On Tuesday, December 19, 2023, the City unveiled the newly transformed Recreation Park! This project will allow the collection of runoff from three storm drains, remove any impurities from the water and convey it to an underground system to be infiltrated. This project will protect local water bodies like the Pacoima Wash and Los Angeles River from impurities while also supporting groundwater recharge for the San Fernando groundwater basin, which provides water for the City of Los Angeles. The project will also reduce the impact of heavy rain in San Fernando. The park is now open for all to enjoy.

The San Fernando City Council established a Recreation Scholarship Program (RSP) to provide financial assistance to families wishing to participate in the fee base programs offered to San Fernando residents. RSP assistance is available to San Fernando residents for all recreational programs offered by the Recreation and Community Services Department, including programs for youth, adults, and seniors. Scholarships cover 50% of the cost of the activity.

To be eligible for RSP assistance you must be a resident of the City of San Fernando. Assistance is available on a first-come, first-serve basis. A brief self-certifying form and a utility bill must be submitted to the Department when registering for any fee base activity. For additional information and eligibility requirements regarding RSP please call (818) 898-1290 or visit:

SFCITY.ORG/SFRecreation/#Scholarships.

Congratulations to the Pickleball Holiday Tournament winners!

Grab your paddles and join the fun on Tuesday nights at Las Palmas Park from 5-9pm. Free lesson from 5:30 pm to 6:30pm, followed by open play. 

This year’s Santa’s Workshop at the Holiday Tree Lighting event marked the culminating monthly activity offered at the Lopez Adobe. At the beginning of 2023, RCS staff began to program the house on a monthly basis offering tours and activities that aligned with the San Fernando Outdoor Market in an effort to draw more attention to the historic home. The adobe was the perfect setting for photos with Santa and activities this holiday season.

Tours will resume on Sunday, February 25, 2024, and Sunday, March 24, 2024, from 1 pm to 4 pm both days.

Beginning in April 2024, tours and monthly activities will revert to Saturday evenings, stay tuned for an updated calendar of events. 

Teens for a Better Community (TBC) had a successful December 2023 meeting with the participation of 18 teens. A yummy holiday meal was sponsored by Vice-Mayor Mary Mendoza, with a special presentation on Healthy Living by the Alzheimer's Association California Southland Chapter.

TBC's next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, January 24, 2024, from 6 pm to 7:30 pm, at Las Palmas Park.

SENIOR MEALS

In partnership with ONEgeneration, Las Palmas Park continues to host the Elderly Nutrition Program (ENP) for seniors. Stop by and register with the ONEgeneration team, Rene and Hayle, and enjoy a delicious and nutritious hot meal! Folks that are 60+ can qualify for this free program (suggested donation is $3), Mondays through Fridays. If you know of anyone that is 60+ and is homebound, ONEgeneration can deliver hot meals five days a week! Please call (818) 898-7340 for more information. 

LOS ANGELES REGIONAL FOOD BANK

The Regional Food Bank monthly distribution was held on January 5, 2024, at Las Palmas Park, from 9:00 am to 11:00 am. This program continues to serve seniors age 60+ on a monthly basis at Las Palmas Park. This drive-through food program provides a free food kit containing nutritious items such as meats, canned fruits and vegetables, cereals and grains. The program serves an average of 150 seniors monthly. The next distribution will held on February 5, 2024. For more information on food assistance programs please contact Las Palmas Park at (818) 898-7340.  

The Recreation and Community Services Department is starting off the year with a bang!

