Melissa Clemann

The board meeting agenda includes items regarding the Memorial Day Ceremony update under Directors Communication, as well as administrative reports and trustee discussions.

This Annual Action Plan for the 2026-2027 program year details the City of Downey's strategies for allocating federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME) funds. It serves as an implementation plan for the broader 2025-2029 Consolidated Plan, addressing six high-priority community needs: increasing and preserving affordable housing, improving public facilities and infrastructure, ensuring equal access to housing opportunities, providing homelessness prevention services, offering public services for low- and moderate-income residents, and maintaining program administration and compliance.

The meeting includes updates and discussions regarding library incident reports, the activities and services of the Downey City Library, and fundraising efforts, volunteer activities, and event participation from the Friends of the Downey City Library.

The City Council held a public hearing regarding the transition to a five-district election system, reviewing multiple draft district maps to ensure compliance with the California Voting Rights Act. Further discussions included a substantial amendment to the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 HUD Action Plan to reallocate grant funds, and the introduction of an ordinance to amend the Lakewood/Firestone Specific Plan to allow for commercial recreation and minor commercial recreation land uses. Additionally, the council adopted a resolution adjusting the compensation for the City Attorney, approved a construction contract for irrigation system improvements, accepted a lease agreement with the Downey City Employees Federal Credit Union, and approved a transition to a solar-powered residential streetlight program.

The board discussed and reviewed a proposed policy and template for administrative entity letters, which would allow for correspondence to be sent without board approval under specific time constraints and criteria. Additionally, an informational update was provided regarding the Water Replenishment District's request to join the Southeast Water Coalition, which was ultimately rescinded by the district. The board also received a general legislative update, reviewed a warrant register, and heard a presentation from the Association of California Water Agencies.