City of Commerce January 2017 RTTP

INSIDE Page 2
•Council Actions
Page 3
•Election Information •Veterans Day
I
Program for a limited time.
Page 4
City Offering Security Camera Rebates and Discounts
•Library News •Aguascalientes Trip
n an effort to provide residents with personal home security systems, the City of Commerce is offering the Home Security Camera Rebate (HSCR)
place it for free.
Residents can visit Ring.com and enter promo code Commerce99 for
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mation on the Ring.com discount, email [email protected].
•Planning Commission •Turkey Trot
Applications are available on a first come, first served basis at the Public Safety and Community Services Department in City Hall. Rebates are limited due to availability of funds.
The friendly City Staff in the Public Safety and Community Services Department are more than happy to help residents with the security camera rebate program process.
The HSCR Program consists of a one-time reimbursement of up to $500 per household for the purchase and installation of home security cameras. The home security rebate program enables residents to obtain advanced security systems that will provide more compressive home surveillance. The program will also promote neighborhood safety by providing multiple sources of record- ing criminal behavior and widespread use of camera security technology could suppress neighborhood crime.
the discount on a state of the art video doorbell system.
For more information on the HSRC program, contact the Public Safety and Community Services Department at (323) 887-4460. For more infor-
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•ELA Xmas Parade •Dia de los Muertos
Applicants must be current residents of Commerce and must provide a valid Commerce Resident Activity Card. They must also provide a proof of pur- chase for the purchase and installation of the security camera system within 30 days of the application.
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Once the system is installed, a home installation inspection must be sched- uled. Upon approval from the City, recipients will receive a reimbursement of up to $500. Applicants will also be required to fill out a W9 for City auditing purposes.
•Woman of the Year Nominations
Commerce residents not applying for the HSCR program can get $100 off Ring.com high definition video doorbells. The video system available through Ring.com offers home security to residents at a low cost and enables resi- dents to monitor their homes remotely from a smartphone, tablet, or com- puter.
Si le interesa recibir un artículo en español, por favor llama a la Oficina de Información Pública al (323) 722-4805 ext 4453. Indica el título del artículo, la fecha y su domicillio o correo electrónico.
The Ring.com system has built-in motion sensors that detect any activity on your property and trigger instant mobile alerts. The system will also notify you when someone is on your property and lets you see and speak with anyone at your front door, all from your own mobile phone. In addition, Ring.com pro- vides lifetime purchase protection: If your doorbell gets stolen, they will re-
Commerce residents are eligible for a $100 discount on Ring.com video doorbell systems as well as other Ring.com video security systems.


HCITY ADMINISTRATOR
From The Desk of Jorge Rifa
appy New Year Commerce! I hope you all enjoyed a wonderful holiday season with your loved ones. 2016 was a year of much progress, which will
continue onto 2017. As we enter the New Year, let us look forward to new changes and new beginnings for our City. Together we will continue to move the community forward. I also wish a wonderful 2017 for our community.
This past year, the City has made significant progress investing in our infrastructure. We’ve completed projects such as the Eastern Avenue Resurfacing Project, the Metrolink Station enhancements and upgrades to the Teen Center and Camp Commerce. Major progress has already been made on the Washington Boulevard Widening Project and is expected to be completed in Spring. We are looking forward to completing and be- ginning projects in 2017, beginning with advocating for the Gold Line extension to pass through and have a sta- tion stop here in the City of Commerce. The Gold Line Washington Boulevard extension to the Whittier com- munity will provide local ridership from Whittier to Com- merce to East Los Angeles an opportunity to use light rail alternatives to the freeway for a significant number of rid- ership choices linking destinations around education, healthcare, employment, shopping, housing, culture and entertainment. With the new regional connector in place, the ride from Whittier through Commerce to Santa Mon- ica will be one seat all the way. We will update you on this potential project in the upcoming months.
As of time of printing, 36 people were killed in a tragic fire in an Oakland warehouse during an electronic dance music concert. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and their families. This incident brings forward the issue of unpermitted housing here in Los Angeles County. Our City currently has a number of unmain- tained or unoccupied buildings which have been used as venues for similar events. The City will be looking closer at ways in which we can prevent such tragic incidents from happening here in Commerce. In the meantime, we discourage residents, businesses and others from conducting unauthorized events in unoccupied spaces for the foreseeable future.
Remember City Hall and Libraries will be closed on January 2 in observance of New Year’s Day and on Jan- uary 16 in commemoration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. On behalf of the City Council I want to wish everyone a happy and successful 2017 as the City embarks on an- other twelve months of providing quality services to the Commerce community.
Sincerely,
Published Monthly and Mailed to Commerce Residents
Deputy City Administrator Fernando Mendoza
Graphics Design
October 22.
Approved the bid package for the Citywide Bus Shelter Beautification Project
Approved a request for quote for Professional Writing, Lay- out and Design, and Publishing Services for the City of Com- merce History Book.
