City Clerk's Corner
🌟 Leaders of the Pledge 🌟
Building Pico Rivera’s Future Leaders. The City Clerk’s Office is proud to spotlight our Leaders of the Pledge program-an inspiring youth leadership opportunity that helps students build confidence, learn about local government, and take an active role in civic pride. Participants have a unique chance to engage with City leaders, represent their community, and lead the Pledge of Allegiance at a future City Council meeting. This program is all about empowering the next generation to lead with purpose, character, and heart, right here in Pico Rivera. For more information on how to register, please visit https://www.pico-rivera.org/our-city/city-council/ or contact the City Clerk’s office at cityclerk@pico-rivera.org.
Name Our Orange Winner Announced: Citrus Sam!
The City Clerk’s Office is excited to announce the official name of our “Name Our Orange” community initiative—Citrus Sam! Thanks to the incredible response from our community, we received over 80 name submissions, and the winning name was selected through votes by residents and members of the community. The two members of the community were recognized at the City Council Meeting on February 24 for their participation and engagement. Thank you to everyone who joined in—your involvement continues to make Pico Rivera a vibrant and connected community. Citrus Sam now looks forward to seeing all residents stay engaged and participate by voting in the upcoming Primary Elections on June 2, 2026!
Elections
The 2026 election cycle includes the Primary Election on June 2, 2026, followed by the City’s General Municipal Election and the Gubernatorial Election on November 3, 2026. The Office of the City Clerk has begun actively preparing for these upcoming elections. For the latest information on elections, voter registration, and election deadlines, please visit the City's elections webpage at https://www.pico-rivera.org/elections-and-voting/.
From the City Clerk’s Vault: Honoring the Women of Pico Rivera City Council
In recognition of International Women’s Month next month, the City Clerk’s Office is proud to open a special chapter from the City’s historical records to honor the women who have served on the Pico Rivera City Council. Within the pages of Council minutes, election results, and sworn Oaths of Office preserved in the City Clerk’s Vault, one thing is clear: women leaders have played a vital role in shaping Pico Rivera’s history. Since the City’s incorporation, women have stepped forward to lead with dedication, resilience, and a strong commitment to representing the community. Among those leaders is Ruth Benell, who served from January 29, 1958, through April 11, 1972, beginning with the City’s incorporation. She was followed by Beatriz Proo (April 14, 1992–March 8, 2007) and Helen O’Hara (April 12, 1994–March 6, 2001), whose years of service helped guide the City through important periods of growth and change. Gracie Gallegos-Smith served from March 6, 2007, to 2009, continuing this legacy of leadership, followed by Barbara Contreras Rapisarda, who served from April 13, 2010, through November 8, 2011. Today, that legacy continues with Dr. Monica Sanchez, who has served on the City Council since November 5, 2019. Local government is where community history is written in real time—through votes, policies, proclamations, and decisions that influence the daily lives of residents. The women who have held a seat on the City Council have helped guide those moments, leaving a lasting impact on the City we know today. This March, we recognize and thank every woman—past and present—who has served our community through Council leadership. Your contributions are not only part of Pico Rivera’s civic legacy, but also an inspiration for future generations. As the official recordkeeper for the City, the City Clerk’s Office is honored to preserve this history and share it with the public. We invite residents to join us in celebrating the women who have helped lead Pico Rivera forward—one meeting, one decision, and one milestone at a time.
Departmental Updates
Office of the City Manager
Rosemead/Lakewood (RoseWood) Complete Corridor Project Mobility Forum and Vision Plan Survey
On Thursday, February 19, the City of Pico Rivera held a Mobility Forum attended by members of the community, stakeholders, and local city partners. The City provided a general update on the grant funded project which seeks to improve connectivity along Rosemead and Lakewood boulevard between Pico Rivera and Rosemead, serving as a viable and safer alternative to the I-605, introducing concepts such as complete streets, bike infrastructure, bus rapid transit, synchronized traffic lights and more, providing timely and reliable connections between locations of interest such as Pico Rivera, Lakewood Mall, the Long Beach Airport, Long Beach VA, and Cal State Long Beach.
The Project Team is seeking your input on the draft recommendations and proposed alternatives for the RoseWood Complete Corridor Vision Plan. Your feedback is essential to ensure the final plan reflects the community’s needs and priorities. The survey will take approximately 10 minutes to complete and will close out by March 9, 2026. Visit the project website and complete the survey using the button below. Your voice matters!
