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Council endorses permanent home and annual recognition for Mexican Liberty Bell; staff to identify secure City Hall location
Summary
Council voted to establish a permanent home for La Campana de la Libertad and to adopt El Grito as an annual city event; the bell will remain secured at City Hall until a permanent site is chosen.
The San Fernando City Council on Oct. 6 voted to establish a permanent home for La Campana de la Libertad, the Mexican Liberty Bell donated to the city in 2023, and to recognize El Grito de Independencia as a permanent annual city event.
Councilmember Joe Fajardo introduced the item, noting community leaders who facilitated the donation. The staff report recommended locating the bell where it would be publicly visible, secure and accessible; staff suggested City Hall as the preferred site and recommended a design such as a small tower outside the council chamber or courthouse area to allow ceremonial ringing while minimizing vandalism risk.
Council approved direction for staff to seek community input, confer with the donors and return with design and funding options. Councilmembers discussed possible funding sources including philanthropic contributions or budget allocations; staff also noted the option to retain the bell temporarily at City Hall while the permanent site is developed.
The motion passed unanimously. Staff will prepare cost estimates and options for the council’s consideration and will consult with Javier and Ruben, community members who helped secure the donation, on siting and ceremony plans.
