City Council unanimously designates two Terminal Island buildings as historic

The Los Angeles City Council voted 14-0 to designate two remaining buildings on Terminal Island as historic-cultural monuments, a move supporters said preserves the physical memory of a once-vibrant Japanese American fishing community that was displaced during World War II.

Councilmember Macosker introduced the request, recounting Terminal Island's history as a Japanese American fishing village and the community's loss after Pearl Harbor and subsequent internment. "A la isla terminal ... fueron 20 años mi nacimiento de estos años," Macosker said, describing the community's erasure and the two buildings that remain as tangible links to that history.

Advocates and local preservation groups urged the council to act. Wolf Fu Gioka, identified as a community member and historic-preservation advocate, told councilmembers the two buildings are among the few remaining structures that convey the island's history. Paul Harrozzi Boye9, who described himself as president of a local association, and Andrew Somillian, director of advocacy at the Los Angeles Conservancy, also spoke in favor of designation, saying the move would protect the site and allow restoration work.

Supporters described the vote as a restitution of memory and a way to ensure the island's story remains visible. Councilmembers cited cooperation with the Port of Los Angeles and community stakeholders in bringing the measure forward.

The council opened, closed and tabulated the vote during the meeting; the tally was announced as 14 in favor. Councilmember Macosker urged colleagues to approve the designation so the buildings could be repaired and serve as a living reminder for future generations.

The council took the vote immediately after the public comment period and announced the result on the dais. The item will be followed by implementation steps coordinated among city staff, the Port of Los Angeles and community partners, according to remarks on the floor.