May 2022 Community Connection newsletter

Community Connection

May 2022

Read the latest about the City of Chula Vista programs, updates, meetings and events in our monthly online newsletter.

City Manager's Message

Greetings,

May will be another busy month with many initiatives and projects coming before the City Council like the Fiscal Year 2023 Proposed Budget and much more. Be sure to sign up for agenda notifications to stay up to date.

The Technology and Privacy Advisory Task Force held its first meeting and began their important work that will ultimately inform a technology and privacy oversight policy for City Council consideration later this year. I am confident in the diverse backgrounds, expertise, and viewpoints that the 12 members bring to this effort and look forward to the public’s participation in their meetings. To know more and participate, visit the Task Force webpage.

Congratulations are in order to the Fire Department on the first anniversary of the Ambulance Transport Program! The program has had great success and benefitted the community in many ways. Learn more below.

Also, be sure to mark your calendars for some exciting events! Back and reimagined is farm-fresh produce at the Third Avenue Village Market launching Sunday, May 8.

Enjoy this month’s newsletter and please contact me if you have any questions or comments.

Maria V. Kachadoorian, City Manager

COVID-19 Update

As a result of a court order, effective immediately, the Order by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) from January 29, 2021, requiring masks on public transportation conveyances and at transportation hubs is no longer in effect. At this time, CDC continues to recommend that people wear masks in indoor public transportation settings.

The most recent COVID-19 report in San Diego County shows a slight uptick in the number of cases in the region. This is not unexpected as we know the virus continues to circulate through the community. The strongest defense against COVID-19 continues to be vaccinations, testing, and mask wearing in indoor settings. Recent infections and a high percentage of vaccinated individuals in San Diego County has slowed transmission throughout the region, however, it is important that everyone stay up-to-date with vaccinations and getting a booster dose when eligible.

More information about vaccines and testing is available on the COVID-19 webpage.

Privacy Task Force Work Underway

The Technology and Privacy Advisory Task Force held its first meeting on April 25. The task force will provide informed policy recommendations governing the use of technology in City operations and services, including public safety, traffic management, community services, economic development and other service areas in the City. The draft policy and recommendations are planned to be presented to the City Council for consideration in the fall of 2022. Results of a scientific public opinion survey conducted by Competitive Edge Research & Communication were presented and discussed.

The 12 members of the committee – selected from 57 applicants – are Art Pacheco, Vice President of Engineering for FICO; Candice Custodio Tan, executive director of Asian Solidarity Collective and director of organizing and campaigns for the Partnership for the Advancement of New Americans; Carlos De La Toba, retired federal law enforcement officer; Charles Walker, a retired database administrator and information technology consultant; Rafal Jankowski, an invasive cardiology field engineer team leader at GE Healthcare; Lucia Napolez, a digital marketing professional; Maria Whitehorse, social services worker with the County of San Diego; Patricia Ruiz, research scientist focused on artificial intelligence and machine learning at Digital Promise Global; Sophia Rodriguez, a human services specialist with the County of San Diego; Mae Case, program associate with People Assisting the Homeless (PATH) and chair of the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee of PATH; Pedro Rios, program director of the American Friends Service Committee; and Dominic LiMandri, district manager for the Third Avenue Village Association.

Visit the webpage to view the April 25 meeting, access documents and the survey presentation, and find information on future meetings which are open to the public and webcast live.

Introduction to the Budget

The City operates on a fiscal year (FY) calendar that runs from July 1 through June 30 and every year, the City Manager is required to present the City Council with a balanced budget, meaning total expenditures are equal to or less than revenues. City Council adopts the budget as a spending plan for important City services, including public safety, public works, libraries, parks and recreation, economic development, conservation, maintenance and more.

The budget includes more than 200 funds of which the General Fund is the largest. This document reflects City policies and priorities and allocates available funds for City programs and services. The budget is generally composed of an operating budget and a capital budget. The operating budget is for the provision of services such as police, fire, parks and recreation, and libraries. Since these operations represent an ongoing expense, the budgets are prepared for a single fiscal year and expenditures are equal to or less than anticipated revenues.