Approved an Agreement with Ring.com, Rebate Program for Home Security and Funding of Automated License Plate Readers
Approved an agreement for former Specific Plating site lo- cated at 1350 South Eastern Ave.
Continued an item changing the Sheriff's Contract. Approved the Rosewood Park School Traffic Calming Im- plementation Plan.
Approved the Commerce Water System CIP Improvements for Station 5, Pacific Drive Water Main and Well 3E Destruc- tion.
Continued item changing contract with West Coast Arborist for Slauson Boulevard Improvements.
Approved combining the Senior Center and Library Plaza Improvement Projects into one project.
Authorized MIG Planning and Environmental Management Services to proceed with Phase One of the Green Zone Ac- tion Plan.
Approved an agreement with Network Management Corp for IT Supplemental Services.
Authorized staff to begin a Utility Box Art Pilot Beautification Program.
Made appointments to Committee and Commissions.
Editing/Writing:
PIO Staff:
Daniel Larios Marie Hovik
Edward Torres Adriana Torres Darryl Leyden Joe Sandoval
Please call (323) 887-4453 Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. or visit us online at ci.commerce.ca.us.
Anthony Aguilar
CITY OF COMMERCE COUNCIL ACTIONS
Regular Meeting of December 6 Recognized the Commerce Casino for hosting the Com-
Approved a reorganization of the Parks and Recreation De- partment.
Approved an agreement with California Water Service Com- pany to design, permit, and manage construction of a new drinking water well at the area known as Commerce Station 7.
merce Community Clippers Night.
Recognize Pedro Aceituno, Phillip Hawkins and Leticia Vasquez, for Being Elected/Reelected to the Central Basin Municipal Water District Board.
Approved the American Cancer Society’s use of the Vet- erans Memorial Park Stadium for the Relay for Life Com- merce and waiving all fees associated with this event. Called and gave notice of General Municipal Election for June 6, 2017, requesting Board of Supervisors to render specified services and candidate statement requirements. Revised personnel classification and compensation plan adding new classification specifications and setting the salary level for Administrative Intern.
Revised Sick and Vacation Leave Conversion Policy. Approved an Agreement with ICMA Retirement Corpora- tion establishing a 401(A) Money Purchase Plan. Approved the first reading of an amendment to the Com- merce Municipal Code to adopt the building standards codes of the Los Angeles County Building Code. Approved a construction contract for Citywide Bus Shelter Beautification Project to Polychrome Construction, Inc. Approved an agreement with Vision Internet for the City of Commerce redesign, implementation, migration, mainte- nance and support of the City website.
Received and filed a staff report on the proposed Fergu- son Drive railroad sound wall project.
Approved the addition of two Community Services Assis- tant Posts to be located at Bandini Elementary School and at Rosewood Elementary School.
Rescinded an agreement with Rio Hondo Community Col- lege District and approved a corrected agreement to pro- vide training for the City of Commerce Urban Search & Rescue Team.
Nominated a representative to vote for a Council-recom- mended appointment to the LA Metro Board to serve as rep- resentative for the Gateway Cities Council of Governments
Continued an item concerning a contract with Graphic So- lutions to perform design services for the Citywide Wayfind- ing and Brand Image program.
Made appointments to Committee and Commissions.
Regular Meeting of November 1
Recognized Evelyn Gutierrez as Employee of the Quarter for July-September 2016.
Regular Meeting of November 15 Recognized Jason Stinnett for his heroic actions in helping
Approved for first reading an ordinance to impose conditions on the establishment of new office space uses.
Received and filed a written report describing the morato- rium on certain land uses.
save a life after a car accident.
Received and filed a presentation on the proposed Metro Gold Line Eastside Extension Light Rail Project. Approved a funding extension for the Washington Blvd. Widening and Reconstruction Project to February 28, 2018. Accepted the irrevocable right-of-way easement for street dedications for the real property fronting 6009-6041 Malt Avenue.
Approved a resolution to subordinate the Regulatory Agreement, Deed of Trust and Promissory Note previously entered between the former Redevelopment Agency and Daniel Escobar and Myrna Garcia Escobar for the property located at 5644 Pueblo Court.
Approved an amended Conflict of Interest Code for the City of Commerce.
Approved a temporary street closure on Goodrich Blvd for the 2016 East Los Angeles Christmas Parade. Continued a Letter of Agreement with the City of Com- merce Employees Association authorizing revisions to City Personnel Policies and changes to the fringe benefits pack- age.
Continued a revision to the Sick and Vacation Leave Con- version Policy.
Established the salary level for the full time classifications of Information Technology Technician and Permit Techni- cian.
Approved an ordinance to impose conditions on the es- tablishment of new office space uses.
Approved an ordinance to increase the penalty for street racing from $500 to $1,000.
