Snapshot: City Council meeting, Los Angeles Wildfires, Measure P, and more

San Rafael City Council Meeting Highlights

On Tuesday January 21, the City of San Rafael will hold a City Council meeting at 6:00 PM at City Hall, 1400 Fifth Avenue.

Details:

Regular Meeting: Begins at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers.
City Manager and Councilmember Reports, including reports on meetings and conferences attended. This will also include an update from the San Rafael Fire Department regarding the Los Angeles wildfires and our local wildfire preparedness activities.
Consent Calendar: Approval of minutes from the December 16, 2024 meeting; approval of a memorial bench for Judge Richard H. Breiner; appointments to the ADA Access Advisory Committee and Planning Commission; authorization to engage Jacob Green & Associates for strategic planning services; authorization to contract with Miovision Technologies for a traffic camera perpetual services license.
Special Presentation: Marin/Sonoma Mosquito and Vector Control District
Other Agenda Item: Status update on the 2022 Canal Community Based Transportation Plan

Get Involved:

View the full agenda and watch the meeting online via Zoom or YouTube. Participate in person or submit public comments ahead of the meeting.

View the Agenda

🚒 San Rafael firefighters battle LA wildfires

Stronger together: The San Rafael Fire Department (SRFD) has deployed two fire engines and crews to combat the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles. Both crews are operating in extremely hazardous conditions, and the City is deeply grateful for their bravery, dedication, and service.

Services in San Rafael: Despite these deployments, SRFD remains fully staffed and operational to serve the residents of San Rafael. Additional personnel have stepped up to ensure our community continues to receive uninterrupted, high-quality emergency services.

Get prepared: Wildfires can happen at any time of year, and residents should ensure they are prepared:

Protect your home by maintaining defensible space.
Assemble a Go Bag in case you need to evacuate.

For more information on how to prepare, visit emergency.marincounty.gov and readymarin.org.

📚 Investing in the Future

In November 2024, San Rafael voters approved Measure P, which will fund a new library and community center at Albert Park.

Why it matters: This project represents a significant investment in San Rafael’s future, enhancing the city’s cultural and civic landscape. The new library and community center will be a vibrant community resource for San Rafael, providing a hub for cultural enrichment and social connection.

The big picture: As one of San Rafael’s largest capital projects in recent years, this multi-year project will be an important undertaking for the City. Community involvement will be key as we move forward into the next stages of development.

What’s next: Learn more about Measure P and sign up to receive updates on the City’s website.

Learn Measure P

🚦 TAM secures $2M for traffic improvements

The Transportation Authority of Marin (TAM) has secured $2 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Reconnecting Communities Program to help fund the US 101/I-580 Multimodal and Local Access Improvement Project.

Why it matters: This project will address long-standing transportation challenges and helps improve infrastructure within San Rafael. It will alleviate congestion and streamline travel between northbound US 101 and eastbound I-580 to the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge.

Project Goals:

Enhance local access: Improve connectivity between the Canal neighborhood and the rest of San Rafael.
Relieve congestion: Create a new highway connector for better traffic flow.
Prioritize safety: Establish shared-use pedestrian and bicycle paths to support active transportation.

What’s next: TAM is conducting rigorous community outreach to determine what types of improvements the community prefers. Stay tuned for updates as we work together to build a more connected San Rafael!

Learn More

🚗 Participate in East San Rafael Parking Plan

The City of San Rafael has partnered with Dixon Resources Unlimited to develop a tailored Residential Parking Program for the Canal and Bret Harte Neighborhoods, and your input is essential.

Why it matters: This program aims to address unique neighborhood challenges while ensuring citywide equity in parking solutions.

Meeting details:

January 28th, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
English, with Spanish interpretation available
Virtually on Zoom (Join here, Meeting ID: 819 0039 0140, Passcode: 111176}

During the meeting, Dixon will present proposed program details, answer questions, and launch a community survey to gather additional feedback.

Share your thoughts: Participate in shaping this important initiative by joining the meeting or emailing questions to Bernadette.Sullivan@cityofsanrafael.org.

🌟 Openings on San Rafael Boards and Commissions

San Rafael is seeking applicants for upcoming vacancies on its Boards, Commissions, and Committees.

Why it matters: Joining a Board, Commission, or Committee is your chance to shape San Rafael’s future. Share your voice, represent your community, and help guide local decisions.

