City of Monrovia

View the Monrovia Police Department Press Releases HERE.

May 19-25 is National Public Works Week

This week is National Public Works Week, a celebration of the tens of thousands of men and women in North America who provide and maintain the infrastructure and services collectively known as public works.

The Monrovia Department of Public Works is the largest Department in the City, with incredibly varied and intensive programs.

Because of Public Works... Monrovia is one of the region's leaders in environmental efforts and sustainability.

Because of Public Works... Monrovia has high quality water and utility service.

The Environmental Services and Administration Division have taken Monrovia far beyond the efforts that most cities have made to become environmentally sustainable. Environmental Services is in charge of the City's solid waste contracts, managing the new stormwater regulations, leading the City's Green team and environmental accord efforts, and running the Department's compost program.

Not only has environmental services managed to promote waste reduction and implement a commercial recycling program throughout the City, Monrovia boasts the lowest residential trash rates in the region. But it's more than just providing black, blue and green barrels. They understand that in order for any waste reduction efforts to truly be met, there must be education about environmental issues.

"We believe in the value of public education. Each quarter we work hard to put out an issue of ‘Recycle News' to give our residents and businesses practical, easy-to-use tips on how to reduce their impact on our landfills and environment," says Environmental Services Division Manager Heather Maloney. "Education is important in everything we do- from stormwater to composting to simply being water wise. Understanding is the key to sustainability."

The Administration Staff are the face of Public Works. They are the voice on the other end of the line when residents call in to report fallen trees, sidewalk cracks and even lost keys in a storm drain. If you visit the Public Works Department, they can answer any question you may have, sell you a low-cost compost bin, or even provide a free used motor oil recycling kit.

You can reach Public Works by calling the Administrative Staff at (626) 932-5575 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Contact Environmental Services at (626) 932-5553 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Ever wonder where your water comes from? How about where is goes once it's down the drain?

UTILITIES DIVISION

The City of Monrovia operates its own water utility. With a Well Field located at the south portion of the City, the Utilities Division ensures that each household in Monrovia has clean water and a sewer system you never have to think about.

The Water Maintenance Section is responsible for installation, maintenance and repairs to over 84 miles of water mains and approximately 9,317 water services. The Water Maintenance Section also exercises over 3,000 water main valves bi-annually.

Incredibly, the City's 93 miles of sewer mains are cleaned once a year by a two person crew. The Sewer crew is also responsible for all video inspections of the sewer system.

Monrovia produces its own water through a series of 5 ground water wells, 11 reservoirs, and 6 booster stations. All of the water that is pump from the Main San Gabriel Basin is treated, an average of over 7 million gallons per day. The treatment of the water is done by aerating the water through the air stripping towers and adding chlorination. Without fail, Monrovia meets or exceeds the Federal and State water quality regulations.

On average, Monrovia's Utilities Division produces 2.4 Billion gallons of water each year. A single household of four consumes approximately 4,900 gallons per week.

"Water conservation is so important, that's why we offer our Water4Life program which assists residents in reducing their overall water consumption inside and outside of their homes," said Shawn Igoe, Utilities Division Supervisor. "The City offers water conservation kits which include low flow shower heads, faucet aerators, toilet leak detections tablets, and even water audits available at no cost upon request."

To maintain a high level of customer service, while meeting the demand for water, Monrovia relies upon meter reading. Customer Service staff read the 9,317 meters every month, investigate leaks, and test backflow devices. Ask the experts and they can give you answers to why you may have low & high water pressure, explain water quality or general inquiries about water.

April 24, 2013

Update: 5:45 p.m. - Fire Chief Chris Donovan has announced that the Madison Fire is now at 100% containment.

Update: 10 a.m. - This morning, volunteer crews from Rio Hondo College will be going up to the fire area to locate, roll and tag the fire hose that was used during the event. Fire crews laid hose all along the two mile perimeter, so it is estimated that these volunteers will be removing and cleaning over 12,000 feet of hose line in very tough terrain. The City of Monrovia is extremely thankful for these 30 Rio Hondo Fire Cadets working very hard for Monrovia up in the hillside along the perimeter of the fire.

The fire remains at 95% containment.

April 23, 2013

Update: 12:15 p.m. - As of noon today, the Madison Fire is 95 percent contained. Resources now are exclusively those of the Monrovia Fire Department. At the height of the fire, there were dozens of mutual aid responders from across Southern California, totaling nearly 220 personnel. Today, there are 10: a division chief, one engine, one water tender, and two patrols that will stay on through the night to monitor any potential flare-ups.

