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January 2026

Welcome to the City of Novato's monthly newsletter! This issue features a message from City Manager Amy Cunningham, a save-the-date for the 2026 State of the City Address, the appointment of Novato's new Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem, new Shop Local Novato campaign, Novato's 66th birthday celebration, Novato Police now hiring police cadets — apply today, Parks & Recreation events, 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.

Message from Novato City Manager Amy Cunningham

Dear Novato Community,

I want to sincerely thank you for your engagement, partnership and support throughout the past year. Our journey together has included meaningful milestones as well as moments of profound loss as we remember our dear friend and community leader, Councilmember Mark Milberg. Even in the hardest moments, I have been inspired by Novato’s resilience and how our community comes together with empathy and unity to support and uplift one another.

We begin this new year with a renewed sense of appreciation for where we’ve been and optimism for where we’re going. In 2025, we adopted the City’s first balanced budget in more than five years, made possible through your support of Measure M. This achievement gives us a strong financial foundation to better address your priorities and to continue to provide the high level of service you deserve. While Measure M plays a key role in our financial strategy, it’s only one part of a broader approach. The City Council’s Strategic Plan emphasizes a wider focus on long-term fiscal sustainability through thoughtful planning, responsible spending, and efforts to grow and diversify City revenues. We’re committed to maintaining essential services while planning responsibly for the future.

Thanks to your continued feedback, we’ve already made progress — and there’s much more ahead.

Mensaje de la administradora municipal, Amy Cunningham

Estimada comunidad de Novato,

Quiero agradecerles sinceramente su compromiso, colaboración y apoyo durante el año pasado. Nuestro camino juntos ha incluido hitos significativos, así como momentos de profunda pérdida al recordar a nuestro querido amigo y líder comunitario, el concejal Mark Milberg. Incluso en los momentos más difíciles, me ha inspirado la resiliencia de Novato y cómo nuestra comunidad se une con empatía y unidad para apoyarse y animarse mutuamente.

Al entrar en el nuevo año, lo hacemos con un renovado sentido de agradecimiento por lo que hemos logrado y con optimismo por lo que nos depara el futuro. En 2025, aprobamos el primer presupuesto equilibrado de la Ciudad en más de cinco años, lo cual fue posible gracias a su apoyo a la Medida M. Este logro nos brinda una base financiera sólida para abordar mejor sus prioridades y continuar brindándole el alto nivel de servicio que se merece. Aunque la Medida M desempeña un papel clave en nuestra estrategia financiera, solo es una parte de un enfoque más amplio. El Plan Estratégico del Concejo Municipal hace hincapié en un enfoque más amplio de la sostenibilidad fiscal a largo plazo mediante una planificación cuidadosa, un gasto responsable y esfuerzos para aumentar y diversificar los ingresos de la Ciudad. Nos comprometemos a mantener los servicios esenciales mientras planificamos de forma responsable el futuro.

Gracias a sus continuos comentarios, ya hemos logrado avances, y aún nos queda mucho por delante.

2026 State of the City Address

Presented by the City of Novato and the Novato Chamber of Commerce, Novato's 2026 State of the City Address will be held at 5pm on Thursday, February 5 at Novato City Hall, 901 Sherman Avenue. Discussion will include a look back on 2025 and highlights of upcoming projects and programs.

Unable to join us in person? You can watch the State of the City live at novato.gov/watchmeetings. A recording of the event will also be available online. This event is FREE and open to the public.

Discurso sobre el estado de la ciudad en 2026

Presentado en colaboración con la ciudad de Novato y la Cámara de Comercio de Novato, el discurso sobre el estado de la ciudad de Novato en 2026 se hará presencialmente a las 5pm el jueves 5 de febrero en la municipalidad de Novato, 901 Sherman Avenue. El discurso incluirá una mirada para atrás al 2025 y detalles destacados de los próximos proyectos y programas para el año nuevo.

¿No puede asistir en persona? También puede mirar el discurso sobre el estado de la Ciudad en vivo en novato.gov/watchmeetings. Una grabación del evento también estará disponible. Este evento es GRATIS y abierto al público.

New Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem Appointed

At its reorganization meeting on December 16, 2025, the Novato City Council appointed Mayor Pro Tem Rachel Farac to serve as Mayor and Councilmember Kevin Jacobs as Mayor Pro Tem. Each will serve in that capacity for one year.

“Sitting here today as Mayor of Novato is one of the greatest honors of my life,” said newly appointed Mayor Farac. “I am here because you believed in a shared vision — a Novato that grows thoughtfully, listens carefully and leads with heart. We’ve accomplished so much together already, and I am excited for what’s ahead.”

The first meeting of the newly reorganized City Council will be held January 13, 2026.

City of Novato Supports Small Businesses through Shop Local Novato Campaign

The City of Novato is excited to shine a spotlight on some the incredible small businesses that make our community vibrant, unique, and full of homegrown charm. City staff recently installed new Shop Local Novato lamppost banners along Grant Avenue, proudly featuring more than 50 Novato businesses — from San Marin to Hamilton and everywhere in between. 

