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City Manager's Update | March 20, 2026

Post Date:03/20/2026 10:30 AM

Good morning, Monrovians!

Please join friends and neighbors on Saturday, March 21st at 9:00 a.m. in Library Park for a walk in honor of "Blondie." Bring a sign, poster and/or your favorite bear memorabilia while you reflect and share stories of our bears that bind our community and our neighborhoods together.

When my family first moved to our home in Monrovia, I recall signing a wildlife disclosure form in my mortgage documents. I knew there were bears but I had never seen one. For weeks I waited and for a while...nothing. But then, I saw it...a large pile of bear dung in the middle of my driveway! And a few weeks later, my trash can was knocked over in the middle of the driveway...I was so excited that I took a picture of the overturned trash can! And then it finally happened...a mother bear and her two young cubs visited our home. Safely inside, we watched with adoration as the bears rummaged through our trash can. We also watched the cubs grow over the next few years and became familiar with this bear family, even learning how to secure our property. Monrovia bears have become my favorite part of living in Monrovia.

What happened to Blondie is tragic and unfortunate. It makes me angry too. But perhaps what is equally tragic, is the misplaced anger and vitriol directed at a woman who was walking her dog. The decision to euthanize the bear was not hers to make and she did absolutely nothing wrong. I have seen far too many claims about "what happened" from people who weren't there. I have personally spoken with the first residents to respond to the scene and help this poor woman. I hope residents who read this message will advocate the same in all future discussions on the matter. We don't need to see the awful, negative and misplaced commentary about her. But it would be great to see Monrovians come together in support of our wildlife. Jane Goodall was an acclaimed expert on primates and the world's preeminent chimpanzee expert. She said, "We have so far to go to realize our human potential for compassion, altruism and love."  She was speaking about human love towards animals. But perhaps human love towards other humans. 

The City Council is preparing to engage with our state legislators and officials with the CA Department of Fish and Wildlife. Perhaps we can inspire change while also learning from the tragedy of this week. And we're working to learn more about the two cubs...it would be wonderful if we can sponsor and support them until a time they, hopefully, can be returned to our Monrovia foothills. 

Have a great weekend!

Sincerely,

Dylan 

Email: dfeik@monroviaca.gov

Highlights in this Update: 

  • Monrovia Awarded $460K Grant for Recreation Park Design
  • 222 E. Cypress Project Update
  • Monrovia Wine Walk Ticket Sales Live
  • Proclaiming National Vietnam War Veteran's Day
  • Proposed 2026 Wastewater Service Charge Rates
  • Artists Wanted! Enter the Art on the Box Contest
  • Old Town Spring Bunny Photos | Saturday, March 21
  • Explore the Life and Work of Mayan Revival Architect, Robert Stacy-Judd | Saturday, March 21
  • Legacy, Courage & Carrying the Torch: Women's History Month Celebration | Sunday, March 22
  • Pastel Portrait Workshop | Wednesday, March 25
  • Monrovia Garden Club March Meeting | Monday, March 23
  • MAP Neighborhood Conference Returns April 25
  • Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Draft Plans and Final Community Meeting
  • One City, One Story - What's Coming Up
  • MPWR Fundraiser at Panera Bread | Wednesday, March 25
  • Spring Veggies Workshop | Saturday, March 21
  • Sewer Improvement at Duarte Road and Peck Road Set to Begin
  • Los Angeles County California Avenue Street Repair Project
  • Huntington Drive Improvements Project Continues
  • Sewer Cleaning Project 
  • Work Around Town
  • Job Opportunities with the City of Monrovia 

Monrovia Awarded $460,000 Grant for Recreation Park Design

The Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District (RPOSD) has awarded the City of Monrovia a $460,000 grant to develop a shovel-ready design package for the expansion and revitalization of Recreation Park! The project includes conceptual and schematic design, construction documents, technical studies, permitting coordination, and community engagement to support upgraded sports facilities, improved accessibility, and enhanced environmental features. 

Funding for this project comes from Measure A, a Los Angeles County voter-approved property tax passed in 2016 to expand and improve parks, open space, and their public health and environmental benefits. Monrovia is one of 48 recipients, alongside cities, nonprofits, and public agencies working to plan, build, and enhance parks, trails, beaches, rivers, and open spaces across Los Angeles County.

