Long Beach
Office of the Mayor

City Hall Office
411 West Ocean Blvd. 11th Floor
Long Beach, CA 90802
(562) 570-6801
mayor@longbeach.gov
5/2/2023
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEPress Release # MRR-050223
Subject:
Highlighting Opportunity and Diversity: Mayor Rex Richardson Appoints 32 New City Commissioners
Appointments are the First Since New Policy Change Allowed All Residents To Serve on City Commissions
Contact:
Malini Basu
562.570.6801
malini.basu@longbeach.gov
Director of Communications
Office of Mayor Rex Richardson




LONG BEACH, CA — Mayor Rex Richardson has appointed a diverse and experienced slate of 32 new city commissioners who are ready to serve the Long Beach community. These new commissioners, who embody Long Beach's diversity and commitment to inclusion, were selected as part of the "Ready to Serve" campaign, which aims to remove barriers so any resident can serve on a city commission.

"I am proud to present a highly motivated and qualified slate of new city commissioners. These are leaders who reflect Long Beach's diversity and spirit of unity,” said Mayor Rex Richardson. "Together, we will expand opportunity and chart a future where every community has a seat at the table and an opportunity to thrive."

In March, the City of Long Beach approved a policy change modifying the City's commission appointments process in order to remove barriers to civic participation for all residents, including seniors and residents with income restrictions, as well undocumented residents.

This new cohort of commissioners includes individuals who have overcome personal adversity, senior residents looking to serve their community, and seasoned community leaders and economic development practitioners.

One of the commissioners, Jose Osuna, has been a leading voice in the fight for justice for those who have experienced incarceration for well over a decade. Having experienced over 13 years of incarceration himself, Jose entered the Homeboy Industries program as a participant and eventually became their Director of External Affairs. He is currently the Director of External Affairs for Brilliant Corners, a statewide housing organization that focuses on the development of permanent supportive housing for special needs communities, including those that have been impacted by the criminal justice system.

The appointment of the 32 new city commissioners by Mayor Rex Richardson highlights the city's unwavering commitment to diversity and equity in representation, with 17 women (comprising 53% of the group) and 59% people of color included as part of this cohort. The new commissioners are prepared to serve and bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to their new roles.

Please join the Mayor and City Council in the Civic Chambers at City Hall (411 West Ocean Blvd) at 5:00 p.m. today to welcome the new commissioners.

View a complete list of the newly appointed Commissioners here.

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About Mayor Richardson: Rex Richardson is a husband, father, and the 29th Mayor of Long Beach.

Mayor Richardson’s history in Long Beach is grounded in empowering communities to have a seat at the table. He believes that everyone, no matter their circumstance, deserves the opportunity to thrive. He works to change the culture of city hall to be smarter, more inclusive, and more responsive to the needs of our neighborhoods, businesses, and families while ensuring an equitable future for all.