Montclair marks 70th anniversary and honors 12 volunteers at special council meeting

Montclair’s City Council held a special meeting on April 20, 2026, to mark the city’s 70th anniversary and to recognize a dozen local volunteers for their service to community programs.

County Supervisor Kurt Hagman congratulated the city on its milestone and praised volunteers as the “rocks of the community,” then joined Rosa Rangel, chair of the Montclair Community Activities Commission, in presenting certificates of recognition. "Happy birthday, City of Montclair," Hagman said during his remarks.

Rosa Rangel described the commission’s volunteer recognition program, noting the commission has honored outstanding volunteers for decades. "The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the grandest intentions," Rangel said, quoting Oscar Wilde as she outlined the program and invited honorees forward.

Twelve individuals were recognized for a range of services: Vanessa Lara was honored for leadership in her school parent‑teacher organization and organizing teacher appreciation events; a volunteer identified as Dan Fur received recognition for dependable work at the Care and Company hygiene pantry; Joanne Walker was cited for more than 20 years of service at the Christian Development Center; a long‑serving senior‑center volunteer (not present) was honored on her behalf; a youth volleyball coach (named in the transcript as Josei) was recognized for securing about $600 in equipment and coaching duties; Romelissa Solis was honored for her service at Foothill Family Shelter, including pantry operations and the annual Thanksgiving event; John Habner was recognized for his work delivering meals with Montclair Meals on Wheels; Gail Taylor was cited for leadership with the women’s club and support for Alzheimer’s families; Anne Robbins and Michelle Hanchett were honored for managing the "We Got Your Back" student food bank at Montclair High School; Dr. Michael Hasso was recognized for mentoring medical students and expanding services at the Montclair Medical Clinic; and Lorenzo Robles was praised for revitalizing the Montclair Community Garden, including installing solar lights and improving infrastructure.

Rangel thanked staff, elected‑office representatives and the volunteer pool, and invited attendees to a post‑reception at the senior center. The meeting concluded with a note that a formal proclamation would be read at 7 p.m. and an adjournment.

The program emphasized volunteer contributions across senior services, food assistance, youth programs and community gardening. No formal motions or votes were taken at the meeting; the event was primarily ceremonial and informational.