 

222 E. Cypress Project Update

During a Tuesday evening study session, the Monrovia City Council reviewed the 222 E. Cypress Project, which centers on preserving the site’s historic 1892 Victorian home, known as the Ingersoll House, while also developing affordable housing. Based on the discussion, the current direction is to move forward with Planned Development standards which require the structure be preserved on site.

The project remains in early stages, with additional outreach, draft development standards, and a future Request for Proposals still to come. As the process moves forward, the City will continue working to balance historic preservation, neighborhood context, and opportunities for affordable housing.

 

Monrovia Wine Walk Ticket Sales Live

Monrovia’s 9th Annual Wine Walk will be held on Saturday, April 11, in Old Town Monrovia! Wine Walk guests will receive a tasting glass and a map of the participating businesses in Old Town. The event will run from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., you will receive tickets for 12 wine tastings. Wine information will be available at each location. Registration is required and tickets sell quickly!

Pre-sale tickets are on sale now for $50.00. Purchase your tickets at the following locations:

  • Monrovia Community Center – 119 W. Palm Avenue
  • Charlie’s House – 430 S. Myrtle Avenue

You can also purchase your tickets online through our online registration software. Please call the Monrovia Community Center at (626) 256-8246 for any questions or to help register today!

 

 

Proclaiming National Vietnam War Veteran's Day

The Monrovia City Council proudly proclaims March 29, 2026, as National Vietnam War Veterans Day in Monrovia and urges the community to show Vietnam veterans, their families, and all the men and women who have served our country the fullest respect and support of a grateful state and nation.

The Veterans Resource Center at the Monrovia Public Library is dedicated to assisting local veterans and their families by connecting them to benefits and resources they have earned through their years of service. Learn more about our Veterans Resource Center. 

Proposed 2026 Wastewater Service Charge Rates

The Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts operate a sanitary sewer system serving approximately half of L.A. County residents, including Monrovia. Monrovia residents have received notice of proposed wastewater service charge rate increases, along with information about upcoming meetings, facility tours, and a public hearing where these rates will be considered.

For City of Monrovia single-family homeowners, the proposed monthly rate increase is between $2.50 and $2.75, beginning on July 1, 2026. Under Proposition 218, property owners have the right to protest the proposed rate structure. All protests must be submitted by May 27, 2026.

To learn more, view the presentation that was presented at the Monrovia City Council Meeting, or visit www.lacsd.org/rates to view public information meeting dates. 

Artists Wanted! Enter the Art on the Box Contest

Calling All Artists! The City of Monrovia, Art in Public Places Committee, is seeking artists for the Art on the Box contest. 

Art on the Box extends the reach of public art into the community by inviting artists to transform City-owned utility cabinets into vibrant works of art. The theme for the 2026 program, “Monrovia Moments,” encourages artists to capture the people, places, and events that have shaped Monrovia from its early beginnings to today. Four utility boxes are available for painting, and selected artists will receive a $750 stipend. Applications will be accepted through March 30, 2026.

For more information about Art on the Box or the Art in Public Places, contact Kerri Zessau at 626-932-5564 or kzessau@monroviaca.gov. 

Old Town Spring Bunny Photos | Saturday, March 21

Hop into spring at Old Town Spring Bunny Photos tomorrow, March 21, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., in Library Park! Families are invited to take photos with the Spring Bunny and enjoy a variety of festive activities throughout the park.

The event features arts and crafts, lawn games, additional photo opportunities, and library storytime, making it a fun seasonal outing for all ages! For additional information, please contact the Community Services Department at (626) 256-8246.

 

Explore the Life and Work of Mayan Revival Architect, Robert Stacy-Judd | Saturday, March 21

The Los Angeles Public Library invites the community to explore the life and work of Robert Stacy-Judd, the renowned architect, explorer, and author best known in Monrovia for designing the Aztec Hotel along Route 66 in 1925–26. This in-person program will take place tomorrow, March 21, at 11 a.m. at the North Hollywood Amelia Earhart Regional Branch Library and will highlight Stacy-Judd’s fascinating career and local architectural legacy. 

