Murrieta Fix It App Harnessing the power of GPS to solve community problems
PAGE 6
Household organics recycling diverts food waste from landfills
PAGE 5
Summer/ Spring Recreation Guide
PAGES 16-17
Summer Events
PAGES 12-13
Welcome to the first edition of the new Murrieta Magazine! We are very excited to bring you this beautiful and helpful publication that has been long in the making! The City of Murrieta prioritizes open, engaging, and convenient communication for our citizens, and this magazine is the latest way we can share about some of the many programs, services, and events happening in your community.
Like you, we are proud of our full-service city, offering our own police and fire services, library, and parks and recreation, among a multitude of other amenities. But we are not stopping at the status quo. On these pages, you will see that Murrieta is always evolving and advancing to provide the best service possible for our residents, businesses, and visitors.
This is an exciting time for Murrieta. I hope that after you read about the programs and events taking place, you will find a way to connect with us. Join us at an upcoming event, visit a local business, follow us on social media, or report an issue on our easy-to-use Murrieta Fix It app. We are always here for you because, after all, we are connected by community.
CITY COUNCIL 2023
MAYOR
MAYOR PRO TEMPORE
COUNCIL MEMBERS:
Lisa DeForest
Lori Stone
Jon Levell
Ron Holliday
Cindy Warren
Summers
Crane Ivan Holler Tiffany Israel
IMPORTANT CONTACT INFORMATION
CITY HALL CITY CLERK
CITY MANAGER’S OFFICE RECREATION
LIBRARY
POLICE SERVICES OFFICE POLICE SERVICES (NON-EMERGENCY)
PUBLIC WORKS
FIRE SERVICES (NON-EMERGENCY)
951-304-CITY (2489)
951-461-6031
951-461-6010
951-304 PARK (7275)
951-461 BOOK (2665)
951-304-2677
951-696-3615
951-304-2489
951-304-FIRE (3473)
The City of Murrieta is divided into five districts, each represented by an elected City Council Member. The role of mayor is ceremonial and leads the City Council meetings but has equal voting power. This role is rotated annually. The City Council establishes the legislative and policy-making functions of the City and provides direction for the administration of policy decisions through the city manager for delegation to City staff.
CITY STREETS
COUNCIL DISTRICTS
DISTRICT 1
DISTRICT 2
DISTRICT 3
DISTRICT 4
DISTRICT 5
One of the many ways to be involved in your community is by attending a City Council Meeting.
There are multiple options to do so:
• In person at the City Council Chamber (1 Town Square, Murrieta)
• Meetings are livestreamed and can be viewed after the fact on the City’s website (www.MurrietaCA.gov); YouTube (youtube.com/ch/ cityofmurrieta); and Facebook (facebook.com/cityofmurrieta)
For more information, please contact City Clerk Cristal McDonald at 951-461-6030 or CMcDonald@MurrietaCA.gov.
The city clerk has one of the most forward-facing roles in the City of Murrieta and is the official secretary of the City Council.
The municipal clerk (city clerk) and the tax collector are the earliest public servants. The Office of Municipal Clerk can be traced back to the year 1272 A.D. in the history of the Corporation of Old London. The early keepers of the archives were often called remembrancers, and before writing came into use, their memory was the public record.
Over decades the role of the city clerk has evolved into an impartial local official that serves constituents, legislative bodies, joint-governmental agencies, the city attorney, and all city departments.
The City’s new organics recycling program allows residents to recycle all organic materials into their green waste bin. From your green waste bin, organics make their way to Waste Management, where leftover food and yard trimmings are turned into materials that positively impact the environment. This program aims to divert organic waste such as food scraps, yard trimmings, and other compostable materials from landfills and create high-quality compost and soil amendment products, improving soil’s ability to retain and absorb water. The City’s new organics recycling program is required by the State to comply with California Assembly Bill 1383.
The City of Murrieta is proud to be the recipient of three distinguished awards that highlight the priority Murrieta City Council and staff place on transparent and accurate financial reporting. The Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) awarded both the Distinguished Budget Award for the Fiscal Year (FY) 2021/22 and FY 2022/23 Biennial Operating Budget and Excellence in Financial Reporting for the FY 2021/22 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report. In addition, the California Society of Municipal Finance Officers awarded the City their Capital Budget Excellence Award for the Capital Improvement Plan & Budget for FY 2022/23.
