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July 2026

Welcome to the City of Novato's monthly newsletter! This month's highlights include Council's adoption of a balanced budget, Permit Services Improvement Plan, City Council nomination period - opening July 13, Finance Director Carla Carvalho-DeGraff's national recognition, Economic Strategic Plan, Parks & Recreation activities, and more!

You can stay up-to-date on City news and events throughout the month by visiting novato.gov/connectwithus and signing up for specific topics that are most important to you.

Novato City Council Adopts Balanced Budget Supported by Measure M

On June 23, 2026, City Council adopted a $62.5 million general fund budget for Fiscal Year 2026/27. Guided by community feedback, the budget funds priorities that improve public safety, maintain infrastructure and enhance quality of life throughout Novato.

The budget takes effect July 1 and marks the second consecutive year the City has adopted a balanced budget since passage of Measure M.

The adopted budget includes funding for community priorities, including:

• SAFE Program – Continued funding for specialized response services connecting people experiencing mental health, substance use, or homelessness challenges with community resources.
• Parks and Street Maintenance – Additional investment in roadway repairs, weed abatement and maintenance of parks and public spaces.
• Small Business Support – Continued funding for grants helping improve visibility of local businesses' storefronts.
• Facilities Assessment – Funding to identify maintenance needs and develop a long-term improvement plan for City-owned properties.

City of Novato Delivers Customer-driven Improvements to Permit Services

The City of Novato has completed a two-year transformation of its permit services, delivering faster approvals, expanded customer support and new online tools designed to make the permitting process easier, more transparent and more accessible for everyone.

Key improvements include:

• 24/7 Online Permit Services – Novato Permits provides convenient online access to apply for permits, submit documents, track application status and communicate with City staff.
• Faster Permitting Process – Same Day Express Permits and 5-Day Quick Permits for common home improvement projects allow qualifying applications to receive prompt action and start projects sooner.
• All-Agency Advice Center – Permit Connections brings together City staff and representatives from Novato Fire, North Marin Water and Novato Sanitary to provide in person guidance and help customers understand permit requirements before they apply.
• Expanded Customer Support and Accessibility – The City has filled 14 vacant positions, enhanced technology, expanded bilingual support, and created new online resources and videos to help customers navigate the permitting process.

While these improvements mark a significant milestone, the work is ongoing. Community Development staff gather real-time feedback from customers and use those insights to drive continuous improvements.

Interested in Running for Novato City Council?

The Nomination Period for City Council Districts 2, 4 and 5 opens on July 13, 2026, and closes on August 7, 2026. 

City Council candidates must:

• Reside and be a registered voter in the district in which they seek election at the time nomination papers are issued.
• Gather signatures of individuals on a nomination petition who are registered voters in the district for which they are running.
• File all other paperwork and complete all other steps, as required, prior to the close of the nomination period.

For more information or to make an appointment to run for the City Council, please contact City Clerk Laura McDowall at (415) 899-8986 or lmcdowall@novato.gov.

¿Le interesa postularse para el Concejo Municipal de Novato?

El período de nominaciones durante el cual los candidatos pueden postularse para el Concejo Municipal en los Distritos 2, 4 y 5 abre el 13 de julio de 2026 y cierra el 7 de agosto de 2026.

Un candidato a Concejal Municipal debe:

• Vivir en y ser votante registrado en el distrito para el cual se postula en el momento de postularse a la vacante.
• Juntar firmas en una petición de nominación de individuos que son votantes registrados en el distrito al cual se postula.
• Completar todo el demás papeleo y los otros pasos, según sea requerido, antes del cierre del período de nominaciones. 

Para más información o para hacer una cita para postularse al Concejo Municipal de Novato, por favor contacte a la Secretaria Municipal Laura McDowall al (415) 899-8986 o lmcdowall@novato.gov. 

City of Novato Finance Director Carla Carvalho-DeGraff Receives National Service Award

The City of Novato is proud to announce that Finance Director Carla Carvalho-DeGraff has received the Recognition for Outstanding Public Service Award from the Government Finance Officers Association, a national organization representing 30,000+ public finance professionals across the U.S. and Canada.