Approved an ordinance extending the moratorium on new office space uses.
Received and filed a presentation on Sheriff’s Deploy- ment.a presentation on the plans for the Citadel Black Fri- day event.
Received and filed a report regarding viable use of fiscal year 2015-2016 General Fund surplus funds.
Approved an Emergency Ordinance changing the munici- pal election date to June 2017.
Received and filed a report regarding studies in connection with the moratorium on office uses in the M-2 zone. Approved for first reading an ordinance to increase the penalty for street racing from $500 to $1,000.
Made a delegate appointment to the LA County Vector Con- trol District.
Authorized a Change Order to Contract with West Coast Ar- borists for the Slauson Avenue Improvements.
Regular Meeting of October 18
Recognized the City of Aguascalientes 441st Anniversary on
2 • January 2017 • Report to the People


City Honors Veterans During
the Veterans Day Ceremony
TVeterans from the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force and Coast Guard were honored for their sacrifice and dedication to our country.
he Commerce community honored our Nation’s veter- ans and active duty members of the United States Armed Forces at the City’s Annual Veterans Day Cel-
Veterans from each of the military’s five branches, the Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps and Navy, took part in the Processional Veterans Day March. Each group of vet- erans was led by members of Girl Scout Troop #13591 hold- ing flags representing each branch.
ebration on November 11 at Veterans Memorial Park.
The program began with Master of Ceremonies Marcus En- riquez introducing City officials and local dignitaries, includ- ing Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard. Miss Commerce Jazmin Diaz led attendees with the Pledge of Allegiance fol- lowed by a stirring rendition of the National Anthem by singer Isaac Robinson Smith. Girl Scout Troop #13591 made the
The City Council presented veterans and active duty mem- bers of the five branches of military service with gifts to honor their sacrifice and service to their country.
presentation of colors.
Veteran and event Keynote Speaker Lance Corporal Tim
Also honored was Commerceʼs oldest resident military vet- eran, 99 year-old Angel Aguanto of the US Army. The oldest non-resident military veteran honored was 68 year-old An- drew Gudera of the US Navy.
Owens, a Marine veteran and entrepreneur, discussed his experience in the military and the challenges facing veter- ans and the hardships that many face when returning from service.
The ceremony was followed by lunch. The City would like to thank the Third Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company from the US Marine Corps for providing the military static display. Most of all, thank you to our veterans.
“When I was in Okinawa, Japan, I was protecting an ar- mory, from midnight to 4 am, during a typhoon, and I never felt more alone in my life” said Owens. “I thought ‘does any- one know I’m here and does anybody really care?’ And I think that is sometimes what our veterans feel and it’s a ter- rible feeling, which is why we have events like this, to show that every veteran matters, because they do.”
Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard also spoke to the crowd.
“Throughout our country, there are countless American families, including mine, who have rich traditions of military service,” said the Congresswoman. “We must honor the promises made to all our veterans and their families. You represent the very best of America.”
Afterwards, a moment of silence was observed for mem- bers of the military that are considered Missing in Action and/or Prisoners of War.
Miss Commerce with Commerce resident and Army veteran Sharon Rowe, a role model for young women all over the City of Commerce.
MTiss Commerce and Young Man of the Year Applications Available
he 57th Annual Miss Commerce Pageant will take place tee selects an individual based on academic and leadership on Saturday, March 11 at the Commerce Hotel and abilities as well as a 200 word essay. The winning essay will Casino. Commerce Residents ages 16-21 may submit be read on stage but does not guarantee a place on the
an application for Miss Commerce beginning January 3 Royal Court.
through 27.
Applicants for the Miss Commerce Pageant must provide a
The Young Man of the Year (YMOY) 2017 will also be named at the Miss Commerce Pageant. As the Miss Com- merce Pageant recognizes our excellent young women in Commerce, the YMOY was established to recognize out- standing young men in the community. The YMOY 2017, Miss Commerce 2017 and her Royal Court will serve throughout the year as Ambassadors for the City.
birth certificate, a current Resident’s Activity card, and a gov- ernment issued ID card with the application. Also, high school participants must provide their official school GPA.
Additional rules and regulations can be found on the official applications available in City Hall. Applications will be ac- cepted on a first come, first served basis at the City’s De- partment of Parks and Recreation in City Hall Monday-Friday during regular business hours. All participants must attend a mandatory orientation meeting on Tuesday, January 31 and photo session on Thursday, February 2.
Requirements are similar to the Miss Commerce Pageant and can be found on the official application. Applicants are required to attend a mandatory photo session on Thursday, January 31 at 5:30 p.m. and must be available for an inter- view on Saturday, February 4 and/or Tuesday, February 7.
The Pageant Steering Committee Scholarship Award will also be given that evening. The Commerce Hotel and Casino provides the funds for the $500 scholarship and the commit-
For more information, call the City’s Parks and Recreation Department at (323) 722-4805, ext. 2222.
