September 2025

Welcome to the City of Novato's monthly newsletter! This issue features the upcoming launch of Novato's new online permit portal, demolition of the former Fireman's Fund campus, City's approval of POA labor agreements, tips for Pedestrian Safety Month, a small business networking event, Novato Blvd closure reminder, Parks & Recreation updates, and more!

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

New Online Permit Portal Launching October 1

The City is excited to announce the upcoming launch of Novato Permits, a new online permit portal that will streamline the permitting process, making it easier for residents, contractors, and businesses to apply for permits, track progress, and communicate with City staff — all from the comfort of their home or office.

Important Transition Dates

To prepare for the launch:

• 9/25-9/30: No new applications accepted as we transition to the new system
• Applications submitted prior to 9/25 will be migrated to the new system
• 10/1: All permit applications will be accepted through our new system 
• Email applications sent to permitcenter@novato.org will no longer be accepted.

Starting October 1, the new portal will be available at novato.org/permits.

Questions? We're here to help! More information is available at novato.org/permits. If you have any questions, please contact Community Development staff at 415.899.8989 or email us at permitinfo@novato.org. 

Demolition of Former Fireman's Fund Campus Makes Way for New Affordable Housing

Bay West Development plans to begin demolition of the former Fireman’s Fund campus on or after September 8, 2025. Start date is tentative and subject to change. The demolition process will include removing the existing office buildings, parking lots, on-site utilities, man-made pond, landscaping, and other constructed improvements within the area bounded by East Campus Drive, West Campus Drive, and San Marin Drive.

Permitted demolition hours:

• Weekdays from 7am to 6pm
• Saturdays from 10am to 5pm

*Demolition work is prohibited on Sundays and federal holidays, unless authorized by the Community Development Director.

Demolition marks the first step toward transforming the long-vacant campus into new affordable and market-rate housing for Novato.

Questions? Contact Deputy Community Development Director Steve Marshall at (415) 899-8942 or smarshall@novato.org.

City Approves Labor Agreements with Novato Police Associations

The Novato City Council has approved labor agreements with the Novato Police Officers Association (POA) and the Novato Police Manager’s Association (PMA). The POA represents the City’s sworn police officers and corporals, while the PMA represents sergeants, lieutenants and captains. Together, these associations comprise 27% of the City’s workforce.

The three-year agreements, covering July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2028, include the same base terms offered to the City’s other employee groups. 

Step Up for Safer Streets: September is Pedestrian Safety Month

September is Pedestrian Safety Month, and the Novato Police Department (NPD) will be taking part in activities throughout the month to promote the safety of people walking in our community.

The Governors Highway Safety Association projects that 7,148 pedestrians were killed in traffic crashes across the United States in 2024. In California, pedestrians account for more than 24% of all traffic-related fatalities.

To help reduce these numbers, NPD encourages everyone to follow safe driving and walking tips:

Drivers:

• Do not speed. Slow down at intersections. Be prepared to stop for pedestrians at marked and unmarked crosswalks.
• Avoid blocking crosswalks while waiting to make a right-hand turn.
• Never drive impaired, avoid distractions and focus on the road.

Pedestrians:

• Be predictable. Use signalized crosswalks where drivers may anticipate foot traffic.
• Watch for approaching vehicles and practice due care crossing the street. At 30 mph, a driver needs at least 90 feet to stop.
• Make it easier for drivers to see you at night – consider wearing bright colors, reflective material, or use a flashlight when practical.
• Be careful crossing streets or entering crosswalks at night or on busier streets with higher speed limits.

Novato Small Business Networking Event: Marketing Strategies for Holiday Sales & Year-Round Success

Join City of Novato Economic Development Advisory Commission, the Novato Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Novato Business Association and Marin Small Business Development Center for a lively, in-person networking event on Thursday, October 23 from 5pm - 7:30pm at Novato City Hall, 901 Sherman Avenue. This is an opportunity for local business owners come together to connect, share ideas, and discover what’s actually working in today’s marketing landscape.

You’ll learn simple, effective marketing strategies to boost your holiday sales and keep customers coming back in the new year.

Event highlights:

• Facilitated networking to build real relationships
• A dynamic expert discussion from both retail and service marketing perspectives
• Actionable takeaways you can implement right away

This event is free and welcome to all. 

Traffic Advisory Reminder: Novato Blvd PG&E Utility Undergrounding Project

The eastbound lane of Novato Blvd will continue to be closed between 7th Street and Diablo Avenue for PG&E's utility undergrounding project.

Permitted work hours are Monday to Friday from 8am – 5pm and Saturdays from 10am – 5pm.

