The City of South El Monte, incorporated in July 30, 1958, is located in the heart of the San Gabriel Valley 7 miles east of downtown Los Angeles. Today, the City has a good blend of older and younger residents working with the same dedication and community spirit that this City was founded upon, and both the residents and business community are working together to make the community a better place to live and work.

The City of South El Monte, incorporated in 1958, has a Council-Manager form government. The City Council, as the elected legislative body, adopts laws,sets policies for the city. Implementation of policy and day to day management and operations of the city is delegated to a professional City Manager, who in turn reports to the City Council on all city business. Citizen representation in governmental affairs is also provided by two City Commissions, the Planning and Human Services Commissioners. Commissioners are appointed by the City Council.