Nomination Period for City Election
n June 6, 2017, the City of Commerce will hold a General Municipal Election to elect three Councilmembers for four year terms.
OT
he City election was originally scheduled for the March 7, 2017. However, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors also scheduled a Countywide Special
Election on March 7. Having two separate elections on the same day could result in unnecessary voter confusion and fatigue. Voters would receive two separate ballots (one from the County and one from the City) and could potentially be required to go to two separate polling places on Election Day. All cities that were scheduled to hold their election on March 7 are similarly affected.
In order to avoid the confusion of two separate elections on the same day, the Commerce City Council had decided to move the City election to April 11, 2017. However, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors unexpectedly failed to approve City’s request. As a result, the City had to explore other dates for the City’s election. The next closest legally established date for the election was June 6, 2017. There- fore, on November 15, 2016, the City Council adopted Ordi- nance # 684, which approved the scheduling of the City’s election for June 6.
UPCOMING ELECTIONS:
March 7, 2017
Los Angeles County Special Election (Ballot Measure)
June 6, 2017
City of Commerce
Election to elect three councilmembers.
The nomination period for city councilmembers will begin February 13, 2017, and will close on March 10, 2017.
Nomination papers are available from the City Clerk’s Of- fice between the hours of 8 a.m. and 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. Please contact the City Clerk’s Office at (323) 722- 4805 or visit the City’s website www.commerce.ca.us-City- ClerkDepartment/Elections for additional information.
Voters qualify for registration by being a U.S. citizen, 18 years or older, a resident of Commerce, and neither in prison nor on parole for a felony conviction. Re-registration is re- quired if someone has moved since last registration, changed a name or changed a political party affiliation.
The registration deadline is 15 days before an election. Voter Registration forms are available in the City of Com- merce City Clerk's Office, Los Angeles Register and Recorder Offices and most public buildings including the Department of Motor Vehicles offices, post offices, etc.
Voter Registration forms can be downloaded in English or Spanish by visiting registertovote.ca.gov/
For more information, contact the City Clerk’s office at (323) 722-4805 or visit the City’s website www.com- merce.ca.us and click on the “Election Information” button on the City’s Homepage.
Report to the People • January 2017 • 3


This month, we’re featuring three Young Adult novel authors:
Julie Buxbaum is a former lawyer and graduate of Harvard Law School. She lives with her husband, two young chil- dren, and an immortal goldfish. Tell Me Three Things is her New York Times bestselling, young adult fiction debut.
Tell Me Three Things: When Jessie’s fa- ther remarries, she’s forced to move to Los Angeles and adjust to a new family and a new school. When she’s just about given up, she receives an anonymous message from someone claiming to want to help her adjust to her new high school. Jessie be- gins to trust and rely on her new friend, but can’t help but wonder who it is. Are some
mysteries better left unsolved?
Charlotte Huang is a graduate of Smith College and re- ceived an MBA from Columbia Business School, which is clearly something every aspiring writer should do. When not glued to her computer, she cheers her two sons on at sport- ing events and sometimes manages to stay up late enough to check out bands with her music agent husband.
For the Record: What happens when you get voted off a TV talent show? Chelsea’s not looking forward to finding out. But a phone call changes everything and she becomes the lead singer of the band Mel- bourne. But the band barely tolerates her and if she fails to win them over, she’ll be dying a slow death in Michigan for her senior year.
John Corey Whaley is an award winning author. He started writing stories about aliens and underwater civilizations when he was around ten or eleven, but now writes realistic YA fiction (which sometimes includes zombies).
Highly Illogical Behavior: Solomon is a six- teen-year-old agoraphobe, who hasn’t ven- tured outside his house in three years. Although Solomon may be content with his life, Lisa believes that if she can “fix” him, she can prove herself worthy for a spot in the second-best psychology program for college. But will her efforts ultimately cre- ate a friendship or destroy one?
Library Programs:
January 3 – 11 a.m. Hecho a Mano @ Rosewood Library January 4 – 6 p.m. Hecho a Mano @ Rosewood Library January 5 – 5:30 p.m. Hecho a Mano @ Veterans Library January 11 – 6 p.m. Hecho a Mano @ Bristow Library January 19 – 5:30 p.m. Hecho a Mano @ Bandini Library
January 23 – 5:30 p.m. Database Fair
(Learn another language with Mango) @ Rosewood Library
January 24 – 5:30 p.m. Database Fair
(Learn another language with Mango) @ Bandini Library
January 25 – 5:30 p.m. Database Fair
(Learn another language with Mango) @ Veterans Library
January 26 – 5:30 p.m. Database Fair
(Learn another language with Mango) @ Bristow Library
AI Trip to Aguascalientes
Young Man of the Year Mark Jimenez, several youth ambassadors, and members of the Sister City committee. It was a once in a lifetime experience
with a “Hola! me llamo Mark. Soy el joven del año.” They asked me “porque eres el joven del año?” I stood there think- ing of what I wanted to say, but couldn’t find the words. The first thing that came out of my mouth was “porque estoy
and by far one of the most memorable in my life. While we were there during the
guapo” which made them laugh. Throughout the whole trip, I was known by our hosts as “el guapo.” As the days pro- gressed, my Spanish improved with the assistance of Beatriz Sarmiento (the Director of Li- brary Services), Miss Com- merce Jazmin Diaz and her wonderful family. By the end of the trip, I was able to speak in front of a group without feeling anxious.
