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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCity Council consideration of Electronic ("E") Newsletter Proposal. (City Manager)CITY OF NATIONAL CITY, CALIFORNIA COUNCIL AGENDA STATEMENT MEETING DATE: November 19, 2013 AGENDA ITEM NO. ITEM TITLE: City Council consideration of Electronic ("E") Newsletter Proposal PREPARED BY: Lauren Maxilom, Management Analyst II DEPARTMENT: City Man PHONE: 619-336-4289 ){�j APPROVED EXPLANATION: See attached Staff Report FINANCIAL STATEMENT: APPROVED: '46,Ar---4-4.156.. ' Finance ACCOUNT NO. APPROVED: MIS Funds Available in account 001-409-000-230-0000 ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW: 'NIA ORDINANCE: INTRODUCTION: FINAL ADOPTION: STAFF RECOMMENDATION: If the Council supports the concept of publishing an e-newsletter, staff recommends a one year pilot program to gauge community interest. Staff further recommends the City Council consider the following factors: 1) Working with a firm with expertise in newsletter design; 2) Publish the newsletter bi-monthly; 3) City staff will create story content. BOARD I COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION: N/A ATTACHMENTS: Staff Report Copies of Newsletters from other cities E-•News Sign—up Staff Report: City Council Consideration of Electronic ("E") Newsletter Proposal Introduction: The purpose of this report is to request City Council consideration of the publication of a city electronic ("E") newsletter. Consistent with the City's Strategic Plan 1c to expand public access to city services and information, an electronic newsletter could serve as another mechanism to support this initiative. The addition of an e-newsletter would enhance and supplement the City's current efforts of community outreach and resident engagement. Background: Citizen engagement, one of the City Council's top priorities, involves more than just public participation at meetings and events. The use of technology provides us with even greater opportunities to engage our residents to ensure they have access to a wide range of tools and information to participate more fully in city government. Despite a difficult economy and dwindling budgets, National City has worked hard to ensure transparency and communication with our residents; some of the ways we have done so include: • Publishing a printed City Newsletter (periodically from 1980 thru 2009) • Establishing the Neighborhood Council Program (2004) • Redesigning the City's Website (2008) • E-News Sign-up (2008) * see attached • Publishing electronic and printed recreation brochures • Webcasting meetings of the City Council, Planning Commission , and Oversight Board (2008) • Installing electronic messaging boards at major city facilities (2008-City Hall 2011-MLK & Library) • Providing online agendas and backup material for all city council and board! commission meetings (2012) • Social Media (2012) • Installing Wi-Fi at major city facilities (2012) Discussion: As previously discussed, there are a number of ways cities can communicate with residents. The internet and social media are powerful tools cities use to communicate with its residents. Another important communication tool is a newsletter which can highlight information on community interests, events, and activities as well as updates and reports on major projects. Technology has moved away from printed newsletters to electronic (`e') newsletters. The convenience of an e-newsletter allows the information to flow directly to the user's inbox with a simple click to access the information that is of interest to them. A well thought out and regularly published newsletter will give the city a unique experience of getting to know our residents, and more importantly, give them a chance to get to know us. After several issues, we can begin to learn what is of interest to the reader by monitoring those articles that are being read, rather than just the tagline. Many cities and agencies publish some form of a newsletter or brochure as a way to inform residents about programs, events, projects and other city business. Newsletters can be electronically sent to subscribers and/or posted to a website to view at any time. Locally, the National City Chamber of Commerce and "Visit National City" publish e- newsletters that are geared more to our business community and regional visitors. Information sharing between the different local newsletters can aid in staff time dedicated to creating feature stories and may reduce revision costs through the chosen firm. Annual Cost: The annual cost of the newsletter can range from $5,000-$17,000 depending on several factors: 1. creation of story content 2. number of issues