This accomplishment is particularly meaningful for us as a department. Roughly four years ago, we took a significant step by initiating our K-9 program and Officer Ruiz, his loyal partner, Saurus, has been instrumental in making it a success along with help from SCSO Castellanos who routinely acts as the agitator to help Saurus train. They exemplify the dedication, skill, and adaptability needed to be both effective in the field and approachable with our community. As a patrol K-9 certified in gun detection, Saurus not only supports our safety but also interacts calmly with children and residents, bridging a bond between law enforcement and our community.

At the trials, Officer Ruiz, K-9 Saurus, and SCSO Castellanos tackled three challenging protection scenarios:

1. Muzzle Fight and Redirect – Saurus intercepted a fleeing decoy and, upon Officer Ruiz’s command, swiftly redirected to a second decoy.
2. Courage Test – A decoy tried fending Saurus off with two large water jugs, but Saurus prevailed, and Ruiz successfully recalled him behind cover.
3. Vehicle Pursuit – Saurus pursued a decoy standing on a car, crossing another vehicle to apprehend them after a chase.

Their scores truly reflect their hard work and discipline: 90 in Protection, 90 in Obedience, and 86 in Building Searches. Given the level of difficulty and competition, these scores are a testament to the bond and training shared between Officer Ruiz and Saurus.

Please join us in congratulating them on this outstanding achievement! Their success not only brings pride to our department but reinforces the commitment and skill they bring to our community every day.

Staff Game Day

On Thursday, November 14th, the Staff Engagement Team hosted a highly successful game day lunch in Council Chambers. The event was a fantastic opportunity to boost staff morale, promote health and wellness, foster inter/intra-departmental relationships, engage staff with the Seal Beach community, and encourage professional development.

Welcome Kyle Zirkle - Water Operator

The Public Works Department welcomes Kyle Zirkle to the

City of Seal Beach!

As part of the Utilities Division, some of Kyle’s responsibilities include assisting with the City’s valve maintenance program, water system maintenance and repairs, and water well operations. His expertise lies in welding, fabrication, coating, and blueprint analysis.  

Public Works is excited to have Kyle as part of the team! Welcome Kyle!

Winter 2024-2025 Shoreline Brochure

The Winter 2024-2025 Shoreline Brochure was published online Friday, November 1st, and registration for Winter classes began on Monday, November 4th. Information for recreation classes, surf lessons, and aquatic programs that occur between December 2024 and March 2025 are all included in the Winter Shoreline. The brochure can be found on our City website at: https://www.sealbeachca.gov/Departments/Community-Services-Recreation/Recreation-Guide-Class-Info. Viewers can click directly on the classes listed in the brochure and be taken to our online registration website. Registration can also take place in person at City Hall or by mail with check payable to the City of Seal Beach.

McGaugh Gym Improvements

The McGaugh Gym is currently under construction, focusing on replacing outdated windows and roof repairs in anticipation for the upcoming rainy season. The Los Alamitos School District is leading this improvement project. 

Seal Beach Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

Join us this Saturday, November 23rd, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Eisenhower Park for the annual Seal Beach Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, an event that heralds the start of the holiday season in our town. This festive occasion is brought to you through the collaboration of the City of Seal Beach and the Seal Beach Chamber of Commerce, with generous sponsorships from various community-serving companies and organizations. The evening will be packed with holiday fun, including photos with Santa, snow sledding, arts and crafts, and a variety of refreshments available for purchase. The highlight of the event will be the ceremonial lighting of the magnificent 18-foot Douglas Fir Christmas Tree at Eisenhower Park. Bring your family and friends to experience the magic of the season and celebrate with your community!

Updates

 Lifeguard Activities:

• 1 rescue, 10 medical aids, 1 major medical aid, 3 vessel response calls, 163 enforcements, 8 preventative actions

Public Safety Outreach:

• Marine Safety participated in the McGaugh and Weaver Elementary Schools Red Ribbon Week events. Lifeguards brought various rescue equipment and a booth to promote water safety and the importance of staying drug-free.

• The citywide Trunk or Treat event took place on Halloween. Marine Safety staff enjoyed interacting with the community, handing out candy, and running a tarp surfing activity that was enjoyed by both kids and their parents.

AED Orientation at the Seal Beach Tennis and Pickleball Center:

• Marine Safety Officer Jeremy Jenks and Lifeguard Matt Corb conducted an AED (defibrillator) training, teaching over 20 participants how to recognize cardiac arrest, use an AED, and perform CPR. These community trainings empower the public to get prepared and learn how to operate AED’s.

