See Updated Holiday Closure Information

NOVEL CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19)

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses, some causing respiratory illness in people, and others that circulate mostly among animals. Common symptoms in an infected person include fever, cough and shortness of breath or difficulty breathing. 

Since its discovery in December 2019, mainland Chinese authorities have identified tens of thousands of human infections, resulting in thousands of deaths associated with this novel (new) coronavirus, which began in Wuhan City, Hubei Province. In addition, novel coronavirus infections have been confirmed in numerous travelers in the United States and a growing list of countries internationally, including Iran, Italy, South Korea, and Japan. As of Friday, March 6, 2020, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (Public Health) has confirmed 11 total cases of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in Los Angeles County.

The best thing that you can do to protect yourself and your family is to practice good hygiene and be prepared!

Doing these things will go a long way to protect individuals.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Los Angeles County Department of Public Health’s Frequently Asked Questions ENGLISH | SPANISH 

Information in this section has been provided by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. As they are working directly with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), please visit their website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

UPDATED HOLIDAY CLOSURE: APRIL 2020 HOLIDAY HOURS

In observance of Cesar Chavez' Birthday (observed), City facilities will be closed on Friday, April 3, 2020. All emergency services will remain operational.

MEASURE A TOWN HALL MEETING: 2/18/20

On Tuesday, February 18, 2020, the City hosted a Town Hall meeting at City Hall to discuss the funds that have been raised through the ½ cent local sales tax approved by City voters in 2013 (Measure “A”), and solicit input from the community regarding future use of Measure “A” funds. Approximately 20 community members participated in the Town Hall meeting and received information about: 

The Facebook Live video and PowerPoint Presentation from the event is available on the City’s website: WWW.SFCITY.ORG.

There will be another Measure “A” Town Hall meeting during the City’s budget process in May 2020. Please check the City’s website and social media for more details as May 2020 approaches.

AMERICAN FRUITS AND FLAVORS, MONSTER BEVERAGE CORPORATION GROUNDBREAKING CEREMONY

On February 13, 2020, American Fruits and Flavors (AFF), Monster Beverage Corporation and the City of San Fernando held a groundbreaking ceremony at the future flavor manufacturing facility located at 510 Park Avenue. Dignitaries who spoke included Mayor Joel Fajardo, Councilmember Robert C. Gonzales, and Councilmember Mary Mendoza. Bill Haddad, President of AFF, and Rodney C. Sacks, Chairman and CEO of Monster Beverage Corporation, also spoke sharing their excitement to see their vision come to fruition, as well as appreciation for the business friendly reception they received from the City of San Fernando. Also in attendance were San Fernando residents, members of the business community including the San Fernando City Chamber of Commerce, City staff, and Alston Construction, the design-build general contractor for the project. 

The 7.6 acre site, which formerly served as a service yard for Frontier Communications, was entitled in October 2018 through the Planning and Preservation Commission’s approval of a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) and Site Plan Review by its previous owner, Overton Moore Properties, for redevelopment of a new 168,676 sq. ft. industrial development. AFF was acquired by Monster Beverage Corporation in 2016 and is the primary flavor supplier for flagship Monster Energy drinks, as well as several other juice and drink flavors. In October 2019, AFF purchased the site from Overton Moore Properties for $33 million.

Upon completion, the new flavor manufacturing facility will employ more than 150 employees with year over year growth anticipated over the next five years. The flavoring manufactured onsite for Monster Energy drinks will supply distribution throughout North America, Central America, South America, and Asia.

SANTA ROSA DE LIMA VISITS CITY HALL & POLICE DEPARTMENT

It’s never too early to learn about local government! On February 27, 2020, Councilmembers Gonzales and Ballin, and City Department Heads greeted Mrs. Razo’s Transitional Kindergarten Class from Santa Rosa de Lima Elementary as they visited City Hall and the Police Department. 

The kids, teachers, and chaperones enjoyed a brief discussion on the importance of each department in the City and the upcoming Census 2020. To make their trip more memorable, each kid sat at the dais as an honorary Councilmember and received a goodie bag filled with pencils and coloring items from the Metropolitan Water District and the Police Department, as well as an “#iCount” Census button. The tour finished off with an informative and exciting tour of the Police Department!

SPEAKING OF CENSUS 2020!