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2023; APPROXIMATELY 9:20 PM

An Officer observed four subjects on gas-powered mini bikes who were performing wheelies, impeding traffic, and failing to stop for traffic lights on Eighth Street and Arroyo Avenue. The Officer initiated a traffic enforcement stop on the motorcyclists; however, one of the motorcyclists failed to yield. A pursuit ensued and one subject was subsequently arrested for evading.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2023; APPROXIMATELY 8:35 PM

An Officer responded to a domestic violence investigation at Providence Holy Cross Hospital. The victim’s nose had been broken. At about 12:30 am, the suspect turned himself in at the Police Station. He was subsequently arrested for corporal injury to a spouse.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2023; APPROXIMATELY 3;52 PM

An Officer responded to a call of an intoxicated female causing a disturbance in the 1200 block of Warren Street. The suspect was later arrested for resisting arrest.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2023; APPROXIMATELY 2;50 AM

An Officer conducted a traffic stop in the 900 block of First Street, that was related to an investigation of harassing 911 phone calls. The subject attempted to flee and was subsequently arrested for threatening a police officer and making harassing phone calls to 911.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2023; APPROXIMATELY 1:50 PM

An Officer responded to a theft investigation in the 1100 block of Arroyo Street. A male subject was later arrested for burglary. 

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2023; APPROXIMATELY 2:30 AM

Officers responded to a report of two subjects tampering with the lock of an apartment unit in the 100 block of Park Avenue. Two adults were subsequently arrested for attempted burglary and possession of burglary tools.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2023

The Special Enforcement Team (SET) conducted several warrant arrests in various areas of the City and in the Police Station Lobby.

DECEMBER 2023

Officers conducted focused patrols in commercial areas, City parks, and along the Mission Bike Path.

On December 5 and 12, 2023, the Police Department held it's weekly Community Academy sessions in the Council Chambers.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2023

Records Supervisor Sylvia Ortega, Records Specialist Isabell Rodriguez, and Community Service Officer Herrera provided participants with an introduction of the basic functions of Records Bureau.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2023

Community Academy attendees were provided a culmination certificate after successful completion of the 11-week community program. Dinner was provided along with a cake to celebrate their accomplishment.

Individuals interested in attending the next Community Academy may visit the City's website for more information:

SFCITY.ORG/SFPolice/#Community-Academy

NUEVA ESPERANZA CHARTER ACADEMY (NECA)

During the morning of Thursday, December 14, 2023, Detective Cervantes spoke to 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students about social media safety, misuse of social media, and how law enforcement works with social media companies when investigating crimes. 

SAN FERNANDO INSTITUTE FOR APPLIED MEDIA (SFiAM) PARENT ACADEMY

On Friday December 1 and 8, 2023, the Police Department hosted its weekly Parent Academy with presentations on substance abuse (i.e., vaping, smoking, alcohol consumption), the signs and symptoms parents should look for if they suspect their children are experimenting with drugs and other substances, school violence, how to report suspicious activity on a school campus, and were reminded that, "if you see something, say something."

On Wednesday, December 20, 2023, at 6 pm, the Police Department held its monthly Neighborhood Watch Meeting in the Council Chambers.

Police Chief Fabian Valdez provided community members with information on a grant received by the City to fund safety cameras and Automated License Plate Readers (ALPR's), from the Board of State and Community Corrections (BSCC), Organized Retail Theft (ORT) Program.

The next regular Neighborhood Watch meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, January 17, 2024, at 6 pm, in the Council Chambers.

For more information, visit:

SFCITY.ORG/SFPolice/#Neighborhood-Business-Watch

On Wednesday, December 27, 2023, at 12 pm, the Police Department held its monthly Business Watch Meeting in the Council Chambers.

Business members had an opportunity to interact with Police Department personnel and report issues/concerns within the City. A grant received to fund safety cameras and the Carry Concealed Weapons (CCW) application process were discussed a the meeting.

The next regular Business Watch meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, January 24, 2024, at 12 pm, in the Council Chambers.

For more information, visit:

SFCITY.ORG/SFPolice/#Neighborhood-Business-Watch

Are you ready to make an impact in your community? The City of San Fernando is actively seeking enthusiastic and dedicated individuals to join our esteemed police department. We are looking for people ready to commit and dedicate themselves to serving the residents and stakeholders of San Fernando with honor and integrity.

QUALIFICATIONS - LATERAL AND PRESERVICE CANDIDATES

Priority will be given to candidates with existing law enforcement experience or who have completed police academy training. We are also accepting entry-level candidates who will be sponsored through a local POST certified basic peace officer academy.

