Measure S oversight committee starts adding members

Update: This article has been updated to include Mayor Pro Tem Sean Ashton's nominee for the committee.

When Downey voters approved a half-cent sales tax increase last November, it included a stipulation that an independent oversight committee would ensure the money was spent as intended: on public safety and quality of life enhancements.

On Tuesday night, the City Council is expected to approve four of those committee members.

Proposed members include:

■ former mayor David Gafin, an accountant by trade, appointed by Councilmember Blanca Pacheco;

■ former mayor Mario Guerra, an insurance broker, appointed by Councilman Alex Saab;

■ former mayor Roger Brossmer, an assistant superintendent at Downey Unified, appointed by Mayor Pro Tem Sean Ashton;

■ Jeanette Baumann, executive vice president of the Downey Association of Realtors, appointed by Mayor Fernando Vasquez; and

■ Dorothy Pemberton, a realtor and civic leader, appointed by Councilman Rick Rodriguez. 

The City Council has already begun allocating proceeds from the sales tax measure, also known as Measure S, voting two weeks ago to bolster the Downey Police Department by hiring 10 additional police officers. 

"[Last week's] actions demonstrate our commitment to carry out the voters priorities under Measure S," Mayor Vasquez said in a statement. "By adjusting this year’s budget to include the hiring of ten new officers, we continue to stay true to our commitment in always keeping public safety the city’s number one priority."