Did you know that, in addition to determining how many representatives each state has in Congress, federal funding for programs such as school nutrition, job training, senior and foster care, and medical insurance programs are all provided based on Census data? That means if you do not complete the Census in April 2020, you will not be counted, San Fernando will not get the full amount of funding that is needed to provide service to everyone that is eligible, and California will not get the full representation in Washington, D.C. to ensure an equal voice in national policy.

The Census is completely confidential and individual responses cannot be used by the City or any other Government Agency.

The City is planning a Census Kickoff event in partnership with the Fernandeño Tataviam Band of Mission Indians on Census Day: April 1, 2020. More information will be provided via the City's website and social media as Census Day approaches.

Be sure to complete the Census online or at one of the many Census Action Kiosks throughout the City in March 2020 and April 2020 and show everyone that YOU COUNT!!!

SAN FERNANDO IS HIRING; JOIN OUR TEAM!

Have you thought about a career where you can be involved in serving the community and helping others? Applications are currently being accepted for full-time Police Officer positions, as well as for part-time Community Service Officer, Planning Intern, and Recreation Leader I and II positions. Filing deadlines vary for each position. 

Visit the City website ( WWW.SFCITY.ORG) to view the job bulletins and download a City Employment Application.

SEMI-FINAL ELECTION RESULTS

Tuesday night’s election results are semi-final. The Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk (RR/CC) has issued a Press Release regarding outstanding ballots left to be processed.

Also, per the County:

TRACK YOUR VOTE BY MAIL BALLOT

After you return your ballot, you can track its status to make sure the County received it. Click this link to visit the RR/CC website: Track My Ballot.

EDUCATION COMMISSION: STUDENT OF THE MONTH

For the month of February 2020, Briana, a student from the Academy of Scientific Exploration, was recognized by the City Council under the “Kindness/Caring” category and was presented with a gift certificate from Horchateria Rio Luna in San Fernando. Congratulations Briana!

TEACHER SPOTLIGHT PROGRAM

At their December 30, 2019 special meeting, the Education Commission implemented a Teacher Spotlight Program. The Commission encourages students and families to nominate a teacher who mentors, inspires, motivates, or otherwise impacts, students' lives.

For additional information and access to the nomination form, please click HERE or email sfeducom@sfcity.org .

NEW ONLINE PERMIT COUNTER

The Community Development Department is excited to announce the launch of our new Online Permit Counter. Apply and pay for permits at home or from your mobile device anytime. 

Follow these easy steps below to get started:

FAREWELL TO CHRISTIAN AND TAMARA

The Community Development Department bids farewell to Planning Interns, Christian Candelaria and Tamara Santoyo as they both begin new chapters in their career. Christian and Tamara joined the team in March 2019 and have spent the past year growing their skills and knowledge by assisting customers with plan checks and permitting. They’ve also been instrumental working on GIS and information technology projects. 

Christian is in his final semester of graduate studies at California State University, Northridge, with plans to return to his native Northern California following graduation. Tamara graduated in May 2019 from the University of Southern California with a Bachelor of Science, Urban Planning and Development degree and is currently applying for full-time city planning positions. We are proud of their contributions to San Fernando and wish them both the best of luck.

WELCOME RICKY GONZALES,

GRAFFITI ABATEMENT SPECIALIST

The Community Development Department welcomes Ricky Gonzales, who now serves as the City’s first response to eliminating graffiti on public property throughout San Fernando. Ricky is a proud San Fernando native and we’re lucky to have him join our team!

PLANNING AND PRESERVATION COMMISSION

The next regular meeting of the Planning and Preservation Commission will be held on March 9, 2020. No public hearings are scheduled for that day. 

COMMUNITY PRESERVATION STATISTICS, JULY 2018 TO JANUARY 2020

Data provided below describes efforts in code enforcement and graffiti abatement for Fiscal Year 2018-2019 to date and Fiscal Year 2019-2020 to date.

LOW INCOME WATER RATE ASSISTANCE APPLICATION

Applications for the Low Income Water Rate Assistance Program are available now. The Low Income Rate Assistance Program is intended for eligible low-income households located in the City of San Fernando. 

WHAT KIND OF DISCOUNT IS AVAILABLE?

The maximum assistance amount is $18 total per billing period ($11 applied to water and $7 applied to sewer).

HOW DO YOU QUALIFY?