Detours are in place — please use Center Road or Grant Avenue as alternate routes. Access to homes and businesses will be maintained during closure hours. Expect traffic delays and drive with caution. All work is tentative and subject to change.

Questions or comments? Please contact Rapid Grading Services directly at 510.736.7918 or info@rapidgradingservices.com. 

We appreciate your patience as we work to improve your streets. 

Register for Fall & Winter Fun with Novato Parks & Recreation

Fall + Winter registration is OPEN! View the Activity Guide at novatofun.org and register for Novato Fun at novato.org/regforfun!

Explore a variety of programs for all ages, from youth sports and performing arts to adult leagues and senior activities. Highlights include exciting events like Movies at Pocket Park, Hamilton Pool's Floating Pumpkin Patch, Teen Paint Nights, a Día de los Muertos Celebration, and the Holiday Crafts Faire at the Margaret Todd Senior Center. Whether you're interested in basketball, dance, LEGO workshops, or holiday events, there's something for everyone.

Continue to make a splash at the Hamilton Pool this Fall! Current season memberships are good through September 14. Make sure to take advantage of your remaining visits before the summer season concludes. Our extended Fall Season runs from September 14 through October 11, giving you nearly a month of additional pool time. Please note that our fall season operates on reduced hours, so be sure to check novato.org/hamiltonpool for the latest updates.

Questions? Contact us at 415.899.8979 or novatofun@novato.org. 

Movies at Pocket Park

Novato Parks & Recreation will be hosting two FREE outdoor movies this fall at Pocket Park, located at 950 Seventh Street. We'll be featuring A Bug's Life on Saturday, September 13. The movie will begin about 15 minutes after sunset, around 7:30pm. Guests are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs, blankets, and a picnic dinner to enjoy during the show. 

The next movie will be held on October 4 and will feature Brave. Stay tuned! 

Fall Trash to Treasure Flea Market

Join us for the Fall Trash to Treasures Flea Market on Saturday, September 27 from 9am-2pm at the Margaret Todd Senior Center (MTSC). The market is held indoors, rain or shine and admission is free.

Although the vendor application period is now closed, applications are still being accepted for the waitlist. All applications must be returned to the Margaret Todd Senior Center at 1560 Hill Road. 

3rd Annual Floating Pumpkin Patch

Registration is NOW OPEN for the 3rd annual Floating Pumpkin Patch on Saturday, October 11 from 12pm-2pm at the Hamilton Pool. Register today—spots float away fast!

Each ticket includes pool entry, a pumpkin, and decorating materials. Registration closes October 8 - no drop-ins or walk-ups. Food from Tommy's Salsa will be available for purchase starting at 12pm.

Not-So-Scary Halloween Magic Show

Join us for a frightfully fun adventure in Downtown Novato on Saturday, October 18! The City of Novato Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department is conjuring up some Halloween fun with two Not-So-Scary Magic Shows at 10am and 11:30am at City Hall. No reservations are required, so simply pick the time that suits you best. Doors open 30 minutes prior to the start time. Mark your calendars for this free spooktacular event—you won’t want to miss it!

Halloween Paint Night

Get ready for a spook-tacular evening of creativity and fun! Join us for a Halloween-themed Teen Paint Night on Friday, October 24 at 6:15pm at the Downtown Recreation Center, 950 7th Street.

Your teen will enjoy eerie-sistible seasonal snacks and beverages while bringing their masterpiece to life. All painting supplies included. An instructor will guide your teen step-by-step through the process. This Teen Paint Night promises to be frightfully fun! Don’t miss out.

Youth Basketball League

The City of Novato, in partnership with North Bay Basketball Academy (NBBA), is excited to offer a dynamic Youth Basketball League with three age divisions (ages 7-8, 9-11, and 12-14) perfect for both beginners and experienced players! Our goal is to create a fun and supportive environment where every child can learn, grow, and develop their skills in the game of basketball.

Volunteer coaches needed! Email Sarah Bailey, Recreation Coordinator, at sbailey@novato.org to get involved.

Novato Gymnastics Center Voted Best in Marin 2025

We’re honored to be voted Best Children’s Indoor Sports Center in Marin 2025 for the 4th year in a row (7th overall)! Our goal is to help kids grow strong, confident, and coordinated through gymnastics. Whether your child is just starting out or has already mastered cartwheels, gymnastics is a fantastic way to build balance⁠, strength, coordination⁠, spatial awareness, and foundational movement patterns.

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Fall classes are in full swing! To inquire about availability and to enroll, contact the Novato Gymnastics Center at (415) 899-8279 or gymnastics@novato.org.

