Progress Rings True in Bell Gardens

How stunned and disappointed we were to once again see Frank del Olmo paint Bell Gardens and Latino politics with a broad brush of prejudice (“Latino Activists Should Not Ignore the Dirty Pols,” Commentary, Dec. 9). His preconceived notion that a few wayward Latino politicians have destroyed southeast communities like Bell Gardens is absolutely absurd.

Del Olmo’s commentary fails to mention the great accomplishments of the majority of Latino elected officials in low-income, blue-collar communities like Bell Gardens. The current City Council has a clear vision for improving city services, building new shopping malls, developing more low-income, single-family homes and bringing in new businesses that will provide meaningful employment and essential tax revenue. It has successfully maintained a balanced budget while improving our parks and streets, expanding police services and enhancing programs and services for our senior citizens.

We recently constructed one of California’s largest skate parks in our community and improved and expanded sports and recreation programs for our youth. We are currently building over 60 affordable single-family homes and assisting residents with their purchases through our first-time homeowners program. We even provide home improvement grants to residents who need help with major home repairs. The success of the Bell Gardens Job Referral and Career Center has surpassed all expectations by providing hundreds of residents with new jobs. A city-sponsored program even provides working parents with child day care. Our Academic Pursuit Loan Program continues to assist students pursuing a higher education by providing interest-free college loans.

Ramiro Morales

Mayor, Bell Gardens