Issue 26 | July 20, 2022
Grover Gazette
Message From the City Manager
Greetings City of Grover Beach,

What does community mean to you? At the 2019 Stone Soup Music and Art Festival, there was a public art activity dedicated to this simple yet thought-provoking question, giving people the opportunity to draw their response on a mural now on display in our Community Center. This question has been on my mind as we are busy at the City of Grover Beach planning for City services, projects and programs in the second half of 2022.
 
For some, community means housing for themselves and their families and loved ones. Grover Beach is comprised primarily of residential areas in our compact two square miles, where people have pride in living and are taking steps to invest further in their properties. Housing can also mean helping those in need who are experiencing homelessness or at risk of being homeless. As part of our Housing and Homelessness goal, the City is not only taking action to make it easier for people to develop properties, but is also partnering with 5CHC and the County to provide shelter spaces for homeless individuals to be housed and obtain services.
 
For others, community means other foundational elements such as public safety and public infrastructure. We are a safe City and have an excellent Police Department and Fire Authority who put themselves on the line to help ensure the City's safety. Like other cities in California, we have challenges such as rising property crimes and we are dedicated to facing these challenges with resolve and commitment despite limited staffing levels. Commitment also describes our approach to infrastructure as we continue to build a better Grover Beach from the ground up. Our street repair work continues to improve travel for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians, and we have nearly $6 million in projects lined up this fiscal year on 50 blocks of streets, including West Grand.

Community also means people. I tend to focus on people when I think of this question of community. Grover Beach has long been a community for all with it's diversity, demographics and different perspectives - not to mention a dose of free-spirited coastal charm. We have a down-to-earth, friendly vibe that invites you to be part of the community no matter who you are or where you came from. From residents who enjoy Sunday afternoons at our summer concerts to business owners who put their heart and soul into serving customers, Grover Beach has amazing people who care deeply for their community.
 
Whatever community means to you, thank you for being part of this community we call Grover Beach. We’re always striving to improve how we can help our residents and businesses thrive. Let us know what we can do to assist you at (805) 473-4567 or [email protected]. Enjoy the rest of your summer!

Sincerely,

Matthew Bronson
City Manager
In the News
Water Conservation Rebate Programs
Due to the intense statewide drought, conserving water is more important than ever. The City of Grover Beach has many different rebate programs available to help you save money and meet the mandatory 10% reduction in water consumption! Programs include:

  • Cash for Grass Rebate Program
  • Smart Irrigation Controller and Sensor Rebate Program
  • Toilet Fixtures, Showerheads and Aerators Retrofit Program
  • Washing Machine Program
Grover Beach Reaches Milestone in Homeless Housing Facility Development
Following the City of Grover Beach’s acquisition of the property at 955 South 4th Street for homeless housing facility use in March 2022, the City Council approved a ground lease agreement with 5Cities Homeless Coalition (5CHC) to develop and operate a future facility during the June 27 City Council Meeting.

Join the Summer Fun in Grover Beach!
The City of Grover Beach Parks and Recreation Department is excited to offer residents and visitors a wide range of programs, classes and events this summer. As the summer heats up, the City is offering a robust variety of classes that allow residents to explore new interests and engage in fun activities.

Grover Beach Police Department Advances Capabilities Through Technological Improvements
The City of Grover Beach’s Police Department has incorporated various smart technologies into its operations to effectively serve the City, reduce labor costs and provide better services to residents, businesses and visitors. The technological advancements include Drone Equipment, a Mobile Command Vehicle, Red Dot Firearms, Axon Body Cameras and Robot Instruments.

Staff Spotlight
Police Department Command Staff
The Grover Beach Police Department is directed by Chief of Police John Peters and commanded by Administration Commander Bryan Millard and Operations Commander Jim Munro. The Department has a tradition of encouraging education and training opportunities for all staff members. This tradition continues with both Commanders continuing their law enforcement education through prestigious leadership courses from the California Peace Officer Standards and Training Command College and the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s National Academy.