published 3. design and layout development 4. maintenance The e-newsletter set-up costs will include design, custom graphics, layout, processioning of distribution list, creating and editing of story content, and an after -read report. City Staff created story content • Bi-monthly (6 editions): approximately $5,000 annually • Monthly (12 editions): approximately $8,000 annually. Firm created story content • Bi-monthly (6 editions): approximately $9,500 annually • Monthly (12 editions): approximately $17,000 annually. Staff Recommendation: If the Council supports the concept of publishing an e-newsletter, staff recommends council consider the following factors: 1. One year pilot program to gauge community interest. 2. Bi-monthly newsletter with City staff created story content 3. Contract with a firm whose expertise is in newsletter design / development and has the capability to host (or maintain) the subscriber list 4. Approximate annual cost of $5,000 If approved, the next step in the process would be to return to council with a conceptual layout of a City e-newsletter. Newsletters from other cities Community Connection Page 1 of 5 CommunllCewnectzew CHULA VISTA November 2013 (Click HERE to visit the City's Calendar) KUDOS TO KENNEDY Chula Vista is fortunate to have many wonderful City staff members and some are worthy of statewide recognition including CVPD Lieutenant Roxana Kennedy. Lt. Kennedy recently received the California Peace Officers Association Trailblazer award at the Women Leaders in Law Enforcement symposium for her contributions to law enforcement. This award is presented to a woman working in law enforcement who has made outstanding contributions to her profession and/or professional organization. As the highest ranking female officer in the Chula Vista Police Department and the agency's first female lieutenant, Kennedy was nominated by Police Chief David Bejarano for her professional accomplishments and her volunteer work in Africa with Project Compassion. A 21-year career with CVPD has given Lt. Kennedy a wide array of experience. She currently is the commander of the Crisis Negotiating Team and the Mobile Field Force as well as a District Commander leading problem solving efforts and outreach in the Chula Vista community. For many years, she chaired the department's Awards and Recognition committee and has led fundraising efforts for the Police Foundation. Her off -duty time is spent procuring resources for Project Compassion, a non-profit organization that provides medical aid, educational supplies, and spiritual needs to third world countries. Lt. Kennedy has been to Africa three times working with Project Compassion and says the opportunity to visit and serve in third world countries has enriched her life in so many ways. Sheis looking forward to her next medical mission trip to Romania in May 2014 where the focus will be working to help children in the many orphanages there. Congratulations Lt. Kennedy! This Edition: Lt. Kennedy South Bay Expressway Sewer Rate Increase Swimming Feat Did You Know.., Upcoming Events Join Our Mailing List! Read Past Editions Contacts SERVICES Animal Care Animal Control: 476-2476 http://archive.constantcontact.com/fs 114!1 l 10009660372/archive/1115415085411.html 11 / 13/2013 Community Connection Page 2 of 5 SHOPPING MADE EASIER Make your holiday shopping easier with the South Bay Expressway! Kiss traffic goodbye and open a FasTrak account to save up to 80 percent on tolls. Local trips within Chula Vista are only 50 cents with FasTrak, compared to $2.50 for cash or credit card customers. You could win a $500 spa package South Bay IupressWay Give your commute a makeover and open an account or add a transponder for a chance to win a $500 spa package from eLiveLife.com. "Like" SBXthe125 on Facebook for a chance to win a $100 spa gift certificate. Want even more savings? Refer -A -Friend to open a new account. Both of you can get $10 in free toll credits! Pick up FasTrak when you shop at Costco in Rancho del Rey and get $5.01 in free tolls. FasTrak transponders also work on the 1-15 Express Lanes and other toll roads and bridges in California. Whether you're headed to work, shopping in Chula Vista, or to run errands with the family, save time and money with FasTrak on the South Bay Expressway. CLICK HERE and open an account today! MEETINGS SET ON SEWER INCREASE Every five years, the City of Chula Vista conducts a review of sewer rates to ensure there is continued adequate funding for operation and maintenance of the sewer system and treatment of the City's wastewater system. The review includes rising costs of energy, materials, and water treatment services. Rates are then proposed to cover