The plan for tomorrow will be to complete final mop-ups. Once that work is completed and the fire is declared 100 percent contained, firefighters will work to remove all of the nearly 12,000 feet of hose currently on the hillside.

The Madison Fire burned 125 acres, resulted in one minor injury, and no structures were burned.

If people are looking to show their appreciation of the work of the Firefighters, they are encouraged to do so by attending the Firefighter breakfast on May 11. Click  here for more information on the breakfast.

Update: 9 a.m. - Personnel assigned to this fire has been reduced to only Monrovia Fire Department staff. Today they are working in the northeastern section of the fire to monitor any flare-ups in this section of the hillside, which has steep terrain and deep valleys. Containment still stands at 85 percent, with 125 acres being burned. Tomorrow, personnel is scheduled to remove hose off the hillside.

April 22, 2013

Update: 9 a.m. - Containment stands at 85 percent, and no additional acreage burned over the night. There is no projected movement of the fire today. As we reported yesterday, all residents have been allowed back in their homes. Weather today shows increased humidity with a marine fog layer in the morning and light winds.  If predicted weather comes to fruition, this will be a very successful shift.

Personnel has been reduced significantly compared to at the height of the fire. There are six engines, four patrols, and two strike teams. Fire fighters today will be working on cutting lines around the remaining 15 percent of the fire.

Hillside residents living near the perimeter of the fire are advised to drive slowly and be mindful of fire personnel. Fire fighters today are facing several obstacles as they work on cutting the remaining line: steep terrain with sheer drops as much as 100 feet, rattlesnakes, bears, and boulders.

April 21, 2013

Update 4:15 p.m. -The Madison Fire, which broke out at 11:06 a.m. on Saturday at 322 N. Madison Ave., is now 85 percent contained. All residents have been allowed to return to their homes, and all street closures associated with the fire will be removed within the hour.

At its peak, as many as 220 fire fighters, 65 engines, 6 handcrews, 2 dozers and air support (two tankers and five helicopters) responded to the fire. Crews - including 20 fire engines and 10 handcrews - will be working throughout the afternoon, and fire patrols will be working through the night to respond to flareups.

Monrovia Fire Chief Chris Donovan attributed some of the success today to the "great weather and no winds." This was a fuel and topography driven fire, with very heavy brush that has not burned for the past 55 years. "The fire grew very hot, with intense, steep, rugged terrain that took firefighters awhile to get to."

There is no anticipation on when the fire will be fully contained.

The Chief stressed the importance of brush clearance, and added that experts are predicting a very dry - and very bad - fire season. More information on brush clearance can be found here.

"At the height of the incident, over 400 homes were directly threatened by the fire, and due to the hardwork of Monrovia Firefighters and mutual aid partners from across Southern California, no homes were damaged or destroyed," Chief Donovan said.

Update 3:55 p.m. - All mandatory evacuations have been lifted, and the Evacuation Center at the Community Center is now closed. The fire is 85 percent contained.

Update 2:25 pm - Monrovia Fire Chief Chris Donovan will be hosting a press conference at the Police Station's Emergency Operations Center at Lime and Avenue at 3:30 p.m. today to provide the latest updates.

Update 1:15 pm - Fire crews are continuing to work towards containment. Chief Donovan is expected to make an announcement within an hour on the status of the fire fighting efforts. Thank you for the continued patience of those in the remaining evacuated areas (Hidden Valley and Highland), and the support of the community members of our hardworking fire fighting crews.

Update 11 am - Crews will be working today to contain the fire by cutting line, illustrated by the bold line in red.   Click here for a more detailed map of the impacted area.

Update 10:27 am - Fire fighters made progress throughout the evening by acheiving additional containment of the fire at 55 percent. After further review, it has been deteremined that the total acreage burned is 125, downgraded from the originally reported figure of 175 acres. Crews will be working today to close the line of containment. These crews include 20 engines, 4 handcrews, logisitical support, and a helicopter will be making drops.

Most residents have been allowed to return to their homes, though  the mandatory evacuation remains in place for residents on Hidden Valley and Highland. These evacuations are remaining in place in anticipation of potential wind shifts.

Weather reports are favorable. Temperatures will be warming into the mid 80s with humidities droppping intot the high teens. Eye level winds will be light and terrain driven with light gusts of 5 to 15 miles per hour.

