The South El Monte City Council convened for its adjourned regular meeting on May 24, addressing a range of budget, safety, and community partnership items. The session began with Mayor Gloria Olmos calling the meeting to order. Councilmember Manuel Acosta participated remotely in line with Assembly Bill 2449 provisions due to official travel.
Presentations Highlight Community Support
Council presentations included proclamations recognizing National Public Works Week and Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Cindy Wu, a Mountain View School District board member, and local business owner Sheri Li accepted the heritage month recognition.
Amanda Mejia of Athens Services received a Certificate of Recognition for her service. Jessica Alvarenga was introduced as the company’s new liaison to the City. In addition, South El Monte Librarian Sil Ruiz presented details on library resources and programs available to residents.
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department shared April enforcement updates. Code Enforcement Supervisor Joe Martinez provided a report on recent safety and compliance efforts in the city.
Budget and Contracts Move Forward
The Council approved the meeting agenda with corrections. Among consent items adopted were expenditures totaling $454,704.16 and amendments to an agreement with Dudek for updates to the City’s Housing Element.
Council introduced two ordinances. One ordinance adjusts the selection of commission chairpersons, returning terms to one year instead of rotating every two months. The second ordinance clarifies penalties for unauthorized use of the City Seal and other municipal code violations.
Other approvals included participation in the CalRecycle Used Oil Recycling Program and an amendment supporting regional Vehicle Miles Traveled analysis in collaboration with the San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments.
The Council held the first budget study session for Fiscal Year 2023-2024. Finance Director Masami Higa outlined proposed expenditures and priorities. The Council directed staff to finalize the budget for adoption.
Community Partnerships and Firework Permits Approved
In further business, the Council approved five fireworks stand permits for the upcoming Fourth of July celebrations. A Memorandum of Understanding was also approved with the Valle Lindo School District to offer summer learning recovery services for local students.
Additionally, the Council adopted an agreement with Moss, Levy & Hartzheim LLP to conduct auditing services for the city.
Responding to a request from Epiphany Catholic Church, the Council unanimously agreed to waive city fees related to a planned procession on June 11.
New Safety Measures on Lidcome Avenue
During Councilmember agenda items, Mayor Pro Tem Richard Angel introduced a proposal to install speed dots on Lidcome Avenue near New Temple Park. He shared concerns from residents about vehicles speeding through the area. The Council voted to direct city staff to install the traffic-calming devices.
Councilmember Reports and Meeting Closure
Councilmembers reported attending recent events, including the California Contract Cities Conference and the International Council of Shopping Centers Conference. Mayor Olmos also noted the Los Angeles County Sanitation District meeting and announced animal adoption opportunities through SEAACA.
The meeting adjourned in memory of entertainer Tina Turner and community member Gloria Molina. The next regular meeting is scheduled for June 13 at 6 p.m.
For more details on South El Monte Council decisions, visit the city’s official website at www.cityofsouthelmonte.org.