2025 Holiday Crafts Faire

Novato Parks & Recreation will be hosting its annual Holiday Crafts Faire on Friday, December 5 from 6pm-9pm, and Saturday, December 6 from 10am-4pm at the Margaret Todd Senior Center.

This event features a diverse selection of handmade crafts from over 55 talented artisans, live entertainment, and delicious food.

Downtown Novato Community Farmers’ Market

The Downtown Novato Farmers’ Market is held every Tuesday on Sherman Avenue between Grant and De Long Avenues, May - September from 4–8pm and 4–7pm throughout October.

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 regresa

El mercado de agricultores del centro de Novato se celebra todos los martes en Sherman Avenue entre Grant y De Long Avenues, de 4 a 8 p. m. (del 6 de mayo al 30 de septiembre) y de 4 a 7 p. m. durante todo octubre.

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. 

Rock the Block: End of Summer Edition

Get ready to Rock the Block on Thursday, September 11 from 6pm to 9pm! Join the Downtown Novato Business Association on Grant Avenue between Reichert and Machin Avenues for this FREE street party featuring the Soul Section.

Enjoy food, drinks, and extended hours at local restaurants.

Traffic Advisory: Grant Avenue will be closed from 4pm to 10pm between Reichert and Machin Avenues

Sustainability

Climate Action Booth at Farmers' Market

City staff will host a Climate Action Booth at the Downtown Novato Community Farmers’ Market on Tuesday, September 9 from 4–8pm on Sherman Avenue. Learn ways to reduce your environmental impact, minimize waste, and save money.

Staff will also share updates on the draft Climate Action Plan 2030 (being presented to Council on 9/23) including upcoming programs and policies that support clean energy, sustainable transportation, and waste reduction in Novato.

Free Climate Action Workshops

Small shifts in our personal choices can lead to significant change. Sign up today for Resilient Neighborhoods fun, engaging, and FREE workshop series to explore the actions you can take, from quick wins to big shifts. They make it easy by helping you craft a personalized Climate Action Plan and providing no-cost, ongoing support to implement your plan.

Choose from one of two workshop series, starting on Thursday, September 11 or Wednesday, September 17.

New Lanes, New Gains. Join the HOV Diamond Dozen Challenge

With 52 miles of continuous High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes between Marin and Sonoma targeted to open in mid-September, it's more convenient than ever to carpool, vanpool or take transit. To celebrate, Marin Commutes and GoSonoma Commutes are launching the HOV Diamond Dozen Challenge, running September 1–October 31. Commuters to and from Marin can log shared trips for more chances to earn rewards.

MCE Cares Credit Extended

As part of its energy bill relief efforts, the MCE Board has extended the MCE Cares Credit through March 2026, and eligible customers can receive $20–$25 off their monthly electricity bills. The program provides extra savings for MCE customers enrolled in PG&E’s California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) or Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) programs, as well as for small businesses on A1 and B1 rates. Funding is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. MCE also offers a variety of other programs to help you lower your energy bill and save money!

Marin Green Home Tour

Want to make your home healthier and more sustainable? On Saturday, September 27, from 11am–3pm, tour Marin County homes that are leading the way—ranging from brand-new builds to older homes transitioning from gas to all-electric. Tour hosts will share their experiences with choosing appliances, working with contractors, and tapping into rebates and tax credits. You’ll see upgrades in action like heat pumps, induction stoves, EVs, solar panels, and rainwater systems — plus get practical tips to make your own transition affordable and achievable.

Ember Stomp 2025

Join Fire Safe Marin and Marin Wildfire for Ember Stomp 2025 on Saturday, September 6 from 10am - 4pm at the Marin Center Fairgrounds, 10 Avenue of the Flags in San Rafael.

This free, family-friendly wildfire prevention festival celebrates community preparedness with hands-on activities, live burning demonstrations, music, food, and resources to help keep our homes and neighborhoods safe. The Novato Fire District will be on-site with tips, tools, and activities for all ages. Don’t miss it!

Suicide Prevention & Recovery Month

September is Suicide Prevention & Recovery Month, which is celebrated every year to spread awareness of this important and preventable health issue. During this month, Marin County Behavioral Health & Recovery Services (BHRS) and community-based partners come together to host virtual and in-person events for our community, including allies, providers, educators, students, loss survivors, and more.

Featured Events:

Marin County Suicide Prevention Collaborative: 5 Years of Hope & Healing

September 10 from 6pm - 8pm | Homeward Bound of Marin, 1385 N. Hamilton Parkway

Hablemos sobre la prevención del suicidio

15 de septiembre de 18h a 19h | En Zoom | Regístrate aquí: Silvia Albuja at (707) 408-3657

Recognize & Respond: A Parent's Guide to Youth Suicide Prevention

September 17 from 6pm - 7pm | On Zoom

Crisis Response in Marin County: How does it work?

