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Residents press Compton council on parking, alleged charter violations and nonprofit spending during public comment
Summary
Multiple residents urged action on neighborhood parking and handicap access, called for an investigation into conduct by a commissioner, and questioned nonprofit payments and transparency; council asked staff for follow‑up on specific addresses and documentation.
A string of public comments at the Compton City Council meeting covered neighborhood parking problems, calls for ethics review, questions about nonprofit spending and concerns about past litigation.
Bishop Gillery, identified as chair of the Public Safety Commission, spoke in favor of the city’s updated Emergency Operations Plan and urged renewed attention to employee safety and enforcement of tow ordinances to address street takeovers. "It was very comprehensive... it meets all of the FEMA, all of the state and county regulations for safety," Bishop Gillery said in support of agenda item 6.
Abil Banova (District 2) requested a full and independent investigation into actions by Bishop J.L. Gillery, alleging that his conduct has undermined public confidence, including claims he threatened Latino and undocumented communities and declared a state of emergency without proper authorization. Banova said she had submitted materials to the city attorney and asked the council to act.
Other residents raised everyday quality‑of‑life concerns. Diane Rogers described repeated curb‑blocking that prevents a disabled resident from safely exiting a vehicle and asked staff to check whether a handicap parking space could be installed. Mark Smith raised traffic safety issues at a stretch of roadway with U‑turn islands and requested AED training for city staff and clearer street‑sweeping signage.
Missy questioned a $106,000 payment to a nonprofit (described in testimony as 'Nibbles and Thoughts') and asked for accountability on how tax dollars were spent. Councilmember Andre Spicer responded later in the meeting to an accusation regarding a city vehicle payment, explaining he reimbursed the assistant city manager for a rental‑car damage and that campaign records show the reimbursement check was not cashed.
Fidel Marquez (District 1) asked about the city’s relationship with Craig Cornwell and expressed concern about potential costs to taxpayers; he also referenced SB79 and federal enforcement actions in other jurisdictions as a caution about housing deals.
Council members acknowledged the concerns and asked staff to follow up on addresses, provide information about leases and developer activity, and to supply the EOP document to council members for review.
