Upcoming City Council Meeting
On Monday the City of San Rafael will hold both a Special City Council meeting at 4:00 PM and a Regular City Council meeting at 6:00 PM at City Hall, 1400 Fifth Avenue.
Details:
- Special Meeting: Begins at 4:00 PM in the Third Floor Conference Room to conduct Board and Commission interviews.
- Closed Session: There will be a closed session immediately following the Special Meeting. The closed session will cover anticipated litigation and labor negotiations involving SEIU Local 1021.
- Regular Meeting: Follows at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers.
- Consent Calendar: Approval of minutes from previous meetings. proclamations and service agreements, including First Responders Counseling Services and EMS Billing. Office of Traffic Safety Grant and Emergency Medical Transportation Program discussions.
- Special Presentation: Proclamation supporting National Native American Indian Heritage Month.
- Other Agenda Items: Discussions on agreements with the County of Marin regarding homelessness funding.
- Public Hearings: Review of Marin Sanitary Service proposed 2025 rates and illegal dumping program and the Annual report on the BioMarin Development Agreement.
Get involved: View the full meeting agenda and watch online via Zoom or YouTube. Participate by phone or submit comments ahead of the meeting.
View the full meeting agenda and read staff reports.
🌍 Traffic Calming Boosts Pedestrian Safety
The Department of Public Works is piloting traffic calming measures at Spinnaker Point, enhancing pedestrian safety with new crosswalks and curb extensions.
Why it matters: These measures aim to reduce vehicle speeds and improve safety for cyclists and pedestrians in the Spinnaker/Baypoint neighborhoods.
What’s next: The Department of Public Works will continue to monitor the impact of these changes and gather community feedback for further improvements.
🌳 Community Input Shapes Park & Community Center Plans
The Terra Linda Park and Community Center Enhancement Plan team wrapped up its second round of community outreach, gathering valuable input from residents.
The big picture: With 200 survey responses and over 75 attendees at meetings and events, the feedback will guide the development of a preferred plan alternative.
What’s next: The project team will incorporate the feedback to develop a preferred alternative, set to be presented to the City Council in Spring 2025.
🚴♂ Libraries Launch Bike Lock Program
The groundbreaking for the Pickleweed Park Enhancement Project was held on September 27th, 2024.
Why it matters: This project fulfills years of community requests for all-weather turf fields, enhancing recreational opportunities for residents.
Learn more: For additional details on the Pickleweed Park Enhancement Project, click the button below.
🚦 “Eyes Up, Marin” Promotes Intersection Safety
The Eyes Up, Marin campaign urges drivers to be vigilant at intersections, looking out for pedestrians and cyclists.
Why it matters: Intersections are high-risk areas where severe injuries can occur when drivers turn left without noticing vulnerable road users.
The bottom line: Always keep your eyes up to prevent accidents and ensure everyone’s safety. The campaign is part of the Street Smarts Program and Safe Routes to Schools, funded by the Transportation Authority of Marin.
🚨 Disaster Preparedness Training Boosts Readiness
On October 11th, the City conducted a hands-on shelter management training at the Al Boro Community Center, collaborating with the County of Marin, American Red Cross, California Department of Social Services.
Why it matters: These trainings equip disaster service workers with essential skills for setting up and managing shelters during emergencies, ensuring readiness for real-world scenarios.
The big picture: Collaborating with local teams enhances our community’s preparedness and resilience.
What’s next: Continuous skill development through such trainings ensures staff readiness for future emergencies and strengthens community support systems.
Support Needed for National Guard Holiday Party
The California Army National Guard is seeking community assistance for their Holiday Party on December 8th, 2024, at the San Rafael Armory.
Why it matters: This event offers service members and their families a day of relaxation, celebrating their dedication and sacrifices.
Details: Contributions needed include non-monetary items like beverages, snacks, food trays, and gift items for about 50 attendees.
Get involved: Contact Gina Johnson at (562) 756-4417 or USArmy223rdicdetsfrg@gmail.com for more information.
Grand Opening: Alex’s Playground and Discovery Garden
All are invited to celebrate the grand opening of Alex’s Playground & Discovery Garden, honoring Alexander Reid Quanbeck at Niven Park on Saturday, November 2.
Why it matters: This free community event is a tribute to Alex, aiming to bring joy and inspire curiosity, adventure, and love in all visitors.
Event Highlights:
- Ribbon Cutting: Ceremony begins at 10:00 AM.
- Activities: Family-friendly music and children’s activities including Touch-a-Truck.
- Refreshments: Enjoy free snacks from Alex’s favorite local spots.
Get involved: Bring a blanket and the whole family for a morning full of fun and remembrance. Learn more at ci.larkspur.ca.us/937/Alexs-Playground-Discovery-Gardens.
Bellam Boulevard Workshop
The Transportation Authority of Marin (TAM) invites East San Rafael businesses and residents to a workshop on Bellam corridor improvements.
Why it matters: Your input is crucial for shaping the proposed changes to intersections, driveways, turning movements, and sidewalks and bikeways, ensuring they meet community needs.
Details:
- Date & Time: Thursday, November 14, from 5:30 – 7:30 PM
- Location: Marin Health & Wellness Connection Center, 3240 Kerner Blvd, San Rafael
- Spanish-speaking staff will be available to assist attendees.
Get involved: Join the conversation to share your thoughts on the project’s impact on your business and community. Reach out with any questions!
🎉 Exciting November Events in San Rafael
Join us for these upcoming events in San Rafael:
- November 2, 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM: 36th Annual Dia de los Muertos Celebration. Location: Al Boro Community Center: 50 Canal Street
- November 8, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM: 2nd Friday Art Walk
Location: Art Works Downtown, 1325–1337 Fourth Street, San Rafael - November 30, 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM: Downtown San Rafael’s
43rd Annual Holiday of Lights & Winter Wonderland/Shop Small Saturday Location: Fourth Street, Lincoln to A streets. (Tree Lighting City Plaza, 5:30 PM) - November 30 – January 6: The 3rd Annual Great Downtown San Rafael Elf Hunt
Location: 4th Street from Lincoln to H Street Downtown San Rafael