Residents will see smoke smoke in the area from active fire, and you might also spot fire in open areas. Hand crews will be working in the hills, and fire engines will be in neighborhoods supporting this work.

There are still no reported structure damages and no structures currently being threatened.

Safety concerns today are the potential for bears, boulders, big logs and heat exhaustion.

Residents can stay updated on the event on the City website, or by following @MonroviaCA on twitter or the City of Monrovia on Facebook.

Update 9:52 am - Evacuations have been lifted for Briar Cliff and Alta Vista. The fire is 55 percent containted and has burned 125 acres.

April 20, 2013

Update 9:40pm - At this time, the Madison Fire is 50% contained, covering 175 acres.  There have been no damaged or destroyed structures, and only one heat-related incident with a firefighter, that was treated on scene and is doing well.  Personnel has been downgraded to 20 fire engines, 6 hand crews.  Air support remains available if needed.  At the peak of Madison fire, there were 220 fire fighters fighting the blaze.

All incident command will now go through the Emergency Operations Center at Monrovia City Hall.

"There is no imminent danger.  Some flames are still burning, primarily off of Lotone and Heather Heights," said Fire Chief Chris Donovan. Evacuation orders for Alta Vista, Highland, Heather Heights and Briar Cliff are still undetermined based upon winds that may pick up overnight.  Residents are asked to be patient, but no time has been established at this point to lift the evacuation.

Updated 9:00 pm - Evacuation orders are being lifted for all neighborhoods EXCEPT Hidden Valley, Alta Vista, Briar Cliff and Highland.  Residents may return to their homes, effective immediately.

Residents in the Alta Vista, Briar Cliff, Hidden Valley and Highland neighborhoods can continue to seek support at the Red Cross shelter at the Monrovia Community Center, 119 W Palm Avenue, Monrovia, CA.

Updated 8:35 pm - Click here to watch Fire Chief Chris Donovan report on the status of the Madison fire, including information on night operations. Video courtesy of KGEM TV.

Update 7:10 pm - The fire is still at 170 acres with 10% containment. 200 homes have been evacuated. Mandatory evacuations orders are still in place, however emergency response crews will discuss in the next several hours lifting the evacuations. Firefighters are now setting up on the ridge line, with helicopters making the drops behind the ridgeline, where the fire remains active due to old vegetation and challenging terrain.

"The concern for tonight is downwind draft, which is typical for foothill areas," said Monrovia Fire Chief Chris Donovan. "I am comfortable with the situation and the lack of wind."

The Pasadena Firefighter injured earlier in the day was able to be treated on scene and is doing fine.

Updated 6:40 pm - The Madison brush fire has now reached 170 acres and is still at 10% containment.  At this time, evacuation orders are still in place for all affected areas.  The Red Cross has set up a shelter for those evacuated at the Community Center, 119 W Palm Avenue, Monrovia, CA 91016.  The shelter will be available throughout the evacuation period. The City of Monrovia will alert residents as soon as evacuation orders are lifted, and residents can return to their homes.

For those with pets, the Pasadena Human Society (626) 792-7151 and Wonder Ranch Dog Ranch in Monrovia (626) 205-2501 are offering to board dogs and cats.

Please continue to check back for updates, or follow the City of Monrovia on Facebook or @MonroviaCA on Twitter.

Updated 4:25 pm - The brush fire now covers 150 acres.  Mandatory Evacuations have expanded to include the following neighborhoods:

• Crescent
• El Nido
• Highland from Foothill
• Franklin
• Scenic 400-500 blocks
• Cloverleaf, Lotone
• Hidden Valley
• Ridgeside
• Briar Cliff
• Golden Hills
• and everything west of Canyon Park North of Scenic.

There are now 65 fire engines, 6 hand crews, and additional resources responding, and one heat-related injury to a firefighter.

Updated 3:00pm: The Monrovia Police Department is closing the streets north of Foothill Blvd from Lincoln Place to Myrtle Avenue to all thru traffic. Residents will still be able to get to and from their homes.

Updated 2:00pm- At 11:15 a.m. on Saturday, April 20, the Monrovia Fire Department responded to a call of a brush fire in the Monrovia hillside at 322 N Madison Avenue.  As of 1:45pm, the fire covers 15 acres and is 10% contained.  So far 25 fire engines, three helicopters, and three brush crews have responded.  Several Fire agencies including the US Forest Services are cooperating to contain the fire.

