April 2025

Welcome to the City of Novato's monthly newsletter! This issue features a series of upcoming community budget conversations, Novato's new Assistant City Manager; SAFE Team partnership and ribbon-cutting ceremony; budget updates; upcoming State of the City address; 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.

Shaping Novato’s City Budget through Community Conversations

Your voice matters in guiding Novato’s City Budget development for fiscal year 2025-2026. Join City Manager Amy Cunningham, Assistant City Manager Carla Hansen and Finance Director Carla Carvalho-Degraff for a series of community conversations. This is your opportunity to learn about the budget, ask questions and provide valuable feedback. 

• Monday, April 28 | 11am to 12pm Marin Coffee Roasters, 466 Ignacio Boulevard

• Saturday, May 3 | 10am to 11am Creekside Bakery, 1719 Grant Avenue

• Tuesday, May 6 | 4pm to 8pm Downtown Novato Community Farmers’ Market on Sherman Avenue

Together, through meaningful conversations, we can continue shaping Novato’s future and strengthen our community.

Conversaciones con la comunidad para elaborar el Presupuesto de la Ciudad de Novato

Su voz es importante para guiar el desarrollo del Presupuesto de la Ciudad de Novato para el año fiscal 2025-2026. Únase a la Administradora Municipal Amy Cunningham, la asistente de la Administradora Municipal Carla Hansen y la Directora de Finanzas Carla Carvalho-Degraff para una serie de conversaciones con la comunidad. Esta es su oportunidad de informarse sobre el presupuesto, hacer preguntas y aportar valiosos comentarios. 

• Lunes 28 de abril | 11 a. m. a 12 p. m. Marin Coffee Roasters, 466 Ignacio Boulevard

• Sábado 3 de mayo | 10 a. m. a 11 a. m. Creekside Bakery, 1719 Grant Avenue

• Martes 6 de mayo | 4 p. m. a 8 p. m. Mercado de agricultores comunitarios del centro de Novato en Sherman Avenue

Juntos, a través de conversaciones significativas, podemos continuar dando forma al futuro de Novato y fortalecer nuestra comunidad.

Novato Welcomes Carla Hansen as Assistant City Manager

The City of Novato is pleased to announce the hiring of Carla Hansen as its next Assistant City Manager. Following a competitive recruitment process, Hansen has been appointed to oversee Economic Development, Communications, Human Resources, and special projects including the City’s Strategic Plan initiatives.

Hansen first served Novato nearly a decade ago as a Management Analyst and is a graduate of the Leadership Novato Class of 2015. She has spent the last 10 years serving the City of Walnut Creek, where she most recently held the position of Deputy City Manager. 

“Novato is a vibrant and welcoming community, rich in history and civic pride, and I am excited to return,” said Hansen. “I look forward to working closely with our community, City Council and staff to address the needs and priorities of our residents and businesses.”

Novato Welcomes SAFE Team

As part of Novato’s ongoing commitment to enhancing access to essential resources and support services for those in need, the City is proud to announce that the SAFE (Specialized Assistance for Everyone) Team is now serving our community. This initiative aims to provide critical assistance to community members experiencing mental health challenges, substance abuse issues, and homelessness.

This mobile crisis response team, composed of civilian first responders, offers a compassionate and specialized approach to crisis response, prevention and intervention. The SAFE Team delivers comprehensive, trauma-informed services, including:

• Emergency response: Addressing mental health crises, addiction, and homelessness
• Non-emergency support: Assisting individuals in need of conflict resolution, welfare checks, low-level medical aid, and substance abuse counseling
• Proactive outreach: Building connections with community members to provide early intervention before crises escalate

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Join Novato City Council, SAFE Team members and City staff for an official Ribbon Cutting Ceremony welcoming the SAFE Team on Tuesday, April 8 at 5:30pm in front of the City Administrative Offices, 922 Machin Avenue.

Council Votes to Strengthen Novato’s Reserves with Mid-Year Budget Adjustments

At their March 25 meeting, the Novato City Council approved key budget adjustments aimed at reinforcing the City’s long-term financial stability and addressing community priorities.

As part of the Fiscal Year 2024/25 Mid-Year Budget Report, Council authorized the following allocations from Measure M funds for the current fiscal year:

• Replenish the Emergency and Disaster Recovery Reserves
• Increase the Self Insurance Reserve
• Fund critical community-identified needs including roadway & pothole repairs, parks & facilities maintenance, and wildfire mitigation efforts such as weed abatement

These strategic investments reflect the City’s commitment to financial sustainability while improving essential infrastructure and services for our community.

2025 State of the City Address

Presented by the Novato Chamber of Commerce, Novato's 2025 State of the City Address will be held at 5pm on Thursday, April 24 at Novato City Hall, 901 Sherman Avenue. Discussion will include a look back on 2024 and highlights of upcoming projects and programs.

