City Council appoints Chan and Herrera Avila to consulting firm selection subcommittee

In a recent City Council meeting held on July 15, 2025, the San Gabriel City Council focused on the critical task of selecting a consulting firm for the city's general plan update. The meeting underscored the importance of this decision, as the chosen firm will play a significant role in shaping the city's development over the next few years.

The council's primary action item involved appointing two council members, Vice Mayor Chan and Council Member Herrera Avila, to a subcommittee tasked with interviewing three consulting firms that city staff had shortlisted. This step is crucial as the selected firm will engage in extensive public outreach and stakeholder meetings, ensuring community input is integrated into the planning process.

During the discussions, Council Member Wu sought clarification on the elements included in the general plan update, highlighting the addition of economic development, community design, and cultural resources to the existing framework. Staff clarified that these additions reflect typical state requirements rather than changes to the current general plan.

The council emphasized that the subcommittee's role is not to make final decisions but to gather information and present recommendations to the full council. This process aims to ensure that the council is comfortable with the selected firm, given the long-term implications of the general plan update.

The meeting concluded with a unanimous vote to appoint the subcommittee, marking a significant step in the city's planning efforts. As the council moves forward, the community can anticipate further engagement opportunities as the selected firm begins its work. The council's commitment to involving its members in the selection process reflects a dedication to transparency and community involvement in shaping San Gabriel's future.