live locally
TOWN OF DANVILLE
QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER
Message from the Town Council
As we welcome the beauty of spring, it's a good time to remember that maintaining Danville's beauty is a responsibility we all share. All property owners contribute to the current Lighting and Landscape Assessment District (LLAD) to fund essential services that ensure Danville remains a safe, well-maintained, and welcoming community. While LLAD fees have remained flat for more than 20 years, Town expenses for maintenance have risen 78% — creating a funding gap that could affect the quality of our parks, street lights, landscaping and facilities. This year, the Town is taking steps to close that gap with an updated LLAD. Property owners will soon receive ballots to vote on an adjustment for these amenities. If approved, the updated assessment will ensure the Town can continue providing the level of maintenance and quality residents expect.
For most single family households, an average increase of less than $90 for this yearly assessment would help avoid cuts to Town programs and services. Learn more about the proposed LLAD adjustment in this issue. You’ll also find details on upcoming events, including the return of Lend a Hand Day, Bike to Work Day, and a season full of art, recreation, and community connection. We look forward to a vibrant season ahead.
Osage Station Park
FUNDING OUR OF LIFE
KEEPING PACE WITH RISING COSTS
Costs for just about everything have gone up since 2003, but LLAD assessments have remained flat. The 2025 LLAD initiative will ask property owners to help keep pace with rising costs.*
CAST YOUR VOTE: Ballots will be mailed to property owners in April
* Based on FY 2003/04 & FY 2023/24 actual Town
The Lighting and Landscape Assessment District (LLAD) provides funding for parks, street lights, landscaping, and public facilities. Every property owner in Danville contributes to this important fund, which is facing a shortfall after no fee increases for more than 20 years.
FUNDINGFOR
What does my vote mean?
Dedicated funding of approximately $1.4 million to keep pace with rising maintenance costs.
Funding would continue to be drawn from general fund programs and services.
How much am I paying now and what is my adjusted rate?
Single-family homeowners pay $108-305 per year, and the adjusted total range would be $219-$329 per year
The current rate and proposed adjusted rate will be on each property owner’s ballot.
What about property tax?
LLAD shows up on your property tax bill (as Danville STLT), it is not linked to property taxes. For a property worth $1,000,000 the Town general fund receives just $700 of the $10,000 property tax assessed by the County.
What is the Town doing to make up for the LLAD shortfall?
Before considering an adjustment, the Town has cut costs as much as possible through energy efficient lighting initiatives and reducing water use for landscaping.
Has the Town cut programs or services to cover the gap?
Not yet, but the contribution to the LLAD fund from the general fund has increased 607% since 2003 — not sustainable without an adjustment to either assessments or services
HOW TO VOTE:
April: LLAD Ballots Mailed
May: Ballot Period Closes
June: Results Declared
Imagine making the same salary you did 20 years ago. How would that impact your quality of life?
On average, that would be about half of what you make today. The Town maintenance budget is facing this scenario, with funding from a source that hasn’t increased to keep up with rising costs of the past 20 years.
Danville property owners pay an annual assessment that directly and specifically is earmarked by law to fund public parks, lighting, landscaping, and public facilities through the Lighting and Landscape Assessment District (LLAD). Parks for recreation, street lighting for safety, and community spaces for gathering – these are part of the fabric of our community, and these amenities rely on LLAD funding.
The last LLAD increase was in 2003, and now the Town is seeking an adjustment to sustain the quality of these services. LLAD funds are restricted by state law to fund only these amenities, so the general fund has covered the increasing gap, supplementing the LLAD fund by $1.35 million in fiscal year 2023/24.
continued on Page 4
How much more will I pay?
$0 increase
2003-2024 Single Family Average Annual Rate Adjustment 2025
average $87 increase
Single-family homeowners will be asked to approve an adjustment with an average increase of $87 for this yearly assessment. After more than 20 years without an increase, this adjustment will have a direct impact on LLAD-funded amenities for quality of life, safety, and property values.
