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Residents and firefighters call for independent review after no‑confidence actions and competing union letters
Summary
Public comment at the June 24 council meeting included a 30‑page no‑confidence report alleging favoritism and retaliation in the Montebello Fire Department; management and rank‑and‑file union supporters disputed the allegations and urged respectful dialogue, and speakers called for an independent, impartial investigation.
Several public speakers used the June 24 council meeting to publicize internal disputes within the Montebello Fire Department and to ask the council to commission an independent investigation.
Resident Will Severo said a 30‑page report from the Fire Management Association alleges an "unusual close relationship" between Fire Chief Fernando Pelias and a firefighter identified as Zachary Humber, contending the firefighter received preferential promotion, a vehicle and office, and influence over scheduling and overtime. Severo said battalion chiefs who raised concerns faced retaliatory measures and that the report documents a "culture of fear." He urged immediate removal of the chief, the firefighter cited in the report, and the assistant city manager while an investigation proceeds.
Assistant Fire Chief Alfredo Estrada, who spoke later, said he disagreed with a vote of no confidence and urged organizational dialogue. Members of the rank‑and‑file association (Local 3821) also delivered a signed letter of no confidence in certain union officers while expressing support for Chief Pelias and the department’s leadership; Marcos Miranda said a majority of Local 3821 supports the chief and criticized outside commentators who portray the department as incompetent.
Several speakers urged the council to commission a truly independent investigation conducted by a firm with no ties to the city or department so that the facts could be found and trust restored. Others urged the council to ensure due process for employees and careful, non‑political handling of personnel matters.
The council did not take any formal action at the meeting beyond receiving public comment.
What to watch: Residents and department leaders asked the council to consider options for an impartial external review. The council may decide whether to request a formal investigation, to seek administrative review by the city manager, or to receive additional documentation as part of any personnel or labor processes.