Chief John Peters was appointed Chief of Police for the Grover Beach Police Department in June 2015. He is a 28-year law enforcement veteran with experience in Massachusetts, Kansas and California. Chief Peters has a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and is a graduate of the Sherman Block Supervisory Leadership Institute Class #228, POST Executive Development Course, POST-Command College Class #51 and F.B.I. National Command Course Class #1. He is also a certified Emergency Management Specialist in the State of California. Chief Peters is a Board Member of the California Peace Officers Memorial Foundation honoring fallen law enforcement officers in our state.

Commander Bryan Millard joined the Grover Beach Police Department in November 2020 as a Commander. Commander Millard is a 22-year law enforcement veteran with prior experience as a Commander in Morro Bay and as the Chief of Police for Cuesta College in San Luis Obispo. Commander Millard holds a bachelor’s degree in Film Studies and a master’s degree in Public Administration. His previous education consists of the Sherman Block Supervisory Leadership Institute Class #259, POST Executive Development Course, L.A.P.D. Leadership Program #08-15 and is currently attending POST Command College Class #69. Commander Millard is a board member for California Central Coast Cops and Kids Inc. and the Boys and Girls Club of South San Luis Obispo County.  

Commander Jim Munro joined the Grover Beach Police Department in November 2021 as a Commander. Commander Munro is a 23-year law enforcement veteran with prior experience as a Lieutenant in Clovis, California. Commander Munro has a bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology and a master’s degree in Law Enforcement and Public Safety Leadership. He is a graduate of the Sherman Block Supervisory Leadership Institute Class #403, as well as a member of the California Police Chief’s Association Technology and Communications Committees. He is currently attending the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia.
Upcoming Meetings & Events
City Hall Schedule

City Council Meeting
July 25 @ 6 p.m.

Planning Commission Meeting
August 2 @ 6 p.m.

Parks, Recreation & Beautification Commission Meeting
August 18 @ 6 p.m.

City Council Meeting
August 22 @ 6 p.m.

Labor Day - City Hall Closed
September 5, 2022

Planning Commission Meeting
September 6 @ 6 p.m.


Community Events
Goldens in the Park


Grover Beach Parks and Recreation Department and SLO County Golden Retrievers held the 2022 Goldens in the Park event on July 9th at Mentone Basin Park. Thank you to those that brought out their four-legged friends! It was great to see the community come together to bond with their furry family members during the Dog/Owner parade, Agility Course, Silent Auction and more! We look forward to the next event.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Grover Beach Parks and Recreation Department is currently seeking volunteers to assist with programs and special events held throughout the year. Volunteer opportunities include sports programs, office work and special event support. The City also needs volunteers to help keep the South County Skate Park clean, safe and fun for everyone. Students needing community service hours are encouraged to volunteer with the City.

Instructors wanted! The Parks and Recreation Department is looking for enthusiastic individuals to teach classes for older adults, teens and youth. Topics and schedules can be tailored to meet your individual availability.

If you would like to volunteer, please submit a completed volunteer application form (PDF) in person directly to the Parks and Recreation Department at Grover Beach Community Center, 1230 Trouville Avenue.
Know the Code
How the Grover Beach Municipal Code (GBMC) City Rules Affect You
South County Skate Park Rules & Regulations

As the South County Skate Park brings skateboarders and roller skaters together from all over the County, there are some rules and regulations visitors should be aware of:

  • While skateboards, scooters and roller skates are allowed at the park, bikes are not permitted 
  • All participants must wear a helmet, elbow pads and knee pads
  • No smoking, alcohol or drugs
  • Pets are not allowed
  • Visitors are expected to help keep the park clean, safe and fun for everyone

The South County Skate Park is located at 1750 Ramona Avenue and is free and open to the public during daylight hours since there are no lights at the park. The skate park is also available to rent for special events. If you are interested, please contact the Grover Beach Parks and Recreation Department at [email protected] or (805) 473-4580. 
We're Hiring!
Work with us! City Employment Opportunities Include:
  • Assistant Engineer
  • Engineer Technician
  • Police Officer - Lateral Transfer/Academy Graduate
City of Grover Beach
154 S 8th Street
Grover Beach, CA 93433
(805) 473-4550