Press Release - Torrance Mayor Presents 2025 State of the City Address

Torrance Mayor George K. Chen delivered his fourth State of the City Address this afternoon at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel in Torrance, reflecting on the City's accomplishments and vision for the future under the theme "Nurturing Growth, Focused on the Future." For the first time, the address featured integrated videos, giving attendees the chance to hear and see Torrance's progress, from public safety advancements and business growth to international partnerships and community celebrations.

Mayor Chen highlighted the City's remarkable financial turnaround, with reserves growing from $581,000 in 2022 to more than $131.5 million today. This financial stability has safeguarded critical services, positioned Torrance as third in Los Angeles County for sales tax revenue and elevating its assessed property value to over $42 billion. With a diverse economic base, rising home values, and disciplined fiscal management, Torrance has built a foundation of confidence for residents, businesses, and investors alike.

Public safety, described by the Mayor as the cornerstone of community well-being, was another focal point. He shared the City's $4.7 million recruitment and retention program, the launch of the Real Time Response Center with live data integration and the expansion of the Drone as First Responders Program. The Torrance Fire Department also logged a record 16,000 incident response in 2024, expanded wildfire prevention measures, and added technology underscored the City's commitment to safety and preparedness. Chen also emphasized transparency, collaboration, and community engagement through events such as National Night Out and the recent Proposition 36 Community Forum held at City Hall.

Addressing homelessness, Mayor Chen reported that since opening the 3290 Temporary Housing Village, 42 individuals have transitioned to permanent housing. Expanding partnerships with organizations including Harbor Interfaith Services, Venice Family Clinic, and the Little Tokyo Service Center have strengthened outreach and culturally sensitive support.

Transportation and infrastructure also featured prominently in the Mayor's address. He also announced that the Connect Torrance micro transit program completed more than 15,500 rides since its launch this summer while Torrance Transit served more than 2.4 million passenger trips, a 30 percent increase from the previous year. Investments in sustainability are taking shape with new eco-friendly buses scheduled for service in 2026, the installation of more EV charging stations, and the long anticipated return of the Red Trolley by next fiscal year. The Mayor noted these improvements are part of the City's strategic preparation for international events including the FIFA World Cup in 2026, the Super Bowl in 2027, and the LA 28 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Mayor Chen also underscored technology and education as drivers of progress, while noting that economic growth and international relations capped a successful year. Torrance welcomed new retail, dining, and housing projects, strengthened its role in advanced manufacturing and clean fuel, and global innovation. The City hosted delegations from across the world, culminating in moments such as Torrance's appearance on the NASDAQ digital billboard in Time Square alongside corporate citizen Navitas Semiconductor in celebration of their 10th anniversary.

Addressing a sold-out audience of business leaders, community members, and international partner, Mayor Chen said, "Torrance is no longer just a city on the map, we are a hub for finance, safety, infrastructure, education, economic growth, and global engagement. Here, growth isn't just encouraged, it's strategically planned. Together, we will make the impossible possible and build a stronger Torrance for generations to come."

The full transcript of the speech, videos and the recording of the 2025 Mayor's State of the City Address can be found at TorranceCA.Gov/CityCouncil.

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