MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR
COMMUNITY CHRONICLES: A RECAP OF EVENTS AND PROGRAMS
Holiday Tree Lighting
Duarte’s Annual Holiday Tree Lighting kicked off the season with a magical night of lights, music, and holiday traditions! The evening featured warm hot cocoa, festive tunes, and a special visit from Santa. The celebration created a bright and joyful start to the holidays in Duarte.
Snow Nite
Snow Nite at Beardslee Park was filled with winter fun and holiday cheer. Families bundled up to play in the snow, race down the sled runs, and enjoy the rides. It was a joyful evening spent making memories together!
Santa Claus is Coming to Duarte
Santa Claus brought holiday magic to the streets as Santa waved to neighbors and spread cheer throughout the city. The festive visit celebrated the spirit of the season and the strong sense of community that makes Duarte so special!
At the Duarte City Council meeting on Tuesday, December 9, the Council hosted its annual reorganization and selected Tera Martin Del Campo, District 4, to represent Duarte as Mayor and Samuel Kang, District 5, as Mayor Pro Tem. Each position serves a one-year term. “I am grateful for this opportunity and deeply committed to moving Duarte forward with integrity, transparency, and collaboration,” said newly appointed Mayor Martin Del Campo. “Together, we will continue making thoughtful investments in our neighborhoods and ensuring Duarte remains a community we are all proud to call home.” Tera Martin Del Campo’s parents migrated from England to the United States in the 1970s and purchased their first home here in Duarte. She is a proud alumna of Duarte Unified School District and is continuing the tradition as she and her husband are raising their three sons, two dogs, and bearded dragon here in her hometown. She is a member of the Royal Oaks STEAM Academy PTO Board, where two of her sons attend, and also serves as Team Mom for the Duarte High School Varsity Football team, where her oldest son plays. Mayor Martin Del Campo brings extensive experience in public-sector auditing and oversight, particularly in Risk Management and Workers’ Compensation. In her role as Chief Operating Officer, she has built a reputation as a thoughtful, results-driven leader known for her analytical approach and her commitment to compassionate, forward-looking problem-solving. Mayor Pro Tem Samuel Kang has served as Duarte Mayor twice before, as well as currently serving on a number of boards and committees such as SGVCOG and the California League of Cities. “I am very passionate about this city. We can do anything we put our minds to,” said Mayor Pro Tem Kang. Representatives from the offices of Congressman Gil Cisneros, California State Senator Susan Rubio, Assemblywoman Blanca Rubio, and Supervisor Kathryn Barger presented a certificate of recognition to former Mayor Cesar A. Garcia and offered acknowledgements for his great service. For additional information about the Duarte City Council, please visit CityofDuarte.ca.gov or contact the City Manager’s Office at (626) 357-7931.
The City of Duarte Public Safety Department is sharing information regarding a successful multi-agency rescue that took place on Thursday, November 20, in the foothills above Bradbury Canyon. At 6:33 PM on Thursday, November 20, a 15-year old hiker called 911 after becoming stranded in deteriorating weather conditions. The teen had set out earlier in the day but was unable to make his way out as rain and cold weather intensified. The Duarte Public Safety drone team deployed immediately and located the teen on a ridge approximately half a mile northeast of Bliss Canyon Road using thermal imaging. This rapid identification allowed responding crews to focus their search area and coordinate an effective response. Sierra Madre Search and Rescue, SMSR, along with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, deployed resources and moved through heavy brush and unstable terrain to reach the teen. SMSR teams arrived at approximately 8:30 PM, conducted a medical assessment, and determined he was mildly hypothermic. Crews provided dry clothing, warming measures, and assisted him downhill to an extraction point. A Los Angeles County Fire Department helicopter then hoisted the teen from the ridge for further medical evaluation. SMSR personnel later hiked out safely. “This rescue showed the strength of coordinated public safety response,” said Larry Breceda, Director of Public Safety for the City of Duarte. “Our new drone program proved essential in quickly locating the hiker and giving ground crews the information they needed. I’m proud of the teamwork between our Public Safety staff, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Sierra Madre Search and Rescue, and LA County Fire. Their quick actions ensured this young man received the help he needed.” Public Safety officials also commended the teen for calling 911 immediately and sheltering in place, which helped rescuers locate him efficiently in challenging conditions.
The City of Duarte is pleased to announce the completion of the Huntington Drive Median Islands Landscape Improvements Project, marking another significant step in the City’s commitment to maintaining safe, attractive, and efficient roadways. The project focused on enhancing the 28 landscaped medians along Huntington Drive, stretching from Mountain Avenue to Encanto Parkway, improving both the aesthetics and functionality of Duarte’s streetscape. The project included the removal of existing concrete, turf, and selective trees and shrubs to install new decorative rock, mulch, and water-efficient landscaping. A total of 42 new trees and 2,540 drought-resistant plants were planted along the 28 islands, contributing to Duarte’s ongoing efforts to promote environmental sustainability throughout the community. The project also includes upgraded irrigation systems, new drought-tolerant landscaping, and refreshed hardscape features designed to reduce long-term maintenance costs and water usage. Construction was performed by FS Contractors, which successfully completed the work within the City Council–approved project timeline and budget of about $2.5 million. City staff conducted thorough inspections to ensure all work met the design and safety standards outlined in the construction agreement. With the project now finalized and formally accepted by the City Council, residents can enjoy the enhanced medians that contribute to a safer, more visually appealing community. The City extends its appreciation to its residents for their patience during construction as we continue to improve local infrastructure and beautify public spaces throughout Duarte.
Community Spotlight
Duarte Recognizes Route 66 Parade Committee for Bringing Back a Beloved Tradition
At the October 14, 2025 Duarte City Council meeting, the City proudly recognized the Duarte Route 66 Parade Committee for their dedication and hard work in bringing back one of the community’s most cherished traditions, the Duarte Route 66 Parade. After a brief hiatus, the Parade made its exciting return this year with the inspiring theme “City of Champions.” The event celebrated Duarte’s community spirit, resilience, and pride, drawing together residents, local organizations, and visitors for a day filled with classic cars, energetic performances, and joyful celebration along Historic Route 66. The success of the parade was made possible thanks to the tireless efforts of the Duarte Route 66 Parade Committee, whose members devoted countless hours to planning, coordination, and outreach to ensure the event’s safe and memorable return. Their passion and commitment exemplify what makes Duarte a true City of Champions. The City of Duarte extends its heartfelt appreciation to the Parade Committee for their outstanding work in reviving this community favorite and continuing the legacy of celebrating Duarte’s history and unity along the Mother Road.
UPCOMING EVENTS
2026 Homeless Count
There is still time to register as a volunteer for our 2026 Homeless Count happening on Wednesday, January 21 starting at 8 PM at the Duarte Senior Center (1610 Huntington Drive). A small time commitment makes a big impact! Register today at TheyCountWillYou.org.
Lunar New Year Celebration
Celebrate the Lunar New Year with us on Saturday, February 21 from 5–8 PM at the Duarte City Hall Courtyard (1600 Huntington Drive)! Enjoy live cultural performances, a vibrant night market, delicious food, traditional games and crafts, and so much more.