Baldwin Park swears in Daniel Damien as mayor; Jean Amayala sworn as mayor pro tem

Daniel Damien was sworn in as mayor of Baldwin Park at the council’s Dec. 17 meeting as the council completed its annual reorganization and ceremonial presentations. The council followed its stated reorganization procedure, which designates the sitting mayor pro tem to succeed to the mayor’s role; Damien took the oath and accepted the gavel after the council voted 5–0 to appoint him.

The council presented a plaque and flowers to outgoing Mayor Alejandra Avila, who was praised by visiting officials for crisis leadership during the year, including state Sen. Susan Rubio and representatives for Congressman Gopa Cisneros and Assemblywoman Blanca Rubio. Avila told the council she was honored to serve and thanked staff and the community.

Jean Amayala was sworn in as mayor pro tem in a separate oath administered by City Clerk Christopher Saenz. The new leadership exchanged brief remarks emphasizing unity and gratitude to city staff. Council members said they plan to continue priorities including public safety and infrastructure during the coming year.

The ceremony included multiple proclamations and thank‑yous from neighboring jurisdictions and state offices and concluded with a brief recess before the council resumed regular business.