Elaine P. Litster Appointed as Mayor Pro Tem

Following the City Council's annual reorganization meeting on December 15th, 2025, Council Member Elaine P. Litster was unanimously appointed as Mayor Pro Tem for 2026. The Mayor Pro Tem serves as the City’s second-in-command and presides over City Council meetings when the Mayor is unavailable. She previously served in this role in 2022.

In addition to her City Council duties, Mayor Pro Tem Litster will serve as Vice Chair of the Ventura County Waterworks District No. 8 Board, Vice Chair of the Simi Valley Public Facilities Financing Authority, and President Pro Tem of the Simi Valley Library Board of Trustees.

Watch the December 15th City Council meeting on the City’s YouTube channel.

New Bus Stop Signs Coming Soon


Beginning in early 2026, Simi Valley Transit will install new bus stop signs across all routes to make it easier for riders to navigate our local transportation system. The updated signs will feature route-specific QR codes that link directly to digital schedules, maps, fare information, and service updates, reducing the need for printed materials. Each sign will also display a bus icon identifying which specific routes serve each stop.

Riders can also access real-time bus locations and arrival information online at GOVCBus.com/map or by using the GoVCBus mobile app. Along with the City’s new electric buses and Transit On Demand service, these improvements make riding Simi Valley Transit easier, more convenient, and accessible for everyday trips.

For more information, visit simivalley.org/transit or call (805) 583-6456.

Local Business Updates

The final months of 2025 brought exciting growth to Simi Valley's business community with several new openings and expansions across dining, healthcare, education, and retail. 

Food lovers have something new to enjoy with the opening of a second Urbane Café location on Tapo Canyon Road. Known for its handcrafted sandwiches, fresh salads, and daily-baked focaccia, the fast-casual favorite remains a popular spot in Simi Valley. Shoppers will also find added convenience with Party City opening inside Staples on Cochran Street, offering an easy one-stop destination for party supplies and celebration essentials.

Several new businesses focused on health, wellness, and family services also joined the community. Action Drug Rehab and Mental Health opened to provide outpatient addiction treatment and mental health services, supporting individuals and families on their path to recovery. Kids Dental Pals brought a new pediatric dental and orthodontic practice offering a welcoming environment designed to make dental visits comfortable and positive for kids. In education, Mathnasium launched personalized math tutoring and enrichment programs to build student confidence and academic success. Additionally, Adventist Health Simi Valley expanded its urology department, improving access to advanced specialty care with enhanced facilities and increased availability.

We are pleased to welcome these new and expanding businesses and value the role they play in strengthening our local economy.

Holiday Express Train Brings Cheer to Simi Valley

Thank you to everyone who joined us for Metrolink’s Annual Holiday Express Train event on Sunday, December 21st. Families arrived in festive style, many in matching pajamas, and enjoyed crafts, activities, and complimentary hot cocoa and coffee courtesy of Lucky Dog Cafe.

Special thanks to Metrolink for hosting this joyful tradition, and to the Simi Valley Police Department, Simi Valley Public Library, and Youth Council for spreading holiday cheer at their City-sponsored booths. We’re already looking forward to next year!

Community Development Block Grant Workshop

The City will host a mandatory workshop for non-profit and local government organizations interested in applying for the Fiscal Year 2026–27 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. The workshop will take place on Thursday, January 22nd, at 9:00 a.m. in the Community Room at City Hall, 2929 Tapo Canyon Road.

The workshop will provide an overview of the CDBG application process. Attendance is required to be eligible for funding.

For the Fiscal Year 2026-27 cycle, the City will consider capital improvement projects only. Grant funding, provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), supports projects that benefit low- and moderate-income Simi Valley residents.

To register, email lscaringe@simivalley.org and reference the CDBG Application Workshop. For more information, call (805) 583-6749 or visit the City's CDBG website.

January Neighborhood Council Meetings

Looking for an easy way to stay informed, hear City updates, and connect with what’s happening in your neighborhood? Community members are encouraged to attend the City's monthly Neighborhood Council meetings. These meetings offer residents a regular opportunity to ask questions, share concerns, and engage in conversations about their neighborhood and the City.

This month’s meetings will feature an informational presentation from Ventura County Animal Services, including coyote safety tips and updates on local animal shelters. Residents will also have an opportunity to provide feedback on Short-Term Rentals, a topic the City Council has asked Neighborhood Councils to discuss as part of future consideration.

Neighborhood Council Executive Boards meet monthly at 7:00 p.m. Meeting locations vary by district.

