Cerritos City Council extends Southwest Patrol contract and plans for community safety officers

Cerritos City Council has taken significant steps to enhance community safety and public art during its recent meeting on April 10, 2025. The council approved a contract amendment for the Tribute to Public Safety public art project, addressing unforeseen issues that arose during construction. The project is expected to be completed within 30 to 45 days, with the installation of granite walls set to begin next week.

In a move to bolster local security, the council also extended its contract with Southwest Patrol until June 30, 2025. This extension will allow for the hiring of two additional community safety officers (CSOs) and the purchase of a new CSO vehicle. The decision comes in response to rising concerns about residential burglaries in the area. The council allocated $40,000 for the contract extension and $222,669 for the hiring and equipping of the new officers.

During public comments, residents expressed appreciation for the council's efforts and highlighted the importance of community engagement in local safety initiatives. The council's proactive measures reflect a commitment to addressing public safety concerns while also enhancing the cultural landscape of Cerritos through the completion of the public art project.

As these initiatives move forward, the city council aims to keep residents informed about the progress of both the public art installation and the expansion of community safety resources.