costs of providing these services. So that residents can ask questions and receive more detailed explanation of the proposed upcoming increase, several community meetings are planned. Input from these meetings will be included in the public hearing scheduled to be discussed at the December 17 City Council meeting. The public is invited to any of the following four community meetings: Wednesday, November 6, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at Salt Creek Community Center, 2710 Otay Lakes Road, or 6 to 8 p.m. at Joseph Casillas Elementary School, 1130 East J Street; Thursday, November 7, from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. at Otay Recreation Center, 3554 Main Street, or 6 to 8 p.m. at Feaster Charter School, 670 Flower Street. For more information, please call (619) 476-5380 or EMAIL. NO "PE ?RESSURE Another City employee has accomplished something many will never do or even thought of: he reached his goal of swimming around all 36 Pacific Ocean piers on the California Coastline! Ken Thiltgen, Pump Maintenance Pet Adoptions: 691-5123 Animal Care Online Environment CLEAN Online CLEAN Business Program: 409-1975 Energy & Water Conservation: 409-3893 Storm Water Hotline: 397-6000 Environmental Services, Household Hazardous Waste, Recycling and Solid Waste: 691-5122 Community Graffiti Hotline: 691-5198 Graffiti IN PROGRESS: 911 Park Reservations Online Service Requests: 397-6000 Service Requests Online Transit; 233-3004 Library Civic Branch: 691-5069 South Branch: 585-5755 Otay Ranch Branch; 397-5740 Library Online Recreation Administration: 409-5979 Recreation Online CV Woman's Club: 409-1980 Heritage Center: 421-7032 Loma Verde Center; 409-1939 Loma Verde Pool: 409-1987 Montevalle Center. 691-5269 Norman Park Center: 409-1930 Otay Center: 409-1999 Parkway Center: 409-1980 Parkway Pool: 409-1985 Parkway Gym: 409-1990 Salt Creek Center: 585-5739 Veterans Center: 691-5260 DEVELOPMENT Land Development 691-5024 Building: 691-5272 Planning: 691-5101 Code Enforcement: 691-5280 Redevelopment & Housing: 691-5047 Development Services Online http:!/arch ive,constantcontact.com/fs114/1110009660372/arehive/1115415085411.html 11 /13/2013 Community Connection Page 3 of 5 Technician with 22 years of service to the City of Chula Vista, completed his dream on September 30 at the Imperial Beach Pier accompanied by his 24 year -old daughter. Thiltgen swam the 20 mile course in eight days, averaging three miles per day. A former lifeguard with the City, the 61 year -old has been an avid ocean swimmer for many years and has participated in a relay swim from Catalina Island to Long Beach (21 miles), and won the Oceanside Labor Day Pier Swim for his age group last year. Thiltgen also has coached swimming at the high school and club level for over 35 years. Congratulations Ken! DID YOU KNOW... ...the Chula Vista Police Department has a Neighborhood Watch page on Facebook! Don't forget to "Like" them. CLICK HERE. SeeClickFix ...if you spot some graffiti, or a traffic light out, or maybe a pothole, remember you can report it by using SeeClickFix! From your Smart Phone or the city's website (CLICK HERE), you can easily submit the problem to the City. Or you can always telephone issues to (619) 397-6000. ...to better serve you, City Hall counter hours have been extended to include Fridays from 9 a.m. to noon. You can now visit counters in Finance, Human Resources, Development Services or the City Clerk's office every weekday. ...after several community meetings, the final design of the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) bridge has been selected. Residents voted overwhelmingly for the option of a bridge on pillars making a more open space under the bridge that is still accessible for walking, playing and socializing. ...our Conservation section continues to receive awards on the state and national level. The latest is three "Beacon Spotlight Awards" for the City's efforts to adopt policies and programs that promote sustainability from the Institute for Local Government and the Statewide Energy Efficiency Collaborative. We were recognized for reducing electricity use in municipal facilities by 15% and natural gas usage by 30% between 2005 and 2011. The City also successfully lowered greenhouse gas emissions in agency facilities by 13% and implemented over 60 sustainability initiatives at its own facilities and throughout the community. ...small businesses in Chula Vista can take advantage of SDG&E's no -cost Direct Install Program to help your business save energy and money. The program provides free services including energy assessments, equipment upgrades, and installation. A trained energy -efficient contractor will