Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Rosemead public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
6 issues in taxes budget
FY 2026-27 City Budget
The budget shows a small operating surplus ($231K), healthy reserves ($37.5M), and big cost pressures: sheriff's contract up $436K, pensions up to $1.1M, and federal COVID funds expiring for 4.25 positions. A new deputy city manager role replaces the assistant city manager at roughly $100K savings.
City Clerk Compensation Increase
City Clerk Ericka Hernandez received a 7% raise after a perfect performance review, bringing her salary to $188,448. Paid from the existing budget.
Labor Negotiations
The city is negotiating with its labor negotiators, including matters involving the City Clerk position as an unrepresented employee. These talks can affect employee pay, benefits, and ultimately the city budget.
Property Tax Education and Title Fraud Protection
Assessor Jeff Prang urged homeowners to claim the often-missed homeowner's exemption, explained Prop 19's inheritance rule changes, announced a new $10,000 small-business tax threshold benefiting about 43,000 businesses, and promoted the free Homeowner Alert email service that flags deed changes within 48 hours.
2026-27 Federal CDBG and HOME Funding
The city expects about $542,776 in CDBG and $230,551 in HOME funds, plus roughly $200,000 in leftover pandemic grants that must be spent by September. Staff recommends splitting most public-service grants evenly at $9,560 each, which drew scrutiny from Ly and Dang over whether funds truly serve and track Rosemead residents.
Independent Cities Association Membership
The council voted to spend $2,539.25 to join ICA, an association of cities that largely run their own services — a deliberate oddity for a contract city. Ly argued it builds regional voice and lets Rosemead learn from full-service cities on policing and drones; Clark and others questioned the value.