the OUTLOOK January/February
November 5 General Election—first district-based election in Pleasant Hill
WiththecertificationoftheNovember5,2024,GeneralElection,Cityof PleasantHillresidentscompletedtheirfirst District-basedElection,selectingnew CouncilmembersforDistricts1,2,and5.
Basedonresultsprovidedbythe ContraCostaCountyOfficeofElections,theresultsforDistricts1and5 wereasfollows:
District1: BelleLa1,250votes MarshallLewis1,217votes District5: AmandaSzakats2,102votes OliverGreenwood1,757votes
InDistrict2,candidateAndrei Obolenskiyranuncontestedduringthe nominationperiodandwas subsequentlyappointedbytheCity CouncilasifElectedintheNovember 5,2024,GeneralElection.
ElectedCouncilmemberswerecertifiedattheDecember16,2024City Councilmeetingwheretheytooktheir placeatthedaisforthefirsttime.
CouncilmembersZacShessandSue Noackwillcontinuetoserveonthe councilatlargethroughtheendoftheir termsin2026,atwhichtimetheywillbe eligibletoseekreelectioninDistricts3 and4respectively.
What’snext? WhilethetransitiontoDistrict-basedelectionscertainly providesresidentsandbusiness ownersincreasedaccessibilityto theCouncilmemberwithintheir District,theCityCouncilcontinues toencourageallresidentsand communitymemberstoreachout toanyofthefiveelectedCouncil memberstosharethoughtsorconcerns.Andwhileresidingwithina districtallowseachCouncilmembertohearthosethoughts firsthandandsharewithCouncil colleagues,theCityCouncilwill continuetogovernwithacitywide perspectivetoensuredecisions reflecttheneedsandinterestsof theentirecommunity.
PHPD Exchange Zone Tohelpprovidesafetyandsecuritywhenconductingpersonalsaletransactions,thePleasantHillPoliceDepartment offersanExchangeZoneatthePHPDOffice,330CivicDrive. Buyerscanmeetsellersforasafeexchangeintheparkinglot ofthePD.TheExchangeZonesareundervideosurveillanceat alltimes.
ExchangeZonesarebecomingthenormamongpolice agenciesintheU.S.duetotherisksassociatedwithbuying/sellingmerchandisethroughonlineexchanges.PleasantHillpolice recommendconductingbusinesstransactionsinsafeareasduringdaylighthoursandlettingafriendorfamilymemberknow whereandwhenthetransactionswilltakeplace.
by the City of Pleasant Hill, California
City seeks applicants for commissions and advisory boards Withthestartofanewyear,manylookatwaystohelporgive backtothecommunity.Forthosedoingso,considerapplyingto serveonacommissionoradvisoryboardfortheCityofPleasantHill. Commitmentsvaryintimeandtermlength.Tobeconsideredfora position,submitanapplicationbythedeadlineofFebruary7,2025.
CivicActionCommission TheCivicActionCommissioncreateseventsthatbringthecommunitytogether,includingCommunityServiceDay(thecity-wide cleanupday)andSummerConcertsbytheLake.IfyouareaPleasant Hillresident,anon-residentbusinesspersonwithabusinessinPleasantHill,orliveoutsideCitylimitsbutwithintheCity’ssphereof influence,youmayapplytobeconsidered.Commissionersare hands-onatevents,andtheCityseekscandidateswhowouldenjoy assistingwiththeplanningandtasksrequired.Meetingsareheldon the1stWednesdayofeachmonthat6:30p.m.atCityHall. Twovacancies:four-yeartermsthrough2029.
CommissiononAging TheCommissiononAgingconsidersmattersaffectingtheagingin thecommunity,providesawarenessofresources,andplansevents includingworkshopsthatrangeintopicsfromfraudpreventionto mentalandphysicalhealthconcerns.Meetings:2nd Thursdayeach monthat5:00p.m.atCityHall. OneunfilledtermthroughApril2028.
CountyConnectionAdvisoryCommittee
TheCentralContraCostaTransitAuthority(CountyConnection) AdvisoryCommitteeadvisestheCountyConnectionBoardofDirectorsonissuesandpoliciesrelatingtofixed-routeandparatransitbus services.IfyouareaPleasantHillresident,haveaninterestinpublic transportation,andwanttogetinvolvedbuthavelimitedtime available,thisCommitteemightbeagoodfitforyou!Meetingsare heldeveryothermonthonthe2ndTuesdayat1:00p.m.atthe CountyConnectionofficeinConcord. Onevacancy:anunfilledterm throughApril2025.
MeasureKOversightCommittee—ChamberMember TheMeasureKOversightCommitteemeetstwotofourtimesper yeartohearpresentationsfromstaffandauditors,reviewfinancial reports,andprovidefeedbackonthefindingsregardingexpendituresofthehalf-centtaxapprovedbyvoters.Candidatesmustown orworkforabusinessthatisamemberofthePleasantHillChamber ofCommerce. OneunfilledvacancythroughJune2028.
Foranapplicationormoreinformationvisit www.PHillCA.gov/vacancyorcontactJuanitaDavalos atjdavolos@PHillCA.govor(925)671-5283.
Thousands come out to Light Up the Night
TheCityofPleasantHillwaswarmedasthousands cametoCrescentDriveNovember23totakepartin theCity’sannualLightUptheNight.
Afteraweekofthreateningweather,theskies clearedallowinga fantasticevening ofcrafts,songs, performers,and freehotchocolate.Over3,000 peoplecame downtoenjoy dancing,juggling, magicandmusic ontwodifferentstages.TheHolidayExpresstrains steamedupanddownthestreetandSantamadea specialappearance tohelpwiththe annuallightingof theChristmastree.