These awards recognize the Murrieta Finance Department’s effective efforts to clearly communicate its financial story and motivate constituents and user groups to read their financial reports.
This year, the City of Murrieta adopted its biennial (two-year) budget for Fiscal Years 2023/24 and 2024/25. In June 2023, City Council formally adopted the budget as a spending plan for essential City services, including public safety, public works, community development, library, parks and recreation, economic development, animal control, street maintenance, and more.
The overall Operating Expenditure Budget is more than $170 million for Fiscal Year 2023/24 and more than $180 million for Fiscal Year 2024/25. This biennial budget is the largest in City history and is proposed to increase the operating reserve balance to 30% of budgeted expenditures in all departments.
As presented, the budget reflects the City Council’s stated priorities: enhance current levels of services and programs, increase staffing levels, and maintain fiscal stability.
LEARN MORE ABOUT MURRIETA’S BUDGET HERE BY SCANNING THE QR CODE
Have you downloaded the Murrieta Fix It app? Connecting with the City of Murrieta has never been more convenient. This free, easy-to-use tool makes reporting local issues like potholes, graffiti or damaged trees, playground equipment, street signs and sidewalks easy. Simply open the app and submit a service request.
You will be able to see the City’s response using GPS to provide a precise location for staff so that they can begin fixing the problem quickly. You can also include a photo with your report.
• Graffiti
• Potholes
• Malfunctioning street lights
• Abandoned vehicles
• Damaged trees, playground equipment, signs, sidewalks
Once corrected the app will notify you. Please note that some items may require more time than others.
To learn more about the Murrieta Fix It app and to report an issue online and download the program on a mobile device, visit www.MurrietaCA.gov/FixIt.
Providing a high level of customer service to the community is a top priority for the City of Murrieta. The recently launched Customer Self-service (CSS) portal allows the public to interact with the EnerGov permit tracking and land management system. Users can look up permit details, pay fees, and schedule building inspections through CSS. The systems also allows licensed contractors to apply for specific construction permits on-line.
This new software will mean 24/7 accessibility and no trips to City Hall required, saving gas, time, and money.
Learn more at MurrietaCA.gov/PermitCenter
FIND YOUR FUTURE CAREER WITH THE CITY OF MURRIETA
Are you tired of your commute, looking to advance your career, and love Murrieta? Then, why not work for the City of Murrieta? The City is consistently ranked one of the best places to work in the region and has a strong organizational culture and dedicated workforce and we need talented people to join our team in a variety of areas.
What are you waiting for? Visit MurrietaCA.gov/Jobs to learn more about current openings. Make sure to check back often, as new positions are listed frequently.
With a population of nearly 120,000, Murrieta remains one of the safest cities in the United States. The City’s boundaries cover approximately 35.4 square miles and are divided into six beats (primary response areas for police officers). Having a City-run department enhances response times, encourages cohesion and increases Murrieta Police Department support from leadership.
As Murrieta continues to grow, the Department is dedicated to utilizing the most up-to-date technology to provide citizens with the highest quality police service. Here are a few recent investments:
• FLOCK Cameras
• Carbyne emergency texting
• Text to 911
• PSEC Regional Communications System
• Emergency Medical Dispatching
To learn more, visit the Murrieta Police Department website at www.MurrietaPolice.org.
• Murrieta Police Department Patrol Division is staffed with officers who respond to various calls for service.
• The Detective Bureau is home to detectives who handle sex crimes, property crimes, robberies, homicides and more.
• The Property & Evidence Unit stores and maintains lost or found property and handles evidence for criminal investigations.
• The Records Bureau stores and maintains various police reports in a paperless environment.
• The Explorer Program is open to young men and women, 14-21 years old, who are interested in law enforcement.
• Community Service Officers (CSOs) perform limited enforcement duties within the city and investigate older crimes.
• The volunteers assist the public at the front counter, assist with clerical duties and conduct patrols within the city.
• Training Division schedules and administers the most up-to-date training to enhance officers’ knowledge and tactics.
• Cadets assist staff members with various tasks throughout the station, and continue to earn college credits during employment.