evaluate your energy use, identify energy -saving opportunities, and install energy -efficient equipment upgrades at no cost. Free upgrades can include: fluorescent lighting, refrigeration, occupancy sensors, and vending machine misers. Interested businesses should act now, because some free upgrades expire at the end of the year! interested? EMAIL, CLICK HERE, or call 1-800-637-3753. Economic Development: 409-5870 Small Businesses: 691-5248 PUBLIC SAFETY Emergency: 911 Fire Main Line: 691-5055 Prevention Division: 691-5029 Prevention Online Police Report Crime/Dispatch: 691-5151 GOVERNMENT Mayor & Council: 691-5044 ADMINISTRATION City Attorney; 691-5037 City Clerk: 691-5041 City Manager: 691-5031 Communications Media Relations & Special Events: 691-5296 Finance Main Line: 691-5250 Purchasing: 691-5141 Business Licenses Online Human Resources Main Line: 691-5096 Job Hotline: 691-5095 Volunteering: 691-5000 http://archive.constantcontact,com/fs l 14./1110009660372./archive/1115415085411.html 11/13/2013 Community Connection Page 4 of 5 ...Aquatics is requesting new swim suits in all sizes to help provide swim suits to young swimmers and water polo players. The donated suits are available to children and teens that demonstrate financial need, and are actively participating in a competitive aquatic program or registered for swim lessons with the City. Swim suits - for both boys and girls - can be dropped off at Parkway Aquatic Center, 384 Park Way. For more information; please call Ariel! Folks at (619) 409-1985 or EMAIL. UPCOMING EVENTS Veterans Day Monday, November 11, is when America honors its veterans. The City of Chula Vista is no exception and recognizes these brave men and women in many ways. Although all City offices and facilities will be closed on November 11, Chula Vista recognizes our veterans through monuments, celebrations, and rememberances. Veterans Park, 785 East Palomar Street, includes a prominent "Walk of Honor" walkway paved with bricks inscribed with the names of veterans. Memorial Park, 373 Park Way, is the City's second oldest park dating back to 1937 and is the site of the City's Memorial Monument dedicated to armed forces dating back to World War II. The Chula Vista Public Library, 365 F Street, hosts a Veterans Wing which provides counseling space, updated veterans information and memorabilia, books and media materials. In addition, over 84 City streets in the communities of Sunbow, McMillin and Otay Ranch are named to honor veterans. Chula Vista is also home to the Veterans Home of California - Chula Vista, one of six dedicated Veterans Homes in California. The 400-bed long-term care facility provides care to veterans in three avenues: independent living, licensed residential, and skilled nursing care. The City of Chula Vista wishes to thank all veterans for their service. PAL Donation Drive Now through December 14. the Chula Vista Police Activities League (PAL) is collecting donations for needy families during the holidays. Donations of cash, toys, http:/1archive.constantcontaet,comlfs 114/ 1110009660372/archive/1115415085411.html 11/13/2013 Community Connection Page 5 of 5 gift cards and wrapping paper can be dropped off in the lobby of the Chula Vista Police Department. Especially needed are new, unwrapped toys for children ages 9 through 13, and gift cards for young teens ages 14-17. Some gift card suggestions include movie theaters, restaurants, Target, Walmart, etc. No bicycles or electronics are needed. Checks can be made payable to CVPAL, c/o Nicolle DePriest, CVPD, 315 Fourth Avenue, Chula Vista, CA 91910. Last year, CVPAL distributed gifts to over 1,200 needy children thanks to your generosity. Gobble, Gobble All City offices and facilities will be closed to allow employees to celebrate Thanksgiving on Thursday, November 28, and Friday, November 29. We will re -open normal hours on Monday, December 2. Trash pick up will be delayed one day for Thursday and Friday. Happy Thanksgiving! Holiday in the Village Save the date of Saturday, December 7, when TAVA presents the second annual Holiday in the Village. Third Avenue; from E to G Street will be transformed into a mecca of holiday merriment on December 7, from 12 to 5 p.m., offering up delights for all ages. This free pedestrian -friendly holiday event showcases the unique charm of the Village while providing activities, entertainment and shopping incentives to visitors. Fall Backward Remember to turn your clocks back one hour on Sunday morning (2 a.m.), November 3, when we leave Daylight Savings Time. Shop Chula Vista Now! With the holiday shopping season about to begin, don't forget to shop local and support Chula Vista businesses! Check out the discounts at