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West Covina council adopts censure of Councilmember Brian Gutierrez after extended public exchange
Summary
After two hours of testimony and a lengthy presentation by Councilmember Brian Gutierrez disputing an outside investigation, the West Covina City Council voted 3–1–1 on March 17 to adopt a resolution of censure, directing city management to protect staff and follow up on investigation findings.
Mayor Letty Lopez Viado and the West Covina City Council adopted a resolution of censure against Councilmember Brian Gutierrez on March 17, following a contentious public comment period and a two-hour presentation by Gutierrez challenging the findings of an independent investigation.
The resolution follows an investigation report prepared by Jameli Employment Law (dated Feb. 26, 2026) into allegations of unprofessional conduct and communications by Gutierrez that staff members said they reasonably perceived as intimidating or retaliatory. Outside counsel Thomas O’Connell summarized the report and explained the council’s options before opening the floor for Gutierrez’s response and council deliberation.
Gutierrez…
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