Murrieta PD’s 12-week Citizens Police Academy is designed to increase public awareness and understanding of the Police Department’s operations. All Murrieta residents over the age of 21, who are in good physical condition to sit in a classroom setting, participate in simulation exercises, and reenact tactical scenarios, are encouraged to apply.
To sign up for a future academy, visit MurrietaCA.gov/CitizensPoliceAcademy.
• Total 911 Calls in 2022: 65,456
• 55,974 or 90.47% of 911 calls answered in less than 10 seconds
• 8,141
LOSS/SAVE SUMMARY
The Murrieta Emergency Communications Center provides the highest quality service to the communities of Murrieta and Menifee. The center serves more than 200,000 residents and is a critical link between the community and first responders in the field. Murrieta Fire & Rescue is an all-hazard, all-risk agency. Our personnel are trained to mitigate any emergency, no matter the size. We pride ourselves on being customer service-oriented, compassionate and treating our patients like good neighbors.
Winter rains brought a much-needed source of water to our City, but for our Fire Department, it poses a future risk. The beautiful green hillsides and blooms will turn dry in the warm summer months creating fuel for wildfires. Murrieta Fire & Rescue needs help from residents to clear their properties of dry vegetation to prevent the spread of wildfires and reduce the risk of fires at their homes or business. Detailed information on property clearing can be found on the City’s website MurrietaCA.gov/DefensibleSpace.
The City loves highlighting Murrieta businesses. Check out these local favorites. Want to be featured? Reach out to James Wurtz at jwurtz@murrietaca.gov.
THE MIC
• Serves the entrepreneurial and startup community in the region
• Focused on attracting and incubating new biotech industries and life science startups to the city
• Creates an ecosystem for entrepreneurship
• Housed in the former Murrieta City Hall at 26442 Beckman Court
The MIC has nine biotech startups operating out of the center. In the future, Murrieta could absorb approximately 182,000 square feet of biotech space with the need for an additional 400,000 square feet over the next 10 years. The City’s Economic Development Department is working diligently to attract this type of development, generating revenues that benefit Murrieta.
Six major medical centers within a 10-mile radius, including Kaiser Permanente, Loma Linda University Medical Center and Southwest Healthcare Systems. These medical centers are easily accessible to top talent from the Los Angeles, Orange County & San Diego markets.
Opportunity to connect with investors through events: “Night of Innovation,” Riverside County Innovation Month, and Silicon Valley Connection Trip.
Amenities include flexible office and conference space, in-house management and partnerships with industry associations.
The U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Agency recognized the MIC with a $2.4 million grant for renovating and remodeling the 13,000-square-foot building. Construction is tentatively scheduled to be completed in early 2025.
Daily Nutrition is home to friendly staff who will point you toward the best-tasting drinks, which are low sugar, low calories and high in nutrition. Enjoy their selection of over 80 great-tasting clean energy drinks and 50+ shakes and smoothies. In addition, they have built a happy and healthy community with a social media following that will bring you along for the journey.
40685 California Oaks Road, Murrieta, CA 92562
Sharon’s Creole Kitchen features several traditional Creole food dishes and other well-known Southern cuisine favorites. They have everything you need in Southern classics from meals that warm the heart to delicious desserts. Sharon’s is a family favorite and cultural classic for the Murrieta Community.
24530 Village Walk Place, Murrieta, CA 92562
Aerostat Creamery is a great-looking shop that gives customers a traditional ice cream parlor experience. All their ice cream is made in-house, with local dairy products and real fruit and ingredients. They have other sweet desserts and some dairy-free options as well. It’s a delicious option during our warm summer months and a perfect treat for your family.
28210 Clinton Keith Rd Suite 500, Murrieta, CA 92563
Since June of 2022, Murrieta Money Match has been in full effect and giving back to our community. This online gift card program supports Murrieta businesses while simultaneously putting extra purchasing power in the hands of residents and visitors.
• Anyone can purchase at Yiftee.com through Murrieta’s online portal
• Purchase a $50 gift card, and receive an extra $50 gift card for free
• Murrieta matches 100% of your investment
• Your purchase supports local businesses
The City covers all processing fees, so there are no hidden charges. You buy $50 and you get another $50 free, simple as that. The goal is to incentivize people to try new businesses and enjoy what Murrieta offers, which supports local business owners.
