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City Manager's Update | February 20, 2026
Good morning, Monrovians!
After nearly 12 years of service to our community, Tina Cherry will retire as Monrovia’s Community Services Director at the end of this month. Tina joined the City in 2014 and under her leadership, shaped many of the programs, spaces, and experiences that define Monrovia today. She led the development of the City’s Park Master Plan and Library Strategic Plan, expanded access to local trails, launched the Veterans Resource Center and the SPOT program, and oversaw the restoration of Monrovia Canyon Park among many, many other accomplishments.
Her leadership strengthened and elevated the City’s parks and library system, grew signature events such as Monrovia Days and community parades, expanded library access through the Monrovia Reads van and enhanced digital collections, and added new parks to serve our residents. We are grateful for Tina’s dedicated, passionate, and energetic service to our organization. While she will be missed, her legacy and welcoming environment she fostered will continue to benefit Monrovia for years to come.

I'm also happy to share that Rebecca Sandoval will serve as our next Community Services Director. Rebecca earned a Bachelor's degree in Liberal Studies and joined the City of Monrovia nearly 18 years ago as a Recreation Leader. Sine her arrival in Monrovia, she has served our community at all levels of the Community Services Department, including as a Recreation Specialist, Coordinator, Supervisor, Superintendent, Manager, and Deputy Director! I'm excited for Rebecca to guide and lead our Community Services Department for the years to come!
Have a great weekend,
Sincerely,
Dylan
Highlights in this Update:
- Celebrating Dr. Tamala Kelly’s Service as Mayor Pro Tem
- February 2026 is Cholangiocarcinoma Awareness Month
- Pasadena Humane Society - Pet of the Month
- One City, One Story – What’s Coming Up
- Greening Monrovia High School | Saturday, February 21
- Celebrating 100 Years of Black History Luncheon | Sunday, February 22
- Monrovia Historical Museum: One City, One Story | Sunday, March 1
- Private Screening of WHISTLE | Sunday, March 1
- 3rd Annual House Party @ the Park | Sunday, March 15
- Community Media of the Foothills Recognized with WAVE Award
- Sharps Container Available
- Sewer Cleaning Project
- CDBG Residential Rehabilitation Program Now Accepting Applications
- Draft Hazard Mitigation Plan Now Available for Review
- Upper Water Watershed Restoration Program
- Monrovia Garden Club Meeting | Monday, February 23
- Los Angeles County California Avenue Street Repair Project
- Huntington Drive Improvements Project Continues
- Mountain Avenue Water Repairs
- Work Around Town
- Job Opportunities with the City of Monrovia
Celebrating Dr. Tamala Kelly’s Service as Mayor Pro Tem
At the February 17 Council meeting, Councilmember Dr. Tamala Kelly concluded her term as Mayor Pro Tem, a role she has served in since April 2024. We extend our sincere thanks to Councilmember Dr. Kelly for her leadership, innovative ideas, and thoughtful dialogue during her tenure. She will continue serving the Monrovia community as a Councilmember for the remainder of her term. Mayor Becky Shevlin appointed Sergio Jimenez as the incoming Mayor Pro Tem.
Congratulations to both Councilmember Dr. Kelly and Mayor Pro Tem Jimenez on their continued service and leadership!
Council assignments were also updated at the meeting. To learn more about what your City Council will be focused on in the months ahead, we invite you to take a look at the latest assignments.

February 2026 is Cholangiocarcinoma Awareness Month
Earlier this week, the Monrovia City Council proclaimed February 2026 as Cholangiocarcinoma Awareness Month and February 19, 2026 as World Cholangiocarcinoma Day. Each year, it's estimated 10,000 people in the United States develop cholangiocarcinoma, one of the deadliest rare cancers, and there is currently no known cure.
In commemoration of all patients and caregivers impacted by cholangiocarcinoma, the Monrovia City Council encourages all Monrovians to educate themselves about the disease and the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation for its role in the community to improve the quality of life for patients and its work to find a cure.

