The San Gabriel Valley is ramping up its efforts to forge a united front and shift the focus of political power, and as LA County government readies to expand and elect a chief executive officer for the first time in 2028, the timing couldn’t be better.
That after Claremont Councilmember Ed Reece was sworn in as the new President of the San Gabriel Valley of Governments (SGVCOG) in Monrovia last night.
The SGVCOG represents 31 incorporated cities, unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County, and three municipal water districts, serving as a unified voice for the region to address the San Gabriel Valley’s complex challenges.
“As we prepare for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, we have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to invest and accelerate regional priorities that will stand the test of time when the Games are over,” said Reece in his inaugural remarks.
“From transportation and infrastructure, housing and homelessness, to economic development, our 31 cities and fellow members are ready to meet the moment and work together to enhance the quality of life for everyone in the San Gabriel Valley.”
Having previously served as First Vice President, Reece was elected by his colleagues to lead the 36-member agency and became the first openly LGBTQ+ President of the Governing Board.
Elected to the Claremont City Council in 2018, Reece brings decades of small business experience to the role and has also served on the boards of Foothill Gold Line Construction Authority, Foothill Transit, League of California Cities, and the Pomona Valley Transit Authority.
The newly elected SGVCOG leadership also includes City of Industry Mayor Cory Moss as First Vice President, Glendora Mayor Pro Tem Michael Allawos as Second Vice President, and Diamond Bar Councilmember Andrew Chou as Third Vice President.
The Governing Board officers will serve in their positions from July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026.
Outgoing SGVCOG President Tim Hepburn (2023-2025) offered praise and confidence in the new leadership.
“Over the last two years, it’s been both an honor and a privilege to lead the SGVCOG through our region’s post-pandemic recovery. I am so proud of the progress we’ve made together,” said Hepburn. “I offer my heartfelt congratulations to Ed Reece on this well-deserved promotion. His leadership, vision, and passion make him the right person to guide the SGVCOG forward. I look forward to seeing our impact grow under his leadership.”
