Overview

The City of Cerritos, a member of the California Joint Powers Insurance Authority (California JPIA), is celebrating its 70th anniversary this year. The city has evolved from its agricultural origins as Dairy Valley to a thriving suburban community. A series of community events and initiatives have been planned to honor this significant milestone.

Founded in 1956, Cerritos was originally known for its dairy farming, with more cows than people at the time. The city underwent a transformation in 1967 when it changed its name from Dairy Valley and embraced suburban development following a zoning shift approved by voters in 1965.

Key details

  • Cerritos was founded in 1956 as Dairy Valley and was primarily an agricultural community.
  • The city was renamed Cerritos in 1967 after a zoning change allowed for suburban development.
  • Cerritos became the fastest-growing city in California between 1970 and 1972.
  • The City Council approved a detailed General Plan to guide development.
  • A bronze sculpture titled “Milking Time—A Tribute to Dairy Valley” will be dedicated at the Cerritos Civic Center this spring.
  • The sculpture features a cow, a farmer, his children, and a dog.
  • A “Name the Cow” contest was held, with the winning name being Bessie, submitted by six residents.
  • A Spring Fling & Fireworks Spectacular is scheduled for April 25, from 4:00 to 8:30 p.m. at the Cerritos Sports Complex.
  • The anniversary celebration will include a welcome from the Mayor, dance recitals, a concert, games, crafts, food trucks, and fireworks.
  • The Cerritos Library will launch “StoryCorps: Voices of Cerritos—A Celebration of 70 Years,” inviting community members to record conversations.
  • The library is also hosting its 27th annual Contests for Talented Teens, with themes related to the city’s history and future.
  • Cerritos has been a member of the California JPIA since April 1, 1978, benefiting from its support in risk management and professional development.

Context

The city has maintained a strong sense of community pride throughout its 70 years, largely due to the dedication of its staff and the support from the California JPIA.

What happens next

As Cerritos continues its anniversary celebrations, residents can look forward to engaging community events and initiatives that highlight the city’s rich history and future aspirations.

What we don't know yet

Details regarding the specific date of the sculpture dedication and the exact number of attendees expected at the anniversary events have not been confirmed.