PROCESS

• For all candidates, successful completion of an oral interview.
• For entry-level candidates, attainment of a minimum score of 42 on the PELLETB written examination or passing the National Testing Network (NTN) test.
• Passing the Physical Agilities Test.
• Passing a background review, polygraph, psychological examination, and medical examination.

Ready to embark on this exciting journey?

For more information and to start your application, visit:

SFCITY.ORG/SFPolice/#Employment-Opportunities.

Please note that only complete applications submitted through the official portal are considered. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of applications.

The City of San Fernando is seeking passionate individuals to join our team as Reserve Police Officers. As a Reserve Officer, you'll stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our full-time Police Officers, making a tangible difference in every corner of our city and as part of our police department family.

We are looking for motivated, collaborative, POST-certified individuals who desire to give back and make a lasting impact in the community. As a Reserve Officer, you will contribute to all aspects of Police Operations, respond to emergencies, ensuring public safety, build strong community relationships and uphold Department values.

For a full list of requirements and to start your journey as a Reserve Police Officer, visit SFCITY.ORG/SFPolice/#Applications-Forms.

The City of San Fernando is currently developing the Downtown Master Plan. Identified as one of the priorities in the City’s 2022-2027 Strategic Goals, the Downtown Master Plan will help guide the future development and revitalization of the City’s historic downtown area, which encompasses approximately 60 city blocks or 185 acres around San Fernando Road and Maclay Avenue. 

While the City’s ultimate goal is to facilitate the long-term success of Downtown San Fernando as a thriving, vibrant, and resilient destination for both locals and visitors, the objectives of this planning effort will be to:

• Study Downtown San Fernando;
• Engage the San Fernando community;
• Develop a community-driven vision for Downtown San Fernando; and
• Recommend strategies for how to implement the community’s vision.  

For more information and to sign up for project updates, visit the project’s website at SFDowntownMasterPlan.com.

Discover the Los Angeles County Rent Relief Program, designed to assist local landlords impacted by the economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic. This program provides grants of up to $30,000 per unit to mom-and-pop landlords with up to four rental units. The aim is to prevent tenant evictions, sustain rental businesses, and ensure housing stability in the City.

Beginning in mid-December 2023, eligible landlords may apply at LACountyRentRelief.com. Register now for updates and access additional resources. Funds will be prioritized for those showing the greatest need, focusing on areas identified by the LA County Equity Explorer Tool and income levels at or below 80% of the LA County Area Median Income (AMI).

Be part of this effort to mitigate the economic impacts caused by the pandemic. Visit LACountyRentRelief.com to secure vital resources!

On November 6, 2023, the City Council approved a partnership with Home Again LA (HALA), a local non-profit. Beginning the second week of December 2023, HALA will provide essential resources and services to individuals and families at risk of homelessness, leveraging programs such as the United Way Rental Relief Program, SoCal Gas Program, and more.

For more details about Home Again LA, visit their website: HomeAgainLA.org.

This collaboration is a significant step in enhancing our support for the community. If you have any questions, please contact Housing Coordinator, Kenya Marquez at KMarquez@sfcity.org.

Missed the Town Hall Discussion on Homelessness? No problem! You can catch up by viewing the recording and accessing the slide deck on the City's website: SFCITY.ORG/Housing-Community-Resources/#Homeless.

For more information and specific details, please reach out to Housing Coordinator Kenya Marquez at KMarquez@sfcity.org or (818) 837-1540. You may also visit: SFCITY.ORG/Housing-Community-Resources.

To request outreach, please send an email to City staff at homeless@sfcity.org or call the Outreach Line at (818) 898-1210. Please be sure to include pertinent information in the email, such as a description of the location, date last seen, description of the individual, as well as any specific concerns regarding the person’s well-being. Once reported, City staff and/or a regional service provider will connect with the individual within 24 to 48 hours on weekdays, and within 72 hours on weekends. Call the Police Department at (818) 898-1267 if the individual is trespassing, harassing, or engaging in other illegal activity.

