April Update from the Walnut Creek City Manager

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April 1, 2024

A message from the City Manager

The March primary election is over, but Walnut Creek ended up being one of the winners. People who used the secure drop boxes throughout Contra Costa County surpassed 85,000 voters. In Walnut Creek, nearly 5,000 people used the drop boxes outside of City Hall, a larger total than at any other location throughout the county. In addition, the Ygnacio Valley Library and Grace Presbyterian Church had drop boxes, with a combined total of more than 10,000 ballots being dropped off in the City. We appreciate being able to host secure locations for people to feel comfortable dropping off their ballots, and will do the same in November. Thank you for voting. Questions about this update or anything else? Email me at CMUpdates@walnut-creek.org

City Council Update

In March, the Council had a discussion and heard public feedback about the layout and design of the two new swimming pools that will be going into Heather Farm Park. More discussion is expected at the Council's April 16 meeting. The goal is to provide a state of the art aquatics facility that balances the needs of all community members.

Also in March, Police Chief Jamie Knox presented an update on public safety, with some reassuring statistics about crime rates coming down over the past five years. And our newly appointed Commissioners for various advisory bodies were given the Oath of Office. We appreciate the high level of interest in serving on behalf of the City.

At the upcoming April 2 meeting, the City Council will hold a public hearing on a proposed amendment to an ordinance pertaining to the reproductive health care facility on Oakland Boulevard. The amendment would restrict the use of sound amplification around the facility.

As always, you are welcome to attend in person, watch on Walnut Creek TV, YouTube Live, or video on demand through Roku, Amazon Firestick, and Apple TV. Find out more meeting details by visiting our public meetings and agendas webpage.

Future of Walnut Creek event hosted by the Chamber of Commerce

Mayor Haskew and I were pleased to participate in the Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce's "Future of Walnut Creek" event on March 26. We answered questions on topics ranging from economic development to affordable housing. Police Chief Jamie Knox also gave an update on public safety. The Chamber had representatives speaking about the future of downtown, the Shadelands district, and development in general. 

You can view the event on the City's YouTube channel.

Interested in building an ADU?  Walnut Creek simplifies the process

The City has created a simplified path for anyone wanting to put an accessory dwelling unit, or ADU, on their property. To make it easier, there are pre-reviewed plans that can save time and expedite the review process. ADU's have become an option to house family members or others on your property with a separate, detached building. If this is of interest to you, view the webpage and find out more.

Learn about the City'sTransportation Program

Walnut Creek Recreation's Transportation program serves seniors and adults with disabilities and health conditions. Appointments can be made to schedule rides to medical appointments, grocery stores, activities and more.  On Monday, April 8, we'll be holding a free session from 10:30 a.m. until noon to provide information on our policies, regulations, riders' expectations and more.

Plan to join a spring trip to see the Giants with our Recreation Department

April means opening day is here for baseball, and Arts + Rec is planning a 50+ adult day trip to Oracle Park on Wednesday, June 12. Participants will have luxury motorcoach transportation to the game, with reserved seating and more. Register by the end of the day today to get an early bird rate of $15 off. 

An Evening of Big Band and Vocal Jazz

Spend the evening on Thursday, April 18, attending a concert that will raise funds for the City's Arts + Rec scholarships. Join the Walnut Creek Jazz Band for entertainment that supports a great cause. The event will be held at the Lesher Center for the Arts. Find out more information and buy tickets online.

Tickets are selling fast for Dance Theatre of Harlem

With just two performance dates, April 20 and April 21, the world-renowned dance company brings an all-new show to the stage at the Lesher Center for the Arts. The program includes works set to the music of Aretha Franklin, Johann Sebastian Bach, Radiohead and James Brown. The Dance Theatre of Harlem was established in 1969, and always puts on unforgettable performances.

Closing April 7: The Great Leap presented by Center REP

There are just a few days left to see the critically acclaimed production "The Great Leap," the story from San Francisco playwright Lauren Yee exploring the cultural and political risks of raising your voice and standing your ground. It's worth making time to check out this thought-provoking show.

Save the Date: 2024 Art and Wine Festival

Mark your calendar for June 1 and 2 when the Art and Wine Festival returns to Heather Farm Park. Visit the Festival website for all of the details.