JANUARY 2016
ADMINISTRATION DEPARTMENT

JANUARY HOLIDAY HOURS
In observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, City Hall will be closed on Monday, January 18, 2016.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT

PLANNING AND PRESERVATION COMMISSION MEETING - JANUARY 5, 2016
On January 5, 2016, the Planning and Preservation Commission conducted a public hearing regarding a proposed Zone Text Amendment 2015-01, a draft ordinance establishing regulations for unattended collection boxes within the City. The public hearing was in follow up to the Study Session held on December 8, 2015 at which time the Planning and Preservation Commission provided input to City Planning Staff regarding the proposed draft ordinance. At the public hearing, the Commission was asked to make a recommendation to the City Council on the proposed ordinance. The Commission's recommendation with the draft ordinance will be scheduled for City Council consideration at a noticed public hearing in February of 2016.

PUBLIC SCOPING MEETING ON SPECIFIC PLAN AMENDMENT EIR - JANUARY 7, 2016
On January 7, 2016, at 6 pm, a Public Scoping Meeting will be held in the Council Chambers (117 Macneil Street, San Fernando, CA 91340). The Scoping Meeting will provide information regarding the Project and to present potential environmental impacts associated with the Project.  A Notice Preparation of Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the Project was mailed out to responsible public agencies as well as interested parties required to receive copies starting on December 21, 2015. A copy of the NOP that includes a description of the Project and the Project Location is available for public review on the City of San Fernando Website at: www.sfcity.org. NOP was posted on the City's website, at the City Hall Bulletins, and a copy of the NOP and the Notice of Scoping Meeting (in English and Spanish) was also published in the San Fernando Valley Sun Newspaper.
FINANCE DEPARTMENT

CITY ANNOUNCES NEW BUSINESS LICENSE PROCESS
The City of San Fernando is pleased to announce the new and improved Business License Program that, among other improvements, allows online business license renewals and the ability to pay with a credit card.  The City has always valued its relationship with the business community and the improved program is intended to streamline the licensing procedure for businesses operating in the City limits of San Fernando.

The City has contracted with the HdL Companies to provide assistance to the business community for business licensing needs.  The HdL Business Support Center will provide the business community with support for all aspects of licensing, including: application, payment, certificate issuance, and general support.

The Business Support Center offers extended telephone support hours (Monday through Friday from  8 am to 5 pm) via phone at 818.898.1211 or via email at [email protected].

During the upcoming renewal period, the Business Support Center will also offer a variety of online support options allowing for filing and paying a business license online as well as obtain copies of forms and other relevant information. To file, renew, or pay a balance on-line please visit http://SanFernando.hdlgov.com/ or call 818.898.1211.

AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The City's Audited Financial Statements (CAFR) for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2015 are now available on the City's website ( CLICK HERE to view).  In February 2016, the Finance Department will provide a comprehensive presentation to City Council on the City's finances, including a review of Fiscal Year 2014-2015 audited financials, Fiscal Year 2015-2016 Mid-Year Budget Review, and the upcoming Fiscal Year 2016-2017 Budget Outlook.

PUBLIC MEETINGS 

AND

CITY HALL HOURS
JANUARY 1
CITY HALL CLOSED
(Holiday - In Observance of New Year's Day)
JANUARY 4
City Council & 
Successor Agency
Regular Meeting
Council Chambers
117 Macneil Street
San Fernando
DARK (No Meeting) | 818.898.1204
JANUARY 5
Planning & Preservation Commission
Regular Meeting
Council Chambers
117 Macneil Street
San Fernando
6:30 pm | 818.898.1227
JANUARY 8
CITY HALL CLOSED
JANUARY 12
Parks, Wellness and Recreation Commission
Regular Meeting
Council Chambers
117 Macneil Street
San Fernando
6:30 pm | 818.898.1290
JANUARY 14
Oversight Board 
Regular Meeting
Council Chambers
117 Macneil Street
San Fernando
CANCELLED | 818.898.7307
JANUARY 18
CITY HALL CLOSED
(Holiday - In Observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day)
JANUARY 19 (Tues)
City Council & 
Successor Agency
Regular Meeting
Council Chambers
117 Macneil Street
San Fernando
6 pm | 818.898.1204
JANUARY 20
Transportation & Safety Commission
Special Meeting
Council Chambers
117 Macneil Street
San Fernando
CANCELLED | 818.898.1222
JANUARY 22
CITY HALL CLOSED
JANUARY  28
Senior Citizens Advisory Board
Regular Meeting
Las Palmas Park
505 S. Huntington Street
San Fernando
1 pm | 818.898.7340
AVOID LATE FEES ON YOUR WATER BILL
Have you ever received late fees because you forgot to pay your Water Bill? Avoid late fees by signing up for AutoPay and have your Water Bill debited from your account automatically. 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, and the Measure A Annual Report can be found under the Finance Department page on the City's website (WWW.SFCITY.ORG).
POLICE DEPARTMENT

28TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS BASKETS PROGRAM
On December 22, 2015, the San Fernando Police Department and San Fernando Police Advisory Council conducted the 28th Annual Christmas Basket Program. 
Volunteers from both organizations, Councilmembers Antonio Lopez and Jaime Soto, Senator Robert Hertzberg, and of course,Santa Claus, delivered Christmas Baskets and food to needy families and the elderly in the City of San Fernando. Over 100 baskets and food were delivered giving joy to numerous children. This was truly a joyous day for the San Fernando community.
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT

SANDBAGS READY AT CITY YARD
With weather agencies predicting a strong likelihood of El NiƱo storm conditions this winter, our Public Works team has begun to make preparations for possible storm events.  Last week, approximately 5,500 sandbags were delivered to the City Yard and will be available to the community, at no charge, during the winter.  For more information, please contact Public Works at 818.898.1293.

SEWER INSPECTION/ CLEANING UPDATE
With the sewer television inspection/cleaning work now complete, staff is beginning to upload this information into the City's GIS system in order to make it easy to understand and use. Once updated into the GIS system, staff will be able to identify system issues (e.g., cracks, fractures, blockages) by street location and prioritize maintenance improvements like point repairs and sewer lining. The diagram to the right shows how this information is uploaded into our GIS system.

Work is also underway to identify flow monitoring locations for our sewer system. Flow monitors are used to help track sewer flows and better gauge capacity conditions. Best practices in sewer system management typically involve both dry weather and wet weather flow monitoring in order to identify possible infiltration in the system (i.e., water entering through cracked manholes or pipes). As part of the monitoring, staff will also further analyze locations where the City of Los Angeles conveys sewage into our system. This information hasn't been tracked historically and it will provide a better idea of the quantity of sewage entering the City from outside locations. After completing and analyzing the flow monitoring data, work will initiate on developing feasibility plans for improvements to our system, if necessary.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS - TRANSPORTATION SERVICES
Work is underway on developing a request for proposal document to provide transportation services in the community, including dial-a-ride and trolley/fixed route services.  As you'll recall, the current agreement for these services expires in June 2016 and the City Council provided input into the preparation of a new RFP/agreement.  As part of the RFP, staff will look at existing schedules to determine if modifications can be made to improve on-time system performance, possible partnerships with other transit providers (e.g., City of Los Angeles, Access Services, County of LA) to help enhance local services, and the future use of 18-passenger buses that are "wrapped" to look like trolleys when the existing trolleys exceed their useful life.  It is expected that this work will continue through January 2016 and then the RFP will be released to the public.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS - ENERGY EFFICIENCY IMPROVEMENTS
Over the last several months, work has progressed on a request for proposal document for energy efficiency improvements to the City's infrastructure, including facilities, lights, and monitoring systems (e.g., meters, thermostats).  As you're aware, this topic was identified as a City Council priority that will help to improve the City's infrastructure and reduce ongoing expenditures.  As part of the RFP, staff hopes to implement a performance-based energy conservation effort that includes energy audits, the design/installation of new systems, ongoing maintenance, project financing, and grant funding opportunities.  It is hoped that this RFP will be ready for distribution in mid-January 2016 and will be presented to the City Council for their consideration in February/March 2016.

GRANT-FUNDED IMPROVEMENTS AT RECREATION PARK
As you're aware, the City was awarded roughly $200,000 to complete improvements at Recreation Park, including HVAC system upgrades, door/window improvements, gymnasium floor refinishing, and tot lot/play equipment improvements.   Work will get underway on HVAC improvements and floor refinishing in January 2016.  This timeframe was selected to minimize scheduling impacts at the gym.  It is expected that a contract for play equipment and door/window improvements will be presented to the City Council for consideration at their January 19, 2016 meeting, with work to get underway in February 2016.   These improvements will help to beautify our local park facilities and improve energy efficiency. Staff will be sure to keep you informed as work moves forward.

BRAND BOULEVARD WATERWISE MEDIAN PROJECT UPDATE
Work continues to progress along Brand Boulevard.  Planters ar e being installed, including decomposed granite, plant landscaping areas, and synthetic turf areas.  It is expected that landscaping/trees will be installed in January 2016.  Once completed, these improvements will serve as a welcoming entry to the City and also demonstrate the City's commitment to water conservation.

