ANNUAL REPORT
2024 - 2025
Mayor and City Council
Hector Sosa
District 2
Mayor
Dorothy Pemberton
District 3
Mayor Pro Tem
Horacio Ortiz
District 1
Council Member
Claudia M. Frometa
District 4
Council Member
Mario Trujillo
District 5
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 2024-2025
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
Anthony Hildebrand Fire Chief
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
Marlon Ramirez Interim Assistant Finance Director
CITY MANAGER INTRODUCTION LETTER
Roger Bradley City Manager
Honorable Mayor, Members of the City Council, Downey Residents and Friends:
It is my pleasure to present to you the annual City Accomplishments Report for Fiscal Year 2024-2025. These accomplishments are a reflection of the dedication and hard work of the City Council, staff, and the community we proudly serve. They are exemplified by the Council’s five overarching priorities:
• Fiscal Responsibility
• Economic Vibrancy
• Efficiency & Adaptability
• Quality of Life, Safety & Infrastructure
• Public Engagement
The City’s commitment to fiscal responsibility is showcased in the development of its 13th consecutive balanced budget. The City once again received prestigious recognition for its efforts in prudent budgeting from the GFOA and CSMFO with the reception of Distinguished Budget Awards for the City’s Budget, and Excellence in Financial Reporting for the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report. Additionally, the City continues to maintain its AA bond ratings, reinforcing the City’s strong financial position and low credit risk. This is a true testament of the City’s dedication to being fiscally responsible and transparent.
In November 2024, Measure D, a 1/4 cent sales tax measure known as the “Downey Public Safety and Local Control Measure,” was approved by 67% of Downey voters. Measure D is expected to generate approximately $6 million per year of new revenue for public safety services. This includes the allocation of 17 new public safety positions with these funds. Additionally, the City was successful in securing over $41 million in grant funding across several City departments, helping enhance City services and programs.
The City continues to foster economic vibrancy through its business attraction, retention, and expansion efforts with a focus on high-quality restaurant, retail, and recreation businesses. Sprouts, Shake Shack, and Silverlake Ramen opened its doors during the year adding to the City’s economic footprint and sales tax revenue. Major plans are also underway at Stonewood Center for a new family entertainment establishment, Round One, which will enhance recreation and entertainment options in Downey. The Economic Development Office launched a Small Business Month campaign and hosted free technical assistance workshops to support entrepreneurs and small businesses in Downey.
City departments continued to streamline operations in order to provide efficient and timely service for residents and business. The Finance Department published a new Digital Budget Book, enhancing public accessibility, transparency, and a more user-friendly experience. Over 2,000 service requests were addressed through the Downey City App, and City staff launched a new more robust platform to enhance resident engagement and service accessibility. The Community Development Department streamlined plan check submissions through a fully digital process, ensuring faster service and turnaround times across all departments. The Fire Department upgraded their Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system, providing cutting-edge technology to the Fire Communication Center. We also introduced new technology that features real time bus tracking and a unique trip planner feature for our Downey LINK transit system.
We once again strived to improve the quality of life for all who live, work, and visit our City. A new inter-department homelessness solutions team known as STEP, which stands for Strategic Team for Engagement and Prevention, was established to help combat homelessness in our community. The Fire Department increased the size of the Tactical Paramedic Team by 30% to support Downey Police Tactical operations. The City also installed security cameras at the Barbara J. Riley Community and Senior Center, Apollo Park, and Golden Park, as well as increased security services in Downtown and all City parks. Departments enriched the community by hosting over 20 City events, some of
which included: Beyond the Book Festival, Día de los Muertos, Touch-a-Truck, Havana Nights, International Food and Music Festival, and the first ever, Men’s Wellness Resource Fair. Thousands of community members attended these events, helping boost a sense of civic pride and City identity. This past year, the Public Works Department completed 11 Capital Improvement Projects, investing $7.8 million into our infrastructure. In addition, we paved 25 miles of residential streets, closed 1,035 Code Enforcement violations, and cleaned 86 miles of sewer mains. Lastly, we engaged our residents by inviting them to be a part of various community celebrations such as the Space Shuttle Inspiration Relocation event, Double Decker Bus Tour, and the designation of the Official Science Festival of L.A. County, City of STEM.