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

Discurso sobre el estado de la ciudad en 2025

Presentado cada ano por la Cámara de Comercio de Novato, el discurso sobre el estado de la ciudad de Novato en 2025 se hará presencialmente en la municipalidad de Novato, 901 Sherman Avenue a las 5pm el Jueves 24 de Abril. El discurso incluirá una mirada para atrás al 2024 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.org/watchmeetings. Una grabación del evento también estará disponible. Este evento es GRATIS y abierto al público.

Parks & Recreation Summer Camps and Programs

Registration for Novato Parks & Recreation’s Summer activities is now open! From classic favorites like Camp Ton-Of-Fun and Gymnastics Camps to specialty camps in chess, theater, LEGO engineering, and more—there’s something for every child.

The Hamilton Pool opens May 24, with season passes, swim lessons, and daily admission options available starting May 6.

Adults and seniors can enjoy summer programming at Margaret Todd Senior Center, including yoga, dance, and game groups. Plus, don’t miss out on adult sports leagues like cornhole, volleyball, and softball, or our new Teen & Adult Open Gym Basketball at Hill Gym.

Questions? Call 415.899.8279 or email novatofun@novato.org.

Spring & Summer Adult Athletics

This spring, adults have exciting opportunities to stay active and engaged with a variety of leagues and open gym sessions offered by Novato Parks & Recreation, including Cornhole, Softball, Basketball and more. Don’t miss these exciting opportunities. Gather your team and register today!

Margaret Todd Senior Center (MTSC) Chapters & Chats Book Club

The Chapters and Chats book club selection for April is The Maid by Nita Prose, a charming cozy murder mystery filled with intrigue and heart. Join us for a lively discussion on Wednesday, April 30 from 10am – 11am at the MTSC in Meeting Room 3. We look forward to sharing thoughts, insights, and good company as we dive into this delightful read. For more information, call the MTSC at 415.899.8290 or email us at novatofun@novato.org.

Spectrum Safety Event

Join us for a fun day with friends from a galaxy far, far away on Saturday, April 26 from 12pm – 2pm at Pocket Park, 950 7th Street. The Novato Spectrum Safety Event focuses on connecting our adaptive needs community to our Novato First Responders and other valuable resources in our City and County to continue to build strong relationships within our community.

The event will feature out of this world activities geared specifically for participants with adaptive needs provided by local partner agencies who directly support the adaptive needs community.

Community Budget Workshop Available to View Online

On March 27, the City held an in person Community Budget workshop at Novato City Hall that was also live-streamed at novato.org/watchmeetings. The workshop included a presentation on the budget development process, Operating Budget and Capital Improvement Program, followed by a community Q&A.

Click play to watch the recording of the workshop.

Council Approves Affordable Housing Grant to Support Habitat for Humanity Project

At their March 11 meeting, Council unanimously approved grant funding for Habitat for Humanity Greater San Francisco’s 80-unit affordable housing project, Habitat Redwood Boulevard. This impactful project, located on a 13.6-acre lot at 8161 Redwood Boulevard, will expand affordable homeownership opportunities in Novato and is the largest of its kind in California.

“This project is a significant step forward in our ongoing efforts to expand affordable housing opportunities for local families,” said Mayor Tim O’Connor. “We are proud to partner with Habitat for Humanity Greater San Francisco to bring this project to life and remain committed to providing safe, affordable housing that meets the needs of our community. By investing in attainable housing, we are investing in the future of Novato.”

Downtown Novato Community Farmers’ Market Returns May 6

The Downtown Novato Farmers’ Market will return on May 6! Join us every Tuesday on Sherman Avenue between Grant and De Long Avenues, from 4–8pm (May 6–September 30) 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 6 de mayo

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. 

Celebrate Diversity Month with Lotería Game Night

Join the City of Novato’s Multicultural Advisory Commission for an interactive Cultural Game Night featuring Lotería, a traditional Mexican game similar to bingo.

This special event will feature a Novato-themed version of the game. Learn about Lotería's rich cultural history, then try your luck in multiple rounds of gameplay suitable for all ages.

The event takes place Wednesday, April 23 at 6pm at Novato City Hall. No previous experience needed – just bring your enthusiasm and be ready to call "¡Lotería!" when you win.

Calling All Writers! Share Your Story in the Pride Voices Contest

The City of Novato is excited to announce the Pride Voices Contest, a creative writing opportunity for Novato residents ages 13 and older! This contest invites participants to share what seeing the Pride flag fly in Novato means to them through poetry or a short story.

Contest Prompt:

Through poetry or a written story, share what seeing the Pride flag fly in Novato means to you or your loved ones.

Submission Guidelines:

Poetry: Maximum 30 lines

Short Story/Prose: Maximum 350 words

Selected winners will be honored at the 5th Annual Pride Flag Raising Ceremony on Sunday, June 1, 2025, and one participant will be invited to accept the Pride Month Proclamation at a City Council meeting.

Submissions open March 12, 2025, and close April 11, 2025.

For questions, please email novatofun@novato.org.

