Holiday Season Support for Local Retail Centers

This holiday season, Citrus Heights Police Department is expanding safety coverage and beautification support as part of the Holiday Safety Plan to help keep your centers welcoming and well-patrolled during peak shopping weeks. Statewide changes under Proposition 36 strengthened penalties for repeat theft and expanded how incidents can be grounded when offenders return to shopping centers.

These updates have helped Citrus Heights Police Department address retail theft more effectively, and officers are maintaining a stronger presence in shopping centers as holiday activity increases. At the same time, weekend beautification crews are addressing litter, carts, and visible blight quickly so common areas stay clean. These combined efforts, supported by consistent reporting from businesses contributed to this year's drop in illegal camp calls, loitering, and number of abandoned carts.

Continued reporting remains essential. Even if an issue does not require an immediate response, the information helps CHPD identify patterns and allocate resources effectively.

Emergencies or crimes in progress: 9-1-1

Non-emergency issues: (916) 727-5500

Crime prevention support or safety assessments: pop@citrusheights.net

We appreciate your continued partnership and look forward to supporting Citrus Heights businesses throughout the season.

Illegal Dumping Prevention Resources

Business owners put significant effort into keeping their properties clean and welcoming, and Citrus Heights aims to support that work. Illegal dumping is prohibited under City Code and enforced in partnership with the Police Department. Clear signage can help discourage unwanted activity before it occurs and can prompt quick reporting from the public.

The City offers Illegal Dumping Prevention signs that reinforce expectations for the area and serve as a simple deterrent, particularly in locations that are less visible after hours. If you are interested in signs, you may schedule a pickup time with our team. Signs are available on a first come, first served basis, with a limit of two per business.

Recommended placement: near dumpsters, in loading or service areas, behind buildings, or along the edges of parking lots where dumping is more likely to occur.

To learn more about illegal dumping enforcement visit the City website.

Get Ready for 2026 With SBA Business Training Sessions

The SBA continues to offer a wide range of free trainings that support small business growth and day-to-day operations. Upcoming sessions cover topics like getting started with a business plan, understanding federal contracting, learning about state certification pathways, and preparing a strong nomination for the National Small Business Week Awards.

These workshops are designed to give business owners practical tools they can apply immediately and are a helpful way to build new skills for the year ahead.

• Federal contracting workshops introduce the basics of selling goods or services to the federal government, which can open the door to steady, large-scale purchasing opportunities.
• Sessions on state certification pathways explain how qualifying businesses can position themselves for procurement programs and larger pools of competitive contracts.
• Even the introductory business planning workshop can be valuable for established businesses, especially for owners preparing for financing conversations or mapping out growth in the coming year.

Multiple dates are available throughout December and January, with sessions offered online and in person. We encourage business owners to explore the topics that align with their goals and take advantage of these no-cost learning opportunities.

To view the full schedule or register, visit the SBA events page.

Business Highlight: Narenj Mediterranean Grocery

Narenj Mediterranean Grocery recently expanded its Citrus Heights location, adding a deli serving shawarma, falafel, and kebabs.

The expansion complements the store’s existing selection of Middle Eastern groceries, including sweets, spices, and produce. Be sure to visit Narenj Mediterranean Grocery at 7700 Sunrise Blvd, Suite 1300, Citrus Heights.

Business of Distinction Awards Returning in 2026

As the year comes to a close, Citrus Heights extends appreciation to the local businesses that continue to serve our community during the busy holiday season. In January, we will reopen nominations for the next Business of Distinction Award cycle. This quarterly recognition program celebrates businesses that make a meaningful impact in Citrus Heights through service, innovation, leadership, and the day-to-day work that strengthens our local economy.

The first theme of 2026 will highlight Legacy Businesses, recognizing those that have been part of Citrus Heights for more than twenty years. Community members and business owners are encouraged to learn more about the quarterly themes and the nomination process on the Business of Distinction page.

Visit the Business of Distinction page for information on upcoming award categories and how to participate in the 2026 program.

Thank you to everyone who took part in the Business Check-In Survey

Launched in October 2025 as part of the Economic Development Work Plan, the survey helps the City stay grounded in the real, day-to-day experiences of businesses operating in Citrus Heights. The feedback we received on workforce needs, access to financing, technical assistance, and the overall business climate is already helping inform how the Economic Development team prioritizes programs, outreach, and support tools.

The summary below highlights what we heard. If you have additional insights, questions, or experiences you’d like to share, email aaguirre@citrusheights.net.