Each property ballot will include the current and proposed rate, which will roughly range from a reduction of $50 to an increase of $150.
DANVILLE INTRODUCES AI-POWERED CHATBOT
The Town of Danville is embracing artificial intelligence to enhance customer service with the launch of Auggie Answers, an AI-powered chatbot now available on the Town’s website. Named after the Town’s mascot, Auggie Answers provides quick, user-friendly responses to community inquiries.
Chatbots offer a more personalized search experience compared to traditional website searches, which often return an overwhelming number of results. With over 600 pages of content, navigating Danville’s website can sometimes be challenging. Auggie Answers can understand natural language and deliver relevant responses.
Town staff monitor questions and responses. To try Auggie Answers, visit www.danville.ca.gov and click the Auggie Answers icon on the bottom right.
2025 LIGHTING & LANDSCAPE ASSESSMENT DISTRICT
SMALL CHANGES
big impact
continued from Page 3
To avoid cuts to general fund programs, the Town is proposing an adjusted LLAD following extensive analysis. The proposed 2025 LLAD would reduce a $2.38 million maintenance and operations shortfall by more than half in the first year. Without increasing assessments for this special fund, the general fund must cover the gap. Property owners can prepare for the April LLAD ballot by visiting www.danville.ca.gov/llad.
learn more
Get Ready to Vote: Look for LLAD facts throughout this newsletter. You can also visit www.danville.ca.gov/llad to learn more and ask questions directly to Town staff.
D I D YOUKNOW?
BIKE TO WORK DAY
May
is National Bike Month, and on May 15, cyclists across the country will celebrate Bike to Work Day. This annual event encourages individuals to start their workday with fresh air and exercise while promoting a healthier, more sustainable mode of transportation. Participants can enjoy the camaraderie of fellow cyclists and visit various Energizer Stations along their routes, where they'll find free goodies and snacks to fuel their ride.
In Contra Costa County, 40 Energizer Stations will be set up to welcome riders with free canvas totes, refreshments, and an abundance of good vibes. Whether you're an everyday cyclist or trying bike commuting for the first time, everyone is invited to join in on the fun. This year marks the 30th
anniversary of Bike to Work Day, making it a perfect opportunity to grab your bike, invite a friend, and pedal your way to work. Learn more at
LLAD funds help maintain 60 acres of median and roadside landscaping, making bike rides beautiful.
News briefs from the Town of Danville
WEED ABATEMENT
To help prevent the spread of wildfires, the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District requires property owners to comply with the Exterior Hazard Abatement program by June 1. This program ensures that overgrown grasses, weeds, shrubbery, and trees are cleared to minimize fire hazards and protect the community. Now is the perfect time to start your property weed abatement, to avoid citations. For more information on enforcement and abatement standards, visit www.firedepartment.org/abatement.
DANVILLE CONNECT
TOWN TALKS WITH THE MAYOR
Town Talks with the Mayor has returned with a new format of short videos hosted by Mayor Reneé Morgan. Videos will be shared on the Town’s social media and the Danville Town Talks website, where residents can find updates, comment, and suggest topics. Follow @DanvilleCAgov or visit www.danvilletowntalks.org/mayor to stay up to date.
EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR:
LESLIE EDDY Accounting Technician
YOUKNOW?
D I D
Danville Connect is your go-to online tool for efficiently reporting issues and concerns to Town staff. This user-friendly platform allows residents to quickly submit information about various matters, ensuring that your voice is heard, and action can be taken. For added convenience, you can download the Danville Connect app for your iPhone or Android device, making it even easier to stay connected with the Town. Learn more at www.danville.ca.gov/danvilleconnect.