The award honors her exceptional leadership, dedication to public service, and major contributions to strengthening Novato’s financial operations.

Since joining the City in 2022 as Deputy Finance Director, Carvalho-DeGraff has helped guide the Finance Department through significant challenges, including staffing shortages and overdue audits.

In just three years, she oversaw completion of six financial audits, bringing the City current on its reporting. She also built and mentored a strong Finance team, strengthened internal processes, and helped establish systems to support long-term fiscal health.

“Carla’s leadership has been instrumental in restructuring the City’s financial operations and building a Finance Department prepared to meet the needs of our community well into the future,” said City Manager Amy Cunningham. “She led through difficult challenges with professionalism, determination and humility. She helped put the City on solid financial footing. I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this national recognition and am delighted that she is receiving this distinguished honor from her peers."  

Carvalho-DeGraff’s national recognition is both a celebration of her extraordinary leadership and a reflection of the City’s commitment to responsible financial stewardship. We’re Novato Proud to have her leading the way.

Opportunity Areas: Places That Could Shape Novato's Future

As part of Novato's Economic Development Strategic Plan, the City identified several "opportunity areas,” places with the greatest potential to attract investment, support local businesses, and enhance quality of life. 

One of the most important is Downtown Novato. With its historic buildings, local businesses, restaurants, events, and SMART station, Downtown is already a community gathering place. Residents told us they want to see it become even more vibrant, with more activities, housing, and stronger connections between the station and downtown core. 

Redwood Boulevard is another key opportunity area. As one of Novato's main corridors, it connects Downtown, shopping centers, SMART stations, and major destinations throughout the city. Future improvements could enhance safety, walkability, and business activity, housing, and connection to the future Eames Institute of Infinite Curiosity at the old Birkenstock Campus.  

Hamilton Field offers unique opportunities for arts, culture, tourism, and economic activity. Its historic buildings, arts center, office space, and SMART station create a strong foundation for future investment. 

The plan also looks at underutilized shopping centers and City-owned properties that could be revitalized through new businesses, housing, public spaces, and community amenities. 

The Economic Development Strategic Plan will do more than identify opportunities, it will recommend specific actions to help move these areas forward. Potential strategies include supporting business attraction, improving public spaces, encouraging housing near jobs and transit, activating vacant properties, and strengthening arts and cultural destinations. 

By focusing on these opportunity areas, Novato can build on its strengths and create a roadmap for future improvements that benefit residents, businesses, and visitors alike. 

Concerts on the Green

Join us on select Fridays in June, July & August for free concerts at the Novato Civic Green, 901 Sherman Avenue from 6pm to 8pm



• July 10 - Sean Carscadden Trio (Americana/Blues/New Orleans Funk)⁠
• July 17 - The Fell Swoop (SF Funk/Soul/Disco/Dance Pop)⁠
• August 7 - Big Blu Soul Quartet (Soul/Rhythm & Blues/Funk)⁠
• August 21 - Anthony Arya (Americana Rock)⁠

Hot Amphitheater Nights

Come out and enjoy live music under the stars at the Hamilton Amphitheater, 601 N. Hamilton Parkway, on select Saturdays this from 5pm - 7pm

• July 25 – Top Shelf Classics (Soul, R&B, Motown, Pop, Funk, & Jazz)⁠
• August 29 – Club 90 (Dance Music/1960's to Today)⁠

Note: Parking is available at the Hamilton Community Center Parking Lot or the old Hamilton Gym Parking Lot. Both lots are a short walk away from the venue. ⁠⁠

Summer Beach Splash Teen Night at Hamilton Pool

Join us for a fun-filled Teen Night on Friday, July 10 from 6:30–8:30pm at the Hamilton Pool!

Designed for teens ages 12-16, this exciting evening features swimming, music, games, and more. Enjoy pizza, snacks, and beverages while you hang out with friends and soak up the summer vibes.