celebration of the City’s 441st anniversary of its founding, we also had the pleasure of visiting many different orphanages and retirement homes and met many wonderful and generous people.
By 2016 Miss Com-
By 2016 YMOY Mark Jimenez
merce Jazmin Diaz
From the beautiful rich culture to the friendly people, Aguascalientes is a place I will never forget. My experience as a young ambassador on this trip was worrisome at first only because I am not a fluent Spanish speaker. Communi-
n October of 2016, I was
fortunate enough to visit
the City of Commerce’s
sister city of Aguascalientes, cating in Spanish was a great obstacle. For example, when
Mexico with the City’s Mayor, our delegation first landed, I introduced myself to our hosts
4 • January 2017 • Report to the People
In addition to the content published in the Report to the Peo- ple, the new online format contains easy to use one click links
The first place we visited was
Asilo en Villa Juarez, which gave
us the humbling opportunity to
interact with the City’s elders
and see firsthand the love and
care the sisters give them. It was
one of the most heartfelt experi-
ences I have ever had. We also
had the opportunity to visit a chil-
dren’s orphanage called the Or-
fanatario de la Madre Jacinta.
As we walked in, the children
were ecstatic to see “La Reina”
and were even more excited
about the washable tattoos and
candy we surprised them with.
Seeing the smile on their faces
was most definitely an eye opener and empowered me to get involved to make a difference for those children.
During our stay in Aguas- calientes, we visited an orphan- age, an elderly home and a home that housed both the eld- erly and orphans. Before visit- ing these places, we purchased toys and flowers to take as gifts. El Cuidad de los Ninos left the
We also visited El Cuidad de los Ninos, which is a com- bined shelter and orphanage. Since it was the last place we went to visit, we decided to buy presents for the children and carnations for the older residents. It amazed me to see that such a small gesture can truly make people smile. My heart was full with so much joy. In addition, we gave the little girls makeup purses and the little boys soccer balls. Being able to watch the way these kids live without families was in fact heartbreaking, but to see that there are services that take these kids in and treat them as if they were their own is in- spiring, because they give these children a place to call home.
had no idea what we had brought for them, they simply wanted our attention and friendship. It really got to me when we gave the children the gifts we had purchased because they were so joyful and appreciative. Some of the children played volleyball, others played catch and basketball. I couldn’t quite believe how such a small object can put such a big smile on so many faces. When we visited the elderly, they were equally as excited to meet us and wanted the same thing the children wanted: companionship and friend- ship. They were eager to speak to anyone who would listen and share their stories about their lives.
Along with the many visits we made, we also had the honor of attending Aguascalientes’ 441st anniversary to celebrate the birth of this beautiful Mexican state. Following the cere- mony, we were invited to a dinner with the mayor of Aguas- calientes which gave us the opportunity to interact with him and thank him for his hospitality.
The places we visited opened my eyes and helped me re- alize how many things in life are taken for granted. I am grateful for my family and friends. I am thankful for the Pres- ident of the Sister City Association Damaris Gonzalez, mem- bers of the Club, Patty and Jorge. I am also thankful for Beatriz, Miss Commerce Jazmin Diaz and her wonderful family who were by my side helping me improve my Span- ish. Lastly, I am extremely thankful to City Staff members Tina Fierro, Robert Lipton, Adolfo Marquez and the Com- merce City Council, for allowing me to participate in such a life changing trip. The trip was an unforgettable experience that I will always cherish.
Overall, the trip I took to Aguascalientes was by far amaz- ing and exceeded my expectations. Learning their history and culture and being able to experience it has truly been re- warding. This trip empowered me to become involved and
Commerce residents can get involved by joining the Com- merce Sister City Association. The group meets every 3rd Monday of each month at Bandini Community Center at 7 p.m.
see the value of what I take for granted.
The City of Commerce’s award winning community newsletter, the Report to the People, is now available to read online in a new, interactive flip book format ac- cessed on any smartphone, tablet or computer.
to Flickr photo albums, additional informational material and videos.
Miss Commerce Jazmin Diaz and Young Man of the Year Mark Jimenez joined members of the Sister City Association dele- gation on their trip to Aguascalientes, Mexico.
biggest impression on my heart. I remember how excited the children were when we arrived. They were full of energy and
New Flipbook Format
To view recent online issues of the Report to the People, visit www.ci.commerce.ca.us and click on the “Report to the Peo- ple” button under Popular Links.
