San Fernando council pauses June outdoor market after business owners, unions raise contracting concerns

Dozens of small-business owners and union representatives told the San Fernando City Council they oppose outsourcing public-works tasks for city-sponsored outdoor markets, saying private contractors would hurt local jobs and public safety.

The council heard detailed public comments and a staff explanation of the city’s special-events and cosponsorship practices after the agenda item on small-business and employee concerns. Councilmember Victoria Garcia asked whether city approval of the June outdoor market also authorized contracting out public-works services; staff said that special events that are not produced by the city are permitted under the special-events process and may either provide their own traffic-management plans or opt to use city services, reimbursing the city for staff time.

The concern drew speakers from two unions and a business representative. Charles Leon, coordinator for SEIU Local 721, told the council: “When the city begins to contract out these services, it risks losing oversight and control over the quality and reliability of the work that is performed.” He said services already contracted out include “water and backflow testing” and warned privatization could set a precedent…