Rosemead Development News

City Manager Ben Kim Honored in Retirement; Council Approves Community Development Action Plan and Discusses Affordable Housing Incubator Project

City Council appointed Lily Valenzuela as acting city manager in a closed session with a 4-0 vote and one absence (Council Member Dang). The council then recessed a special meeting to return to closed session after the regular council meeting. The regular council meeting began with a roll call, confirming Councilmember Stephen Lee, Council Member Murder Clark, Mayor Pro Tempolli Lowe, and Mayor Sunder Amenta present, with Council Member Sean Dang absent. The meeting included the Pledge of Allegiance and an invocation, followed by public comments from Jonathan Locke. The first presentation was a retirement recognition for City Manager Ben Kim, with appreciation expressed by the Rosemary School District and the Rosemary Chamber of Commerce. Council members Clark, Lee, Mayor Pro Tem Low, and Mayor Armenta all offered their thanks and well wishes to Ben Kim for his service. Ben Kim also gave a speech thanking his family, colleagues, and staff. The meeting concluded with recognition of Ben Kim's service and a plaque presentation. Following this, a public hearing was held for the Program Year 2026-2027 Action Plan for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), HOME, and CDBG-CV programs, with recommendations for nonprofit allocations and city activities presented by housing consultant Priscilla Davila. A motion to approve the action plan and authorize submittal of funding recommendations passed 4-0. The consent calendar was adopted unanimously (4-0). The council then discussed the San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments (SGVCOG) Affordable Housing Incubator Program for city-owned parcels on Hart Avenue, evaluating a potential mixed-income housing development of 30 units. This discussion involved detailed financial analysis, affordability scenarios, and potential next steps, including rezoning and land use designation updates. The council provided feedback on the conceptual plans and affordability scenarios. Finally, council members shared comments regarding the upcoming 4th of July celebrations and public safety measures for illegal fireworks. The meeting was adjourned at 9:27 PM.