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All council members were present for the Tuesday, December 15 Special City Council meeting. Open session started at 6:44 p.m. and ended at 8:49 p.m. Here are the highlights:
Mayor Albert Robles showered with respect and appreciation as he bids farewell.
Mayor Albert Robles gave his final remarks on his experience serving the city of Carson since 2013 while many of his colleagues and friends came to express their appreciation for his hard work. Among those who said goodbye to Robles were representatives from Assemblymember Mike Gipson’s office, Dignity Health, and CSUDH, along with City Manager Sharon Landers, City Attorney Sunny Soltani and the rest of the councilmembers. Senator Steven Bradford and Acting Commander Jason Skeen showed up personally to thank Robles for his dedicated support with their endeavors. After receiving praises, proclamations, and numerous gifts (including a street sign and a L.A. Galaxy Jersey both with his name on it), Mayor Robles summarized his experience as an elected official quoting an excerpt from his favorite poet, Charles McKay, titled “No Enemies.” Robles was proud that he made enemies while fighting for what he believed was in the best interests for all the residents in the city. Robles’ closest ally and friend, Councilmember Jawane Hilton reminded the Robles that despite the adversaries, Robles will always be known to him as “Brother Mayor.” Robles last council meeting will be on Jan 12 where he will pass the over to Lula Davis-Holmes officially.
City boasts increased General Fund from successful land exchange and new Corporate Yard. The council celebrated the land exchange and construction of the city’s new corporate yard which ultimately added $5,305,437 into the City’s General Fund. After the addition of funds, the updated first quarter financial report of the General Fund Reserve of FY 20-21 reveals a total of $43.2 million. Councilmembers openly thanked all those involved with Mayor Robles praising the city’s healthy reserve. “Our financial footing here in Carson is solid, strong, and among the healthiest in the entire state.” exclaimed Robles.
COVID-19 update indicates 1.7% ICU capacity in Southern California. Emergency Services Manager Raymond Cheung presented updated COVID-19 data indicating a sharp rise of new cases and deaths in L.A. County. According to Cheung, daily cases in L.A. county has approximately quadrupled in the last 30 days. Even more concerning, Cheung revealed that as of Dec. 15 southern California intensive care unit capacity was at 1.7% and several counties in the area had reached 0%. Cheung’s presentation did show some good news regarding vaccines for COVID-19. Out of the 300 million vaccine doses purchased by the country, California will receive 2.1 million doses by the end of the December. He added that L.A. county will open at least 10 vaccination sites, 2 per supervisorial district around February – April. The Pfizer vaccination will require a 2nd dose be taken 3 weeks after the first while the Moderna vaccine calls for 2 doses separated by 4 weeks.*
Public Holidays and Upcoming Events. A few key dates for the remaining weeks of December were highlighted during the meeting. Mayor Robles declared Tuesday, Dec. 29 and Wednesday, Dec. 30 as public holidays suggesting that city employees should also utilize their paid time off for Monday Dec. 28 and Thursday Dec. 31. “However, we also realize that the choice as to what day our employees elect to have off … is theirs.” Robles added, “The hope is that they will heed this advice and follow what we are asking so that city hall can be closed for the entire last week of December.” The following events were also introduced:
Holiday of Lights Drive-Thru: Saturday, December 19 from 4:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Car entry at the Community Center North parking lot off of Civic Center Dr. If you wish to donate any non-perishable or canned foods please contact Victory Outreach of Carson. Registration through Eventbrite can be done here.
Santa Sleigh Experience: Tentatively scheduled for two stops on Dec. 22 and Dec. 23 from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Mayor-elect Lula Davis-Holmes along with the rest of the council requested city staff to expand the event time and locations. Santa’s updated route and visitation will be posted on the city website when available.
Zoom with Santa: Until Dec. 23, families can schedule a personalized Zoom call with Santa Claus. Please call (310) 835-0212 ext. 1496 to register.
* At the meeting, Emergency Services Manager Raymond Cheung originally stated that the vaccinations require a 2nd dose be taken 4-6 weeks after the first. He emailed CAT later with the correct information.
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