Monterey Park · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Monterey Park public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Library Security Camera Upgrade
The library's outdated camera system will be replaced with 11 Verkada cameras for $102,886.53, integrating with the city's police-accessible system.
El Niño local emergency declaration
The council declared a local emergency for the developing 2026–27 El Niño, letting the City Manager negotiate contracts directly and skip normal bidding to get storm-prep work done fast.
Los Palos Incident Local Emergency Termination
After the warehouse fire smoke emergency, the city handed out 5,000 masks and set up a $50,000 air purifier reimbursement program — residents have until July 31 to apply.
Flock camera data privacy
The Monterey Park Police Department uses Automated License Plate Recognition cameras, and this meeting was the community's chance to learn how the technology works and ask questions. These cameras can track vehicle license plates across the city, raising both public safety benefits and privacy questions for residents.
Pedestrian safety at fire station intersection
A lifelong resident described near-misses with cars running through the intersection by the fire station and asked for help. The mayor suggested extra traffic enforcement and staff follow-up.
Crime trends and fraud prevention
Crime is down across the board — robberies down 6%, burglaries down 23%, auto theft down 17% — but fraud is up 7%, hitting seniors especially hard. The city is adding two police officers, including one for the Neighborhood Engagement Team.
Immigrant Community Services Partnership
One speaker demanded the city enforce a mask ban and impede ICE operations; separately, the city announced a new partnership with Chinatown Service Center to expand immigrant support services, and Council Member Wong asked staff to research ICE Free Zone ordinance language.