and emphasized the importance of public understanding of fiscal constraints. He also addressed concerns related to misinformation, particularly on social media, and encouraged residents to seek accurate information and conduct independent research.
Councilmember Hurtado highlighted the need for fiscal responsibility and transparency, noting his personal approach to minimizing expenditures and avoiding the use of public funds for non-essential purposes.
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 24, 2026
REPORTS AND COMMENTS
FROM CITY OFFICIALS
CONT’D He cautioned that potential budget reductions may significantly impact City services, urging the community to be prepared for possible changes.
He concluded by noting he would be absent from the next meeting due to a prior family commitment.
Vice Mayor Rios acknowledged Black History Month and reflected on the legacy of civil rights leader Reverend Jesse Jackson, highlighting messages of unity, hope, and community empowerment. He encouraged maintaining a positive outlook and working collaboratively to address challenges facing the City.
He also inquired about recognizing a local Rams championship team, noting the importance of acknowledging their achievement and requesting follow-up to coordinate a future recognition.
Mayor Barron thanked residents, employees, and staff for their participation and acknowledged the challenging circumstances facing the City, noting that difficult decisions lie ahead. He emphasized the importance of collaboration and unity in identifying solutions that minimize impacts on the community.
He expressed concern regarding the sustainability of current staffing and service levels, noting that continued vacancies and reductions may impact operations and employee retention. He reaffirmed his support for City staff and the City Manager’s leadership, recognizing their efforts and commitment to the community.
Mayor Barron suggested exploring options to place a measure on a future ballot, including the potential for a November election, to provide additional time and demonstrate commitment to addressing the City’s fiscal challenges.
He encouraged continued community engagement and partnership, emphasizing the importance of working together to find solutions. He also addressed concerns regarding misinformation, noting efforts to provide accurate information to residents and encouraging informed public participation.
Mayor Barron concluded by reiterating his commitment to the community and to working collaboratively toward solutions that support the City’s future.
Council Member Avalos asked the City Attorney and City Manager whether the City will follow established policies and procedures for placing items on the ballot. This would include publishing the survey REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 24, 2026
REPORTS AND COMMENTS
FROM CITY OFFICIALS
CONT’D results and any supporting or opposing arguments, similar to the process used for Measure P.
City Attorney Salinas stated that he would be happy to address the question at a future time but could not do so at the moment because the item was not on the agenda.
Council Member Avalos acknowledged this response.
Council Member Hurtado acknowledged that the Municipal Code can be amended and asked the City Attorney to outline the process.
City Attorney Salinas responded briefly, noting that because the item was not on the agenda, only general information could be provided. He explained that the Municipal Code is established through ordinances, which may be repealed, amended, replaced, or newly enacted. Any such changes must be presented to the City Council, published as required, considered at a public meeting, and formally acted upon.
Council Member Hurtado will be requesting a meeting with City Attorney and City Manager about making changes to the Municipal Code.
Mayor Barron reiterated Mr. Dominguez’s inquiry regarding the Gate bus and clarified that he had been unaware the buses lacked bike racks and that bicycles are not permitted on board.
Tina De La Rosa, Acting Director of Parks & Recreation, confirmed that bicycles are not allowed on the Gate bus. She explained that Parks & Recreation previously reviewed the request and determined that a front- mount bike rack cannot be installed because the driver’s low seating position would obstruct visibility. A rear-mounted rack is also not feasible because it would block the emergency exit. She added that incorporating bike racks would require the purchase of new buses, and the city must evaluate bus specifications carefully—particularly low-floor kneeling buses, which can pose safety concerns at higher curbs. Parks & Recreation has discussed future bus purchases with the bus company to ensure bike racks can be included.
Mayor Barron acknowledged Ms. Logan’s concern regarding the crossing at Tweedy and Pinehurst, noting it has long been a problematic location.
He stated that discussions should occur with the school collaborative to explore whether parent groups or volunteers may be willing to serve as crossing guards given the potential shortage.
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 24, 2026
REPORTS AND COMMENTS
FROM CITY OFFICIALS
CONT’D Vice Mayor Rios asked the City Manager whether today was the final day to address the UUT, noting that no exceptions were permitted.
City Manager Houston confirmed that the action must occur during a regularly scheduled meeting, and today is the last such meeting before the March 6 deadline established by the County. He added that continuing this meeting would be the only alternative.
City Attorney Salinas noted that this contingency had been discussed during the department head meeting. He stated that the vote must take place during a Regular City Council Meeting; however, there is precedent for adjourning a meeting and reconvening it the following Tuesday while maintaining its status as a regular meeting.
Council Member Hurtado mentioned putting staff and people through a lot tonight and expecting to do it again. The only way he would accept adjourning tonight’s meeting if there will be a change in the outcome, and he is not willing to have everyone go through this process again.
Mayor Barron asked Councilwoman Avalos whether any additional information was needed that might affect her decision on the appropriate course of action.
Councilwoman Avalos responded in the negative.
CONSENT CALENDAR Agenda Items 4 and 5 were approved by motion of Council Member Hurtado and seconded by Council Member Avalos.
ROLL CALL: Council Member Avalos, yes; Council Member Hurtado, yes; Council Member Davila, yes (recused from item 4); Vice Mayor Rios, yes; Mayor Barron, yes.
4 DEEDS & EASEMENTS The City Council approved items A & B during consent calendar:
a. Resolution No. 2006-06-CC entitled Resolution of the City Council of the City of South Gate, California, approving a permanent easement to the Southern California Edison Company (SCE) for the construction, use, operation, and maintenance of electrical infrastructure at 4035 Tweedy Boulevard in support of vehicle charging stations serving the Los Angeles County Leland R. Weaver Library; and
b. Authorized the Mayor to execute the Easement in a form acceptable to the City Attorney.
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 24, 2026 5 MINUTES The City Council unanimously approved items A & B during consent calendar:
a. Special and Regular Meeting minutes of January 13, 2026; and b. Special and Regular Meeting minutes of January 27, 2026. 6 WARRANTS The City Council unanimously approved the Warrant Register for February 24, 2026, by motion of Mayor Barron and seconded by Council Member Hurtado.
Total ofChecks: $ 3,392,212.42
Less:Voids $ (15,000.00)
Less: Employee Payroll Deductions $ (484,885.33)
GrandTotal: $ 3,862,097.75
Cancellations: 112857
ROLL CALL: Council MemberAvalos, yes; v Council Member Hurtado, yes; Council Member Davila, yes; Vice Mayor Rios, yes; Mayor Barron, yes.
ADJOURNMENT Council Member Hiutado unanimously adjourned the meeting in memory of the individuals in Mexico who have experienced significant trauma following the recent arrest and the resulting unrest, particularly in the state of Jalisco; Aracely Macedo, South Gate resident, and Ruben Silva, cousin to the uncle of Council Member Davila at 11:15 p.m. and seconded by Mayor Barron.
PASSED and APPROVED on this 24" day of March 2026.
ATTEST:
Josh arron, Mayor Yodit G City Clerk