Library and schools update; resident urges county‑city protocol for homeless encampments near school

City staff and local school officials used the Dec. 10 council meeting to report on programs and services for Hawaiian Gardens residents.

Irene Zapata, library manager, invited residents to December children’s activities and a community program on media history. ABC Unified School District President Francisco Noyola and Dr. Myra Lozano summarized school‑site events, mental‑health supports, and district partnerships: a community clinic at Burbank Elementary now open weekdays offering immunizations and TB tests, district foster and homeless liaisons, and social‑emotional learning programs. The district highlighted student recognitions, tutoring and winter concerts across local schools.

During public comment Marcela Trujillo asked the council to develop a protocol with LA County Flood Control to respond faster to recurring homeless encampments in the county flood‑control channel directly behind Fide Fidey Middle School and St. Peter Chanel Church. She said county cleanup scheduling is slow, that encampments re‑establish soon after removal, and that the location poses safety concerns for nearby students. A sheriff’s representative (Sergeant Botales) described county responsibility for the channel, noted outreach and enforcement that local deputies can provide, and urged coordination so the county will institute repair/work orders when gates, locks and signage are damaged.

Council thanked presenters and acknowledged the need for intergovernmental coordination; no formal action was taken on the encampments item during this meeting.