The Montclair City Council held a meeting on March 16, 2026, which included presentations, public comments, and significant discussion regarding a high-profile sexual harassment case involving Council Member Ben Lopez. The council reaffirmed a prior censure resolution against Lopez, detailing findings of unlawful sexual harassment and discrimination, and imposed additional sanctions including removal from committees, restrictions on communication with city staff, and suspension of certain benefits. The city has incurred over $750,000 in legal costs related to the case. Public comments included strong calls for Lopez's resignation and support for a recall effort. The council also discussed a consent calendar item related to traffic signal improvements funded by a grant and addressed community concerns about ICE enforcement activities, directing staff to prepare a report on possible city responses. The meeting concluded with motions passed to reaffirm the censure and to request further information on immigration enforcement impacts in Montclair.

Montclair City Council Meeting - March 16, 2026