Owner and chef Melissa, a New York Times featured owner, curates some of the best Thai food you’ll find anywhere and serves in portions large enough for two. Goi Express has a great food selection and is a delightful spot for foodies and people intrigued by new cultures.
25060 Hancock Avenue #107, Murrieta, CA 92562
NEARLY $1 MILLION HAS BEEN SPENT LOCALLY, SUPPORTING OUR COMMUNITY.
Wingz & Mi specializes in bringing delicious Asian flavors to American classic foods. If you want to up your food game, they have a variety of teas and juices for you to try. Wingz & Mi is a family operated restaurant with an incredible atmosphere. It is an excellent option for your meal and the Banh Mi is a total hit.
25395 Madison Avenue #111, Murrieta, CA 92562
OVER $850,000 REDEEMED ACROSS PARTICIPATING BUSINESSES.
MURRIETA’S 32 ND BIRTHDAY BASH
2 - 9 p.m.
7
-
Dueling Pianos
FEAR OF PHOBIAS
80’s
TOGA PARTY Party Favorites
STAIRWAY TO ZEPPELIN
Tribute to Led Zeppelin
HEARTACHE TONIGHT Tribute to The Eagles
Thank you to our Concerts in the Park sponsors:
Gardening enthusiasts in Murrieta have a new and improved resource available to them at the Murrieta Public Library: the Seed Library. The library has recently undergone renovations to enhance the seed library funded by a grant from the California State Library and in part by the Rancho California Water District, providing an even better resource for those interested in sustainable gardening practices.
The seed library program is a unique concept that has gained popularity across the country. The program allows library card holders to borrow seeds for their gardens for free. The library encourages participants to grow the plants, harvest the seeds, and, if they are able, return some of the seeds to the library to replenish the collection. This process helps to promote biodiversity, preserve heirloom plant varieties, and ensures that the seed library remains a sustainable resource for the community.
The new and improved seed library program also offers a range of educational resources to help gardeners get started and learn more about sustainable gardening practices. The library has expanded its collection of gardening books, magazines, and online databases, providing even more resources for those interested in gardening.
Be on the lookout for gardening events and workshops brought to you by the Murrieta Public Library! MURRIETA
Monday through Thursday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Friday and Saturday 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Sunday Closed
More exciting news for gardening enthusiasts in Murrieta! The Murrieta Public Library is installing a new pollinator garden that promises to attract a range of beneficial insects and provide a beautiful space for the community to enjoy. This project is funded in part by a grant from the California State Library and by the Western Municipal Water District.
The new pollinator garden will feature a variety of native plants that are specifically chosen to attract pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. These plants not only provide food and habitat for pollinators but also add color and beauty to the garden.
The installation of the pollinator garden is part of the library’s commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The library aims to create a space that not only benefits the community but also supports the local ecosystem. The new garden should be completed by the end of July.
MONDAYS | 4:30 p.m.
Children ages 3 to 12
HULA HOOPING
FRIDAY, JUNE 30 | 7 p.m.
Town Square Park
Bring your own chairs and blankets. Feel free to bring a Hula Hoop.
JUNE 5 TO JULY 29
All Ages Prizes Each Week
Sign up online at bit.ly/mplsrc23 and pledge to read books this summer, then visit the Library to pick up your passport to read.
THURSDAY, JUNE 15 | 3 p.m.
Kids ages 8 to 12 can take part in a special creative writing workshop with local author Tamika Burgess. Limited space!
3D PARROT KIT
MONDAY, JULY 3
Children ages 3 to 12
FRIDAY, JULY 14 | 7 p.m.
Town Square Park
Bring your own chairs and blankets.
MONDAY, JUNE 19
Children ages 3 to 12
FAMILY DATE NIGHTS
GAME NIGHT
FRIDAY, JULY 7 | 6 p.m.
Video, board, and garden games where there is something for everyone.
FAMILY LEGO DERBY RACE
FRIDAY, JULY 21 | 5 p.m.
Will your family build the fastest car on the track? Prizes for the last race!
MAGIC SHOW
FRIDAY, JULY 28 | 7 p.m.
Carol Carson Garden of Verses
Bring your own chairs and blankets.