Applicants must have qualified for the California Alternative Rates for Energy (CARE) program through Southern California Edison or Southern California Gas Company. Proof of eligibility must be submitted each year with your Low Income Rate Assistance Program application. The account must be in the same name as the CARE account holder. 

HOW CAN YOU APPLY?

Visit the City's website to download and application ( WWW.SFCITY.ORG). Complete the application and submit a copy of your eligibility with the California Alternative Rates for Energy (CARE) program through Southern California Edison or Southern California Gas Company. You may submit the application and proof of eligibility one of three ways:

DO YOU HAVE TO REAPPLY EACH YEAR?

Yes, eligibility must be renewed on an annual basis, from the initial date of application. 

QUESTIONS?

Persons who have questions or need assistance completing the application may contact the Finance Department at (818) 898-1245 or Finance@sfcity.org.

WATER SHUT OFF FOR WATER BILLS

Please see the important shut off dates for February 2020 bills and City Hall closures below:

WATER BILLING AUTOMATIC PAYMENT SERVICE PLAN

Residents, consider signing-up for the City's automatic payment service plan without the hassle of having to come to City Hall or mailing a check. Simplify your life and avoid late fees at the same time by signing up for AutoPay and have your Water Bill debited directly from your account automatically. There is no charge to you from the City, but some financial institutions may charge a fee for electronic fund transfers (ask your bank regarding any possible fees). You may also pay your Water Bill in person at City Hall; acceptable payment methods include cash, check, and debit card ($1.50 processing fee for debit card transactions). For more details, contact the Finance Department at 818.898.1245.

FINANCIAL REPORTS

As a reminder, all of the City's financial reports, including annual budgets, audited financial statements, quarterly sales tax reports, and the Measure A Annual Report can be found under the Finance Department page on the City's website ( WWW.SFCITY.ORG).

EXPLORER RECOGNITION BANQUET

On Saturday, February 8, 2020, at 6:00 pm, the San Fernando Police Explorer Post 521 celebrated its 52 ^nd Anniversary. Post 521 was established in 1968 and has continued to be a remarkable success. Explorer Advisors Fernando Miranda, Jorge Cervantes and Connie Negrete, along with Mayor Joel Fajardo, Councilmember Mary Mendoza, City Manager Nick Kimball and Police Chief Anthony Vairo presented Certificates of Recognition to current and past Explorers for their dedication to the Police Department, the City of San Fernando and the San Fernando community. It was a pleasant evening of celebration with music, slideshow of the event and dinner. In addition to recognizing the individual Explorers, Arlene Esquivel was awarded with Explorer of the Year.

SAN FERNANDO POLICE DEPARTMENT IS URGING ADDITIONAL VICTIMS OF INDECENT EXPOSURE TO COME FORWARD

On Monday, February 24, 2020, at approximately 10 am, Officers arrested suspect, Juan Pablo Diaz, who is eighteen years of age, for multiple counts of indecent exposure.  Numerous victims identified Mr. Diaz and stated that he exposed his penis to them as they walked to and from school (including elementary, middle school, and high school). Mr. Diaz also exposed himself to children while they played on the playground of the school. 

Mr. Diaz lives in the City of San Fernando and the San Fernando Police Department is seeking any additional victims to come forward. Please contact the Detective Division at (818) 898-1256 or Detective Evelyn Diaz at (818) 898-1260 if you have any information on additional victims.

OBSERVANT OFFICERS LOCATE SUSPECT VEHICLE INVOLVED IN ATTEMPT MURDER

On Saturday, January 25, 2020, at approximately 7:45 pm, the Communications Center received a 911 call reporting shots fired at a vehicle in the area of Hubbard Avenue and Second Street. Sergeant Brian Woodward and Team 4 Officers Daniel Delgado, Mike Delgado, and Jonathan Zibli responded to the location. Responding Officers made contact with the victim who advised that she and her passenger were not injured; however, their vehicle was struck multiple times by gunfire. After interviewing both the victim and witness, Officers canvassed the area and located video that depicted the suspects just prior to the actual incident. Officers obtained the suspect vehicle description and worked diligently in an attempt to locate it. 

On Saturday, February 1, 2020, at approximately 9:00 pm, Officers saw a vehicle matching the description of the suspect vehicle in the area of Truman Street and San Fernando Mission Boulevard. Sergeant Woodward and Team 4 Officers D. Delgado, Kyle Cleveland, and Zibli conducted a traffic stop, contacted the driver, and ultimately arrested him for an unrelated charge. During the subsequent interview, the suspect admitted to being involved in the January 25, 2020 shooting. Outstanding police work by Team 4!

