Monterey Park · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Monterey Park public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Barnes Park Aquatic Center funding
A new nonprofit, Align With Purpose, launched a campaign to rebuild the Barnes Park pool, raising nearly $3,000 at the Cherry Blossom Festival.
January 21, 2023 Memorial
On the shooting's third anniversary, the council approved a memorial concept at the Demonstration Garden featuring a moon gate, grove of trees, and dance space. Some survivors' advocates wanted the location reconsidered before the vote.
Langley Senior Center Support
The Friends of the Seniors returned to active duty with a $29,510 gift for new furniture, exercise bikes and games at Langley Center, backed by a $600,000 endowment left by longtime director Beth Ryan.
Commission on Aging leadership election
The commission was scheduled to pick its Chair and Vice-Chair for the next year. These leaders shape how the commission advocates for Monterey Park's older residents.
Seating of new Commissioner Ling Hwang
Newly appointed Commissioner Ling Hwang was scheduled to be sworn in by the City Clerk and receive the commissioner handbook. She joins the panel that advises the city on senior issues.
Recreation and Community Services statewide awards
The department won four California Park & Recreation Society awards — the only city in California to receive four — for programs including the SGV Pride Parade & Festival, Electric Park music event, and senior-youth partnerships.
Butterfly Garden Program in City Parks
The commission approved a new program to establish butterfly gardens in local city parks, boosting native plants and pollinators. This initiative enhances green spaces and provides educational opportunities for residents and families.
Citywide tennis and pickleball court resurfacing
Monterey Park is resurfacing courts at every city park, funded by Los Angeles County Measure A. Barnes Park, George Elder Park, Garvey Ranch Park, Sequoia Park, and Sunny Slope Park are done; Highlands Park and Bella Vista are next. It's a win for the city's big pickleball and tennis communities.
Semiquincentennial Mural at Barnes Park
Local artists Giorgiko (Darren and Trisha Inouye) will paint a 30-by-12-foot mural on the Barnes Park gymnasium wall celebrating America's 250th birthday, with the phrase "Faith in the Future" from the city motto, unveiled at the June 27 fireworks celebration.
Splash Pad Planning
The winning pool design doesn't include a splash pad, which families (and absent Council Member Sanchez) wanted. The council directed staff to look for splash pad locations around the city, possibly as a faster standalone project.
Sierra Vista Park Tongva-themed playground
The city is replacing its oldest playground with a first-of-its-kind Gabrielino Tongva-themed play structure, developed with the tribe, including native plants and a tribal artist mural.
Barnes Park family camp-out
The city will host its first MPK Camp Out in Barnes Park on June 12–13, 2026 — tents, a Moana movie night, s'mores with the fire department, and a special permit to stay overnight in a park that normally closes at 10:30 p.m.