Cerritos Council prioritizes development of old Sears property for multiuse project

The Special City Council Meeting held on May 7, 2025, in Cerritos, California, focused on several key issues, primarily centered around the development of the old Sears property and the city's financial operations.

The meeting commenced with discussions regarding the long-awaited redevelopment of the old Sears site. City officials, including Mayor and Council members, expressed urgency in accelerating the project, which has been stagnant for over seven years. Mayor emphasized the need to prioritize this development, citing a recent positive report from Macerich Corporation, the property's owner. The corporation has indicated that the Cerritos site remains a priority amidst their portfolio reevaluation, with plans for new tenants and potential residential and hotel components that could enhance local sales tax revenue.

Council members were informed that discussions with Metro regarding the Southeast Gateway light rail project have included strategies to increase foot traffic to the Los Cerritos Center. These conversations aim to explore shuttle services from the planned terminus in Artesia to key locations in Cerritos, including the mall.

In addition to the redevelopment discussions, the council addressed financial concerns related to credit card processing fees incurred by the city. Members requested a detailed report on the costs associated with credit card transactions, as these fees affect city revenue and customer payment options.

The meeting also touched on the city's water and sewer services, which are currently operating at a loss. Council members sought updates on the financial implications of subsidizing these services for residents, indicating a need for further analysis and reporting.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the city's commitment to revitalizing the old Sears property while also addressing pressing financial issues affecting city operations. The council plans to follow up on these discussions in future meetings, aiming for transparency and progress in both development and financial management.