New city manager commits to improving community communication and addressing budget concerns

In the heart of West Covina, a palpable sense of frustration filled the air during the recent Community Budget Workshop held on May 29, 2025. Residents gathered, eager to voice their concerns about the city’s financial priorities, which they feel have long been overlooked. As the meeting unfolded, one resident passionately articulated a sentiment echoed by many: the community's top priorities—police and infrastructure—have consistently been sidelined in favor of what they deem lower priorities, such as health services and community events.

The resident's remarks highlighted a recurring theme at these workshops: a perceived disconnect between the city council's budget decisions and the community's needs. “It’s frustrating to sit here and feel like nobody’s listening,” they lamented, urging the new city manager to break this cycle of neglect and to create a budget that truly reflects the residents' priorities.

In response, the new city manager acknowledged the community's frustrations, promising a shift towards greater responsiveness and accountability. “I’ve heard those concerns, and they don’t fall on deaf ears,” he stated, emphasizing his commitment to improving communication between city officials and residents. He assured attendees that every concern would be addressed, whether through direct replies or by directing inquiries to the appropriate city staff.

The city manager also recognized past shortcomings in responsiveness, vowing to foster a culture of transparency and open dialogue. “Moving forward, you will be heard, and you will receive a prompt reply,” he affirmed, inviting residents to hold him accountable for this commitment.

As the workshop continued, questions arose regarding the city’s financial health, including inquiries about a recent budget survey and the implications of rising liabilities. The city manager confirmed that the survey, open from December to May, aimed to gather community input on budget priorities, a step towards bridging the gap between residents and city officials.

The evening concluded with a sense of cautious optimism. While the path ahead remains challenging, the new leadership’s promise to listen and respond to community concerns offers a glimmer of hope for West Covina residents eager for change. As they left the meeting, many carried with them a renewed sense of agency, hopeful that their voices would finally shape the future of their city.