Council backs revival of Moreno Valley’s sister‑city program with San Juan de los Lagos

The Moreno Valley City Council unanimously voted on Nov. 4 to revive its sister‑city relationship with San Juan de los Lagos and to establish a community committee to guide activities and engagement.

City Manager Brian Millhand provided background from prior staff reports (including material from 2015–2016) and cited the original establishing resolution (No. 93‑57, adopted July 13, 1993). He said his research showed no subsequent resolution rescinding the sister‑city relationship, and that the relationship had been largely inactive in recent years.

Public commenters and commission members described the historical ties: student exchanges with Moreno Valley Unified School District, cultural exchanges, public safety training, humanitarian equipment donations and a commemorative street (Avenida Romelio Ruiz). Yvette Ruiz and other speakers said San Juan de los Lagos is a significant religious and cultural destination (one public speaker and councilmembers cited an annual pilgrimage figure of 7–9 million visitors) and argued for reengagement that could include cultural and economic opportunities.

Councilmember Gonzales moved to form a sister‑city committee composed of city representatives and community stakeholders (including school districts and cultural groups), to perform outreach and to return with recommendations within roughly 90 days. The motion passed 5‑0.

Council members stressed that the program would be community driven and low cost, aimed at cultural, educational and modest economic exchanges. Staff will prepare an implementation plan and return with a timeline and any budget implications for council review.