The first issue of the Report to the People, consisting of a two-page mimeographed letter on green paper, was published in February 1960, one month after the City’s In- corporation. Since then, the Report to the People has evolved into an eight-page magazine that has become a reliable vehicle for the City’s Public Information Office to disseminate information on City programs
and highlight achievements made by
Commerce residents.
“This new online flipbook will give residents a far more en- gaging and interactive experience reading the Report to the People, a publication that has been around for more than 56 years providing valuable information to the Commerce com- munity,” said Media Specialist Daniel Larios.
For more information on the Report to the People or to submit an idea for an ar- ticle, call the Public Information Office at
Library News
Library Book Reviews


Land use and development is a major part of strength- ening the Commerce community and addresses major issues important to members of the Community, such as housing, economic growth and recreation. The Planning Division provides
“Being in this position allows me to be a voice on behalf of the community and have an active role on how the City will develop, while providing a unique perspective to our Plan- ning staff,” said Vice Chairperson Ernesto Gonzalez. “We
Planning Commission
information re- garding zoning and develop- ment and re- views all residential, com- mercial, and in- dustrial development proposals to en- sure compliance with the Com- merce Municipal Code.
have the respon- sibility to our community and future genera- tions to make the soundest decisions and have the fore- sightoftheshort and longterm implications of development on our community.”
The division is
responsible for
regulating the type,
scale and land use
that may be estab-
lished at a given location in the City. The division uses the City’s General Plan and Municipal Code to regulate land uses for compatibility with surrounding uses. The Commerce Municipal Code and the General Plan set forth polices and standards which provide a framework for managing the City’s physical and economic resources. Development stan- dards are included for items such as density, height, yards and open space, parking and landscaping.
Matthew Mar- quez, the Deputy Director of Development
Members of the Planning Commission include: (from l. to r.) Chairperson Julissa Altami- rano, Vice Chairperson Ernesto Gonzalez, Commissioner Nancy Barragan, Commissioner Mike Alvarado and Commissioner John Diaz
Besides administering the General Plan and Municipal Code, the division advises the Planning Commission and City Council on land use and development projects and pol- icy. Staff coordinates public hearings for projects that require discretionary review (conditional use permit, variance, etc). Planning is also responsible for assisting the public at the Planning counter in City Hall as well as assisting with the City’s permit process.
The Commerce City Council appoints several Commis- sions and Committees to advise on issues related to spe- cific topics. These community-based commissions play a vital role in bringing transparency, change, and growth to the City of Commerce. These commissions and committees serve to represent the community and make policy recom- mendations to the City Council as well as performing other important functions.
The Planning Commission provides policy recommenda- tions to the Council regarding future growth, development and beautification of the City of Commerce with respect to its public and private buildings, streets, parks, grounds and va- cant lots.
Residents interested in serving on a particular commis- sion, committee or board should complete an “Application for Appointment” and submit it to the City Clerk’s Office via email at [email protected], fax (323) 726-6231 or in person at City Hall. The applications are accepted on a continuous basis and are retained in the active file for two years.
The group consists of five residents appointed by each member of the Commerce City Council, with a chairperson
For more information, please contact the City Clerk’s office at (323) 722-4805, ext. 2342.
and vice chairperson chosen amongst the coT
mmissioners.
Commission does not have the authority to oversee day-to- day operations, create policy or order staff.
The Planning Commission meets every fourth Wednesday of each month at the Council Chambers at 6:30 p.m. Com- mission meetings are open to the public, with a public com- ment period at the beginning.
Turkey Trot Highlights
Services, serves as the staff liaison for the group. The
he 2016 Turkey Trot drew participants from all over the City who ran or walked the 5 kilometer (approximately 3.2 miles) course in the Rosewood Park neighborhood of the City.
This year’s top runners were Rosario Acero the first place finisher in the female division who finished with a time of 22 minutes and 58 seconds and Matthew Sanchez the first place finisher in the male division with a time of 17 minutes and 42 seconds. Congrats also to our oldest male runner, 82- year-old Raymond Torres and oldest female runner, 79-year-old Martha Tor- res, both of whom finished in first place for their respective 71 and older
Divisions. This annual event serves as a fun experience for children, adults and families, as well as amateur runners who utilize it as an opportunity to tune up or get in shape for competitive runs held in the fall.
Hundreds of residents gathered in front of Commerce City Hall to kick off the holiday season enjoying at the City’s Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on Monday, December 5, enjoying the evening with churros, hot choco- late, entertainment and holiday cheer.
