During a recent city council meeting in Downey, residents voiced concerns over various local issues, including the impact of street closures on businesses, homelessness management, and public safety.

One speaker highlighted the upcoming street closure on Downey Avenue for a veterans event, scheduled from November 8th to November 11th. The chair of a local thrift store expressed frustration over the lack of parking during this period, emphasizing that limited access could significantly affect their business operations.

Another resident raised issues regarding the city's approach to homelessness, criticizing the performance of CityNet, a service hired to address the issue. The speaker claimed that the security personnel hired by the city were ineffective, citing instances where they failed to engage with homeless individuals. The resident suggested that the city should adopt strategies similar to those of neighboring Norwalk, which reportedly has a more effective approach to managing homelessness.

Concerns about public safety were echoed by multiple speakers, particularly regarding speeding near bus stops and the cleanliness of public spaces. One resident described a dangerous situation where children were nearly hit by speeding vehicles, urging the council to take action to improve safety measures.

The meeting underscored a growing frustration among residents regarding the city's handling of these pressing issues, with calls for more effective solutions and better communication from city officials. The council members acknowledged the concerns raised and committed to following up on the issues discussed, particularly regarding public safety and homelessness management.