The capital budget is for long-term capital improvements, facilities, and equipment where revenues are collected over time. Capital programs often extend beyond a single fiscal year, and because of this, capital budgets often include expenditures funded by both current year revenues and funds previously allocated.

Our Finance Department is currently developing the FY 2022-23 proposed budget in coordination with City leadership and departments. The FY 2022-23 City Manager's Proposed Budget will be available for public review in early May 2022.

Two budget workshops were held on April 20 and April 27, and you can see the presentations here.

The FY 2022-23 City Manager's Proposed Budget will be presented to Council at the Tuesday, May 10 City Council meeting. The public hearing and adoption of the FY 2022-23 Proposed Budget by Council is planned to be scheduled for the Tuesday, May 24 Council meeting.

You may submit your comments on the FY 2022-23 Proposed Budget using our Budget Comment Form.

Spotlight on Community Partners

This month we start a new feature, “Spotlight on Community Partners,” to emphasize the importance of these groups to our community. Our first feature is SBCS (formerly known as South Bay Community Services).

SBCS is a community-based nonprofit organization based in Chula Vista which is dedicated to serving children, youth, and families in need with services such as: housing assistance, independent living skills, employment readiness, financial literacy services, mental health counseling, domestic violence and child abuse intervention, juvenile crimes prevention, therapeutic educational programming, and meals and nutritional support.

“SBCS is proud of our 30-year collaboration with the City of Chula Vista. Because of our long-standing partnership, we were able to quickly respond to the COVID-19 pandemic and set up programs that have provided free food to those in need, rent and utility assistance, vaccines, and other supports in addition to sustaining our pre-pandemic services and programs which serve more than 50,000 annually," said Kathie Lembo, President and CEO of SBCS. "We are grateful for the collaboration and are proud of what we have accomplished together to strengthen communities in Chula Vista.”

Through SBCS services, 50,000 individuals have been served, 25,000 families have received emergency food, 530 individuals have been provided transitional housing, 313 youth in transition and 335 children have received mental health support. We salute our SBCS partner and appreciate all they do for the residents of Chula Vista.

Did you know...

…in early April, the Chula Vista Fire Department celebrated the first anniversary of our Ambulance Transport System (ATS). Service to Chula Vista, Bonita and Imperial Beach has been successful allowing the program to meet the goals of lowering the cost of each transport by over $1,000, providing balanced response to all sections of the City, and achieving response time goals at least 90% of the time with the program average at 95% currently. In addition, 20 Paramedics and 16 EMTs who joined the Department at the launch remain with the program today. Congratulations and thank you CVFD!

…want to get involved with your community? Applications are now being accepted for July 1 terms of office for several City Boards and Commissions including Planning Commission, Growth Management Oversight Commission, Citizens Oversight Committee Measure P, Healthy Chula Vista Advisory Commission, and Parks and Recreation Commission. Visit the webpage for details and all vacancies.

…there are many great job opportunities available at the City! Some current openings include Building Inspector, Paramedic, Park Ranger, Police Officer, Police Dispatcher, Recreation Leader and Specialist, Senior Civil Engineer, and Tiny Tot Aide and Specialist. All new hires must be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 prior to being employed by the City, subject to limited exceptions. View job details for all openings on the website and apply today!

…San Diego Community Power, a new electric provider in our region, began May 1 in Chula Vista. San Diego Community Power was formed as a Joint Powers Authority of five local jurisdictions including Chula Vista to increase the amount of local renewable energy use, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and provide more transparency into electricity procurement. The natural gas, electricity distribution and billing will all still be done by SDG&E but your electricity will be cleaner thus helping our environment! Residents are automatically enrolled but can opt out by going online or calling

(888) 382-0169 to stay with SDG&E

…a big round of applause to the 17 Chula Vista Police Department personnel who were promoted on April 8. Thanks to Measure A, this is the largest promotion ceremony at CVPD and included five women and two Captains – Dan Peak and Miriam Foxx. Congratulations to all and thank you for your service!

…this month, our Office of Sustainability and Republic Services will distribute the popular food waste caddies at two events. Chula Vista residents can stop by the Otay Ranch Farmer’s Market on Tuesday, May 10, between 4 and 7 p.m. or visit the Civic Center Branch Library, 365 F Street, on Saturday, May 21, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to get their free kitchen caddy. The bright colored caddies are labeled with what you can include in the food waste recycling program. Future distribution dates will be announced in June.