To read more about the City’s Homelessness Action Plan or for resources, please visit the City’s Housing and Community Resources webpage here: SFCITY.ORG/Housing-Community-Resources.

San Fernando residents qualify for first-time homebuyer’s loan program through the Los Angeles Development Authority’s (LACDA) Home Ownership Program (HOP). The Home Ownership Program provides a second mortgage loan of up to $85,000, or 20% of the purchase price, whichever is less, with 0% interest. Repayment of the loan is required when the home is sold, transfer of title, or home is longer owner-occupied. Eligible properties are single-family homes, townhomes, and condominiums with a maximum purchase price of $700,000. 

If you’re interested in this program, please contact Housing Coordinator, Kenya Marquez at kmarquez@sfcity.org or (818) 837-1540, or visit:

SFCITY.ORG/Housing-Community-Resources/#Housing

During December 2023, the Planning Division approved the following development projects in the City:

• Champion Construction Supply and Design Center at 1334 San Fernando Road.

• The expansion and remodel of Ziggy’s Meat Market at 963 N Maclay Avenue.

• The remodel of the convenience store including adding a new trash enclosure for the ARCO gas station at 601 N Maclay Avenue.

The data provided below describes efforts in Code Enforcement for Fiscal Year 2022-2023 and Fiscal Year 2023-2024 to date.

Try the City’s Online Zoning Portal to find the zoning for your property. Simply enter a street address to interactively view and investigate zoning, permitted uses, and other land use regulations for a specific site. Access the Online Zoning Portal on the City’s website: 

SFCITY.ORG/Community-Development/#Planning

If you encounter any technical issues accessing the Online Zoning Portal, please email CommunityDevelopment@sfcity.org or call (818) 898-1227. 

The City has recently evaluated four competitive bids for the Phase 3 Annual Street Resurfacing Project. Staff is pleased to announce that the award of the contract is anticipated to occur within the next couple of months.

This upcoming phase is dedicated to the continued enhancement of San Fernando's streets, focusing on preservation through the application of microsurfacing, Asphalt-Rubber Membrane Mix (ARAM), and a slurry seal surface. The selected streets for rejuvenation include:

• First Street between Maclay Avenue and Hubbard Avenue;
• Hubbard Avenue between First Street and Fourth Street;
• Kalisher Street between San Fernando Road and South City Limit;
• San Fernando Road between Brand Boulevard and Kittridge Street; and
• Macneil Street between Third Street and Library Street.

The City looks forward to the successful execution of this vital project, contributing to the overall improvement and longevity of the City's infrastructure. Stay tuned for further updates as the City works to enhance the quality of your community roadways!

The Public Works Department now has an Online Permit Counter! 

Construction and Non-construction permits are available online that concern the public right of way. Utility Service requests can also be submitted such as sewer dye test, fire flow test, sewer capital fee, and water meter installation, providing customers with an efficient method to apply online and pay online.

Visit the City's website to begin the process: SFCITY.ORG/Public-Works.

Submit a Request for Services to report Public Works-related items such as raised sidewalks, excessive water run-off, dumped items, potholes, or to request services such as City-owned tree trimming/removal.

Below, please find the current jobs in which the City is recruiting. All positions are open until the vacancy is filled.

FULL-TIME

• Community Preservation Officer
• Police Desk Officer
• Police Officer
• Senior Sewer Worker

PART-TIME

• Community Service Officer
• Crossing Guard
• Recreation Leader I & II 



Visit the City website to view the job bulletins and to download a City Employment Application: SFCITY.ORG/Hiring-Now.

The City wishes to formally welcome the following San Fernando City Team Members who joined the City or were promoted on the respective dates specified:

• Wendell Johnson – Public Works Director (joined the City November 6, 2023);
• Alba Vivanco – Police Desk Officer (joined the City November 20, 2023);
• Andrew Rodriguez – Community Preservation Officer (joined the City December 4, 2023);
• Joseph Gutierrez –PW Maintenance Worker (joined the City December 4, 2023);
• Angel Laguna – Recreation Leader I (joined the City December 4, 2023); and
• Alonso Larios Garcia – Senior Maintenance Worker (joined the City December 11, 2023)

The City Team wishes to express our appreciation and excitement about these new team members. Their skills and talents will be a great addition to the San Fernando Family, especially at this critical time, as we navigate through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Welcome aboard!

