Hahn Honors Jerry Gaines for Legacy of Service to Los Angeles County

LOS ANGELES — Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn July 30 presented an official recognition to San Pedro resident, retired educator and veteran Jerry Gaines in honor of his 21 years of public service. Gaines recently retired from a seat on the Los Angeles County Commission for Older Adults and has previously served on other commissions for both the City and County of Los Angeles. 

“Jerry served his country in uniform and educated our youth, and then turned right around and decided he wasn’t done serving. Older adults in LA County are better off today because of Jerry’s service on this Commission, putting their needs front and center,” said Hahn. “He is an extraordinary public servant, friend, and neighbor, and it was an honor to recognize him today.” 

Gaines was first appointed to the Commission for Older Adults by Hahn’s predecessor, Supervisor Don Knabe, in 2015. Upon entering office in 2016, Hahn reappointed Gaines to the commission. Gaines was among the group of commissioners who championed the creation of a standalone Department of Aging and Disabilities in 2022. Gaines had also previously served on the Los Angeles City Charter Reform Commission, the Los Angeles City Redistricting Commission, and the Los Angeles City Harbor Planning Commission.

During the ceremony, Gaines thanked Hahn for the opportunity to serve on the Commission and recognized the staff and leadership of the Department of Aging and Disabilities. “I enjoy the time I got to work with them along the way. It was a special honor. Of all of the things you heard me do, this one has been top of them all,” said Gaines.

Prior to his volunteer service with the city and county, Gaines served in the U.S. Navy and retired from the Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District in the field of secondary education. During his time in education, he was recognized as the Los Angeles County Teacher of the Year and received the U.S. Congress Award for serving as chair of the Military Reuse Committee.

The Los Angeles County Commission for Older Adults is tasked with advocating and advising the Board of Supervisors and other county entities regarding the needs and welfare of Los Angeles County residents 60 and older. 

Details: Footage of the ceremony is available here.