Entertainment was presented by “Unplugged,” the per- forming arts troupe from the Commerce Teen Center, which sang a song from their live December performance of “Fame
Jr.”The City’s Assistant Director of Parks and Recreation Adolfo Marquez served as the event’s master of ceremonies and introduced City officials along with the Girl Scout Troop, which performed the Presentation of Colors. Following the National Anthem, Miss Commerce 2016 Jazmin Diaz and Young Man of the Year Mark Jimenez shared their warmest holiday wishes to the adoring crowd.
The evening’s theme was “Toy Story,” with a giant Buzz Lightyear and Jessie joining the stage alongside special guest, Santa Claus, who traveled all the way from the North Pole on a scooter just to celebrate with the Commerce com- munity. Santa got the party started and pumped up the crowd by dropping some sick beats and dancing with the toys in front of the cheering crowd.
Santa wished the crowd a Merry Christmas and happy hol- idays. Old Saint Nick then brought the City Council on stage and presented the mayor with Buzz Lightyear’s ray gun to light of the 40 foot Christmas tree. Before the lighting, the entire crowd participated in a Mannequin challenge, a viral Internet trend where people remain frozen in action like man- nequins while video is recorded. The entire Commerce com- munity stood still for 30 seconds for an amazing video experience
As the council counted down to the lighting, a hushed si- lence fell over the crowd, followed by applause when the tree was lit with bright lights reflecting on sparkling decorations.
The appreciative crowd cheered with warm churros in hand, as the entertainment continued. Performances by the City’s Tap and Ballet, Folkloricó and Recreation Jazz dance programs rounded out the celebration.
The 2016 Commerce Employees Choir also performed classic holiday songs that brought smiles and laughter to the audience, such as the Chipmunk’s “Christmas Don’t Be Late” and “I Want a Hippopotamus For Christmas.” The Em- ployees Choir was led by Michael Pyles, professional record- ing artist, who works in City Hall for the Los Angeles County Environmental Program Division as a Senior Environmental Engineer assigned to Commerce.
The Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony was organized by the Department of Parks and Recreation under the supervision of Parks and Recreation Director Robert Lipton.
Report to the People • January 2017 • 5
City Gets the Holiday Spirit
Department of Parks & Recreation


CITY RESIDENT BECOMES HERO EAST LOS ANGELES CHRISTMAS PARADE IS BACK!!
Former Commerce employee and longtime resident Jason Stinnett was honored by the City Coun- Miss Commerce and Court wave to an adoring crowd from atop their float at the East LA Christmas Parade,
cil for his part in helping save a trapped man from a burning truck on the I-5 Freeway.
which drew a record 70,000 attendees.
DIA DE LOS MUERTOS
The City’s facilities maitnenance staff worked in the early hours of the morning to give the Bristow Park Boxing Gym some much needed TLC.
The City’s facilities maitnenance staff worked in the early hours of the morning to give the Bristow Park Boxing Gym some much needed TLC.
Miss Commerce Jazmin Diaz and the Royal Court helped celebrate Dia de los Muertos at Bristow Park by placing items on the altar commemorating loved ones who have passed away.
CHRISTMAS IN BRISTOW PARK HALLOWEEN CLIPPERS NIGHT
The City’s facilities maitnenance staff worked in the early hours of the morning to give the Bristow Park Boxing Gym some much needed TLC.
Miss Clippers Melissa Avila-Briones was featured during the Clippers pre- game introductions at center court. Dozens of Commerce residents joined Miss Clippers and the City Council at the game.
The United Family of Bristow Park hosted their first Christmas Carol event with 22 children singing Christmas songs throughout the Bristow Park neighborhood.
Families all over the city got into the Halloween spirit by at- tending their local parks’ Halloween celebrations.
6 • January 2017 • Report to the People


SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
1234567
New Year’s Day City Hall & Libraries Hecho a Mano Closed Rosewood Library 11 a.m.
8 9 10 11 12 13 14
Agency 6:30 p.m.
Hecho a Mano Hecho a Mano Rosewood Library 6 p.m. Veterans Library
City Council/Successor
Video Game Day Bandini Library 3 p.m.
5:30 p.m.
Education Commission 6 p.m.
Measure AA Committee 6 p.m.
Task Force Committee 3 p.m.
Community Services Commission 6:30 p.m.
English Book Club Bandini Library 6 p.m.
Hecho a Mano Bristow Library 6 p.m.
Traffic Commission 6:30 p.m.
15 16 17 18 19 20 21
Martin Luther King, Jr Day City Council/Successor
Video Game Day Bandini Library 3 p.m.
Hecho a Mano Bandini Library 5:30 p.m.
Agency 6:30 p.m.
City Hall & Libraries Closed
22 23 24 25 26 27 28
Database Fair Rosewood Library 5:30 p.m.
Database Fair Bandini Library 5:30 p.m.
Database Fair Veterans Library 5:30 p.m.
Database Fair Bristow Library 5:30 p.m.
57th Birthday City Incorporation
Library Commission 6 p.m.