your favorite stores. CLICK HERE. City of Chula Vista I Office of Communications I www.chulavistaca.gov froaif CQI IfCOntacf' httpJfarchive.constantcontact.com/fs 114/1110009660372/archive/1115415085411.html 11/13i2013 November 2013 - • City News 8 Events FREE PAPER SHREDDING EVENT 4mi6._ Don't discard — shred your household documents in a quick and easy way by bringing them to La rvesa's EDCO Station, 81 84 Commercial Street on Saturday, Nov. 16.9 am -1 pm • Limit two standard boxes per household • Staples OK • Shredding will be done onsite • No appointment necessary This City event is made possible through the generous support of EDCO Disposal. Questions can be directed to 667,1167. Pete Palermo Scholarship Program In April 1986 Thelma Palermo established the City of La Mesa Palermo Scholarship Fund in memory of her husband, Pietro 'Pete` Palermo. Pete Palermo was a prominent local businessman and beloved citizen of La Mesa who was very fond of children and recognized the importance of recreational opportunities in building confidence and self-esteem. Funding for youth scholarships are made possible from the interest earned on the fund's principal each quarter. The Pete Palermo Scholarship Fund awards scholarships on a first -come first served basis to La Mesa resident families that meet guidelines provided by the U.S Department of Housing and Urban Development. Qualifying La Mesa families may apply for a credit of up to $60 for children age 17 years or younger toward recreation activities provided through the City, The La Mesa Community Services Department offers a wide variety of programs for youth from Pre School Enrichment Classes, Dance. Gymnastics. Sports, and Swim Lessons to week-long Summer Day Camps For more information contact La Mesa Community Services at 667.1300 Still Fresh After Twenty Years On October 25, the City of La Mesa celebrated the 20th Anniversary of the La Mesa Village Farmers' Market, The City started the market back in 1993 to promote health and wellness for its citizens and spur activity in the Downtown Village area. In order to mark the two -decade milestone, vendors participated it a booth -decorating contest. a dee-jay spun hits from the 1990s and a face -painter was on -hand for the youngsters. The City also unveiled special 20th Anniversary street banners around La Mesa Civic Center, the market's location since 2011. The banners thank La Mesa for supportng the market and will also serve to promote the market, year-round. Attendees received complimentary 20th Anniversary shopping bags. The City also used the occasion to host Food Day —the City's first collaborative event with the County of San Diego's live Well" program. Food Day strives to educate young children about nutrition and healthy foods. Students from three local elementary schools went on a Food Day scavenger hunt at the market to learn about healthy foods, talk to farmers, and to try new fruits and vegetables. Once they completed the scavenger hunt, they received "market bucks" that they used to purchase farm -fresh fruits and vegetables. The La Mesa Village Farmers Market operates at Civic Center every Friday, rain or shine, from 2-6 p.m. and, as the banners say, it's "still fresh after 20 years." Calendar of Events Every Friday Farmers Market 2:00 - 6:00 pm November 8 & 22 City Hall Closed Fridays November 11 Veteran's Day City Hall Closed November 12 & 26 City Council Meetings November 16 Free Paper Shredding Event 9:00 am - 1.00 pm November 28-29 Thanksgiving Holiday City Hall Closed La Mesa Village ARMER 4$ 11f'RS q STILL FRESH AFTER 20 YEARS [VERY rEMAT 2 TO 6 P.M. LA MESA Below 100 The La Mesa Police Department is participating in a program called Below 100. This program's goal is to reduce the number of officer deaths in the line of duty, The last time Police Officer line -of -duty deaths were below 100 was in 1944. For the last 50 years. the average has been well over 150. In 2010 and 2011 there were t / 174 line -of -duty deaths. As of October 1, 2013 there have been 80 police officers killed in the line -of -duty. Below 100 is an initiative to reduce police line -of -duty deaths to fewer than one hundred per year. The first complete year after the initiative began was last year. There was a 50 year low of in line -of -duty deaths with 120. The nationwide initiative is led by a team of core trainers. The La Mesa Police Department has three officers who are trainers. They are Sergeant Runge, Sergeant Stoney and Master Officer Higgins. The five key tenants of the Below 100 program are • Wear your belt. • Wear your vest. • Watch your speed • WIN — What's Important Now? • Remember Complacency Kills' By concentrating on the areas of loss that are most susceptible to change (e.g use of safety equipment and enhanced situational awareness), Below 100 can serve as an instrument of cultural transformation and improved operational practices. Below 100 recognizes that awareness and training are key, and the La Mesa Police Department is concerned with ensuring a safe community for residents and officers alike. 