Novato Celebrates Small Business Week

In celebration of Small Business Week, the City of Novato Economic Development Advisory Commission is partnering with the Novato Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Novato Business Association and Marin Small Business Development Center to provide valuable resources and connections to help our business community thrive.

Join us for an exciting networking event on Tuesday, May 6 from 5pm – 7pm at Novato City Hall, 901 Sherman Avenue! Gain valuable insights from a panel of successful local entrepreneurs who will share practical marketing tips, referral-building strategies, and fresh ideas to help grow your business.

Enjoy delicious bites while connecting with fellow business owners and community members.

Novato Businesses to Collect New Sales Tax as of April 1

Effective April 1, 2025, Novato businesses must collect the new voter-approved sales and use tax rate of 9.25% on taxable items. Businesses within Novato city limits should have already received a notice from the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA) regarding this rate change, including information on the new tax rate and tax codes.

Approved by Novato voters with the passage of Measure M in November 2024, this local sales tax increase of 0.75% is estimated to bring our community an additional $10 million in revenue per year, directly supporting community-identified priorities such as public safety and emergency response, parks and facilities maintenance, and roadway repairs.

A listing of CDTFA resources for businesses is available at novato.org/measurem.

Questions? Please contact the CDTFA at 1.800.400.7115 between the hours of 7:30am and 5:00pm (Pacific time) Monday through Friday.

Sustainability

Compost Giveaway

Did you know the food scraps and yard clippings you put in your green Recology cart are turned into organic compost right here in Novato?

To celebrate Earth Day, the City is hosting a FREE compost giveaway on Saturday, April 19 from 7am - 7pm at the City’s Corporation Yard, 550 Davidson Street.

🌎 Novato residents only

🌎 Bring your own containers and a shovel

🌎 No landscape contractors or truckloads

The compost giveaway is funded through a grant from CalRecycle.

Novato Spring Clean: Earth Day Litter Cleanup

Let’s Spring into Action for Earth Day and make our community sparkle! Please join volunteers as we Spring Clean Novato on Saturday, April 19 from 9am - 12pm at the following locations:

• Redwood Blvd (meet at corner of Redwood Blvd and Lamont St)
• Alameda del Prado (Meet at corner of Alameda del Prado and Posada Del Sol)
• Scottsdale Pond and Marsh Area (Meet at the Scottsdale Pond Gazebo on Redwood Blvd)

Nominate a Sustainability Superstar

Do you have a family member, neighbor, colleague or friend who goes above and beyond to care for and protect our environment? As part of Earth Month 2025, the City of Novato wants to recognize their efforts to create a sustainable future! We’re Novato Proud of these Sustainability Superstars, so nominate someone today and they'll have the chance to be featured on the City's social media accounts throughout the month of April. Nominations will be accepted through April 22, 2025.

Novato Fire Protection District Names Battalion Chief Dan Peters as New Fire Chief

The Novato Fire Protection District is proud to announce the selection of Battalion Chief Dan Peters as the next Fire Chief of Novato Fire.

With over 29 years of service, Chief Peters brings seasoned leadership and a proven commitment to advancing Novato Fire’s mission.

As Fire Chief, Peters will prioritize financial management, workforce engagement, and advancing the district’s role in the Marin Wildfire Prevention Authority initiative.

Novato Historical Guild: Where is Novato's Oldest House?

MARIN IJ: The first frame houses in Novato built by the Pacheco family on the corner of Rancho San Jose. No exact date is given for the houses. The larger house, in the background, was probably the residence or living and sleeping quarters in Spanish times and the smaller house used for cooking and preserving. The older residents say that the buildings were there long before 1856.

Novato Advance 6/9/1961: "Edith M. Connell, 69, died at her home at 1523 South Novato Boulevard. She was born on the property where the old Connell home, built in 1849, still stands.” 

Another one of Novato's oldest residences is the Postmaster’s House, thought to have been built in 1850. Its original location was on Yukon Way and South Novato Blvd, not far from the Pacheco structures. (Novato’s first “downtown” was situated near the present-day Nave Shopping Center.) In 1972, the Postmaster’s House was acquired by the City for $1 and moved to 815 De Long Avenue, where the Novato Historical Guild operates the Novato History Museum.

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.

April 8 at 6pm | City Council

April 10 at 2pm | Zoning Administrator

April 14 at 7pm | Planning Commission - cancelled

April 16 at 7pm | Design Review Commission

April 17 at 6pm | Sustainability Commission - Special Meeting

April 22 at 6pm | City Council

April 23 at 6pm | Multicultural Advisory Commission

April 24 at 2pm | Zoning Administrator

April 28 at 7pm | Planning Commission

We're Hiring — Join Our Team!

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

• Public Works Director (Full Time) - application deadline is April 13

Please note the following positions will remain open until filled.

Administrative Services

• Senior Accountant (Full Time)

Parks & Recreation

• Gymnastics Instructor (Part Time)
• Lifeguard (Part Time)
• Swim Instructor (Part Time)

Police

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

Public Works

• Maintenance Superintendent (Full Time)

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