Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Paramount public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
9 issues in public safety with medium priority
Mr. J's Bar Live Entertainment Expansion Consideration
Mr. J's Bar at 7824 Alondra Boulevard asked to add DJs and live bands to its karaoke-only permit, running Thursdays through Saturdays from 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. The city's six-month review found zero incidents, and the council was set to weigh neighborhood noise and safety concerns.
Ballistic shields for sheriff's deputies
Using a federal grant plus a little general fund money, the city is buying three upgraded Vanguard Tri-Grip ballistic shields to protect deputies and bystanders during active shooter incidents. The sworn division itself requested the upgrade.
Code enforcement caseload surge
Code enforcement cases are up about 55% since before COVID — over 1,100 a year — and officers are carrying double the old caseloads. Staff credits the city's easy online reporting tools and keeps an education-first approach.
Flock Surveillance Cameras Concerns
Three residents emailed the council expressing concerns about the city's Flock camera program. The comments were distributed to the council but not discussed in detail on the record.
Illegal Fireworks Enforcement — Fourth of July After-Action
This Fourth of July saw 49 illegal fireworks calls, 117 citations, and about 3,300 pounds of fireworks seized, with undercover sheriff operations arresting 49 sellers. Calls were up slightly from last year but below 2023-24 levels.
Zoom public participation at council meetings
Starting July 14, residents can watch and speak at council meetings over Zoom — cameras off, hands raised to speak. If the feed goes down, the council must recess for at least an hour under the new state law.
Residential parking congestion
A 26-year resident told the council her 16-home cul-de-sac is so clogged with parked cars that emergency vehicles can barely get through. The city's public safety team will review the street and look at options like time-limited no-parking rules.
Youth Activities League program at Spane Park
The sheriff-run after-school program serves 58 at-risk kids ages 7-17 with tutoring, fitness, life skills and excursions; the Sheriff's Youth Foundation takes over administration July 1, and the city will continue housing and partially funding it.
Noise and liquor complaints at 15337 Lakewood Boulevard business
Residents report loud weekend music, street drinking and public urination outside a business on Lakewood Boulevard that allegedly sells liquor without a license. The council said it would investigate.