Longtime Arcadia City Clerk Gene Glasco Retires

After 12 years of service to Arcadia as its elected City Clerk, Gene Glasco has retired. The April 16 City Council Meeting marked Gene's last day officially holding the position. At this meeting, elected officials, colleagues and family members gathered to celebrate Gene's accomplishments.

"It has been a distinct pleasure serving in my capacity as elected City Clerk for the City of Arcadia, and I encourage anyone to volunteer their time," said Gene Glasco. "If they can volunteer to serve the City, I promise it will be an enriching experience like the one I have experienced."

Gene's connection to the Arcadia community spans nearly 70 years. In addition to being the City Clerk, Gene also served as the Commissioner and Chairman of the Arcadia Senior Citizens' Commission, President of the Arcadia Historical Society, Vice President of the Arcadia Highlands Homeowners Association and Volunteer in Patrol with the Arcadia Police Department. Most notably, Gene was the driving force behind the creation of the Arcadia Vietnam War Monument. Unveiled in May 2016 at Arcadia County Park, this monument stands as a tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

"Gene's efforts over the years will always remain an integral part of his legacy," said Mayor Verlato. "We've been so fortunate to have a dedicated public servant for so long and the City Council extends its deepest gratitude for Gene's unwavering service to Arcadia."

Gene's dedication has earned him prestigious accolades. He was recognized as "Community Activist of the Year" by Congresswoman Judy Chu, and recipient of the "Make A Difference" award from California State Assemblymember Ed Chau, "Citizen of the Year" by the Arcadia Chamber of Commerce and bestowed with the "Military Service & Stewardship" award from the Monrovia Chamber of Commerce.

Those interested in learning more about Gene and his accomplishments can visit a special Veterans Exhibit at the Gilb Museum of Arcadia Heritage. The exhibit features his uniform from his time serving in the United States Navy, along with some of his medals and military memorabilia.

Due to the evolving nature of this role, the elected City Clerk position has become largely ceremonial over time. As a result of this change, in 2022, Arcadia voters approved an update to the City's Charter that eliminated the position of the elected City Clerk. With Gene's retirement, the City Manager will appoint a City Clerk to perform the powers and duties outlined in the Charter. Most of the traditional City Clerk duties are currently performed by professional staff in the City Manager's Office, ensuring uninterrupted service to the public.

Although the role of City Clerk is no longer an elected position, Arcadia residents are still encouraged to serve their community in other capacities.

For the November 2024 General Election, there are two council member seats available for those interested in serving Arcadia. These seats represent District 1 and District 4 and entail a four-year term. Arcadia utilizes a district-based election system in which the City is divided into five geographic areas, each with one City Council Member who resides in the district and is chosen by the electors residing in that district. The Nomination Period for City Council candidacy begins on July 15 and runs through August 9, 2024. Nomination papers for City Council candidacy can be obtained from the City Clerk's Office and must be returned on or before August 9, 2024.

For those interested in serving in an advisory capacity, the City Clerk's Office is currently accepting applications from residents who wish to serve on a City Board or Commission. Positions are available on every Board and Commission, and details can be viewed at ArcadiaCA.gov/Service. Citizen Service Resumes are being accepted in the City Clerk's Office through Thursday, May 16, 2024.