Mayor and City Council
Mario Trujillo
District 5
Mayor
Hector Sosa
District 2
Mayor Pro Tem
Horacio Ortiz
District 1
Council Member
Dorothy Pemberton
District 3
Council Member
Claudia M. Frometa
District 4
Council Member
Mission
Proudly committed to continuously improving the quality of life for the Downey community by providing excellent service in a professional ethical and responsible manner.
Values
Integrity • Commitment • Respect • Teamwork
Engagement • Passion • Excellence
City Council Priorities
Fiscal Responsibility
Economic Vibrancy
Efficiency and Adaptability
Quality of Life, Safety and Infrastructure
Public Engagement
Fiscal Year 2023-2024
CITY MANAGEMENT TEAM
Roger Bradley City Manager
Vaniah De Rojas Assistant City Manager
John Funk City Attorney
Maria Alicia Duarte City Clerk
Scott Loughner Chief of Police
Dan Hurlock Fire Chief
Stephen Hannah Director of Finance
Irma Huitron Director of Community Development
Matthew Baumgardner Director of Public Works/ City Engineer
James McQueen Director of Human Resources
Jason Chacon Director of Parks and Recreation
Benjamin Dickow Executive Director & President
Columbia Memorial Space Center, Downey City Library
Austin Ramirez Director of Economic Development
City Manager Introduction Letter
Honorable Mayor, Members of the City Council, Downey Residents and Friends:
It is with great pride and enthusiasm that I present the annual City Accomplishments Report for Fiscal Year 2023-2024. Our accomplishments this year reflect our dedication to the City Council’s overarching priorities of Fiscal Responsibility, Economic Vibrancy, Efficiency & Adaptability, Quality of Life, Safety & Infrastructure, and Public Engagement.
The City continues to maintain fiscal responsibility to ensure the City’s financial stability and prudent management of resources. This year, the City developed the 12th consecutive balanced budget and received prestigious awards, including the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) and the California Society of Municipal Finance Officers (CSMFO) Distinguished Budget Awards for the City’s Budget and Excellence in Financial Reporting for the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report. The Finance Department implemented a new financial information reporting platform, and began implementing a new budget preparation software. Additionally, the City’s Purchasing Policy was updated, and the average maturity for City investments was lengthened to improve long-term portfolio performance.
The City worked to achieve Economic Vibrancy by continuing to foster economic growth and development throughout the City. The City enhanced the Accela Citizen Access (ACA) portal, streamlining development project reviews and approvals. Key projects include the upcoming Sprouts at the former Bed, Bath & Beyond site, and the successful “Spend Local” campaign. The Community Development Department processed, entitled, and facilitated multiple commercial and industrial projects, including Diosa, Silverlake Ramen, Shake Shack, Nothing Bundt Cakes and Avenue Pizza/Mandala/Beso.
The City continued to strengthen operational efficiency and adaptability within all City departments. A Formalized Training Plan was implemented for all Police Department personnel and introduced a New Digital Evidence Collection Program for the Department. The Fire Department deployed new Mobile Data Computers in all apparatuses and upgraded the Fire Station alerting server to support Dispatch Services for neighboring cities, exemplifying our commitment to leveraging technology for improved services. Additionally, automated pay stations were installed at Wilderness Park and a software update system was introduced for the City of Downey’s Dial A Ride vehicles.
The City continued to work diligently to improve the quality of life for residents by enhancing recreational opportunities and community services. The Parks and Recreation Department replaced the City’s fleet of golf carts at Rio Hondo Golf Course, and coordinated the Downey 150th
Founding Celebrations. The City was honored with the Award of Excellence from the California Parks & Recreation Society for its participation in the Southeast Cities Senior Dance event and also received the Healthy Play Initiative award for the innovative design of the Rio San Gabriel Park playground. The Community Based Organization (CBO) funding program was launched to support local initiatives. The Police Department expanded the Drone Program and implemented a new Facility Dog Program. The Fire Department trained over 110 citizens through our Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) process. Our emergency response efforts included answering 127,000 PD calls for service and deploying the Fire Tactical EMS (TEMS) team with DPD SWAT on ten assignments. Infrastructure improvements included concrete replacement and security fencing at Fire Station 1, traffic signal upgrades, and various water system enhancements throughout the community. The City also removed 500,000 square feet of graffiti and provided 150,000 pounds of sand during the storm season to combat effects of Hurricane Hillary. The Columbia Memorial Space Center engaged 72,000 participants through its workshops and classes, and continued the design for it’s 2nd building expansion. The proactive Code Enforcement Program emphasized voluntary compliance and community education, ensuring a vibrant and well-maintained city.
