LOS CERRITOS
Winner of Nineteen LA Press Club Awards from 2012-2021 Serving Cerritos and ten other surrounding communities • January 16, 2026 • Vol. 41, No. 4 • LOSCERRITOSNEWS.NET
LCCN Exclusive
Artesia’s City Council Approves $193,000 for 2026 Community Benefit Grants
La Palma Faces Significant Legal Exposure From Multi-Claimant Lawsuit
Several Artesia community organizations received thousands through the city’s Community Benefit Grant Program.
Council examines employment-related claims while approving study of water and sewer rates
By Brian Hews
By Brian Hews
The Artesia City Council, at its January 12 meeting, reviewed the results of its 2025 Community Benefit Grant Program and approved a new round of grants totaling $193,400 for the 2026 funding cycle. The grant program is funded through community benefit agreements with the city’s three licensed cannabis businesses and provides financial support to nonprofit organizations serving Artesia residents. During the meeting, representatives from organizations that received grants in 2025 delivered presentations detailing how their funding was used and the outcomes of their projects. Following
procurement, transparency, and conflicts of interest. By controlling the JPA’s operations, receiving bids, and managing public business through his own private infrastructure, Garza blurred — and in some cases erased — the legal separation required between a public agency and a private enterprise. That private control, combined with Garza’s renewal of his contract as the JPA’s executive director while simultaneously serving as an elected water official for Central Basin, placed his seat on the Central Basin Municipal Water District in legal peril. Part One documented how Garza used his personal Six Heron email, company cellphone, and Bellflower P.O. Box as
The La Palma City Council met in closed session this week to review a significant legal matter involving multiple claims filed against the city. During the closed session, the council reviewed an existing lawsuit involving claims of physical and emotional injury brought by more than two dozen individuals. While city officials did not disclose details, the number of claimants and the nature of the allegations strongly suggest the case involves current or former city employees, a type of litigation that often carries heightened financial risk for municipalities. Employment-related lawsuits can expose cities to substantial costs beyond any potential settlement or judgment, including extended legal defense, back pay, benefit adjustments, and administrative disruption. For a city with an annual general fund budget of roughly $11 million, even a single large employment case can consume a meaningful share of available resources. Cases involving multiple claimants are particularly concerning because liability can escalate quickly, with damages and legal fees compounding as claims proceed individually or collectively. Such litigation can also trigger closer scrutiny of internal management practices, workplace policies, and supervisory oversight. The council did not report any action following the closed session, which typically indicates the matter remains ongoing. While details were not disclosed due to attorney-client privilege, the
[ See DIRTY WATER, page 16 ]
[ See LAWSUIT, page 7 ]
[ See ARTESIA, page 12 ]
OC Bomberos Helps Aspiring Firefighters With Cost to Enter the Fire Service Founded by working firefighters, including one from Santa Fe Springs, OC Bomberos helps aspiring recruits overcome financial barriers to fire, EMT, and paramedic careers. By Brian Hews A nonprofit founded by Orange County firefighters — including one who trained while working in Santa Fe Springs — is helping aspiring firefighters, EMTs, and paramedics overcome the financial hurdles that often stand between them and careers in public safety. OC Bomberos, established in 2020, has awarded more than 40 scholarships to students enrolled in college fire academies and emergency medical training programs across Southern California. In 2025 alone, the organization distributed nine scholarships of $1,000 each to candidates pursuing careers in fire service and emergency response. The group was founded by Andrew Robles and Gabriel Flores, both Orange County Fire Authority firefighters. Flores, who worked in Santa Fe Springs while attending a fire academy part time in Inglewood before being hired as a firefighter, said the experience shaped his understanding of how financial pressure can derail otherwise capable candidates. Fire academy and paramedic [ See BOMBEROS, page 10 ]
An exclusive five-part LCCN investigation revealing how Central Basin Director Juan Garza turned the Cardroom Cities’ Joint Powers Authority into his own operation — and the conflicts and liabilities he engineered for himself in the process. Part 5
When the Board Was on Notice: How Inaction at Central Basin Created Personal Board Liability By Brian Hews Six weeks ago, Los Cerritos Community News launched High Stakes, Dirty Water, Red Flags, a multi-part investigative series revealing that for years Central Basin District Four Director Juan Garza quietly operated the California Cities for Self-Reliance Joint Powers Authority, a taxpayer-funded agency, through Bellflower-based Six Heron, his privately owned public-relations and government-relations firm. Garza’s decision to personally run a publicly funded joint powers authority through his private firm — which for years was not licensed with the City of Bellflower — raised immediate red flags under California law governing
Bay Area Taco Bell Closure Revives Story of the Chain’s Downey Origins Where It Began By Brian Hews
THE ORIGINAL Taco Bell building, first opened in Downey, was relocated to Irvine several years ago as part of an effort to preserve the fast-food chain’s historic first restaurant. Courtesy Livingmividaloca.com
As another vintage Taco Bell prepares to close in the Bay Area, the moment serves as a reminder that the fast-food chain’s story did not begin in Northern California, or even in the corporate campus where its earliest building now sits. It began in Downey, where the first Taco Bell opened in 1962 and quietly launched what would become one of the largest fast-food brands in the world. The closing drawing attention, as reported by the Mercury News, is the Taco Bell in Lafayette, one of the last remaining Mission-style Taco Bell buildings in the Bay Area. Opened in the [ See TACO BELL, page 7 ]
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Los Cerritos Community News • January 16, 2026
Bellflower Reviews Flower Street Mixed-Use Development Plan Artesia Moves Forward With Electric Vehicle Charging Expansion LCCN Staff Report
AN OVERHEAD view shows the three parcels along Flower Street in Bellflower that are included in the proposed Flower Street Specific Plan, which would allow mixed-use residential development on nearly two acres near Civic Center Drive.
By Brian Hews The City of Bellflower has opened a 30-day public review period for an environmental study tied to a proposed Flower Street Specific Plan that would allow new mixed-use residential development on three parcels totaling just under two acres. City planners have completed an environmental study evaluating potential impacts from future development at 9855, 9903, and 9915 Flower Street, near the intersection of Civic Center Drive and Flower Street. The plan covers approximately 1.99 acres and establishes development and design standards for mixed-use projects along the corridor. One of the three parcels, located at 9903 Flower Street, already has a proposed project: a 32-unit townhome development. The project would include garage parking for residents, shared open-space areas, and private deck spaces. Two design options are under consideration for the townhomes. The other two parcels, at 9855 and 9915 Flower Street, do not yet have specific development proposals. Under the plan, however, both sites would be eligible for future residential development at densities of up to 50 units per acre. Advancing the project would require several city approvals, including amendments to Bellflower’s General Plan and zoning map, adoption of the Flower Street Specific Plan, approval of a development agreement with the applicant, and a tentative tract map to allow condominium ownership at the
9903 Flower Street site. The applicant for the project is Bellflower 5 Investment, LLC. According to the city, the environmental review concluded there is no substantial evidence that the proposed plan or the 32-unit townhome project would result in significant environmental impacts, provided that identified mitigation measures are implemented. Based on those findings, the city determined that a full environmental impact report is not required under the California Environmental Quality Act. The public review period runs from January 9 through February 9, 2026. Residents may review the environmental documents online through the city’s planning department webpage or in person at Bellflower City Hall and the Bellflower branch of the Los Angeles County Library. A public hearing before the Bellflower City Council will be scheduled at a later date to consider adoption of the mitigated negative declaration and related project approvals. Once scheduled, the hearing will be held in the City Council Chambers at City Hall. Public comments must be submitted before the close of the review period and may be mailed or emailed to the city’s Planning Division, directed to Senior Planner James Atkins. City officials said the review process is intended to gather public input early, before any final decisions are made, and noted that future development proposals would still be subject to separate design review, traffic analysis, and City Council approval.
Lakewood’s Updated Parking Standards for Shopping Centers The Lakewood City Council voted 4–1 Tuesday night to introduce an ordinance that would update parking requirements for regional shopping centers and nearby neighborhood shopping centers. City staff said the changes are based on a study that found actual parking use at Lakewood Center Mall and surrounding commercial areas is significantly lower than what current Municipal Code requirements mandate. The proposed update would reduce required parking ratios for regional shopping centers, adjust standards for nearby neighborhood centers, and clarify how parking rules are applied going forward.
Artesia officials are moving ahead with an expansion of electric vehicle charging infrastructure as part of the city’s broader push to modernize facilities and prepare for continued growth in EV ownership. The project would add new charging stations at city-owned locations, building on existing infrastructure and positioning Artesia to meet increasing demand from residents, visitors, and city fleet users. City staff described the expansion as both a service improvement and a long-term investment tied to state and regional transportation trends. According to the proposal, the new chargers would support multiple vehicle types and charging speeds, allowing for shorter charging times and greater throughput at each site. Locations were selected based on accessibility, proximity to commercial or civic activity, and electrical capacity, with the goal of maximizing public use while minimizing construction impacts. City officials noted that electric vehicle adoption continues to rise across Los Angeles County, driven in part by state emissions targets and incentive programs. Expanding local charging availability is intended to reduce “range anxiety” for drivers while keeping Artesia competitive with neighboring cities that have already rolled out similar infrastructure. The project is expected to be partially offset by grant funding and utility incentives, reducing the direct cost to the city. Ongoing operational costs would include electricity usage, routine maintenance, and network management fees, which staff said have been factored into future budget planning. In addition to public use, the new charging stations could support a gradual transition of city vehicles to electric models, potentially lowering fuel and maintenance costs over time. Officials said the expansion aligns with long-term sustainability goals without committing the city to immediate fleet replacements. If approved, installation would begin later this year, with chargers coming online in phases as electrical work and site preparation are completed. City staff emphasized that the project does not require changes to parking enforcement or new usage fees at this stage, though future adjustments could be considered based on demand. The item is scheduled for council consideration as part of a broader agenda addressing infrastructure upgrades and capital improvements across the city. Officials emphasized that expanding charging access is increasingly viewed as basic infrastructure, similar to public Wi-Fi or broadband, and said early investment allows the city to scale service over time rather than react to demand later under tighter budget and site constraints.
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Los Cerritos Community News • Friday, January 16, 2026
Northgate González Market Opens New Store in La Mirada
Cerritos Officials Detail Aging Water System at Economic Development Meeting LCCN Staff Report
WELCOME: La Mirada Mayor Ed Eng and La Mirada City Council members with the González family during a ceremony Tuesday night marking the opening of the new Northgate González Market in La Mirada.
LCCN Staff Report Northgate González Market opened a new supermarket in La Mirada on Jan. 14, expanding the company’s presence in Southeast Los Angeles County and returning to a city tied to the González family’s early years in the United States. The new store is located at 12721 Valley View Blvd., on the corner of Valley View and Imperial Highway, and spans approximately 29,800 square feet. According to the company, the location employs 244 associates and offers a full-service grocery format focused on Mexican foods and prepared items. “For our family, La Mirada will always hold a special place,” said Northgate Market Co-President Oscar González, noting that the city was the family’s first home after immigrating to the U.S. Inside the store, a custom mural titled “From Our Roots to Home” was painted by La Mirada artist Alysia Ponce. The mural depicts the González family’s journey from Jalostotitlán, Jalisco, to La Mirada and reflects themes of immigration, family, and work. The opening included a reception
Applications Open for Cerritos Senior Services Commission Members Cerritos residents are invited to submit their application for consideration to serve on the Cerritos Senior Services Commission. The new commission was approved by the Cerritos City Council at its meeting on January 12. Members of the Senior Services Commission are appointed by the Cerritos City Council and serve as an advisory body to the City Council. This includes researching and recommending policies, programs, and services related to senior, accessibility, and disability needs. Eligibility includes being a Cerritos resident who is 50 years of age or older at the time of the appointment. Eligible, appointed individuals will serve a term through April 30, 2027. To be considered for appointment to a City of Cerritos Advisory Board, an application must be submitted online at cerritos.gov/boards or in person to the Office of the City Clerk. Currently, applications are only being accepted for the Senior Services Commission and are open until all positions are filled. Learn more about Cerritos advisory board functions, eligibility requirements, and
attended by local officials. The company announced a donation of more than $20,000 to local schools, including Los Altos Elementary School, Foster Road Elementary School, Gardenhill Elementary School, Hutchinson Middle School, La Mirada High School, and St. Paul of the Cross School. “La Mirada is proud to welcome Northgate Market and the González family’s investment in our city,” said John Lewis, who represents District 1. Lewis said the store will provide jobs, support local schools, and expand grocery options for residents. The La Mirada location includes several in-store departments common to Northgate González Market stores, including a tortillería producing tortillas and masa daily, a bakery offering pan dulce and cakes, a full-service meat counter, and a prepared foods kitchen with ready-to-eat Mexican dishes such as empanadas, chile rellenos, guisados, rice, and beans. Northgate González Market operates multiple locations across California and continues to expand within communities with large Latino populations. complete the application at cerritos. gov/boards. For additional information, contact the Office of the City Clerk at (562) 916-1248. Members appointed to the Senior Services Commission will be required to participate in the 2026 L.E.A.D. Cerritos program. Visit cerritos.gov/lead for more information about this program and program schedule.
The Cerritos Economic Development Commission met Tuesday, with the first agenda item focused on an informational report from city staff detailing the condition of the city’s aging water and sewer infrastructure and the financial impacts of a recent emergency well failure. City officials reported that much of Cerritos’ water and sewer system was built in the 1970s and is now nearing the end of its service life, increasing the risk of system failures and costly emergency repairs. Staff warned that continued deterioration could affect the city’s ability to reliably deliver safe drinking water and maintain sewer service. The city’s water system relies on groundwater wells, reservoirs, booster stations, and emergency interconnections with neighboring systems. Under normal conditions, Cerritos is able to meet its full water demand using local groundwater, which is significantly less expensive than imported water. However, one of the city’s primary wells, known as the C-4 well, was taken out of service in October after sand and gravel intrusion threatened damage to pumping equipment. Since the well failure, the city has been forced to supplement its supply with imported water, driving up operating costs. Staff reported that imported water costs more than three
times as much as locally pumped groundwater, resulting in a substantial increase in water supply expenses while the well remains offline. City Council previously approved emergency repairs to the C-4 well, with work expected to begin in late January or early February. A firm construction start date had not yet been finalized as contractors coordinated specialized equipment and personnel. Until the repairs are completed, the city will continue purchasing imported water as needed to meet demand. The report also outlined broader infrastructure challenges beyond the failed well. City staff identified tens of millions of dollars in critical water system needs, including new wells, treatment systems, valve replacements, and aging pipeline rehabilitation. Sewer system needs include pump station upgrades, sewer main replacements, and citywide inspection programs to prevent failures. Officials noted that emergency breakdowns are becoming more likely as infrastructure continues to age, increasing long-term costs and operational risks. While no new budget actions were requested during the commission meeting, staff emphasized that continued reliance on imported water would keep expenses elevated and strain the city’s utility funds. City officials said public outreach efforts are underway to inform residents about the condition of the water and sewer systems and the challenges ahead, signaling that infrastructure funding and reliability will remain a significant issue for Cerritos in the months and years to come.