Pasadena Humane Society - Pet of the Month
Meet Girlypop, a 4 year old Labrador-Pitbull mix and February's Pet of the Month! Girlypop is the sweetest dog at Pasadena Humane and part of their Foster Field Trip program.
The Foster Field Trip program offers the opportunity to take a shelter dog out for a short adventure, whether that’s exploring a local hiking trail, visiting a pet-friendly business, or enjoying a relaxing afternoon at the park, with staff-provided guidance, a harness, leash, and “adopt me” gear included!
For details and to sign-up, visit the Pasadena Humane Society online

One City, One Story – What’s Coming Up
One City, One Story continues with programs that bring neighbors together through reading, creativity, and shared experiences. This weekend includes a Park Read-In tomorrow morning, February 21, at Library Park at 9 a.m. hosted by the Monrovia Public Library Foundation, followed by a Black History Month community event with MDBAA in the afternoon at 2 p.m. in the Youth Services Area of the library with family activities & crafts.
Looking ahead to early next week, join us on Tuesday, February 24, for Monrovia High School Humanities Academy’s HUM Out Loud poetry night (find more info here). In partnership with MDBAA, new Black History Month storytimes are also available on the library’s YouTube channel each Wednesday in February, celebrating Black history, culture, and community.
Monrovia Historical Museum: One City, One Story | Sunday, March 1
As part of the One City One Story initiative featuring Andrew Krivak’s The Bear, the Monrovia Historical Museum will present historical connections between the novel and Monrovia’s own Canyon Park. Local historian Oliver Beckwith will share stories that deepen understanding of both the book and Monrovia during this special presentation on March 1 at 1 p.m. at the Monrovia Historical Museum in Recreation Park.

Greening Monrovia High School | Saturday, February 21
Join Amigos de los Rios at Monrovia High School for a hands-on day of site care to help enhance the school’s outdoor spaces. Volunteers will work in small groups alongside native plants and soil, contributing to greener, more welcoming areas for students and the community to enjoy.
Bring your family and friends and be part of expanding local green space while spending time outdoors. Water and snacks will be provided, just come ready to dig in and enjoy a wholesome day connecting with nature! Register yourself and friends by visiting the California Climate Action Corps website.

Celebrating 100 Years of Black History Luncheon | Sunday, February 22
February is Black History Month, and 2026 marks the 100th anniversary of the celebration of Black History Month. In recognition of this historic milestone, the Monrovia Duarte Black Alumni Association is honored to celebrate and uplift institutions that have long been pillars of faith, resilience, and community.
MBDAA invites you to join them for the Black History Awards Luncheon, to be held on Sunday, February 22, where MBDAA will honor four African American churches that have each served our communities for more than 100 years:
- Bethel AME Church of Monrovia
- First Baptist Church of Duarte
- Second Baptist Church of Monrovia
- Shiloh AME Zion Church
These churches have been anchors of our past, present, and future, and it is a privilege to recognize their enduring legacy. During the luncheon, MBDAA will also honor the talented winners of our Children’s Black History Month Art Festival.
This promises to be a meaningful afternoon filled with fellowship, soul food, celebration, and inspiration.
Tickets are $50 per person and may be purchased by visiting Eventbrite, sending a Zelle payment to mbdaainfo@gmail.com, or visiting Simply Divine Beauty Supply to purchase your tickets in person. Tickets will also be available at the door.

Private Screening of WHISTLE | Sunday, March 1
Join Creative Being for a private screening of WHISTLE! on Sunday, March 1 at 4 p.m,. at the Monrovia Community Center! Experience this heartwarming and humorous documentary about Carole Anne Kaufman’s Masters of Musical Whistling International competition, presented by Australia’s Academy Award–nominated Songbird Studios, followed by a Q&A, live performance, wine and cheese, and reception.
A $10 suggested donation supports Creative Being, a nonprofit inspiring community and artistry. Tickets are available on Eventbrite.