TheCityisgratefultoitspartner, DowntownPleasant Hill,aswellasallof theperformers, agencies,commissionsandvendors whocameoutto maketheevening special.
NewsfromtheCity... California’s new law prohibits parking near crosswalks StartingonJanuary1,2025,itwillbeillegalinCaliforniato parkwithin20feetoftheapproachofanymarked orunmarkedcrosswalk,eveniftherearenopainted redcurbs.
CaliforniaAssemblyBill413wassignedintolawinOctober 2023andreplicatesthelawinotherstatesthatsimilarly requirespeoplenottoparkrightnexttocrosswalks.Specifically,thelaw:
Createsanewsectionofthe VehicleCode,CVC22500(n), whichprohibitsthestopping,standing,orparkingofavehiclewithin20feetofthevehicleapproachsideofanyunmarkedormarkedcrosswalkor15feetofanycrosswalk withacurbextensionanywhereinCalifornia.
Clarifiesonatwo-waystreetthatonlythespaceonthe right-sideapproachingacrosswalkasoneisdrivingisaffected. However,onaone-waystreet,boththeleftandtherightcurb areas20feetfromthecrosswalkarenoparkingzones. Allowslocaljurisdictionstopaintzonesthatarelongeror shorterthan20feet.Whenyouseearedcurborparking prohibitionsignnexttoacrosswalkjustfollowthatdistance.Ifthereisnopaintorsigns,the20-footdistanceapplies.Twentyfeetisaboutthelengthofastandardparking spaceoronelargecarlength.
Thelawaimstoenhancesafetybyimprovingvisibilityat intersections: Parkedvehiclesnearcrosswalkslimitpedestrianvisibility, increasingtheriskofsevereinjuryorfatalcollisions.
Removingtheseobstructionshelpsdriversseepedestrians andletspedestriansseeoncomingcarswithoutstepping intotheintersection.
Intersectiondaylightingisaproventrafficsafetypractice.
Formoreinformationsee www.phillca.gov/1647/AB-413-Parking-Law.
Proactive Planning for aging—panel discussion Mostpeoplewantto remainlivingsafelyandindependentlyforaslongas possible.Planningaheadis important,yethard, becauseyouneverknow howyourneedsmight change.Youcansuccessfullynavigateagingifyou takestepstobetterunderstandwhatresourcesmightbe neededandwheretofindthem.
ThePleasantHillCommissiononAgingispresentingapanel discussiontohelpyouidentifyandunderstandcriticalinformationneededasyounavigatephasesoftheseniorliving experience:
Thursday,February20,2025—1:30to3:00p.m. PleasantHillCityHall,CityCouncilChambers 100GregoryLane,PleasantHill,CA94523
Pre-registeratwww.PHillCA.gov/COAEvents.AZoom optionwillbemadeavailableuponregistration.Walk-insare welcomeifspacepermits.
Joinustolearnfromthe followingpanelofexperts
FranciscoVogal/Home Care:WhatareADL’s/whenis ittimetobringinhelp/private vslicensedcaregiversandhow toselectanagency.
BryanRiddle/TransitionalLiving:Differencebetween anAssistedLivingFacility(ALF),Board&Care(RCFE), SkilledNursingFacility(SNF)andwhytouseaplacementagency.
BrianO’Toole/Attorney:Discussionofnecessarylegal documents/WillvsTrust/AdvanceHealthCareDirective/PowerofAttorney/POLYST.
LornaVanAckeren/GeriatricCareManagement:Learn howaGCMcanhelpyounavigatethehealthcaresystemandhowtoadvocateforyourrights.
Everyonehasadifferentlivingsituationandasyou growolderyourneedswillprobablychange.Toagewith peaceofmind,joinusandplannowforyourfuture!
NewsfromtheCity... New businesses in Pleasant Hill TheCityofPleasantHillwelcomesfournewsmallbusinessesthatrecently openedtheirdoors.Ifyouhavenotalready,checkthemoutandshowthemyour support!
IslaGrandRestaurant
548ContraCostaBlvd SavortheessenceofFilipinoKapampangancuisine
CantinaJack’s 40CrescentDrive,SuiteC FunMexicanCantinawithdelicious Mexicanfoodandamazingcocktails
Young artists shine in public art display at Pleasant Hill City Hall —PujaKumari, PleasantHillEducationCommissioner
InNovember,theCityofPleasantHill EducationCommissionproudlyunveiled avibrantStudentArtDisplayprogramat CityHall.OneoftheEducationCommission’spillarsaspartofourfive-year StrategicPlanistocommunicateandcelebrategoodthingshappeninginour schoolcommunity.Thatiswhy we’resopleasedtoofferthisspecialexhibit,whichshowcasesthe incredibletalentsoflocalstudents andcelebratestheircreativity.
Therotatingdisplayswillfeatureanimpressivearrayoforiginal artworks,includingvividpaintings, intricatesculptures,andimaginativemixed-mediacreations. Throughthemesofidentity,community,andself-expression,these youngartistssharetheirunique perspectivesandstories,offering
visitorsameaningfulconnectiontotheir ideasandinspirations.
