December 2024

Welcome to the City of Novato's monthly newsletter! This issue features a message regarding Measure M, City Council Swearing-In & Farewell Ceremony, Council's approval of an operating agreement with the Novato Historical Guild, Minimum Wage update, Grant Avenue Bridge Project update, safety tips from the Novato Police Department, Parks & Recreation programs, holiday happenings, 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.

Thank you for Supporting Measure M

The City of Novato extends heartfelt appreciation to voters for supporting Measure M and contributing to meaningful progress in improving and maintaining critical infrastructure and services for our community.

Measure M, a local sales tax increase, will provide locally controlled funding for roadway repairs; emergency response and public safety; programs for youth, families and seniors; parks and facilities maintenance; and wildfire risk reduction. 

The City remains committed to long-term fiscal sustainability and efficiently delivering essential services. With Measure M, we can continue to preserve and enhance the Novato our community cherishes – creating great places and spaces for everyone to enjoy.

We look forward to engaging you in the Fiscal Year 2024/25 Budget process.

Novato City Council Swearing-In & Farewell Ceremony

Please join us for the Novato City Council Swearing-In & Farewell Ceremony held during the regular City Council meeting at 6pm on Tuesday, December 10 at Novato City Hall, 901 Sherman Avenue.

Newly elected Councilmember Kevin Jacobs and reelected Councilmembers Mark Milberg & Tim O’Connor will take the Oath of Office. We will recognize and thank Councilmember Susan Wernick for her many years of service to the Novato community. 

The City Council will also select a Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem to serve one-year terms. 

Light refreshments will be served. We hope to see you there!

Council Approves Agreement with Historical Guild to Relocate & Renovate Museum

At Tuesday’s meeting, the Novato City Council unanimously approved an exciting partnership with the Novato Historical Guild to relocate and renovate the Novato History Museum. The museum will move to the City-owned Scott House at 917 Sherman Avenue following a reconstruction project. 

The Novato Historical Guild, a non-profit organization, will spearhead fundraising efforts to fully fund the project, having already secured $1 million in pledges. The Guild plans to raise the remainder of the funds by December 2025.

This initiative will revitalize the historic Scott House, transforming it into a vibrant community space within Novato’s Civic Center and downtown, while enabling the museum to expand its programs and offerings. This partnership also aligns with the City’s Strategic Plan goal of maximizing the use of City-owned properties to create great places that encourage community pride and interaction. 

More information about the Novato Historical Guild is available at novatohistory.org.

Grant Avenue Bridge Project Update

Despite November’s heavy rains, the Grant Avenue Bridge Project is making great progress and remains on schedule. Last month, crews worked on the northside of the bridge including pouring the ADA ramps, sidewalk, curb & gutter, installed light pole foundations, and demolished the existing bridge barrier.

Over the next month, work continues on the northside and includes pouring of the new bridge barrier, completion of the ADA ramps, storm drain, sidewalk, curb & gutter, and other roadway improvements.

One-way traffic control will continue to be in place:

• The south side sidewalk and roadway will be open to pedestrian and vehicular traffic
• The north side sidewalk and roadway will be closed
• Pedestrians must cross Grant Avenue at 8th Street and at Virginia Avenue

This project is anticipated to be completed in January 2025 and benefits include widened roadway access; safety improvements for pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists; new bridge railing and pavement; and new signage and a streetlight system. All estimated timelines are tentative and subject to change.

We appreciate your patience and understanding as we move into the final stage of construction.

Safe Shopping During the Holidays

Shopping for gifts this holiday season? During the holidays, the Novato Police Department (NPD) is taking extra precautions to ensure a safe shopping experience for everyone.  

Shopping centers throughout Novato experience an increase in consumers during this time of year and as a result, retail thefts, auto burglaries, stolen vehicles, and robberies tend to increase. To address this anticipated increase in crime, NPD will increase patrols and a police presence at various shopping centers in the Novato area.  