The City continued to foster community engagement and transparency in city governance by completing the City’s first strategic plan, Downey Forward – 2030 Strategic Plan, a roadmap for the next five years. Additionally, the Library issued 4,446 new library cards, hosted 458 programs with over 18,000 attendees. The City welcomed Richard Carpenter to celebrate the Carpenter’s 55th Anniversary event, coordinated the Downey Discussion Process, and established a centralized PIO office to enhance communication and public outreach. Additionally, the City Clerk’s office successfully managed the November 7, 2023, Special Municipal Election for Council District 1 and 3, ensuring a smooth and transparent electoral process.
In conclusion, the accomplishments of this past year demonstrate the City of Downey’s unwavering dedication to excellence and innovation. These achievements are the result of the collective efforts of our City Council, dedicated staff, and engaged community members. As we look ahead, the City remains committed to building on these successes and continuing to provide outstanding services to our community.
Respectfully submitted,
Roger Bradley City Manager
FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY
Maintain a financially stable local government.
Fiscal Responsibility
Maintain a financially stable local government.
HIGHLIGHTS
• Developed the 12th consecutive Balanced Budget
• Received the 11th consecutive GFOA and CSMFO Distinguished Budget Awards for the City’s Fiscal Year 2023-2024 Budget
• Received the GFOA Award for Excellence in Financial Reporting for the City’s Fiscal Year 2022-2023 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report
• Implemented a new financial information reporting platform to enhance transparency, streamline data access for decision-makers, and improve accuracy in financial reporting across departments
• Selected and began implementation of new budget preparation software, ClearGov
• Revised and implemented chapters 3 and 4 of the City’s Purchasing policy to streamline procurement processes for supplies, materials, services, equipment, and general services while maintaining existing safeguards to ensure accountability and compliance
• Lengthened the average maturity for City investments to improve long-term portfolio performance without reducing portfolio safety
• Secured $2.7 Million from State of California for the Columbia Memorial Space Center 2nd building expansion
BY THE NUMBERS
94% Pension Plan Funding Level 30,000 Finance Counter Transactions
100% Monthly Financial Status Reports Issued Within 15 Days or Less
$17M Grants Secured 35% Operating Reserve
74,925
141,000
Fiscal Responsibility
FY 2024-2024 General Fund Revenues
FY 2024-2025 General Fund Expenditures (by revenue source) (by department) *The Columbia Memorial Space Center Department is listed under Special Revenue Fund - Fund 24
Economic Vibrancy
Support community needs through stable, vibrant and diverse local economy.
Economic Vibrancy
Support community needs through stable, vibrant and diverse local economy.
HIGHLIGHTS
• Processed, entitled, and facilitated the development of multiple commercial/industrial projects city-wide including Sprouts, Prologis, Chicken Koop, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Gaucho Grill/Mercado Market, The Olive, Coffee Bean-Kaiser, Telegraph Medical Center, Honda World, and Sephora
• Processed 184 Planning applications/entitlements
• Streamlined project reviews and approvals in Downtown Downey such as Diosa, Silverlake Ramen, Shake Shack, Avenue Pizza/Mandala/Beso, the bi-weekly night market and similar special events
• Commenced the implementation of the Housing Element/General Plan Update including: 1) Updates to Land Use Element and map to reflect housing element sites; 2) new Environmental Justice Element; 3) targeted zoning amendments and zoning map; 4) new objective design standards; and 5) associated community engagement
• Launched Spend Local and Discover Downey rebrand to promote small businesses and cultural events in the City
• Entitled 45 residential units, across 4 project sites
• Expand Code Enforcement proactive efforts to help preserve the City’s beautiful neighborhoods and commercial centers
• Code Enforcement staff opened 1,678 and closed 1,524 cases
• Facilitated the YMCA project by managing a $3 million state grant, waiving $296,081 in City fees, and formalizing a development agreement to oversee project timelines, design, and grant reporting, with construction beginning in late 2024 and construction concluding April 2026
BY THE NUMBERS
184
Planning Applications
400 Businesses Assisted
348
City-based Business Licenses Issued
1,358 Discover Downey posts across all social media platforms
Prologis - 9350 Hall Road
Approved the construction of a new 510,110 S.F concrete tilt-up warehouse/logistics building and demolition of existing buildings. The project includes 614 auto parking spaces, 215 trailer and/or container parking spaces and 109 dock loading doors. Completion is anticipated in 2025.