At this time, Monrovia Fire Chief Chris Donovan is asking for a manditory evacuation of homes in the following areas:

• Heather Heights
• Alta Vista
• Melrose
• Magnolia
• Hidden Valley
• Mesa Circle
• Skyway
• Patrician Way

Residents will be notified of evacuations through door-to-door efforts by the Monrovia Police Department.

Temporary shelter will be available at the Monrovia Community Center, 119 West Palm Avenue, Monrovia, CA.  The Community Center can be reached at (626) 256-8246.  Water, food and some activities will be available.

No reported strucutres damage or injuries have been reported.  There is some concern about wind patterns picking up around 2 pm. "As long as we don't have the winds, we will be fine, but its not a Santa Ana day.  This is very old brush, over 55 years old, and a lot of fuel, but we have crews working very hard to contain the fire," said Monrovia Fire Chief Chris Donovan.

The Monrovia Fire Department will give another briefing around 2:45pm.

Residents can stay updated on the event on the City website, or by following @MonroviaCA on twitter or the City of Monrovia on Facebook.

April 20, 2013

April 19, 2013

The rupture occurred while Metro Gold Line crews were preparing a 16-inch water line for modification work next week when the line ruptured, causing thousands of gallons of water to flow out along Duarte Road and California Avenue, according to a statement issued by Metro Gold Line.

The incident resulted in temporarily impacted water service to surrounding businesses and to residents as far north as Cypress Avenue. By 10 a.m., Monrovia Public Works crews were able to turn off all of the valves to the line, stopping the flow of water out of the line.

“Our crews have been working non-stop since we received the call this morning to stop the leak, minimize all impacts to our customers and restore service,” City of Monrovia Public Works Director Ron Bow said. “We appreciate the patience of the businesses and residents who have been impacted, and expect service to return to normal for all customers by the end of the day.”

Businesses on the 1600 block of S. California Avenue were closed for the day as a result of the water leak, and some residents temporarily experienced low to zero water pressure. Sandbags were provided by the Monrovia Fire Department and Gold Line’s Contractor to businesses on Duarte Road to divert the water flow during the event.

City of Monrovia Public Works crews, Monrovia Firefighters, Arcadia Firefighters, Monrovia Police, and the Metro Gold Line Foothill Extension contractors were working throughout the day to remediate impacts caused by the broken pipe.

Detours were still in effect on Duarte Road between California and Shamrock as of 2 p.m. It is anticipated that Duarte Road will be re-opened before peak traffic hours.

If there are any further questions regarding this issue, call City Hall at 626-932-5550.

Updated: 9:30am.  There has been a main line water break on California at Duarte Rd. Some neighborhoods are experiencing low to zero water pressure due to this break.  Crews are currently making repairs and water has been restored to most affected areas.  Crews will continue to work on repairs until water service has been restored to all areas.

April 15, 2013

MONROVIA - Staff and trained emergency volunteers will get first-hand experience on how to respond to earthquake damage resulting in a failed reservoir and buckling apartment building from 10 a.m. to noon on Thursday during an emergency response drill lead by the Monrovia Fire Department.

These staged drills - which occur once a year - prepare the City for a real disaster. Residents can expect to see fire fighters, police and City Hall staff responding during this exercise with the same level of intensity as if this were real, fire officials said.

"Based on past events, such as the windstorms, and the ever-present concern for natural and/or man-made disasters, we continually train and hold emergency preparedness drills to ensure we are providing continuity in governmental service to our residents," said Monrovia Fire Chief Chris Donovan. "Events like the Boston Marathon bombings are unfortunate stark reminders that we cannot predict when a disaster will occur, but we can certainly continue to train and exercise our City staff and various stakeholders from the emergency response community to remain vigilant and prepared. That is the intent of Thursday's emergency drill."

The drills will involve nearly 70 people, made up of City Hall employees, volunteers, and Community Emergency Response Training participants. There will be two separate scenarios:

1) Response to a damaged reservoir to the point where it is gushing out water and impacting homes, and
2) A 3-story apartment building has begun to buckle and in it contains 10-15 people.

Activities will take place at the Emergency Operations Center at 140 E. Lime Avenue and Station 2 at 2055 S. Myrtle Avenue, which also contains an apartment training facility.

The exercises simulate responses that would result in the activation of the Emergency Operations Center. The last time the Emergency Operations Center was activated was during the Foothill Windstorm on Dec. 1, 2011. During that response, staff, volunteers and elected officials each contributed to the various types of responses that were needed to remove debris, provide electricity and continually provide the public with up-to-date information.