Safe Shopping Crime Prevention Tips:  

• Be alert and aware of your surroundings  
• Avoid isolated areas—underground garages, alleys, parking lots, and offices after business hours 
• Be aware of your surroundings when using ATM’s 
• Keep valuables out of sight, including purses, wallets, cell phones, electronics, jewelry, etc.  
• Carry your wallet inside your coat or in your front pants pocket 
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash 
• Don't be overburdened with packages or shopping bags 
• Keep a firm grip on your purse or backpack 
• Shopping with kids? Teach them to go to a store clerk or security guard if you get separated

Report suspicious activity when it occurs by calling 415-897-4361 or report crime online at novato.org/reportacrime. In an emergency, call 9-1-1.

Be Prepared for Stormy Weather

The City of Novato has sand and bags available to Novato residents at the City of Novato Corporation Yard, 550 Davidson Street. Limit 10 per household. Bring your own shovel & gloves.

If you're physically unable to fill the bags, contact Public Works at 415-899-8280 during business hours to schedule a time to pick up prefilled bags.

More information: novato.org/sandbags 

Winter + Spring Activity Guide

Get Ready for Winter & Spring Fun with Novato Parks & Recreation! Our Winter + Spring 2025 Activity Guide is now available at novatofun.org. Explore programs for all ages, from youth basketball and gymnastics to adult leagues and senior activities. Highlights include exciting events like the Spring Magic Show with Magician Mike Della Penna, Spring Trash to Treasures Flea Market, and new offerings including Indoor Pickleball and our Junior Swim Instructor program.

Don't miss out – registration opens Tuesday, December 10. Whether you're interested in gymnastics, LEGO workshops, theater productions, or sports leagues, there's something for everyone. Discover your next adventure with #NovatoFun.

Questions? Contact us at 415.899.8279 or novatofun@novato.org.

Margaret Todd Senior Center Membership

Applications for 2025 Margaret Todd Senior Center membership are available. For $42 per year, gain weekly access to more than 15 game groups, puzzles, lending library and more. Get discounts on Center special events like our Irish Lunch and Summer Luau. Plus, receive a monthly newsletter via mail or email with important resources and program information.

Girls Basketball League

The Girls 3-8th Grade Basketball League focuses on teaching fundamental basketball skills, fostering teamwork, and building camaraderie and friendships within each team. Our league emphasizes skill development in a fun and recreational environment, ensuring that every player has an enjoyable and memorable experience. Weekday practices and Saturday games begin in January.

All Sports Camp

Join us at All Sports Camp – the ultimate playground for active, energetic kids! Immerse your child in a world of excitement where running, sports, and classic games collide. From scoring goals to mastering dodgeball tactics, every day is a new adventure in motion. This is the perfect opportunity to keep your child physically active during the holiday break. Single day camp registration available on December 23, 26, 27 & 30 and January 2 & 3. 

Holiday Happenings in Novato

Get ready to create lasting memories at some of the most festive events of the season. The City of Novato is thrilled to host and sponsor a lineup of many cherished holiday events, including the Holiday Crafts Faire, the Annual Tree Lighting, Grand Menorah Lighting and so much more. 

As you plan your holiday fun, remember to support Novato’s business community by shopping locally this holiday season. Discover our unique local shops and businesses at ShopLocalNovato.com. 

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Prepárese para crear recuerdos imborrables en algunos de los acontecimientos más festivos de la temporada. La Ciudad de Novato está encantada de acoger y patrocinar una serie de eventos navideños muy apreciados, como la Feria de Artesanía Navideña, el Encendido Anual del Árbol, el Gran Encendido de la Menorá y mucho más.

Mientras planifica su diversión navideña, recuerde apoyar a la comunidad empresarial de Novato comprando a nivel local estas fiestas. Descubra nuestras exclusivas tiendas y comercios locales en ShopLocalNovato.com.

Holiday Crafts Faire

Join us for the 2024 Holiday Crafts Faire on Friday, December 6, 6pm-9pm and Saturday, December 7, 10am-4pm at the Margaret Todd Senior Center. Purchase handmade crafts including jewelry, ceramics, specialty foods, wreaths, ornaments, bath & body products and more, and enjoy food and entertainment throughout the event.

Explore over 60 booths in two great locations. This year we've added 10 more vendors to the Hill Community Room next to the Senior Center. Don't miss out on the chance to find something special! 

Holiday Tree Lighting

Join us in the heart of downtown for Novato's Annual Holiday Tree Lighting on Saturday, December 7 from 4-7:30pm on Sherman Avenue.