RESOLUTE OFFICERS HIT THE STREETS TO IDENTIFY SUSPECT IN ATTEMPT MURDER

On Sunday, February 9, 2020, at approximately 11:00 pm, the Communications Center received a 911 call reporting shots fired at a vehicle in the 1600 block of Coronel Street. Sergeant Woodward and Team 4 Officers J. Robles, D. Delgado, Cleveland, and Zibli responded and contacted the victims. Neither victim was seriously injured; however, their vehicle was struck multiple times by a high-powered rifle. Officers interviewed the victims and conducted a thorough search for surveillance footage and located video that depicted some portions of the incident. After the incident, Officers utilized various contacts and worked to locate other potential witnesses. Based on their legwork, a potential suspect was identified. Officers worked with Detective Jorge Cervantes and were able to obtain a positive identification of the suspect. 

On Thursday, February 20, 2020, Team 4 Officers arrested the suspect after locating him in a vehicle. The suspect's vehicle was impounded as evidence and an unregistered handgun was located in the vehicle. Fantastic work by Team 4 Officers and Detective Cervantes to quickly and safely take an attempt murder suspect off of the streets!

TRAFFIC/PARKING CITATION UPDATE

The Police Department's Traffic Division is responsible for enforcing traffic and parking regulations in the City of San Fernando. Data provided below describes efforts in traffic and parking enforcement during February 2020.

ANNUAL STREET RESURFACING PROJECT

Excel Paving recently completed slurry seal of Lucas Street between N. Workman Street and Orange Grove Avenue. Paving for the remaining streets is scheduled for March 2020:

As a friendly reminder, please obey all traffic control devices, including “No Parking” signs.

TREE CITY RECOGNITION

The City of San Fernando has been recognized as a Tree City for calendar year 2019 by the Tree City USA organization. This marks the 12 ^th year that the City has received this recognition. Stay tuned for information on the Arbor Day 2020 plans! 

SAN FERNANDO MIDDLE SCHOOL RESTRIPING

In an to improve traffic and circulation in front of San Fernando Middle School, the City recently completed restriping on portions of N. Brand Blvd. between the Metrolink tracks and Third St, with the centerline slightly realigned to accommodate school bus parking. As part of the project, existing red curb and crosswalks were repainted, various colored curbs were removed, and new signage will be installed at those locations.

COMING SOON - NEW ONLINE REGISTRATION PORTAL!

The Recreation and Community Services Department is pleased to announce a new online registration portal is coming soon. Patrons will be able to access the online portal to register for activities, get updates on enrolled classes, and signup for citywide special events. The online portal is scheduled to go live in Spring 2020.

To get started with the registration process, a primary household account must be created and include all pertinent information such as name, address, age, emergency contacts, etc. This information will automatically be placed on registration forms and receipts when checking out. Family members may be added to the primary account once it has been created.

The site will also allow account holders to view a facility rental availability and make a payment. Although the online transactions are a convenient way to register and get the information about programs, the Department will continue to conduct business over the counter in a courteous and professional manner. The City is excited to offer this new and convenient customer experience.

FITPASS FITNESS PROGRAM

The Healthy New Year is off to a great start. The community is taking advantage of the fitness classes offered at Recreation Park through the FitPass Program. Participants purchase a pass for $35 and are able to attend any of the five classes being offered throughout the week: Zumba, Cycling, Total Body Conditioning, Boxing and Yoga. The pass is good for 10 classes.

FitPass sales stats (January 2020 - February 2020):

In March 2020, the “Spring Into Health” promotion will start and extend through June 2020. To help motivate participation, a 20% discount on passes will be offered during April 2020.

NEW! MISSION CITY PONY BASEBALL LEAGUE

A new Pony Baseball league is forming for youth in and around the Las Palmas Park community. Registration is now being accepted for the new Mission City Pony Baseball League! Division include: T-Ball (ages 3 to 4), Shetland (ages 5 to 6), Pinto (ages 7 to 8), Mustang (ages 9 to 10), Bronco (ages 11 to 12), and Pony (ages 13 to 14).

Contact Las Palmas Park for more information: 818.898.7340.