FIND THE PERFECT VENUE
Looking for the perfect venue for your next event? From weddings and celebrations to meetings and performances, Danville offers a variety of beautiful and versatile rental spaces. Whether you need a charming outdoor setting, a spacious banquet hall, or a historic theatre, there’s a space to fit your needs. Explore all available venues and book your event today at www.danville.ca.gov/rentals.
funds keep
2025LLAD
DOG PARK UPDATE
The Canine Corral Dog Park at Hap Magee Ranch Park reopened March 1 with newly laid turf. To maintain its quality, the Canine Corral closes every Tuesday until noon for upkeep, including mowing, irrigation repairs, and weed abatement. This weekly closure also helps extend the turf’s lifespan. The park closes during inclement weather, so check the Sports Field and Dog Park Conditions page for updates: www.danville.ca.gov/fields.
Danville’s Employee of the Year, Leslie Eddy, has made a lasting impact on the Town through her dedication, organizational skills, and passion for community. She began her career with the Town in 2012 as a Police Department Assistant, later working in roles at the Senior Center and Human Resources. In 2017, Leslie found her true calling in Finance, where she enjoys helping others understand complex financial information.
Leslie is also a key member of the WOW (Working on Wellness) Committee, which promotes wellness and inclusivity among Town staff. Through the committee, she helps organize various events that foster a sense of connection and community amongst the employees.
A Danville resident for 33 years, Leslie enjoys spending time with her family and recently traveled with her daughter on a European adventure. She is also passionate about photography and capturing the beauty of the community she loves.
Leslie’s commitment to her work and community makes her an invaluable part of the Danville team. The Town of Danville is proud to recognize her as Employee of the Year.
LLAD
the Canine Corral Dog Park looking "fetching."
JOIN DANVILLE’S SUMMER 2025 TEAM!
The Town of Danville is hiring seasonal staff for aquatics and summer camps. Positions include Swim Instructors/ Lifeguards, Senior Guards, Pool Managers, Counselors, Site Leaders, and Site Managers.
• Aquatics season: June 16–August 1, with training June 9–13.
• Summer Camp season: June 16–August 1, with training June 10–13.
Apply now at calopps.org/town-of-danville. Camp applications close May 17. Aquatics positions remain open until filled.
HELPING SENIORS, STRENGTHENING COMMUNITY
The Town of Danville is calling on volunteers to roll up their sleeves and make a difference at the Lend a Hand Day Saturday, April 26. This annual tradition brings the community together to assist local seniors with yard work, helping them maintain their homes while fostering connections across generations. Volunteer spots are open now for this rewarding event.
For many seniors, keeping up with outdoor maintenance can be a challenge. By lending a hand, volunteers provide much-needed support while brightening the day of older residents who appreciate both the assistance and the friendly conversation. Tasks include raking leaves, weeding, spreading mulch, and other essential outdoor upkeep.
Volunteers aged 16 and older are encouraged to sign up, while those aged 12 and up can participate if accompanied by an adult. Participants can choose between a partial shift from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. or a full day from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Whether you stay for a few hours or the entire event, your efforts will make a meaningful impact in our community.
Lend a Hand Day is not only a great way to give back but also a chance to enjoy the fresh air, work alongside neighbors, and contribute to the well-being of the Town’s senior residents. Gather friends, family, or coworkers and be part of this rewarding community effort!
For more information or to sign up, call 925-314-3430 or visit www.danville. ca.gov/volunteer.
BREAKING RULES EXHIBITION:
April 12 through June 13, Opening Reception April 12 from 5 to 7 p.m.
This exhibition showcases artists who dig deeply through layers of paint application and collage to arrive at new solutions. Quite simply, the artists’ work consists of perpetually breaking established rules. Every blank canvas presents a mystery and, in a sense, a battlefield. These artists paint, layer and excavate, continually responding to an inner quest for understanding a kind of synthesis. They seek new order.
GET READY FOR A SEASON OF FUN:
DANVILLE’S SPRING EVENTS AND SUMMER CAMPS
Asthe days grow longer and the weather warms up, now is the perfect time to get involved in the Town’s exciting lineup of events and programs. Whether you’re looking for creative activities, outdoor fun, or family-friendly celebrations, there’s something for everyone this season!
