Perris council renames Cesar Chavez library and refers murals, statue decisions to Parks & Rec

The Perris City Council voted on April 14 to rename the Cesar Chavez Library and to refer public‑art decisions to the Parks & Recreation committee after a series of emotional public comments and staff options were presented.

City staff explained options and estimated costs: covering or rewrapping a utility box (~$900); repainting or modifying the library mural; options for the bronze sculpture (removal estimated at roughly $5,000; modification $100,000–$200,000; full replacement up to $500,000); and changing the building façade/plaque (up to about $25,000). Staff said the cultural‑arts funding that paid for the monument came from developer fees, not the general fund.

Speakers were divided. Some residents and community organizations urged renaming and monument removal in light of allegations that have surfaced about Cesar Chavez’s conduct; others—some with direct memories of farmwork and community organizing—asked the council to preserve the movement’s history and to involve the community in next steps. A coalition speaker representing Luz Gallegos read a statement urging the council to ‘‘stand with survivors’’ while also centering the farmworker movement’s collective history.

Councilman Raab moved to rename the facility the City of Perris Public Library (rendering options requested) and to refer the utility wrap, mural and bronze sculpture to Parks & Recreation for community engagement and recommendation. The motion passed unanimously. Councilmembers asked staff to produce renderings showing alternative signage (e.g., adding the word "Public") before spending funds on façade changes.

Council members emphasized the need for community input and for careful stewardship of the city’s public‑art process. Staff noted costs and funding sources for each option and said the cultural‑arts fee, paid by developers, funded the bronze sculpture.