8th Annual Historic Home Tour Saturday, November 2 • 10 am — 3 pm Each year, the La Mesa Historical Societyin co-sponsorship with the City of La Mesa Historic Preservation Commission, hosts a home tour of notable local historic properties. This year s tour will feature three homes located on Lemon Avenue and one on El Capitan Drive. In addition, the Historical Society's own McKinney House Museum will be open for visitors. The staging area will be at the parking lot on Allison Avenue across from City Hall It is a self -guided tour and the homes can be visited in any order. Old Town Trolley shuttle buses are available as there is limited parking T r, at the sites. Flat ea walking shoes are } _ recommended! '�rlc Tickets are $20 �kI.inncy klousi' C tv and may be purchased the day of the event CITY OF LA MESA JEWEL of the Hrus 8130 Allison Avenue La Mesa, CA 91942 CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITY UPDATE Glen Street Sidewalks Sidewalks will be installed on the east side of Glen Street from Alpine to Lemon Avenue Elementary School. The street will be resurfaced following sidewalk construction. Funding Source: Safe Routes to School Grant and Gas fax Harbinson Avenue Traffic Calming: Small concrete medians and traffic circles are being installed on Harbinson Avenue for traffic calming. Funding Source TransNet University & Massachusetts Traffic Signal Improvements The intersection and traffic signal are being upgraded in compliance with ADA and complete streets policies A left turn pocket and crosswalk will be added to the west leg of the intersection. Funding Source: Caltran.; Highway Safety Improvement Program Grant and TransNet Northmont Park Improvements: The Park is scheduled to gel a new playground. new picnic benches with shade. some new lighting, and improved accessibility. The playground project' is part of the La Mesa Park and Recreation Foundation's It's Childs Play initiative. The goal of this drive is to revamp five playgrounds in La Mesa. Th.s is the second site to be completed. the first was Jackson Park. The playground will have a nature theme. Funding source Donations from Grossmont Center, Bill and Nvrrna Verbek. and park fees Northmont Playground Improvements 619.463.6611 cityoflamesa.com © 2013 City of La Mesa KEEPS YOU CONNECTED August/September 2013 CARLSBAD Currents Leo Carrillo Ranch celebrates 10 years as a city park Discover the history and tranquil beauty of a former working rancho at the city's Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park, which is celebrating 10 years as a city park in August. Read about this unique local treasure, including free tours, nearby trails and upcoming events. v� - IN THIS ISSUE New RV rules Park anniversary Fun things to do Free mediation service CITY OF CARLSBAD New rules for RVs, other oversized vehicles New rules for parking RVs and other oversized vehicles are now in effect in the City of Carlsbad. The ordinance restricts parking of all oversized vehicles, including RVs, on city streets between the hours of 2 to 5 a.m, The ordinance allows residents, their guests, and hotel or motel guests with RVs to apply for a free permit, which can be obtained from the City of Carlsbad Finance Department, located in the lobby of the Faraday Center at 1635 Faraday Ave. For more information visit www.carlsbadca.govftransportation or call 760-602-2420. Celebrating 10 Years Free tours! of Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park Discover the history and tranquil beauty of a former working rancho at the city's Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park, which is celebrating 10 years as a city park. Once owned by actor and conservationist Leo Carrillo, the ranch is secluded in the heart of a magnificently landscaped 27-acre canyon. The historic park features hand-crafted adobe buildings, antique windmills, a reflecting pool and many other beautiful historic structures where visitors can explore and experience California history. Nature -lovers delight in gorgeous agave, bougainvillea, birds of paradise, plentiful trees and the company of dozens of brilliant peacocks who call the ranch home. Leo Carrillo Ranch is a designated Historic National Landmark that was opened to the public by the City of Carlsbad in 2003. Saturdays, 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Sundays, noon and 2 p.m. Enjoy a 90-minute, docent -led tour of this historic park. Wear comfortable walking shoes or boots. Tours depart from the parking lot. Reservations are not required. Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park is located at 6200 Flying Leo Carrillo Lane, off Melrose in southeast Carlsbad. The park is open Tuesday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free. Find out more about Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park at www.carlsbadca.gov/ parksandrec palomarAirort Roan 6200 Flying LC Lane Carrillo Way City maintains balanced budget On July 1, the City of Carlsbad started a new fiscal year with a $259.4 million budget that invests in the key city services most important to the community, while putting money away to safeguard Carlsbad's long term financial health. The city budget focuses on priorities set by the City Council, such as strengthening the local economy, improving traffic flow, meeting changing parks and recreation needs, and updating land use policies to preserve the city's excellent quality of life. Continuing to streamline city operations, finding efficiencies and investing in technology and other innovation will enable the city to meet these goals in the most cost effective manner for taxpayers. To view the city budget, visit www.carlsbadca.gov/finance Free neighborhood mediation service Having a problem with a neighbor? The City of Carlsbad provides a free mediation program for residents. Mediation is a confidential meeting between people who have a disagreement. A trained, neutral mediator guides a discussion of issues toward a mutually acceptable agreement. Call 760-434-2868 for more information. The City of Carlsbad provides a free mediation program for residents. n ! CITY OF CARLSBAD • •to. A � Fun things to do Family Open Studios Plus Sept. 7, 11 a.m. — 2 p.m., Free William D. Cannon Art Gallery, Carlsbad City Library (Dove Lane) courtyard, 760-602-2021 Join the Art Miles Mural Project in creating a large canvas mural all about dogs, Tour the exhibition, "Elliott Erwitt: Dog Dogs," featuring 65 terrific photographs of dogs conveying tons of personality. Performances will take place in the Schulman Auditorium at 11:45 a.m. and at 1:15 p.m. Performers to be announced. Family Movie Night Sept. 14, 6 —10 p.m., Free Stagecoach Community Park, 760-434-2843 This family fun event presents Madagascar 3 under the stars on a giant movie screen. Food, beverages and a $5 Fun Zone wristband (for fun and exciting preshow activities) are available for purchase. Author Talk Sept. 21, 11 a.m. — noon, Free Carlsbad City Library (Dove Lane), 760-602-2026 Acclaimed writer Jane Vandenburgh, author of the Random House book "Wrong Dog Dream," will discuss and sign copies of her memoir about the healing powers of dogs. This talk complements the Cannon Art Gallery exhibition "Elliott Erwitt: Dog Dogs," featuring photographs of man's best friend (Aug. 4 — Nov. 3). National Public Lands Day Sept. 28, 8:30 — 11:30 a.m., Free Lake Calavera Preserve, 760-434-2978 Celebrate National Public Lands Day. Lend a hand for America's lands by participating at a trail volunteer work event or other trail activities at one of Carlsbad's largest open space preserves. ArtSplash Sept. 28, 10 a.m. — 6 p.m., Sept. 29, 10 a.m. — 5 p.m., Free Armada Drive between Cannon and Palomar Airport roads www.carlsbadartspIash.org This free, family -oriented festival is a community celebration for arts education featuring unbelievable chalk art street paintings, dozens of talented artists from Southern California creating, showcasing, and selling their art, musicians, meandering performers and food, all overlooking a spectacular view of the Pacific Ocean. Library Concert Series Oct. 6, 2 — 3 p.m., Free Carlsbad City Library (Dove Lane), 760-602-2026 Enjoy the sounds of The Scarlet Furies, a folk/Americana/ country rock band, featuring the beautifully haunting vocals of singer and songwriter Raleigh Holmes. For a complete, searchable calendar of events, visit www.carlsbadca.gov. e-News Sign-up I Page 1 of 1 'Select Language Lvi Powered by Gage Translate eNews Sign-up E-Notifier Signup I Change E-Notifier Preferences E-mail Address: Event Calendar- ] civil Service Commission i ] Council Agendas & Minutes ] Library Events J Neighborhood Councils 1 Oversight Board Planning Commission ] Senior Citizens Advisory Board C.A.R.E. Newsletter ❑ Send Text Only E Subscribe to All Subscribe Q Community & Police Relations Commission Q General Plan Update O National City Week IJ Other ❑ Park & Rec Advisory Board ❑ Public Art Committee ❑ Traffic Safety Committee O FOCUS Newsletter http://www.nationalcityca.goviindex.aspx?page=83 11/14/2013