Cerritos council addresses crime rates and safety with resident proposals

A poignant moment unfolded at the Cerritos City Council meeting on June 12, 2025, as community members voiced their concerns over rising crime and public safety initiatives. The meeting highlighted a significant uptick in home burglaries, with reports indicating a total of 12 incidents in recent weeks. Local resident Mel Cortez commended the efforts of the sheriff's department and neighborhood watch, urging continued vigilance to keep crime rates low.

Cortez also raised pressing questions about the delayed implementation of Phase 2 for automatic license plate readers, initially approved in February. With the fiscal year nearing its end, he expressed concern over potential funding loss if the project does not proceed promptly. In a positive turn, City Manager confirmed that installation is scheduled for next week, alleviating some worries.

Additionally, Cortez called for a standalone safety fair to connect residents with safety vendors and resources, emphasizing the need for community engagement in addressing safety concerns. He also addressed the growing issue of a homeless encampment, urging the city to take proactive measures for cleanup to prevent further deterioration of the area.

The meeting underscored the community's commitment to safety and the importance of timely action on public safety initiatives, as residents seek to foster a secure environment for all.