The Bellflower City Council meeting on September 8, 2025, featured discussions on the city's historical naming and updates on local recreational facilities.
During the meeting, a resident shared insights into the origins of the city's name, Bellflower. Initially known as Firth, the community sought a post office under the name Somerset in 1909. However, postal authorities rejected this name due to an existing Somerset in Colorado. This led to a naming controversy among local subdivisions, with various accounts of how the name Bellflower was ultimately chosen. The most popular explanation ties the name to Bellflower apples cultivated by pioneer William Gregory, translating to "beautiful flower" in French.
In addition to historical discussions, the council addressed operational details regarding the local swimming pool. A city representative explained the current pass system, which allows residents to purchase passes for lap and recreational swimming. The council is exploring enhancements to the recreational system, including more flexible pass options and improved access to facilities.
The meeting also included a review of the consent calendar, where council members discussed the procurement of vehicles for city use. A question arose regarding the selection of George Chevrolet over the lowest bidder, Fairfield Chevrolet, which was deemed nonresponsive due to not meeting specific vehicle criteria outlined in the request for proposals.
Overall, the meeting highlighted both the city's rich history and ongoing efforts to improve community recreational services. Further discussions and decisions are expected in future meetings as the council continues to address these important topics.