Whittier Boulevard Annexation Complete

The City of Whittier is pleased to announce the successful annexation of approximately 90 acres of unincorporated Los Angeles County territory, including portions of Whittier Boulevard and West Whittier. This strategic expansion, approved by the Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) on November 13, 2024, is a significant milestone in the City’s history, representing the first major annexation effort since 1961.

Annexation is the formal process of incorporating unincorporated land into the jurisdiction of a city. This effort marks the beginning of Whittier’s efforts to enhance local oversight and bring uniformity to key services, development, and branding along this vital corridor. Additionally, the process involves relinquishment, which refers to the eventual transfer of ownership and jurisdictional control of Whittier Boulevard from Caltrans to the City, enabling cohesive planning and infrastructure improvements.

Annexation Process

City Council Action: The annexation proposal was initiated and supported by the City Council through Resolution No. 2021-67, outlining the City’s vision for the area.
LAFCO Review & Approval: The proposal was submitted to LAFCO, which conducted an extensive evaluation, including a public hearing and formal notices sent to affected residents and businesses.
Public Engagement & Protest Period: A dedicated protest period allowed stakeholders to provide feedback or objections. The process culminated in a public hearing on November 13, 2024, where the annexation was formally approved.
Coordination with County & State: Transition efforts began between Los Angeles County, Caltrans, and the City of Whittier to ensure a seamless transfer of responsibilities and services.

The City is now focused on implementing improvements and working closely with its new residents and businesses to ensure a smooth transition.

Supporting Documents

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

General Information

Annexation will bring affected areas under the jurisdiction of the City of Whittier, allowing for local governance and services. Below is a breakdown of specific services that will change once the transition is complete:

Local Governance: Newly incorporated residents will gain the right to vote in City municipal elections and access Whittier City Council representatives.
Schools: Assigned public schools will remain the same.
9-1-1/Police Services: Calls for service will be handled by the Whittier Police Department.
Fire & Medical Emergency Response: Services remain under the Los Angeles County Fire Department.
Trash: Transition to Athens Services, the City’s hauler, will occur in 2025. Residents should contact their current haulers (Valley Vista or Universal Waste Systems) for trash-related issues until then. The City Customer Service Line at (562) 567-9530 can also be used for general trash inquiries and to report illegal dumping in the public right-of-way.
Street Sweeping: Performed by the City of Whittier Public Works Department.
Animal Control: Services remain under Los Angeles County Department of Animal Control.
Code Enforcement: The City of Whittier Police Department will oversee code enforcement services.
Graffiti Abatement: The City of Whittier will handle graffiti removal in public areas.

City Service Questions

Who should I call for service?

Trash Pick-Up Issues: Contact your current hauler (Valley Vista or Universal Waste Systems) for service-related concerns. The City Customer Service Line at (562) 567-9530 can also be used for general trash inquiries and to report illegal dumping in the public right-of-way.
Sewer Maintenance Issues: Contact the City of Whittier Public Works Department at (562) 567-9500.
Graffiti or Code Enforcement Issues: Report concerns to the Whittier Police Department’s Code Enforcement Division at (562) 567-9190.

How do I register for classes, camps, or activities? You can continue registering for County programs and now have access to City programs. Explore opportunities at WhittierRec.com.