Mayor Eric Perrodin
By Keisha Robinson
Special to Sentinel
Last week I had the opportunity to speak with City of Compton Mayor, Eric Perrodin after leaving court performing his duties as a Deputy District Attorney, for Los Angeles County. I wanted to understand the meaning behind the phrase he coins, “Birthing A New Compton”. I also wanted to discuss his life growing up, and community building.
Perrodin says, “I feel blessed” as he describes growing up with both parents in the home. “Most kids did not have both parents, my dad was a janitor and my mom worked as a crossing guard and a cafeteria worker.” His parents made sacrifices so that he could attend a Catholic school and from that experience his message is, “you can make it no matter what.”
The City of Compton is definitely the model for community building, based on the recent building under Perrodin’s watch. When asked about some of the recreational opportunities available for the youth, Perrodin was excited to announce the, “New Tennis Court, a Skate Park designed by Tony Hawk, and the Tomorrow Aeronautical Museum”.
In addition to creating more opportunities for the youth, Perrodin wants to, “raise Compton consciousness”, “be proud of your city”, in which he has helped to create a sense of pride for the residents by creating opportunities for residents to shop, go to restaurants, and recreational activities centers. He adds, “Friday’s is the 2nd highest grossing in Southern California”, referring to the new TGIF Friday’s Restaurant located in the City of Compton.
When asked what are the most important issues facing the City of Compton, Perrodin replied, “Public Safety, that the people, parents, and schools are safe.”
In efforts to enhance public safety, he wants the City of Compton to have their own Police Department in house, instead of the current Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.
Although the issue raised created controversy, it would actually benefit the City of Compton to have the department in house because it would reduce costs. “First we did a study”, Perrodin explained. Based on a study of the Citrus Heights model, it is not only safer, but it would save money for the city to have the department in house.
Perrodin, interested in community building said, “I am happy about Gateway Plaza. It helped Compton, how people felt; it instilled a since of belonging and self worth. I’m proud we can circulate our dollars and build our community.”
The mega shopping center features Best Buy, Target, Home Depot, and 24 Hour Fitness just to name a few; has created over 3000 jobs.
With Perrodin’s previous experience as Police Officer, and his current position as Deputy District Attorney, and Mayor, he is better equipped to handle the needs of the community because he is from the community therefore he understands the community and its needs. Perrodin, who says, “I like helping people”, is committed to community excellence and whether acting as Deputy District Attorney or Mayor, he is a man of integrity.
