Bell Gardens city manager to depart in June; council names Manuel A. Costa acting city manager

City Manager Michael Kelly told the Bell Gardens City Council on May 11 that he has submitted his resignation effective June 6, 2026. "I have given my resignation as the city manager from the city of Bell effective June 6," Kelly said during his city manager report.

Council then reported out of closed session and confirmed that, following Kelly’s resignation, the council voted to appoint Manuel A. Costa to serve as acting city manager effective June 7, 2026 while the city conducts a recruitment for a permanent replacement. Staff said the acting appointment will follow compensation terms prescribed by the city employees’ memorandum of understanding and applicable council resolution.

Council members thanked Kelly for seven years of service and wished him well. The council and staff did not set a timeline for recruitment beyond the acting appointment; staff said they will return with details on the recruitment process and any related personnel matters.

The appointment was reported in open session after closed session concluded; staff said there were two items discussed in closed session and that no other reportable action was taken.

Council also completed votes on several routine and operational contracts during the same meeting, including procurement related to the Workday implementation and cashiering/kiosk services (items 10.5 and 10.7), which were discussed and approved by roll call.