Office of Sustainability/PRIME
2026 Earth Day Event
The City of Pico Rivera invites the community to come together to celebrate Earth Day on April 18, 2026! Join the City for a fun and meaningful day featuring a Community Cleanup, a Resource and Interactive Learning Fair, and a convenient Recycling Collection Drive-Thru. This event is a great opportunity to give back to our environment, learn about local sustainability resources, and celebrate our community’s commitment to a cleaner, greener Pico Rivera. Interested in contributing to your community? Join the Community Cleanup! The Earth Day Community Cleanup will take place from 9:00 to 11:00 AM at Rio Hondo Park, 8421 San Luis Potosí, Pico Rivera, CA 90660. Participants of all ages are welcome! Volunteers will assist with tree planting as well as park and riverbed cleanup. Sign up to participate in the Community Cleanup: 2026 Earth Day Volunteer Interest Form
Power Up with PRIME Power Choice
Summer is approaching, bringing hotter weather with its high electricity demands. Increased home energy use for lighting, cooling, and other activities can drive up utility costs. The PRIME Power Choice Program helps manage these seasonal spikes by using energy from solar panels and battery storage to keep costs affordable and reliable. Solar panels power homes by day and charge batteries for night use, avoiding peak rates. Batteries also provide backup power during outages. Learn More About PRIME Power Choice Via the Webinar Recording The Power Choice informational webinar is now available. The webinar provides an overview of benefits, enrollment steps, and resources to help residents make informed energy decisions. Watch the webinar here: https://youtu.be/5xC2We7be_Q. Ready to lock in on savings? Sign up today at poweredbyprime.org/power-choice.
"Sort it Right, Keep Our City Bright" Youth Art Competition
Have your artwork displayed throughout the City on NASA’s trash trucks! Participate in the “Sort It Right, Keep Our City Bright” Youth Art Competition and help turn Pico Rivera into a moving gallery of creativity and environmental pride. This fun and inspiring competition invites young artists to share their creativity while promoting recycling, composting, and food waste reduction. In partnership with NASA Services, selected designs will be featured on official waste collection trucks, transforming everyday City services into bold, eye-catching artwork seen by residents across the community. Winning artists will have their artwork showcased citywide and will receive a certificate of recognition from the City of Pico Rivera. Submissions are due by 5:00 PM on April 1, 2026, and can be dropped off at City Hall or submitted through students’ teachers. For full contest details, eligibility requirements, and submission instructions, visit: www.pico-rivera.org/youth-art-competition.
2026 Sunada Recycling Monthly Electronic Waste Events
The Office of Sustainability is partnering with Sunada Recycling to host free, monthly electronic waste (e-waste) recycling events for Pico Rivera residents and local businesses. These drive-thru events provide a safe and convenient way to recycle unwanted electronics without leaving your vehicle. Events will be held from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Pico Park, 9528 Beverly Blvd, Pico Rivera, CA 90660, on the following dates:
- February 21, 2026
- March 21, 2026
- May 16, 2026
- June 20, 2026
- July 18, 2026
- August 15, 2026
- September 19, 2026
- October 17, 2026
- November 21, 2026
- December 19, 2026
Accepted items include computers, televisions, printers, phones, and other electronic devices! Properly recycling electronic waste helps keep hazardous materials out of landfills, protects the environment, and supports the City’s sustainability efforts.
Electric Vehicle Charging Stations at Pico Rivera City Hall
The City of Pico Rivera invites the community to use the public electric vehicle (EV) charging ports located at the City Hall parking lot. These stations remain open to the community and provide a convenient option for residents to charge their electric vehicles while supporting clean and sustainable transportation. Scan the QR code posted at the charging stations or visit the following link to access EV charging station policies: EV Charging Station Policy Information.