Enjoy live music, dance performances, arts & crafts, cookie decorating shop & stroll vendors and downtown's amazing shops, restaurants, tasting rooms and tap rooms. And of course — a visit from Santa.

Don't miss this exciting holiday tradition!

String Orchestra Performance

Immerse yourself in the magic of music at the Margaret Todd Senior Center on Tuesday, December 10 at 2:45pm. Enjoy a FREE captivating performance by the Marin School of the Arts String Orchestra.

Experience the talent of 17 string instrument student musicians as they weave classical and contemporary melodies into a mesmerizing 30-45 minute set. RSVP encouraged but not mandatory. Simply call (415) 899-8290 or swing by the front desk of the Senior Center.

Downtown Novato's

Not So Silent Night

Your favorite stores will stay open late for holiday shopping on Saturday, December 14 beginning at 4pm in Downtown Novato.

Restaurants, bars, taprooms and tasting rooms will be bursting with special treats, live music and holiday cheer.

Santa will be strolling the street, too, so you can share your holiday list with him!

Holiday Lunch at Margaret Todd Senior Center

Join us for a delicious Holiday Lunch at the Margaret Todd Senior Center on Wednesday, December 18 at 12pm. For just $20 enjoy honey baked ham, au gratin potatoes, fresh garden salad, a veggie platter, cheesecake and more. Register by 4pm on December 10 by signing up below or in person at the Margaret Todd Senior Center.

Grand Menorah Lighting

Join the Chabad Jewish Center of Novato on Sunday, December 29 at 5pm at Novato City Hall, 901 Sherman Avenue as they light up the night with a Chanukah celebration!

Enjoy a fire truck gelt drop, donuts, hot latkes, crafts, music, a raffle and more. 

Heroes & Helpers

Every year, North Marin Community Services partners with Novato Police, the City of Novato and Target to provide gifts to underserved families during the holidays. The event is funded through donations from community partners and community members. The event takes place at Target in Novato in December and provides gifts to 60 families during the holiday season.

Salvation Army Angel Tree

Angel Tree Tags are back — help our children and seniors in need! Pick up a tag at the Novato Police Department and drop off a NEW/UNWRAPPED toy at one of the following locations:

• Novato Police Department, 909 Machin Avenue by Monday 12/16 (Mon-Fri, 8am-5pm)
• Salvation Army in San Rafael, 351 Mission Ave by Tuesday 12/17 (Tues-Sat, 10am-6pm)

Individual details provided on each tag.

Margaret Todd Senior Center Holiday Food Drive

Give the gift of hope this holiday season! Join our Holiday Food Drive at the Margaret Todd Senior Center, 1560 Hill Road, and help families in need. Drop off your non-perishable donations now through Wednesday, December 18.

The Margaret Todd Senior Center is open Monday - Friday, 9am - 5pm. All donations will go to the San Francisco Marin Food Bank to make a difference in our community. 

SMART Holiday Express Toy Drive

On Saturday, December 7, SMART and transit agencies in Sonoma and Marin will host a special Toy Drive. During the Toy Drive, each train passenger who brings a new, unwrapped toy to donate rides free on SMART. The entire community is invited to bring a toy and enjoy the holiday cheer aboard SMART. Remember youth (0-18) and seniors (65+) ride free on SMART every day!

North Marin Community Services Holiday Toy Drive

If you have room on your holiday shopping list for one more child, consider signing up to make a wish come true. With your help, North Marin Community Services' Holiday Share & Toy Drive will ensure 400 children from families facing financial hardship receive gifts this holiday season. Join the magic by donating or volunteering at this heartwarming event on December 14.

Pictured: Club Rio was located at the north end of the Novato Creek bridge, east side of Hwy 101

Novato Historical Guild: Quarterly Membership Meeting

The Novato Historical Guild's quarterly membership meeting will be held on Saturday, December 14 from 10am to 12pm at Novato City Hall, 901 Sherman Avenue. Featured speaker and Marin County Historian Dewey Livingston will present "Billboards, Bars, and Motels: 1950s Roadside Marin", a display of long-gone attractions along Highway 101. His talk will cover the Golden Gate to Novato, focusing on North Marin establishments including The Meadows, Bill's Station at Black Point, Club Rio, Joe's X-Road, and Dave's Village Inn. This event is free and open to the public.  