Pre-registration is preferred - drop-in's allowed.

Camp Ton-of-Fun

Camp Ton-of-Fun is the ultimate summer destination for campers! Packed with a blend of indoor and outdoor play, arts and crafts, exciting games, pool trips, and even Friday Flicks, our full-day camp ensures endless fun and laughter. Plus, each day brings a special activity tailored to the weekly theme, making every moment a new adventure at Camp Ton-of-Fun! 

Do you have a camper too young for CTOF? Check out our Camp Ton-of-Fun Minis for campers ages 5 to 7 years old!

Summer Camps at Novato Gymnastics

Join us for a summer of movement, learning and fun! Register for Full-Day Camp (ages 5-12) or Half-Day Camp (ages 3-5) at the Novato Gymnastics Center. Campers will enjoy gymnastics, obstacle courses, group games, arts & crafts, and outdoor play - all led by our experienced and supportive staff.

We're dedicated to creating a positive, safe, and well-rounded camp experience for every child.

All Sports Camp

If you’re looking for an action packed summer option, All Sports Camp delivers the ultimate playground for active, energetic kids.

Each day is filled with excitement as campers dive into a variety of sports, classic games, team challenges, and fast paced fun. From scoring goals to mastering dodgeball, every moment is an adventure in motion!

Hawaiian Lunch at MTSC

Join us on Wednesday, July 29 at 12pm for a Hawaiian Lunch at the Margaret Todd Senior Center! Head to the islands with a delicious meal of teriyaki chicken with pineapple, onions, and peppers, steamed white rice, Hawaiian macaroni salad, green salad and homemade pineapple upside down cake for dessert. Plus, enjoy a hula performance by hula group Ka Lehua ‘O Nalani, all for just $22 ($25 for non-members).

For more information, call 415-899-8290 or register at the Margaret Todd Senior Center front desk, 1560 Hill Road.

Novato City Council Votes to Approve Costco Gas Station

At its regular meeting on June 9, 2026, the Novato City Council approved a proposed Costco Gas Station next to the existing Costco warehouse at the Vintage Oaks Shopping Center. The Council’s decision followed a public hearing on an appeal of the Planning Commission’s April 2026 approval of the project, as well as certification of the project’s final Environmental Impact Report.

The gas station includes 14 fuel pumps, allowing up to 28 vehicles to fuel at the same time, and related infrastructure and will serve Costco members. The project also supports the installation of new electric vehicle chargers at Vintage Oaks, ten of which have already been installed. No changes are proposed to the Costco building.

As part of the appeal process, Council reviewed the project’s environmental impacts and its consistency with the City’s policies and long-term goals. The hearing included presentations from City staff, the appellants, and Costco representatives, along with public comment and Council discussion.

Call for Artists – Playground Mural at Hamilton Amphitheater Park

Help tell the story of the Hamilton Amphitheater Park Playground — a welcoming and inclusive gathering place where our community comes together to play, perform, and connect!

The City of Novato is seeking artist proposals for a mural inspired by music, play, inclusion, diversity and community connection, with content appropriate for children ages 2-5. The selected artist will receive a total project award of $10,000. Priority consideration will be given to Novato and Marin County residents, but all artists are welcome to apply.

Applications open the week of July 6, 2026!

Questions? Please email prcs@novato.gov or call 415.889.8975.

Novato Police Department: National Night Out

Join the Novato Police Department for their annual FREE National Night Out event on Tuesday, August 4 from 4pm - 6pm at the City Administrative Offices parking lot, 922 Machin Avenue.

National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign designed to increase awareness of crime and drug prevention, generate support for local anti-crime efforts, and promote police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie. 

Event Highlights:

• Free Otter Pops with the Cops
• Giveaways
• Meet & Greets with your NPD staff
• Patrol Car & Equipment displays

A special thank you to our local partners including Novato Fire Protection district, Marin CHP, Marin Probation, First Responder Therapy Dogs, Veterans of Foreign Wars and more!