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Los Cerritos Community News • January 16, 2026
Elected Officials Attend Annual Sacramento Legislative Tour
Cerritos Fil-Am Sportsfest Brings Sports, Culture, and Community to Don Knabe Park An all-day January 31 sportsfest in Cerritos highlights community athletics while building awareness ahead of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. By Ellen Rodriguez-Swing, Correspondent
THE SACRAMENTO LEGISLATIVE TOUR is an annual advocacy visit that brings city officials and local government leaders to the state Capitol at the start of the legislative year, when policy priorities are being set. During the multi-day tour, participants meet directly with state senators, assemblymembers, and administration officials to discuss issues affecting cities, including public safety, housing, transportation, infrastructure funding, and local control. Shown here are elected officials from Cerritos meeting with Asm. Sharon Quirk-Silva during the visit. From (l-r) Councilpersons Jennifer Hong, Sophia Tse, Quirk-Silva, Mayor Frank Yokoyama and Councilperson Mark Pulido.
Cerritos’ Festival of Friendship Returns February 7 LCCN Staff Report Cerritos will celebrate its cultural diversity with the return of the annual Festival of Friendship on Saturday, February 7, beginning at 11 a.m. at the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts, located at 18000 Park Plaza Drive. Now in its 27th year, the Festival of Friendship will feature a full program of cultural performances presented in the center’s main theater. Local community groups will perform traditional music and dance, offering audiences an educational and engaging look at the many cultures represented in Cerritos. City officials said the event reflects Cerritos’ long-standing commitment to celebrating inclusion and cultural exchange. The festival is free and open to the public, with general admission seating available. Performances will take place throughout the event in the performing arts center’s main theater. The City of Cerritos acknowledged the Port of Long Beach for sponsoring
this year’s Festival of Friendship and supporting local cultural organizations. Performers scheduled to appear include the JC Culture Foundation, Filipino Seniors of Cerritos Association, Global Culture Education Foundation, Shakti Dance Company, Adaptive Recreation – Dance & Movement, Formosa Seniors Association, Inc., Hanabi Taiko, Da’Hawaii Seniors Club, Ray Shine Foundation, The Original Happy Seniors of Cerritos, Royal Scottish Country Dancing Society – Orange County, Cerritos Ivy Club, Angklung Group of Cerritos, Cerritos ChineseAmerican Senior Citizens Association, Na Ipo Hula, Chinese Culture Association of Southern California, and Paso De Oro Dance Company. Special commemorative gifts will be available to attendees while supplies last. Additional information about the Festival of Friendship is available by contacting the Recreation Services Division at (562) 916-1254.
Report Potholes in Cerritos Cerritos is asking residents to help spot and report potholes as winter weather continues to take a toll on local streets. Recent rainstorms and changing conditions can cause pavement to deteriorate, sometimes turning smooth roads into obstacle courses overnight. City crews use a temporary cold mix to patch potholes immediately after storms to keep streets safe and passable. Permanent repairs are scheduled once the rainy season ends and funding becomes available. Residents are encouraged to report potholes and other street issues as soon as they are spotted—preferably before they claim a tire, hubcap, or unsuspecting morning coffee. Go to https://www.cerritos.gov/ home-property/report-an-issue/, use the mobile app, or call the Public Works Department at (562) 916-1220.
CERRITOS — The Cerritos FilAm Sportsfest 2026 will bring athletes, families, and community members together for an all-day celebration on January 31 at Don Knabe Community Regional Park. Organized by the Filipino American Chamber of Commerce of Cerritos in partnership with Our Community Foundation, the event is designed to highlight Filipino culture, grassroots sports, and community wellness while building local excitement around the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. Support for the sportsfest includes the office of Janice Hahn and the City of Cerritos, reflecting a shared focus on civic engagement, cultural pride, and regional participation in upcoming international events. Organizers say the event draws inspiration from bayanihan, the Filipino tradition emphasizing cooperation and shared responsibility. The sportsfest is intended to be family-friendly and welcoming to participants and spectators of all ages and backgrounds. Community leaders noted that events like this help generate awareness and enthusiasm ahead of the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games, which are expected to bring economic and cultural activity throughout Southern California. “Community events like the Cerritos Fil-Am Sportsfest help build unity and positive momentum,” said Cerritos Mayor Pro Tem Lynda Johnson. She added that celebrations promoting culture, healthy living, and regional pride help connect local residents to the broader excitement surrounding the upcoming Olympics. The sportsfest will feature competitions in basketball, pickleball, table tennis, and chess, with divisions open to a range of ages and skill levels. Food and beverage vendors and live entertainment will be available throughout the day, creating a festival atmosphere in the park. Admission is free and open to the public. Athletes must register in advance to compete, and spectators are encouraged to register to qualify for raffle prizes and giveaways. Registration is open for athletes, vendors, volunteers, and attendees, with awards and prizes planned across all sports categories. Event organizers emphasized that the Cerritos Fil-Am Sportsfest 2026 is independently organized and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the LA28 Organizing Committee. Any references to the Olympics are intended solely for descriptive and inspirational purposes. Additional information about the event, sponsorship opportunities, or volunteer participation is available by contacting Demeven Quirino at 562895-6144 or Edward Lago at 602-5457797.
Shouldn’t We Demand Transparency and Accountability?
My heart breaks for Renee Nicole Good’s family and the tragic, needless loss of an innocent life. Killed by an unhinged ICE agent, her death was preventable and is a travesty of justice. Now Americans are left to contemplate why such acts of needless violence are happening in cities across the nation. Nicole could have been anyone of us. A law-abiding 37-year-old mother of three, a stay-at-home mom, a college graduate, an avid writer, and a poet—her life could not have been more admirable. She is remembered by family and friends as loving, compassionate, and nonviolent, but by the powers that be, now defamed- she is labeled a domestic terrorist. Collectively we must demand transparency and accountability. In my view recent footage does not prove Renee was aligned with domestic terrorism. In fact, witnesses have posted footage from multiple angles of the violent ICE enforcement incident, videos that have traumatized Minneapolis and paralyzed the nation. A picture is worth a thousand words, and our eyes do not lie. Video footage clearly shows Renee surrounded by ICE agents as they bark commands for her to move her vehicle. She attempts to lighten the intensity of the situation by saying “That’s fine, dude. I’m not mad at you.” She then carefully maneuvers her SUV to comply with directives to move her vehicle while the ICE agent, in a split second response, blocks her vehicle, then charges toward the driver’s side, and at close range fires three shots through the window. A horrified bystander screams, “You shot her in the face!” You shot her in the face …!” The SUV, still in motion, crashes into parked cars before stopping. Seemingly without remorse, the ICE agent peers into her vehicle, stops an individual (identifying himself as a physician) from intervening and administering first aid, then he calls for an ambulance before fleeing the scene along with the other ICE agents, leaving Renee for dead. Within minutes, before an in-depth investigation, Renee is unjustly labeled a domestic terrorist. Another innocent victim, needlessly killed in 2025 in a similar vein, is 38 year old Silverio Villegas Gonzalez. While racially profiled, Silverio was ambushed by ICE agents, threatened, then fatally shot. Silverio had dropped off his children at school and daycare before confronted and murdered by ICE agents. They claimed Silverio ignored orders and tried to flee, using his vehicle as a weapon. This father, a hard-working Mexican immigrant, a cook, and long-time Chicago resident, was simply heading to his job. He posed no threat to ICE nor to the community. On the heels of Renee’s death, in Portland Oregon, Luis David Nico Moncada and Yorleny Betzabeth Zambrano-Contreras were shot by a border patrol agent, who claimed he shot them in self-defense for using their vehicle as a weapon. The incident is under investigation. However, since no witnesses were present, it is nearly impossible to verify facts. Do we see a familiar pattern here? This pattern emphasizes the vital role trained Rapid Response Advocacy groups play in verifying, documenting, and reporting eyewitness accounts of questionable and unlawful enforcement activity. These are concerned citizens documenting factual evidence- not troublemakers as some complicit Federal and local leaders would have us believe. They are not Antifa nor Marxists. Recently, PBS News reported DHS has more than doubled its ICE manpower from 10,000 to 22,000. Many people view this as a needless invasion upon Blue cities. Given the absolute immunity for ICE and border patrol agents, their presence poses a threat to our communities. Citizens and noncitizens alike are justified in using whistles-not guns- to chase out ICE. Their approach is
non-violent. While this administration attempts to justify its means—using deadly force— Renee is being characterized by Christi Noem, President Trump, and J.D. Vance as a domestic terrorist. If we believe in truth, then we must not turn a blind eye to the facts. We must reject the endless false narratives. Renee and Silverio -along with others- were killed in cold blood. Their lives were upended by ICE agents during incidents, deeply rooted in the cruel, inhumane immigration policies of the current administration. Is this the America we trust? Is this the strength we condone? Is ICE enforcement keeping us any safer? Does the active presence of masked, unidentified agents in unmarked vehicles within our communities ease our mind? Do city leaders acknowledge the looming threat ICE poses in our community, robbing residents of their sense of safety and peace? Do community leaders stand with residents demanding transparency and accountability? Or are they complicit? Ask Downey residents who witnessed aggressive ICE tactics this past weekend. Even if local leaders believe their cities are not at risk, that they have no legal recourse under federal law, complicity and silence are never the answer. Their silence—and ours—absolves ICE agents of lawlessness, transparency and accountability. With limitless ICE funds now available for heightened enforcement efforts, it is only a matter of time before more innocent lives are claimed. Meanwhile, local and national GOP candidates attempt to characterize legitimate protesters and Rapid Response groups as agitators and Communists. If we can’t raise our voices against this brutal regime, then we are also the complicit ones. Trump’s dictatorship is fully entrenched here on American soil, and the daily train wrecks prove it. There is nothing normal about his heinous actions. So what can we do to stop the craziness? Resist the lies and false narratives dehumanizing victims like Renee Nicole Good and Silverio Villegas Gonzalez. Resist the political manipulation: the false narratives that numb our empathy, the endless lies that justify needless violence, fear tactics that silence our collective voices. If enough is enough, then fight for justice and humanity—with Renee and Silverio— not with unlawful ICE agents, terrorizing innocent people across our nation. If this resonates in any way, then know the pattern is calculated: “Dehumanize and vilify the victim, lie relentlessly, never admit guilt, convince the public that ICE is targeting criminals and capturing the “worst of the worst”, justify all means at any cost, and display cruelty as strength, and scare them into silence and conformity.” I reject this administration’s rhetoric of vilifying and blaming the victims. I feel outraged by the cruelty and trauma inflicted upon innocent citizens, lawabiding immigrants, and the destructive breakdown of American society under this current regime. The tide of lawlessness and cruelty may seem unstoppable—at times even hopeless—but it can be stemmed through victory in the midterm election and Trump’s imminent impeachment. His enablers may employ fear tactics, both domestically and globally, but it is our collective determination and voting power that will turn the tide, eventually rebuild our democracy, and reclaim our humanity. Let us stand up for Renee, Silverioand all other victims- who have died unjustly under this administration’s brutal immigration policies. Let us fight for peace, freedom, and justice, regardless of political affiliation. This moral imperative rest with us- we, the people. In Solidarity, Sandy Mercado
Los Cerritos Community News • Friday, January 16, 2026
From the Mayor’s Desk: January 16, 2026
By Cerritos Mayor Frank Aurelio Yokoyama
The City of Cerritos prides itself in offering quality services for all residents and staying vigilant of the shifting needs of our community. This week, the Cerritos City Council was pleased to move forward on a plan to elevate programming for residents age 50 and above. By establishing a Senior Services Commission, we’ve created more opportunities to hear from and collaborate with residents on how we serve our City’s senior community. The commission will act in an advisory capacity to the City Council on the needs of senior services programming. This includes day excursions, special events, and seniorrelated resources. They will also be responsible for providing guidance on accessibility matters, serving residents with disabilities. Applications are now open for the Senior Services Commission. Five applicants will be appointed to membership positions, with terms lasting two years. Eligibility includes being a Cerritos resident who is 50 years of age or older at the time of the appointment. Meetings of the Senior Services Commission will take place on the third Tuesday of odd-
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numbered months at 7 p.m. in the City Council Chamber. To be considered for appointment, an application must be submitted online at cerritos.gov/ boards or in person to the Office of the City Clerk. The City Council also approved a City Celebrations Committee, whose members will provide guidance to staff on several events throughout the year. This includes Festival of Friendship, Spring Fling, Let Freedom Ring Celebration, Halloween Festival, Water Lantern Festival, UbeFest, and Santa’s Sleigh Day at the CCPA. Members of the now dissolved Let Freedom Ring Committee will continue the remainder of their terms on the City Celebrations Committee. These groups are examples of how the City and the Cerritos City Council are working to identify the needs of our community in alignment with Strategic Plan Goal #8: Continued Excellence in Community Recreation and Community Programming. Learn more about Cerritos advisory board functions, eligibility requirements, and complete an application for the Senior Services Commission at cerritos.gov/boards. For additional information, you may also contact the Office of the City Clerk at (562) 916-1248. My City Council colleagues and I invite you to get involved in City of Cerritos advisory boards, by attending meetings, and through continued advocacy for your fellow residents.
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Los Cerritos Community News • January 16, 2026
Norwalk Starbucks Barista Fired After Pig Drawing on Deputy’s Coffee Cup LCCN Staff Report The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department said it was “extremely offensive, inappropriate, and unacceptable” after a deputy was served a cup of coffee at a Norwalk Starbucks bearing a hand-drawn image of a pig, an image the department said is commonly used to demean law enforcement.
and finish the day. On a private Instagram account, the deputy wrote that the drawing left him feeling “discouraging and disrespectful,” adding, “All I wanted was caffeine, but instead I left feeling uneasy.” Sheriff’s officials said the deputy immediately reported the incident to the store manager, who told him the matter would be investigated. After learning of the situation, Sheriff Robert Luna contacted Starbucks’ corporate security division to formally raise concerns and press for accountability. Luna also personally spoke with the deputy to check on his well-being and to
PIG DOODLE drawn on a Starbucks coffee cup served to a Los Angeles County Sheriff’s deputy in Norwalk on Jan. 9 sparked backlash from the Sheriff’s Department and led to the barista’s termination, with officials calling the image offensive and demeaning to law enforcement.
The incident occurred Jan. 9 at a Starbucks location in Norwalk. According to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, the deputy was in the middle of a 16-hour shift and stopped for coffee simply to stay alert
emphasize that disrespectful treatment of department personnel would not be tolerated. A spokesperson for Starbucks confirmed that the barista involved has since been terminated. Initially,
Find our FREE paper at these convenient locations: AAA 18642 S. Gridley ABC Adult School 12254 Cuesta Dr. ABC District Office 17215 Studebaker Road Suite 290 Cerritos, CA 90703 ABCFT 19444 Norwalk Blvd. Aikan Sushi 12155 South St All Cerritos Parks IHOP Towne Center 12741 Towne Ctr. Dr. Artesia City Hall 18747 Clarkdale Ave. Artesia Library 18801 Elaine Avenue Artesia Cemetery 11142 Artesia Blvd. Artesia Christian Home 11614 183rd St, Artesia Artesia Senior Apts 10427 Artesia, Bellflower Ave. 3 12612 South Street Bellflower City Hall Bellflower Terrace Apts. 9920 Flora Vista Belmont Place Apts. 9830 Belmont St., Bellflower Ramona Senior Ctr. 9843 Ramona St. Bellflower Bellflower Friendship Manor 9550 Oak St. Cassidy’s Cafe 15010 La Mirada Blvd Cerritos Chamber 13259 South St. Cerritos College Cerritos City Hall Sheriff’s/Community Center Cerritos Library 18125 Bloomfield Ave Cerritos Park East 13234 E 166th St. Cerritos Medical Center 11911 Artesia Blvd.