If Media would like to cover this event, please call Jennifer McLain at 626) 303.6601 to coordinate the appropriate location and times.

Contact: Jennifer McLain
(626) 303-6601
Cell Phone: 626-221-0207
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March 3, 2013

MONROVIA, CA. – A Monrovia couple was temporary displaced from their home Sunday morning when a fire caused by a faulty heating system erupted at their house on the 700 block of E. Lime Avenue. No one was injured during the incident.

The Monrovia Fire Department received the call at 9:25 a.m. and deployed 4 engine companys, 2 truck companys, 2 Batallion Chiefs and 1 paramedic squad. The fire was extinguished at approximately 10:15 a.m. There was an estimated $75,000 worth of structure loss and $25,000 of content loss.

February 21, 2013

MONROVIA, CA. –An underground explosion of a utility main prompted the evacuation of businesses and a street closure on West Chestnut Avenue between Fifth Avenue to Monterrey Avenue this morning.

The Monrovia Fire Department received a call at 8:35 a.m. on Thursday morning of steam coming out of a four-foot opening on the street. World Vision, at 800 W. Chestnut Avenue, was temporarily evacuated, and the street.

No residential units were evacuated, and the freeway remained open.

Southern California Edison arrived on scene at 8:45 a.m. and determined that electrical wiring in the vault exploded. Edison isolated the circuit at 9 a.m., and allowed occupants back to their businesses.

February 6, 2013

MONROVIA, CA. – A 1.8 acre park that had its aging and vandalized playground equipment removed more than two years ago will finally get some of the funding it needs.

On Tuesday, Councilwoman Becky Shevlin announced that Los Angeles County Supervisor Michael Antonovich awarded a $250,000 grant to the City of Monrovia for the refurbishing of Julian Fisher Park, at Almond and California Avenues. The money is coming from Safe Neighborhoods Parks Propositions of 1992 and 1996, commonly referred to as Proposition A/Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District. It is expected to be received by the City in three months.

It has not yet been determined what exactly the money will be used for in refurbishing the park, “but we are extremely excited and thankful to have the funds and look forward to putting it to good use in the near future,” Councilwoman Shevlin said.

Mayor Mary Ann Lutz said she is grateful to both Supervisor Antonovich and Councilwoman Shevlin for working together to secure these funds for a park that has been on the forefront of many community members’ minds.

“We have heard from residents for several years now that they want to see improvements at Julian Fisher Park,” Mayor Lutz said. “It is refreshing to be able to say to the community that not only have we been listening, but we finally have some funding to make a change.”

The Julian Fisher improvements and equipment upgrades have been on the City Council’s approved Parks Capital Projects list for many years, but as an unfunded project. The playground equipment alone has a $350,000 price tag. Adding restrooms and upgrading the basketball courts, water fountains, gazebos and picnic benches are also on the improvement list but are still unfunded.

Family members of Mr. Fisher said they are elated that the park will be restored, and that it is a reminder to continue fundraising efforts to make up for the remaining funding gap.

“On behalf of the Fisher family, we are ecstatic to hear that we have received this funding,” said Betty Thomas, a longtime Monrovia resident and granddaughter of Mr. Fisher.

The park is named after Julian Fisher, one of Monrovia’s first African American police officers. Mr. Fisher was educated in the Monrovia schools and was the first African American male to graduate from the high school. He also played as a semi-professional baseball player for the Monrovia Merchants. Mr. Fisher was a respected member of the community and the police department, where he served for 30 years. He passed away in 1979 at the age of 82.

Mrs. Thomas said she will be announcing the receipt of the grant and the continued fundraising efforts at a Black History Month event hosted by the Monrovia-Duarte Black Alumni Association on Saturday, February 9 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Julian Fisher Park.

“Receiving this funding will hopefully light a fire under the community as work to continue to raise funds for this park,” Thomas said. “Our main concern has been the full utilization of the park, and hopefully this funding and future fundraising will allow us to do that.”

Julian Fisher is one of seven parks in the City.

“In working with our cities and town councils, developing parks and open space recreational areas is a vital part of the County’s effort to improve the quality of life for our residents,” Supervisor Antonovich said. “We are pleased to announce $250,000 to the City of Monrovia to refurbish Julian Fisher Park.”