ThisinitiativeunderscoresPleasant Hill’scommitmenttofosteringcreativity, culturalenrichment,andcommunity pride.TheEducationCommission,dedicatedtoengagingandconnectingwith thecommunity,emphasizestheimportanceofprovidingopportunitiesfor
SelfcarebyCalMedCiti
91GregoryLane,Suite13 Medicalspaofferingawiderangeof non-surgicalcosmetictreatments
VenusBeautyCreations 395CivicDrive,SuiteE Cosmetictattooingincludingbrows,lip blush,andtattoolightening/removal.
youngcreatorstosharetheirtalentsand vision.
Whetheryou’recaptivatedbybold visuals,thoughtfulnarratives,orthe innovativespiritofemergingartists,this exhibithassomethingforeveryoneto admireandreflectupon.
Admissionisfree,ensuringaccessibilityforalltoenjoythisinspiring celebrationofartandcommunity.Joinustoexperiencethe creativity,passion,andpotential ofPleasantHill’syouth.Let’s cometogethertocelebratethe artsandtheconnectionsthat makeourcommunitythrive.
PleasantHillCityHall 100GregoryLane
Monday-Wednesday 8:30a.m.–5:00p.m.
Thursday: 8:30a.m.–6:00p.m. Friday: 8:30a.m.–1:00p.m. Saturday&Sunday: closed CantinaJack’s
IslaGrandRestaurant
NewsfromtheCity... The Civic Action Commission has been very busy this year!
—BarbaraThor,ChairpersonCivic ActionCommission
Asweheadinto abrandnewyear, I’dliketotakea momentandlook backatwhatan amazingyearthe CivicActionCommission(CAC)had in2024.Tostartthe year,thecommissionhadanewlogo designedsothe publicwouldrecognizeus.Lookforit onourtent,banners,signs,etc.
InMay,theCACkickedoffthe2024 ConcertbytheLakeSeries!Ourlineup expandedmusicalgenresandbroughtan arrayofnewactivitytothelake,through theadditionoffoodtrucks,moreFamily FunZones,andevenacarshow.We receivedenthusiasticfeedbackonthese newactivities,andwewillcontinueto lookatwaystomaketheconcertsfunfor everyone.OurSelectionCommittee wentthroughover120bandapplications topickoutthe8performersforour25th AnniversaryYear!
Wecelebrated20yearsofgivingback withourAnnualCommunityServiceDay. ThecelebrationbeganontheFriday beforewithaPartyinthePark.Therewas anostalgicwalkbackintimewithTee ShirtandHistoryExhibits.FormerMayor MattRinnandformerMayorMichael Harris,wholaunchedCommunityService Day20yearsago,wereonhandtoshare someoftheirfavoritememories.
Over400volunteerstookpartthis year,makingitpossibletoincreasethe numberofprojectsfrom14to20,includingaRedCrossBloodDriveandafood drivethatcollected1,500poundsof donations!
Weended theyearwitha CAC“WriteaLettertoSanta Claus”boothat thecity’sLight UptheNight event.
Aswemove into2025,the CivicAction Commissionis excitedtoannouncetheadditionof anotherfunactivityasweprepareto celebrateEarthDayinApril!
Honoring Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Black History Month: A Legacy of Justice and Equality
—LizNunan&CarsonSprott,Cityof PleasantHillDiversityCommission
OnMartinLutherKingJr.Dayand inBlackHistoryMonth,wereflecton theenduringlegacyofDr.Kingand thecountlessBlackAmericanswho haveshapedournation’shistory.Dr. King’svision,immortalizedinhis famousdeclarationthathedreamed ofadaywhenhischildrenwould “notbejudgedbythecoloroftheir skinbutbythecontentoftheircharacter,”continuestoinspirethefight forequalityandinclusion.
BlackHistoryMonth,celebrated everyFebruary,offersavitalopportunitytorecognizethe achievementsandcontributionsof BlackAmericansthroughouthistory. Fromthetransformativeleadership ofDr.Kingtotheinnovationsof modern-daypioneers,therichness ofBlackhistoryremindsusofthe strengththatcomesfrominclusion.
InPleasantHill,wehonorthislegacybyfosteringacommunityrooted inunderstanding,inclusion,and respectforall.Thismonthisatime foreducation,celebration,and action—whetherbyattendinglocal events,supportingBlack-owned businesses,orengaginginconversationsaboutraceandequality.
Dr.Kingoncesaid,“Injusticeanywhereisathreattojustice everywhere.”Letthismonthremind usoftheworkthatremainsand inspireustobuildafuturewhere opportunityknowsnobounds. Together,letuscelebratethe achievementsofthosewhostruggledtodivesttheU.S.fromthe vestigesofpastsegregationand committoabrighter,moreinclusive tomorrow.
GENERAL ANNOUNCEMENTS Thrivein2025! The2025Winter/Springissue ofTheSpotlightrecreationguide isnowavailableatPHRec&Park facilitiesandonlineat pleasanthillrec.com.Exploreall thepossibilitiestoaddmorefun,moreenrichment,exercise,andplayforallinthenewyear.Registrationisnow openforactivitiesscheduledinJanuary-earlyApril2025.
NEW!PriorityRegistrationisnowofferedforPleasant HillRecreation&ParkDistrictresidents.ThisnewregistrationpolicyallowsDistrictresidentstoenrollinclasses andactivitiestwodaysbeforenon-residents.Formore information,visitwww.PleasantHillRec.com/689.
