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Parlier resident says armed security forced at senior-center rental; council orders review and refund follow-up
Summary
A resident told the council she was forced to hire armed security for a non-alcohol event at the senior center, said guards were intrusive and that contract language cited a city manager instruction; councilmembers apologized, said no council policy had authorized forced vendors, and directed staff to investigate contracts, insurance guidance, and refund requests.
Janet Reyes told the Parlier City Council on Jan. 18 that renting the senior center for a non-alcohol birthday party was "the worst experience," alleging she was forced to obtain security that included armed guards who made guests uncomfortable and recorded attendees. Reyes said the security clause on her contract referenced a city manager instruction and that she felt targeted because of a relationship to the mayor; she asked the city to return her rental payment, deposit and insurance costs immediately.
Council members and staff responded that the city does not have authority to force renters to use private security firms when there is no city contract in place, and they acknowledged inconsistent staff practice. Council members said earlier practices allowed renters to supply their own licensed security and that some prior events lacked on-site security despite contract paperwork. Risk Management/insurance guidance (RMA) and liability concerns were cited as reasons to clarify policy.
Mayor Alma Beltran and others apologized to Reyes for her experience. Council directed staff to: (1) review rental contracts and past files to identify where the language changed and why; (2) confirm insurance and liability guidance with the city's risk manager and city attorney; and (3) contact Reyes promptly about potential refunds and next steps. The council also agreed to place a formal agenda item at the next meeting to set clear, council-approved rental and security policies, including whether the city will offer an optional flat-rate package that bundles insurance and vetted security providers.
Next steps: Staff will investigate the contract discrepancy, check insurance/RMA guidance, contact the resident with status, and return a formal policy recommendation to the council at the next meeting. No refunds were authorized during the meeting; staff was asked to prioritize contacting the resident with a status update as soon as possible.