December 3, 2012

MONROVIA, CA - Interested in serving as a Monrovia City Council member? Want to make a change in your community by serving as an elected official but not sure where to start? Then the Monrovia's City Clerk's office is here to help.

In preparation for the April 9, 2013 Monrovia General Municipal Election, the Monrovia City Clerk's Office will be hosting a pre-nomination candidate information meeting on Wednesday, Dec. 5. This meeting will offer valuable insight on how to run for one of the five available elected positions in Monrovia. Information will include an overview of forms, campaign reporting requirements, and important timelines.

"I began this candidate information meeting several years ago in an effort to raise awareness about what it means to be a candidate so that people weren't blind-sided when they came to pull nomination papers," said City Clerk Alice Atkins. "Hopefully this meeting demystifies the process for them."

The period to file nomination papers opens on Dec. 17, 2012, and ends Jan. 11, 2013. Positions open for the upcoming Monrovia General Municipal Election are: Mayor (2 years), two City Council seats (4 years), City Treasurer (4 years), and City Clerk (4 years). The Municipal Election is April 9, 2013.

The meeting is open to anyone interested in running for local government in any city or who simply want to learn more about the election process. All Monrovia and non-Monrovia residents are welcome to attend.

The meeting will be:
Wednesday, Dec. 5, 2012
6:00p.m.
Monrovia Community Center, 119 W Palm Avenue.

To attend the Candidate Information meeting, please RSVP to the City Clerk's Office to (626) 932-5505.

November 20, 2012

MONROVIA, CA - The City of Monrovia is pleased to announce the launch of Plan Monrovia, a strategic planning process that engages and solicits community feedback to build a roadmap for Monrovia for the next five years. Using a new comprehensive community engagement website, developed by MindMixer, citizens can engage, communicate and collaborate with city leaders and other residents on future planning for the city.

Plan Monrovia is about understanding and voicing the highest priorities for the community and developing City services that meet those needs.

Along the way, the Plan Monrovia website will be used as an online tool to generate new ideas and feedback from citizens to help the city prioritize projects. The goal is to obtain widespread input because as the city moves forward, leaders want to know what is important to every citizen in Monrovia.

Feedback from the engagement website will be used by the city manager and other planners in order to create a roadmap for Monrovia's programs and services for the next five years.

While Monrovia's budget is structurally balanced, since 2008, the City has seen a 17% reduction in staffing positions, a $2 million cut of expenditures to some of the city's key programs. Sales tax revenues have been down 25% and property taxes remain flat. This means that the city must prioritize the programs and services it provides and take a new look at what Monrovia could be doing.

"We are looking to the community to help answer the question, ‘What are the most important things the City should focus on over the next five years,'" said City Manager Laurie Lile. "Like most cities in California, our resources are more limited now, which means we may not be able to provide all of the services we used to or perhaps not in the exact same way. The purpose of this process is to engage our residents, businesses, students, and all Monrovians in discussion about how City resources should be allocated to the community."

Plan Monrovia gives contributors a chance to share new ideas, second others' ideas, expand upon existing ideas and give feedback on initiatives, working with the city on a variety of topics online anytime, anywhere.

The discussion will start with topics like these, and branch off from there based on contributor input:
• What are your priorities for Monrovia?
• For every $1,000 of city funds, how would you divvy up the money?

Plan Monrovia measures and tracks participation, identifying the most interested citizens and most compelling topics. MindMixer's tools make it easy for administrations to communicate back with citizens, and they deliver measurable results and invaluable insights for the city.

"Monrovia is committed to making this process transparent and interactive. We are listening and hope to hear your thoughts and ideas," says Mayor Mary Ann Lutz. "We hope everyone in our community gets involved in this process. All of the ideas and community voices expressed go into how the City Council makes decisions about programs and services in our upcoming 2013-2015 budget. I encourage all Monrovians to sign on to PlanMonrovia.org."

Nick Bowden, CEO of MindMixer, says, "Our tools go beyond just technology. Our mission is to build community contributors. Ideas, voices and perspectives are shared to facilitate deeper and better conversations that yield actionable insights and a stronger community."

As part of its service, MindMixer consults and collaborates with clients to identify issues that are critical to stakeholders in order to update topics and content for their websites.

Apart from the PlanMonrovia.org, the City of Monrovia is offering a myriad of high and low tech ways for Monrovians to get involved and discuss what they value about Monrovia:

"What are the most important things the City should focus on over the next five years?"