I am incredibly proud of the work we have accomplished together. These successes underscore the City’s commitment to serving our community and would not be possible without the guidance and leadership of the City Council. My sincere thank you to all City staff for their essential contributions to these accomplishments and to the City Council for their unwavering support.
FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY
Maintain a Financially Stable Local Government
HIGHLIGHTS
• Developed the 13th consecutive balanced budget
• Received the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) and California State Municipal Finance Officers (CSMFO) awards for the City’s budget for the 12th consecutive year
• Received the GFOA Award for Excellence in Financial Reporting for the 25th consecutive year
• Budget book published as a new digital budget book for fiscal year 2024–25, enhancing public accessibility, transparency, and user experience
• Maintained AA bond rating, reinforcing the City’s strong financial position and low credit risk
• Updated the City’s cost allocation plan, ensuring equitable distribution of overhead costs to user departments and improving cost recovery
• Accelerated audit completion, achieving a 30-day reduction in the completion timeline for the FY 2023–24 annual audit through early preparation, improved documentation processes, and strengthened collaboration with external auditors
• Launched ERP modernization initiative, initiating the City’s ERP system replacement project, including a comprehensive needs assessment, cross-departmental stakeholder engagement, and development of a phased implementation roadmap to modernize financial operations
• Updated the City’s purchasing policy for public works projects by revising Chapter 5 to align with updated statutory requirements and best practices, improving transparency and operational clarity
• Completed the fiscal year 2023–24 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report and audit of financial statements, with no substantial findings
• Measure D educational materials distributed to inform the public, resulting in passage and establishment of a new revenue source for public safety services
• Secured more than $41 million in grants from agencies including the California Office of Traffic Safety, California Department of Justice, CalRecycle, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
81% Pension Plan Funding Level
68,318 Finance Counter Transactions
35% Operating Reserve $41M Grants Secured 100% Monthly Financial Status Reports Issued
75,120 Utility Bills Paid Online
140,134 Utility Bills Processed
FY 2025-2026 GENERAL FUND REVENUES (BY REVENUE SOURCE)
FY 2025-2026 GENERAL FUND EXPENDITURES (BY DEPARTMENT)
ECONOMIC VIBRANCY
Support community needs through a stable, vibrant and diverse local economy
HIGHLIGHTS
• Supported downtown improvements and vibrancy, including the 10-year Doodle-icious anniversary, installation of a new Rotary clock, completion of an alley improvement project, and purchase of meridian barriers
• Plans underway for Round1 Spo-Cha at Stonewood Center, introducing a new family entertainment establishment and enhancing recreation and entertainment options in Downey
• Executed the 7th amendment to the ground lease to advance plans for mixed-use development at the Back 20 site
• Sprouts opened in December 2024, bringing fresh and healthy food options and enhancing local grocery offerings
• Shake Shack opened in December 2024 at the corner of Firestone Blvd. and Downey Ave.
• Silverlake Ramen opened last summer on Firestone Blvd., offering diverse and flavorful dining options to residents and visitors
• Launched the City’s comprehensive General Plan 2045 update, including a technical working group, historic context statements, and community engagement
• Economic Development Office launched a Small Business Month campaign and hosted free technical assistance workshops to support entrepreneurs and small business owners in Downey
• Entered into an exclusive negotiating agreement with Lewis Land Developers LLC to advance development and improvements at the Rancho Los Amigos South Campus
• Launched Shop Local videos supporting local small businesses
543 Businesses Assisted 193 Planning Applications
463 City-Based Business Licenses Issued
1,351 Posts Across all Social Media Platforms
IN-N-OUT (9454 IMPERIAL HIGHWAY)
A new 3,800 sq. ft. In-N-Out restaurant will occupy the southwest corner of Imperial Highway and Bellflower Boulevard. Completion is anticipated in early 2027.