Honda World - 11000 Florence Ave
Phase 1 of this project includes a new 6,872 S.F. parts storage; new 43,601 sq. ft. service shop, body shop, and detail area. Phase 2 of this project includes a 25,736 S.F. 2 story showroom and 4,470 sq. ft. service area. Total site development 234,057 S.F.
Sprouts - 12060 Lakewood Blvd
A new Sprouts Farmers Market to occupy the former Bed Bath & Beyond tenant space located at the Downey Landing. Completion is anticipated in Fall 2024.
Efficiency and Adaptability
Create an environment where new processes and programs are encouraged and are used to improve internal and external services.
Efficiency and Adaptability
Create an environment where new processes and programs are encouraged and are used to improve internal and external services.
HIGHLIGHTS
• Enhanced the Accela Citizen Access (ACA) portal allowing customers to: 1) submit for electronic plan check review; 2) check status online; and 3) submit payments electronically
• Initiated Police Department staff assessment to evaluate operational needs, optimize staffing levels, and ensure the department is adequately resourced to meet public safety goals
• The Fire Department deployed new Mobile Data Computers in all apparatuses
• Implemented a new Fire Department Records Management System (RMS)
• Upgraded Fire Station alerting server to support Dispatch Services to Compton and Santa Fe Springs Fire Departments
• Installed Verizon Connect Fleet Tracking System on 14 support vehicles in the Fire Department
• Implemented Advanced Problem Solving (APS) online training program and dashboard to improve response times, enhance safety, and streamline tasks in the Fire Department
• Provided emergency response training to Fire Department personnel regarding Anhydrous Ammonia incidents
• Conducted recruitment and selection processes establishing 122 eligibility/hiring lists to meet City staffing needs
• Implemented program deploying Narcan at City facilities
• Completed 3 labor negotiations
• Completed the implementation of an online Public Records Request Software and trained City staff
• Implemented new City identification card system
• Developed an Armed Forces Salary and Benefit Policy
• Revised part-time employee salary ranges
• Implemented a formalized training plan for all Police Department personnel
• Focused on recruitment for both sworn and non-sworn Police Department personnel
• Implemented a program for tracking false burglary alarm activations in the City
• Implemented new processes and technology for the collection and processing of evidence
• Implemented software update systems for Downey Dial-A-Ride vehicles
• Automated pay stations at Wilderness Park went live
BY THE NUMBERS
11,951
Building Inspections Performed
696 Advanced Water Meters Installed
41,200 Counter Visits to Community Development and Public Works Departments
1,678
481 Public Works Permits
Code Enforcement Violations Investigated
BY THE NUMBERS
6,088 Employment Applications Processed
600
Public Records Requests Received and Processed
884
Personnel Status Reports (PSR) Processed for Authorized Payroll Actions
24
Subpoenas, Summons and Claims Received and Processed
13
HR Employee Training Sessions on a Wide Range of Topics
2,342
Employee Information Technology Requests Received and Assisted
100% ADA/LAP Requests Responded
Quality of Life, Safety & Infrastructure
Foster a safe community through key investments and provide inclusive, diverse
Quality of Life, Safety & Infrastructure
Foster a safe community through key investments and provide inclusive, diverse community programs and activities.
HIGHLIGHTS
• Received Award of Excellence from California Parks & Recreation Society for participation and involvement in the South East Cities Senior Dance event
• Received the Healthy Play Initiative award from California Parks & Recreation Society for the design of the Rio San Gabriel Park playground
• Developed the Downey Forward 2030 Strategic Plan
• Conducted citywide weekly encampment clean-ups and associated outreach
• Implemented a proactive Code Enforcement Program, with an emphasis on voluntary compliance and community education/outreach resulting in neighborhood beautification
• Expanded the Drone Program in the Police Department
• Downey City Library eliminated fines for overdue books and materials
• Certified two additional personnel in mental health peer-support counseling in the Police Department
• Implemented a Facility Dog Program in the Police Department
• Provided training to Council Members, City Staff, and Downey citizens on the Emergency Operations Center, Disaster Service Worker roles, Emergency Shelter protocols, “Downey Alerts” system, various courses such as ICS 100, ICS 200, ICS 700, ICS 800, and CERT (with 110 citizens trained)
• The Fire Department implemented the Community Connect program to enhance emergency response by allowing residents and businesses to voluntarily share critical information with first responders, improving safety and efficiency during incidents
• Deployed Tactical EMS (TEMS) team with DPD SWAT on 10 assignments
• Launched Podcast Studio at the Downey City Library
• Expanded the Library’s Digital Resources
• Expanded the Downey One Card Program to all DUSD Schools
• Implemented the Library’s New Strategic Plan
• Developed additional adaptive programming with social and enrichment programs such as adaptive Zumba, adaptive line dance, and social meet-ups
• Established the Community Based Organization (CBO) Funding Program, annually allocating $100,000 towards non-profit groups supporting Downey
• Identified location for a Community Garden and began design
• Early-Childhood Professional Development Program launched at the Columbia Memorial Space Center
HIGHLIGHTS CONTINUED
• Replaced fleet of golf carts at Rio Hondo Golf Course
• Installation of security cameras at Apollo Park
• Coordinated Team-Up 2 Clean-Up Event
• 525 STEM Programs Delivered
• Launched AV and Robotics Lab Upgrade Projects at the Columbia Memorial Space Center
• Installed new roof at the McCaughan Gym
• Completed Painting and Security Improvements at Downtown Parking Structure
• Completed construction of 3rd St. Pavement Rehabilitation Project (Paramount Blvd. to Civic Center Dr.)