Go Online
www.PlanMonrovia.org

Community Workshops
December 11, 2012
Tuesday, 7-9pm
Monrovia Community Center
119 W Palm Ave, Monrovia, CA

January 12, 2013
Saturday, 9-11am
Calvary Chapel Monrovia
123 W Pomona Ave, Monrovia, CA

Email us
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Call us
(626) 932-5555 x1402

Text in your answers
(626) 219-0845
(text messaging rates apply)

Follow us on Facebook & Twitter
City of Monrovia,
@MonroviaCA, #PlanMonrovia

November 5, 2012

MONROVIA, CA- Kick off the holiday season on Thursday, December 6 and enjoy the Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony and Holiday Parade. The evening begins with the Tree Lighting ceremony at 6 p.m. at Library Park, on the corner of Myrtle and Lime Avenues. The Holiday Parade will begin at 7 p.m., traveling north on Myrtle Avenue from Chestnut to Palm Avenue. This year's parade theme is "All that Glitters is Gold" in celebration of this year's Grand Marshal, Kim Rhode, U.S. Olympic Gold Medalist. The parade is sponsored by the Monrovia Old Town merchants.

Contact: Lisa Hansberger

Recreation Supervisor
(626) 256-8246
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October 16, 2012

MONROVIA, CA- The Department of Community Services is hosting the Annual "Haunted Happenings" Halloween Event on Wednesday, October 31 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., at Library Park, on 321 South Myrtle Avenue. The afternoon will be filled with ghoulish fun for the entire family. The ever-popular Costume Contest is free of charge with registration beginning at 3 p.m. Don't forget to also register your pooch in the Dog Costume Contest. The event is offered in cooperation with the Santa Anita Family YMCA and the Boys & Girls Club of the Foothills. This event is made possible by VIP sponsor J. Harrington Construction, Corp. • Athens Services • Sierra Autocars, Inc. • Wendy's Hamburgers • Huntington Veterinary Hospital • Consolidated Republic Services • Thomas Hoffman and Ashley Andrews, LLP. The Halloween Event will be held in the Community Center in the event of rain. For additional information, please contact the Department of Community Services at (626) 256-8246.

The Monrovia Old Town Merchants will be sponsoring a "Trick-or-Treat" Event on Wednesday, October 31, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., on Myrtle Avenue; rain or shine.

Be sure and bring your "little goblins" to what promises to be a hauntingly fun Halloween Event!

September 27, 2012

MONROVIA, CA- The City of Monrovia has been chosen for a pilot technology program to engage citizens: Textizen.  This free SMS text-based platform works by having residents respond via text message to questions posted in various places around the City.  Joining the ranks of cities like Philadelphia, Chicago, Detroit and New Orleans, Monrovia has been chosen for one of 40 cities across the country to use this breakthrough technology.  From Old Town kiosks, business windows, to the Library and City Hall, Monrovians are asked questions on specific community topics.

Starting with a Fill-Up Old Town campaign, the City’s Economic Development Department is actively seeking out input from residents, shoppers and businesses via text message to weigh in on what new businesses the City should attract to Old Town.  Those walking through Old Town and along Myrtle Avenue can expect to see posters and flyers asking them questions about why they came and what businesses they would like to see.  Anyone interested in answering merely need to text in the answer, and respond to several follow-up questions afterwards.

Textizen has been launched by the San Francisco-based non-profit, Code for America, allowing community members to sound off on issues using nothing more than a cell phone.  For the next several months, Monrovia will be utilizing the technology across town, asking questions about business, parks, transportation and budgeting.  The City of Monrovia encourages everyone with text capabilities to join in the discussion.  Text messaging rates apply, and cell phone numbers will never be shared or used.

“Textizen is a very exciting new technology.  What we hope to do is hear all Monrovia voices, including the ones who maybe want to get involved in the City planning process, but don’t have time to attend a community meeting, or take a longer survey,” said City Manager Laurie Lile.  “We encourage people to text in with ideas about bringing more business to our historic Old Town.”

Initial Textizen questions will be posted on the City’s website, www.cityofmonrovia.org, on the City’s Facebook and Twitter feeds, and throughout the Old Town District.

Posted August 29,2012

MONROVIA, CA - A local developer who has built several office parks along Huntington Drive is suing the City of Monrovia and the former Redevelopment Agency for $106 million - a sum nearly three and a half times the City's general fund budget.