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Cerritos Senior Center 12340 South St. Cevitas Coffee 14218 Rosecrans Ave CTA Travel 12750 Center Ct Dr S. ContunEM 6430 South St Don Knabe Park At the Tennis Center Foggia Deli 5522 Del Amo Blvd. Grocery Outlet 15745 Imperial Hwy, Grove at Cerritos 11000 New Falcon Way Goodyear Auto 19404 Norwalk Blvd. Gardens Casino 11871 E Carson St. Hawaiian Gardens City Hall, Rec. Center, Library 21815 Pioneer Heritage Park 18600 Bloomfield Holy Family Church, Artesia 18708 Clarkdale IHop La Mirada 15140 La Mirada Blvd Imperial Healthcare Center 11926 La Mirada Blvd Kindred Hospital 14900 Imperial Hwy. Kristens Beauty Salon 13952 Valley View Ave La Casa de Concinera 15711 Imperial Hwy, UCI/Lakewood Regional 3700 South St. La Mirada City Hall, Library, Resource Center, Sheriff’s Splash! La Mirada 13700 La Mirada Blvd LA Nails 13239 South St La Palma City Hall 7822 Walker St
La Palma Community Center 7822 Walker St La Palma Intercomm. Hospital Liberty Park 9211 Studebaker Rd, Long Beach Memorial 2801 Atlantic Ave. Massage & Stone 13247 South St. Medipost 13299 E South Street Norwalk Arts/Sports 13000 Clarkdale Norwalk SR. Center 14040 San Antonio Dr. Norwalk City Hall 12700 Norwalk Blvd, Olive Lawn 13926 La Mirada Blvd 11832 E Carson St Pico Rivera Chamber 5016 Passons Blvd Pico River City Hall and Sheriffs 6615 Passons Blvd Rosewoods 10769 South St. State Farm 12616 South St LAFD Station 30 19030 Pioneer Blvd Santa Fe Springs City Hall Silverlake Ramen 11103 183rd St Sophia Hair Salon 13243 South St. Tacos San Pedro 11832 E Carson St Tour Le Jour 13359 South St VI Pharmacy 12610 South Street WRD 4040 Paramount
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Starbucks said the drawing appeared to be based on a popular internet meme and was not intended to reference law enforcement, but acknowledged it should never have been placed on a customer’s cup. “This was unacceptable,” Starbucks spokesperson Jaci Anderson said in a statement. “We have a deep appreciation and respect for law enforcement, who are dedicated to keeping our communities safe. Every customer should always be made to feel welcome in our stores.” Anderson added that the doodle was reportedly drawn on the cup before the deputy entered the store, but that distinction did not change the outcome. The employee is no longer with the company. Reaction online was sharply divided. Comments on the Sheriff’s Department’s Facebook page ranged from strong support for the deputy and calls for the employee’s firing to critics who described the department’s response as overly sensitive and embarrassing. The incident echoes a similar case in 2019, when a Starbucks barista in Oklahoma was fired after writing the word “PIG” on the coffee cup of an onduty police officer.
Crime Report by CIty
Complied by LCCN January 5–12, 2026 Violent incidents dated for clarity
Artesia
Pioneer Blvd remains the city’s most dependable contributor to the weekly crime blotter. 01-12 Assault 16900 blk Pioneer Blvd 01-11 Burglary 11900 blk Artesia Blvd 01-10 Burglary 11900 blk Artesia Blvd 01-10 Assault 11700 blk 166th St 01-10 Robbery Clarkdale Ave & Frampton Ct 01-09 Burglary 12100 blk South St Grand Theft Auto 17700 blk Pioneer 01-08 Assault 18500 blk Corby Ave
Cerritos
Towne Center Dr continues to lead the league in retail-related crime. Theft 11200 blk 183rd St Grand Theft Auto 18600 blk Gridley Rd Theft 12800 blk Towne Center Dr Theft 12600 blk Artesia Blvd Grand Theft Auto 12700 blk Towne Center Dr 01-09 Burglary 13700 blk Palm St Grand Theft 12700 blk Towne Center Dr Theft 20000 blk Cabrillo Ln Theft 12700 blk Towne Center Dr Theft 300 blk Los Cerritos Center Theft 12800 blk Towne Center Dr Grand Theft 11100 blk 183rd St Theft 16600 blk Gerritt Ave Grand Theft 300 blk Los Cerritos Center
01-07 Robbery 11400 blk South St Theft 12700 blk Towne Center Dr Grand Theft 12800 blk Towne Center Dr Grand Theft Auto 12500 blk Felson St Grand Theft 13800 blk Cerritos Corporate Dr
Hawaiian Gardens
A small footprint with a wide variety of police calls. 01-11 Robbery 12200 blk Carson St Theft 22300 blk Arline Ave Grand Theft Auto 12400 blk 223rd St Grand Theft Auto 21700 blk Elaine Ave
Lakewood
If it had wheels, it caught someone’s attention. Grand Theft 21400 blk Pioneer Blvd Grand Theft Auto 12700 blk Centralia St Grand Theft Auto 12300 blk 207th St Grand Theft Auto 21000 blk Longworth Grand Theft Auto 21600 blk Nectar Ave
La Mirada
Unlocked vehicles and retail corridors continue to do the heavy lifting. Theft 15700 blk Valley View Ave Theft 14000 blk Gladeside Dr Grand Theft 15100 blk Elmbrook Dr Theft 15100 blk Rosecrans Ave Grand Theft 12300 blk La Mirada Blvd Theft 15700 blk Valley View Ave Grand Theft 14000 blk El Espejo Rd
Norwalk
Major corridors again saw the most serious activity. 01-11 Assault 16400 blk Pioneer Blvd 01-08 Burglary 16400 blk Pioneer Blvd 01-06 Assault Bloomfield Ave & Rosecrans Ave Grand Theft Auto 14300 blk Cabrillo
Pico Rivera
Auto-related crime continues to dominate the weekly log. Theft 8800 blk Whittier Blvd 01-11 Robbery 4300 blk Rosemead Blvd 01-10 Burglary 6200 blk Rimbank Ave Grand Theft Auto 8500 blk Washington Blvd 01-09 Robbery 8800 blk Whittier Blvd Theft 8800 blk Washington Blvd Grand Theft 6200 blk Maris Ave Grand Theft 4800 blk Church St Theft 8600 blk Washington Blvd 01-08 Robbery 8600 blk Whittier Blvd Theft 8600 blk Washington Blvd Grand Theft 4300 blk Acacia Ave Grand Theft 8700 blk Washington Blvd Grand Theft 6300 blk Lindell Ave
Santa Fe Springs
A short list, but concentrated enough to matter. Drug 13200 blk Alondra Blvd 01-06 Burglary 8000 blk Norwalk Blvd
Source: Crimemapper.com
1 Girl, 2 Adults Found Shot Dead at Lakewood Home LAKEWOOD, Calif. (KABC) -- A girl and two adults were found dead after a triple shooting Thursday morning at home in Lakewood, authorities said. The shooting occurred shortly before 8 a.m. in a residential neighborhood near the intersection of Lorelei Avenue and South Street, a spokesperson for the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department said. Emergency responders arrived at the single-story house and paramedics entered the residence at 8:07 a.m., clearing the scene less than an hour later, according to the Los Angeles County Fire Department. The Sheriff’s Department later confirmed that three people -- a woman, a man and a girl -- were pronounced
dead at the location. Their identities were not immediately released. The circumstances that led to the shooting were unknown. Authorities did not release any information about a possible suspect in the case. Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Homicide Bureau at (323) 890-5500. If you prefer to provide information anonymously, you may call “Crime Stoppers” by dialing (800) 222-TIPS (8477), use your smartphone by downloading the “P3 Tips” Mobile APP on Google play or the Apple App Store or by using the website lacrimestoppers. org.
Los Cerritos Community News • Friday, January 16, 2026
Mummies of the World Exhibition Returns to California Science Center for Final Stop
NES-HOR, an ancient Egyptian priest, is shown preserved as part of Mummies of the World: The Exhibition, where modern science is used to study mummification and daily life in ancient civilizations.
LCCN Staff Report Mummies of the World: The Exhibition is returning to Los Angeles for the final stop of its international tour, opening Saturday, February 7, 2026, at the California Science Center. The exhibition features more than 30 naturally and intentionally preserved human and animal mummies from South America, Europe, and ancient Egypt. Organizers say the Los Angeles engagement will include several specimens never before shown locally and rarely toured, offering visitors a final opportunity to see them before they are returned to museums and institutions around the world. Through the use of modern scientific tools, including full-body CT scans and interactive displays, the exhibition explores how mummification occurs in diverse environments such as deserts, glaciers, and underground crypts. Visitors will learn how preserved remains provide insight into health, diet, burial practices, and daily life in ancient cultures. Highlights include two mummified
ancient Egyptian priests, 18th-century European medical mummies, a shrunken sloth head, and two ancient Peruvian bundle mummies making their West Coast debut after decades off tour. The exhibition also includes MUMAB, a modern recreation of ancient Egyptianstyle mummification created for scientific study, along with mummies discovered in Hungarian church crypts and a 17thcentury German nobleman buried in military attire. The exhibition will be on view in the Weingart Foundation Special Exhibits Gallery on the third floor of the Science Center, with timed-entry tickets required. Visitors can also enhance their experience by attending the accompanying IMAX documentary *Mummies 3D: Secrets of the Pharaohs*, which examines the history and science of mummification through a forensic lens. Tickets go on sale Wednesday, January 14, 2026. While general admission to the California Science Center remains free, separate tickets are required for the exhibition and IMAX film.
TACO BELL from page 1 late 1960s, the restaurant reflects an era when Taco Bell locations were designed to echo California’s Spanish and Mission architectural roots, with arched features and tiled roofs that stood apart from the boxy fast-food buildings that followed decades later. Its final day is scheduled for mid-January, marking the end of a structure that has outlasted countless redesigns and corporate rebrands. While the Bay Area says goodbye, the chain’s original building survives in a far different way. The first Taco Bell, known internally as Numero Uno, was built in Downey and operated for decades before closing. Rather than allowing it to be demolished, the company chose to physically move the entire structure south along Interstate 5 to its corporate headquarters in Irvine. Since 2015, the small, historic building has sat behind headquarters in an unassuming parking lot, locked and unused, preserved more as a symbol than a functioning restaurant. The contrast is striking. The Lafayette restaurant, still serving customers until its final day, represents a living piece of Taco Bell history. The Downey building, by comparison, is frozen in time, removed from its original neighborhood and relocated to corporate property as a reminder of the brand’s beginnings. Together, they illustrate how Taco Bell’s growth has often come at the expense of its early architectural character. As Taco Bell expanded nationally, particularly under corporate ownership in the late twentieth century, its buildings became more standardized and utilitarian. The Mission-style look gradually gave way to subdued roofs, simplified signage, and eventually the modern gray and beige boxes that now dominate roadside fast food. Only a handful of early-era Taco Bell buildings remain in operation nationwide, making each closure more notable for longtime customers and architecture enthusiasts alike. The Lafayette closure underscores a broader shift happening across California, where aging fast-food buildings are
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increasingly replaced or remodeled to meet modern branding standards. What gets lost in the process is a tangible connection to the chain’s early identity, one that tied its look and feel closely to Southern California, where it was born. Though the company has not announced what will replace the Lafayette location, the closing has already reignited interest in Taco Bell’s origins. From a modest stand in Downey selling inexpensive tacos, to a preserved building sitting quietly in Irvine, the chain’s physical history tells a story that stretches far beyond any single restaurant’s last day.
LAWSUIT from page 1 scale of the claims points to potentially significant long-term financial exposure through defense costs, settlements, or court judgments. In other news, the council in open session approved a contract to move forward with a comprehensive water and sewer rate study. The agreement authorizes Willdan Financial Services to evaluate current utility rates, operating expenses, and long-term infrastructure needs. The approval does not result in an immediate rate increase but represents an early step in a process that often precedes future changes to utility charges. Rate studies typically examine whether existing rates are sufficient to cover daily operations, regulatory compliance, and the rising costs associated with maintaining and replacing aging water and sewer systems. The study is expected to assess how costs are distributed among residential, commercial, and other users while ensuring compliance with state requirements and long-term financial sustainability. While handled as a routine approval, the decision signals that the city has begun reviewing the long-term health of its water and sewer systems, an issue that could eventually affect household and business utility bills.
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Los Cerritos Community News • January 16, 2026
By Melinda Myers Brighten your home’s décor and elevate your mood by adding a few flowering plants to your indoor garden. You may be surprised to find a wide array of flowering plants that will bloom when they are grown indoors. Match the plant to the growing conditions and your maintenance style for ease of care and greatest success. Add a long-blooming moth orchid (Phalaenopsis) to your collection. It thrives in most home environments, making it the easiest oaf all the orchids to grow. Position your orchid in a brightly lit location that’s free of hot or cold drafts. Water thoroughly with tepid water once a week. Leave the flower stalk intact and wait for a second smaller flush of flowers. Or prune it back to an inch above the foliage, provide proper care and watch for a fresh set of flowers in about a year. Or gift the non-flowering plant to a gardening friend. There’s always one who’s willing to wait for the next set of flowers. In the meantime, you can invest in
PERENNIAL FLOWERING indoor plants offer an easy way to brighten home décor, with many varieties blooming for weeks or months when grown in the right conditions. Photo by Melinda Myers.
a new variety for your home. Treat yourself to an easy-care anthurium. You can now find white, red, pink, lavender and even yellow anthuriums for sale almost year-round. The colorful heartshaped “flowers” are modified leaves that hold their color for many weeks. Grow this low maintenance, very forgiving plant in bright, indirect light and water thoroughly whenever the soil begins to dry. Include bromeliads, another long bloomer with
MOTH ORCHIDS are one of the longest blooming orchid genera, producing flowers that last from 2 to 6 months before dropping. Phalaenopsis have also been known to bloom 2 to 3 times per year once they have reached a mature size
unique tropical flowers. Those with pliable leaves are more tolerant of lower light, while the stiff-leafed bromeliads need bright light to thrive. Water the soil often enough to prevent the roots from drying. After weeks and even months of flowering, the plant eventually dies but forms offsets, known as pups, you can grow to maturity. The tubular, red-burgundy flowers of lipstick plant (Aeschynanthus radicans) reveal the inspiration for its common name. Grow this long-blooming, trailing plant in a warm location with bright, indirect light. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil begins to dry. Move it to a slightly cooler location and allow the soil to dry a bit more between waterings during the winter. Have fun by adding a hanging basket of goldfish (Nematanthus) to your collection. This easy-care plant produces long-lasting, orange-red flowers that resemble goldfish.