Kick off the spring festivities with Eggstravaganza April 19, a beloved annual tradition that brings families together for a day of Easter-related fun. This event features multiple egg hunts, ensuring there’s a perfect hunt for every age group. Children will also have the chance to explore their creativity with craft stations, where they can make their own festive decorations. With plenty of games, activities, and a visit from the Spring Bunny, this event is ideal for little ones ages 1 to 9 to celebrate the arrival of spring.
CALL FOR ARTISTS OPENS MARCH 3
The Town of Danville invites all creative artists to submit works for its 15th Annual Juried Exhibition, Art in Miniature. From statues to paintings and sketches, the creativity is endless with miniature art. This exhibition opens July 12.
5:30 p.m. invites Jedi and Sith alike to engage in themed games and activities — take photos with iconic characters, and even show off your best lightsaber moves. Whether you’re a fan of the original trilogy or the latest adventures, this event promises a day full of fun and a galaxy of memories.
Unleash your creativity at Art in the Park at Oak Hill Park May 17. This outdoor experience is perfect for kids ages 5 to 10, offering a variety of activities that let young artists explore their imagination. Whether it’s painting, drawing, or creating colorful masterpieces, children can express themselves while surrounded by the natural beauty of the park.
LLAD funds maintain more than 200 acres of parkland, including 5 community parks.
Calling all Star Wars fans! The Danville Community Center is the place to be for the May the 4th Be with You event, a celebration of all things Star Wars. This gathering on Sunday, May 4 from 4 to
Later in the year, Danville summer camps offer a variety of enriching experiences for kids of all ages. From traditional day camps with games, arts & crafts, and outdoor adventures to specialty camps focused on sports, performing arts, and science, there’s a camp for every interest.
Don't wait to dive into all this fun! Now is the time to plan your spring and summer in Danville. Whether you’re signing up for a camp, attending a special event, or exploring local arts and culture, there are endless opportunities to connect, create, and have fun. For more details and to register, visit www.danville.ca.gov/recguide.
California’s Daylighting Law:
IMPROVING PEDESTRIAN AND CYCLIST SAFETY
California has introduced a new law aimed at improving safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers alike: Assembly Bill 413, also known as the Daylighting Law. This law prohibits parking within 20 feet of any marked or unmarked crosswalk, regardless of whether curbs are painted red. For crosswalks with curb extensions, the clear distance is 15 feet.
Before AB 413, California was one of only 10 states without a law restricting parking near crosswalks, despite high rates of pedestrian injuries and fatalities.
The law allows cities to implement a pedestrian safety measure called
WHY DAYLIGHTING?
daylighting, which improves visibility for pedestrians and cyclists crossing the street, as well as for drivers approaching intersections.
With daylighting, pedestrians and cyclists no longer have to inch into intersections to see past parked cars. Drivers also benefit, as clearer sight lines allow them to spot pedestrians waiting to cross well before reaching an intersection. This is especially important for identifying children, who may otherwise be hidden behind parked cars.
In addition to daylighting, proper street lighting is essential for neighborhood safety, particularly at night. Thanks to
funding from the Lighting and Landscape Assessment District (LLAD), our community benefits from well-lit streets that help reduce accidents and improve overall visibility. By supporting the installation and maintenance of streetlights, the LLAD ensures that both pedestrians and drivers can navigate safely, even in lowlight conditions.
Together, the Daylighting Law and the LLAD contribute to a safer Danville, helping to prevent accidents and create a more pedestrian-friendly community.
The goal of the new law is to improve safety by increasing visibility at intersections. Vehicles that are parked immediately adjacent to marked or unmarked crossings limit the visibility of pedestrians, which increases the risk of pedestrian-related sever injury or fatalities. Removing the obstruction of parked vehicles will allow drivers to have a clear view of pedestrians waiting to cross the street while, at the same time, allowing pedestrians to see approaching cars without having to step into the intersection to see past a parked vehicle before crossing.