RECREATION & COMMUNITY SERVICES DEPARTMENT

MUSIC INSTRUCTION
A new music class for adults and senior is now being offered and will focus on guitar and mandolin instruction in a student music group setting known as an "estidiantina."

WHERE: Las Palmas Park, 505 S. Huntington Street, San Fernando

WHEN: Tuesdays

TIME: 9:30 am to 11:30 am

COST: $20 per Month

AGE: 18 and Older

INFO: 818.898.1290

ALL ABILITIES ART CLASSES
A fun shapes approach class that is highly successful with individual learning styles! Differently abled children are welcome together with children with no special needs. Classes are taught by Art Coach Diane Bernstein.

WHERE: Las Palmas Park, 505 S. Huntington Street, San Fernando

WHEN: Thursdays 

TIME: 3 pm to 4 pm

COST: $35 for Residents / $40 for Non-Residents

DURATION:
4-Week Session

AGE: Kindergarten through 5th Grade

INFO: 818.898.1290

BALLET FOLKLORICO
Based in the classical style of Mexican Culture, experience the regional dances of Mexico through movement and music. Class meets ONCE a week. 

WHERE: Las Palmas Park, 505 S. Huntington Street, San Fernando

WHEN: Wednesday (Intermediate/Advanced)
Friday (Beginner/Intermediate)

TIME: 7 to 8 pm

COST: $45 per Session

DURATION: 12-Week Session (Session 1: January 2016 through March 2016)

AGE: 5 and older

INFO: 818.898.1290

AZTEC DANCE
Explore the music, choreography and poetry of this ancient dance tradition while understanding the history behind Danza. Class meets ONCE a week. Registration is on-going. Sessions are eight weeks long.

WHERE: Las Palmas Park, 505 S. Huntington Street, San Fernando

WHEN: Thursdays 

TIME: 7 pm to 9 pm

COST: $10 Per Session

DURATION:
8-Week Session (Session 1: January 2016 through February 2016)

AGE: Kindergarten through 5th Grade

INFO: 818.898.1290

LINE DANCE
For the last 20 years, a group of fun-loving dancers have been found warming up, learning, and practicing a different series of line dances at Recreation Park in the City of San Fernando. All ages are welcome and no partner is required. Each dance is broken down step-by-step, whereby participants increase their balance, coordination, and endurance. These Western American Line dancers also perform at least twice a year in the community and keep American traditions alive.

WHERE: Recreation Park, 208 Park Avenue, San Fernando

WHEN: Friday

TIME: 10:30 am to 11:30 am

COST: $10 Per Session

DURATION:
8-Week Session (Session 1: January 2016 through February 2016)

AGE: All Ages

INFO: 818.898.1290

LOPEZ ADOBE
Visit this historic San Fernando jewel! The Lopez Adobe historical landmark offers free guided tours from 1 pm to 4 pm, on the fourth Sunday of each month are now available! Contact Recreation Park at 818.898.1290 for more information.

ADULT CO-ED VOLLEYBALL LEAGUE
Register now! The new season begins January 19, 2016.

WHERE: Recreation Park, 208 Park Avenue, San Fernando

WHEN: Tuesday Night (Advanced League)
Thursday Night (Amateur League)

TIME: 7 pm

COST: $30 Participation Fee

REGISTER: Recreation Park, 208 Park Avenue, San Fernando
WWW.SFRCS.COM

AGE: 18 and Older

INFO: 818.898.1290

YOUTH BASKETBALL
Now accepting registration! The new season begins January 2016. Fee includes practice, games, jersey, and trophy.Coaches needed; if interested, please contact Recreation Park at 818.898.1290. 

WHERE: Recreation Park, 208 Park Avenue, San Fernando

COST: Ages 5 - 8: $80 for Residents / $90 for Non-Residents
Ages 9 - 17: $85 for Residents / $95 for Non-Residents

INFO: 818.898.1290

NEW! YOUTH CHEERLEADING
Register now! The season begins January 2016. Fee includes uniform, practice, games, and trophy.

WHERE: Recreation Park, 208 Park Avenue, San Fernando

COST: $75 for Residents / $85 for Non-Residents

AGE: 5 to 17

INFO: 818.898.1290

SPECIAL OLYMPICS
Register now! The season begins January 2016 and will run through June 2016. Currently, the City is scheduled to host basket ball, bocce ball, and the young athlete program. 

WHERE: Las Palmas Park, 505 South Huntington Street, San Fernando

WHEN: Saturdays

TIME: 8 am to 10 am

INFO: 818.898.1290

AFTERSCHOOL TENNIS PROGRAM
Register Now! 

