EMERGENCY OPERATIONS CENTER (EOC) ACTIVATION
On Friday, October 11, 2019, the City activated the EOC to monitor the Saddle Ridge Fire and provide assistance to other agencies, if requested. Fortunately, there was no property damage reported in the City and mutual aid was not requested. The EOC activation provided staff with the opportunity to test various emergency systems and procedures to ensure the City is better prepared to respond to emergencies in the future.
As a result of the Saddle Ridge Fire, the Los Angeles County Assessor's Office advised the City that they would be holding a mobile office at the Local Assistance Center, located at the Sylmar Recreation Center to assist to those who lost their property or have suffered damage as a result of the fire.
Click here to visit the City's website for additional information.
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SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA EDISON (SCE) PUBLIC SAFETY POWER SHUTOFFS (PSPS)
Throughout October 2019, SCE advised that due to the forecasted fire weather conditions (windy and dry), they were proactively turning off power in various high risk areas, including the City of San Fernando.
In the early hours of October 30, 2019, portions of San Fernando experienced a loss of power, including several intersections. The EOC was activated, Police Officers were dispatched to control traffic and Public Works staff responded to place stop signs at the effected intersections. Power was restored throughout the City later the same day.
For additional information about SCE's PSPS and other important links and resources, visit the City's Police, Emergency Services & Disaster/Storm Preparedness website:
WWW.SFCITY.ORG.
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DON'T BE A VICTIM OF A SCAM!
Several San Fernando residents have reported that they've received calls from individuals impersonating agencies such as the City of San Fernando, the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (DWP), the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), among others. Don't be a victim of this scam! No legitimate agency will ask for your personal information, or payment over the phone.
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) offers an abundance of information regarding legitimate businesses, as well as an opportunity for consumers to report potential fraud. The BBB also offers a great resource if you are considering donating to a charity, but are doubtful of its legitimacy. Please note: if the charity is not listed, it does not necessarily mean it's not genuine. At your request, the BBB will conduct an evaluation of the charity's legitimacy.
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SAN FERNANDO IS HIRING; JOIN OUR TEAM!
Have you thought about a career where you can be involved in serving the community and helping others? Applications are currently being accepted for full-time
Director of Public Works, Police Officer, as well as for part-time
Public Works Maintenance Helper, Junior Cadet, and
Recreation Leader I and II. Filing deadlines vary for each position.
Visit the City website (
WWW.SFCITY.ORG) to view the job bulletins and download a City Employment Application.
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PRINCIPALS' BRUNCH
The Education Commission hosted their annual Principals’ Brunch on October 25, 2019, at Recreation Park. The goal of this event is to bring together principals from public, private, and charter schools for a brief morning meet and greet. Although some principals could not attend as a result of Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) school closures caused by fires in the region, those that participated enjoyed meeting their colleagues, sharing ideas, and each were given a resource bag that included material pertaining to services available for their schools.
In addition to the principals, invited guests included the Mayor and City Councilmembers, City department representatives, and delegates from the offices of the 29
th Congressional District, LAUSD District 6, San Fernando Library, Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District, and the new San Fernando Child and Family Center. Councilmember Robert Gonzales made a presentation regarding the 2020 Census and explained the critical importance of each household completing the online survey.
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STUDENT OF THE MONTH
The Student of the Month program was implemented by the Education Commission to allow principals and school leaders to nominate San Fernando students based on a monthly category. Students are recognized at the City Council meetings, may lead the Pledge of Allegiance, and are rewarded with a donation made possible by local businesses. For October 2019, students from the Academy of Scientific Exploration and Social Justice Humanitas Academy were recognized under the Leadership category and were given a gift certificate from Horchateria Rio Luna in San Fernando. Congratulations Asyln and Brenda!
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EARLY RESULTS ARE IN: COMMUNITY INPUT ON VISION FOR DOWNTOWN
The community has shared important community input on a Vision for Downtown San Fernando. On September 24, 2019, more than 40 community members gathered at San Fernando Library to share their ideas and vision for Downtown San Fernando. The City and Ken Hira, the City’s economic development advisor, facilitated as the community shared what uses would be needed and desired in San Fernando’s downtown.
Community input was provided via a question and answer segment, comment card, Facebook Live comments, and an online survey. A total of 27 comment cards and 39 comments via Facebook Live were collected that evening. An additional 13 online survey responses were received, for an overall total of 79 comment responses received.
Comments expressed a range of desired uses with retail and restaurants being the most desired. Entertainment was also a highly preferred use. Hospitality and residential uses were indicated as generally needed or desired uses though not as strongly as retail uses. Overall, there was positive feedback for a mixed commercial-residential project for the opportunity site at City Parking Lot No. 3, located off San Fernando Blvd., between Celis St. and Pico St. See table below for a summary of comment responses.