WHAT IS THE DAYLIGHTING LAW?
CA Assembly Bill 413 prohibits the stopping, standing, or parking of a vehicle within 20 feet of the vehicle approach side of any unmarked or marked crosswalk, or 15 feet of any crosswalk where a curb extension is present. As of January 1, 2025, drivers may receive a citation for violating this law.
HOW DOES DAYLIGHTING WORK?
Leaving a clearance of 20 feet provides a greater field of visibility (scenarios 3 and 4), whereas not providing that clearance greatly reduces visibility (scenarios 1 and 2). Increased visibility helps drivers see pedestrians clearly.
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
Leave at least 20 feet between your vehicle and a painted or unpainted crosswalk. For crosswalks with curb extensions, as shown on the right, leave 15 feet. When in doubt, leave at least one full, large car length between your car and the crosswalk.
Imagine this...
It’s a beautiful morning in Danville. The sun is shining, the air is crisp, and you’re ready to explore all the charm our Town has to offer. You grab your phone, open the new walking tour app, Discover Danville, and set out on a journey to discover the hidden gems of our community. The app is web-based and has information on restaurants, retail, and historic sites around Danville.
Morning:
Sip & Dive into Danville’s Story
If you’re not sure where to start, open up Discover Danville and toggle over to “Early Bites”. Your day can begin downtown at your favorite coffee shop with a freshly brewed latte or a full hearty breakfast.
After breakfast, you might enjoy a stroll through some of the “Historic Sites," a smattering of fascinating landmarks you may have passed a hundred times but never really noticed. The app shares engaging stories about Danville’s past, from its early days to the present.
Midday:
Savor the Flavors
It’s lunchtime, and the app gives you options for “Quick Bites” and “Full Service." You consider picking up something to take home but ultimately decide to stay and enjoy the ambiance a bit longer. As you lounge on an outdoor patio with a delicious meal, you reminisce on all that you love about living in Danville.
Feeling refreshed, you decide to explore the dining section of the app further for dinner ideas. A new spot you’ve been meaning to try catches your eye, and you make a reservation with a quick tap through to the restaurant website from the app.
Evening: A Perfect Finish
As the day winds down, it's time for your dinner reservation. Danville’s reputation as a foodie paradise does not disappoint, and the friendly atmosphere reminds you of why you love living in Danville.
Before heading home, you take one last stroll through downtown, reflecting on the delightful day you just spent in downtown. You share some photos on social media, highlighting favorite parts from the day and tagging your stops to spread the word about Danville’s gems.
With Discover Danville, every day can be an adventure. Whether you’re exploring for the first time or rediscovering old favorites, this app makes it easy to support local businesses, learn about our history, and fall in love with Danville all over again. So, what are you waiting for? Go to www.danville.ca.gov/DiscoverDanville, step outside, and let it guide you on your own unforgettable day in Danville. Let’s walk, discover, and support our community—together!
D I D
More than 3,500 street lights are lit and maintained with LLAD funds, lighting the way for safety.
Abbott Chiropractic
425 El Pintado Rd. #155 www.drbridgetabbottdc.com
The Animal Wellness Center of Danville
671 San Ramon Valley Blvd. www.awcdanville.com
Canyon Club Brewery
206 Sycamore Valley Rd. W. www.instagram.com/ canyonclubdanville
Current Salon
585 Hartz Ave. www.currentsalon.co
Diablo Psychology
185 Front St. #107B www.diablopsychology.com
Footwear Etc.
