Costco in negotiations to open Downey store

Photo by Mike Mozart/Creative Commons License

DOWNEY – Downey is in negotiations with Costco to bring the wholesale giant to the city.

Talks remain in the preliminary stages, according to sources with knowledge of the negotiations but not authorized to speak publicly.

The former All American Home Center property on Firestone Boulevard is being eyed as a potential landing spot, the sources said.

Former city manager Gilbert Livas is reportedly attached to the project. The city council last week voted to hire Livas as an economic consultant through the end of this year.

In an email, a Costco representative said the company does not comment on potential store openings.

Councilwoman Claudia Frometa said she asked Livas last year to consider returning as a consultant to “help us with important projects.”

“Gil’s knowledge, expertise and relationships in our community have been instrumental in moving us forward,” Frometa said. “Gil agreed and has been working with us since last year.”

Mayor Pro Tem Hector Sosa declined to speak directly about Costco but said Livas “had the best interest for the city.”

“He has relationships with the right people to get things done,” he said.

Livas’ contract with Downey will pay him $63,000.