Place it in bright, indirect light and water when the soil begins to dry. Keep these and your other houseplants healthy and minimize pest problems by providing proper growing conditions and care. Fertilize actively growing plants with a flowering houseplant fertilizer according to label directions. Boost the humidity by grouping plants together. As one plant loses moisture, transpires, its neighbors’ benefit. Place pebbles in the saucer or tray to elevate the pot above any water that collects there. As the water evaporates, it increases the humidity around the plant and eliminates the need for you to empty excess water out of the saucer. Check all your plants for insects each time you water. It is easier to manage small populations than larger infestations. Use yellow sticky traps to monitor and trap white flies, fungus gnat adults, thrips and other houseplant pests. Manage fungus gnat larvae residing in the soil with organic Summitâ Mosquito Bits®. It contains a naturally occurring soil bacteria, Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti), that’s safe for people, plants, and pets. Just follow the label directions for the most effective control. Look for opportunities to include these and other flowering plants in your home. You’ll enjoy the added color and beauty these plants provide. Melinda Myers has written more than 20 gardening books, including the Midwest Gardener’s Handbook, 2nd Edition and Small Space Gardening. She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” streaming courses and the nationally syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moment TV & radio program. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine and was commissioned by Summit for her expertise to write this article. Myers’ website is MelindaMyers.com.
Los Cerritos Community News • Friday, January 16, 2026
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605 LEAGUE GIRLS BASKETBALL:
Cerritos gives Coach Marcus Chinen his 200th win, pulls away from Whitney in second half By Loren Kopff @LorenKopff on X
On a night when Cerritos High head coach Marcus Chinen was recognized for reaching the 200-win milestone,
Cerritos does [in the past] from the parents,” said Whitney first-year head coach Carl Wilson. “They basically have a target on Tina and [junior] Alyssa [So], and it was quite obvious in the first minute of the game when they hit Tina in the head
CERRITOS HIGH junior Kalana Nguyen (left) and senior Mady Macaraeg hold up a banner that recognizes head coach Marcus Chinen for winning his 200th girls basketball game at the school, which happened on Dec 18 at Garfield High. Then the Dons defeated Whitney High 72-58 to improve to 9-11 overall at the time and 2-0 in the 605 League. PHOTO BY LOREN KOPFF.
which occurred on Dec. 18 against Garfield High, the Dons made the most of a depleted lineup. Making it better was the fact that they were facing their city rivals, Whitney High, which won the 605 League last season and had won nine of the previous 14 league meetings. Backed by solid performances from all five starters, who accounted for all but two points, the Dons, with nine healthy players, took control of the game in the opening minutes of the second half and defeated the Wildcats 72-58 last Friday. “I had no idea; I didn’t pay attention to any of that,” said Chinen on reaching the milestone last month. “That was a surprise, and it was an honor. I thank [assistant] coach Brittney [Parker-Goodin] and all the other coaches for that. I couldn’t have done it without the past coaches who I’ve had, especially coach Richard Villeza. He was my…I guess you could call it the ying and yang, and we were there all the way up until last year.” Following the brief pregame recognition, the first quarter featured four ties, one lead change as neither team had more than a four-point advantage. But as the case in the previous 15 games this season, the Wildcats had to heavily rely on their starters, three of whom are the only holdovers from last season’s CIF Division 5 state championship team. Junior Alyssa So led the charge with six points, four rebounds and an assist in the first eight minutes while freshman Ella Nelson added two baskets and a pair of rebounds while senior Tina Namaranian, the top bench player from last season’s squad, pitched in with a three-pointer, two rebounds, two steals and an assist. That would be a recurring theme in the other three quarters with those three players. “I was well-schooled about what
and probably broke her nose. Tina played probably the whole game with a broken nose. “I was warned it was going to be physical; I’ve also been warned that Oxford [Academy] and Cerritos and Pioneer all colluded how to beat Whitney,” he continued. “That’s what’s been going on for years, and this is what I was told by last year’s coach, [Myron] Jacobs, and maybe even three or four parents told me the same thing as well. I don’t think too much stock in that; I’m an experienced enough coach to know that if I’m prepared, I should be able to handle all that.” Just over half a minute into the second quarter, sophomore Jaslyn Macaraeg grabbed an offensive rebound and passed to sophomore Analiyah Coneita who gave the Dons a 15-14 lead. The hosts would not trail the remainder of the half, but its biggest lead would be seven, which came after Macaraeg had a steal and scored with 2:27 left to put her team up 26-19. So began the second half with a twopointer and a three-pointer within the first 63 seconds to give Whitney a 31-30 lead. After that, Cerritos ramped up its game and went on an 11-0 run that the Wildcats could not recover from. It began with a three-pointer from Coneita, and less than a minute later, sophomore Julia Santos scored on a steal. Following a timeout from Wilson, a steal and three-pointer from Macaraeg gave Cerritos its biggest lead to this point at 39-31. Even though the final five minutes of the third quarter would be nearly even in the scoring department, it was evident that Cerritos had more firepower than the Wildcats. And even though Whitney had basically its starters who did nearly all the
offense, Chinen wasn’t about to key in on get back to within a dozen points, with just them, or one or two players. 2:44 left to play, time would run out as it “It’s all of them, because when you missed its final four baskets in the game. look at it, I’ve heard…there’s someone “That was huge; I think Analiyah got else on there too who has shot the ball us going,” said Chinen. “And then when well,” said Chinen. “So, it’s not just one Cam had those two free throws, from there [player]. The thing is when you start I think the girls started feeling it a little bit hitting three’s, it’s contagious. One hits, more and started feeling more relaxed. I then another one hits, and the confidence think we were tense all the way up until goes up. When that happens to a team, then, and when we started hitting some and it starts rolling, that’s when a team shots, I think the team started relaxing and becomes very dangerous.” we started playing our game.” Whitney thought it was going on such But even with a 16-point lead with a roll within the first two minutes of the 2:19 remaining, Chinen was ready to fourth quarter as the ‘Cats chipped into celebrate because he has seen doubletheir deficit with Namaranian and Nelson digit leads evaporate with less time on the each connecting on a field goal and So clock. converting a pair of free throws to make “They have some very good threeit a 55-48. Then it went south for the point shooters, [and] they rebound very visitors. well,” said Chinen. “Even though we have “I actually thought we could win the a 10 or a 12-point lead, and with a minute game,” said Wilson. “I’ve been down by left, that’s not a secured game, especially three points before with four seconds to with some girls who can shoot the ball.” go and win the game. I’m always thinking So was the top scorer in the game I’m in the game, and we’ve been down by with 22 points and grabbed five rebounds double digits in some of our games and while Namaranian added 20 points and come back to win them. But, if you were seven rebounds. Nelson pitched in with sitting there watching the same game, by a dozen points and nine rebounds while then with six minutes to go, my starters junior Cheyanne Cheung pulled down are fried. They are giving everything and seven boards. playing as hard as they possibly can.” “We don’t have a big post presence,” Coneita converted a three-point play, said Wilson. “Alyssa So is a dynamic then Wilson was called for a technical foul basketball player. If she was a foot taller, for asking one of the referees, ‘what are she would be a [NCAA Division] 1 we playing, football’? Senior Cameron prospect.” Lacorte made both free throws and on He went on to say that So is one of the ensuing possession, Coneita made a the top five players he has ever coached, basket and 49 seconds later, another one which includes stints at Inglewood High as Cerritos scored nine straight points in from 1991-2000 with the boys team, El a span of 1:10. Although Whitney would [ See CERRITOS , page 12 ]
10 Los Cerritos Community News • January 16, 2026
NEWS AND NOTES FROM PRESS ROW
First half of league play to end as area teams scramble for playoff positioning By Loren Kopff @LorenKopff on X
Friday marks the end of the first half of action in the 605 League, Gateway League, Mid-Cities League and Olympic League with the second half beginning next week. Of the 31 area boys and girls basketball and boys and girls soccer teams. As the midway point approaches and teams continue to jockey for league placings for the CIFSouthern Section playoffs, which begin on Feb. 11, here is an update. 605 LEAGUE Both Cerritos High basketball teams have won their first three games as they hosted Artesia High this past Wednesday. The boys are 11-10 overall the first time they have been above .500 since the third game of the season and have won six in a row and seven of their last nine games while the girls are 10-11 overall. They have not been north of .500 since the seventh game of the season. Both basketball teams will visit Oxford Academy on Friday and before hosting John Glenn on Wednesday. The Artesia and Glenn boys basketball teams have lost their first three league games as they will face each other at Glenn on Friday. After facing Huntington Park on Saturday, Artesia (7-11 overall) will visit Pioneer High on Wednesday while Glenn (4-10) is scheduled to host Monrovia High on Saturday and Bassett High on Monday, and travel to Edgewood High on Thursday after its meeting with Cerritos. The Whitney High boys basketball team was in a three-way tie for second place with Oxford Academy and Pioneer and will visit the latter on Friday before hosting the former on Wednesday. The Wildcats (8-13) need to go at least 6-1 to finish with at least
a .500 record, which is the requirement to be eligible for an at-large play berth if they don’t finish as one of the top three teams. The Whitney girls team eased past Glenn 51-13 this past Tuesday to improve to 11-7, 3-1 while Pioneer was in third place at 2-1, followed by Artesia at 1-2. The Glenn boys soccer team (5-53 overall) had won its first three league contests while Artesia (6-10-1) was in second place at 2-0-1, then Cerritos (4-4-2, 2-1-0) while the Artesia girls soccer team (10-1-3) had won its first 2 league games. GATEWAY LEAGUE The biggest boys basketball game in the first round will take place on Friday when La Mirada High visits Gahr High. The Matadores, which won their first three league games, outlasted Weston Ranch 99-87 this past Tuesday in a non-league game, improving to 15-6 overall Their first three league games were won by an average of over 32 points and face a Gahr team that is 12-6, 1-1. La Mirada will play San Diego-based Francis Parker High on Saturday before travelling to Dominguez High on Wednesday while Gahr will play Wilson High and Dorsey High in a pair of non-league games against teams from the CIF-Los Angeles City Section on Saturday and Monday, respectively. In girls basketball action, Gahr (7-12, 0-2) hosts La Mirada (3-11, 0-3) on Friday for its only game of the upcoming week while the Matadores will travel to Downey High on Wednesday. In boys soccer action, Gahr (5-6-2, 0-3-0) hosted Downey on Jan. 15 and will welcome Lynwood High on Tuesday before going to Paramount High on Thursday. The La Mirada girls soccer team (46-3) went to Downey on Jan. 15 and will travel to Lynwood on Tuesday, then
entertain Paramount on Thursday. MID-CITIES LEAGUE The up and coming Norwalk High boys basketball team are two wins shy of at least a .500 record once the season is over after defeating Lynwood 56-34 last Friday. The Lancers (12-8, 2-1) go to Paramount on Friday and will visit Firebaugh High on Wednesday The Norwalk girls basketball team has won its first three games and began the week at 10-6 overall as the Lancers will go to Mayfair High on Friday before hosting Glenn on Monday in a non-league contest. The Lancers then make the trek to Firebaugh on Wednesday. The La Mirada boys soccer team fell to 2-10-0, 0-4-0 after a 4-3 loss to Dominguez this past Tuesday as the Matadores hosted Bellflower on Jan. 15 and will welcome Mayfair on Mayfair on Tuesday before going to Norwalk on Thursday. Norwalk improved to 5-5-1, 3-1-0 after a 3-0 win over Mayfair this past Tuesday as the Lancers went to Dominguez on Jan. 15 and will travel to Firebaugh on Tuesday. The Gahr girls soccer team, which scored two goals in December, has netted eight goals in its three-game winning streak, including a 6-0 shutout over Dominguez this past Tuesday. The Gladiators (4-100, 3-1-0) visited Bellflower High on Jan. 15 and will travel to Mayfair on Tuesday before hosting Norwalk on Thursday. Norwalk dropped a 2-1 contest to Mayfair this past Tuesday to fall to 2-11-1, 0-4-0 and entertained Dominguez on Jan. 15 and will host Firebaugh on Tuesday. OLYMPIC LEAGUE Valley Christian High’s boys basketball team went to Whittier Christian this past Tuesday in a battle of 0-2 teams as the Defenders (10-10) will go to Heritage
Christian on Friday while the girls basketball team pulled off a 53-48 mild upset win over the Heralds to improve to 13-5, 2-1 while giving Whittier Christian its first league loss. After going to Heritage Christian on Friday, V.C. will host Pasadena Poly on Wednesday. Both soccer teams are at or near the top of the league with the boys (9-3-1, 2-1-0) losing to Whittier Christian 1-0 this past Tuesday and the girls (13-3-4, 2-01) ending in a 0-0 tie. The boys will host Heritage Christian on Friday while the girls will visit the Warriors. 11-MAN FOOTBALL Last Friday, the All-CIF-SS was released for 11-man football and numerous area players were recognized for their hard work. La Mirada junior running back and kick returner Josiah Fregoso was on the Div. 8 team while Div. 9 had a plethora of players from three area teams. V.C.’s Brendan Chambers was Coach of the Year, senior wide receiver Oliver Boateng was the Offensive Player of the Year and senior linebacker Cole Hefner was the Defensive Player of the Year. They were joined by senior lineman Max Douglas and Isaac Morales, senior defensive back Sean Bouma and senior linebacker Lucas Witt. Cerritos seniors Mateo Arancibia (kicker), Bailey Crawford (lineman), Devion Stinson (lineman) and La’Brenten Wilson (running back) and Norwalk senior running back Da’ron Walker Anderson (running back) were added to the list that consists of 42 players. Gahr senior running back and safety Jaidyn Backus and junior lineman Sebastian Jimenez were part of the best from Division 11.
BOMBEROS from page 1
cornhole tournament that generated approximately $15,000 in 2025. Since becoming a nonprofit organization, OC Bomberos has expanded its leadership team while members continue working full time in the fire service. Several scholarship recipients have gone on to work for agencies including the Los Angeles County Fire Department, Cal Fire, and the U.S. Forest Service. In 2025, a former scholarship recipient
programs typically require full-time attendance, leaving students little ability to maintain outside employment. As a result, many trainees juggle long days in class with jobs or family responsibilities, often at the expense of rest and academic performance. Training costs can be substantial. A basic college fire academy can cost about
CONGRATULATIONS: Marcus was a Fall OCB scholarship recipient.
Solution on page 15
$6,000, EMT programs average around $2,500, and paramedic programs can reach $13,000. Scholarship recipients may apply the funds toward tuition, housing, books, transportation, or other essential expenses while enrolled. Beyond scholarships, OC Bomberos provides mentorship and career guidance. Volunteers assist candidates with entrance exams, interview preparation, and introductions to local departments, helping them navigate what is often a highly competitive hiring process. The nonprofit raises funds through community events, including an annual
was hired by the Orange County Fire Authority, marking a milestone for the program. Robles said the organization’s mission is focused on removing financial barriers that have nothing to do with ability, commitment, or aptitude. OC Bomberos continues to support recipients after they are hired and encourages new firefighters to give back by mentoring future candidates — creating a pipeline that connects communities like Santa Fe Springs to careers in fire service throughout the region.