3rd Annual House Party @ the Park | Sunday, March 15
Save the date! You’re invited to the 3rd Annual House Party at the Park, on Sunday, March 15, 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. Hosted by CommUNITYreIMAGINED and Chris Loos, this family-friendly celebration honors the people making a positive impact in our neighborhood. Enjoy food, music, youth activities, games, a car show, and community resources!
Know someone who deserves an M-Town Award? Nominate them today and tell us how they make our town special!
Community Media of the Foothills Recognized with WAVE Award
Congratulations to Community Media of the Foothills for being recognized with the “Best of Show” at the 2026 WAVE Awards for the Eaton Fire CARE-A-Thon! They were also honored as finalists for eight productions, an incredible achievement!
The WAVE Awards, presented by the Alliance for Community Media, are a prestigious recognition of the best television, radio, and new media public programming across six states in the western region. This year, they received hundreds of entries from Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada, and New Mexico. Take a look at Community Media of the Foothills’ award-winning and finalist YouTube playlist.

Sharps Containers Available
In partnership with Los Angeles County’s Clean LA program, the City of Monrovia is one of several locations that distributes sharp containers supplied by the County. We will have containers available for pick-up starting at 12 PM on Monday February 23, at both City Hall and the Public Works Yard. One (1) container is provided per Monrovia household while supplies last.
Contact: City of Monrovia Public Works, (626) 932-5575

Sewer Cleaning Project
The City’s contractor, Houston & Harris, will continue a sewer line cleaning project. For the week of February 23 to February 27, drivers can expect temporary lane closures within the project area from Hillcrest Avenue on the north to Royal Oaks Avenue on the south, and from Myrtle Avenue on the west to Terrado Drive on the east.
Work is expected to last through May 2026, and will be phased so that as few streets are affected as possible at any one time
Contact: City of Monrovia Public Works, (626) 256-8224
CDBG Residential Rehabilitation Program Now Accepting Applications
The City of Monrovia is now accepting applications for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Residential Rehabilitation Program. CDBG is a federally funded program designed to fulfill three primary goals: improve quality of life, prevent deterioration, and address urgent housing needs. A limited number of grants are available for low-to moderate income eligible homeowners of single-family, owner-occupied, detached residences located within the incorporated boundaries of the City. Grants are awarded based on prioritization criteria, including:
- Level 1 – Essential repairs that address immediate safety needs (roof replacement, heating, plumbing, accessibility, etc.)
- Level 2 – Necessary repairs that prevent deterioration (roof repairs, structural repairs, weatherization improvements, etc.)
- Level 3 – Recommended repairs that improve long-term quality (painting, flooring, minor repairs, etc.)
CDBG Residential Rehabilitation Program Guidelines are listed on the City of Monrovia CDBG page. Residents are encouraged to review the Program Guidelines carefully, as they outline eligibility requirements, covered improvements, documentation needed for review, and the full application process. All submissions will be evaluated for income qualification, property eligibility, and repair prioritization.
How to Apply: Complete the Eligibility Intake Form and email to map@monroviaca.gov.
For program questions, please contact Erik Carroll at map@monroviaca.gov or call 626-932-5563.

Draft Hazard Mitigation Plan Now Available for Review
A draft of the Hazard Mitigation Plan for Monrovia is ready for community review! From wildfires to floods to earthquakes, this plan maps local risks and shows how we can protect lives, limit damage, and build a stronger, more resilient community.
Share your feedback by February 24 to help ensure the plan reflects Monrovia’s priorities and future needs.
Review the draft at mitigatehazards.com/monrovia-hmp/monrovia-documents and share your comments via the live-comment option or by sending comments to: info@dynamicplanning.co

Upper Water Watershed Restoration Program
Upper Water invites the community to help restore and revitalize our watershed! This spring, join us in planting trees near the Crystal Lake area. Students and youth groups can receive community service hours!
Be part of this rewarding experience and make a lasting impact on our environment and community! For more information and to sign up, visit upperwater.org/watershed-restoration-program/
Monrovia Garden Club Meeting | Monday, February 23
The Monrovia Garden Club invites the community to its next program and speaker session, featuring an engaging presentation on the world of tomatoes and the many unique and varied tomato varieties gardeners can grow and enjoy.
The program will take place on Monday, February 23, at the Fellowship Hall of the Monrovia Community Church. Social time begins at 6:30 p.m., and the meeting will start promptly at 7 p.m. Attendees are welcome to bring a snack or appetizer to share. Coffee, tea, and water will be provided.