…youth ages 18 and under can now ride transit for free in San Diego County with a PRONTO account. Pick up your free PRONTO card at any Chula Vista Library - Civic Center Branch at 365 F Street, South Branch at 389 Orange Avenue or Otay Ranch Branch at the Otay Ranch mall during regular library hours or download the app. The free program allows unlimited rides on the bus, trolley, Coaster or Sprinter through June 30, 2023, giving youth easy access to school, jobs and entertainment. The pilot program is funded by SANDAG with support from the County of San Diego.

…you can help us keep Chula Vista clean! Are you having trash, recycling, or yard waste collection issues? Are your carts or bins missed frequently? Please let us know by email or call (619) 691-5122.

…don’t let May gray ruin your spring! Our weather is still perfect for a visit to Sesame Place San Diego! The new 17-acre park features rides, water attractions, shows, a parade, and the famous Sesame Street neighborhood featuring all your favorite furry friends. Located at the former Aquatica site off Main Street in Chula Vista, the park is open year-round and is a Certified Autism Center. Visit the website for more details and ticket information.

…Bird scooters have renewed their contract for a second year in the City. Two of the most popular usage areas are near Eastlake High School and Millenia. As a reminder, electric scooters are not to be driven on sidewalks but can be used in bike lanes.

...the Chula Vista Fire Department will be hosting monthly free car seat inspection events with the first one scheduled for Saturday, May 14, at the Otay Ranch Town Center, 2015 Birch Road. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., parents can bring their car seat and learn proper installation from a nationally certified technician. Chula Vista Fire Single Role Paramedic Ben Harris is offering the service in an effort to reduce injury or worse from improperly installed car seats.

…Recreation classes in May include: Kayaking for ages 6 and up on Sunday, May 15. No experience necessary for this two-hour tour departing from J Street boat launch ramp. CPR class on Friday, May 27 at Salt Creek Community Center from 6 to 8 p.m. Participants will learn the basic heart saver techniques including pediatric. Senior Exercise and Fitness is offered at Norman Park Senior Center on a variety of dates and times. Check the calendar for all available classes and sign up today!

…if you are not sure if the electric induction cooktop is for you, you can borrow a single cooktop and try it out from the Civic Center Library for one month! Help reduce your carbon footprint and improve indoor air quality by switching to the induction cooktop which creates a magnetic field and generates a current in magnetic cookware which heats the pots and pans directly. Register to borrow the cooktop. In addition, volunteers are needed the second Saturday of each month to staff the information table at the library. Contact the San Diego Green Building Council to volunteer.

…a few of the many library events this month include an “Upcycle DIY Flowers” at the Otay Ranch Branch Library on Thursday, May 17, at 4 p.m. Learn how to create flowers using coffee filters. All materials will be provided. Please email for more information. On Wednesday, May 25, at 11:15 a.m., join the “Story Stroll” as we stroll our way through a story with songs, rhymes, books and more at Orange Park adjacent to the South Branch Library at 389 Orange Avenue. Visit the library webpage for more events and activities.

…congratulations to the Sustainability Champions Award winners which honor people, businesses and organizations that have demonstrated efforts to help improve Chula Vista’s environment. This year’s winners include: Resident-Fabiola Lao; Business-Brew Bar; City Employee-Elizabeth Kovar; Student-Roxanna Braganca; Organization-619MTB; Educator-Hayley Salazar; and Community Contributor-Devon Rosales. The winners will be celebrated at the May 17 City Council meeting.

…the California Family Urgent Response System or Cal-FURS is a statewide urgent response hotline to provide support service for foster youth and resource families. The San Diego FURS team serves current and former foster youth up to the age of 21 and their caregivers. Trained professionals are available 24/7 every day of the year by calling 1-833-939-FURS (3877) for any issue big or small. Visit their website for more information or call (619) 543-0412.

Meetings and Events

May Happenings

May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. May the fourth be with you! Cinco de Mayo is May 5; National Nurses Day is May 6; and don’t forget mom on Mother’s Day May 8! National Public Works week is May 15-21; Bike to Work Day is May 19 and National Rescue Dog Day is May 20.