The City wishes express our appreciation to the following City Team member who recently separated from the City:

• Michael Okafor, Personnel Manager (effective December 9, 2023); and
• Julian Venegas, RCS Director (effective December 29, 2023).

Beginning January 1, 2024, water and sewer rates will be increasing, as approved by City Council in September 2019, as part of the “City of San Fernando Water and Sewer Rate Study.” This is the final year of rate adjustments under the current authority. The City will be conducting a new rate study in Fiscal Year 2024-2025. 

February 2024 and March 2024 bills will be prorated, while the April 2024 will be the first bill reflecting 100% at the new rates. More information regarding the City’s Water and Sewer Services is provided on the City's website: SFCITY.ORG/Utilities/#How-To-Apply-Water.

HOW TO PAY

The City offers a variety of payment options as follows:

By Mail: Payments can sent via mail to: City of San Fernando, 117 Macneil Street, San Fernando, CA 91340.

Night Dropbox: A drop box is available outside the City Hall’s main entrance. We request that all payments be placed in an envelope and that no cash is enclosed. Payments received in the drop-box will be processed by 9:00 am the next business day.

AutoPay: AutoPay is available to all City of San Fernando water customers. It is a direct debit program that works with your bank for a quick and simple way to pay your utility bill electronically. Click Here to download an AutoPay Application.

In Person: Customers are welcome to pay at the Finance Counter at City Hall (117 Macneil Street, San Fernando, CA 91340).

GET HELP PAYING YOUR UTILITY BILLS!

If you are behind on your account, a variety of assistance programs are available for qualified residents:

STATE UTILITY PROGRAMS

• Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP): LIHWAP is a federally funded program that offers a one-time payment to help you pay your past due water or wastewater bills. This program has been extended through March 2024. LIHWAP helps pay overdue bills for any timeframe. To find out if you qualify for help paying your current or past due water or sewer bill, go to csd.ca.gov/WaterBill to learn more.

• Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is a federally funded program that helps low-income households pay for heating or cooling in their homes. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 awarded California additional funding to help households struggling to make ends meet, and many Californians in need may qualify.​ ​​LIHEAP can offer a one-time payment to help pay your heating or cooling bills, even if you use wood, propane, or oil.​ In addition to help with paying ​​your energy bill, LIHEAP can also provide in-home weatherization services. To learn more about the LIHEAP program, visit the LIHEAP program overview.​ 

UTILITY COMPANY PROGRAMS

• Southern California Edison (SCE) offers a variety of programs, tools, incentives, and rebates designed to help reduce energy usage and control energy costs. Assistance up to $200 for one-time bill assistance is available through the SCE Energy Assistance Fund (EAF). Ongoing bill discounts are also available on monthly bills through the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) programs or California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) programs. More details regarding ways to save with SCE can be accessed through their website at www.sce.com/findsupport.

• SoCalGas has announced $10 million in funding to support low-income families, seniors and small restaurant owners with bill assistance and to bolster community resources for those who may be struggling financially. More information on eligibility and how to apply is available on the SoCalGas Gas Assistance Fund website.

CITY PROGRAMS

• The City offers Low Income Rate Assistance Program.  For additional details on eligibility and an application for this program, visit the Low Income Rate Assistance Program Overview, or contact the Finance Department at Finance@sfcity.org or (818) 898-1212.

Business license renewals have been mailed to all registered businesses in the City. The due date for submittal is by end of business on February 29, 2024. Penalties will be assessed for all late applicants. To renew your business license, visit the City’s Business Support page at SanFernando.hdlgov.com or call (818) 898-1211.