January Neighborhood Council Meeting Schedule:

• District #1 on Thursday, January 8th, in City Hall Community Room, 2929 Tapo Canyon Rd 
• District #2 on Tuesday, January 13th, in the Simi Valley Public Library's Community Room, 2969 Tapo Canyon Rd
• District #3 on Thursday, January 15th, in the City Hall Community Room, 2929 Tapo Canyon Rd
• District #4 on Tuesday, January 20th, in the Simi Valley Public Library's Community Room, 2969 Tapo Canyon Rd 

Residents who are unable to attend in person are still encouraged to stay engaged by reviewing meeting materials and sharing feedback when available. For more information, call (805) 583-6756 or visit the City's Neighborhood Councils website.

Join our Simi Valley Team

The City is rolling out a new way to connect community members with career opportunities. Look for colorful “Career” magnets on City vehicles around town, highlighting job openings in public safety, public works, administration, and more.

Each magnet features a QR code that makes it easy to explore opportunities by scanning or visiting simivalley.org/careers. Consider a rewarding career in public service with the City of Simi Valley.

A New Year of Fun at the Senior Center

Welcome to 2026! The Simi Valley Senior Center invites residents ages 50 and better to make the most of the new year with a wide variety of classes, activities, and social opportunities designed to inspire, energize, and connect.

Try something new with creative classes like guitar, pottery, stained glass, painting, woodworking, foreign languages, and technology. Stay active with fitness and movement options, including aerobics, tap dance, tai chi, curling, fit drumming, and belly dance. Connect with others in activities like ballroom dance, book clubs, ukulele, paper crafting groups, and more.

Whether exploring a new hobby or enjoying a favorite pastime, the Senior Center is the perfect place to stay engaged and have fun all year long. Check out the recap video from 2025 to see a highlight of various programs.

Simi Valley Bicycle Master Plan Update

The City is updating its Bicycle Master Plan, a community-focused roadmap for making it easier, safer, and more comfortable to bike around Simi Valley. The revised plan outlines ideas for future bike lanes, paths, and programs that could help people of all ages feel confident riding for school, work, errands, or recreation.

While the plan doesn’t commit funding, it lays the groundwork for potential improvements as grants and other resources become available. It reflects community input, best practices, and Simi Valley’s unique character — all aimed at improving safety, reducing bike-vehicle conflicts, and strengthening connections to schools, parks, trails, shopping areas, and neighborhoods.

This effort is funded through the State of California’s Active Transportation Grant Program, administered by the Ventura County Transportation Commission. It updates the City’s 2008 plan to better align with today’s needs and community priorities.

Volunteers Needed for Annual Homeless Point-in-Time Count

Help make a difference by volunteering for the 2026 Homeless Point-in-Time Count on Wednesday, January 28th. This annual effort provides critical data on homelessness in Ventura County and helps secure state and federal funding.

Volunteers play a key role in ensuring the count is accurate and compassionate. Shifts begin at sunrise and last about two hours, making it an easy way to give back. Participants will also receive information about a required training on Tuesday, January 20th, at 1:30 p.m. at the Simi Valley Public Library.

For questions, email VenturaCoC@Ventura.org.

Join the Citizens Police Academy

The Simi Valley Police Department is offering its Citizens Police Academy, a free 10-week program designed to provide an inside look at police operations and the criminal justice system.

Classes are held weekly on Thursdays from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., starting on Thursday, March 12th through Thursday, May 14th, at the Simi Valley Police Department. Participants will learn about narcotics, K-9 units, dispatch, patrol, investigations, gangs, SWAT, traffic enforcement, and more. 

The program is open to adults who live or work in Simi Valley and limited to 24 participants who meet eligibility requirements. Applications must be submitted by Friday, January 23rd. To apply, call (805) 583-6287 and leave your name, address, and phone number.

CERT Spring Registration Now Open

The City of Simi Valley Office of Emergency Services is accepting applications for the Spring 2026 Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training. This free, FEMA-based program teaches residents how to prepare for and respond to emergencies.

Classes will meet weekly from March 4th through April 8th, on Wednesday evenings from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Simi Valley Police Department, followed by a one-day disaster simulation at the Ventura County Fire Department Regional Training Center in Camarillo. Participants will learn disaster preparedness, fire safety, light search and rescue, disaster medical operations, and team organization.

The training is open to anyone 12 years or older who lives or works in Simi Valley. Participants ages 12–17 must enroll with a parent or guardian. Space is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. To register, email cert@simivalley.org with name, address, phone number, and email address.

Workforce Readiness Support for 2026

The City of Simi Valley offers free one-on-one job coaching for young people, ages 15 to 22, through its Youth Employment Service (YES) program. Participants can meet individually with the YES Coordinator for help with résumé reviews, interview practice, job applications, and other essential employment skills.