Spanish Book Club Rosewood Library 6 p.m.
Planning Commission 6:30 p.m.
Spanish Reading Club Rosewood Library 5:30 p.m.
29
30
City Hall & Libraries Closed
31
Feburary 2017
SMTWTFS 1234 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 161718
19 20 21 22 232425 26 27 28
March 2017
SMTWTFS 1234
5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 161718 19 20 21 22 232425 26 27 28 29 30 31
City of Commerce
2535 Commerce Way Commerce, CA 90040 (323) 722-4805 Fax (323) 888-6841 ci.commerce.ca.us
“Make New Mis- takes. Make glorious, amazing mistakes. Make mistakes nobody's ever made before.” Neal Gaiman
“Write it on your heart that everyday is the best day of the year.” – Raplh Waldo Emerson
“Learn from yester- day, live for today, hope for tomorrow.” – Albert Einstein
“Cheers to a new
year and another chance for us to get it right.”
- Oprah Winfrey
Report to the People • January 2017 • 7


CITY OF COMMERCE
2535 Commerce Way Commerce, CA 90040
www.ci.commerce.ca.us
Where Quality Service Is Our Tradition
Mayor Ivan Altamirano Mayor Pro Tem Tina Baca Del Rio Councilmember Hugo A. Argumedo Councilmember Lilia R. Leon Councilmember Oralia Y. Rebollo
PRSRT STD ECRWSS
U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO 1806 LOS ANGELES, CA
******ECRWSSEDDM******
RESIDENTIAL CUSTOMER
COMMERCE, CA 90040
Important Phone Numbers
Aquatorium (323) 887-4404 Code Enforcement Ext. 2293 Animal Control (323) 887-4460 -Weekends/Evenings (562) 940-6898 Calmet (562) 259-1239 SCE St. Lights Out* (800) 611-1911 *Provide Light Pole # for Report E.L.A. Sheriff’s Office (323) 264-4151 Graffiti Hotline (323) 887-4444 Vector Control (562) 944-9656 Report Train Idling/Noise call BNSF (800) 832-5452
EMERGENCY 911
City of Commerce 2535 Commerce Way Commerce, CA 90040 • (323) 722-4805 Fax (323) 888-6841 • ci.commerce.ca3.us LANDMARK
TV CHANNEL CABLE GUIDE
JANUARY 2017 FEATURED HIGHLIGHTS
STtate Senator Looking for Woman of the Year Nominees
Award winning cablecasts of the
Successor Agency Meeting / City Council Concurrent Regular Meeting
Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. (Live every 1st and 3rd Tues.) Mondays 8 a.m. Wednesdays at 10 a.m., Thursdays at 5 p.m., Saturdays at 9 a.m.
o celebrate Women’s History in March, Senator Tony Mendoza is seeking nominations of women who are making a difference in their communities for his 2017 Woman of the Year for the 32nd Senate District. Nominations are
“In A Council Minute”
needed in the following categories: Business, Community Service, Education, Gov- ernment, Health, Labor and Non-Profits.
Mondays at 4 p.m., Tuesdays at 9 a.m., Wednesdays at 1 p.m., Thursdays at 4 p.m., Fridays at 3 p.m., Saturdays at 11:00 a.m., Sundays at 5:00 p.m.
“I invite members and organizations in the community to nominate women who have demonstrated dedication and commitment to the values of Women's History Month and made a positive impact through their work,” said Senator Tony Mendoza. “It is important to honor and celebrate the work of deserving women who are mak- ing a difference in the communities of the 32nd Senate District.”
Adopt a Pet
Nomination forms may be found and submitted online at Senator Mendoza’s web- site http://sd32.senate.ca.gov/
Commerce City News
Nominations may also be dropped off at his District Office located at 17315 Stude- baker Road, Suite 332, Cerritos, CA 90703. For more information, call Senator Men- doza’s District Office at (562) 860-3202. The submission deadline is Saturday, February 10, 2016.
Mondays at 6 p.m., Tuesdays at 12 p.m., Wednesdays at 8 a.m., Thursdays at 6 p.m. or after City Council Meeting, Fridays at 6 p.m., Saturdays at 11:30 a.m., Sundays
at 5:30 p.m.
Every March in a tradition dating back to 1987, the Senate celebrates Women’s History Month by honoring women throughout California whose con- tributions improve their communities.
Mondays at 5 p.m., Tuesdays at 3 p.m., Wednesdays at 5 p.m., Thursdays at 3 p.m., Fridays at 3 p.m., Saturdays at 3 p.m., Sundays at 2 p.m.
8 • January 2017 • Report to the People
Mondays at 12 p.m., Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m., Wednesdays at 4 p.m., Thursdays at 3 p.m. Fridays at 9 a.m., Saturdays at 6 p.m., Sundays at 8 p.m.
“Years Past” Concerts