TINY TYKE SOCCER CLINIC

The Spring Tiny Tykes Soccer Clinic is scheduled to begin on March 16, 2020 and run through May 20, 2020, at Layne Park. The 10-week program will focus on teaching participants between the ages of 4 and 6 the basic fundamentals of soccer: passing, receiving, dribbling, shooting and goalkeeping. Each participant will receive a program t-shirt and participation award at the conclusion of the program. Picture packets available but sold separately. .

Contact Las Palmas Park for more information: 818.898.7340.

YOUTH BASKETBALL WINTER LEAGUE

The Youth Basketball Winter League is coming to an end. Now is the time for the teams to shine and claim their spot for a chance at the Championship! On March 7, 2020, the Recreation and Community Services Department will host the first round of playoffs for the Upper Division teams, ages 9-14. Championship games, trophy presentation and annual Coach’s Game are scheduled for March 14, 2020, beginning at 9 am. The day’s events will include music by DJ Valley Beats and a Halftime Free Throw Contest for parents.

The Winter Season served 93 participants with 11 teams in three age divisions: Rookies (7-8), Magic (9-10) and Legends (11-14). 

Registration for the Summer League and Tiny Tykes Basketball Clinic are now open! Call Recreation Park for additional information: 818.898.1290.

ADULT SPORTS SPRING LEAGUE

Registration for the Men’s Wooden Bat Softball and Adult Basketball Spring Leagues are underway. Registration for Adult Coed Softball have closed with seven teams registered. Team registration must be accompanied by full payment and cash forfeit fees. Leagues are set to begin the first week of March 2020. All games are played at Recreation Park. Call Recreation Park for additional information: 818.898.1290.

LOS ANGELES REGIONAL FOOD BANK

The Los Angeles Regional Food Bank offers a monthly food package distribution program at Las Palmas Park. On the first Monday of the month, eligible seniors ages 60 and over are provided with a free food kit with specific nutritional needs such as meats, canned fruits and vegetables, dry milk and related products, cereals and other grain products, and much more. Contact Las Palmas Park for additional information: 818.898.7340.

PARKS, WELLNESS AND RECREATION COMMISSION

The Parks, Wellness and Recreation Commission met on February 11, 2020, for their regular monthly meeting. Items discussed included the upcoming renovations at Las Palmas Park, the new program registration software, the Mission City Pony Baseball League, the Open Streets event and the Wild Horse Foundation Partnership. The next regular meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 10, 2020. Meeting agendas and audio recordings are available via the City website: WWW.SFCITY.ORG. 

TUTCINT YOUTH EMPOWERMENT PROGRAM

The Tutcint Youth Empowerment Program continues to serve teenage youth between the ages of 13 and 17. Approximatlely 15 to 18 youth and 8 to 10 adults attend the program regularly. On Thursday, February 9, 2020, the program held a presentation and demonstration on Mesoamerican Ballgame facilitated by Raul Herrera in Las Palmas Park Gym.  

Programming with youth is held on Tuesdays and Thursdays and alternating Saturdays at Las Palmas Park. Facilitators come in from various organizations. For more information on the Tutcint Youth Empowerment Program please call 818-898-7362.

HEART, MIND, AND SOUL HEALTH AND WELLNESS FAIR

On February 22, 2020, the Recreation and Community and Services Department, in partnership with Valley Care Community Consortium and the Office of Tony Cardenas, hosted the annual Heart, Mind, and Soul Health and Wellness Fair at San Fernando Recreation Park. The free event reached over 200 participants. In addition to information on local resources, services included blood pressure checks, glucose screenings, balance tests, and oral health screenings. A huge thank you goes out to our vendors and volunteers. A special acknowledgement to our supporters, Valley Presbyterian Hospital and San Fernando Community Health Center.

WILSON CANYON HIKE

On February 22, 2020, the City, in partnership with National Parks Conservation Association, conducted a pop up hike at Wilson Canyon Trail Head. In spite of the light showers and cool weather, participants enjoyed a scenic hike with beautiful views of the valley. Hikers learned to identify some of the native plants such as buckwheat, blackberry and beautiful oak trees. Staff is organizing another hike April 2020. Check the City website for updates periodically for upcoming hiking and camping events: WWW.SFCITY.ORG/WHATS-NEW or call Las Palmas Park at 818.898.7340.