Preschool Registrationforthe2025–2026schoolyearopensto newDistrictresidentpreschoolfamiliesonApril16,2025, at9:00a.m.onlineatpleasanthillrec.com/175.Registrationfornewnon-residentfamiliesopensonApril17, 2025,at9:00a.m.online.Registrationisonafirstcome, firstservedbasis.Birthcertificateimmunizationrecords andproofofresidencyarerequiredfordiscount.Childrenmustbeageappropriateby9/1/2025.Priority registrationinMarch2025forcurrentstudentsandtheir siblings.Formoreinformationandcurrentavailability, pleasecontactthedirector,SarahSmith,at(925) 771-7626orssmith@pleasanthillrec.com.
NEW!AfternoonArtExplorationpreschoolprogram.Preschoolers,TKandKindergartenersjoin preschoolstaffforlunchtimeandartfilledafternoons.Childrenwillexploreavarietyofartmaterials andlearnaboutfamousartistS.Learnmoreandregister atwww.PleasantHillRec.com.
Youth YouthAfterschoolEnrichmentClasses
Sparktoyourchild’suniqueinterestsinthenewyearby enrollinginafunnewclasssuchasyouthmusicclasses (piano,ukulele,ProjectRockband),HipHopandother danceclasses(newTeendanceclassesnowavailable),art &S.T.E.A.M.classes,leadershipclasses,theVoenaChildren’sChoir,JapanKarateDo,YouthFencingandmore. Browseouronlinecatalogatwww.PleasantHillRec.com.
YouthSportsPrograms KickstartthenewyearbyenrollingyourchildinourexcitingyouthsportsprogramsincludingJr.NBA/WNBABoys& GirlsBasketballSpringLeaguesstarting3/22/25. Registrationisnowopenatpleasanthillrec.com/242.Registrationcloses2/28/25.
NewUltimateFrisbeeandSkateboardingclassesare alsoavailable!
SpringBreakCamps KeepyourkidsactiveoverMDUSD’sSpringBreak!Choose fromfunfull-daycampoptionsforyouth(K-5)andteens(grades 6&up(siblingsgrades3&up)orenrichmentcampsincluding S.T.E.A.M.campsfeaturingcoding,robotics,Legos,artandmore! VisitPleasantHillRec.com/478.
Teens Teenonlinedriver’seducationnowavailable 15yrs&up.ReceiveDMV-approvedCertificateofCompletion.Twoonlinecourseoptionsavailable.Oneisself-directed andoneiswithaliveinstructor.
Babysitting101Workshop(10-16yrs)
March2,2025,10:00a.m.–2:00p.m.Registrationrequired. Learntheskillsneededtobeatrustedandresponsible babysitterincludingchildhooddevelopment,bedtimestrategies,positiveredirection,howtogetajob,andwaystomake babysittingfunforyouandthekids.Basicfirstaid,general safety,andwhattodoinanemergencywillalsobecovered. Participantswillearntheirbabysittingcertificateuponsuccessfulcompletionofthecourse.
Aquatics AquaticsTeamnowhiring! 15yrs&up|Lifeguards,SwimInstructors,Cashiers WhenyoubecomeamemberofthePleasantHillRec&Park Aquaticsstaff,whatyoudoisimportant,meaningfuland providesaspringboardforyourfuturecareerandlifeadventures.Notonlywillyougettoworkwithfunpeopleinthe greatoutdoors,teachingpeopleofallageshowtoswim andhelpingtokeepthemsafearoundthepool,butyouwill alsolearnimportantcareer-transferrableskillslikeeffective communication,teamwork,leadership,decisionmaking andsomanymore!Soundlikesomethingyou’dliketodive into?Let’sconnect! Formoreinformation,visitourwebsite atwww.pleasanthillrec.com/161.
DolfinsSwimTeamregistrationnowopenfor2025! JointheDolfinsSwimTeam,a welcomingrecreationalswim program.Tolearnmorevisit PleasantHillRec.com/239RegisterfortheDolfinsor MiniDolfinsonlineat PleasantHillRec.comorin-personatDistrictoffice(M-F, 9:00a.m.–5:00p.m.).Register earlytotakeadvantageofthe optionalpaymentplan.For moreinformation,call(925)682-0896.
Getajumpstartonsummerswimming! SpringswimlessonsregistrationopensFebruary18(District Residents)&20(Non-Residents).Watchforlessonsession informationintheSpring/Summer2025issueofThe Spotlightinmid-February.Startlearningtoswimearlyto beatthesummercrowds!
Rec&ParkinAction Adults Thrive!
Findtimeinyourbusyscheduleforself-care.Keepyourself healthyandactiveinthenewyearbyenrollinginafitnessor danceclass!Fromnewcardiodrumming,Zumbagold,TaiChi, pilates,yoga,andNiatobellydancing,linedancingandournew NordicWalkingclasses,we’vegotawidevarietyofactivitiesto helpyoufindmorebalanceandfuninyourlife.Visit PleasantHillRec.comorcall(925)682-0896.
Gettingmarriedin2025?
EnrollinourWeddingFirstDance&SpecialOccasionDance Workshopon3/12/25,7:00-9:00p.m.Registeronlineat www.PleasantHillRec.com.
Getyourteaminthegame! AdultTeamSportsRecreationLeagues.
Softball/Soccer/FlagFootball/Bocce/Basketball–Coed–Men’s–Women’sLeagues!Allleaguesareteam-registration based.Spring2025registrationopeningsoon.Getyourteam togetherandregisternowatPleasantHillRec.com/288.
Fieldtripsforadults(21+yrs)
Meetnewfriendsand havefunasyouexplore NorthernCaliforniain thecompanyoffellow travelenthusiasts!Visit pleasanthillrec.com/352 toviewlatestlocal adventuresandcome explorewithus!