Los Cerritos Community News • Friday, January 16, 2026 11
605 LEAGUE BOYS BASKETBALL:
605 LEAGUE BOYS BASKETBALL:
Cerritos continues dominance over Whitney behind another solid performance from Ribac
Artesia, sans pair of starters, falls to Whitney for first time ever
By Loren Kopff @LorenKopff on X
When Whitney High stunned Cerritos High 61-58 in last season’s 605 League opener, it snapped a 15game losing skid to its crosstown rivals, including the last 12 coming in league action. The Wildcats had a team of 16 players, including four senior starters, and so much was expected with eight returning players. But so far it has been rough-going for first-year head coach Jazzy Kruczynski who saw his team get dominated 60-32 last Friday, sending the Wildcats to 7-13 overall and 1-1 in the circuit. Senior William Kang scored 33 seconds into the game but after that, it was all Cerritos, which scored the next eight straight points and led 15-7 after the opening quarter. “I’ll take the blame for the loss because I should have done a better job of prepping these guys,” said Kruczynski. “We spent the last two days getting ready for Cerritos; we watched film. But I guess what we did and what I have planned just didn’t work out. When we face them again, I’ll come up with a little bit of a better practice strategy as well as a game strategy.” He added that he knew Cerritos likes to throw the high pick and roll and he spent some practice time on icing the screens. But once the game began, his players didn’t ice the screens. That allowed the Dons to run their offense the way they wanted to. Whitney was still within reach with 3:40 remaining in the half and trailed by seven points. But the hosts went on a 12-0 scoring spree that would be the determining factor. Sophomore Vincent Valenzuela began the run with a steal and basket and after a free throw from junior Devon Hardy, freshman sensation Jace Ribac scored consecutive baskets, the latter after his only theft of the game. Then junior Noah Lai got into the action with back to back buckets, the first of which came following one of his three steals. By halftime, the Dons were already cruising with a 33-14 lead. “That’s just us not doing what we wanted to do defensively,” said Kruczynski. “We knew who the shooters were going to be; we knew who the ball handlers were going to be and who was going to drive it in. But we just didn’t take care of business.” “It’s always good to get those runs,” said Cerritos head coach Jonathan Watanabe. “We always talk about closing quarters well, and you want to make sure that every quarter you’re controlling that and you’re getting a few extra ones whether it’s stops or scores. But it’s tough sometimes and we really try to emphasize that.” While Cerritos was enjoying a balanced scoring attack and defensive effort from its starters and three of its bench players, the same could not be said for the Wildcats, who got their scoring from only three starters-juniors Jack Diancin, Joseph Roman and Kang. Not a factor was junior leading scorer Jezreel Dela Cruz, who missed
all five of his attempts from the field, but grabbed five rebounds in the half. Equally frustrating was the fact that senior Shayadheeran Saravanakumar, the team’s tallest player and probably leading rebounder, did not have a board in the half, and was saddled with three fouls. “I didn’t know about the zero rebounds, but that’s awesome,” said Watanabe. “We knew we had to keep him off the boards. We knew we were going to try to take away Jezreel; I know he does a lot for them and their point guard did a great job. But I thought [sophomore] Wilbur [Lai] off the bench played a great game.” “For Shayadheeran not having any rebounds is always not a good look when you play the center spot,” said Kruczynski. “But our guards were really picking up the slack on the rebounding side. He knows that he needs to box out and create space for my guards to come in and get rebounds. Obviously, he should be getting some of the easy ones if they’re there. Him getting into foul trouble really does suck because he’s a real big defensive piece for us.” After connecting on five of just 21 shots from the field in the half, it wouldn’t get better in the second half as Whitney was true on six of 21 from the field and only scored consecutive points once. Meanwhile, the Dons continued to keep the pressure on, going on a 12-5 run over the final 5:23 of the third quarter and a 9-3 run over the final 4:13 of the game. Wilbur Lai led the ‘Cats with 10 points, all coming in the second half, and had a pair of rebounds while Diancin and Kang added eight and seven points, respectively. Ribac paced the Dons with 19 points and was one of 10 players who found the scoring column. He has scored at least 10 points in straight games and 15 of the first 20 games, the most by any Cerritos player. Noah Lai scored 11 points and had half a dozen rebounds while junior Jeremiah Ju and sophomore Kaleb Duag each scored six points off the bench, “Jazzy is doing a great job of coaching them,” said Watanabe. “To get a late start to take over a program and not to have returning stud guys…he’s working with the younger guys coming off the bench last year and he’s doing a great job with them. I think he’s building a great culture; they play hard and that’s one reason why we can never really pull away [from them] because they are never going to give up.” Whitney (7-13, 1-1) will travel to Pioneer High on Friday to end the first round of league action before hosting Oxford Academy on Wednesday while Cerritos defeated Pioneer 73-67 this past Monday to improve to 11-10, 3-0 and will travel to Oxford Academy on Friday before welcoming John Glenn High on Wednesday.
By Loren Kopff @LorenKopff on X
The defending 605 League champions are finding a tough time trying to repeat and following a historic loss to Whitney High this past Tuesday, Artesia High is falling deeper in the standings. For the first time in 14 meetings, all coming since the 605 league was formed, Whitney defeated Artesia 59-50, and for the first time since 2016, the Pioneers are 0-3 to begin a league season. Adding fuel to the fire, the Pioneers were without senior Jordan Heredia, the team’s second leading scorer, and sophomore Aiden Atkins, the team’s fourth leading scorer who was feeling sick. Still, the Pioneers (7-11, 0-3) put up a valiant effort in the second half after trailing by as many as 15 points late in the first half. “I would say [not having] Jordan, who is our second leading scorer, hurt,” said Artesia head coach Jeff Myles. “We had struggles with the ball at times, but he didn’t play for reasons. We just didn’t play well tonight; hats off to Whitney. They made eight three’s, and we made one; that’s a plus 21 points and that’s the ballgame right there.” The Pioneers never led in the game and Whitney junior Jack Diancin set the tone with a pair of three-pointers in the last half of the opening quarter, the first coming with 3:53 remaining in the stanza and kicked off a 12-2 run. The Wildcats wouldn’t score for over four minutes however Artesia couldn’t take advantage and it haunted the red and black because the hosts went on their second big run of the night. With 5:18 remaining in the half, junior Jezreel Dela Cruz started an 11-4 run to put the Wildcats up 29-14. That run featured downtown shots from senior William Kang, sophomore Ved Ghandi and Diancin, all in succession. As poor as the Pioneers shot in the first half (six of 19), the second half would be much to their liking, and it began with 6:02 left in the third quarter. Sophomore Andrew Quarles began a stretch of 15 straight points to bring the red and black to within a point at 34-33. Quarles scored a third of those points and senior Christian Stewart added a pair of baskets during that time. Whitney was up 36-33 after Dela Cruz ended that scoring spree, but a basket from Stewart and a free throw from Quarles enabled Artesia to tie the game with 27.8 seconds left in the quarter. It would be no more than a twopossession game for most of the fourth quarter before six straight points in a 20-second span made it a 48-48 affair after a basket from sophomore Kelly Okeke. But senior William Kang gave the ‘Cats the lead for good with 3:11 left to play, then added a three-pointer 32 seconds later. Artesia sophomore Kobe Young would make it a one-possession game with 1:48 remaining, but the Pioneers would attempt three shots after that, all unsuccessful. “It takes so much effort to come back when you’re down,” said Myles. “We
never had that extra umph to kind of get over the hump. But we battled back. We’ve been winning league for a while; we’ve been good for a while and like I told the seniors [after the game], they just got caught in a bad year where we had 11 guys graduate, eight guys who played and I lost five coaches. So, this is pretty much a transition year. We’re working, we’ll be back and we’ll be better next year.” Artesia was one of seven from beyond the arc in the first half, did not attempt a long range shot in the third quarter and missed on its four attempts from downtown in the fourth quarter. In contrast, Whitney (8-13, 2-1) was eight of 17 on three-pointers. “Jordan is probably our best threepoint shooter, and he didn’t play today, so that kind of hurt us,” said Myles. “But guys have to make shots. We shoot everyday in practice; they shoot on their own, so when the time comes to make shots…tonight they didn’t make shots. “Again, we’re a young team and none of these guys really have varsity experience,” he continued. “Even the guys who came back didn’t play heavy varsity minutes [last season]. It’s a young team, but we’re taking our lumps this year to kind of get better for the future.” The 59 points scored by Whitney was the most ever in the 15 games against the Pioneers, The previous high was 42, which came last season. In fact, in the two games played last season, the combined winning margin by Artesia was eight points. Dela Cruz, who missed all eight shots he took against Cerritos High last Friday and was limited to a fourth quarter free throw, bounced back to lead all scorers with 21 points, nearly half of them in the fourth quarter, while Kang added 17 points and Diancin another 10 points. Stewart paced the Pioneers with 18 points12 rebounds, two blocks and an assist while Okeke came off the bench to add 14 points. Artesia visits John Glenn High on Friday and will step out of league action to face Paramount High on Saturday and Huntington Park High on Monday before travelling to Pioneer High on Wednesday.
12 Los Cerritos Community News • January 16, 2026
ARTESIA from page 1
CERRITOS from page 9
the presentations, the council voted to approve grant allocations for 2026. Mayor Rene Trevino said the council was encouraged by the scope of programs presented and looked ahead to continued work in the coming year. In 2025, a total of $99,000 was awarded to five organizations. The Artesia-Cerritos Lions Club received $12,000 and reported on programs including eyeglass assistance for students and holiday basket distributions. The Artesia Historical Society received $37,500 for historic preservation efforts, including work related to a planned replica bell tower honoring the original 1875 Artesia Grammar School bell. Friends of the Artesia Library received $25,000 to expand educational, cultural, and literacy-based programming for children, teens, and adults. Saahas for Cause was awarded $13,000 to provide culturally responsive public health education, wellness workshops, and multilingual outreach. The South Asian Network received $11,500 to support community health services, citizenship assistance, educational workshops, and naturalization support. For the 2026 funding cycle, the City Council approved $193,400 in nonprofit grants. Artesia Christian Home will receive $27,000 to support senior care services through its CARE Fund, addressing gaps in Medi-Cal reimbursement for skilled nursing, meals, and daily living assistance. The Artesia Historical Society was approved for $40,000 to continue construction of the replica bell tower project. The Artesia-Cerritos Lions Club will receive $19,800 to continue community programs including eyeglass assistance and holiday distributions. Friends of the Artesia Library was approved for $16,800 to launch a video game lending program while continuing its educational and cultural offerings. The Miss Artesia Pageant organization was awarded $26,000 to support youth leadership, civic engagement, and community service activities, including pageant-related events. The Rotary Club will receive $21,400 to provide literacy and enrichment programs for youth at AJ Padelford Park, including hands-on learning, computer-based activities, and supervised gaming. Saahas for Cause was approved for $20,700 to continue wellness and “Know Your Rights” outreach within the South Asian community, with an emphasis on expanding participation. The South Asian Network will receive $21,700 to continue its health and citizenship programs while increasing the number of residents served. Separately from the nonprofit allocation, the Artesia Chamber of Commerce was approved for $30,000 in grant funding. The funds will be used for business promotion, community outreach, and organizational development, including events, marketing efforts, website enhancements, and other activities aimed at supporting local businesses. All grant recipients are required to submit year-end reports and present to the City Council detailing how the funds were used and the impact of their programs.Additional information about the Community Benefit Grant Program is available through the City of Artesia at (562) 865-6262.
Camino College and Brentwood High. Making things worse for Wilson and the Wildcats, his bench consists of three freshmen and three sophomores, some of whom he had to recruit at the school when he took the job this past fall. “I know this sounds like excuses, but these are the facts, and it goes back to numbers,” he later continues. “I don’t have the numbers to even scrimmage against anybody in practice. So, if you look at my bench, with the three freshmen, realistically should be playing [on the junior varsity team], plus the freshman I have starting on varsity. If I had the other players who quit [from last season’s team], we would be a much more rounded team being able to handle physicality. But if you look at all the losses we have, they have come against teams who have a big post presence, and I can’t make excuses for that.” Macaraeg paced the Dons with 21 points while Coneita had 18 points and three steals and Lacorte pitched in with 16 points. Junior Kianna Rangle once again came up huge on the glass, grabbing 10 rebounds while scoring seven points and Santos rounded out the starting five with eight points, three rebounds, two assists and two steals. As members of the 605 League, Chinen has finished in first place three times, second place twice, including last season, and third place twice while Whitney has won the league title three times and finished in second place three times with a fourth place finish sprinkled in there. Before last Friday, the five Cerritos wins over Whitney have been by six, 10, 20, four and five points. Thus, whenever these two programs face each other, it seems to be each other’s most important league contest. “I think what it is, when you really look at the big picture overall, they don’t have a football team,” said Chinen. “So when it comes to a rivalry, it starts with a football team and trickles down into the other sports. With us, their rivalry, because their crosstown, is us. Other than that, I would say they bring out the best of us, and I think we bring out the best of them.” Whitney (10-7, 2-1) got back to its winning ways with a 50-43 win over Artesia High this past Monday and will visit Pioneer High on Friday before hosting Mayfair High on Tuesday in a non-league tilt and Oxford Academy on Wednesday. Cerritos visited Pioneer this past Monday and defeated the Titans 6955, moving its mark to 10-11, 3-0. The Dons will go to Oxford Academy on Friday before hosting John Glenn High on Wednesday. The rematch with Whiney on the east side of town will be on Jan. 23, which is Whitney’s homecoming game. “It basically comes down to one thing; execution,” said Wilson of the rematch. “If we execute our plays, there are plays that they’ve never seen. I purposely didn’t run a lot of stuff [tonight] that I normally run. I learned a long time ago you don’t show all your cards the first time you play somebody.” “It’s going to be pretty intense over there also,” said Chinen. “They’re going to bring it, and we have to match their intensity. It’s going to be loud and it’s going to be a very good game, and we look forward to it and look forward to the challenge. This is something that will help us going into the playoffs, and hopefully we can make a good run. But they push us and we push them.”
