Steven Carmona

The meeting commenced with the introduction of guests, including a student leading the pledge of allegiance, followed by acknowledgments of commissioners in attendance. Public comments addressed concerns regarding city upkeep, specifically the delayed pickup of bulky trash items near Real Hondo Park and issues with street sweeping cleanliness and grading on Kelton View Drive. Another resident raised concerns about the quality and safety of drinking water fountains at Rancho High School, noting that school board members allegedly instructed staff to ignore the issue despite the availability of bottled water for staff. Additionally, a resident spoke about initiating a Kowanas chapter in Pico Rivera. The council also received library updates concerning programs for teens and book club meetings, as well as refurbishment plans for the Rivera Library restrooms. The meeting proceeded to regular agenda items, including a presentation on the five-year pavement management plan update.

The meeting commenced with introductions, invocation, and the pledge of allegiance, led by a special guest. Key activities included the presentation by LA Sanitation District regarding proposed wastewater service charge rate increases for the Pico Rivera area, which are necessitated by rising operational costs (electricity and chemicals), aging infrastructure upgrades, and planning for additional water treatment capacity. The presenter noted the proposed five-year rate increase starting July 1, 2026, and highlighted cost-control measures such as leveraging grants and debt financing. The presenter also described a low water rebate program available to residents and commercial property owners. Following the presentation, public comments were heard. One speaker expressed strong support for the Let's Make a Difference campaign aimed at preventing the mishandling of prescription medications and encouraged pharmacies and the city to participate in safe disposal kiosk programs and upcoming DEA Takeback Day events. Another speaker provided an update on the community impact of Heart of Compassion Food Distribution during the 2025 holiday season.

The meeting commenced with roll call, invocation, and a flag salute led by a first-grade student. Recognition was extended to the planning commissioner, veterans commissioner, and a proclamation was issued honoring George Ramos for 42 years of dedicated service to the city, particularly in parks and recreation. Discussions included the approval of a public hearing item, followed by public comments. Key concerns raised during public comment centered on severe illegal activity, drug-related issues, vandalism, and unsafe conditions stemming from a specific property on Lexington and Gallatin Road, with residents from the area expressing deep distress. Updates were provided by the library manager regarding the reopening status of the Rivera Library, its temporary reduced hours due to ongoing construction slated to last until May 2026, and upcoming family programs like the Lunar New Year event.

The meeting commenced with an invocation and flag salute led by a local first grader. Key discussions included a public hearing regarding the adoption of California Vehicle Code section 22500 concerning parking restrictions 20 feet from intersections to improve visibility for pedestrians and cyclists, noting the city's education period is concluding. Public comments addressed long-standing infrastructure concerns, specifically the poor condition of Ballou Avenue between Lindsay and Rosemate Boulevard, with a request for a repavement schedule. The council also received commendations for Mayor John Garcia's leadership during the past year and recognized various commissioners in attendance. Furthermore, the council approved City Council Water Authority items and adopted the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for fiscal year 2024-2025, which received an unqualified opinion from auditors. The financial report highlighted increased revenues from sales tax, property tax, and significantly higher business license revenue due to Measure AB enforcement, while expenditures increased due to higher salaries, benefits, and maintenance costs.

The commission discussed organization recognition reviews for several baseball leagues, including Pico Boys Baseball League, Pico Rivera Baseball Academy, Pico Rivera Girls Fastpitch, Pico Rivera Pony Baseball, and Rivera Baseball Association. The commission also heard a departmental report on the REACH after-school program and reviewed upcoming recreation activities. Commissioner reports included updates on park facility issues at various locations.