FORMER WALGREENS (9018 FIRESTONE BOULEVARD)
The former Walgreens will be subdivided into three tenant spaces and an exterior remodel will be completed. The new tenant spaces include two office suites and a restraint with outdoor dining.
EFFICIENCY AND ADAPTABILITY
Create an environment where new process and programs are encouraged and are used to improve internal and external services
HIGHLIGHTS
• New digital budget book published for fiscal year 2024–2025, enhancing public accessibility, transparency, and user experience
• Downey Forward 2030 Strategic Plan initiated in year one, including development of a webpage, brochure, and quarterly status updates
• Downey App addressed a total of 2,269 service requests since July 2024 and executed an agreement with GoGov to launch a new City app enhancing resident engagement and service accessibility
• Library app finalized for the Downey City Library
• Business day plan review streamlined plan check submissions through a fully digital process, ensuring faster service and turnaround times across all relevant departments
• Commenced integration of a geographic information system (GIS) into Code Enforcement tracking and reporting
• Downey Code Streamlining and Improvement Program initiated to evaluate the City’s land use–related municipal code and propose amendments to sections that lack clarity, are outdated, do not respond to local needs or current market trends, or do not comply with state law
• Fire Communication Center upgraded the computer-aided dispatch (CAD) system, providing cutting-edge technology to support operations
• Downey LINK introduced new technology featuring real-time bus tracking and a trip planner
• Conducted employee recruitment and selection processes establishing 110 eligibility and hiring lists to meet City staffing needs, resulting in the hiring of: - 52 full-time employees, including 8 police officers - 91 part-time employees
• Successfully managed the November 5, 2024, municipal election for City Council Districts Nos. 1, 3, and 5
Building Inspections Performed
815 Advanced Water Meters Installed 11,590
439 Public Works Permits Issued
1,035 Code Enforcement Violations Closed
900 Public Records Requests Processed
18,865 Counter Visits to CD and PW
15 HR Employee Training Sessions
6,996 Employment Applications Processed
927 Personnel Status Reports Processed
988 Public Records Requests Received and Processed
90 Subpoenas,Summons and Claims Received and Processed
4,642 Employee Information Technology Requests Received and Assisted
100% ADA/LAP Requests Responded
QUALITY OF LIFE, SAFETY, AND INFRASTRUCTURE
Foster a safe community through key investments and provide inclusive, diverse community programs and activities
Quality of Life, Safety, & Infrastructure
HIGHLIGHTS
• CMSC 2nd building expansion construction set to begin at the end of the 2nd quarter in FY 25–26
• Miles paved since July 2024
- 25 miles of residential streets
- 5 miles of arterial streets
- 1 mile of alleys
• Completed 11 CIP projects
- Total investment: $7.8 million
- BJR HVAC improvements, Downey Ave. alley beautification, alleys north of Foster Rd., Lakewood Blvd. traffic signal upgrades, and Civic Center painting project
• Launched year 1 of the Residential Streetlight Installation Program
• Homelessness Solutions Manager hired to administer and enhance homeless services and outreach efforts
• Established an interdepartmental Homeless Team (STEP, Strategic Team for Engagement and Prevention) to improve service delivery and responsiveness
• Enriching community life: Parks and Recreation hosted 16 events last year, engaging thousands and fostering community unity
• Pulse of Life launched this fiscal year, allowing victims to notify PD when they are in danger and enabling a more effective response
• Downey Community Connect platform launched, providing valuable information to enhance Fire Department response strategies and enable more efficient and appropriate emergency services
• Deployed FD personnel as part of Regional Task Force-2 in response to wildfires in Los Angeles County, demonstrating readiness and commitment to regional public safety efforts
• Authorized additional police officers and support staff; completed PD assessment adding 17 total positions utilizing Measure D
Quality of Life, Safety, & Infrastructure
