Councilmembers Rodriguez and Soto‑Martinez led a formal recognition of Sandra Figueroa Villa on Nov. 7, praising her decades of leadership as executive director of El Centro del Pueblo and announcing plans to dedicate the corner of Sunset Boulevard and Lemoyne Street as “Sandra Figueroa Villa Square.”

Speakers credited Villa with growing El Centro del Pueblo from a small operation with two part‑time staff and a $25,000 deficit into a nationally recognized social‑service organization with dozens of staff and a multi‑million dollar annual budget. Councilmembers and State Senator Maria Elena Durazo highlighted the center’s role providing culturally competent services, food distribution, youth and senior programs, and mental‑health support.

Sandra Figueroa Villa spoke briefly, thanking staff, family and Council members. “Standing here at City Hall means so much to me,” she said, describing the organization as a community anchor and thanking staff and volunteers.

Why it matters: The designation recognizes a long-serving community leader and signals the city’s intent to enshrine local civic history in public spaces. The center provides direct services to residents in Echo Park and adjacent neighborhoods.

What the Council did: The recognition was ceremonial at the Nov. 7 session; Councilmembers announced the planned dedication of the square and pledged to schedule the unveiling.

Who spoke: Councilmembers Rodriguez and Soto‑Martinez; Senator Maria Elena Durazo; Sandra Figueroa Villa; community leaders and staff from El Centro del Pueblo.