HORSE CAMP
Monday – Friday
Junior 5-9 year olds
Senior 10-18 year olds
IF I WERE A PRINCESS
Monday – Friday 4-8 year olds
EXPLORE ARCHERY
Monday – Friday 7-14 year olds
LEARN FENCING
Monday – Friday 7-14 year olds
MY LIL’ CAFÉ
Monday – Thursday 7-13 year olds
MY LIL’ BAKERY
Monday – Thursday 7-13 year olds
LET’S BAKE
Monday – Thursday 7-13 year olds
ADVENTURES IN STEM USING LEGO®
Monday – Friday 5-8 year olds
MINECRAFT ENGINEERING
USING LEGO®
Monday – Friday 5-8 year olds
MINECRAFT MASTER ENGINEERING USING
LEGO®
Monday – Friday 7-12 year olds
POKEMON ENGINEERING
USING LEGO®
Monday – Friday 5-8 year olds
BASKETBALL
Monday – Friday 7-14 year olds
FLAG FOOTBALL
Monday – Friday 7-14 year olds
SOCCER
Monday – Friday 7-14 year olds
TENNIS
Monday – Friday 7-14 year olds
TRACK AND FIELD
Monday – Friday 7-14 year olds
POKEMON MASTERS ENGINEERING USING
LEGO®
Monday – Friday 7-12 year olds
BASH ‘EM BOTS USING
LEGO®
Monday – Friday 5-8 year olds
MANDALORIAN TRAINING USING
LEGO®
Monday – Friday 7-12 year olds
SOCCER
Monday – Friday 2-5 year olds
6-14 year olds
Classes are subject to change without notice. For class information or to register visit www.MurrietaCA.gov/classes.
Monday – Friday | 9 a.m. – 12 noon
1st Session · June 19 - 29
2nd Session · July 3 - 14
3rd Session · July 17 - 28
Monday – Friday | 1 – 4 p.m.
Weekly camps starting June 19 – July 28
Camps are subject to change without notice. For class information or to register, visit www.MurrietaCA.gov/classes
Are you looking for a low-impact whole-body workout? Try lap swimming! Lap swimming is a great way to awaken your mind and body. It offers a way to work multiple body parts in one simple, low-impact exercise. Lap swimming is offered to participants 16 years and older or to children who are swim team members (must show current registration). Times and days vary; check the Aquatics page at www.MurrietaCA.gov/aquatics for more information on lap swimming times.
Want to get in shape without breaking a sweat? Hop in the pool! Using the resistance of water, the benefits include cardiovascular endurance, muscle toning, and flexibility. Water Exercise is refreshing and rewarding for all fitness levels and you don’t need to know how to swim. Come see what all the talk is about and get fit this summer. One of our water exercise instructors leads the class every Wednesday and Friday morning from 9 to 9:15 a.m. Classes begin in May for the upcoming summer season. Class costs are $3 per class for residents or $5 per class for non-residents. Visit the website or Cal Oaks Sports Park pool for more pricing information. Dates are subject to change.
Come cool off this summer at the California Oaks Sports Park pool. Public Swim is available for individuals wanting to enjoy a relaxed swim and families wanting to enjoy time in the pool. This class is for those who may not have been swimming in a while and want to get back into it in a fun, relaxed, and safe environment.
No one under 14 will be allowed in the pool area without an adult/ guardian (18 or over) and children must be accompanied by an adult/ guardian at all times, whether on the pool deck or in the water.
Please note that daily entry for large parties or summer camps is by reservation only.
Public swim costs are $1 for residents (1-13 years old) and $2 for residents (14 years and up).
The Youth Center was the first of its kind for Southwest Riverside County. It focuses on serving as a positive alternate space for the youth of Murrieta. It is a place to socialize, educate, and develop productive community members. This focus is achieved primarily through peer-to-peer mentoring, responsible empowerment, educational programming, and strong, positive supervision.
NORTH SIDE
Staff offices, a kitchen (equipped with snow-cone and popcorn machines), bathrooms, and a conference room with a modular table able to accommodate one-on-one schoolwork help as well as Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) meetings.
The Youth Center’s outdoor space hosts pickup basketball games, football games, special events, coffee shop style tables and chairs, and a Play world Systems NEOS (an outdoor multiplayer electronic game that promotes active play).