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING/PROPOSED ORDINANCE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Cerritos City Council will conduct a public hearing at a regular meeting on Monday, January 26, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. on the following matter: Review and consideration to waive full reading of and adopt A RESOLUTION OF THE CERRITOS CITY COUNCIL APPROVING GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT 20261, A REQUEST TO AMEND THE CERRITOS GENERAL PLAN BY CHANGING THE LAND USE DESIGNATION OF APPROXIMATELY ±0.44 ACRES OF LAND, LOCATED AT 18616 BLOOMFIELD AVENUE (APN: 7030-002-903), FROM LOW DENSITY RESIDENTIAL TO PARKS AND OPEN SPACE.* Review and consideration to waive full reading of and introduce AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF CERRITOS APPROVING DEVELOPMENT MAP AMENDMENT 2026-1, A REQUEST TO AMEND THE ZONE CLASSIFICATION OF APPROXIMATELY ±0.44 ACRES OF LAND, LOCATED AT 18616 BLOOMFIELD AVENUE (APN: 7030-002-903), FROM SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL (RS-6500) TO OPEN SPACE (OS).* Review and consideration to waive full reading of and adopt A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF CERRITOS APPROVING LOT LINE ADJUSTMENT 2026-1, A PROPOSAL BY THE CITY OF CERRITOS TO ADJUST EXISTING PROPERTY LINES BETWEEN TWO PARCELS WITHIN HERITAGE PARK, LOCATED AT 18600 AND 18616 BLOOMFIELD AVENUE (APNS 7030-002-901 AND 7030-002-903). *Pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) and Section 15305 of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines, this project is exempt from CEQA Review. City Attorney Summary: This matter involves two parcels at Heritage Park, (1) 18600 Bloomfield Avenue, a 14.73-acre parcel comprising the majority of Heritage Park, including the park island, and (2) 18616 Bloomfield Avenue, a 0.44-acre parcel on the southwest part of the Park comprising the landscaped pedestrian walking path next to the Heritage Park community center. Regarding the 18600 Bloomfield parcel, structures and surfaces at the play island are aging and deteriorated and in need of rehabilitation. Measure A funds from the County of Los Angeles will be used to make the repairs. However, a condition of Measure A funds requires certain deed restrictions to be recorded on the parcel; therefore a lot line adjustment creating a new lot for the play island is necessary to facilitate the deed restrictions and the acquisition of Measure A funds. Additionally, the 18616 Bloomfield parcel was in the past a single family residence with a General Plan land use designation of ‘Low Density Residential’ and a zoning designation of ‘Single Family Residential (RS-6500)’. The City purchased the parcel in 2016 and demolished the dwelling unit and turned it into a landscaped walking path. However, the general plan land use designation and zoning designation were never changed to open space. Therefore, a general plan amendment to change the land use designation to ‘Parks and Open Space’ and a development map amendment to change the zoning designation to ‘Open Space (OS)’ are necessary to make the parcel legally conforming as an existing park/open space use. A copy of the full text of the proposed Ordinance can be viewed or obtained by contacting the Office of the City Clerk during regular business hours (Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., weekends and observed holidays excepted) at 18125 Bloomfield Avenue, Cerritos, CA 90703, city_clerk@cerritos.gov, or (562) 916-1248. This public hearing will be conducted in person in the Cerritos City Council Chamber, 18125 Bloomfield Avenue, Cerritos, California, 90703. The public hearing will also air live on Cerritos TV3 and will be streamed over the City of Cerritos website at www. cerritos.gov. A copy of the related agenda report will be available for download from the website on the Tuesday prior to the public hearing. Public comments can be provided during the meeting or via email to city_clerk@cerritos.gov or by hard copy to the Office of the City Clerk no later than 3:00 p.m. on the day of the meeting. Please identify the agenda item number in the subject line of the email or hard copy document. All written correspondence received by the 3:00 p.m. deadline will be distributed to the legislative body prior to the meeting and the document(s) will be retained with the public record of the meeting. If you challenge the above-mentioned item and related actions in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence emailed to the Office of the City Clerk by the submission deadline, prior to the public hearing. Any person interested in this matter may contact the Office of the City Clerk at (562) 916-1248 for additional information and/or appear at the hearing in person or by agent and be heard. /s/Cynthia Nava, City Clerk Published at Los Cerritos Community News 1/16/26
PUBLIC NOTICE CITY OF PICO RIVERA Community Development Block Grant Program Announcement of Citizen Participation Notice of Fund Availability TO ALL INTERESTED PARTIES: NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of Pico Rivera is initiating its citizen participation and application process for the 2026-2027 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funded program. The City is an entitlement community and is expected to receive Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for Fiscal Year 2026-2027. The City is estimated to receive approximately $600,000 in CDBG funds for the 2026-2027 fiscal year. A maximum of fifteen percent (15%) of the expected allocation may fund Public Service activities. Funding is contingent on availability from HUD. CDBG funds may be used for a variety of community development and housing activities, including public services, public facility and infrastructure improvements, and residential code enforcement and housing improvement projects. CDBG applications are available now on the City’s website. Applications must be received by the City of Pico Rivera no later than 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 12, 2026. Please mail applications to: Community & Economic Development Department Attn: Julia Gonzalez Re: 2026-2027 CDBG Application 6615 Passons Blvd. Pico Rivera, CA 90660. Applications may also be emailed to juliagonzalez@pico-rivera.org, please use “CDBG FY 26-27 Application” in the subject line. Late applications will not be accepted. Those desiring an application and/or further information should contact: Contact: Phone: Email:
Julia Gonzalez (562) 801-4447 juliagonzalez@pico-rivera.org
The City will evaluate proposals for CDBG eligibility. After the proposals are evaluated, the staff will make recommendations for the total amount of CDBG funds which should be allocated. The City Council will hold a public hearing regarding the funding allocation recommendations. The Pico Rivera City Council approves final CDBG allocations. ESPAÑOL: Información en Español puede ser obtenida llamando al (562) 801-4447. Published: January 16, 2026 Los Cerritos Community News Published at Los Cerritos Community News 1/16/26
Los Cerritos Community News • Friday, January 16, 2026 13 NOTICE OF ADOPTED ORDINANCE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Cerritos City Council adopted Ordinance No. 1053, AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF CERRITOS APPROVING DEVELOPMENT CODE AMENDMENT 2025-1, A REQUEST TO AMEND TITLE 22 OF THE CERRITOS MUNICIPAL CODE BY ADDING THE FOLLOWING CHAPTERS: (i) CHAPTER 22.53, AREA DEVELOPMENT PLAN EIGHTEEN (ADP-18); (ii) CHAPTER 22.54, AREA DEVELOPMENT PLAN NINETEEN (ADP-19); AND (iii) CHAPTER 22.56, AREA DEVELOPMENT PLAN TWENTY-ONE (ADP-21), TO ESTABLISH SPECIFIC DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS FOR THREE (3) SITES IDENTIFIED IN THE CITY’S 2021-2029 HOUSING ELEMENT, INCLUDING STANDARDS FOR THE POTENTIAL DEVELOPMENT OF RESIDENTIAL USES AT THE SUBJECT SITES. THE AMENDMENT IS PROPOSED PURSUANT TO PROGRAM 12 OF THE CITY’S 20212029 HOUSING ELEMENT, AS REQUIRED BY APPLICABLE STATE HOUSING LAW. THE THREE (3) SITES REFERENCED HEREIN INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING: (i) SITE A: 20106 PIONEER BLVD., 20122 PIONEER BLVD., 20200 PIONEER BLVD., 20223 CABRILLO LN. (APNS 7055-017-020, 7055-017-010, 7055-017-011, 7055-017-002) (ii) SITE 7: 14100 ARBOR PL., 14103 ARBOR PL., 14141 ARBOR PL., 14120 ARBOR PL., 14133 ARBOR PL., 16401 BERWYN RD., 16402 BERWYN RD., 16412 BERWYN RD., 16417 BERWYN RD., 16601 VALLEY VIEW AVE. (APNS 7003-013-903, 7003-013-016, 7003-013-011, 7003 013-003, 7003-013-022, 7003-013-002, 7003-013-008, 7003-013009,7003-013-010,7003-013-012,7003 013-901, 7003-013-021, 7003-013-801, 7003013-803, 7003-013-904) (iii) SITE B: 11238 183RD ST. (APN 7038-014-016) *Pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21080.085 and Section 15061(b)(3) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines, this project is statutorily and categorically exempt from CEQA review. City Attorney Summary: This project consists of the rezoning of three (3) sites listed in the City of Cerritos’ 2021-2029 Housing Element as Site A, Site 7, and Site B, as required by applicable State Housing Element law. Sites A, 7, and B were previously zoned for commercial/ industrial uses only and did not allow for residential uses. The rezonings of these sites allow for continued commercial/ industrial uses, but now also allow for residential uses in order to accommodate any future residential, mixed-income housing projects. This project implements Program 12 of the City’s Housing Element, the Multi-Family and Residential Mixed-Used Housing Facilitation Program. California Government Code Section 65583.4(a) requires the city to implement Program 12 by rezoning these sites that were previously not zoned for residential uses. The full text of this adopted Ordinance can be obtained at the Office of the City Clerk, 18125 Bloomfield Avenue, Cerritos, CA 90703. I, Cynthia Nava, City Clerk of the City of Cerritos, California, do hereby certify that the foregoing Ordinance No. 1053 was introduced for first reading on December 11, 2025. Thereafter, said Ordinance was duly approved and adopted at a regular meeting of the Cerritos City Council on January 12, 2026, by the following vote: AYES: Hong, Pulido, Tse, Johnson, Yokoyama; NOES: None. /s/Cynthia Nava, City Clerk Published at Los Cerritos Community News 1/16/26 CITY OF LA MIRADA NOTICE INVITING BIDS CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT NO. 2025-04 WINDERMERE AND GARDENHILL FLOORING REPLACEMENT AND INTERIOR PAINTING Notice is hereby given that the City of La Mirada, California invites sealed bids for the furnishing of all labor, materials, equipment, and services for Capital Improvement Project No. 2025-04, Windermere and Gardenhill Flooring Replacement and Interior Painting. Work includes flooring replacement at Windermere and Gardenhill Park and interior painting at Gardenhill Park in the City of La Mirada. Project Documents are available online from American Reprographics Company (ARC). Bidders may obtain free copies of the Plans, Specifications and other Contract Documents online by visiting the ARC Southern California website: https://customer.e-arc.com/ arcEOC/PWELL_Main.asp?mem=29. Look under PUBLIC PLANROOM and click GO, then search for City of La Mirada from the dropdown list titled “in all company”. You can also contact ARC at (949) 660-1150 or costamesa.planwell@e-arc.com to request Plans and Specifications. Sealed bids shall be delivered to the City Clerk at or before 11 a.m. on February 11, 2026. Bids must be submitted on the blank forms, prepared and furnished for that purpose and included in the Plans and Specifications. The City reserves the right to reject any and all bids, or delete portions of any or all bids, or waive any informality or irregularity in the bid or the bid procedures. Leticia Revilla, City Clerk Published at La Mirada Lamplighter 1/16/26 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING DEVELOPMENT PLAN APPROVAL CASE NO. 1014 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning Commission of the City of Santa Fe Springs will hold a Public Hearing to consider the following:
CITY OF LA MIRADA NOTICE OF PROPOSED ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 747 APPROVING ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT NO. 58 TO REZONE APPROXIMATELY 36.9 ACRES FROM INDUSTRIAL TO COMMERCIAL AND COMMERCIAL TO INDUSTRIAL CONSISTENT WITH GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT 2025-01 AND ADOPT PROGRAMMATIC NEGATIVE DECLARATION AND FINDING THE ACTION TO BE IN COMPLIANCE WITH CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA). PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that on January 27, 2026, at 6:30 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, in the Council Chambers located at 13700 La Mirada Boulevard, La Mirada, the City Council of the City of La Mirada will consider adopting its Ordinance No. 747. Summary of Ordinance No. 747 Ordinance No. 747 would approve Zoning Ordinance No. 58, which proposes to rezone a total of ten (10) parcels comprising approximately 36.9 acres, as follows: a. North Site - 20.4 acres from Industrial (M-2) to Freeway Commercial (C-F) b. South Site - 16.5 acres from Freeway Commercial (C-F) to Industrial (M-2) c. Ensure consistency with General Plan Amendment No. GPA-2025-01 d. Promote compatible land uses and support economic development along Knott Avenue, Artesia Boulevard, and Coyote Creek The proposed zoning changes are intended to realign designations with existing land use patterns and do not approve any specific development project. A certified copy of the entirety of the text of Ordinance No. 747 is available in the office of the City Clerk, City of La Mirada, 13700 La Mirada Boulevard, La Mirada, California, and is available for public inspection at that location. Manuel Muñoz, Community Development Director Dated: January 16, 2026 Published at La Mirada Lamplighter 1/16/26 CITY OF HAWAIIAN GARDENS PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT NOTICE INVITING SEALED BIDS FY 2024-25 ARTERIAL STREET IMPROVEMENTS, PROJECT 116 CDBG PROJECT NO. 602798-25 Public Notice is hereby given that the City of Hawaiian Gardens invites sealed bids pertaining to the item(s) listed below: MANDATORY PRE-BID MEETING ON: Wednesday, January 28, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. BIDS MUST BE RECEIVED BY:
Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.
BIDS WILL BE OPENED ON:
Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.
PLACE OF BID RECEIPT: Office of the City Clerk, City Hall, 21815 Pioneer Boulevard Hawaiian Gardens, CA 90716 The City of Hawaiian Gardens invites sealed bids for the FY 2024-25 Arterial Street Improvements, Project 116, and will receive such bids in the office of the City Clerk, 21815 Pioneer Boulevard, Hawaiian Gardens, California 90716, up to the hour of 11:00 a.m., on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at which time they will be publicly opened. The general items of work include Traffic control, removal and reconstruction of concrete sidewalks, curbs and gutters, driveway approaches, curb ramps, and parkway drains; cold milling existing AC pavement, ARHM overlay; adjusting manhole and cover to finish grade, installation of traffic signal loop detectors, traffic striping, signing, and marking as shown on the plans and all other items not mentioned but indicated in the Plans and Specifications. The project duration for construction shall be forty (40) working days.
DEVELOPMENT PLAN APPROVAL CASE NO. 1014: To construct a new 85,950 squarefoot concrete tilt-up industrial building within the M-2, Heavy Manufacturing, Zone.
Electronic copies of the Plans, Specifications, and Contract Documents are available on the City of Hawaiian Gardens website. If you have any questions regarding the project, please contact Neema Ghanbari, P.E., Public Works Director at (562) 420-2641, ext. 206, or via email at nghanbari@hgcity.org.
PROJECT LOCATION/APPLICANT: 9005 Sorensen Avenue (APN:8168-007-026) / Daniel T. Ricks on behalf of Xebec Realty.