Events Inclusiverecreationdances
Jan10:Martinez(818GreenStreet)
Feb14:PleasantHill(233GregoryLane)
Mar14:WalnutCreek(111NWigetLane)
PleasantHillRec&ParkDistrict,inpartnershipwithCityof Concord,MartinezandWalnutCreek,hostsdancesspecifically designedfordevelopmentallydisabledadults(18yrs+).For moreinformationand2025schedulecontactKarenMcKimmy at kmckimmy@pleasanthillrec.com.PleasantHilllocation:233 GregoryLane.Admission:$8/person,cashatthedoor.Caregiversfree.
KidsNightOut (4-15yrs)
Friday,February14,6:00–9:00p.m.PleasantHillTeenCenter. FRIDAYNIGHTFUN!Letouramazingstaffentertainyourkids andtheirfriendsfortheeveningwhileyouenjoya much-deservedparenttimeout!KidsNightOutactivities includecrafts,games,pizza,popcorn,movies,andmore! Registerearlyandstartplanningyourme-timenow!Youngerparticipantsmustbefullypotty-trained. Pre-registrationatPleasantHillRec.comencouraged. Admission:$35/$35(Dist.Res.)
PopUpdates (FREE)
Popinandplaywithusthisspring!Rec&Parkstaffhavelotsof outdoorgamesandactivitiesplannedforourpop-upplaydate! Wewillprovidethefun–youprovidethesmiles.FREEtothe public.Visitpleassanthillrec.com/545forplaydateschedule andlocation.
Calling students, parents, and retirees: make your mark on Pleasant Hill and join the 4th of July Commission!
—ChrisTipton,4thofJulyCommission
Areyoulookingforawaytodeepenyourconnectionto yourcommunity?Ifso,considerjoiningthePleasantHill4th ofJulyCommission!Thisisn’tjustaboutvolunteering;it’s aboutbecomingavitalpartofthecity’smostcelebrated annualeventandconnectingwithyourcommunityinatruly meaningfulway.
ThePleasantHill4thofJulycelebrationisthecity’slargestsingle-dayeventbroken-upintofoursub-events(5KRun, DowntownParade,PartyinthePark,andFireworksShow), butittakesawholeteamandyear-roundefforttobringitto life.Byjoiningthecommission,you’llgainauniqueperspectiveontheinnerworkingsofPleasantHillthrough collaborationwithcitydepartmentsandcommunity organizations.
Theimpactgoesfarbeyondtheeventitself;forexample, theFirecracker5KRunhasraisedhundredsofthousandsof dollarsforPleasantHillschoolsovertheyears.It’sacelebrationthattrulygivesback,andyou’llbevolunteering alongsidepeoplewhoarepassionateaboutmakinga difference.
HighSchoolStudents:Joiningthe commissionalsomeans gaininghands-onexperiencewithevent planningandlocalgovernance.You’lllearn meetingprocedures, manageaposition,and helpcreateandmonitorbudgets.
Parents&Retirees:Ifyouhaveskillsinaccounting,event planning,networking,fundraising,marketing,orwebdevelopment,yourexpertisecanhelpmakethiseventevenmore memorable.Butnoexperienceisrequired—justadesireto contribute!
Meetingsareonceamonthonthe3rdWednesdayat 7:30pmintheCommunityRoomatCityHall.Ournextmeeting isWednesday,January15th,2025. Formoreinformation,reachouttoChrisTiptonat pleasanthilljuly4@gmail.com.
OpenMon/Tuefrom10a.m.to8p.m., Wed/Thufrom10a.m.to6p.m. Frifrom9a.m.to5p.m.and Satfrom9a.m.to5p.m.
2MonticelloAve,PleasantHill
FORKIDSANDFAMILIES PerryYanMagicShow
Tuesday,January7|6:30p.m.
Funforthewholefamily!Magician PerryYandazzlesanddelightswithspellbindingmagictricksandhissignature humor.Allagesandabilitieswelcome.
RockSteadyJuggling
Tuesday,January14|6:30p.m.
Joinusfor‘Eco-tainment’atthe library. GowiththeFlow willfeature comedy,magic,andtheartofjuggling. Allagesandabilitieswelcome.
It’sYogaKids Tuesday,January21|6:30p.m.
Growyourconfidence,flexibility, focusandbalanceateveryage.Certified instructorsteachfunevidence-based physicalandmentalhealthsuccessskills tofeelhealthierandhappier.Joinusat thePleasantHillLibraryforacalmand stress-freehourofyoga.Pleasebringa toweloryourownyogamat. Allages andabilitieswelcome.
Crafts,ChalkArt&Chili
Tuesday,January28|6:00p.m. Joinusforaneveningofcrafts,chalk art,bubbles,andmusic.We’llprovidethe craftsupplies;yousupplythecreativity. Allagesandabilitieswelcome.
LunarNewYear:LionDance
Tuesday,February4|6:30p.m. CelebratetheYearoftheSnakeatthis excitingshowputonbythetalentedperformersofTomizaki’sChampionsKung FuInstitute.
EastBayVivarium:Snakesand OtherSlime-yCreatures
Tuesday,February18|6:30p.m. Dropbyforup-closeglimpsesofslitherysnakes,amazingarachnids,and awesomeamphibians.We’llalsoexplore fascinatingfctsaboutthecreatures’lives, habitats,andrelationshiptohumans.