This event takes place during the Downtown Novato Community Farmers' Market, so plan ahead and take this opportunity to meet with first responders and enjoy what the market has to offer.

We look forward to seeing you there! 

Novato Permit Connections July Schedule Change

Our next Permit Connections date has been rescheduled due to the July 4 holiday.

Considering an ADU, starting a home project, or opening a new business? Drop into our all-agency permit advice center at 922 Machin Avenue from 9am to 11am on:

• Thursday, July 9

Our full team of Planning, Building, Public Works, Fire, Water, and Sanitary staff are all available to answer questions, move your project forward, or help you get started. No appointment necessary.

Note: Permit Connections will return to its regular schedule on July 16, held on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of every month.

Novato 4th of July Parade

Join us for the annual 4th of July Parade on at 10am on Grant Avenue (between Reichert Avenue and Seventh Street). Bring your chairs and enjoy the parade from the sidewalks along the route! Free pre-parade entertainment starts at 9am. 

Downtown Novato Community Farmers' Market

Join us every Tuesday from May 5 through October 27, from 4pm – 8pm on Sherman Avenue, between Grant and De Long Avenues. (Note: In October, market hours shift to 4pm – 7pm.)

Bring your friends and family to the heart of downtown to enjoy a diverse selection of fresh produce from local farmers, prepared and packaged foods to enjoy at the market or to go, local artisan booths and activities for kids. Come check out all the market has to offer, grab some dinner and shop downtown.

El mercado de agricultores comunitarios del centro de Novato

Únase a nosotros todos los martes del 5 de mayo al 27 de octubre, de 4 p. m. a 8 p. m. en Sherman Avenue, entre las avenidas Grant y De Long. (Nota: en octubre, el horario del mercado pasa a ser de 4 p. m. a 7 p. m.)

Reúnase con sus amigos y familiares en el corazón del centro de la ciudad para disfrutar de una variada selección de productos frescos de agricultores locales, alimentos preparados y envasados para disfrutar en el mercado o para llevar, puestos de artesanos locales y actividades para niños. Venga a ver todo lo que el mercado tiene para ofrecer, cene algo y compre en el centro.

Sustainability

Borrow More Than Books

Did you know your library card can unlock more than books? The Marin County Free Library's (MCFL) Library of Things lets you borrow everything from tools and technology to games, learning kits, and more. Curious about induction cooking? You can even borrow an induction hob to try it out before making the switch at home.

Borrowing or trying before you buy can help reduce waste and keep more money in your wallet! Browse the collection and discover something new to try, learn, build, or enjoy.

World Environment Day

When temperatures climb, keeping your home comfortable doesn't have to mean higher energy bills. Try these small changes can help you stay comfortable, lower your energy use, and save money all summer long:

• Close blinds and curtains during the hottest part of the day
• Set your thermostat a few degrees higher when you're away
• Use a microwave, air fryer, or outdoor grill instead of the oven
• Run dishwashers and washing machines in the evening

Safely Dispose of Hazardous Waste

Have leftover paint, dead batteries, old pesticides, or mystery cleaners? Many common household products contain ingredients that can be toxic, flammable, or corrosive. Dispose of them safely at Novato Sanitary District's Household Hazardous Waste Facility, 7576 Redwood Blvd (open four days a month – check calendar for specific dates). Remember to keep products in their original containers whenever possible, never mix chemicals, and secure items upright in your vehicle to prevent spills.

Novato Fire District Marks 100 Years of Service

This year, the Novato Fire District proudly celebrates 100 years of service to the community.

Established on July 6, 1926, the District has grown alongside Novato, evolving into a modern all-hazards emergency response agency while remaining committed to its mission of caring for, protecting, and serving the community.

Today, the District provides fire suppression, emergency medical services, rescue response, fire prevention, public education, and wildfire preparedness throughout Novato and surrounding unincorporated areas of Marin County.