Published at Los Cerritos Community News 1/16/26
CEQA STATUS: The Planning Commission will determine whether the project qualifies for a categorical exemption from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15332 – Class 32 (In-Fill Development Project) of the CEQA Guidelines. THE HEARING will be held before the Planning Commission of the City of Santa Fe Springs in the Council Chambers of the City Hall, 11710 Telegraph Road, Santa Fe Springs, on Monday, January 26, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. ALL INTERESTED PERSONS are invited to participate in the Public Hearing and provide input on the items listed above. Please note that if you challenge these items in court, you may be limited to issues raised during the Public Hearing or submitted in writing to the office of the Commission, on or before the Public Hearing. PUBLIC COMMENTS may be submitted in writing to the Community Development Department at City Hall, 11710 Telegraph Road, Santa Fe Springs CA 90670 or, otherwise, e-mail your comment to the Planning Commission Secretary at esmeraldaelise@ santafesprings.gov. Please submit your written comments by 12:00 p.m. on the day of the Planning Commission hearing. You may also contact the Community Development Department at (562) 868-0511 ext.7550. FURTHER INFORMATION on this item may be obtained from Alejandro De Loera, Associate Planner, via e-mail at: AlejandroDeLoera@santafesprings.gov or otherwise by phone at: (562) 868-0511 ext. 7358. Published at Los Cerritos Community News 1/16/26
ABC UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT NOTICE CALLING FOR BID NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the ABC Unified School District will receive up to but not later than 2:00 PM on the 24th day of February 2026 Bids for: ABC Bid # 1691 Hawaiian Elementary School Modernization All bids shall be made and presented on a form furnished by the District. Bids submitted shall conform to the terms and conditions stated on said form. Bids shall be received in the office of the Purchasing Department at 16700 Norwalk Blvd., Cerritos, CA 90703 and shall be opened and publicly read aloud at the above-stated time and place. There will be a mandatory jobwalk meeting on January 20, 2026 at 11:00 AM sharp at the front of Administration building at Hawaiian ES 12350 E 226th St. Hawaiian Gardens, CA 90716. To prequalify to bid, bidders and subcontractors with contractor license class of A, B, C-4, C-7C-10, C-16, C-20, C-34, C-36, C-38, C-42, C-43 or C-46 must submit Prequalification package no later than February 12, 2026 . Prequalification Package is available to enter and submit at the PQ Website https://pqbids.com/abc-usd-ab2031/ All public works are subject to prevailing wage payments, Valid License valid Class B Contractor's License and DIR Registration will be required. Los Cerritos News January 9, 2026 January 16, 2026 Published at Los Cerritos Community News 1/9 and 1/16/26
14 Los Cerritos Community News • January 16, 2026 NOTICE OF ADOPTED ORDINANCE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Cerritos City Council adopted Ordinance No. 1058, AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF CERRITOS AMENDING TITLE 2 OF THE CERRITOS MUNICIPAL CODE BY ADDING CHAPTER 2.14, ESTABLISHING A CITY CELEBRATIONS COMMITTEE. City Attorney Summary: In November 2025, the City Council directed the dissolution of the Let Freedom Ring Committee, and in its stead, the creation of the City Celebrations Committee, whose purpose is to provide guidance, logistics, and marketing for various City-sponsored community events, including but not limited to the Festival of Friendship, Halloween Festival, Let Freedom Ring celebration, Santa’s Sleigh Day at the CCPA, UbeFest, Spring Fling, and Water Lantern Festival. The adopted Ordinance formally establishes the City Celebrations Committee under Chapter 2.14, which provides for the following, among other things: (i) the number of commissioners will be ten members (with each council member nominating two members), (ii) eligibility includes being a Cerritos resident, (iii) the term will be for two (2) years, (iv) the Commission will meet every fourth Wednesday of January, March, May, June, and August, and the second Wednesday of December, (v) the stipend will be $25 per month, as established by resolution. The full text of this adopted Ordinance can be obtained at the Office of the City Clerk, 18125 Bloomfield Avenue, Cerritos, CA 90703. I, Cynthia Nava, City Clerk of the City of Cerritos, California, do hereby certify that the foregoing Ordinance No. 1058 was introduced for first reading on December 11, 2025. Thereafter, said Ordinance was duly approved and adopted at a regular meeting of the Cerritos City Council on January 12, 2026, by the following vote: AYES: Hong, Pulido, Tse, Johnson, Yokoyama; NOES: None. /s/Cynthia Nava, City Clerk Published at Los Cerritos Community News 1/16/26 NOTICE OF ADOPTED ORDINANCE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Cerritos City Council adopted Ordinance No. 1057, AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF CERRITOS AMENDING TITLE 2 OF THE CERRITOS MUNICIPAL CODE BY ADDING CHAPTER 2.17, ESTABLISHING A SENIOR SERVICES COMMISSION. City Attorney Summary: In November 2025, the City Council directed the creation of a Senior Services Commission, whose purpose is to support the City’s ongoing senior services and programming, such as recreational and educational classes, senior special events, and senior safety issues, among others. The adopted Ordinance formally establishes the Senior Services Commission under Chapter 2.17, which provides for the following, among other things: (i) the number of commissioners will be five members (with each council member nominating one member), (ii) eligibility includes being a Cerritos resident who is fifty years of age or older at the time of the appointment, (iii) the term will be for two (2) years, (iv) the Commission will meet every third Tuesday of January, March, May, July, September, and November, (v) the stipend will be $100 per month, as established by resolution. The full text of this adopted Ordinance can be obtained at the Office of the City Clerk, 18125 Bloomfield Avenue, Cerritos, CA 90703. I, Cynthia Nava, City Clerk of the City of Cerritos, California, do hereby certify that the foregoing Ordinance No. 1057 was introduced for first reading on December 11, 2025. Thereafter, said Ordinance was duly approved and adopted at a regular meeting of the Cerritos City Council on January 12, 2026, by the following vote: AYES: Hong, Pulido, Tse, Johnson, Yokoyama; NOES: None. /s/Cynthia Nava, City Clerk Published at Los Cerritos Community News 1/16/26 NOTICE OF ADOPTED ORDINANCE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Cerritos City Council adopted Ordinance No. 1055, AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF CERRITOS APPROVING DEVELOPMENT CODE AMENDMENT 2025-2, A REQUEST TO AMEND TITLE 22 OF THE CERRITOS MUNICIPAL CODE BY ADDING CHAPTER 22.55, AREA DEVELOPMENT PLAN TWENTY (ADP-20), TO ESTABLISH SPECIFIC DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS FOR THE USE OF PROPERTIES LOCATED AT 19011-19151 BLOOMFIELD AVENUE AND 12506-12544 SOUTH STREET FOR COMMERCIAL AND/OR RESIDENTIAL PURPOSES (APNS 7054-015-075, 7054-015-094, 7054-015-095, 7054-015-096, 7054015-097, 7054-015-098, 7054-015-099, 7054-015-100). *One Mitigated Negative Declaration was prepared in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) for Development Code Amendment 2025-2, General Plan Amendment 2025-2, and Development Map Amendment 2025-2. City Attorney Summary: This project consists of the rezoning of a site located at the southwest corner of Bloomfield Ave. and South St., which previously allowed for commercial uses only. The rezoning of the site to ADP-20 allows for continued commercial uses, but now also allows for low-/mediumdensity residential uses. This rezoning is in response to AB 2011. Without any rezoning, AB 2011 mandates that the City approve any eligible multi-family housing development (with some component of affordable housing) within any commercially-zoned property of less than twenty (20) acres along a major arterial street with densities ranging from twenty (20) to eighty (80) dwelling units per acre, with no parking requirements, and without any discretionary public hearings. By rezoning the site and establishing ADP-20, the City retains local control for any commercial or residential development, while also protecting surrounding uses by establishing development standards for density, building height, landscaping, parking requirements, and privacy screening. The full text of this adopted Ordinance can be obtained at the Office of the City Clerk, 18125 Bloomfield Avenue, Cerritos, CA 90703. I, Cynthia Nava, City Clerk of the City of Cerritos, California, do hereby certify that the foregoing Ordinance No. 1055 was introduced for first reading on December 11, 2025. Thereafter, said Ordinance was duly approved and adopted at a regular meeting of the Cerritos City Council on January 12, 2026, by the following vote: AYES: Hong, Pulido, Tse, Johnson, Yokoyama; NOES: None. /s/Cynthia Nava, City Clerk Published at Los Cerritos Community News 1/16/26 NOTICE OF LIEN SALE: NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned intends to sell the personal property described below to enforce a lien imposed on said property pursuant to Sections 21700–21716 of the CA Business and Professions Code, Section 2328 of CA Commercial Code, Sections 1812.600 –1812.609, Section 1988 of CA Civil Code and Section 535 of the CA Penal Code. The undersigned will be sold at a public auction conducted on www.storagetreasures.com ending on Monday, February 9,2026 at 10:00am. The personal property including: general household goods, electronics, tools, personal effects, and or miscellaneous items are stored at: Cerritos Self Storage, 16515 Valley View Ave., Cerritos, County of Los Angeles, State of California by the following:
NOTICE OF ADOPTED ORDINANCE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Cerritos City Council adopted Ordinance No. 1059, AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF CERRITOS AMENDING TITLE 2 OF THE CERRITOS MUNICIPAL CODE BY ADDING CHAPTER 2.13, TO MEMORIALIZE THE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE COMMUNITY SAFETY COMMITTEE WITHIN THE CERRITOS MUNICIPAL CODE. City Attorney Summary: As part of the City’s efforts to maintain consistency in the governance of all City advisory bodies, the City proposes to memorialize the scope of duties, membership, and organization of the existing Community Safety Committee, whose purpose is to advise on matters related to crime prevention, fire prevention, disaster and emergency preparedness, and traffic and pedestrian safety. The adopted Ordinance memorializes the existing Community Safety Committee under Chapter 2.13, which provides for the following, among other things: (i) the number of commissioners will be ten members (with each council member nominating two members), (ii) eligibility includes being a Cerritos resident, (iii) the term will be for two (2) years, (iv) the Commission will meet every third Wednesday of odd-numbered months, (v) the stipend will be $25 per month, as established by resolution. The full text of this adopted Ordinance can be obtained at the Office of the City Clerk, 18125 Bloomfield Avenue, Cerritos, CA 90703. I, Cynthia Nava, City Clerk of the City of Cerritos, California, do hereby certify that the foregoing Ordinance No. 1059 was introduced for first reading on December 11, 2025. Thereafter, said Ordinance was duly approved and adopted at a regular meeting of the Cerritos City Council on January 12, 2026, by the following vote: AYES: Hong, Pulido, Tse, Johnson, Yokoyama; NOES: None. /s/Cynthia Nava, City Clerk Published at Los Cerritos Community News 1/16/26
NOTICE OF ADOPTED ORDINANCE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Cerritos City Council adopted Ordinance No. 1056, AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF CERRITOS AMENDING THE CERRITOS DEVELOPMENT MAP BY CHANGING THE ZONE CLASSIFICATION OF APPROXIMATELY ±5.34 ACRES OF LAND, LOCATED AT 19011-19151 BLOOMFIELD AVENUE AND 12506-12544 SOUTH STREET, FROM NEIGHBORHOOD COMMERCIAL (CN) TO AREA DEVELOPMENT PLAN TWENTY (ADP-20). *One Mitigated Negative Declaration was prepared in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) for Development Code Amendment 2025-2, General Plan Amendment 2025-2, and Development Map Amendment 2025-2. City Attorney Summary: This project consists of the rezoning of a site located at the southwest corner of Bloomfield Ave. and South St., which previously allowed for commercial uses only. The rezoning of the site to ADP-20 allows for continued commercial uses, but now also allows for low-/mediumdensity residential uses. This rezoning is in response to AB 2011. Without any rezoning, AB 2011 mandates that the City approve any eligible multi-family housing development (with some component of affordable housing) within any commercially-zoned property of less than twenty (20) acres along a major arterial street with densities ranging from twenty (20) to eighty (80) dwelling units per acre, with no parking requirements, and without any discretionary public hearings. By rezoning the site and establishing ADP-20, the City retains local control for any commercial or residential development, while also protecting surrounding uses by establishing development standards for density, building height, landscaping, parking requirements, and privacy screening. The full text of this adopted Ordinance can be obtained at the Office of the City Clerk, 18125 Bloomfield Avenue, Cerritos, CA 90703. I, Cynthia Nava, City Clerk of the City of Cerritos, California, do hereby certify that the foregoing Ordinance No. 1056 was introduced for first reading on December 11, 2025. Thereafter, said Ordinance was duly approved and adopted at a regular meeting of the Cerritos City Council on January 12, 2026, by the following vote: AYES: Hong, Pulido, Tse, Johnson, Yokoyama; NOES: None. /s/Cynthia Nava, City Clerk Published at Los Cerritos Community News 1/16/26 NOTICE OF ADOPTED ORDINANCE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Cerritos City Council adopted Ordinance No. 1054, AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF CERRITOS APPROVING DEVELOPMENT MAP AMENDMENT 2025-1, AMENDING THE ZONING CLASSIFICATION OF THREE (3) SITES IDENTIFIED IN THE CITY’S 2021-2029 HOUSING ELEMENT TO AREA DEVELOPMENT PLAN EIGHTEEN (ADP-18), AREA DEVELOPMENT PLAN NINETEEN (ADP-19), AND AREA DEVELOPMENT PLAN TWENTY-ONE (ADP-21), RESPECTIVELY.* THE THREE (3) SITES REFERENCED HEREIN INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING: (i) SITE A: 20106 PIONEER BLVD., 20122 PIONEER BLVD., 20200 PIONEER BLVD., 20223 CABRILLO LN. (APNS 7055-017-020, 7055-017-010, 7055017-011, 7055-017-002) (ii) SITE 7: 14100 ARBOR PL., 14103 ARBOR PL., 14141 ARBOR PL., 14120 ARBOR PL., 14133 ARBOR PL., 16401 BERWYN RD., 16402 BERWYN RD., 16412 BERWYN RD., 16417 BERWYN RD., 16601 VALLEY VIEW AVE. (APNS 7003-013-903, 7003-013-016, 7003-013-011, 7003-013-003, 7003-013-022, 7003013-002, 7003-013-008, 7003-013-009, 7003-013-010, 7003-013-012, 7003-013-901, 7003-013-021, 7003-013-801, 7003-013-803, 7003-013-904) (iii) SITE B: 11238 183RD ST. (APN 7038-014-016) *Pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21080.085 and Section 15061(b)(3) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines, this project is statutorily and categorically exempt from CEQA review. City Attorney Summary: This project consists of the rezoning of three (3) sites listed in the City of Cerritos’ 2021-2029 Housing Element as Site A, Site 7, and Site B, as required by applicable State Housing Element law. Sites A, 7, and B were previously zoned for commercial/industrial uses only and did not allow for residential uses. The rezonings of these sites allow for continued commercial/industrial uses, but now also allow for residential uses in order to accommodate any future residential, mixed-income housing projects. This project implements Program 12 of the City’s Housing Element, the MultiFamily and Residential Mixed-Used Housing Facilitation Program. California Government Code Section 65583.4(a) requires the city to implement Program 12 by rezoning these sites that were previously not zoned for residential uses. The full text of this adopted Ordinance can be obtained at the Office of the City Clerk, 18125 Bloomfield Avenue, Cerritos, CA 90703. I, Cynthia Nava, City Clerk of the City of Cerritos, California, do hereby certify that the foregoing Ordinance No. 1054 was introduced for first reading on December 11, 2025. Thereafter, said Ordinance was duly approved and adopted at a regular meeting of the Cerritos City Council on January 12, 2026, by the following vote: AYES: Hong, Pulido, Tse, Johnson, Yokoyama; NOES: None. /s/Cynthia Nava, City Clerk Published at Los Cerritos Community News 1/16/26
Name Unit # Douglas Bloxham
F63
Purchases must be made in CASH ONLY and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Sale is subject to cancellation in the event of settlement between owner and obligated party. Self Storage Management Company Bond #: WLI1254152 Published at Los Cerritos Community News 1/16 and 1/23/26
ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CASE NO. 25NWCP00556 TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner Rebeca Jasmine Garcia filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Rebeca Jasmine Garcia to Rebeca Jasmine Garcia-Vega. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant a petition without a hearing. Court date March 13, 2026, at the SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES, 12720 NORWALK BLVD., NORWALK, CA 90650. A HEARING will be held MARCH 13, 2026 at 8:30 AM., DEPT. C, ROOM 312. Published at Los Cerritos Community Newspaper 12/19, 12/26, 1/2, 1/9/25
