On Tuesday, April 15, 2025, the San Gabriel City Council chambers were abuzz with celebrations as Denise Menchaca was sworn in as Mayor and Eric L. Chan was sworn in as Vice Mayor. Rep. Judy Chu administered the oath of office to Menchaca, the first Latina elected to the San Gabriel City Council. This is Menchaca’s second time serving as Mayor.
“My first term began in March 2020,” said Menchaca, “a time marked by virtual meetings and unprecedented events due to the COVID-19 pandemic. We experienced weekly Mayoral videos to the community, the Mission Church fire, and a notable visit from Governor Newsom and actor Sean Penn, who came to observe our community-based vaccine distribution model at the Mission Playhouse.”
Menchaca’s upcoming term will feature “building on our City’s progress. This is a dynamic time to reflect, grow, and introduce new services and programs that will enhance the spirit and greatness of San Gabriel, filled with pride, warmth, and lasting memories for generations to come.”
San Gabriel also honored their Outstanding Older American, Rick Khan. Khan was honored for his outstanding work during the pandemic. Along with Mosque San Gabriel, he was responsible for providing hot meals and groceries to anyone experiencing food insecurity.
Menchaca congratulated Khan, referencing, “What truly speaks to Rick’s heart is his commitment to dignity. When he learned that many of our homebound seniors were receiving frozen meals, he asked, ‘How can we do better?’ He ensured they received hot, nourishing meals that not only brought comfort but care. Even now, Rick has continued to coordinate food drives, distribute school supplies, and provide basic necessities to those most in need.”
The evening’s festivities concluded with a celebration of the 115th birthday of the City of San Gabriel. Founded in 1771, San Gabriel is considered by many the birthplace of the Los Angeles Region. The City serves as the home of the San Gabriel Mission, the Mission Playhouse, and has become a hub of restaurants, arts and culture.
For more information about the City of San Gabriel, visit the City’s Web site.