• Special enforcement team completed 30 enforcement operations at ABC-licensed establishments
• Rehabilitation of 10 single-family residences completed, providing support to low- to moderateincome households
• Updated several of the City’s emergency plans, including the Hazard Mitigation Plan and Hazardous Materials Area Plan
• Increased the size of the Tactical Paramedic Team by 30%, supporting Downey Police tactical operations
• Installed security cameras at the Barbara J. Riley Community & Senior Center, Apollo Park, and Golden Park
• Increased RMI security services in Downtown Downey and city parks
1,167 Neighborhood Street Name Signs Installed or Repaired
86 Miles of Sewer Mains Cleaned
30 Miles of Streets or Pavement Rehabilitated
22,000 Gallons of Used Motor Oil Collected
120 Trees Planted
279
ADA Compliant Curb Ramps Constructed
13,748 Acre-Feet of Potable Water Delivered
510 Street Maintenance Cases Closed
669 Tree Maintenance
259
Code Enforcement Cases Closed
315 Homeless Encampments Cleaned
64 Traffic Signals Repaired
1,012 Graffiti Removed
153 Shopping Carts Removed
83 Street Lights Repaired
19 Street Sweeping
82 Parks Maintenance Requests
90
Sidewalk Damages Repaired
81 Water Issues Resolved
1,624 Discarded Furniture and Appliances
Quality of Life, Safety, & Infrastructure
PUBLIC SAFETY BY THE NUMBERS
Police Fire
• 115,000 dispatch calls, resulting in 51,545 calls for service
• 28 stolen vehicles recovered as a result of automated license plate reader program
• 514 City-wide narcotics usage and possession arrests
• 202 background investigations conducted
• 12,489 emergency incidents responded by Fire
• 498 fire prevention inspections conducted
• 7:12 Fire Department Average Emergency Response Time
• 27,284 Individuals enrolled in Downey Alert
BY THE NUMBERS
12,489
Total Emergency Incidents (PD + Fire)
615 Keep Downey Beautiful Clean Up Volunteers
254 Neighborhood Watch Groups
66,304 Registered Voters
6,232 Columbia Memorial Space Center Engagements
2,000,000+ Park Visitors
100,000+ Theatre, Golf Course and BJR Senior Center Visitors
90,000+ Transit Riders
4,484 Library Cards Issued
PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT
Cultivate a trustworthy and participatory local government through equitable, transparent, and effective processes
Public Engagement
HIGHLIGHTS
• Downey Library hosted the 4th Annual Beyond the Book event, bringing together more than 30 local and Los Angeles–wide organizations and vendors to celebrate the cultural spirit of Southeast Los Angeles and promote creativity and community engagement
• City of STEM declared the official Science Festival of Los Angeles County by the County Board of Supervisors
• Successfully coordinated the move of the Space Shuttle Inspiration to its temporary site for restoration, with a well-executed event covering the relocation
• PIO Office revamped the social media strategy to align with agency goals and community preferences, boosting engagement and follower growth
- Instagram 11.7% increase
- Facebook 5.6% increase
• Double-decker bus tour provided the community with a unique experience of Downey’s historical sites and a Christmas lights tour
• Keep Downey Beautiful hosted 10 KDB events promoting community pride and engagement
• Citizen academies conducted by the Downey Police Department included 10-week youth and citizen academies
• Safety education included the creation of traffic safety content and awareness videos disseminated through the Police Department’s social media platforms
• Collaborated with the Downey Unified School District to develop and launch a high school Fire Technology Program
• Hosted a Youth Vendor Fair providing a platform for local youth business entrepreneurs
• Adaptive recreation expanded programming to include contract classes, social gathering events, and workshops
• Library access expanded the Downey One Card Program to all DUSD schools (20,000+ students)
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3
2
4
1 Produced the 4th Annual Beyond the Book Festival with nearly 4,000 attending 6 3rd Annual Special Needs Resources and Awareness Fair
2 City of STEM
3 Rocket Fever
4 Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial Day
7 Touch a Truck
8 Men’s Wellness Resources Fair
9 International Food and Music Festival
5 11th Annual Dia de Los Muertos 10 Havana Nights
8 5 7 9 10 6