Los Cerritos Community News • Friday, January 16, 2026 15 ABC UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT NOTICE CALLING FOR BID NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the ABC Unified School District will receive up to but not later than 2:00 PM on the 25th day of February 2026 Bids for: ABC Bid # 1690 Willow Elementary School Modernization All bids shall be made and presented on a form furnished by the District. Bids submitted shall conform to the terms and conditions stated on said form. Bids shall be received in the office of the Purchasing Department at 16700 Norwalk Blvd., Cerritos, CA 90703 and shall be opened and publicly read aloud at the above-stated time and place. There will be a mandatory jobwalk meeting on January 20, 2026 at 9:00 AM sharp at the front of Administration building at Willow ES 11733 205th St., Lakewood CA 90715. To prequalify to bid, bidders and subcontractors with contractor license class of A, B, C-4, C-7C-10, C-16, C-20, C-34, C-36, C-38, C-42, C-43 or C-46 must submit Prequalification package no later than February 12, 2026 . Prequalification Package is available to enter and submit at the PQ Website https://pqbids.com/abc-usd-ab2031/ All public works are subject to prevailing wage payments, Valid License valid Class B Contractor’s License and DIR Registration will be required. Los Cerritos News January 9, 2026 January 16, 2026 Published at Los Cerritos Community News 1/9 and 1/16/26 NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF BOBBY LING JOE CASE NO. 25STPB10107 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors and persons who may otherwise be interested in the Will or estate, or both, of BOBBY LING JOE. A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by SUSAN JOE in the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles. THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that SUSAN JOE be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A HEARING on the petition will be held on March 13, 2026 at 8:30 a.m. in Dept. 11 Address of the Court: 111 North Hill Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012. BRANCH NAME: STANLEY MOSK COURTHOUSE If you object to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. If you are a creditor or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. You may examine the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code Section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Attorney for Petitioner Carlos V. Yguico GEMMILL, BALDRIDGE & YGUICO 815 Moraga Drive, Suite 303 Los Angeles, California 90049-1633 Cerritos Community News January 16, 2026, January 23, 2026, January 30, 2026
T.S. No.: 25-15805 Loan No.: ******4601 APN: 8038-036-016 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED 11/28/2005. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. A public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash, cashier’s check drawn on a state or national bank, check drawn by a state or federal credit union, or a check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, or savings association, or savings bank specified in Section 5102 of the Financial Code and authorized to do business in this state will be held by the duly appointed trustee as shown below, of all right, title, and interest conveyed to and now held by the trustee in the hereinafter described property under and pursuant to a Deed of Trust described below. The sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by the Deed of Trust, with interest and late charges thereon, as provided in the note(s), advances, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, interest thereon, fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee for the total amount (at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale) reasonably estimated to be set forth below. The amount may be greater on the day of sale. Trustor: ROLAND FERRER AND AURORA FERRER Duly Appointed Trustee: Prestige Default Services, LLC Recorded 12/6/2005 as Instrument No. 05 2975799 of Official Records in the office of the Recorder of Los Angeles County, California, Date of Sale: 2/9/2026 at 11:00 AM Place of Sale: Behind the fountain located in Civic Center Plaza, 400 Civic Center Plaza, Pomona, CA 91766 Amount of unpaid balance and other charges: $336,007.85 Street Address or other common designation of real property: 15676 OLIVE BRANCH DRIVE LA MIRADA, California 90638 A.P.N.: 8038-036-016 The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address or other common designation, if any, shown above. If no street address or other common designation is shown, directions to the location of the property may be obtained by sending a written request to the beneficiary within 10 days of the date of first publication of this Notice of Sale. NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS: If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself. Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder’s office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information. If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on the property. All checks payable to Prestige Default Services, LLC NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may call (949) 776-4697 or visit this Internet Website https://prestigepostandpub.com, using the file number assigned to this case 25-15805. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information or on the Internet Web site. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale. NOTICE TO TENANT: You may have a right to purchase this property after the trustee auction pursuant to Section 2924m of the California Civil Code. If you are an “eligible tenant buyer,” you can purchase the property if you match the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. If you are an “eligible bidder,” you may be able to purchase the property if you exceed the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. There are three steps to exercising this right of purchase. First, 48 hours after the date of the trustee sale, you can call (949) 776-4697, or visit this internet website https://prestigepostandpub.com, using the file number assigned to this case 25-15805 to find the date on which the trustee’s sale was held, the amount of the last and highest bid, and the address of the trustee. Second, you must send a written notice of intent to place a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 15 days after the trustee’s sale. Third, you must submit a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 45 days after the trustee’s sale. If you think you may qualify as an “eligible tenant buyer” or “eligible bidder,” you should consider contacting an attorney or appropriate real estate professional immediately for advice regarding this potential right to purchase. Date: 1/8/2026 Prestige Default Services, LLC 1920 Old Tustin Ave. Santa Ana, California 92705 Questions: 949-427-2010 Sale Line: (949) 776-4697 Martha Nuno, Senior Foreclosure Coordinator PPP #26-000202 1/19, 1/26, 1/30/26
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File Number 2025284244. THE FOLLOWING PERSON(S) IS (ARE) DOING BUSINESS AS: SOMATIC SLEUTH MASSAGE THERAPY 2263 N LAKEWOOD BLVD, LONG BEACH CA., 90815, LOS ANGELES COUNTY; Registered Owner:ALYSSA MARIA GRANT, 8431 HOLDER STREET, BUENA PARK, CA 90620. THIS BUSINESS IS CONDUCTED AS AN INDIVIDUAL. The date registrant started to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above: N/A. I declare that all the information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000).) /S/ SOMATIC SLEUTH MASSAGE THERAPY ; Owner; ALYSSA GRANT. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on 12/24/2025. In accordance with Subdivision (a) of Section 17920, a Fictitious Name Statement generally expires at the end of five years from the date on which it was filed in the of notice of the County Clerk, except, as provided in Subdivision (b) of Section 17920, where it expires 40 days after any change in the facts set forth in the statement pursuant to Section 17913 other than a change in the residence address of a registered owner. A new Fictitious Business Name Statement must be filed before the expiration. Effective January 1, 2014, the Fictitious Business Name Statement must be accompanied by the affidavit of identity form. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a Fictitious Business Name in violation of the rights of another under Federal, State or Common Law (see Section 14411 et seq., Business and Professions Code). LCCN 1/9, 1/16, 1/23, 1/30/26
LEGAL NOTICE CITY OF BELLFLOWER ORDINANCE NO. 1452 AN ORDINANCE ADDING § 2.04.080 TO THE BELLFLOWER MUNICIPAL CODE TO IMPLEMENT THE BELLFLOWER CITY CHARTER BY ESTABLISHING VOTING REQUIREMENTS FOR ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS, AND OTHER COUNCIL ACTIONS
The City Council of the City of Bellflower introduced Ordinance No. 1452 at its Regular Meeting of January 12, 2026. NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the City Council of the City of Artesia will hold a Public Hearing in the City Council Chambers of Artesia City Hall located at 18747 Clarkdale Avenue, Artesia, California at 6:00 pm on Monday, January 26, 2026, to consider the following: Project Description: Case No. 2025-31: The Planning Commission recommends that the City Council approve Ordinance No. 26-980, an amendment to the Mixed Use Overlay (MU-O) Zone. The ordinance would amend Artesia Municipal Code Sections 9-2.4801 through 9-2.4805 and Sections 9-2.4807 through 9-2.4809 to reduce the minimum required residential density from 70 dwelling units per acre to 40 dwelling units per acre; update development standards and requirements; revise Design Review procedures; and make minor revisions to permitted uses, definitions, and ordinance applicability. Project Location: Citywide Applicant: City of Artesia CEQA: The proposed Municipal Code amendments are exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption), as the amendments do not approve a specific development project and it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the amendments will have a significant effect on the environment. In addition, the City previously prepared and certified a Supplement to the City of Artesia General Plan 2030 Environmental Impact Report (State Clearinghouse No. 2010041003), which was adopted by the City Council on July 14, 2025, in connection with Ordinance No. 25-970, amending the Artesia Municipal Code to add Article 48 (Mixed-Use Overlay Zone). The proposed amendments are consistent with, and within the scope of, the analysis contained in the previously certified environmental document. Members from the public who would like to address the City Council may appear at the public hearing during the consideration of this item and state their opinion. If you have written comments that you wish to submit, please deliver them to the Artesia City Clerk’s Office, 18747 Clarkdale Avenue, Artesia, CA, or by email: planning@cityofartesia.us prior to the start of the public hearing. If you have questions about this notice or the proposed action, please contact the Artesia Community Development Department at (562) 865-6262 or by the email above. If you challenge any action related to this public hearing in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered at, or prior to, the public hearing. PUBLISHED: January 16, 2026 Paul Bollier, Community Development Director Phone: 562-865-6262 Ext. 200 or 224 Email: Planning@cityofartesia.us Published at Los Cerritos Community Newspaper 1/16/26
If adopted, Ordinance No. 1452 would add § 2.04.080 to the Bellflower Municipal Code (“BMC”) to codify voting requirements for City Council actions, including ordinances, resolutions, and motions, consistent with the Charter and applicable state law. The Ordinance is intended to clarify the default voting standard for City Council actions, a majority vote of Council Members present at a properly noticed meeting with a quorum, while expressly preserving any higher vote thresholds required by the Charter, the California Constitution, or state law of statewide concern. The Ordinance does not change any substantive voting requirements imposed by existing law, but instead provides clear, centralized guidance within the BMC regarding how Council actions are adopted. For a copy of Ordinance No. 1452, please contact the City Clerk’s Office at (562) 804 1424 or cclerk@bellflower.ca.gov. Approved as submitted above: Karl H. Berger, City Attorney ATTEST: Mayra Ochiqui, City Clerk Published at Los Cerritos Community Newspaper 1/16/26 ABC UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT NOTICE CALLING FOR BID NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the ABC Unified School District will receive up to but not later than 2:00 PM on the 13th day of February 2026 Bids for: ABC Bid # 1692 Intrusion and Access Control at Cerritos, Gahr and Whitney High Schools All bids shall be made and presented on a form furnished by the District. Bids submitted shall conform to the terms and conditions stated on said form. Bids shall be received in the office of the Purchasing Department at 16700 Norwalk Blvd., Cerritos, CA 90703 and shall be opened and publicly read aloud at the above-stated time and place. There will be a mandatory jobwalk meeting on January 26, 2026 at 9:00 AM sharp at the front of Administration building at Cerritos High School 12500 183rd St. Cerritos CA 90703. All public works are subject to prevailing wage payments, Valid License valid Class C-7 and/or C-10 Contractor’s License and DIR Registration will be required. Los Cerritos News January 16, 2026 January 23, 2026 Published at Los Cerritos Community News 1/16 and 1/23/26
PUZZLE SOLUTION: WELCOME
16 Los Cerritos Community News • January 16, 2026
DIRTY WATER from page 1 the JPA’s operational and procurement pipeline, effectively turning a public agency into a one-man operation. Part Two exposed how that private control collided directly with Garza’s elected authority at the Central Basin Municipal Water District, where he votes on water rates, infrastructure, and other decisions affecting the very cities that fund his JPA executive-director salary — including Hawaiian Gardens, a JPA member city located within his own Central Basin division. Part Three moved from conflicts to consequences. It examined the legal trigger created by Garza’s JPA arrangement and his contract renewal. Garza has served as Executive Director of the California Cities for Self-Reliance Joint Powers Authority since March 2020 and joined the Central
Basin Municipal Water District board in December 2020. Since taking office, he renewed his paid JPA employment contract while continuing to vote as a Central Basin director and as Central Basin’s delegate to the Metropolitan Water District. Part Four shifted the focus from Garza’s conduct to Central Basin’s response — or lack of one. Despite extensive reporting, public notice, and repeated questions, Central Basin leadership took no action to determine whether Government Code 1099 had been triggered, requested no independent legal review, and made no referral to an enforcement authority. Instead, the board continued operating as if the issue did not exist, even as votes, contracts, and major personnel decisions moved forward. Now comes the final installment, which focuses on what changes once the conflict is exposed, the board is on notice,
and decisions continue to be made. Under California law, once a board member has notice of an incompatible office and knowingly allows it to continue, the issue stops being a governance problem and becomes a matter of personal liability. Actions taken during that period can be challenged as legally void, and courts have treated those votes as unlawful exercises of authority. Every subsequent vote, contract, and decision taken during that period becomes a potential exhibit in court. What begins as a single conflict expands into a broader governance failure with personal consequences attached to each director who chose not to intervene. Contracts approved, public funds spent, and personnel decisions made during the incompatible period can be invalidated or unwound. When that happens, board members who knowingly
allowed the conflict to persist can be named personally in civil actions and sued for monetary damages or recovery of public funds. Public officials often believe they are automatically protected from being sued simply because they are doing their jobs. That is not true. Legal immunity generally protects officials only when they are making judgment calls in good faith — for example, choosing between policy options when the law is unclear. Once a director is clearly informed that a legal incompatibility exists — in this case, Garza’s incompatible office — and chooses to do nothing, that protection begins to erode. At that point, the decision is no longer a good-faith judgment call. It becomes a knowing choice to ignore a clear legal rule. The longer an official continues after receiving notice, the worse their position becomes. Time does not protect them — it works against them. Each meeting, vote, or decision taken after notice makes it harder to argue that they were simply exercising discretion rather than knowingly violating the law. A second consequence is exposure to taxpayer litigation. California law expressly authorizes taxpayers to sue to stop illegal government action and recover misspent funds. When evidence of incompatibility is public and documented, continued inaction strengthens the legal conclusion that directors acted knowingly rather than negligently. Even if damages are ultimately paid by the district, individual directors can still be responsible for attorneys’ fees and court costs, which routinely reach significant sums. The third consequence is enforcement scrutiny. The Attorney General has authority to initiate quo warranto proceedings to determine whether an official unlawfully holds office. When a board knowingly enables an incompatible office, that scrutiny does not necessarily stop with the conflicted director. The conduct of directors who permitted the situation to continue can also be examined. Separately, the Fair Political Practices Commission retains authority to pursue civil penalties for conflict-related violations, including fines assessed personally rather than against the agency. This is why director-initiated investigations matter. Calling for an investigation is not an accusation; it is a legal firewall. A director who acts after notice can credibly show an effort to protect the district and comply with the law. A director who blocks, delays, or ignores the issue forfeits that protection. At Central Basin, that divide is now clear. The board majority, consisting of President Nem Ochoa, Vice President Gary Mendez, Director Joanna Moreno, and Director Juan Garza have taken no action following LCCN’s reporting, despite public notice and repeated warnings about the legal consequences of inaction. By contrast, Directors Art Chacon, Jim Crawford, and Leticia Vasquez have openly raised concerns and called for the issue to be addressed. That distinction matters. Under California law, liability follows notice and inaction. The record now reflects who acted after notice and who did not. That difference is not political. It is legal. This investigation remains ongoing. Los Cerritos Community News will continue reporting as enforcement authorities, courts, or the district itself respond to the issues now firmly on the public record.