Craft&Chill:‘AblazewithColor’ CommunityPaintNight
Tuesday,February25|6:00p.m. ThisspecialeditionofCraft&Chillwill beanhomagetopioneeringAfrican Americanpainter,AlmaThomas.Ledby culturalfolkartistRachelPalacios, togetherwewillpaintamini-muralcelebratingcommunityandartusing Thomas’sdistinctanddazzlingtechnique.
BlackChildren’sBookWeek: StorytimeSpecialwithChildren’s BookAuthorRebeccaWalker
Tuesday,February28|11:00a.m. RebeccaWalkerwillreadaloudher newchildren’sbook“TimeforUs.”Stick aroundforstayandplayandQ&Awith theauthor.Generouslysponsoredbythe FriendsofthePleasantHillLibrary.
FORTEENS WatercolorCookiesforTeens Monday,February10|3:00p.m. Joinusinthemakerspacewith YvonneLinwhowillteachushowto makefunwatercolorcookies.Each personwillmakeasetofcookies usingfondantasacanvasandgel foodcoloringastheirpaint.This eventisfortweensandteens,6thto 12thgrade,registrationisrequired.
TravelingReptileShow forTeens
Tuesday,February25|2:45p.m. EastBayVivariumwillbevisiting thelibraryafterschoolforafunand interactiveanimaltalkjustforteens! Noregistrationrequired.Programis limitedtotweensandteens,6thto 12thgrade,asspacepermits.
SewingStudioBasics Thursdays|3:00–5:00p.m. Learntosewinthelibrary makerspace!Inthisintroductory workshop,tweensandteenswill learnthebasicsofhowtouseasewingmachineandcreateasimple projecttotakehome!Noexperience necessary.Registrationandsafety waiverrequiredfortweensand teens9to18years.
NewsfromtheLibrary,cont... FORADULTSandSENIORS ManagingStress
Saturday,January11|11:00a.m.
JoinPsychotherapistClareShieldsinthe MakerSpaceforalivelydiscussionon stressandmentalhealth.Weallexperience stressanditseffectonourlives.Clarewill providesomeeducationandwaysofidentifyingandmanagingstress.Registration encouragedbutnotrequired.
UnsungWomenofMusic
Monday,January13|6:30p.m.
Joinusforahumorous,highly immersive,andhistoricallyaccuratetalk thatrevealstheawe-inspiringfemalesong makers,beat-shakers,anddealmakers nudgedtothemarginsofmusichistory withMarkMontgomeryFrench.Noregistrationrequired.
TheKalimbaKingKing
Monday,February3|6:30p.m.
Experienceaperformanceofthe Kalimba,theAfricanthumbpiano,bythe KingofKalimba.Hisextensivesongbook includesgospel,jazz,blues,pop,andeven someoriginalsongs.TheKalimbaisan instrumentofcultural,political,andspiritualsignificanceandisnottobemissed.No registrationrequired.
Drop-inShop
Mondays|6:00-8:00p.m.
Callingalladulttinkersandmakers!Try outthetoolsandtechinthelibrary’s makerspace.Meetthemachinesandconnectwithothermakers.Bringaproject,or justyourcuriosity.Noregistration.Adults only.Signedsafetywaiverrequired.
Drop-inKnitting
Tuesdays|6:00-8:00p.m.
Joinanenthusiasticgroupofknitters TuesdayeveningsintheMakerSpace.You candropinanytime.Anyskilllevelorability iswelcome,thoughthegroupissocialand notinstructional.Pleasebringyourown projectsandsupplies.Noregistration required!
BookClub
1st Mondayor2nd FridayoftheMonth| 1:00p.m.
ThePleasantHillLibraryhoststwobook clubsamonthforadultsinourMaker Space.Toseewhattitlesthey’rereading next,pleasevisitccclib.org.
Permit-Ready Accessory Dwelling Unit (PRADU) Program InJanuary2025,theCitywillbereleasinganew“PermitReadyAccessory DwellingUnitProgram”(“PRADU”)forhomeownerswishingtoconstruct anAccessoryDwellingUnit(ADU)ontheirproperty.ADUsareattachedor detachedresidentialdwellingunitsthatprovidecompleteindependentlivingfacilities(kitchen,bathroom,livingspace)locatedonalotwitha proposedorexistingprimaryresidence.Theintentofthenewprogramisto furtherstreamlinethepermittingofADUswithintheCity.
Throughtheprogram,PleasantHillhomeownerswillhaveaccessto pre-approvedbuilding-permit-levelplansforthreeuniquedetachedADUsas follows:
Plan1: 350-square-foot, studioADU
Plan2: 636-square-foot, one-bedroom/one-bathroom ADU
Plan3: 798-square-foot,two-bedroom/one-bathroomADU
Eachunithasbeendesigned toaccommodateafullkitchen, livingarea,andlaundryfacility. Additionally,eachfloorplan measureslessthan800squarefeetinfloorareaandthereforequalifiesfora streamlined,“buildingpermitonly”reviewperStateLawandtheCity’sADU Ordinance.
Homeownersmayalsochoosebetweenthreeuniqueexteriorelevation styles:
Bungalow: horizontalfiber cementsiding,Dutchgable roofelement,woodportcolumns(optional),andasphalt shingleroof
CaliforniaRanch: fibercementboardandbattensiding,decorativegable pedimentdetails,stoneveneerwainscot,optional frontporchwithhorizontal woodrailing,andasphalt shingleroof
Modern: stuccofaçade,porchandwindowawningelements,horizontal woodsidingentryelement,asphaltshingleroof,optionalfrontporch Oncetheprogramisfinalized,thenecessaryconstruction-leveltechnical plansforeachfloorplanandelevationstylewillbemadeavailableonlineforuse byanyonewantingtoconstructapre-approvedADUontheirproperty.InadditiontotheADUbuildingpermitplans,applicantswillneedtoprovideasiteplan fortheirspecificlotandmustsubmitabuildingpermitapplicationandpay requiredpermitfees.NOTE:Homeownersarenotrequiredtoselectaplanfrom thePRADUprogram;theCitywillcontinuetoacceptandreviewADUbuilding permitplansifpreferred.
