Newsletter

City of Lomita Celebrates 60^th Anniversary

The California JPIA recognizes the City of Lomita, which celebrates its 60^th Anniversary this year.

A significant development in what would eventually become the City of Lomita began in 1907 when the W. I. Hollingsworth Company purchased a seven-square-mile tract of land to develop. Soon after, roads were built, wells were dug, a school was formed, and early businesses began. An unexpected oil discovery in 1923 transformed Lomita, significantly increasing property values and dedicating much of the land to the oil industry. Some of the original tract of land was also purchased by the Los Angeles Board of Education and annexed by neighboring cities.

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By the time Lomita was incorporated in 1964, it was a 1.87-square-mile city. Since then, Lomita has grown into a vibrant community known for its rich history, welcoming residents, and strong community spirit. To commemorate this milestone, the city has organized a series of events that bring the community together in celebration and highlight the city’s unique charm.

“On behalf of my City Council colleagues and our hard-working employees, I thank the California JPIA for their ongoing support,” says Mayor Pro-Tem and JPIA Executive Committee member Mark Waronek. “For the last 60 years, we have made wonderful strides to keep Lomita a safe place to work and play, and it is our commitment to continue to build on those efforts as we look to the future.”

The celebration kicked off with the two-day Founders’ Day Festival on June 29. The festival included live music, food trucks, carnival rides and games, community performances and a local artisan craft market. The event included a fireworks display.

Residents gathered at the Lomita Railroad Museum in early June for a day dedicated to Lomita’s rich history. The event included historical reenactments, guided tours of the Lomita Railroad Museum, and storytelling sessions by local historians. Families enjoyed picnics on the lawn while children participated in old-fashioned games and crafts, giving them a glimpse into the city’s past.

“I have served as Lomita’s regional risk manager for nearly 12 years and enjoy working with city staff,” said Senior Risk Manager Melaina Francis. “Lomita is the cutest little city in the South Bay. City staff and officials are very risk-minded and participate in many of the California JPIA’s programs, training, academies, and annual Risk Management Educational Forum. They contact me whenever they have a risk-related issue or question, and it’s a pleasure to assist them.”

August will feature the National Night Out & Car Show and Summer Concert. Residents can interact with the Lomita Sheriff’s Deputies during National Night Out and enjoy performances from Upstream and 80s All-Starz during the Summer Concert Series.

The 60^th anniversary of Lomita is not just a celebration of the past but also a tribute to the community’s resilience and togetherness. These events have and will provide opportunities for residents to connect, celebrate their shared heritage, and look forward to the future with optimism.

The Authority congratulates the City of Lomita for 60 years of excellence!

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