West Covina council faces criticism over Chevy franchise loss and city clerk's campaign promises

The City Council meeting in West Covina on April 15, 2014, highlighted significant concerns regarding the loss of the Chevrolet franchise and the performance of newly elected officials.

During the meeting, a speaker addressed the council about the recent closure of the Chevrolet dealership, attributing the blame to various parties involved, including the local dealer group and a specific individual, Mr. Alhassen. The speaker noted that GM's Chevrolet division has expressed dissatisfaction with Mr. Alhassen's negotiation tactics, which they believe have contributed to the franchise's loss. He urged the council to release relevant documents related to the ongoing litigation to provide transparency to the public, emphasizing that taxpayers deserve to understand the financial implications of the situation.

Additionally, the speaker raised concerns about the newly elected city clerk, Mr. Lewis, who had pledged to work towards eliminating his own office during his campaign. The speaker noted that there has been no update on this promise and expressed disappointment over Mr. Lewis's absence from council meetings since his election. He requested a progress report on the commitments made to voters, highlighting the importance of accountability in local government.

The discussions reflect ongoing challenges in West Covina's governance and the need for clear communication between elected officials and the community. The council's response to these issues may shape public trust and future decision-making in the city.