2024 State of the City Event

Lomita Celebrates Progress and Promise at 2024 State of the City Event

Lomita, CA – November 21, 2024 – The Lomita Chamber of Commerce hosted the annual State of the City event in collaboration with the City of Lomita, marking a record-breaking turnout as the community came together to celebrate  accomplishments and look ahead to a bright future. Held at the Lomita Park Tom Rico Center/Marc Fosnaugh Gym, the event honored the city’s 60th anniversary and featured remarks from Mayor Bill Uphoff and City Manager Andrew Vialpando.

Keynote Address Highlights Accomplishments
The address highlighted an impressive year of progress, focusing on the city’s responsible financial management and infrastructure improvements. Lomita’s fiscal prudence was underscored by a balanced 2024-26 budget, significant reserves, and strategic use of Measure L funds, enabling investments of over $74 million into community enhancements over the next two years.

Celebrating Community and Infrastructure Success
The event also showcased Lomita’s commitment to its residents:

• Community Optimism: A recent survey revealed that 90% of residents view Lomita as an excellent place to live, with high satisfaction rates for city services, events, and outreach.
• Infrastructure Improvements: Ongoing projects, including a pavement management plan and enhanced water filtration systems, are driving long-term sustainability. A state-of-the-art stormwater infiltration gallery and LED streetlight conversions further demonstrated the city’s environmental leadership.
• Public Safety and Growth: The city remains one of the safest in the region, with new initiatives such as an expanded community resource deputy program and investments in safety infrastructure.

Reflecting on a Milestone Year
As part of Lomita’s 60th anniversary, the city hosted an array of events that brought the community together in record numbers, including a memorable Founders Day festival and the city’s first cornhole tournament. These events highlighted the enduring spirit and vibrancy of Lomita as a community that balances tradition with forward-thinking growth.

A Special Milestone for the Lomita Chamber
The State of the City also marked the fifth anniversary of the Lomita Chamber of Commerce. City Manager Vialpando commended the Chamber for its unwavering dedication to bringing the business community together and fostering a spirit of collaboration that truly reflects what makes Lomita special.

Lomita Legends Honored
During the program, Mayor Bill Uphoff recognized the Lomita Legends, a group of individuals and moments that have shaped the city’s identity. The audience enjoyed a captivating journey through Lomita’s rich history, featuring heartfelt stories from lifelong residents, a visit with 1964’s Miss Lomita, and treasured memories of growing up in one of the town’s oldest homes.

A highlight of the event was the rare display of Lomita’s first fire engine—a 1917 Model T—lovingly preserved by the grandson of Lomita’s first L.A. County fire chief. This nostalgic tribute showcased the city’s enduring connection to its heritage and the remarkable people who are part of Lomita’s unique charm and sense of community.

A Vision for the Future
As the city looks to the future, leaders emphasized their commitment to sustaining Lomita’s small-town charm while embracing modern opportunities. With plans for continued infrastructure enhancements, economic growth, and community engagement, Lomita remains poised to build on its legacy as the “Friendly City.”

Recognizing Collaboration and Leadership
The event concluded with a heartfelt acknowledgment of the city’s staff, councilmembers, and volunteer commissioners for their dedication. Vialpando summed up the city’s spirit: “Yes, we’re small, but we’re mighty.”

For more information about upcoming city projects and events, visit www.lomitacity.com.