City Hall News: Center median landscaping plan approved

La Mirada-  The city council advanced an upcoming project to replace center median landscaping on

several major roadways by approving the design plan without discussion during their last meeting.

New median landscaping will be installed the entire length of La Mirada Blvd and Rosecrans Ave within city limits as well as a one-mile stretch of Valley View Ave between Imperial Hwy and Rosecrans Ave.

An emergency executive order put in place by Gov. Jerry Brown during the drought banning the use of potable water to water medians is responsible for the die-off of the turf as well as major damage that the trees have suffered.  The ban has since been made permanent.

A new design that includes cobblestones and concrete, as well as turf and trees addresses the new restrictions.

The city clerk will now advertise a request for bids on the work staff estimates will carry a price tag at close to $4 million.

Assembly Majority Leader makes an appearance

Assembly Majority Leader Ian Calderon, (D-Whittier)  presented the council with an oversized check similar to those seen at a lottery winner dog and pony show highlighting the $400,000 grant he was able to secure from state funds that are being used for upgrades at the La Mirada Theatre.

Calderon revealed that he has used the Theatre as a venue for functions over the years and that it will always be a special place to him.

Securing money from the state and bringing it back to the people of his district is one of the key obligations Calderon feels strongly about fulfilling.

The money that will come from the grant will be combined with money allocated from the city budget to pay for the recently completed seat replacement project and one in January that will upgrade the sound system, followed by improvements to the smaller presentation lounge on the second floor.

Additional funding request for Symphony approved

The city council approved a request presented during it's October 9th Study Session by the La Mirada Symphony for additional financial assistance during the current fiscal year that will enable the organization to secure rehearsal locations during the Symphony season.

In-kind donations of up to $40,000 is the value city staff has determined use of the Theater or the  Activity Center when the Theatre is not available, and an additional $5,000 monetary donation will allow the Symphony to use another location if both city-owned locations were unavailable.

The city had already allocated $26,474 in the current budget that funds Symphony materials, ads, box office, and Theatre administration costs.

The Symphony holds four free concerts for the public as well as two events for local students. 

The first free concert is on November 19th.