"Samuelson & Fetter has levied upon us a lawsuit that would destroy the community that they helped create," Mayor Pro Tem Joe Garcia said. "We are shocked and saddened that they felt it was necessary to take this action."

"$106 million? That would cause extreme financial hardship for the City," Mayor Mary Ann Lutz said. "We are at a loss to explain why they believe they have suffered this level of injury, or any injury at all, for an alleged breach of an agreement under which Samuelson & Fetter was never able to perform. We have always been partners, and thought that we shared the same goal - to bring a quality, transit oriented development to an area of Monrovia that is in need of amenities, including open space."

The complaint, filed on behalf of Samuelson & Fetter on Aug. 24, alleges Monrovia did not live up to its agreements with the developer regarding the Station Square Transit Village, an 80-acre transit oriented development located just south of the I-210 Freeway.

Specifically, according to the complaint, Samuelson & Fetter alleges that it lost nearly $100 million in profit when the former Redevelopment Agency diverted some of the property planned for residential and commercial development to the Gold Line for use of a public rail project.

"Samuelson & Fetter was made aware of these circumstances and has been at the table the whole time," City Manager Laurie Lile said. "We have been working with them diligently to settle our disagreements and lay out a land plan that acknowledges the requirements of the Gold Line, while providing a lot that would be suitable for development. We were surprised that they filed suit at this time, when our discussions seemed to be progressing in a positive direction. This lawsuit, however, threatens to unravel the fabric of the community in search of an unrealistic profit on the backs of our residents."

The development agreement, signed in 2006, was between Samuelson & Fetter and the former Redevelopment Agency. Once the Redevelopment Agency was dissolved in 2011 as a result of state legislation, the Successor Agency took over the functions of the former Redevelopment Agency. At the heart of the issue is that Samuelson & Fetter blames the former Redevelopment Agency for impairing their development and cutting into their projected profit margin.

But Monrovia believes it was doing what it set out to do since the beginning of the project: provide what residents and commuters need through the extension of the Gold Line and creation of a station in Monrovia. Since 2006, when the agreement was signed, the City has worked to preserve a transit-oriented development in Monrovia. However, changing circumstances have affected the constructability of the project:

• Years of adverse economic conditions have softened the real estate market and have made construction financing difficult to obtain;
• In 2011, the State barred Redevelopment Agencies from making any amendments to outstanding development agreements;
• The Monrovia Redevelopment Agency was dissolved in 2011, along with all other Redevelopment Agencies in the state, by an act of the California Legislature;
• Site selection of a Maintenance and Operations facility to serve the Gold Line shifted to the location in Monrovia when other locations became unavailable; and,
• Property south of the railroad tracks could not be acquired to provide a location for construction of a public parking structure to service the Monrovia Gold Line commuters, shifting the obligation to provide parking on Agency-owned land.

The Monrovia-based developer, who since 1980 has developed 750,000 square feet of office and research development space on Huntington and Royal Oaks Drives, is seeking $3 million in attorneys' fees, an alleged $33.2 million in "lost entitlement values" and $70.4 million in alleged "lost profits caused by the City," according to the lawsuit.

In contrast, Monrovia's general fund budget is nearly $30 million, with $12 million going to fund the police department and $8 million to the fire department. The remaining $10 million funds public works, administration, parks, the library, and recreation-related activities.

Most of the 80 acres comprised of the Station Square Transit Village development is privately owned. The former Redevelopment Agency owns about seven acres. Samuelson & Fetter owns less than 10,000 square feet.

Though Samuelson & Fetter claims that Monrovia is out of compliance with its agreement, it is actually the developer who has not been able to comply with the terms of the agreement. After numerous failed attempts to urge Samuelson & Fetter to perform under the agreement, in February 2012, Samuelson & Fetter was sent a Notice of Default by the former Agency because, among other reasons, the company failed to close escrow on and purchase the Agency's land by 2011, as set forth in the agreement.

Despite this lawsuit, City officials are still optimistic they can reach a resolution and continue on the path to delivering the Gold Line Station, improved amenities, and new housing and office units to Monrovia.

"In the end, I am optimistic that we all want what is best for Monrovia," Mayor Lutz said. "Monrovia is committed to an amicable resolution, and we hope that we will be able to resolve our differences." Mayor Pro Tem Garcia concurs, "I too am hopeful that we find a solution that meets the needs of both the community and the developer."

Contact: Laurie Lile, City Manager
(626) 932-5501