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City Manager's report

April 2026

Youth in Government day

The City hosted Youth in Government Day, which invites local youth for a day of learning and fun.

This event offers an excellent chance for young people to learn about the functions of a city and the significance of each department.

Departments had the opportunity to empower young people with hands-on experience in the democratic processes by sharing insights into how our departments operate. All centered around the goal of inspiring future careers.

Tranist Administrative Supervisor, Rachel Yoo, gave an overview of what goes on behind the scenes to keep the Gardena bus lines moving forward.
Public Works and PD brought out their special equipment to show off to the students.
Students broke up into groups and worked with City Staff to come up with their own "campaign", highlighting what they would want to change in the City.

Earth Day Clean up

Our annual Earth Day Clean-up saw an impressive turnout, with volunteers helping to remove debris and trash from the Willows Wetland Preserve in celebration of Earth Day.

Public Safety Day

In collaboration with the Gardena Police Department, Los Angeles County Fire Department, and Tri-City CERT, the City hosted Public Safety Day to inform the community about disaster prevention and much more.

The main goal of Public Safety Day is to urge residents to ask themselves if they are prepared for a disaster, all while giving them the tools and knowledge on disaster prevention.

At the City of Gardena’s Public Safety Day, GTrans shared valuable transit safety information and resources with community members.

Events like these play an important role in promoting awareness and ensuring a safe experience across GTrans' transit system.

Community yard sale

Residents came out to Mas Fukai Park to buy and sell items ranging from: clothes, antiques, jewelry, and baby necessities at bargain prices.

Be on the lookout for the 2027 Community Yard Sale! 

Youth Chess Tournament

The Nakaoka Community Center hosted a Youth Chess Tournament which brought together over 60 talented chess players.

Participants ranged from Kindergarteners to High Schoolers.
The skill level and focus from these young people were truly impressive.

Hoppin’ Good Time Egg Hunt

The Hoppin’ Good Time at Rowley Park was an exciting event featuring crafts, engaging activities, bounce houses, and, of course, egg hunts for everyone to enjoy!

What is the Easter Bunny's favorite kind of music?
Answer: Hip-hop!

HOPPIN BUNNY BREAKFAST

The Bunny Brunch Buffet was a delightful experience, offering a delicious breakfast followed by creative bunny crafts and festive egg hunts.

But where did the Easter Bunny eat breakfast?
Answer: IHOP

Senior candlelight dinner

The April Candlelight Dinner featured a whimsical Mad Hatter theme, and our seniors embraced the spirit with enthusiasm.
Everyone enjoyed a delicious dinner, lively music, dancing, and a fantastic costume contest.

Quarterly Employee Mixer

The Quarterly Mixer was held in April to recognize those promoted and newly hired for the 1st quarter.

Along with snacks and some fun games, employees celebrated employee success.

Transportation

Bus Stop Upgrades Pilot Project

GTrans has entered its community feedback phase for the Bus Stop Upgrades Pilot Project, focused on enhancing customer safety, comfort, and overall ease of use across the transit system. The pilot includes testing new features such as improved lighting and real-time arrival information at select stops throughout the City of Gardena. We encourage community members to share feedback and help shape these improvements.

Share your feedback: RideGTrans.com/BusStops

Police DEPARTMENT

2026 Scholarship Luncheon

The Gardena Police Foundation hosted its 2026 Scholarship Luncheon at the Nakaoka Community Center, awarding five incredible students scholarships totaling $80,000!

Congrats to the recipients and thank you to the Gardena Police Foundation and all those who helped contribute to make this happen.

Volunteer Mildred Castro retirement

Gardena PD had the honor of recognizing Mildred Castro as she officially retired after 24 years of dedicated volunteer service to the Gardena Police Department.
For over two decades, Mildred has given her time, energy, and unwavering support to GPD and the community we proudly serve.
Her commitment and generosity have made a lasting impact, and her presence will truly be missed.

Public Works Projects

Nakaoka Community Center Electrical System & Civic Center Outdoor Lighting Upgrades

Conduit runs were installed via directional bore. Trench excavation took place for the conduit runs.

EV Chargers

The newly installed EV chargers were tested. 

Compost Giveaway

The Compost Giveaway was held on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Rowley Park. 

The compost was free for all Gardena Residential Customers.  We had a record 335 cars.