San Gabriel council appoints subcommittee to interview consultants for general plan update

The San Gabriel City Council voted 5-0 on July 15 to appoint a subcommittee to interview consulting firms shortlisted to lead a general plan update.

Acting Community Development Director Toussaint told the council that a general plan is a state‑required policy document guiding long‑term growth and that San Gabriel's plan was last comprehensively updated in 2004. He described the general plan as covering a 15–20 year horizon and said mandatory elements typically include land use, circulation, housing, conservation, open space, noise, safety and environmental justice, with optional elements such as cultural and economic resources.

The city issued a request for proposals and received seven responses; staff narrowed the list to three firms. Toussaint told council the cost estimates presented represent the ceiling for a comprehensive update and that a more focused update could cost less.

Mayor Menchaca appointed Vice Mayor Chan and Councilmember Herrera Avila as the subcommittee to interview the three consulting firms; staff and additional planning staff will join the interviews. The subcommittee will return to the full council with a recommendation. The motion to appoint the two councilmembers and to authorize them to interview the firms passed 5-0.

Council members discussed whether to pursue a comprehensive update or a more focused approach; staff said the interviewing subcommittee could probe whether firms could recommend a narrower, lower‑cost approach. Toussaint emphasized the importance of public participation in the general plan process, noting outreach to community groups, tribes, school districts and public agencies would be part of the update if the council moves forward.

The council did not select a consultant at the July 15 meeting; the subcommittee will complete interviews and report back with a recommendation.