At the August 13 Meeting, the members and guests heard a presentation by Assemblymember Anthony Rendon, 63rd Assembly District with his District Director, Raul Alvarez. Preceding this, Assemblymember Mike Gipson, 64th Assembly District, also spoke to the large audience of more than 30 persons, plus more than 10 persons from Roosevelt ES Youthact, to include Fernando and Tila Millan and three parents. Also in attendance was Barry Heads, Field Representative for Assemblymember Gipson.

Before introducing the two assemblymembers, Daniel recognized, (sitting at separate tables), Lynwood Mayor Jose Solache, Councilmember Salvador Alatorre and Councilmember Edwin Hernanedez.

Assemblymember Gibson expressed his appreciation for being able to address the audience. He noted that his district, includes a small portion of the City of Lynwood. One issue he mentioned was the status of Compton College, which has been administered by El Camino College since Compton lost its accreditation in 2006. He mentioned a recent important meeting that addressed what remains to be completed in order for Compton College to be accredited again, and thus be operated again on an independent basis.

Assemblymember Rendon began his presentation by complementing Assemblymember Gibson for being selected to head up the very important Joint Legislative Audit Committee. He explained how this committee plays an important role in reviewing and making recommendations on many issues within the California Legislature. He noted that it was unusual for a new assemblymember to be selected for this important responsibility.

Assemblymember Rendon noted his work during the last legislative session involved chairing a committee that involved issues relating to state parks and to water issues. He mentioned the decisions being made about changes to the LA River, to make the river to serve as parkland and recreational purposes. He noted that so far, these changes only involve the portion of the LA River within the City of LA, and that he intends to help make changes in the LA River south of the LA River, on its way to the ocean in Long Beach. He also noted that in the coming year he will address the issue of the operation of the California Public Utilities Commission, in particular, to legislate more strict requirements that the PUC conduct all their communications with the regulated utility companies following procedures that require all communications with the utility companies to be open to public access (that is to prohibit private communications between the companies and the PUC), Regarding funding the costs of the closure of the Edison Nuclear Power Plant,he explained that Edison officials had negotiated privately with the PUC before the public hearing was held on how much of the costs would be born by the company and how much by the rate structure charged to the customers.

Among the questions asked by attendees, one related to storm water. He noted that the water bond will help with the costs of capturing storm water run off. But there is more that needs to be accomplished with respect to providing adequate and safe water for our communities. On the subject of more transparent government procedures, Irene Garcia asked about more specifics for city requirements. There was a discussion about what information is available through city web sites.

Club President Martina Rodriguez thanked both Assemblymembers for coming to this meeting. Before the assemblymembers spoke she talked about the Rotary District 5280 Breakfast meeting that she attended and the speakers topic of Adult Literacy Training. Two representatives from the LA City Central Library talked about the programs they offered and the benefits to participants. Martina said that she will have these speakers come to a Lynwood Rotary meeting, so that we can know about classes for Lynwood residents.

Daniel Miller / Omar Franco Public Relations and Community Outreach for Lynwood Rotary