City Attorney defends due process amid criticism during Southgate council meeting

The South Gate City Council convened on May 27, 2025, to address various community concerns and operational updates. The meeting, which extended late into the night, featured discussions on public comments, cybersecurity issues, and community collaboration.

One of the primary topics was the public's reaction to recent decisions regarding animal control. Council members expressed their commitment to due process, emphasizing that decisions should not be swayed by public outcry or social media backlash. A council member acknowledged receiving numerous emails criticizing the council's actions, highlighting the importance of following established procedures rather than yielding to popular opinion.

The city attorney addressed concerns raised about his performance, referencing the legal standards for defamation and the rights of public officials. He reiterated the council's commitment to allowing public discourse, even when it includes criticism of city staff and officials. This commitment to free speech was underscored by a quote from a former council member, emphasizing the importance of protecting the right to express differing opinions.

Cybersecurity was another significant point of discussion. The city treasurer reported on ongoing issues with YouTube connectivity during meetings, clarifying that the problem was not related to the city’s internet connection but rather an issue with the platform itself. He proposed that the IT team prioritize YouTube access for the city clerk's computer to ensure smoother operations during future meetings.

Councilwoman Avalos shared insights from the recent Contract Cities Conference, particularly regarding collaboration between local governments, school districts, and chambers of commerce. She noted challenges in fostering such collaboration within South Gate, particularly with the local school district, and expressed hope for future improvements.

Councilman Pablo raised concerns about misinformation and disinformation circulating in the community, stressing the need for local governments to address these issues proactively. He shared an article on handling misinformation and indicated that he had forwarded it to the city attorney and city manager for consideration.

The meeting concluded with acknowledgments of community members' participation and a reminder of the importance of ongoing dialogue between the council and residents. The council members expressed gratitude for the public's engagement, even as some attendees left dissatisfied with certain decisions made during the meeting. The council remains committed to transparency and responsiveness to community needs as they move forward.