These Updates from the City Manager are designed to keep Lomita residents informed about the City’s ongoing projects, programs and priorities. These updates provide timely information on community improvements, public safety efforts and infrastructure investments, along with highlights of recent accomplishments and what’s coming next.

Published every two weeks, the Updates from the City Manager aim to offer transparency into City operations and ensure residents stay connected to how Lomita is working to enhance the quality of life across the community.

Dear Lomita Residents,

Here are a few notable updates and happenings around Lomita:

New “Budget at a Glance” Coming to Lomita Mailboxes

Keep an eye on your mailbox! The City is launching its new budget at a glance, an easy-to-read guide designed to help residents better understand Lomita’s finances. The brochure provides a snapshot of the City’s financial position and outlook while highlighting how City resources support services, programs, infrastructure improvements and other community priorities.

The budget at a glance will be produced annually following adoption of the City’s budget and is part of our continued effort to make City finances more accessible and transparent to the community. View the brochure online or in your mailbox.

Protecting Lomita’s Water System from Cybersecurity Threats

Cybersecurity threats targeting drinking water systems have become an increasing concern for communities across the country. Federal and state agencies have encouraged water agencies to remain vigilant and strengthen protections for critical infrastructure.

The Cypress Water Production Facility, the heart of Lomita’s local water system, is currently offline while the City awaits its operating permit from the State Water Resources Control Board. As the City prepares for the facility to return to operation, our information technology team is conducting additional cybersecurity testing and reviewing system protections and firewalls. These efforts are intended to ensure appropriate safeguards are in place to protect this important piece of Lomita’s infrastructure.

Back to School in Lomita

School is back in session, and the City is working with our public safety partners to help students and families start the year safely. Community Safety Officers and Lomita Sheriff’s Station CORE Deputies will maintain a presence around local schools during drop-off and pick-up times throughout the school year, with an increased focus during the first days of school.

The City’s Public Works team has also refreshed street markings and crosswalks around school areas to improve visibility for motorists and pedestrians.

As everyone settles back into their school-year routines, please slow down, watch for students and crossing guards and allow a little extra time when traveling near our schools.

City Advocates for Lomita’s Voice in LA County Government

The City of Lomita is joining cities throughout Los Angeles County in requesting a voice in discussions regarding changes to the structure of County government under Measure G.

Regional Councils of Governments, including the South Bay Cities Council of Governments, have asked the County’s Measure G Governance Reform Task Force to include cities in discussions regarding the responsibilities of the County’s newly created elected Chief Executive Officer position. This issue is particularly important to cities like Lomita that rely on Los Angeles County for a variety of contracted and regional services. The City has submitted a letter requesting that local cities be included as the County develops recommendations regarding the new position and its responsibilities.

The City will continue advocating for a structure that supports effective coordination and reliable delivery of services to Lomita residents.

Celebrating 45 Years of Friendship with Takaishi, Japan

Lomita recently said sayonara to our visiting Sister City delegation from Takaishi City, Japan, concluding another memorable cultural exchange between our two communities.

This year is especially meaningful as Lomita and Takaishi celebrate the 45th anniversary of our Sister City relationship, as well as Takaishi City’s 60th anniversary as a City. During their visit, our guests experienced Lomita’s community and traditions and were recognized during National Night Out. The visit concluded with a farewell dinner celebrating the friendship that has connected our communities for more than four decades.

We wish our friends from Takaishi safe travels home and look forward to continuing this special partnership for many years to come.

Thank you for reading this “Update from the City Manager.” In case you missed it, we encourage you to review past updates to stay informed about important City efforts and the ongoing progress in our community. If you have any questions, please visit us at City Hall or call (310) 325-7110.

Warm Regards,

Andrew Vialpando
City Manager