Congresswoman Judy Chu and former Mayor and CM Chin Ho Liao (Photo Cheryl Cabot)
Tuesday’s San Gabriel City Council meeting was significant for several reasons.
By Cheryl Cabot
Two new city council members were sworn in after an extensive interview process. In addition, Chin Ho Liao, former San Gabriel City Council member and two-time Mayor, was honored for his long service to the community.
The first opening occurred when Jason Pu was appointed by the Biden White House as HUD Regional Director for Region 9, the largest in the country.
The second occurred when Mr. Liao recently resigned his post citing health issues. He was lauded at Tuesday’s City Council meeting by national, county and local dignitaries for his work on the Council to improve the City of San Gabriel as well as involvement in many civic organizations.
Honoring Chin Ho Liao
Congresswoman Judy Chu said, “Chin Ho Liao developed a remarkable legacy by working hard and making San Gabriel a truly special place”
Liao’s election to the City Council in 2013 was fraught with racism and efforts to prevent him from being seated on the Council after he was duly elected.
In recognizing Liao’s perseverance in facing this adversity, Councilmember Denise Menchaca said to him, “I think one of the greatest legacies is the fact that you showed courage during a very stressful time. You stood strong by the community when there were attempts to overthrow the ballot in the Vincent Lugo area.”
“You stood strong with a lot of members of our community who wanted to keep democracy in our city. You led that charge and I know it was very painful, but you were determined to make sure every ballot was counted. And I want to thank you for that.”
Newly appointed CMs Carina Rivera and John Wu (Photo – Cheryl Cabot)
New Council members take oath
Carina Rivera and John Wu were then administered the oath of office to become the two newest City Council members. The two were selected from 21 candidates following a two-day interview process.
Ms. Rivera is a long-time resident of San Gabriel and has operated the El Pavo Bakery for 18 years. In her decision to apply for the City Council position, she said, “Public service is a debt we owe to each other.”
The oath of office was administered to Ms. Rivera by Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda Solis. On becoming Councilwoman Rivera, she said, “I am very humbled by this appointment. My purpose is to be part of the community and get to know the people of San Gabriel. I want to be a voice for the common person.”
Mr. Wu has 21 years of experience in the real estate industry and community services in San Gabriel. He intends to leverage his experience to help attract and retain businesses as well as enhance engagement with the business community.
After taking the oath of office administered by Representative Judy Chu, Councilmember Wu said,” I am excited to join the San Gabriel City Council and work closely with fellow councilmembers and the city’s dedicated staff to elevate the City’s business profile.”
The City Council reorganization will take place at the next meeting on Tuesday, March 1, 2022.
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