September 23 from 6pm - 7:15pm | On Zoom

S.A.V.E. Training: How to Help a Veteran in Crisis

September 25 from 12pm - 1:15pm | On Zoom

In addition to these events, Marin BHRS promotes their grassroots campaign, “Ask. Listen. Connect.”, which is designed to support you with the skills to talk directly and openly about suicidality. Each one of us can play a life-saving role by talking openly and being a connection to Hope and Help. 

Museum of the American Indian Trade Feast: Connection. Community. Cultural Exchange.

The Museum of the American Indian Trade Feast returns for the first time since 2019 on Sunday, October 12 from 10am - 3pm at Miwok Park, 2200 Novato Blvd. Enjoy a celebration of food, dance, cultural demonstrations, arts + crafts, TEK (traditional ecological knowledge) activities for kids, and connection to the Land.

Native community members are invited to share oral histories, connect with Elders, and take part in the Indigenous Heritage Storytelling Project (participation reserved for Native community). These stories will be preserved in a documentary film and future exhibit.

Admission is free and all are warmly welcome!

Nostalgia Days Classic Car Show

Join Downtown Novato Business Association for the 28th Annual Nostalgia Days Classic Car Show on Saturday, October 11 from 10am - 4pm. Enjoy live music while you admire classic cars, hot rods and customs followed by an award ceremony to the end of the day. FREE admission.

This event includes a Friday Night Hot Rod Cruise on Friday, October 10 at 5pm through Downtown Novato.

Novato Historical Guild: Quarterly Membership Meeting

The Novato Historical Guild will hold their quarterly membership meeting on Saturday, September 13 from 10am to 12pm at the Hamilton Field Museum, 555 Hangar Avenue. Featured speaker, Darren Walton, a Vietnam war hero and award-winning author, will present his talk "From an Idyllic Novato Childhood to the Jungles of Vietnam and Beyond". Walton will reflect on growing up in Novato and recount his life-changing experience as a U.S. Marine recon, one of the military's most dangerous roles. This event is free and open to the public.

Halloween Pioneer Park Cemetery Tour

Join the Novato Historical Guild for a fascinating journey through history at Pioneer Park on Friday, October 31 from 4:30pm - 6pm. Explore the stories of the pioneers who shaped our community, learn about their lives, and uncover the secrets of the past.

This in-person event is a unique opportunity to connect with the past and discover the rich heritage of our city. Please note that the tour consists of some stairs and narrow pathways. A $10 donation is greatly appreciated, payable at the event.

Interested in learning more about Novato's history? The Novato Historical Guild operates two museums — Novato History Museum, located at 815 DeLong Avenue, and The Hamilton Field History Museum, located at 555 Hangar Avenue. Both museums are open Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 12-4pm. For more information, please call 415.382.8614 or go to novatohistory.org.

North Marin Community Services Emergency Rental Assistance Program

Do you live in Novato and need help paying your rent? Whether your name is on the lease or you are renting a room, you may qualify for assistance if your household income qualifies according to HUD guidelines.

To find out how you may be eligible for Rental Assistance, contact Ceci Olmedo at 415.897.4147 ext 0 or info@northmarincs.org.

Para saber cómo puede ser eligible para asistencia de alquiler, comuníquese con Ceci Olmedo al numero 415.897.4147 ext 0 o info@northmarincs.org.

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.org/connectwithus.

September 8 at 7pm | Planning Commission

September 9 at 6pm | City Council

September 10 at 5pm | Housing and Homeless Committee

September 11 at 2pm | Zoning Administrator - cancelled

September 11 at 6pm | Recreation, Cultural & Community Services Commission - cancelled

September 17 at 5:30pm | Complete Streets & Pathways Oversight Committee

September 17 at 7pm | Design Review Commission

September 22 at 7pm | Planning Commission

September 23 at 6pm | City Council

September 24 at 6pm | Multicultural Advisory Commission

September 25 at 2pm | Zoning Administrator

September 25 at 6pm | Sustainability Commission

We're Hiring — Join Our Team!

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

New! Senior Office Assistant (Full Time) - Application deadline is Sunday, September 21

Please note the following positions will remain open until filled.

Administrative Services

• New! Deputy Director of Finance (Full Time)

Community Development

• Plan Check Engineer (Full Time)
• Senior Building Inspector (Full Time)

Police

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

Public Works

• Associate Engineer (Full Time)

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