Montebello Police Chief Appointed to La Habra Council

Montebello Police Chief George S. Simonian on Thursday was appointed to become this city’s newest council member, receiving a unanimous vote from his new colleagues.

Simonian, 52, replaces David M. Cheverton, who resigned last month because of increased work duties, nearly a year before his elected term was to have expired.

Simonian, who has lived in La Habra for the past 27 years, said he was surprised that he was chosen from a list of 15 candidates that included two former mayors, two city commissioners and a distinguished community volunteer.

“I really, really love this community and I really owe it a great deal,” he said, adding he likely will run for election in November to try to keep the seat. “I look forward to doing something to pay that debt back.”