Sure, architecturally the structure itself pales in comparison to others, for example Pasadena City Hall. But let's look at what it does have.
* A functional website
* Plenty of free parking
I came by today to get a live scan (fingerprinting) and criminal background investigation (CBI) done here to submit to an employer. Called ahead of time to schedule an appointment with the human resources department (626-932-5500), which I was able to get for the same day. The fingerprinting was relatively straightforward, though the scanner had some glitches that resulted in having to re-input my information to the computer 3 times. All-in-all, the whole process took 30 minutes. Costs $52 total: $20 for the live scan, $32 for the CBI. I was told that the cost for the live scan would be increased if you needed to go through the FBI, rather than just the Department of Justice as I had to.
Right by the entrance, they have various flyers and papers. Curious as a cat, I like to rummage through stuff, and found they had free prescription discount cards, which may prove to be useful. We'll see the next time I get ill.
Years ago, I had to renew my passport, and came here to figure things out. Decided to just get my passport photos here as well for $15, which is a bit pricier than I would prefer, but it's done through a government office rather than a shady third-party business. They used an old Polaroid from what I can remember, which was rather neat. Not the most flattering photo, but whatever. http://www.ci.monrovia.ca.us/component/content/article/39-city-clerks-office/83-passports
I honestly don't know how to review a city hall. All I can really say is that I've yet to come across any problems here. Looking through the website, I saw links to yard sale permits, recycling programs, building requirements, and other useful tidbits. They are the city government, so I'll need to learn more about what services they provide for the locals. The city seems well-run, so maybe I'll give them the benefit of the doubt. read more