SOUTH SIDE
A one thousand square foot lounge equipped with a 65” flat screen TV, PS5, a ping pong table, a billiard table, internet streaming music, lounge chairs, couches and belly-high tables. This room’s focus is for the youth to make it their own, so much so that they can even write on the walls! The lounge is designed to be a place to relax, unwind, and enjoy as their space.
A six hundred square foot top-of-the-line computer lab. The computer lab is equipped with the latest touchscreen PCs and iMacs, with eight total computer stations and Wi-Fi throughout the building, there is plenty of connectivity for the tech-savvy youth.
A one thousand square foot multipurpose room used for educational programming, movie screenings, youth summits, and guest speakers.
The Murrieta Youth Center hosts numerous programs and activities throughout the year. The programs are organized by the youth center’s staff with the sole purpose of providing positive interactions between youth center members. These clubs range from backyard sports, Dungeons and Dragons, art, music, and field trips. Be sure to come into the youth center to pick up the monthly event calendar to see first-hand all that the Youth Center has to offer.
Murrieta Youth Center memberships are available for 6th-9th grade students only. Annual memberships are $20 for Murrieta residents and MVUSD students. Annual Memberships are $25 for non-residents and non-MVUSD students.
High school students that have moved out of 9th grade will have the opportunity to join the Jr. Staff Program to earn their community service obligation for graduation and assume support roles as mentors and tutors.
Wednesday 2 - 6:30 p.m.
Monday through Friday 3 - 6:30 p.m. During School Breaks
The Murrieta Senior Center offers numerous programs to active seniors aged 50 or better who do not require special care or adult supervision. A membership is required with no fee. Fees do apply for some classes and programs. Regular operating hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The center is closed on holidays. For more information, call (951) 304-PARK (7275).
The Murrieta Senior Center’s lunch program is a great way to get to know your neighbors while having a nutritious meal. Lunch is provided Monday through Friday at 11:15 a.m. A $3 donation is requested. Lunch is on a first-come, firstserved basis. The County intake form must be filled out and approved before starting the lunch program.
• Chair Exercise *
- Monday and Friday
• Chair Yoga *
- Tuesday and Thursday
• Yoga *
- Tuesday and Thursday
• Longevity Stick *
- Tuesday
• Tai Chi *
- Monday and Wednesday
• Pickleball – Beginning *
- Tuesday and Wednesday
• Billiards
• Computer Lab
• Library - Puzzles
• Games
• Book Club
- Meets second Wednesday of the month
• Legal Aide
- First and third Thursday (appointment needed)
• Quilting
- Fridays
• Craft and Chat
- Fridays
The fitness room has treadmills, stationary bicycles, ellipticals, and light weights. A Code of Conduct waiver and orientation must be completed before using the equipment.
Dance & Music
• Line dancing *
-Thursday Daytime & Evening
• Zumba Gold *
-Wednesday & Friday
• Dance, stretch & restore *
-Monday
Ukulele
-Second and fourth Monday
*Sign up and fee required
41755 Juniper Street
Check out one of the City’s newest parks: B Street Station! Our 52nd park opened during the pandemic and has not received the hype it deserves. Located at the corner of B Street and Adams Avenue across from the Murrieta Senior Center, it affords fitness opportunities not found in most parks and is geared toward adults and seniors aged 50 and over. Outdoor fitness equipment selected for this park was specifically chosen for Murrieta’s mature, adult population as well to help individuals regain lost agility and increase strength and flexibility.
Although priority is given to adults and seniors aged 50 and over Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m., the park site is open to the general public after those times and on weekends.
PARK AMENITIES INCLUDE:
• Two pickleball courts
• Outdoor strength-training equipment
• Outdoor ping pong tables
37000 Ruth Ellen Way
• Picnic tables
• Picnic shelter
• Pickleball
CALL US 951-304 PARK
Los Alamos Hills Sports Park is the City’s premier sports recreation park. This park has it all, boasting six soccer fields, three football fields, four ball fields, three tot lots, “Get Fit” stations, and equestrian trails. Traditional sports, such as soccer, football, and baseball, are primarily played at this location through partnerships with Murrieta Youth Soccer, Murrieta Valley Pop Warner, Pylon 2 Pylon, Murrieta Valley Pony Baseball, and Murrieta National Little League. Lacrosse tournaments are also hosted at the soccer fields from time to time, and neighbors love coming together to play frisbee in the open grass areas.