Pico Rivera Women Bicycle Club and Walking Club
Join the Pico Rivera Women Bicycle Club and Walking Club to embrace a sustainable and healthy lifestyle while building community. Led by local resident Yvette Zea, these clubs encourage active lifestyles, active transportation, and strengthen connections across Pico Rivera. Beyond promoting cycling and walking, the clubs support long-term sustainability goals, reduce emissions, and contribute to the City’s active transportation network. Members also enjoy physical and mental health benefits, including staying active, relieving stress, meeting new people, and fostering community bonds. For more information, follow the club on social media: @picowomen_bicycleclub and @picoriverawalkingclub
Community and Economic Development
2026 Homeless Count
On January 21, 2026, the City participated in the annual Greater Los Angeles Homeless Count in coordination with the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA). The City extends its sincere appreciation to the residents and community volunteers who generously dedicated their time to assist with the local count effort. Their participation is critical to ensuring an accurate understanding of homelessness within our community. Final validated results from the regional count are anticipated to be released this summer.
Stop the Bleed Training
Several City staff recently volunteered to participate in a Stop the Bleed lifesaving training held on January 27, 2026. The course, developed through the national initiative led by the American College of Surgeons Committee on Trauma, equips participants with critical skills needed to respond to life-threatening bleeding emergencies before first responders arrive. The training was interactive and hands-on, including practical application of tourniquets, wound packing techniques, direct pressure methods, and a brief CPR refresher. This training strengthens the City’s overall emergency preparedness and ensures staff are better prepared to respond effectively during everyday incidents, disasters, or unforeseen emergencies.
Latina Independent Film Extravaganza
The City of Pico Rivera will host the Latina Independent Film Extravaganza on Saturday, March 7, 2026, beginning at 6:00 p.m. at Cinepolis Pico Rivera. Founded by pioneering filmmaker Josefina Lopez (Real Women Have Curves), the festival celebrates films directed by Latinas and promotes greater representation in the entertainment industry through screenings, panels, and networking opportunities. The event highlights the City’s commitment to supporting arts, culture, and inclusive community programming. Residents are encouraged to attend and secure tickets at www.lifefilmfestla.com.
Ventana Grand Opening - February 21, 2026
KB Home, one of the largest homebuilders in the U.S., held its grand opening of Ventana, a new gated 95-unit townhome development on Saturday February 21, 2026. Guests had the opportunity to tour model homes, meet the sales team, and enjoy an afternoon with catered food and live entertainment. The Mayor, City Manager, and Community and Economic Development Director attended the event to welcome prospective homeowners and support continued investment in quality housing within Pico Rivera. The Ventana sales office and model homes are open for walk-in visits and private in-person tours by appointment. Homebuyers also have the flexibility to arrange a live video tour with a sales counselor. https://www.kbhome.com/new-homes-los-angeles-and-ventura-county/ventana
Community Events & Programming Recap
Father Daughter Dance - February 7, 2026
The annual Father-Daughter Dance was held on Saturday, February 7th, 2026 at the Senior Center from 5-8pm. The event included crafts, activities, an Italian dinner, and a photo booth. Staff, along with Teen Club volunteers, helped make the highly anticipated event a huge success!
Upcoming Events & Programs
Grand Opening of Alebrije Dog Park - February 27, 2026
The City will celebrate the highly anticipated Grand Opening ceremony of the Alebrije Dog Park on Friday, February 27, with a special VIP-only event. This landmark project represents an approximately $2 million investment funded through State grant funding and City Capital Improvement funds, reflecting the City’s continued commitment to enhancing amenities that enrich residents’ everyday lives. More than just a park, Alebrije Dog Park embodies our community values—family, connection, wellness, and inclusivity. The park was thoughtfully designed with separate areas for small and large dogs, shaded seating, drinking fountains, lighting, and secure fencing, prioritizing safety and comfort for all. The Alebrije Dog Park is scheduled to open on this day and will operate daily from 7:00 a.m. to dusk, with closures on Thursdays for maintenance and on select holidays.
Easter Eggstravaganza - March 28, 2026
On March 28, 2026, the city will host its annual Easter Eggstravaganza! This event will include “eggciting" activities for the whole family. With inflatable amusements, free Magic Show, crafts, games, train rides, vendors, and the always-popular Easter Egg Hunt. Children who find eggs containing a Golden Ticket will have the opportunity to win "eggstra special" prizes!
Sights of our City
Stunning views, landmarks, and moments around Pico Rivera as captured by City Photographer Robert Moreno
Coming soon to Pico Rivera is Alebrije Dog Park on the corner of Rosemead Blvd & Gallatin Rd. The city’s first ever dog park, ready to have our furry friends have fun in the sun!