Overview

Cerritos Mayor Chuong Vo delivered the State of the City address on September 21 at the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts. This event, organized by the Cerritos Regional Chamber of Commerce, marked the first address since 2019 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Mayor Vo expressed his joy at reconnecting with the community and highlighted the city's ongoing commitment to health and safety during the pandemic while also advancing various projects.

In his address, Vo outlined several recent accomplishments and improvements made in Cerritos, showcasing the city's resilience and progress over the past few years.

Key details

  • Online Permit Portal: Launched in late 2021, the first phase of the online permit portal allows various business license services to be accessed online, funded by grants from the Southern California Association of Governments and the California Department of Housing and Community Development.
  • Revolve: The city-owned property at 12616 183rd Street was remodeled and completed in March 2022. Approximately $6.3 million in one-time revenues helped offset construction costs, and it is now leased to Revolve Clothing.
  • New Businesses: Significant upgrades and remodels were completed at various locations, including the Targets on Bloomfield Avenue and South Street, Norm Reeves Hyundai Super Store, and Christensen Shopping Center.
  • Amazon Fresh: The building previously occupied by Toys R Us underwent improvements and reopened in January 2021 as an Amazon Fresh grocery store.
  • Pine Tree Reforestation Program: In early 2021, the City Council modified the program to prioritize tree removals based on damage caused. Last fiscal year, over 100 pine trees were removed.
  • Autumn Moon Festival: The city hosted its inaugural Autumn Moon Festival on September 10 at Heritage Park, featuring lantern releases, music, food, and fortune cookies.
  • Community Engagement: Mayor Vo emphasized the importance of community connection during the address, noting the positive atmosphere of the gathering.
  • Health and Safety Focus: Throughout the pandemic, the city maintained a commitment to the health and safety of its residents while continuing to push forward with city projects.
  • Future Projects: Mayor Vo hinted at upcoming projects and events but did not provide specific details during the address.

Context

The State of the City address serves as a platform for the mayor to communicate the city's achievements and future plans to residents, especially after a prolonged period of restrictions due to the pandemic.

What happens next

As the city moves forward, residents can anticipate more updates regarding upcoming projects and events, which were briefly mentioned by Mayor Vo during his address.

What we don't know yet

Details regarding specific upcoming projects and events were not provided, and further information about the city's future initiatives is currently unconfirmed.