FAQ re: Repeal and Recall Petitions
Below are answers to some of the most common questions we receive regarding the Water & Sewer Rate Repeal initiative and the Recall petitions.
Is it true that the water and sewer rate increase decision was UNANIMOUS and that you are recalling ONLY 2 of the 5 council members?
No. The official city record shows the following:
• The first vote was 3 in favor and 2 against.
• The second vote was 4 in favor and 1 abstention.
Is this organized by Republicans in Cerritos who are trying to wrest power from Democrats?
Not at all. It is a non-partisan group of residents who happen to be frustrated by the bureaucracy and lack of transparency and fiscal responsibility at City Hall.
Is this a power grab?
No. Recall is a democratic option available for voters to bring about necessary change.
Is this about racism, targeting a specific group?
No. This claim by the two individuals facing recall is false. Our volunteers and supporters reflect the diversity of Cerritos including Filipinos (and even the Mayor's own daughter and other family members).
Will the recall cost over a million dollars in special elections?
This is yet more desperate spin from Mayor Johnson and Council Member Yokoyama. The City Charter clearly states that the remaining Council Members may appoint by majority two new colleagues to serve the remaining term.
Will the Repeal result in loss of millions in revenue and cause cost reduction of basic services like the library, senior center and public safety?
No. The water rates have already doubled. The main issue is the further doubling, which many believe is unnecessary. The City should explore all options to cut other expenses before increasing rates again.
Is this Water Repeal a way to "get back" or "settle scores" as has been stated by the current Council?
No. This is a simple matter of fairness. The proposed increase in water rates is too much, too fast, and for too long. The average family would pay an extra $1,200 per year. That the Council did not recognize this, or consider the 6,400 protest forms or hundreds of people at the hearing, indicates that they are not looking out for the residents.
Are you saying that the City can continue without any rate increase?
No. Most people recognize that the rates need to increase. Most residents accepted the prior 10% annual increase from 2014 to 2021, which roughly doubled the rates over that seven-year period. Most residents would accept a similar increase now.
How did we arrive at this state? Who is responsible for the current financial mess?
This is a long and complex story, and our purpose is not to affix blame for past actions or inactions. We merely want to set reasonable water and sewer rates going forward.
Can the Council simply approve the water repeal petition, and thus fix the water rates?
Yes. If sufficient petitions are signed they can do so. In this case, the repeal petition would thus not need to be put on the ballot.
If the recall petition gathers enough signatures, will it be put on the ballot?
Yes, though the Council Members in question can simply resign (and thus save the City the cost of an election). New Council Members would be appointed by the existing Council; an election would not be necessary.
Who is behind this movement?
We are a non-partisan, multi-ethnic, grassroots group of organizers and volunteers who love our city.