The banners are part of the City’s Shop Local Novato initiative, which encourages local spending and supports the shops, restaurants and service providers that bring heart, character and connection to every Novato neighborhood.

This project was 100% Novato local - from start to finish! A huge thank you to Kiosk Agency for the vibrant banner design and project coordination, to Matt from Prismic Photography for capturing our newly featured businesses so beautifully, and to Centric Signs for printing the banners.

Shop Local Novato continues to celebrate and uplift Novato’s entrepreneurial spirit – locally loved, Novato grown.

Paint the Town Red: Novato's 66th Birthday Celebration

You're invited to join the Paint the Town Red Committee to celebrate Novato's 66th birthday on Saturday, January 24 from 5pm – 8pm at the Bill and Adele Jonas Center, 1800 Ignacio Boulevard.

Enjoy a Taste of Novato, featuring appetizers and desserts from local Novato restaurants. Festivities include recognition of the Novato Citizen of the Year, Spirit of Novato award winner, NUSD Employees of the Year, Novato Chamber Businesses of the Year, and Novato Police Department & Novato Fire District Employees of the Year.

The all-volunteer, non-profit Paint the Town Red Committee organizes and hosts this celebration to honor local community members who make Novato a great place to live. For more information, please email info@paintthetownred.org. 

Novato Police Department Now Hiring Police Cadets

Part-time police cadets play a key role in supporting daily police operations, from traffic and parking enforcement to writing reports and attending special events. Cadets gain hands-on experience, learn about law enforcement, and work closely with sworn officers, all while maintaining a flexible schedule of 15–20 hours per week.

This is an excellent opportunity for college students interested in a career in law enforcement. Many former cadets have been hired as full-time Novato Police employees. Apply today! Applications close February 1.

Marin School of the Arts String Orchestra Performance

Join us Tuesday, January 13 at 2:45pm for a FREE captivating performance by the Marin School of the Arts String Orchestra at the Margaret Todd Senior Center, 1560 Hill Road.

Experience the talent of 17 string instrument student musicians as they weave classical and contemporary melodies into a mesmerizing 30-45 minute set.

RSVPs are encouraged but not mandatory. Call (415) 899-8290 or visit the front desk of the Senior Center to secure your spot.

Lunar New Year Luncheon

Join us for a Lunar New Year luncheon on Wednesday, February 4 at 12pm at the Margaret Todd Senior Center, 1560 Hill Road, as we celebrate the year of the horse! The menu will include vegetable chow mein, sweet & sour pork, chicken with mixed vegetables, white rice, and spring rolls.

$16 for members and $18 for non-members. Register below or in person at the Senior Center front desk. Registration closes February 2 at 4pm. No refunds given after February 2.

Spring Magic Show

Get ready for a day of enchantment on Saturday, February 28 at Novato City Hall, 901 Sherman Avenue! Join Novato Parks & Recreation for a FREE Spring Magic Show and immerse yourself in a world of wonder and amazement.

To accommodate everyone, we're offering two time slots — 10am or 11:30am. No reservations required, so simply pick the time that works best for you and witness the magic right before your eyes.

Questions? Please call 415.899.8290. 

Margaret Todd Senior Center 2026 Membership

Margaret Todd Senior Center 2026 membership applications are now available. Membership is just $42 per year and offers over fifteen unique activity groups to participate in, including bridge, mah jong, watercolor, bocce ball and more. Membership also includes discounts on themed catered lunches, access to our popular puzzle nook and lending library, and a monthly newsletter either emailed or paper mailed to you. Apply at the Margaret Todd Senior Center, or download the fillable form.

Be Ready. Stay Safe. Emergency Preparedness Training Returns to Novato

Emergencies can happen at any time — will you be ready? Ready Marin, Marin County's emergency preparedness program, is bringing hands-on training back to Novato on Wednesday, January 28 from 2:30-4pm at the Margaret Todd Senior Center, 1560 Hill Road.

What You'll Learn:

• Hands-only CPR
• How to use a fire extinguisher with confidence
• Practical emergency skills
• Steps to prepare for disasters in your community

This hands-on training will give you the skills and confidence to respond when it matters most. Plus, FREE go bags are available for participants (limited to one per household) containing a flashlight, water bottle, mask, gloves and various other emergency supplies. Space is limited, register today!

This event is hosted by Age and Disability Friendly Novato in partnership with the City of Novato and Marin County's Office of Emergency Management.

Novato Permit Connections January Schedule Changes

Friendly reminder that the next Novato Permit Connections has been rescheduled for Thursday, January 22 from 9am - 11am.

Considering an ADU, starting a home project, opening a new business or renovating an existing commercial space? Drop into our all-agency permit advice center, located at 922 Machin Avenue, from 9am to 11am.

A 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: Novato Permit Connections will return to its regular schedule in February, held on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of every month. 

Reminder: Apply for Our Utility Box Art Program

We're still accepting applications for the second year of Novato's Utility Box Art Program! Following the successful transformation of seven utility boxes along Grant Avenue in 2025, we're expanding with seven new locations along Redwood Boulevard and South Novato Boulevard.

