Overview

Cerritos, California, made history on March 26, 2025, during its Annual Mayoral Transition and Oath of Office ceremony, where the city welcomed its newly elected city council. The event, held at the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts, drew around 700 attendees, marking a significant moment in the city’s journey towards inclusivity and representation.

This ceremony celebrated several groundbreaking achievements, including the first-ever female majority on the City Council and the first all-Asian council in the city's history.

Key details

  • First female majority on the Cerritos City Council.
  • First time three Filipino American councilmembers were elected.
  • First all-Asian City Council in Cerritos history.
  • New councilmembers sworn in include Mark E. Pulido, Jennifer Hong, and Sophia Tse.
  • Returning members are Frank Aurelio Yokoyama and Lynda P. Johnson.
  • Frank Aurelio Yokoyama was selected as Mayor.
  • Yokoyama has a background in law and business, with degrees from UC Berkeley and Harvard Law School.
  • Yokoyama emphasizes public safety, fiscal stewardship, and community enrichment as mayoral priorities.
  • Lynda P. Johnson was appointed as Mayor Pro Tem.
  • Johnson is the first Filipina American elected to the Cerritos City Council.
  • Johnson has a background in law enforcement and previously served on the ABC Unified School District Board.
  • Jennifer Hong is a long-time resident and small business owner with extensive civic involvement.

Context

The swearing-in ceremony not only reflects the changing demographics of Cerritos but also highlights the city’s commitment to diversity and representation in local governance.

What happens next

The newly elected council members are expected to work collaboratively to address community needs and priorities, focusing on public safety, youth engagement, and small business development.

What we don't know yet

Details regarding specific initiatives or policies the new council plans to implement have not been confirmed.