The snow came to Paramount, as hundreds of kids and families enjoyed Santa’s Snowfest on December 14 at Paramount Park. The event was jam packed with fun activities, including sled runs, a snow play area, photo opportunities, a Santa’s craft village, and more.
Santa Train 2024
Over the course of four magical nights from Dec. 9 through 12, Santa and his merry team journeyed through the neighborhoods of Paramount aboard the Paramount Christmas Train, spreading holiday cheer. The train stopped at various locations each evening, where Santa and his team of elves take photos and personally hand out thousands of bags filled with apples and candy canes to children and families in the community. The Santa Train will return next year.
City launches Downtown Dazzle
The city kicked off a new tradition on Dec. 4 known as the Downtown Dazzle. The Downtown Dazzle was kicked off before the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. Before the ceremony began, community members gathered at the intersection of Paramount Boulevard and Jackson Street to witness the grand illumination of lights that are taking over the boulevard for the holiday season.
Paramount voters approve Measure LR business license tax
By Tripepi Smith
Editor’s Note:Tripepi Smith is a marketing, technology, and public affairs company that has contracts with many city governments.
The residents of Paramount have voted to approve Measure LR: Paramount City Services, Business License Tax Update Measure during the recent November 2024 general election. This measure will not raise taxes on residents but rather updates the current business license tax structure to create a balance of taxes between large and small businesses.
According to the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder’s website, Measure LR received 9,520 yes votes (or 77.07%) and 2,833 no votes (or 22.93%).
The updated tax rate structure, based on gross receipts, will take effect on Jan. 1, 2025. Under the new system, more than 75% of small businesses will pay a lower tax rate. Larger businesses will see an increase based on their higher gross receipts.
“We appreciate all businesses that have chosen Paramount as their home,” said City Manager John Moreno. “The passing of this measure will help small businesses thrive while also securing the necessary funding to maintain the quality of life our residents expect.”
Some of the essential city services that residents rely on daily include public safety resources, 911 response, gang prevention, and keeping parks and public places safe and clean. Currently, some of these services are funded by business license taxes that go directly into Paramount’s General Fund. Measure LR allows the city to continue refining its revenue collection to ensure fairness and sustainable funding for these critical services.
For a detailed breakdown of the new tax categories and rates, visit ParamountCityMeasureLR.com.
City unveils new sculpture honoring veterans
On Nov. 7, the city of Paramount unveiled its newest art piece “The Battlefield Cross and Solider,” designed by the National Sculptors Guild , installed at the Paramount Armed Forces Memorial. The life-sized kneeling soldier pays tribute at the foot of a fallen soldier’s cross.
A Soldier’s Cross is a powerful military symbol honoring fallen soldiers during wartime. Traditionally, it consists of a soldier’s rifle stuck into the ground, often with a helmet on top, signifying a soldier who has made the ultimate sacrifice. The statue serves as a solemn reminder of the bravery displayed by those who protect and serve. Check it out at City Hall this month in Honor of Veterans everywhere.
Community has ‘ghoul’ time on Halloween
The community had a blast at its annual Halloween Festival on October 31 that featured a lively costume contest, candy booths, crafts, inflatable jumpers, and a spooky haunted house for those looking for a thrill.
Mayor’s first Storytime
Mayor Annette C. Delgadillo hosted her first Storytime with the Mayor program at the Paramount Library on Oct. 16 with the book “Caps for Sale.” Every third Wednesday of the month, the Mayor Delgadillo will host a Storytime and crafting hour at the Library for children and their families. The next one will be on Wednesday, Nov. 20. Follow the city on social media to stay up to date on what programs Paramount has coming this month.
Student Mayor 2024
At the October 22 City Council meeting, Noah Rodriguez, a fifth-grade student from Jefferson Elementary School, was recognized as the Student Mayor for the Day. This program is a new partnership between the City and Paramount Unified School District. Every month, different schools in Paramount will nominate deserving fourth- or fifth-graders to be recognized as the Student Mayor for the Day. Noah was selected by Jefferson Elementary for his leadership skills and impressive commitment to his school and community.
Paramount Safety Expo
Paramount community members enjoyed a fun-filled day at the city’s Public Safety Expo on October 12. Neighbors got to meet their local law enforcement officers who work hard to keep Paramount safe while exploring safety and crime prevention resources in the city. Families took advantage of interactive displays, photo opportunities, raffle prizes, a kid’s zone, and self-defense classes. The city’s Public Safety team, thanks everyone for joining in the festivities.
