City Mourns Ken Genser www.smgov.net, January 9, 2010
There was a Ken Genser memorial service Sunday January 24, 2010 at 1:30 pm at Barnum Hall on the Santa Monica High School campus. Following, there will be a reception in the East Wing of the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium.
City Mourns Ken Genser www.smgov.net, January 9, 2010
Mayor Ken Genser passed away peacefully today with family and close friends by his side. The family appreciates everyone's thoughts and condolences as they go through this difficult time. Once memorial service arrangements are made details will be released.
"It is with deep sadness that we mourn the loss of our Mayor Ken Genser, an indefatigable champion for quality of life in Santa Monica. Ken distinguished himself with a fierce intellect, passion for progressive social policy and compassion for people. He served the Santa Monica community throughout his lifetime and will be greatly missed."-Santa Monica Mayor Pro Tempore Pam O'Connor and City Council.
Mayor Ken Genser served on the Santa Monica City Council for 21 years, since 1988. He was elected Mayor three times by Council in 1992, 2000 and 2008. Ken was Mayor Pro Tempore in 1991 and 1999. He led on issues ranging from affordable housing and tenant protection, land use and zoning policies to environmental quality, workers rights, parks, public safety and funding for the schools.
. . . Ken began his 30 year career serving the [Santa Monica] public through appointment to a City Task Force for Revision of the Housing Element and was Chair of the Goals and Policies subcommittee from 1980 to 1982. He was a founding member of Community Corporation of Santa Monica, serving from 1982 to 1988. He was appointed as a Planning Commissioner from 1983 to 1985. Ken served as a board member of the Santa Monica Pier Restoration Corporation from 1985 to 1988.
Mayor Genser entered the hospital on October 30, 2009, and due to multiple complications, he passed away on January 9. He was 59 years old.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Ocean Park Community Center:
http://www.opcc.net/GivingtoOPCC/DonateNow/tabid/209/Default.aspx