"With 18 dairies dotting an area of 1.76 square miles, the City of La Palma in 1955 looked nothing like it does today. In fact, the City of La Palma was first incorporated as Dairyland and remained so until the dairies relocated. The name was changed in later years to La Palma in reflection of Orange County's Spanish heritage.
Soon after the small farming community began its life, city planners decided that the city should benefit from a long term program for orderly development. The Civic Center and Central Park, now La Palma's premier gathering places, were among the first projects to be completed to better the community. The city's major redevelopment project, Centerpointe, added new commercial and light industrial uses in the early 1980's.
Since many of La Palma's residential structures were built nearly 30 years ago, the city's homes are currently undergoing extensive remodeling and real estate values in the area have been climbing as a result. In addition, a city-wide research survey conducted in late 1997 evidenced a clear desire by the residents that the city take measures to improve its streets and public places. The upcoming year will provide the most ambitious program of public improvements that residents have seen in 15 years.
Today, La Palma is a well balanced city which prides itself on a responsive municipal government and a strong sense of community. The city's small town character allows residents to live in quiet and friendly neighborhoods. With one of the lowest crime rates in Orange County, La Palma is a place where residents can rest easy and enjoy hometown living."
