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Cudahy council mandates Spanish translation of city public notices and outreach materials
Summary
The council adopted an ordinance requiring that city‑issued notices and outreach materials be provided in Spanish (and existing partner translations were noted). Council members framed the move as a measure of inclusivity and accessibility for non‑English speakers in the city.
Cudahy — On Oct. 7 the City Council adopted an ordinance (14D/Ord. 7 62) requiring Spanish translation of public notices and outreach materials produced by the city and its contractors when the materials are disseminated to the public.
Council member Fuentes, who brought the item forward, framed the ordinance as a step to ensure non‑English speakers can meaningfully participate in municipal processes. The interim city manager told council staff already provides translated materials for major programs and partners in Spanish and simplified Chinese, but the ordinance formalizes translation requirements in city contracts and public communications.
Council members emphasized the ordinance’s inclusive goals and the practical need for translated notices during major changes — for example, ballot measures, utilities decisions, or public program changes. The ordinance includes staff direction that city contractors and consultants who produce public materials must provide Spanish translations as part of their deliverables.
Vote: Council approved the ordinance by roll call with unanimous support; council directed staff to treat translation needs as part of contract requirements going forward.
