Long Beach plans July celebrations and recognizes lifelong resident Scott Kemmons

The Long Beach City Council convened on July 1, 2025, to discuss various community events and administrative matters. The meeting began with announcements regarding upcoming holiday schedules and events. City Hall, the Magnolia Center, Recreation Center, and ICE Arena will be closed on Independence Day, July 4th, while buses will operate on a holiday schedule. Regular sanitation services will continue as usual.

The Sean Ryan Memorial Race is scheduled for the morning of July 4th on the Boardwalk, with a fun run starting at 8 AM and a 4K race at 8:30 AM. Additionally, the city's annual fireworks display will take place next Friday, July 11th, with a rain date set for Saturday, July 12th. The meeting also highlighted the annual Arts and Crafts Festival, which will occur on the Boardwalk at Riverside from 10 AM to 6 PM on both July 12th and 13th, featuring over 200 vendors.

City officials recognized the lifeguards for their exceptional service during the early opening of the beaches, which occurred a week ahead of schedule. This decision proved beneficial, as lifeguards managed several emergency situations, including eight major EMT calls and two water rescues, emphasizing the importance of their presence during peak beach attendance.

The meeting also celebrated Scott Kemmons, a dedicated civil servant who marked 45 years of service with the City of Long Beach. His extensive career includes roles as a special police officer, fire dispatcher, and deputy commissioner of the fire department, among others.

The council then moved on to discuss a resolution authorizing a budget amendment for the capital projects fund. This amendment involves reallocating $22,426.07 from a $100,000 grant received from the Department of Agriculture for tree planting initiatives. The funds will support the next round of tree plantings, with discussions on the specifications of the trees being planted.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city's commitment to community engagement through events and the recognition of dedicated personnel, while also addressing important budgetary matters for ongoing projects.