294 Railroad Ave. www.footwearetc.com
Hawaii Fluid Art
3478 Camino Tassajara Rd Ste C www.hawaiifluidart.com/danville-ca
Just Food For Dogs
814 Sycamore Valley Rd. W. www.justfoodfordogs.com/ store/814-sycamore-valley-rd-wdanville-ca-94526.html
Renewed Relationships Counseling Group
822 Hartz Way Ste 215 www.therapywithstephanie.com
Richa Bhatia, M.D. Inc. 425 El Pintado Rd. #120 www.richabhatiamdinc.com
Rolling Suds of San RamonDanville
696 San Ramon Valley Blvd. Ste. 322 www.rollingsudspowerwashing. com/san-ramon-danville/
San Ramon Piano 730 Camino Ramon, Suite #180 www.sanramonpiano.com
$100 DIGITAL MARKETING GRANTS:
Applications for 2025 Business Promotion Grants are now open. In addition to encouraging collaborative events to promote businesses, this year we've added a digital marketing grant for individual businesses. More
TELL THE TOWN: LET US SHARE YOUR BUSINESS NEWS
The Town's social media channels are the place to be if you want to find out about new businesses, local deals, and special events. And if you are a Danville business owner, you can tell the Town about your business news so we can share it! Just email business@danville.ca.gov or tag the Town in social media posts: @DanvilleCaGov on Facebook and Instagram.
Want to know what is happening in the local Danville business community? Or are you a local business owner with news to share? Be sure to follow us on social media to see business birthdays, special promotions and events, and new businesses, of course!
Footwear Etc.
Town of Danville
500 La Gonda Way
Danville, CA 94526-1740
Postal Customer
Upcoming Community Events
Visit www.danville.ca.gov/calendar for more information.
CALL FOR ARTISTS:
ART IN MINIATURE
Through May 3, more information at www.danville.ca.gov/arts
ARTISTS' OPENING RECEPTION FOR BREAKING RULES EXHIBITION
Saturday, April 12, 5 to 7 p.m.
Village Theatre & Art Gallery
BREAKING RULES EXHIBITION
April 12-June 13
Village Theatre & Art Gallery
EGGSTRAVAGANZA
Saturday, April 19, 9:15 a.m. to 1:15 p.m.
Town Green & Danville Community Center
SHOPS & HOPS
Thursday, April 24, 6 to 9 p.m.
Historic Downtown
LEND A HAND DAY
Saturday, April 26, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Starting at the Danville Senior Center
RIDGE HIKE FOR PREVENTION
Sunday, April 27, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Start/Finish: 205 Railroad Avenue
MAY THE 4TH BE WITH YOU
Sunday, May 4, 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Danville Community Center
DEVIL MOUNTAIN RUN
Sunday, May 4, 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.
Historic Downtown
INTERFAITH EARTHFEST
Sunday, May 4th, 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
St. Timothy’s, 1550 Diablo Road
SPRING SIP & STROLL
Thursday, May 8, 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Historic Downtown
SHA’MIL CELEBRATIONS
Saturday, May 10, 4 to 9 p.m.
Danville Community Center
BIKE TO WORK DAY
Thursday, May 15
Energizer Station on Iron Horse Trail in Lunardi’s parking lot
NATIONAL PIZZA PARTY DAY!
Friday, May 16, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Danville Senior Center
ART IN THE PARK
Saturday, May 17, 1 to 3 p.m.
Oak Hill Park Picnic Tables
SWEARING IN CEREMONY
Sunday, May 18
Town Green
KIDS DAY OUT
May 23, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Hap Magee Ranch Park
MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY
Monday, May 26, 10:30 a.m.
All Wars Memorial at Oak Hill Park
A TASTE OF DANVILLE
Tuesday, June 3
Historic Downtown
MOONLIGHT MOVIES
Friday, June 13 and 27 6:30 to 10 p.m.
Town Green
KIDCHELLA
Wednesday, June 18, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Town Green
MUSIC IN THE PARK
Saturday, June 21, 6 to 8 p.m.
Oak Hill Park
KIWANIS–DANVILLE
4 TH OF JULY PARADE
Friday, July 4, 2025
9 a.m.–Noon, Downtown Danville