Opportunities available:

Pickleweed Advisory Committee: Two regular voting members & one youth member (9th grade through 18 years).
- The Pickleweed Advisory Committee provides valuable input in representing and advocating for the Canal area resident’s needs and wishes for programs and services; and is a primary public networking resource between the Canal residents, representatives from governmental and non-profit agencies, and others.
Planning Commission: One seat for a licensed architect.
- The Planning Commission consists of citizen volunteers appointed by the City Council to make decisions or advise the Council on land use and property development issues. The Commission assures that new development is consistent with our long-range General Plan, State laws and other public policies that advance the interests of our community.
Voter Approved Tax Oversight Committee: Two regular voting members
- The Voter Approved Tax Oversight Committee’s purpose is to ensure that all revenues received from voter approved taxes are spent on uses outlined in a manner consistent with the language of the ballot measure that approved the tax.

Learn more and apply

Join the Marin County Sheriff Civilian Oversight Commission

The Civilian Oversight Commission is a vital bridge between our community and law enforcement. This independent group works to ensure transparency, accountability, and equity in the Sheriff’s Office by reviewing policies, practices, and concerns from community members. A $50 stipend is available per meeting for commissioners.

Who should apply: The County is seeking passionate Marin County residents who are at least 18 years old, and have a desire to contribute to public safety and justice.

How to apply:

Fill out the application form at tinyurl.com/CivilianOCApplication by February 16th.

Information sessions:

Online: January 15 and 30 on Zoom, 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM
In-person:
- Dance Palace in Point Reyes Station: January 24, 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM
- Marin City CSD: February 6, Time TBD

Get involved and help shape the future of public safety in Marin County.

Learn More

Join SMART’s Citizens Oversight Committee

SMART is seeking residents from Marin and Sonoma counties to apply for its Citizens Oversight Committee.

Why it matters: This advisory group ensures transparency and provides critical input on SMART’s strategic plans, budgets, and financial matters. Members play a key role in advising the SMART Board and reflecting community interests.

Who should apply:

Residents with diverse viewpoints from across Marin and Sonoma counties.
Individuals with experience in finance, transit, capital planning, or community advocacy.
Representatives from local businesses, transit advocates, environmental organizations, and minority communities.

Next steps: Submit applications by February 3, 2025. Visit the Citizens Oversight Committee webpage to review the bylaws and additional details.

Get Involved

🏆 2025 Public Service Award Nominations Now Open

2024 award - Tom Harrison with members of City Council

Nominations are open for the 2025 Public Service Award, recognizing community members who make San Rafael a great place to live and work.

Why it matters: This annual award highlights exceptional contributions to San Rafael, fostering community pride and engagement.

The recipient receives a $2,500 cash award from the Marin Community Foundation and recognition at a City Council meeting and the State of the City dinner.

This is an opportunity to honor those who dedicate themselves to enhancing our community. If you know someone deserving, submit your nomination by February 3, 2025. Don’t miss the chance to recognize a local hero!

Nominate Someone Today!

🛟 Lifeguard and CPR training in San Rafael

San Rafael is offering American Red Cross training courses to equip individuals with essential life-saving skills and certifications. Scholarships are available for both courses.

Why it matters: These courses provide critical skills necessary for effective emergency response, vital for ensuring community safety and preparedness. Perfect for a summer job (at the Terra Linda Pool!) or for anyone looking to make a difference.

Training opportunities:

Lifeguard Training: This comprehensive course includes water rescue techniques, CPR/AED training, and first aid, providing the confidence to handle emergencies.
- Register for Lifeguard Training
CPR/First Aid/AED Training: Learn to save lives with essential skills, including the use of an automated external defibrillator. This course is perfect for individuals, parents, and professionals who want to be prepared for emergencies. A session in Spanish is available on February 1 to ensure inclusivity.
- Register for CPR Training

Don’t miss this chance to gain valuable skills and make a positive impact in your community by preparing for emergencies. Enroll now and be ready to act when it matters most!

🎉📆 Exciting Upcoming Events

Join us for these upcoming events in San Rafael:

January 19: SF Art Week’s “Marin Art Day”. Location: Galleries and Museums across Marin, including Art Works Downtown.
January 24-February 24: Downtown San Rafael Lunar New Year Celebration and Scavenger Hunt. Location: Downtown San Rafael businesses.
February 1, 2, 15, and 16, 6:30 PM: Year of the Snake Lion Dance Performances. Location: Yet Wah, 1238 4th St.
February 8, 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM: Marin Chinese Cultural Association Chinese New Year Celebration and Banquet. Location: B Street Community Center, 618 B Street.
February 10, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM: Seeds of Hope Service Fair & Luncheon. Location: B Street Community Center, 618 B Street.
February 14, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM: 2nd Friday Art Walk. Location: Downtown San Rafael.
Every Sunday and Thursday, 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Agricultural Institute of Marin Farmers’ Market. Locations: Sundays at 2501 Civic Center Drive, Thursdays at 10 Avenue of the Flags.