WHERE: Pioneer Park, 828 Harding Street, San Fernando

COST: $10 Per Session

DURATION:
6-Week Session

INFO: 818.898.1290

TEEN PROGRAM
Youth Speak! Collective continues with their afterschool programming at both Las Palmas Park and Recreation park. Now enrolling co-ed youth for the soccer program "Club Futbolito". Fee includes uniform. Limited scholarships are available; contact Recreation Park for more information.

WHERE: Las Palmas Park, 505 South Huntington Street, San Fernando
Recreation Park, 208 Park Avenue, San Fernando

COST: $25 Per Person

INFO: 818.898.1290

FITNESS CLASSES
Join one of the many on-going fitness classes! The new session will begin on January 11, 2016. Contact Recreation Park at 818.898.1290 for further details on classes and workshops.

CLASS DAY TIME

Total Body Conditioning Monday 6:30 pm

Cycling Wednesday 6:30 am

Yoga Thursday 8:15 am

Pilates Tuesday 8:15 pm

Zumba Wednesday
Tuesday/Thursday
5:20 pm
6:30 pm

Latin Jam Workout Monday 5:20 pm

Outdoor Fitness Monday/Wednesday/Friday 8:15 am

Senior Fitness Monday/Wednesday/Friday 8:15 am

AFTER SCHOOL COMMUNITY ENRICHMENT PROGRAM (ASCEP)

The new ASCEP semester begins January 11, 2016. 

 

COMMODITY SUPPLEMENTAL FOOD PROGRAM (CSFP)
The last Los Angeles Regional Food Bank distribution date was January 4, 2015. The program serves low income senior citizens over the age of 60 that are in need of food assistance.  In order to qualify for the program, interested participants brought proof of income and proof of age (identification). CSFP intake workers and agency volunteers registered participants and the truck driver will conduct the physical distribution.  Clients received one free food kit that contained meats, canned fruit, vegetables, dry milk and related products, cereals and other grain products. Usually, the CSFP distributions are conducted once a month on the first Monday of the month.

MEDICARE INFORMATION DATES
Representatives from various Medicare programs are routinely available to answer questions and provide information regarding healthcare plans. This month the following agencies have been scheduled at Las Palmas Park:


1/6/16 9 am to 11 am Lincoln Heritage (Life Insurance/Funeral Planning)

1/15/16 9 am to 11 am
Kaiser Permanente

1/20/16 9 am to 11 am Lincoln Heritage (Life Insurance/Funeral Planning)

SENIOR FITNESS
There are several Senior classes available now. The instructors for the classes are Los Angeles Unified School District Adult School Educators with years of experience teaching older adults. Classes run for six-week sessions. New class sessions begin January 11, 2016. Registration is per session; no pro-rating for late sign-ups and refunds may be provided at the City's discretion. No class on January 18, 2016 and February 15, 2016; Instructors will announce make up classes.

*Registration Promotion -  Register and pay by January 8, 2016 and receive $5 off; Sign up for two classes in the same session and receive $10 off. Only one promotional rate may be redeemed per session. 

STRETCH TO THE MUSIC - Move to the beat of the music. Low impact class with emphasis on strength training, flexibility, balance and endurance. 

INSTRUCTOR:
Deborah Rothschild

WHERE: Las Palmas Park, 505 S. Huntington Street, San Fernando

DAYS: Monday and Wednesday

TIME: 9 am to 10 am

COST: $30 for the 6-week Session*

INFO: 818.898.7340

CARDIO & STRENGTH (AEROBICS) - Looking for a cardio workout? This class will focus on cardio-vascular exercise followed by alternating strength building with hand weights and Tai-Chi.

INSTRUCTOR:
Steve Steinberg

WHERE: Las Palmas Park, 505 S. Huntington Street, San Fernando

DAYS: Monday and Wednesday

TIME: 10:30 am to 11:45 am

COST: $30 for the 6-week Session*

INFO: 818.898.7340

MOVIN' & GROOVIN' TO ZEN - Groove to a healthier you - mind, body, and soul! Help manage arthritis pains, improve flexibility, and strengthen the heart. This class will combine standing yoga positions with Tai-Chi movements that will focus on balance, stretching and meditation with a cardio twist.

INSTRUCTOR:
Steve Zwicker

WHERE: Las Palmas Park, 505 S. Huntington Street, San Fernando

DAYS: Tuesday and Thursday

TIME: 8:30 am to 9:30 am

COST: $30 for the 6-week Session*

INFO: 818.898.7340
JANUARY 16

PECHANGA CASINO EXCURSION
Join the Las Palmas Senior Club for a fun-filled day at the Pechanga Casino.


DEPARTURE:
Las Palmas Park, 505 S. Huntington Street, San Fernando

TIME: 8 am

COST: $10 for Club Members / $15 for Non-Members

INFO: Maribel Perez @ 818.898.7341