DID YOU KNOW?
Los Alamos Hills Sports Park is only half-built. That’s right! There are another 20+ acres just north of the developed section that is still to be developed. This City is working with well known soccer leagues to build soccer fields. Watch for more information as these plans develop.
This park is also home to the City’s largest picnic shelter, which you can reserve for private gatherings. The park also has the largest tot lot in the City for children 2 to 12 years old. Surrounding open turf areas allow for picnics, games, kite-flying, bubble-blowing, and more!
Equestrian riders can enjoy this site for its connectivity to outer-lying areas and run/walkers enjoy the decomposed granite trail system that interconnects the various elements of the site, creating a variety of options for every distance and fitness level.
The operating hours for any of Murrieta’s park sites without sports field lighting are from sunrise to sunset. To utilize the lit athletic fields beyond sunset, a reservation is required as is the case for any organized league, camp, clinic, or large picnicking group.
Aside from wearing a cool “ranger hat,” Murrieta’s Park Rangers are highly educated and trained individuals ready to handle a variety of situations that come their way. The City’s rangers are also passionate about maintaining quality and safety within the 53 parks they patrol. In addition, they are selfless in their quest to preserve the hundreds of acres of natural open space that wildlife calls home. Together with the parks maintenance division, they ensure that the 25+ miles of trails are unobstructed and open for the public to use and perform minor maintenance.
In evenings and on busy weekends, holidays, or events when attendance spikes, you may find our Park Rangers directing traffic or engaging with the park patrons by answering any number of questions about the City’s facilities and reminding the public about park rules such as closing hours, unleashed dogs, and loud music. They will typically be the first person on the scene when dispatch receives a call regarding a lost child and will work with the City’s Police Department on search efforts as well as communicate with officers and the City’s Fire and Rescue Department when there is an emergency in or near the parks. Since transient individuals often seek shelter in less trafficked parks or open spaces, Park Rangers often report back to the City’s Homeless Outreach Task Force supervisor on any activity found. Park Rangers also need to spend time indoors. They must check email, return calls, write reports, update inventory, and attend meetings.
One of the most fun duties that our Park Rangers have is planning and participating in the City’s Ranger Rap program. Ranger Rap is an interpretive program that educates youth on the importance of our parks, trails, and wildlife; provides them with an understanding of how nature interconnects; and allows them to take an active role toward appreciating habitat conservation. Activities are geared toward informing the youth on the role of a Park Ranger, animals and plant life found locally, and why it is critical to care for our environment. In addition, the Park Rangers oversee the Junior Ranger Program. This free program is geared toward youth that expands on the Ranger Rap topics over a few weeks rather than a couple of hours.
The City’s Park Rangers are constantly training to learn and do more to protect the City’s parks, trails, and open space resources and park visitors like you. Next time you see a Park Ranger, say “Hi” and get to know them a little…they may even let you try on their cool hat!
Ranger Melecia Price (pictured far left in the above photo) has been with the City since 2012. In addition, rangers Cesar Orozco and Jazmine Jennings have been with the City since May 2022. All are full-time City employees who enjoy the outdoors and adventure; they are happy to assist in any capacity. For additional questions about the City’s Park Rangers, the Ranger Rap, or the Junior Ranger programs, please contact the Community Services Department at (951) 304-PARK (7275).
THERE ARE 53 PUBLIC PARKS IN MURRIETA? CHECK THEM OUT AND LEARN MORE ABOUT ALL THE AMENITIES ON THE CITY’S WEBSITE.
This 15-acre Pond Park is a little slice of quiet off one of Murrieta’s busiest streets and is situated in such a way that you will feel as if you have driven miles into nature.
As the name implies, there is a four-acre pond with good-sized catfish and blue gill, as well as plenty of frogs and turtles. Bring a picnic lunch, kite or binoculars and do some bird watching! Waterfowl and migratory birds abound at this site.
There is no designated parking for this site, but Firefighters Park, located a block to the west has parking and it is only a short walk to Pond Park. There is a port-a-potty at Pond Park and permanent restroom facilities are located at Firefighters Park. Remember to obtain a fishing license per State guidelines as State Fish and Wildlife wardens do stop by to check every so often.
1 Town Square, Murrieta, CA 92562 951-304-2489
