👉 City of Vista News Headlines

December 2, 2024

Vista City Council to Certify Election Results on December 10

The Vista City Council will convene for its last meeting of 2024 on Tuesday, Dec. 10, at 5:30 p.m., in the Vista Civic Center Council Chambers and the public is invited to attend. Agenda highlights include:

Certification of Election Results.
Oath of Office for Deputy Mayor Katie Melendez, commencing a new 4-year term.
Oath of Office for Jeff Fox, who will represent District 2 following the departure of Councilmember Joe Green who chose not to seek re-election.

The City invites residents to attend as we recognize outgoing Councilmember Green for his service the past 8 years.

📅 Date: Tuesday, December 10

⏰ Time: 5:30 p.m.

📍 Location: Vista Civic Center, Council Chambers, 200 Civic Center Drive

Free Mulch & Compost for Vista Residents, December 6-8

The City of Vista, in partnership with EDCO Disposal, is offering free mulch and compost to Vista residents from December 6-8. This self-serve event is an excellent opportunity to improve your landscaping while promoting sustainability.

This is a self-serve, self-load, and self-haul event, so please bring the following:

Your own containers, gloves, and shovels
A tarp if hauling mulch in an open truck bed
Note: Commercial vehicles are not permitted

Why Mulch and Compost Matter

Mulch Benefits: Controls weeds, retains soil moisture (2-3 inches saves water), prevents erosion, and moderates soil temperature.
Compost Benefits: Improves plant growth and health, provides stable organic nutrients, reduces erosion, and conserves water by retaining soil moisture.

For questions or more information, contact Public Works at 760.639.6177.

📅 Dates: December 6-8

⏰ Hours: Dawn to dusk

📍 Location: Vacant lot at Vale Terrace Drive and Williamston Street

Trader Joe's Set to Open Vista Location on December 6

Vista residents, mark your calendars! On Friday, Dec. 6, Trader Joe’s will open its doors at 1861 University Drive in North County Square, marking the debut of its first location in Vista with plenty of free parking.

The festivities will kick off at 8:55 am with a ribbon-cutting ceremony followed by the store's official opening at 9 am.

Spanning 10,595 square feet, the Vista location promises the signature Trader Joe’s experience with its unique products, friendly service, and neighborhood charm. True to its community-focused ethos, the store hired 75 crew members from the surrounding area and welcomed transfers from nearby locations, solidifying its local ties.

As part of its commitment to giving back, the Vista Trader Joe’s will participate in the company's longstanding Neighborhood Shares Program. Through this initiative, 100% of unsold but still enjoyable products will be donated to local non-profit organizations every day of the week, ensuring that nothing goes to waste while benefiting the community.

Event Details

Date: Friday, December 6, 2024

Time:

8:55 am - Ribbon-cutting ceremony
9:00 am - Store opens for business
Operating Hours: 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily
Location: 1861 University Drive, Vista, CA 92083

Photo of Jingle Terrace Live from 2023 by Maria Bowman

"Jingle Terrace Live" Returns: A Magical Holiday Celebration at the Moonlight Amphitheatre

The Moonlight Amphitheatre is delighted to announce the return of "Jingle Terrace Live" for the 2024 holiday season. This free, family-friendly event will take place from December 6 to December 21, between 5:30 pm and 8:30 pm, at the Moonlight Amphitheatre located in Brengle Terrace Park, 1250 Vale Terrace Drive, Vista.

Attendees can look forward to a variety of nightly activities, including the following:

Video and Light Shows
Photos with Santa
Kids Crafts and Games
Costumed Characters

In addition to these ongoing attractions, special scheduled activities will feature the following:

Reindeer Appearances: December 6-8
Christmas Highland Cows: December 10-12 and 17-19
Jingle Brass Band Performances: December 6-8, 14, 17, and 19-21

While admission, parking, and all activities are free, a variety of food and drinks will be available for purchase.

This year, Jingle Terrace Live is partnering with local organizations to support the community by providing hot meals to those in need. Attendees are encouraged to make cash donations at "Jingle Terrace Live", which will benefit the following:

Meals on Wheels: Delivering over 650,000 nutritious meals annually to older San Diegans and veterans.
Mama’s Kitchen: Providing nutritional support to San Diego residents at risk of malnutrition due to critical illnesses.
Brother Benno’s: Serving homeless neighbors, the working poor, and seniors by offering essential meals and support services.

For more information, and to review the daily event calendar for "Jingle Terrace Live," click below.

The City of Vista acknowledges the Moonlight Cultural Foundation and their sponsors for underwriting "Jingle Terrace Live."

Jingle Terrace Live

December Brings Holiday Cheer at the McClellan Senior Center

As the McClellan Senior Center wraps up its 50th anniversary year, December is packed with festive events and enriching services for the community. The Center’s December newsletter is now available, offering details on all the upcoming programs. Here are the highlights:

Evening Holiday Event

When: Friday, December 13, 6:00 pm.
What: Enjoy food and live music by Daniel Newheiser.
RSVP: Call 760.640.5288 by Monday, Dec. 9 to reserve your spot.

Computer Corner Classes

When: Wednesdays, 2:00–3:00 pm.
What: Focused on computer skills, this free class is led by Sandi Leyva. Bring your own laptop or use one of the Center’s computers (available on a first-come, first-served basis).

Congregate Lunch Service

Who: Open to adults aged 60+ (guests under 60 are welcome).
When: Weekdays, 12:00 pm (beverage service begins at 11:00 am).
Cost:60+ Years: $4.00 suggested contribution
Under 60: $8.00 mandatory fee
Reservations: Call 760-643-5288 by 1:00 pm at least one business day in advance.
Transportation: Available for those who qualify; reserve 24 hours in advance.

December Event Calendar Highlights

December 5: Decorate the Trees Party with Rock Creek Students and live music by the Sunset Strummers.
December 11: Festival of Lights with live music.
December 12: Cookie Decorating.
December 13: Evening Holiday Event with live music by Daniel Newheiser (RSVP required by December 9).
December 16: Toe Tappers Dance Performance and a visit from the Boys & Girls Club.
Holiday Movie Screening: “Christmas Vacation.”
December 17:Holiday Bingo and Ugly Sweater Contest.
Holiday concert by Monte Vista Elementary students.
Culture Caravan Winter/Spring Trip Information Session.
December 20: Winter Solstice Party with live music.

Join the Celebration

There’s something for everyone this holiday season at the McClellan Senior Center. Whether you’re interested in dancing, music, movies, or learning new skills, the Center is your destination for fun, food, and festive cheer.

For more information or to download the full newsletter, click below, or call 760.643.5288.

McClellan Senior Center December Newsletter