New Downtown Farmer’s Market

The Third Avenue Village Association announced the Third Avenue Village Market, in cooperation with farmer’s market veteran, Catt Fields White of San Diego Markets, will begin Sunday, May 8. The farmer’s market will occur every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Park Way (between Third and Fourth Avenues near Memorial Park). Shop for the freshest produce, pastured eggs, freshly baked breads, sauces, and flowers from over 60 local farmers and vendors.

City Council Meetings

City Council meetings in May will be held on May 3, 10, 17 and 24, at 5 p.m. Residents are invited to provide eComments on any agenda item. Check the website for details. A Spanish-language video stream is available and interpretation services for Spanish speakers are provided at each City Council meeting. Members of the public can watch the meeting via livestream. Chula Vista City Council meetings are video recorded and aired live on AT&T U-verse channel 99 (throughout the County), and on Cox Cable channel 24 (only in Chula Vista). Recorded meetings are also archived on the City's website.

Free Shredding Event

Did you know that every year 15 million Americans become victims of identity theft? Don’t become a statistic and shred your documents for free on Saturday, May 14. The event will be held in the parking lot of the South Chula Vista Library at 389 Orange Avenue (enter/exit from Fourth Avenue) from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. While there is no limit to the amount of documents for shredding, RSVP is required and the first 25 registrants receive a free gift.

Bike to Work Day

SANDAG Bike to Work Day is Thursday, May 19, and registration is open! Join thousands of commuters as they GO by BIKE and explore improved bikeways along their commute. This year, SANDAG invites those working remotely to participate by starting their day with a bike ride. Registration in advance is required and participants must show email confirmation in order to pick up your FREE event t-shirt at one of the many pit stop locations on May 19 from 6 to 9 a.m. Join the City of Chula Vista and Living Coast Discovery Center with our friends at the Rambler Motel for our pit stop at 225 Bay Boulevard.

Voter Education Workshop

The County of San Diego Registrar of Voters will conduct an in-person voter education workshop on Thursday, May 19, from 5 to 6 p.m. in Chula Vista Council Chambers, 276 Fourth Avenue. Learn about your voting options and important election information for the upcoming June 7, 2022 election. Find out more about Chula Vista candidates and the election on the webpage.

Memorial Day Holiday

All City offices and facilities will be closed for the Memorial Day Holiday on Monday, May 30. Public safety will continue 24/7 and trash service in the City will be delayed one day.

Snores 'n S'mores

The Montevalle Community Center’s Annual Snores 'n S’mores Family Campout is back June10-11! Bring your camping gear and sleep under the stars in Montevalle Park. Registration includes a 20 x 20 foot camping space per family. Registration is now open for the campout on June 10. Fees are $10 resident / $13 non-resident. Activities include a hot dog dinner, arts and crafts, games, snack hunt, movie in the park and a marshmallow roast.

Downtown Chula Vista Block Party – Save the Date

What could be better than a block party to kick off the summer in Chula Vista? Come out to historic Third Avenue on Friday, July 8, from 4 to 9 p.m. for a summer extravaganza! Summer is a great time to check out the fabulous eateries, breweries, sweets stores and more. The block party event will feature our very own Chula Vista Champions, low rider car show, Farmer’s Market vendors, live music, and entertainment. Watch local heroes as they walk across the main stage to receive recognition for their diverse contributions to the community as they become a Chula Vista Champion. The City is now taking nominations for Chula Vista Champions – consider anyone you know who has done great work between 2019 through present day. Just visit our website to nominate by June 22. Skate, bike, drive or walk down to the block…whatever you do - mark your calendars for this party on July 8…you don’t want to miss it!

Firefighters Foundation Pancake Breakfast – Save the Date

Save the date of Saturday, July 9, as the Chula Vista Firefighters Foundation returns with their annual pancake breakfast. This year the event will be held at Station 5 located at 341 Orange Avenue, adjacent to the South Chula Vista Library. A donation allows you to enjoy a delicious breakfast, visit with our Firefighters and help the Foundation who support the community with holiday gifts, grocery and disaster cards, the annual Easter Egg Hunt and more. Additional details will be forthcoming soon including a pre-registration option for the July 9 breakfast.