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Settlement Name
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Baldwin Park
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Has Policy?
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Yes
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Policy
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The City of Baldwin Park adopted Resolution No. 2024-043 in September 2024 to establish an updated policy governing the naming and renaming of city streets and municipal facilities. The policy was created to ensure consistent procedures and clear criteria for assigning names to public infrastructure while replacing an earlier policy adopted in 1979. The policy establishes a structured framework that defines the authority responsible for naming decisions, the criteria for selecting appropriate names, and the procedures that must be followed for approval.
Under this policy, the City Council holds the final authority over the naming and renaming of city streets and municipal facilities. Proposals for new street names may be submitted by developers, citizens, or city staff, but all proposed names must undergo review through established municipal procedures before being presented to the City Council for final approval. This ensures that naming decisions reflect municipal oversight and community considerations.
The policy also establishes conventions for different types of streets. For example, certain road types such as streets, avenues, lanes, courts, and boulevards correspond to particular orientations or physical characteristics. These naming conventions are intended to maintain consistency in the city’s street network and help residents and emergency services easily identify and navigate streets.
A key component of the policy is the set of criteria governing commemorative naming. Streets or facilities may be named after individuals, families, groups, or organizations that have made significant and lasting contributions to the City of Baldwin Park. Contributions may include service to the community, cultural or historical significance, economic development, environmental protection, recreational advancement, or long-term volunteerism. In assessing such proposals, the city evaluates whether the individual or organization has made meaningful contributions that have positively impacted the community.
The policy also introduces several restrictions intended to prevent conflicts or inappropriate naming practices. For example, facilities or streets cannot be named after currently serving elected or appointed officials until at least one year after their term has ended. Additionally, the same individual or organization cannot have multiple facilities or streets named after them, and street names must be unique to prevent confusion with existing names.
Another important provision addresses the stability of street names. The policy discourages renaming streets that already serve homes or businesses unless extraordinary circumstances justify the change and the City Council approves it by majority vote. This provision protects residents and businesses from the logistical challenges associated with address changes.
The policy also establishes procedures for commemorative signage and plaques. While commemorative street signs may recognize individuals or organizations who have contributed to the community, they do not replace the official street name used for addresses. Plaques may also be installed in public facilities or monuments to recognize contributions to the city.
Finally, the policy outlines the administrative process for reviewing naming proposals. Applications must include identifying information about the submitter and the proposed honoree. After review by city administrators and relevant commissions, recommendations are submitted to the City Council, which makes the final decision. Once approved, the naming process is implemented by city staff.
Overall, the Baldwin Park Street Naming Policy provides a formal governance framework for naming streets and municipal facilities. It ensures that naming decisions follow consistent rules, recognize meaningful contributions to the community, and maintain clarity and stability within the city’s addressing and navigation systems.
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Contact Info
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squinones@baldwinparkca.gov
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Policy Score
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38.89
