Joshua Barone was sworn in as mayor of South Gate on Dec. 9, 2025 after a council vote following public comment and formal nomination. The council also appointed Al Rios as vice mayor and administered oaths of office to the newly selected leaders.

The council opened the reorganization item by reading that the body would nominate and select a mayor and vice mayor for one-year terms. Council members agreed to hear public comment before the vote; several residents and community leaders urged support for Barone, citing his volunteer work and community ties. Liz Reese said she had ‘‘seen his interaction with the public several times online, answering and always helping folks,’’ and Caitlin Barone described him as someone who ‘‘believes in service’’ and ‘‘will lead with heart and with integrity.’’

After the public remarks, council conducted a roll call and the motion to appoint Barone passed. The clerk then administered the oath of office, during which Barone pledged to ‘‘support and defend the Constitution of the United States and the constitution of the state of California.’’ In brief remarks after being sworn, Barone said, “It is a true honor to first serve my community… I want you to stay in it as long as you can,” and emphasized collaboration with council and staff.

Council later opened nominations for vice mayor and nominated Al Rios, who received public endorsements from residents and colleagues. The council approved the nomination by roll call. Remarks at the time highlighted Rios’s history of community service and experience with local boards; Rios accepted the appointment and later repeated the oath for vice mayor.

The meeting also included a presentation of a plaque to outgoing Mayor Maria Davila recognizing her leadership during the past year (noted in the plaque as service from 12/10/2024 through 12/09/2025). Speakers credited Davila with long-term regional advocacy on issues including school funding and community projects. Dr. Francis Adel Sanchez of Bell Gardens and others thanked Davila for her service.

Votes at a glance:
- Motion to appoint Joshua Barone as mayor: passed by roll call.
- Motion to appoint Al Rios as vice mayor: passed by roll call.

The council indicated it will continue customary reporting back to the public about regional board meetings and work of appointed representatives. The reorganization items concluded with community congratulations and a reception outside the chamber.