Under the theme "Where Stories Grow," artists are invited to capture what makes Novato special - from our natural beauty and local traditions to our heritage and community spirit. Selected artists will receive up to $1,000 in materials reimbursement. Priority given to Novato residents.

To apply, submit a completed application form, conceptual rendering, and up to three images of prior work by February 22, 2026.

PG&E Utility Undergrounding Project: Eastbound Closure Continues

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:

• Monday to Friday | 8am – 5pm
• Saturdays | 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? Contact PG&E Outreach Specialist John Baston at (707) 867-9466.

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

Sustainability

Embrace a Healthy, Low-Carbon Future

Marin residents have reduced an estimated 14.7 million pounds of carbon emissions per year by participating in Resilient Neighborhoods' Climate Action Workshops. You can make an impact too! Participants will learn about their personal carbon footprint, create a customized Climate Action Plan, connect with other like-minded Marin residents, and receive ongoing support to cost-effectively put your plan into action.

The next series begins January 14, and workshops are held every other week for five weeks.

Sustainable Wardrobe Refresh

As temperatures drop, winter shopping rises, but ‘fast fashion’ and changing trends creates significant clothing waste. Globally, roughly 80 billion garments are purchased each year, with the average item worn just seven times! This winter, refresh your wardrobe sustainably by trying a few simple strategies:

• Mend & Repair: Fix broken zippers or holes instead of tossing them.
• Shop Secondhand: Visit Novato’s thrift stores for clothing ready for a second life.
• Host a Clothing Swap: Swap gently used items with friends or neighbors

Planting for Pollinators

Pollinators like bees, butterflies, and birds are vital to ecosystems and food production, but their populations are declining due to habitat loss, pesticides, and climate change. One of the easiest ways to help is by planting a pollinator-friendly garden.

By choosing native plants that bloom year-round, avoiding pesticides, and adding simple water sources, you can create a welcoming habitat for pollinators and other wildlife—even small patios or balconies make a difference. Winter is a great time to support local nurseries and start planting.

Six Actions to Support Our Environment

Small actions can make a big difference when practiced community-wide. Follow these habits to conserve resources and reduce pollution in Novato:

1. Choose reusables to cut down on single-use plastics.
2. Walk, bike, carpool, or combine trips.
3. Turn off lights, adjust thermostats, and utilize natural light.
4. Plan your meals, store food properly and compost to reduce food waste
5. Support pollinators and trees by planting and caring for native plants.
6. Recycle and compost correctly and choose minimal packaging items

PG&E Extends Match My Payment Program

In an ongoing effort to support customers facing financial hardship, PG&E is extending its Match My Payment Program into 2026 while funds last.

The PG&E Match My Payment Program offers a dollar-for-dollar match of up to $1,000 to help qualifying low- to moderate-income customers pay past-due energy bills and avoid service disconnections.

This effort is part of a $50 million commitment to assist income-eligible customers in reducing outstanding balances through PG&E’s Match My Payment and REACH programs.

REACH provides emergency bill credits of up to $300 for eligible customers facing disconnection. To date, PG&E has distributed more than $9.4 million. Customers may receive multiple matches throughout the year by paying at least $50 toward a past-due balance of $100 or more, with eligibility based on federal income guidelines.

Funds are limited — apply today!

Keep Your Pet Safe with Marin Humane's New Pet Licensing Program

Did you know that rabies vaccinations and dog licenses are mandatory in Marin County? In fact, dog licenses are mandatory in nearly every community across North America. Why? Because licenses help keep pets and the communities they live in safe.

Marin Humane Society has a new, easy-to-use platform, which offers residents an effective pet identification and reunification program that keeps pets out of shelters and returns them home safely. Marin County licensing tags are assigned a unique code which links to a pet’s secure online profile, making it easy for anyone who finds a lost pet to reference the code and create a Found Pet Report in seconds. Pet owners can also create Lost Pet Reports as soon as they realize their pet has gone missing. Dedicated dispatch staff are available 24/7 to reunite lost pets with their families.

Discounts are available for owners whose pets are spayed or neutered, as well as owners who are seniors (62+) or disabled. 100% of licensing revenue goes towards animal services in Marin!

City of Novato Administrative Offices Holiday Closure

The City of Novato Administrative Offices will be closed Monday, January 19 in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

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.

January 12 at 7pm | Planning Commission - cancelled

January 13 at 6pm | City Council

January 15 at 6pm | Sustainability Commission

January 21 at 5:30pm | Complete Streets & Pathways Oversight Committee

January 21 at 6pm | Design Review Commission

January 22 at 2pm | Zoning Administrator

January 26 at 7pm | Planning Commission

January 27 at 6pm | City Council

January 28 at 6pm | Multicultural Advisory Commission

We're Hiring — Join Our Team!

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

• Police Cadet (Part Time) - Application deadline is Sunday, February 1
• Accounting Assistant I/II (Full Time) - Application deadline is Sunday, February 8

Please note the following positions will remain open until filled.

Community Development

• Building Plan Examiner I/II (Full Time)

Parks, Recreation & Community Services

• Gymnastics Instructor (Part Time)

Police

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

Public Works

• Associate Engineer (Full Time)

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