The Centennial is an opportunity to honor the firefighters, volunteers, support staff, board members, retirees, and community members who have shaped the District over the past century. To commemorate this milestone, the District has also produced a Centennial History Video, available below.

The Novato Fire District thanks the community for its continued support over the past 100 years and looks forward to serving the region for generations to come. 

Pioneer Park Cemetery Tours

Explore Novato's history on a guided walking tour of Pioneer Park Cemetery. Each tour offers a unique look at the people and stories that shaped our community.

Tours are offered monthly through September at Pioneer Park Cemetery, 1007 Simmons Lane. A $10 donation is appreciated, payable at the event. Please note the tour includes some stairs and narrow pathways. Tours are canceled in the event of rain.

2026 Tour Dates: July 18 | August 15 | September 19

First Fridays on Grant

Head to Downtown Novato, between Machin & Reichert Avenues, on July 3 from 5–8pm for First Fridays on Grant! Come enjoy an evening filled with family fun, shopping, food, community and entertainment.

Highlights include:

• Interactive booths, crafts and hands-on activities for kids
• Patio Pop-Up featuring local makers, artisans and unique finds
• Delicious food, sweet treats and refreshing drinks from some of your local favorites

Please note: Grant Avenue will close to vehicle traffic beginning at 4pm to prepare for the event.

Whether you’re looking for a fun family outing, a night out with friends, or a chance to support local businesses, there’s something for everyone at First Fridays.

Marin County Fair

Enjoy five days of fun at the Marin County Fair, located at 10 Avenue of the Flags, July 1 through 5 from 11am to 11pm daily!

Experience a vibrant celebration featuring art and exhibits, barnyard animals, free carnival rides, concerts by Grammy Award-winning artists, local entertainment, and a spectacular fireworks show every night.

The Marin County Fair is where cultures come together, local agriculture and environmental stewardship take center stage, and families and friends create lasting memories across generations.

City of Novato Administrative Offices Holiday Closure

In observance of the Fourth of July holiday, City of Novato Administrative Offices will be closed on Thursday, July 2. City offices will also be closed on Friday, July 3 as part of the City’s regular alternating Friday closure schedule (9/80 schedule).

As always, upcoming City meetings, events and closures can be found online at novato.gov/calendar.

Upcoming City Meetings

The City of Novato encourages community participation at our upcoming public meetings. Meeting details, including information on how to participate, are included in each meeting agenda packet. Agendas are posted at least 72 hours prior to each scheduled meeting. To receive meeting agendas via email and/or text, sign-up at novato.gov/connectwithus.

July 1 at 6pm | Design Review Commission - cancelled

July 2 at 3pm | Economic Development Advisory Commission - cancelled

July 9 at 8am | Finance Advisory Commission

July 9 at 2pm | Zoning Administrator - cancelled

July 9 at 6pm | Recreation, Cultural and Community Services Commission

July 13 at 7pm | Planning Commission

July 14 at 6pm | City Council

July 15 at 5:30pm | Complete Streets & Pathways Oversight Committee

July 15 at 6pm | Design Review Commission

July 16 at 6pm | Sustainability Commission

July 22 at 6pm | Multicultural Advisory Commission

July 23 at 2pm | Zoning Administrator

July 27 at 7pm | Planning Commission

July 28 at 6pm | City Council

We're Hiring — Join Our Team!

Interested in a career in local government? Check out our current openings:

• Assistant Engineer (Full Time) - Application deadline is July 19
• Supervising Code Enforcement Officer (Full Time) - Application deadline is July 19

Please note the following positions will remain open until filled.

Community Development

• Deputy Building Official (Full Time)

Parks, Recreation & Community Services

• Gymnastics Instructor (Part Time)

Police

• Police Cadet (Part Time)
• Police Officer - Lateral/Academy Graduate (Full Time)
• Police Officer Trainee (Full Time)

Top Stories from Our Previous Edition

Eames Institute Coming to Novato - View Conceptual Images

Novato's Tenant Protections Ordinance

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