FormoreinformationonthePRADUProgram,contacttheCityofPleasant HillPlanningDivisionatplanning@phillca.govor(925)671-5209.
How $3 a day keeps the community flowing
FortheaverageContraCostaWater District(CCWD)customerwhouses230 gallonsperday,just$3adayensures accesstosafe,reliablewater.Thissmall investmentsupportsthemaintenanceof criticalinfrastructure,protectionof resources,anddeliveryofsafe,clean drinkingwater.Here’showthat$3 breaksdowntokeepwaterflowingto localcommunities:
InfrastructureInvestments($0.75/day). Asubstantialportionofyourwater billfundstheupkeepandimprovementofpipes,pumps,andtreatment facilities.Theseinvestmentsareessentialtomaintainingaresilientwater system.
PurchasedWater($0.09/day). To meetdemand,especiallyduring droughts,CCWDallocatesfundstosecureadditionalwatersupplies,ensuringyourtapneverrunsdry.
WaterSupplyandResourceProtection($0.06/day).Safeguardingfuture watersuppliesinvolvesprotecting
watersheds,managingreservoirs,andsecuringresources tomeettheneedsoftomorrow.
SystemOperations& Maintenance($1.33/day). Around-the-clockeffortskeep pumpsrunning,pipelinesflowing,andtreatmentplantsoperationaltodeliver high-qualitywater.
Administration($0.61/day). Behindeverydropisadedicatedteammanagingwater qualitytesting,regulatory compliance,andfutureplanning.
CustomerCare($0.15/day). Whether it’sbilling,servicequestions,orassistancerequests,CCWD’scustomerserviceteamisheretohelp.
CommunityEducation&Workforce Development($0.01/day). Supporting conservationeffortsandtrainingthe
nextgenerationofwaterprofessionalsensuresasustainable future.
Forjust$3aday,you’reinvesting inawatersystemthat’ssafe,reliable,andreadytomeetthe community’sneeds.Learnmoreat ccwater.com/1070.
Fighting climate change by recycling organic waste InSeptember2016,GovernorEdmundBrown,Jr.setmethane emissionsreductiontargetsforCalifornia(SB1383Lara)inastatewideefforttoreduceemissionsofshort-livedclimatepollutants. Thetargetsmust:
Reduceorganicwastedisposal75%by2025.
Rescueforpeopletoeatatleast20%ofcurrentlydisposedsurplusfoodby2025.
Ifeachoneofusdoesourpart,threemillioncarsworthofclimatepollutionwillbecutbyreachingSB1383’srecyclingandfood rescuetargets!
Landfillsarethethirdlargestsourceofmethane inCalifornia
Organicwasteinlandfillsemits:
20%ofthestate’smethane,asuperpollutant84timesmorepotentthancarbondioxide.
AirpollutantslikePM2.5,whichcontributestohealthconditions likeasthma.
Organicslikefoodscraps,yardtrimmings,paper,andcardboard makeuphalfofwhatCaliforniansdumpinlandfills.Reducing Short-LivedClimateSuperPollutantslikeorganicwastewillhavethe fastestimpactontheclimatecrisis.
Propersortingisthekey
Keepdoingyourparttofightclimatechangebysorting properly!
CityMeetings... MeetingscheduleSUBJECTTOCHANGE.Pleasecheckthe AgendaCenterontheCity’swebsiteatwww.phillca.gov/agendas formeetingaccessandagendainformation.
January Thu2 5:00p.m.ArchitecturalReviewCommissionLargeCommunityRoom
Mon13 7:00p.m.CityCouncilCityCouncilChambers
Tue7 4:00p.m.TrafficSafetyCommissionLargeCommunityRoom
Wed8 6:30p.m.CivicActionCommissionLargeCommunityRoom
Thu9 5:00p.m.CommissiononAgingSmallCommunityRoom
Thu9 5:00p.m.ZoningAdministratorPublicWorksConferenceRoom
Tue14 6:30p.m.PlanningCommissionCityCouncilChambers
Thu16 5:00p.m.ArchitecturalReviewCommissionLargeCommunityRoom
Tue21 6:30p.m.DiversityCommissionSmallCommunityRoom
Thu23 7:00p.m.EducationCommissionLargeCommunityRoom
Tue28 6:30p.m.PlanningCommissionCityCouncilChambers
February Mon3 7:00p.m.CityCouncilCityCouncilChambers
Tue4 4:00p.m.TrafficSafetyCommissionLargeCommunityRoom
Wed5 6:30p.m.CivicActionCommissionLargeCommunityRoom
Thu6 5:00p.m.ArchitecturalReviewCommissionLargeCommunityRoom
Tue11 6:30p.m.PlanningCommissionCityCouncilChambers
Thu13 5:00p.m.CommissiononAgingSmallCommunityRoom
Thu13 5:00p.m.ZoningAdministratorPublicWorksConferenceRoom
Tue18 6:30p.m.DiversityCommissionSmallCommunityRoom
Thu20 5:00p.m.ArchitecturalReviewCommissionLargeCommunityRoom
Mon24 7:00p.m.CityCouncilCityCouncilChambers
Tue25 6:30p.m.PlanningCommissionCityCouncilChambers
Thu27 5:00p.m.ZoningAdministratorPublicWorksConferenceRoom
Thu27 7:00p.m.EducationCommissionLargeCommunityRoom
Allmeetingswillbeheldinperson. Forlivestreamingofthesemeetings,gotowww.phillca.govandclickon“WatchMeetings”icon. Sign up for Emergency Alerts! ResidentscansignupforNixlealertsatwww.nixle.com. RegisterfortheCommunityWarningSystem (CWS)alertsathttps://cwsalerts.com.
