Duarte forms Olympic ad hoc committee to explore LA28 activation, adds 2026 FIFA to scope

The Duarte City Council voted Oct. 28 to form an ad hoc committee to explore possible ways the city can participate in or benefit from the LA28 Summer Olympics, including submitting a venue list, recruiting pre-training delegations and planning fan zones or viewing parties.

Assistant to the City Manager Duncan told the council the ad hoc would examine venues, partnership opportunities and ways to activate the city during the Olympic period. Staff recommended committee membership include up to three council members plus representatives from Duarte Unified School District, CS Arts, City of Hope and other stakeholders to leverage local facilities. During discussion council members also requested the committee consider the 2026 FIFA World Cup opportunities and invite representatives of the local chamber and service clubs to participate.

Councilmembers Finley, Truong and Mayor Garcia were named to the committee. Members discussed the potential for cooperation with neighboring cities (Arcadia, Monrovia, Azusa) and with regional transit and noted that LA28 organizers have said limited direct funding is available; many activities will depend on local coordination and pooled resources. Councilmembers emphasized that any city-hosted activation would likely require further council approvals for budget or permit actions.

The motion to form the ad hoc committee and appoint members passed by unanimous voice vote.