This page lists information for media organizations and other public entities to use when informing their audiences about environmental issues pertaining to Paramount. For all press inquiries, please contact Communications and Engagement Manager Pauline Jauregui at (562) 220-2130 orPJauregui@paramountcity.gov.
Mission Statement
Paramount is a city of just under 53,000 residents that is characterized by a balanced combination of residential, industrial, and commercial developments. Once the hay and dairy capital of Southern California, the City, which incorporated in 1957, eventually turned into a blighted suburb. Launching a revitalization effort in the mid-1980s, Paramount eventually became known for its successful transformation into an attractive, innovative city with a good quality of life. Located at the gateway to the Los Angeles metropolitan area, Paramount is near four major freeways, Los Angeles International Airport, and the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach. The City has earned numerous State and federal awards for its inventive strategic planning, progressive public safety initiatives, and investment in capital improvements. It is also known as the home of the world-famous Zamboni ice resurfacing machine, which was invented by Frank Zamboni at the Iceland skating rink and is still manufactured in the city.
Today, Paramount is a community of landscaped boulevards, superior police services, parks, recreation programs, affordable housing, public art, and tree-lined neighborhoods with white picket fences. The City has traditionally been on very sound financial ground, conservatively managing its funds and investments to ensure important services for its residents are regularly available. This fiscal approach has consistently led to budget surpluses and recognition for superior financial reporting and management from State and federal organizations over the last 30 years. For more information, please visit www.paramountcity.gov.
Bio of Mayor Peggy Lemons
Peggy Lemons has deep roots in Paramount, having been born in the city, attending its schools, and purchasing a home there in 1976. Her dedication to Paramount’s well-being spans decades, as evidenced by her extensive involvement in various facets of community service.
For over 25 years, Lemons served as the Executive Director for the Paramount Chamber of Commerce, where she played a pivotal role in promoting economic development and fostering community partnerships. Additionally, as the founder and editor of the community newspaper the Paramount Pulse Beat, she provided a platform for business promotion and the sharing of positive community news.
Lemons’ commitment to public safety is evident through her past role on the Public Safety Commission, where she spearheaded initiatives such as the installation of speed humps to address neighborhood street racing and the implementation of a deputy services satisfaction survey. Her dedication to this cause earned her recognition as the Public Safety Person of the Year by the California State Legislature.
Throughout her tenure on the Paramount City Council since 1997, Lemons has been a catalyst for impactful programs. She initiated the Paramount Education Partnership (PEP), a collaborative effort between the City, School District, Chamber of Commerce, and faith-based community. Furthermore, her creation of the Pennies for PEP Scholarship Program inspired a grassroots community effort that has raised over a million dollars for student scholarships, greatly benefiting the youth of Paramount. Lemons also introduced the Boulevard of Scholars program, which honors student achievements by displaying their photos and educational affiliations on main thoroughfares.
In addition to her council duties, Lemons serves as the City’s representative for the Clean Power Alliance, the Southeast Area Animal Control Authority Board, the LA County City Selection Committee, the Paramount Historical Society, the County Sanitation Districts of LA County (Districts 1 & 2), the Tri-City Public Safety Joint Powers Authority, and is a member of the homeless ad hoc committee focused on addressing homelessness, community aesthetics, and landscape enhancement committees.
Peggy’s legacy of service and dedication continues to inspire positive change in Paramount. She is currently serving her seventh term as Mayor from 2025-2026.
Bio of City Manager John Moreno
John Moreno, Paramount’s City Manager since October of 2015, first began working for the City as a management analyst in 1993. Since that time he has served as Assistant Public Works Director, Assistant Public Safety Director, Public Safety Director, and Assistant City Manager.
He is an active member of International City/County Management Association (ICMA) and the California City Management Foundation (CCMF). He serves on the Gateway Cities Economic Development Working Group and was appointed to the California Sex Offender Management Board by Speaker of the Assembly Anthony Rendon.
Moreno has a Bachelor’s degree in history from UCLA and a Master’s in public administration from USC.