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You can view the presentation and submit your comments online at the City’s website (
WWW.SFCITY.ORG). You can also view the recording of the community meeting via Facebook Live (
@TheCityOfSanFernando).
Next steps include the City releasing a request for proposals, reviewing proposal responses and conducting future community input meetings to vet proposals. Stay tuned for more.
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PLANNING AND PRESERVATION COMMISSION
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- Recognizing the contributions of outgoing Vice Chair Yvonne Mejia Pena: Ms. Mejia Pena served on the Commission since December 2012, and served as its Vice Chair throughout 2019. Staff thanks her for serving her community as a Commissioner and wishes her the best of luck with future endeavors.
- Welcome new Planning and Preservation Commissioner Marvin Perez: The newest Planning and Preservation Commissioner was appointed by City Council on October 21, 2019. Staff is excited to have him join the Commission.
- Next Commission Meeting: The Commission will be dark for the month of November 2019. The next regularly monthly meeting is scheduled for Monday, December 9. 2019
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COMMUNITY PRESERVATION STATISTICS, JULY 2018 TO SEPTEMBER 2019
Data provided below describes efforts in code enforcement and graffiti abatement for Fiscal Year 2018-2019 to date and Fiscal Year 2019-2020 to date.
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MEASURE A
On September 16, 2019, staff presented the annual Measure A report that provides a summary on how Measure A revenues were spent in the prior fiscal year. Copies of the current and past reports are available on the City's website (
http://ci.san-fernando.ca.us/finance/financial-documents/).
A "Frequently Asked Questions" pamphlet is also available on the City's website that provides additional detail on the background and use of Measure A revenue.
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SIGN UP FOR AUTOPAY FOR YOUR WATER BILL
Simplify your life and avoid late fees at the same time by signing up for AutoPay and have your Water Bill debited directly from your account automatically. There is no charge to you from the City, but some financial institutions may charge a fee for electronic fund transfers (ask your bank regarding any possible fees). You may also pay your Water Bill in person at City Hall; acceptable payment methods include cash, check, and debit card ($1.50 processing fee for debit card transactions). For more details, contact the Finance Department at 818.898.1245.
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FINANCIAL REPORTS
As a reminder, all of the City's financial reports, including annual budgets, audited financial statements, quarterly sales tax reports, and the Measure A Annual Report can be found under the Finance Department page on the City's website (
WWW.SFCITY.ORG).
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OFFICERS REVIVE SUBJECTS SUFFERING FROM OPIOID OVERDOSE WITH NARCAN
In response to the increasing opioid crisis nationwide, Chief Anthony Vairo (with the assistance of Sergeant Irwin Rosenberg) developed a Narcan protocol for the San Fernando Police Department. Narcan is a treatment for narcotic overdose in an emergency situation.
In August 2019, each Officer was provided training regarding the safe administration of Narcan and subsequently issued two Narcan inhalers. This protocol has already proved invaluable in the fight against opioid overdoses as Officers have revived two citizens since its inception.
On two separate occasions (September 26, 2019 and October 26, 2019, respectively), officers responded to calls regarding a medical emergency. Upon their arrival, Officers determined that the subjects were suffering from the effects of a narcotic overdose. In both situations, the Officers quickly administered the department-issued Narcan and the subjects subsequently revived. Both subjects were transported to local area hospitals for further treatment.
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OFFICERS RECOVER SHOTGUN DURING TRAFFIC STOP
On September 27, 2019, Officers Jonathan Zibli and Brittany Najera observed the driver of a truck flag them down. Upon making contact with the driver, Officers discovered that he may have been under the influence of an unknown substance. They obtained his personal information and determined that he was driving on a suspended license, as well as having an outstanding warrant for his arrest. Prior to impounding the vehicle Officers conducted an inventory and located a loaded .12 gauge shotgun concealed within the center console and seat. The driver admitted to possessing the shotgun for personal protection and was arrested for the outstanding warrant, driving on a suspended license, possession of a gun within a Safe School Zone, and possession of a concealed firearm. Vigilant SFPD officers took another gun off the streets and no doubt prevented a deadly encounter from occurring. Excellent job keeping the San Fernando community safe!
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ARREST FOR DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE (DUI) LEADS TO DISCOVERY OF LARGE AMOUNT OF CASH AND COCAINE
On October 21, 2019, at approximately 1:00 am, Officer Najera stopped a vehicle for expired registration. Upon contacting the driver, she immediately smelled the odor of alcohol emitting from his breath and person. The driver was placed under arrest and during a search a large amount of cocaine and US currency was located in his pockets, as well as additional items that correspond with sales of narcotics in his vehicle. The driver was arrested for DUI and possessing narcotics for sale. Officer Najera took an impaired driver off the streets and prevented a possibly deadly DUI collision from occurring. Awesome job!
