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Bell Gardens proclaims July 'Parks Make Life Better' month, honors parks staff
Summary
The Bell Gardens City Council on June 22 proclaimed July as "Parks Make Life Better" month, praised the Recreation and Community Services team and took a group photo with staff. A public commenter urged more supervision at parks.
On June 22, 2026, the Bell Gardens City Council and its successor agency proclaimed July as "Parks Make Life Better" month and recognized the city's Recreation and Community Services staff for their work on parks, pools and community programming. The ceremonial proclamation was signed by Mayor Miguel de la Rosa.
Liz Nava, director of recreation and community services, told the council the department provides programs, parks and activities "that make life better," and thanked staff for their work assembling the department's summer schedule. "They represent the city well," Nava said as she described events, the aquatic center and other facilities the department manages.
The proclamation text — read during the meeting — noted parks' role promoting physical and mental health, supporting local economic activity, fostering social cohesion and providing opportunities for youth and seniors. After the reading, council members and staff posed for a photograph with the parks team.
During public comment, Edwin Gonzales urged the council to "give strong consideration to all the positive things" parks provide while also warning about oversight: "Parks open but without supervision. That is unprofessional," he said, urging attention to staffing and safety. Council members acknowledged the comment; no formal action on supervision or staffing levels was taken at the meeting.
The item was ceremonial; the council moved on to the consent calendar and other agenda business following the proclamation and photo.
