Residents, nonprofits urge Southgate to spare pool, museum and youth programs from cuts

A steady stream of public comments at the Southgate council meeting on April 14 focused on protecting the Southgate Aquatic Center, the municipal museum and cultural arts division, and youth sports that staff proposed cutting as part of a $9.4 million reduction plan.

Commissioners, parents, coaches and regional arts leaders described programs as lifelines for children and families and tied them to concrete benefits such as scholarships, mental health supports and regional cultural collaboration. "These programs give trust, discipline and opportunities — they are essential," said an arts advocate (speaker 31).

Parks commissioner Lisa Ruiz (speaker 21) and several swim coaches and athletes described the pool's role in creating scholarship pathways for local youth, while nonprofit arts directors said local programming is an "anchor" that unlocks outside funding and partnerships. The council heard requests to explore grant opportunities including county arts funds (Measure G) and to seek nonprofit or corporate sponsorships for key events.

Council and staff responses ranged from immediate commitments to pursue partnerships and sponsorships to frank admissions about the limited near-term fiscal flexibility. Acting Parks & Rec Director Tina De La Rosa (speaker 17) said cutting the cultural arts division would force the museum to close and eliminate classes, exhibits and festivals that many residents described as unique in Southeast Los Angeles.

Next steps: council members asked staff to return with feasible alternatives and potential partnerships that could preserve high-priority programs if possible. The meeting was continued to April 20 to allow staff and council subcommittees to present options.