Sister City Program

Poncitlan Square

The Sister City Program was initiated by President Eisenhower in 1956. It was developed to build one-on-one community relations with cities in other countries so that people could cross national boundaries, get to know each other personally, and form mutual respect and understanding of other cultures.

Sister City Founders

  • Dr. Robert St. Clair
  • Tom Freeman
  • Jay Lewis
  • Chuck Medicus
  • Ed Minghelli
  • Jim Vose

Palmdale’s Sister City, Poncitlán

After a visit to Jalisco, Mexico in 1973, the City of Palmdale chose the City of Poncitlán as its sister city because the two cities shared rural similarities and populations at that time. At the direction of then-Mayor Dr. Robert St. Clair, Palmdale joined the U.S./Mexico Sister City Program, making the relationship official in 1974. Today, City officials and Sister City members continue to exchange visits to each city to foster the relationship.

Poncitlán’s Founders

  • Mayor Dr. Pablo Malanando
  • Miguel Montes
  • Dr. Vargas

About Poncitlán

The City of Poncitlán is located in Jalisco, Mexico approximately 35 miles south of the Guadalajara metropolitan area. In 2010, its population was 48,408. The city has a proud heritage and is known for its mariachi music, tequila production from the blue agave plant, and beautiful Lake Chapala.

Palmdale Sister City Membership

To become a member of the Palmdale Sister City, applicants must at least 18 years old, attend meetings, pay membership dues, and abide by the Palmdale Sister City’s mission and by-laws.

For More Information

For more information about membership, email Palmdale Sister City or attend a member meeting. Member meetings are held on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month at the Chimbole Cultural Center at 6 p.m.

Mission

To promote cultural exchange program between the City of Palmdale and City of Poncitlán thorough friendship, fundraising, and membership.