Council Member Acosta raises concerns over surveillance cameras in South Omani offices

A heated debate erupted at the South El Monte City Council meeting on September 2, 2025, over the installation of surveillance cameras and listening devices in council members' offices. Council member Acosta raised serious concerns about the appropriateness of such measures, arguing that they violate the privacy and dignity of elected officials. He expressed his shock upon discovering the cameras, questioning the city manager's decision to install them without consulting the council.

Acosta emphasized the importance of confidentiality in council discussions, stating, "This is a place where we can actually go in and research and read up on things. And then now to have this voyeuristic action taken upon us is very, very disturbing." He challenged the city manager's justification for the surveillance, which was framed as a security measure against theft, pointing out that the cameras were placed inside the office rather than outside where potential intruders might enter.

In response, the city manager defended the installation, asserting that the cameras were necessary for security and that all information, including audio, could be beneficial in addressing theft or security issues. However, council members expressed mixed feelings about the surveillance, with some supporting the need for security while others echoed Acosta's concerns about privacy and executive privilege.

The discussion culminated in a motion to remove the surveillance cameras from the council members' offices, which ultimately failed. Instead, a proposal was made to consider adding cameras to other areas of the city hall, including the mayor's office, but this too did not gain enough support.

The meeting also touched on the status of new public safety officer contracts, with updates indicating a delay in hiring but a commitment to review proposals in the coming weeks. As the council moved into closed session, the contentious debate over surveillance highlighted ongoing tensions regarding transparency, security, and the rights of elected officials in South El Monte.