• Completed construction of Residential Streets Pavement Rehabilitation Area 4
• Completed construction FY 2023-2024 Annual Miscellaneous Concrete Repairs (Council District 1), ADA and Miscellaneous Improvements (Citywide), Lakewood Boulevard Parkway and Fire Station No. 1 Improvements
• Completed system-wide PFAS treatment system analysis
• Rehabilitated groundwater Well No. 24 and began rehabilitation of Wells No. 2 and 9
• Completed construction of Firestone Blvd. at Lakewood Blvd. Water System Improvements
• Flushing and cleaning of 70 miles of sewer main
• Provided 150,000 pounds of sand during storm season
• 500,000 square feet of graffiti removed
• Launched the Residential Streetlight Installation Program
• Continued the design for the 2nd building expansion at the Columbia Memorial Space Center
• Established 2nd dog park location at Golden Park and began design
*Outlined location for future 2nd dog park
BY THE NUMBERS
11 Miles of Streets or Pavement Rehabilitated
20,000 Gallons of Used Motor Oil Collected
843 Neighborhood Street Name Signs Installed or Repaired
76 Trees Planted
79
ADA Compliant Curb Ramps Constructed
70 Miles of Sewer Mains Cleaned
13,222 Acre-Feet of potable water delivered to City Customers
BY THE NUMBERS
56,532
Total Emergency Incidents (PD + Fire)
126,000 Barbara J. Riley Community and Senior Center Attendance
235 Neighborhood Watch Groups
65,321 Registered Voters
360 Keep Downey Beautiful Clean Up Volunteers
72,000
Columbia Memorial Space Center Engagements for all Workshops and classes
Quality of Life, Safety, & Infrastructure
Public Safety By the Numbers
Police Fire
• Answered over 127,000 calls for service
• 27 stolen vehicles recovered as a result of automated license plate reader program
• 299 City-wide narcotics usage and possession arrests
• 130 background investigations conducted
• 12,135 emergency incidents responded by Fire
• 602 fire prevention inspections conducted
• 6:35 Fire Department Average Emergency Response Time
• 22,730 Individuals enrolled in Downey Alerts
Public Engagement
Cultivate a trustworthy and participatory local government through equitable, transparent, and effective processes.
Public Engagement
Cultivate a trustworthy and participatory local government through equitable, transparent, and effective processes.
HIGHLIGHTS
• Coordinated with DUSD and delivered fire safety education to 17 elementary schools during Fire Prevention month
• City of STEM 2024 saw a record-breaking attendance of 30,000, marking the largest crowd in the event’s history
• Completed the grant-funded Shared Vision program distributing 1,000 backpack early learning kits developed by Library staff
• Purchased a new Christmas tree for the Civic Center, enhancing the annual tree lighting ceremony and festivities
• Developed D150 festivities to commemorate the 150th Anniversary of the City’s founding
• Approved annual funding for Downey Rose Float
• Initiated the Downey Discussion Process
• Established a Pets for Fur-st Responders Program
• Created a centralized PIO office and enhanced social media
• Increased the Library’s social media presence
• Extended Agreement with Center for Military Veteran Reintegration at the Downey City Library
1
3
1 Produced the 3rd Annual Beyond the Book Festival with nearly 4,000 attending
2 First-in-LA Blue Origin Event
3 Collaborated with the Carpenter’s 55th Anniversary planning committee to host commemorative events to honor The Carpenter’s legacy in Downey
4 Annual Employee Recognition during Public Service Week
2
4
6 2nd Annual Special Needs Resources and Awareness Fair
7 Touch a Truck
8 Student Government Day
5 10th Annual Dia de Los Muertos
9 Keep Downey Beautiful
10 Havana Nights
Social Media Audience Growth
