Huntington Park will hold a special meeting Wednesday to appoint a new councilmember

After a two-month battle, which included a lawsuit against the city from a former councilwoman and a court appeal from the City of Huntington Park, the city was approved to move forward with appointing a new councilmember on April 23. 

Former Councilwoman Esmeralda Castillo’s seat was vacated in February after an investigation showed she lives in South Gate. According to municipal code § 2-9.02(a), council members must reside within the jurisdiction they serve.

The City stated in a press release that the determination followed public complaints and an independent investigation conducted by the Huntington Park Police Department. The verified evidence and witness’ statements corroborated that Castillo does not live in Huntington Park.

Immediately after, Castillo filed a lawsuit against the City and three council members, and on April 4, the Los Angeles Superior Court issued a temporary restraining order prohibiting Huntington Park from filling the  City Council vacancy. On Monday the restraining order was lifted. 

In the meantime, the City had opened an application period and 29 candidates showed interest to fill the vacant position. 

The process

Huntington Park City Manager, Ricardo Reyes said all candidates were notified immediately after receiving clearance to present during a special meeting on Wednesday, April 23. 

“Whoever can make it, great. If they can't make it in person, they're welcome to submit something in writing for the council to consider,” said Reyes.

Reyes said each candidate will have about three minutes to speak in front of the council to explain why they should be selected for the appointment. Once they are done, it is up to the council’s discretion on how to proceed. 

“After each presentation is made, the council can ask questions. They don't have to, but they'll all have an opportunity to ask questions of the candidates for some back and forth,” said Reyes. “Then at any point, if any [councilmember] calls the question, a nomination would have to be made. It has to be seconded, and then that would be voted on.”

Reyes said the process may seem too quick, but in reality they are trying to meet the 60-day deadline. Once a councilmember seat is vacant, state law requires that the council fills the vacancy within 60 days. Castillo’s vacancy was announced on February 24 and the deadline is April 25. 

For those who question why there was not a special election, the City said it is to prevent a costly and time-consuming process, while preserving the City’s ability to function effectively and without delay.

Huntington Park Mayor Arturo Flores said the members of the City Council have a civic duty to uphold the laws of the city.

“The sole purpose of the upcoming Special Meeting is to serve the interests of our community by appointing a new council member who resides within the City,” he said. 

Councilman Jonathan Sanabria said the former councilwoman gave up her seat when she moved out of the city.

“That’s not just our opinion, it’s the law,” he said.