Los Angeles County California Avenue Street Repair Project
The County of Los Angeles is performing street repairs along California Avenue south of the Monrovia City limit.
During the week of February 23, work will take place from Camino Real Street to Novice Lane.
Drivers should expect closures of the northbound and southbound lanes of California Avenue, and detours at the following intersections:
- Camino Real Street
- Shrode Avenue
- El Sur Street
Traffic will be diverted to Myrtle Avenue and Mountain Avenue. Please plan for delays along California Avenue and surrounding streets.
Contact: Monrovia Public Works, (626) 256-822

Huntington Drive Improvements Project Continues
The City’s contractor Gentry Brothers will continue the Huntington Drive Improvement Project. For the week of February 23 through February 27, residents should expect the contractor to perform the following activities:
- Eastbound lanes of Huntington Drive at Shamrock Avenue
- Replace southeastern curb ramp at Shamrock Avenue
Driveway access will be maintained throughout the duration of the project. Residents and drivers should expect increased traffic, temporary lane closures, increased noise, and on-street parking restrictions between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
Regular street sweeping will not take place in the work area during construction hours, so please take note of posted construction parking signage. Work is projected to last through April 2026.
Contact: Monrovia Public Works, (626) 256-8224

Mountain Avenue Water Repairs
The City’s contractor All American Asphalt will complete restoration of the Mountain Avenue center median following an emergency water repair at the Lemon Avenue intersection earlier this month. During the week of February 23 through February 27, residents should expect the following activities:
- Mountain Avenue and Lemon Avenue Intersection
- Restoration of center median
- Adjustments to traffic signals
- Multi-day lane closures along Mountain Avenue
- Turn restrictions from Mountain Avenue onto Lemon Avenue
Residents and drivers should also expect increased traffic, increased noise, and on-street parking restrictions between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
Regular street sweeping will not take place in the work area during construction hours, so please take note of posted construction parking signage.
We recognize that construction can be messy and inconvenient and thank you in advance for your cooperation and patience as we work through these improvements!
Contact: Monrovia Public Works, (626) 256-8224
Work Around Town
For the week of Monday, February 23 through Friday, February 27, the following locations will have construction work that may alter traffic and/or sidewalk flow. Please follow all directional signage and worker instructions for your safety.
- Wednesday, February 25
- 600 Block of W Colorado Blvd – Trench in street for repairs
Contact: Monrovia Public Works, (626) 932-5575
- Wednesday- Friday, February 25-27
- 200 Block of W Duarte Road – northbound lane closure on Magnolia Ave
Contact: Monrovia Public Works, (626) 932-5575
Job Opportunities with the City of Monrovia
The City of Monrovia offers interested individuals a chance to keep themselves notified on our job openings through the job interest card. This card will help interested individuals receive notifications about positions that open within the City without having to log on to view our employment opportunities page continuously.
The City of Monrovia is now recruiting for the following positions:
- Fire Cadet (Part-time)
- Police Officer (Recruit/Entry-Level)
- Police Officer (Lateral)
- Police Cadet (Part-time)

Neighborhood Watch Report
This report lists the total number of calls for service received over the last seven-day period.
Key Dates, Programs & Virtual Events
- Food ED 5th Anniversary Party - Golden Gnomies | Friday, February 20 | Tickets
- Citrus Preservation Workshop Presented By Food ED | Saturday, February 21 | RSVP
- Monrovia Today | Winter Activity Guide
- Make an Appointment for Passport Service at Monrovia Community Center
- Monrovia Street Fair & Market | Fridays | 5 p.m.
- E-Waste Drop Off at Monrovia Public Works Yard | Mon - Thu | 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Subscribe to e-Notifications for Meeting Agendas
- Request a Bulky Item Pick-Up
- Traffic Safety Request Application
- Report an Issue for Public Works
- Shop the City of Monrovia Official Store
