Overview

A recall campaign is currently in progress against Cerritos Mayor Frank Aurelio Yokoyama and Mayor Pro Tem Lynda P. Johnson. This initiative follows the City Council's approval of substantial water and sewer rate increases earlier this year, which have drawn significant public discontent.

Petitions are being circulated across the city, gathering signatures from residents who oppose the council's decisions. This marks a notable shift from previous protests, as residents are now publicly voicing their discontent.

Key details

  • The recall effort targets Mayor Frank Aurelio Yokoyama and Mayor Pro Tem Lynda P. Johnson.
  • Petitions have been published in Los Cerritos Community News and are actively circulating.
  • Residents have expressed their opposition to the City Council's approval of water and sewer rate increases.
  • Approximately 6,400 written protests were submitted during the Proposition 218 process.
  • The recall campaign represents a coordinated effort to remove the two elected officials.
  • Concerns have been raised regarding the council's spending priorities, including travel and discretionary expenditures.
  • Residents are frustrated by the timing of increased utility costs alongside council spending on international trips.
  • The recall documents mention tensions at public meetings, including remarks labeling opponents as “bullies.”
  • City officials have defended the rate increases, citing aging infrastructure and long-term system costs.
  • Despite the explanations from city officials, many residents remain dissatisfied with the rationale provided.

Context

The recall initiative reflects a growing discontent among Cerritos residents regarding local governance and financial decisions, particularly in relation to utility costs that have affected many households.

What happens next

As the recall campaign progresses, it will be crucial to monitor the response from city officials and the outcome of the petition drive, which may lead to a formal recall election if sufficient signatures are gathered.

What we don't know yet

Details regarding the total number of signatures required for the recall, the timeline for the petition drive, and the specific responses from Mayor Yokoyama and Mayor Pro Tem Johnson have not been confirmed.