City Council Update
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As summer winds down and we transition into fall later this month, there are still plenty of activities and events in Walnut Creek. I am pleased to share that our Citizens Institute is returning this fall. Dates are being determined now, but if you are interested in applying, you can register for our notifications online.
There are also some notable changes that are taking place within the City operations.
I am pleased to welcome Charles Ching to the City as our new Assistant City Manager. Charles comes to Walnut Creek from the City of San Pablo, and is already a great fit for our team and the community. Congratulations, Charles.
And we are saying goodbye to Public Works Director Heather Ballenger, who is retiring after a 40 year career in public service, including the last 17 at Walnut Creek. Thank you to Heather for her service.
Questions about this update or anything else? Email me at CMUpdates@walnut-creek.org
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City Council Update
The City Council steps into a busy fall with two meetings in September. The first, today, September 3, will include several important proclamations, including one supporting "United Against Hate Week." Additional proclamations will be issued recognizing the success of the Diablo Valley Farmers Market and Service Dog Awareness Month.
City staff will present important updates on public safety and development services. The meeting begins at 6:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers.
On September 17, the Council will recognize Hispanic Heritage Month as well as National Preparedness Month.
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.
Election season underway
Three City Council seats will be on the ballot November 5, with five candidates running for office. Vote by mail ballots will arrive in homes in early October. The deadline to register to vote is October 21. Walnut Creek will host early voting in person, and will have two secure ballot drop boxes outside of City Hall.
Upcoming "Movies Under the Stars"
The City's "Movies Under the Stars" series at Civic Park continues with "Trolls Band Together" on September 20, and "Inside Out 2" on October 2. These events are fun and free, and are located near the Civic Park gazebo. Bring blankets, low chairs, food and drinks, and enjoy the evening.
What's happening at the Lesher Center for the Arts
September kicks off the fall arts season at the Lesher Center for the Arts with some powerhouse experiences—Grammy winner Chris Botti on September 6 and Oscar winner Rita Moreno on September 18. The classic comedy Arsenic & Old Lace debuts September 8 and runs through September 29. And works from Lichtenstein, Miró and Rauschenberg will be on view as part of Bedford Gallery’s new exhibition, Drawn to Abstraction opens on September 28.
Find out what else is coming to the Lesher Center for the Arts on their website.
Trunk or Treat - October 25
Walnut Creek Arts + Rec proudly presents its 5th annual Trunk or Treat event on October 25 from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. in Civic Park. The first hour will be geared toward our friends with sensory needs. Bring the whole family and stroll through the “trick-or-treat” lane, where you’ll encounter captivating booths brimming with activities, games, and plenty of candy. From bounce houses to face-painting, balloon twisters to food trucks, there’s something to delight everyone. This year, we will celebrate the Mexican holiday, Día de los Muertos, with activities and performances. This event is fun and free for the community to enjoy.
Registration for Fall Arts + Rec experiences underway
With offerings that range from painting, design, after school sports, dance, cooking, health, and more, there is something for everyone. Plus, check out the newest Intergenerational category that lists courses for multiple ages and families. Once registered, be sure to save the date for winter registration, which opens on November 20 at noon.
It's back...Fountain Head returns to North Main Street
The City of Walnut Creek’s commitment to public art rises head and shoulders above the rest. The public art and Bedford Gallery teams recently led a restoration project for Fountain Head, by Oakland artist Seyed Alavi. This unusual piece of art has been spreading joy and sparking conversations since 2012. Stop by Main and Duncan to experience this unique piece of public art as it shines brighter than ever.
Seyed Alavi, Fountain Head, 2012, fiberglass.
Oktoberfest returns: September 27 and 28
Usher in the fall season with Oktoberfest, a two-day event from Walnut Creek Downtown featuring music and other live entertainment, dancing, arts and crafts, and a biergarten with dozens of craft beers and wine. It's a family friendly event with a kids zone, and dogs on leashes are welcome as well. Learn more at Walnut Creek Downtown's website.
Electrification fair: September 14
The City of Walnut Creek's Sustainability Team is working with 350 Contra Costa by sponsoring that organization's "Electrification Fair." It will be held at Calicraft Brewery with an eye towards sharing how switching from gas power to electric is healthier for both indoor and outdoor air quality, and saves on energy costs. Learn more and reserve a spot at the free event online.
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