Interested in learning more about Novato's history? The Novato Historical Guild operates two museums — Novato History Museum, located in the 1850 Postmaster’s House, 815 DeLong Avenue, and The Hamilton Field History Museum, located in the 1935 Hamilton Firehouse, 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.

SMART Train Full System Closure December 14 & 15

All SMART stations will be closed December 14 and 15 to allow for essential Systems Testing in preparation for the opening of the new SMART Petaluma North station. During this time, the entire SMART rail line and all SMART Connect shuttles will be out of service. We appreciate your patience as we work to expand passenger rail service to the communities in the North Bay. The Petaluma North station is slated to open in late December.  

Alternative Transit Routes

Apps such as the Transit app, Google Maps, or Apple Maps can help you plan a trip using alternate transit routes. Golden Gate Transit offers bus service connecting Sonoma and Marin counties to San Francisco. SMART Customer Service agents are available Monday-Friday from 8am – 5pm, to assist you with trip planning at (707) 794-3330 or via email at customerservice@sonomamarintrain.org.

NUSD Workforce Housing

The Board of Education has made a commitment to explore the possibility of workforce housing and has dedicated resources to take a deep dive into the subject.

Workforce housing is one of several strategies being used to retain, attract and employ exceptional and dedicated talent.

Updates on Novato Unified School District's Education Workforce Housing Initiative include:

• Completion of the Feasibility Study
• Approval of the Education Workforce Housing Development Staging Plan
• Formation of a Facilities Advisory Committee

City of Novato Sustainability

Repair Fair

Do you have a lamp, small appliance, electronics, clothing, or bike in need of repair? Check out the free Repair Fair at the South Novato Library on December 7 from 12pm-3pm!

How it works:

1. Bring an item for repair
2. Get assigned to a 'repair coach'
3. Repair item (and learn new things)
4. Leave happy knowing you've saved the item from the landfill! 

Thank you to the Reuse Alliance, Zero Waste Marin and Marin County Free Library for offering this exciting event!

Mill Food Recycler Pilot Program

Zero Waste Marin is running a pilot program with Mill to offer Marin residents an easy way to deal with food scraps. The Mill Food Recycler is effortless, odorless and can shrink food scraps by 80%! Mill works while you sleep and turns food scraps into nutrient-rich grounds that can be easily emptied into your green Recology compost cart. Up to 125 low-income residents and non-profit organizations in Marin will be invited to participate in the pilot program and will receive a free Mill Food Recycler. 

Create Your Own Climate Action Plan

If you believe 2025 is the year you take meaningful action to reduce your environmental impact, Resilient Neighborhoods’ free Climate Action Workshops are just the ticket! You'll learn from inspiring Marin climate leaders and connect with other Marin residents with a passion for making a difference. These engaging workshops combine personalized support in a collaborative learning environment, while you map out your climate action plan. Choose from online teams starting January 9 at 6:30pm or January 15 at 4pm. 

Give the Gift of Memories

This holiday season, give the gift of great memories. Physical items may end up in the landfill, but memories last a lifetime. Think outside of the box – literally – and gift your loved ones and friends an experience.

Consider pottery, dance, martial arts, or cooking classes, music lessons, concert tickets, or a museum membership. Maybe even class packs at a local gym or a gift certificate for a massage. For the daredevils in your life, perhaps skydiving or ballooning? There's sure to be an experience fit for everyone on your list!

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.

December 9 at 7pm | Planning Commission - Cancelled

December 10 at 6pm | City Council

December 11 at 5pm | Housing and Homeless Committee - Cancelled

December 12 at 2pm | Zoning Administrator - Cancelled

December 16 at 7pm | Planning Commission - Special Meeting

December 18 at 7pm | Design Review Commission

December 23 at 7pm | Planning Commission - Cancelled

December 25 at 6pm | Multicultural Advisory Commission

December 26 at 2pm | Zoning Administrator

We're Hiring — Join Our Team!

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

• NEW! Assistant City Manager - deadline to apply is December 22

Please note the following positions will remain open until filled.

Police

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

Top Stories from Our Previous Edition

Watch the Pavement Management Program Presentation

Fiscal Sustainability Update