Training with the Police Department:

• On November 19th, Marine Safety instructed a CPR/AED course certifying Police Department staff. Additional trainings are scheduled for December and January.

Vessel Rescues

• On November 11th, lifeguards responded to a kite surfer stranded offshore. Using a Rescue Watercraft, they safely retrieved the kiter and their gear, returning them to the beach with no injuries. 

Old Ranch Parkway Planting

Contractors for the I-405 widening project have replaced and replanted trees and bushes along Old Ranch Parkway leading to the SR-22 Freeway. The main tree species planted is the Grevillea Robusta, or more commonly known as a Southern Silky Oak tree. The Southern Silky Oak is an evergreen tree that is considered the tallest in its genus and can grow up to 100 feet tall. These trees have mild flowering and grow extremely well in dry climate. The intent of the plantings is to match the existing treescape along Old Ranch Parkway. This is one of the final areas within Seal Beach for the contractors to install new landscaping.    

Relocation of Meter Box on Main Street

Staff recently addressed a safety hazard at 137 Main Street by relocating a 1-inch meter box onto City right-of-way. The existing meter box was in a state of disrepair and posed a potential tripping hazard. Our crews promptly relocated the meter box and repaired the damaged concrete surrounding the old location.

Park Equipment Cleaning

Staff recently gave the play equipment at Edison Park a deep cleaning! Our dedicated staff power-washed equipment to remove dirt, grime, and other debris, ensuring a safe and enjoyable play area for children of all ages. This initiative aligns with our commitment to maintaining clean and well-kept public spaces. By regularly cleaning and inspecting park equipment, we prioritize the health and safety of our community.

Sidewalk Cleaning

Staff has been hard at work keeping our streets clean and inviting. As part of routine maintenance, our crews power wash and scrub Main Street and other high-traffic areas twice a month. This essential cleaning helps to remove unsightly stains, gum, and other debris, ensuring a welcoming environment for residents and visitors alike. While we aim to cover as much ground as possible, we often tackle one block at a time to ensure thorough cleaning. Our focus is on the areas that see the most foot traffic, as these tend to accumulate dirt and debris more quickly.

The Briefing Room

• Active Shooter Training Drill: The Seal Beach Police Department hosted a comprehensive active shooter training drill on the McGaugh campus in collaboration with the Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA). The training was strategically scheduled for Veterans Day to ensure no students were on campus, allowing for a controlled and realistic environment. Several dedicated volunteers participated, enhancing the drill's effectiveness and demonstrating the community's commitment to public safety preparedness.

• Homelessness Response Discussion: Captains Nicholas and Ezroj engaged in a productive meeting with a concerned resident to address the SBPD's approach to homelessness within the community. Their thoughtful explanations and detailed responses left the resident feeling reassured and pleased with the department's compassionate and proactive efforts.

• Neighbor4Neighbor Program Outreach: Emergency Services Sergeant Brian Gray represented the SBPD at the monthly Chamber of Commerce meeting, where he introduced and provided updates on the Neighbor4Neighbor program. This initiative emphasizes community resilience and preparedness, fostering stronger connections among residents and local businesses.

• Library Safety Partnership: Captain Nicholas met with the newly appointed administration of the Mary Wilson Library to discuss strategies for ensuring the safety of library staff and patrons. This meeting reinforced the SBPD's commitment to building partnerships with community organizations to maintain secure and welcoming public spaces.

• Civilian Leadership Institute Graduation: The SBPD Command Staff attended Records Supervisor Dan Fortney’s graduation from the prestigious Civilian Leadership Institute. This milestone reflects Fortney’s dedication to professional development and highlights the department’s focus on nurturing leadership among its civilian personnel.

• Coffee with a Cop Event: The SBPD hosted a successful Coffee with a Cop event, where community members had the opportunity to engage in open dialogue with officers and Mayor Sustarsic. This event strengthened community-police relationships and provided a casual setting for residents to share their concerns and feedback.

• Facility Dog Yosa’s School Visit: Facility Dog Yosa made special visits to several classrooms at McGaugh Elementary School, where she helped introduce students to the role of police officers in the community. Yosa’s interactions were particularly meaningful for students with special needs, fostering trust and building positive connections with law enforcement.

• Station Tour for Campfire Youth Group: The SBPD hosted an engaging and educational tour of the police station for a local Campfire Youth group. Participants had the opportunity to explore the facility, learn about police operations, and interact with officers, inspiring interest in community service and public safety.