Author, urban archaeologist, and cinematographer Sven Kirsten will share the story of Stacy-Judd’s life and work, including his connection to both the Aztec Hotel in Monrovia and the former Masonic lodge near the North Hollywood Library. 

Legacy, Courage & Carrying the Torch: Women's History Month Celebration | Sunday, March 22

In celebration of Women’s History Month, the Monrovia Duarte Black Alumni Association invites the community to Legacy, Courage & Carrying the Torch, a special afternoon honoring the story and legacy of Anna H. Jones and Dr. Sophia B. Jones. The event will take place on Sunday, March 22, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Duarte Historical Museum, located at 777 Encanto Parkway in Duarte.

Guests will have the opportunity to experience a powerful video presentation celebrating the strength, contributions, and lasting impact of remarkable women whose stories continue to inspire future generations. Sponsored by the Monrovia Duarte Black Alumni Association, the program offers a meaningful way to reflect on Women’s History Month and recognize a legacy of courage, leadership, and service.

 

Pastel Portrait Workshop | Wednesday, March 25

Monrovia Fine Arts is inviting the community to a free Pastel Portrait Workshop on Wednesday, March 25, featuring the return of renowned portrait artist Karl Washington. Back by popular demand, Karl will lead an informative session focused on the basics of pastel portrait painting, including how to begin and complete a portrait, paper selection, and the different types of pastels used in the medium. Attendees will also have the opportunity to learn from Karl’s many years of experience creating pastel portraits.

Admission is free, but advance RSVP is required by Monday, March 23, by emailing christine@monroviafinearts.org. Participants who would like to work along during the session are encouraged to bring their own materials, including soft pastels, pastel paper or board, an easel or drawing board, fixative, blending tools, pencils, erasers, paper towels or rags, masking tape, a reference image, an apron, and latex gloves. To learn more about Karl Washington and view his work, visit ktwstudios.com.

Monrovia Garden Club March Meeting | Monday, March 23

The Monrovia Garden Club invites the community to its next monthly meeting on Monday, March 23, at Monrovia Community Church, located at 101 E. Foothill Blvd. Social time begins at 6:30 p.m., with the presentation starting at 7 p.m. in Fellowship Hall, located downstairs below the sanctuary. Parking is available via the Encinitas entrance. 

The evening will feature Pamela Berstler, CEO of the Green Gardens Group, presenting “Landscape Myths – BUSTED!” The program will explore common misconceptions about landscaping, including what plants really need to thrive, how to save time and money by working with natural systems, and why irrigation and other landscape practices are not always as straightforward as they may seem. Pamela Berstler is an experienced landscape expert and widely recognized thought leader in promoting living soil and watershed-based landscaping practices. 

 

 

MAP Neighborhood Conference Returns April 25

Mark your calendar for the upcoming Monrovia Area Partnership (MAP) Neighborhood Conference on Saturday, April 25 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Second Baptist Church of Monrovia!

This free community event brings the community together for engaging sessions, informative presentations, and helpful resources centered around this year’s theme, “The Power of You.” Open to the entire community, the conference is designed to connect individuals, share valuable information, and encourage greater neighborhood involvement. For additional information, contact 626-932-5563 or map@monroviaca.gov.

 

 

Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Draft Plans and Final Community Meeting

The City of Monrovia is pleased to announce that the Draft Comprehensive Safety Action Plan and Draft Bicycle Master Plan Update are now available for public review. These plans are the result of data analysis and community input over the past several months, and we are grateful to everyone who participated by attending meetings, completing surveys, and sharing valuable insights about transportation and mobility in Monrovia.

Your feedback helped shape a set of strategies and project recommendations aimed at improving safety for all roadway users. In addition to guiding future improvements, these plans will help the City to pursue competitive grant funding for the projects identified within them. Community members are encouraged to review the draft plans on the project website and share comments or questions by emailing ssousa@monroviaca.gov.

To learn more about the plans, please join us for an upcoming virtual community meeting on Wednesday, March 25, at 6:00 p.m. Register online today!