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REPORTS OF MAN WITH A KNIFE LEADS TO ARREST
On September 28, 2019, at approximately 11:11 am, Sergeant CJ Chiasson and Officers Daniel Delgado, Mike Delgado, Ernesto Esquivel, and Art Lesmez responded to a report of a man armed with a knife threatening people near the intersection of Hubbard St and San Fernando Rd. As the team arrived, Sergeant Chiasson located the suspect and saw that he was in possession of a large eight-inch chef-style knife and drinking beer. The team recognized that the subject was possibly emotionally disturbed and observed that there were several pedestrians and vehicular traffic in the immediate area.
The team communicated a tactical plan that included both lethal and less lethal force options in order to subdue the subject and eliminate the threat to bystanders and Officers. The subject refused to obey officers' repeated commands to drop the knife and Sergeant Chiasson discharged the bean bag shotgun at the subject causing him to immediately drop the knife. The subject was taken into custody without further incident and transported to a local hospital for care and mental competency evaluation.
Although lethal force was a legal option in this situation, the quick thinking of the team in addition to their tactical proficiency, enabled a dangerous individual in need of mental health services to be taken into custody without further injury to himself or others. Outstanding demonstration of calm and restraint by the Officers during a very tense and critical incident.
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TRAFFIC/PARKING CITATION UPDATE
The Police Department's Traffic Division enforces the City's street traffic regulations and all state vehicle laws applicable to street traffic in the City; make arrests for traffic violations; investigate traffic accidents; cooperate with the City Engineer and other City officers in the administration of the traffic laws and in developing ways and means to improve traffic conditions; and carry out those duties specifically imposed upon such division by the City traffic ordinances.
Data provided below describes efforts in traffic and parking enforcement during September 2019 and October 2019.
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INTERIM PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR APPOINTED
The City of San Fernando is pleased to announce the appointment of Martin Pastucha as the new Interim Director of Public Works. His first day with the City was November 4, 2019.
Martin comes with 37 years of experience in local government, public works initiatives, public transportation, and light rail segments, bridge projects, roadway and street infrastructure projects, having held the following prior positions: Public Works Director with the cities of Redmond, Wa., Pasadena and La Habra; Director of Public Works/Airport with the City of Santa Monica, Director; Special Advisor for Management Partners; and various leadership roles in the Public Works Division of the League of California Cities.
In addition to holding a B.S. in Business Admin from Cal State Long Beach and Master in Public Admin from Cal State San Bernardino, Martin is an active member of the American Public Works Association. He also served on the League of California Cities Board of Directors and the Caltrans Local Assistance Advisory Panel. Currently, Martin serves on the Board of Directors of Greenroads International, an independent 501(c) (3) dedicated to advancing sustainable transportation education and initiatives in the US and Internationally.
Join the City of San Fernando in welcoming Martin!
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UPDATE ON GLENOAKS BLVD WATER/SEWER PROJECT
The City is at it again, making a difference in our community by improving the sewer and water infrastructure. The contractor is currently working on replacing sewer main on Glenoaks Blvd from Harding Ave to Orange Grove Ave. Approximately 1,500 linear feet of sewer main have been replaced. Once this area is complete, the contractor will remove and replace sidewalk, driveway approaches, and curb ramps on Glenoaks Blvd from Harding Ave to Orange Grove Ave. Construction is tentatively scheduled to be completed December 2019.
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TIMING FOR GLENOAKS BLVD RECONSTRUCTION PROJECT
On August 28, 2019, the City Clerk opened four bids for the Glenoaks Blvd Street Resurfacing and Highway Safety Improvement Project and staff has completed analyzing bids. This project consists of roadway resurfacing, construction of concrete medians, and traffic signal modifications. Award of Project will be presented for City Council consideration on November 18, 2019. The Project is tentatively scheduled to commence construction in early 2020.
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ANNUAL STREET RESURFACING PROJECT
The City’s contractor, Excel Paving Co., completed the installation of water services along N. Lazard St between Fourth St and Glenoaks Blvd. Currently, the contractor is installing new water services on Alexander St between Fifth St and Glenoaks Blvd. New water main installation on N. Workman St between Glenoaks Blvd and Seventh St is scheduled to begin in late November 2019.