Whether you're looking for your first job or preparing for the next step in your career, the Youth Employment Service is here to assist you. To schedule an appointment or learn more, email yes@simivalley.org or call (805) 583-6766.

Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center Events

The heart of the arts in Simi Valley is your local hub for theater, concerts, comedy, art, and community events. From award-winning shows to gallery exhibits, there’s something for everyone. Join us for the fun, or volunteer and be part of the magic! Below are a few of this month's events:

• January is Refresh Month: Fresh paint, a deep clean, and organizing are underway at the Cultural Arts Center (CAC) in preparation for 350+ events in 2026, including Legally Blonde, SpongeBob SquarePants, CraftFest, the Hispanic Heritage Festival, and more. Visit the new website at svcac.org to learn more.
• Thursday, February 12th: Get tickets now for Love and Laughs Comedy Night, an unforgettable night of Love and Laughter at a gala fundraiser hosted by the Simi Valley Library Foundation, benefiting the Simi Valley Library. The show starts at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $60, with a $3 surcharge per ticket.
• Call to Artists Deadline on Tuesday, January 20th: The CAC invites Black artists to submit up to five two-dimensional artworks for Legacy in Color: Celebrating Black History Through Art, curated by guest artist Marshall Toomey. The exhibition honors Black culture through visual storytelling and artistic expression. Exhibit dates are Thursday, February 26th through Sunday, March 22nd.

Simi Valley Senior Center Events

The Simi Valley Senior Center offers a wide variety of programming each month, including workshops on relevant senior topics and concerns. Here's a snapshot of January.

• Monday, January 12th: Council On Aging meeting at 1:00 p.m.
• Tuesday, January 13th: California Highway Patrol's Age Well, Drive Smart class at 1:00 p.m.
• Tuesday, January 20th: American Red Cross presents California Power Outage Preparedness at 10:30 a.m.
• Wednesday, January 21st: Scam Alert presentation at 12:00 p.m.  
• Wednesday, January 21st: Flower Arranging Workshop at 2:00 p.m.
• Thursday, January 22nd and Friday, January 23rd: AARP Smart Driver class at 12:30 p.m. You may be eligible to reduce your car insurance premiums. Registration and fee required. 
• Thursday, January 22nd: Stand-up Comedy show at 3:00 p.m.
• Monday, January 26th: 6-week Senior Walking class at 8:30 a.m. Registration required.

Call the Simi Valley Senior Center at (805) 583-6363 or stop by the front desk to reserve a seat for any of the workshops or events listed above.

Friends of the Library Corner

Happy New Year! The Friends of the Library have many books to read and enjoy in 2026. In addition to fiction and nonfiction, the bookstore also carries audiobooks, music, and Spanish books. Proceeds from local sales directly support the Simi Valley Public Library. Save this date for the first Bookstore Blowout event of the year on Saturday, February 21st. They can't wait to see you.  Visit www.simivalleylibrary.org/friends-of-the-library to learn more or follow on Facebook @Simi Valley Friends of the Library.

Preventing Stormwater Pollution

When it rains in Simi Valley, the rainwater drains into the storm drain system, a network of drains that lead directly into the Arroyo Simi. Along the way, rainwater picks up pollutants such as pet waste, oil, metals, bacteria, and trash, which flow directly into fish and wildlife habitats. This stormwater pollution can kill or damage plants, fish, and wildlife, and degrade water quality.

The City’s Environmental Compliance Division in Public Works is responsible for helping prevent stormwater pollution and protecting the storm drain system. It does this by providing public outreach and education, conducting industrial and commercial stormwater inspections, responding to and eliminating illicit discharges, and overseeing the maintenance of storm drains with full trash capture (FTC) devices, such as connector pipe screens (CPS).

The City also has the storm drain catch basins cleaned and inspected using CPS units, ensuring these FTC devices are functioning correctly and preventing pollutants, such as trash, from entering the storm drain system. Our local storm drain system is also routinely inspected and cleaned by the City’s Streets Maintenance staff, removing trash and debris, thereby reducing pollutants from entering the Arroyo Simi and minimizing flooding during the rainy season.

Rain Barrel Sale

Calleguas Municipal Water District (MWD) is hosting a Rain Barrel Sale with pre-orders available now.

• Pick-up event is on Saturday, February 7th, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Calleguas MWD.
• Rain barrels are only guaranteed with a pre-order. A limited number is available for purchase at the event.
• Rebate available: A $35 mail-in rebate per barrel (limit of two per household) is available to customers within the Calleguas service area at bewaterwise.com

City Holiday Closures

City offices, including the Simi Valley Public Library, will be closed on Monday, January 19th, in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.