We look forward to continuing the conversation and working together to make Monrovia’s streets safer and well-connected for all!

 

 

One City, One Story - What's Coming Up

One City, One Story continues with opportunities for the community to slow down, connect with nature, and spend time together through a variety of upcoming activities. This weekend begins with a Park Read-In on Saturday, March 21, at 9 a.m. at Kiwanis Park, located at 340 N. Grand Ave., hosted by the Kiwanis Club of Monrovia. The morning will be followed by Kids Crafts in Canyon Park at 10 a.m. and a guided hike in Canyon Park at 3 p.m. Advance registration is required for the hike.

Looking ahead, the community is also invited to Mindful Meditation on Monday, March 23, at 4:30 p.m. in Kiwanis Park. The series will conclude with the One City, One Story Finale on Saturday, March 28, from 1 to 3 p.m. at Station Square Park. The finale will feature live performances, community recognition, raffle prizes, booths, and activities for all ages.

 

 

MPWR Fundraiser at Panera Bread | Wednesday, March 25

Enjoy a meal at Panera Bread and support the Monrovia Parks, Wilderness, & Recreation Foundation (MPWR) on Wednesday, March 25, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. The fundraiser will take place at Panera Bread in Monrovia, and supporters can participate by dining in the café, using the drive-thru, ordering pickup, or choosing delivery.

Panera Bread will donate 25% of event sales to MPWR in support of the Monrovia Parks, Wilderness, & Recreation Foundation. When ordering online, be sure to enter promo code FUND4U at checkout so your purchase counts toward the fundraiser.

 

Spring Veggies Workshop | Saturday, March 21

Join us at the Monrovia Community Garden South tomorrow, March 21, and  learn all about how to plant and care for Spring veggies! FREE veggie starts will be made available while supplies last!   

This workshop will be held, 9 a.m. - 11 a.m., and is free to attend! Parking at the FREE Park & Ride lot located at 168 W. Pomona Ave. is recommended.

 

 

Sewer Improvement at Duarte Road and Peck Road Set to Begin

The City of Monrovia will continue the Sewer Improvement at Duarte Road and Peck Road Project. For the week of March 23 through March 27, residents should expect the contractor to perform the following activities:

  • Intersection of Duarte Road and Peck Road – Mobilization and Repair of Manhole
    • Duarte Road
      • Single Lane of westbound traffic
      • Turn restrictions in effect
    • Peck Road
      • Turn restrictions in effect

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 7:00 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.

 

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 weeks of March 23, the County will complete striping from Hurstview Avenue to Novice Lane. Drivers should expect temporary lane closures and minor traffic delays within the area.

We appreciate your understanding, as the County works to make critical repairs to local roads. Schedules are subject to change. We appreciate your flexibility.

Huntington Drive Improvements Project Continues

The City’s contractors will continue the Huntington Drive Improvement Project. For the week of March 23 through March 27, drivers should expect the following activities and impacts:

  • Huntington Drive from Magnolia Ave to Shamrock Avenue
    • Grinding of Concrete
    • Single lane of traffic for both directions of traffic

Drivers should expect a single driving lane of traffic for both east and westbound lanes of Huntington Drive, increased dust and noise, and on-street parking restrictions. Driveway access will be maintained throughout the duration of the project.

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.

Sewer Cleaning Project

The City’s contractor, Houston & Harris, will continue a sewer line cleaning project. For the week of March 23 through March 27, drivers can expect temporary lane closures within the project area from Hillcrest Avenue on the north to Colorado Boulevard on the south, and from Fifth Avenue on the west to Myrtle Avenue on the east.

The project is expected to last through May and will be phased so that as few streets are affected as possible at any one time.

 Work Around Town

For the week of Monday, March 23, 2026, through Friday, March 27, 2026, 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

  • Monday, March 23
    • 200 Block North Alta Vista Avenue – Trench for gas main leak repair

Contact: Southern California Gas, (877) 238-0092

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: 

  • Recreation Coordinator 
  • Maintenance Worker
  • YES Intern
  • Fire Cadet (Part-time)
  • Police Officer (Lateral)

  

Neighborhood Watch Report

This report lists the total number of calls for service received over the last seven-day period.

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