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RECREATION & COMMUNITY SERVICES
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HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING
Save the date for this holiday tradition that is held on Brand Boulevard between San Fernando Road and Celis. The evening features entertainment, face painting, and crafts for young people. Of course, all ages will be welcome to take a photo with our special invited guest, Mr. Claus, who has already confirmed his visit. Pre-r
egistration will be available soon via the CIty's website (
WWW.SFCITY.ORG
).
December 5, 2019 | 6 pm to 9 pm
Brand Blvd
(between San Fernando Rd and Celis St)
818.898.1290
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DIA DE LOS MUERTOS HEALTHY SAN FERNANDO 5K RUN/WALK AND CULTURAL ARTS FESTIVAL
The annual Dia de los Muertos Healthy San Fernando 5K Run/Walk and Cutural Arts Festival held on November 2, 2019, at Recreation Park, was a great success! The morning was filled with lots of excitement, laughter, sunshine and cool air as City officials, staff, community partners and volunteers greeted participants and special guests, coordinated onsite registration, distributed t-shirt and swag bags, passed out water on the race trail, cheered on participants throughout the race, and helped with countless other tasks that contributed to the success of the race.
This year's race drew 799 participants, including: 540 individual runners, 61 relay teams (183 runners), and 76 participants for the Kids Fun Run. Combining the race with Dia de los Muertos added a wonderful cultural flare to this event with 15 beautiful alters on display in remembrance of loved ones. In addition, there were 34 booths composed of art exhibits, vendors, face painting, children’s workshops and great entertainment that made for an enjoyable family fun day. The City looks forward to next year’s event with a goal of continuing to offer healthy, fun and safe family events for all to enjoy.
Click the below link to view photos from this amazing event!
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YOUTH SPORTS
- Tiny Tykes Soccer: The program began the week of October 28, 2019, at Las Palmas Park. This clinic-style program serves children ages 4 to 6, meeting twice each week and alternating indoor and outdoor instruction focusing on the fundamental of soccer. Registration will be through November 15, 2019.
- Youth Basketball: Registration is on going, $5 off discount expires November 15, 2019. Player assessments are scheduled for November 19, 2019 and November 20, 2019, at Recreation Park.
Contact Recreation Park for more information: 818.898.1290.
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FITNESS
The All Inclusive Zumba class hosted a free Halloween Dance Party on October 30, 2019 at Recreation Park. Participants were encouraged to come dressed in their Halloween costumes and enjoy the DJ, photo booth and costume contest. Instructor Leilani Ayson hopes these monthly themed classes will help bring awareness to the community about inclusion of individuals with limited mobility and special needs in everyday activities.
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COMMUNITY CLEAN-UP
In partnership with the Office of Senate Majority Leader Robert Hertzberg, City staff participated in a Community Clean-Up on October 19, 2019. Approximately 15 volunteers including PUC School students, local business owner of Rooter Hero and family, and other community members did a great job of clearing out foliage and other debris along the Mission City Trail.
Look for future Community Clean-Up events in order to do your part to beautify our community! Participants are eligible to earn service hours for volunteering. For details call Las Palmas Park at 818.898.7340.
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LOS ANGELES REGIONAL FOOD BANK
The Los Angeles Regional Food Bank held its monthly distribution on October 7, 2019, for seniors who meet the eligibility criteria. In order to expand nutrition education efforts, the Food Bank sponsored a nutritionist who provided a cooking demo and delicious food samples utilizing the packaged food items provided by the Food Bank. Approximately 120 food packages were distributed.
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LAYNE PARK FAMILY RESOURCE FAIR AND MOVIE AT THE PARK
- On September 27, 2019, Layne Park hosted a Family Resource Fair and Movie at the Park. Participants dressed up as their favorite superhero and participated in a costume contest. Families brought out lawnchairs and enjoyed watching the featured movie - Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse.
- On October 5, 2019, Layne Park hosted a Train Like a Superhero event. Kids ranging from 4 to 14 years of age went through four different exercise training sessions teaching them the importance of being active. Approximately 25 kids worked together as a team and supported each other as they crawled, jumped, and flipped through the exercises. Healthy snacks were provided midway through the event to teach the importance of staying hydrated and refueling by eating the right type of foods. NEV Best Start Community co-sponsored the event and provided resources for the parents. Families were also able to register their children to participate in the Dia de Los Muertos 5K run/walk event.
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NATIONAL PARKS WORKSHOP
What are National Parks? What is National Park Conservation Association working on currently? Learn why it is so important for YOU to be involved in YOUR community and speak up for parks. For more information, call 818.898.7340.
November 13, 2019
5 pm to 7:30 pm
Las Palmas Park
505 S. Huntington St, San Fernando
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Visit our website for a full listing of Public Meetings, City Hall Hours, and Special Events.
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VISIT, FOLLOW AND LIKE US!
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