CITYOFPLEASANTHILL
100GregoryLane PleasantHill,CA94523-3323 925-671-5270 www.phillca.gov
CITYOFFICIALS
Mayor SueNoack
Vice-Mayor ZacShess Councilmembers
BelleLa AndreiObolenskiy AmandaSzakats
CityTreasurer ErickCheung
CityCouncilmeetingsarebroadcaston Comcastchannel28,U-Verse Channel99,andWaveBroadbandChannel1029 onfirstandthirdWednesdaysat7:00p.m. Videosofmeetingsarealsoavailableon theCitywebsiteunder“WatchMeetings.”
CITYHALLHOURS
Mon–Wed,8:30a.m.–5:00p.m; Thurs,8:30a.m.—6:00p.m.; Fri,8:30a.m.–1:00p.m.
the OUTLOOK
TheOutlooknewsletter ispublishedbimonthly onrecycledpaper.Forquestionsandcomments, pleasecontacttheCommunityRelationsManager’s Officeat(925)671-5229.
Editor/WriterGeoffGillette, CommunityRelationsManager/PIO Design/miscphotosDonaghuGraphicDesigns CoverphotoAllenVinson COVER:PleasantHillCityHall
ImportantPhoneNumbers
Police/FireEmergency911
Police(Business)(925)288-4600
Fire(Business)(925)941-3300
PublicServicesCenter(925)671-4646
ChamberofCommerce(925)687-0700
Recreation&Parks(925)682-0896
Trashandrecycling(925)685-4711
PG&E(800)743-5000
SeniorCenter(925)798-8788
SeniorVanService(925)671-5272
Library(925)646-6434
New year, new CERT course— Hurry,ournextcoursebeginsJanuary7!
ThreereasonstotaketheCERTcourse Understandhowtoprepareforandsurviveasevere disaster.
Knowwhatsuppliesandequipmentyouneedto shelter,feed,andclotheyourfamilyforuptothree weeks,withoutelectricity,water,orgas. Asacommunityvolunteer,traininfiresafety,light search&rescue,teamorganization,anddisaster medicaloperations. (CERTisanofficialprogramof FEMAEmergencyManagement.)
Isyourhomeearthquake-ready?
Structural (e.g.,foundation,cripplewall,chimney).
Non-Structural: (e.g.,straplargeobjectssuchas bookcases,filecabinets,TVs;useearthquakeresistantpicturehooks,cabinetlatches)
Checkourwebsiteformoreinformation: www.pleasanthillcert.org/supplies-and-quick-tips Questions?ContactJimBonatoat(925)938-5433
Ournextcoursebeginsin
January2025withthefollowingdates January7,14,21,and28;February4,11,and25
CERTGraduationExercise: Saturday,February 22
LOCATION: St.AndrewsPresbyterianChurch, 1601MaryDrive,PleasantHill TIME: 6:00p.m.–9:00p.m.
Formoreinformation, seeourwebsiteat www.pleasanthillcert.org/training-details.Registerforthe courseat: www.pleasanthillca.org/ forms.aspx?FID=69.
Astheholidayseasonwindsdown,thePleasantHillPolice Departmentcontinuestoremindresidentstobecarefultoparty responsibly.
Drivingwhileintoxicateddoesn’tjustriskthelifeand well-beingofthedriver—itplaceseveryoneinthevehicleandon theroadinjeopardyaswell.Between2018and2022,over37%of fatalcaraccidentsovertheholidayswerealcoholrelated.
Intheinterestofkeepingourcommunitiesandlovedones safe,thePleasantHillPoliceDepartmentisofferingthefollowing tipstohelpreduceandpreventdrunkdrivingincidents: Planahead. Ifyou’replanningtopartake,makeplanstoavoid drivingbyarrangingforaride.
Designateadriver. Goingouttogetherasagroup?Makesure everyoneagreesonwhowillbethedesignateddrivertoensureeveryonegetshomesafely.
Getaride. Ifyou’vebeendrinking,callataxi,usearideshare service(likeUber,Lyft,etc)oraskasoberfriendtogiveyoua lifthome.
Bemindfulofmedications. Manyprescriptionand over-the-countermedicinescanimpairyourabilitytodrive,especiallywhencombinedwithalcohol.
Don’tforgettoeat. Don’tdrinkonanemptystomach;alcohol entersyourbloodstreamfasterandharderwhenyoudon’t havefoodinyourstomach.
Knowyourlimits. Holdyourselfaccountableforknowing whenyou’vereachedyourlimit.
ThePleasantHillPoliceDepartmentencourageseveryoneto usegoodjudgementandcareastheystartabrandnewyear.If youobservedrivingthatappearserraticordangerouswhileout ontheroads,weencourageyoutoreportittothePleasantHill PoliceDepartmentimmediately.