The renewal period for Swap Meet Vendors to obtain their 2024 Swap Meet Business License began on January 2, 2024. A copy of an Occupancy Permit, State Seller Permit, and identification is required to obtain a license. The due date for submittal is by endo of business on February 29, 2024.

Residential 2024 Parking permits will be available at City Hall in the Finance Department. A copy of vehicle registration and driver’s license, displaying the address the permit is being acquired for, is required to obtain a permit. Residents have until January 31, 2024, to avoid a Parking Citation. For more information, contact the Finance Department at (818) 898-1211 or Finance@sfcity.org.

As a reminder, all of the City's financial reports, including annual budgets, audited financial statements, quarterly sales tax reports, and annual local transaction tax report can be found under the Finance Department page on the City's website at:

SFCITY.ORG/Finance/#Financial-Documents

NOTICE OF NOMINEES FOR PUBLIC OFFICE FOR THE MARCH 5, 2024 SPECIAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION

The individuals listed below have been nominated for the offices designated to be filled at the Special Municipal Election to be held in the City of San Fernando on Tuesday, March 5, 2024 to elect one City Councilmember to serve the balance of an unscheduled vacancy, which expires in November 2024. 

In accordance with Elections Code section 13112(b)(1)(C)(i), the Secretary of State’s office conducted a drawing of letters of the alphabet in determining the official placement of candidates’ names on the ballot. Below is the order in which the candidates’ names will appear on the ballot.

Candidate Nominees for City Councilmembers:

• Victoria Garcia
• Sylvia Ballin
• Sean M. Rivas

For additional information, visit: SFCITY.ORG/Elections

The City Clerk Department has launched a new feature to provide the ability to search for records through the Online Records Counter. The portal below provides instant access to public record documents that are available for instant viewing.

CLICK HERE to access the Online Records Counter.

The next regular meeting of the City Council will be held on Tuesday, January 16, 2024, at 6 pm.

The City Council meets in person in the Council Chambers, located at 117 Macneil Street, San Fernando. Meetings are also live streamed via Youtube. Meeting agendas and audio/video is available on the City website at SFCITY.ORG/City-Council/#Agenda-Minutes-Audio.

The next regular meeting of the Education (EDU) Commission will be held on Tuesday, January 30, 2024, at 4:30 pm.

The EDU Commission meets in person in the Council Chambers, located at 117 Macneil Street, San Fernando. Meetings are also live streamed via Youtube. Meeting agendas and audio/video is available on the City website at SFCITY.ORG/Commissions-Board/#Education.

The next regular Parks, Wellness and Recreation (PWR) Commission meeting will be held on Thursday, January 11, 2024, at 6:30 pm.

The PWR Commission meets in person in the Council Chambers, located at 117 Macneil Street, San Fernando. Meetings are also live streamed via Youtube. Meeting agendas and audio/video is available on the City website at SFCITY.ORG/Commissions-Board/#Parks-Wellness-Recreation.

On December 11, 2023, the Planning and Preservation (P&P) Commission approved a Conditional Use Permit to allow the new Target Store, located at 12920 Foothill Boulevard, to sell alcoholic beverages among their grocery items. Target is anticipating opening in the first part of 2024.

The next regular P&P Commission meeting will be held on Monday, February 12, 2024, at 6:30 pm.

The P&P Commission meets in person in the Council Chambers, located at 117 Macneil Street, San Fernando. Meetings are also live streamed via Youtube. Meeting agendas and audio/video is available on the City website at SFCITY.ORG/Commissions-Board/#Planning-Preservation.

Effective November 2023, the regular Transportation and Public Safety (T&PS) Commission meetings will be held on the first Thursday of the month at 6 pm. The next regular T&PS Commission meeting is scheduled for Thursday, February 1, 2024, at 6 pm.

The T&PS Commission meets in person in the Council Chambers, located at 117 Macneil Street, San Fernando. Meetings are also live streamed via Youtube. Meeting agendas and audio/video is available on the City website at SFCITY.ORG/Commissions-Board/#Transportation-Public-Safety.