Montebello honors outgoing Mayor Salvador Melendez with civic commendations

Outgoing Mayor Salvador Melendez received multiple recognitions from state and county officials, neighboring cities, and local organizations during the council’s Dec. 9 reorganization meeting.

California State Senator Bob Archuleta presented a certificate on behalf of the state and praised Montebello’s community events and development, saying the city is "the greatest city in California" while congratulating Mayor Melendez on his service. Antonio Chapa, district director for Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda Solis, presented a county commendation dated Dec. 9, 2025, recognizing Melendez’s public service. Representatives from Congresswoman Linda Sanchez’s office also offered a certificate and tokens of appreciation on behalf of their office.

Local organizations honored Melendez as well. The Montebello Chamber of Commerce’s executive director Adriana Dugan spoke for the chamber’s board and members; the Montebello Firefighters Association’s president, Zachary Humber, described department accomplishments secured during Melendez’s term, including progress on hazardous materials training and canine/arson-detection resources. Fire Chief Fernando Belayas presented a departmental memento signifying leadership in the fire service.

Those remarks collectively cited Melendez’s efforts to help families affected by federal immigration enforcement actions and to support local public safety staffing and training. Presenters recommended continued collaboration among neighboring jurisdictions and community groups as Montebello transitions to new leadership.

The recognitions were ceremonial; no formal council action was taken as part of these presentations.