City Council Update
In June, the City Council received an update on the Council's five strategic priorities. Every two years, the Council discusses what the City's greatest needs are and identifies the top priorities. Although it is not by any means an exhaustive list of work to be done, it helps guide staff and budget planning. You can read the priorities on our website.
Also in June, the Council introduced a zoning amendment to allow for up to two accessory dwelling units (ADUs) on religious property.
The City Council issued a proclamation declaring the month of June "Pride Month," and members of the Council and public joined joined for the raising of the Pride Flag outside of City Hall. The Council also recognized Gun Violence Awareness Day, Juneteenth, and the 50th anniversary of the bond measure passed that resulted in the City owning 3,000 acres of Open Space.
The City Council next meets on July 18 and July 23.
You are welcome to attend our meetings in person, or 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.
Hot weather and dry conditions: fire season is here
The heat is on this week with forecasts for Walnut Creek and the inland east bay area calling for a mini-heat wave. Contra Costa County Fire Protection District is asking residents to take precautions to prepare, including creating defensible space around your property and to be prepared to receive emergency alerts. In Walnut Creek, that includes our WCAlerts, as well as registering for the County's Community Warning System. You can find both on our emergency preparedness website.
High temperatures also can drive up energy costs. Marin Clean Energy's (MCE) Board has approved $5 million for the MCE Cares Credit program to offer relief for homes and businesses most burdened by energy costs. Find out if you qualify by visiting MCE's website and selecting the "Rebates & Offers" button.
Your input requested - share your ideas for improving transit in Contra Costa County
The Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA) is inviting residents from Walnut Creek and other parts of the County to complete a survey on transit use. Responses will inform the development of an integrated transit plan to make public transportation easier and more convenient to use. The goal is to have the plan enable better connections to regional services such as BART, improve transit reliability, and enhance the transit experience for riders. Find out more at the CCTA website, including a link to the survey, It will be open through July 15.
What's on deck at the Lesher Center for the Arts
This month, the Lesher Center hosts the return of two popular events. First up is the free Summer Sounds concert series July 11, 18, and 25 at 5:30 p.m. at Rudney Plaza. Running from July 16 - 20 will be Fiesta Cultural, a weeklong celebration of Latin American art and culture. Bedford Gallery will open its latest exhibition, Cut Past Create: The Art of Collage, on July 6. Learn more about these and other great summer events at the Lesher Center website.
Improvements to Boundary Oak Driving Range
Significant enhancements to the driving range at Boundary Oak Golf Course are currently underway. After approximately six months of renovations, the new driving range will feature state-of-the-art facilities designed to make your practice sessions more enjoyable and effective, including Top Tracer Ball Monitoring System and a new 7,000 square foot putting green.
Stay tuned for updates on the progress and reopening date. In the meantime, we encourage you to enjoy the Golf Course, Taphouse, and Clubhouse, which will all remain open for regular business. Visit the website or call 925-934-4775 to get details or book a tee time.
The temperature is rising - cool off at our City pools
Experience summer fun at Larkey Park pool and sprayground, or enjoy the pools at Clarke Swim Center in Heather Farm Park. The City offers swim lessons, classes, inflatable fun, and poolside picnic rentals for your ultimate celebration. Get connected with a swim team or sign up for a Summer Recreational Swim Pass. Plus, on Wednesdays this July enjoy half-off youth admission to Clarke Swim Center. Find out more at the Arts + Rec website.
New this Fall - Transitional Kindergarten enrichment afternoons
Offered at Center for Community Arts - Civic Park, this new program is for students who are eligible to attend Transitional Kindergarten (TK) programs with their school districts. Supplement your child's morning TK class with hands-on learning, play, and exploration. Find out more at the Center for Community Arts website.
Application period remains open for Youth Leadership Commission seats
The City of Walnut Creek is currently accepting applications for the Youth Leadership Commission. The Commission engages future leaders by encouraging youth to take an active role in our community and provide a youth perspective on issues to the City Council. Walnut Creek residents who are incoming 9th through 12th graders are welcome to apply online by 10:00 p.m. on August 18.
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