Message from the City Manager

January 2025

A new year is here, and I look forward to all the opportunities this year holds for our community. A new year is the perfect chance to reflect on the past and think about our future. At the City of Murrieta, we always seek to improve our organization and services for you. If you have ideas about how we can create a better experience for our constituents, please let us know. You can email us directly by replying to this email.

Whatever your goals are for 2025, I hope they include time to enjoy all that Murrieta has to offer, from community events and services to parks and trails. Here’s to a healthy, happy, and connected year to come!

Justin Clifton

Murrieta Acting City Manager

Happy New Year!

Murrieta consistently ranks as one of the safest cities, thanks to the outstanding efforts of our police and fire departments, as well as the dedication of our incredible citizens. Our school district continues to excel, earning recognition as one of the top academically performing districts in the state while also fostering some of the most successful sports programs. Thank you to everyone for your contributions in making Murrieta one of the best places to live, work, and play.

Murrieta Magazine

Shipped to your door!

Murrieta Slurry Seal

See if your roads are being sealed.

Christmas Tree Collections

Still have your Christmas Tree?

The City of Murrieta is pleased to announce the selection of Captain Matt Henry as the Murrieta Police Department’s next Chief of Police. His appointment to the position follows Chief Anthony Conrad’s retirement.

Chief Henry is the Department’s fourth internal promotion to Chief of Police. He comes with 24 years of law enforcement experience. He started his career with the San Diego Police Department in March of 2000 and transferred to the Murrieta Police Department in November of 2005. Chief Henry has served the community in several special assignment roles, including Patrol, SWAT, Internal Affairs, and Administration. Most recently, Chief Henry spent the last four years as a Police Captain, managing both the Operations and Support sides of the department.

Coffee with the City

Connecting over coffee with the City of Murrieta team

Local Traffic Alert

Scheduled construction

Murrieta Public Library

What is going on in the library?

The City of Murrieta is consistently ranked one of the best places to work in the region and has a strong organizational culture and dedicated workforce.

Have you considered looking for the next step in your career by serving your community? Check out the City's website and learn more about current openings. Make sure to check back often, as new positions are listed frequently. The following positions are currently posted on the City's website:

• Recreation Leader (Part-Time)

Visit Murrieta's jobs website today!

Murrieta Market Nights

Visit the heart of Murrieta during our evening street markets

The first market night of 2025 on January 2, has been cancelled. The next market night will be on January 16.

Stroll through downtown as Washington Avenue and Juniper Street come alive with local vendors, talented artisans, live entertainment, and delicious food options.

Whether you're shopping for unique finds or simply soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, Market Nights are the perfect way to connect with the community and support local businesses. Don’t miss this immersive experience that draws hundreds of visitors to historic downtown Murrieta!



Dates: January 16, 2025

Time: 5 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Location: Downtown Murrieta

Murrieta residents should be aware of a potential change to the State Fire Hazard Severity Zone (FHSZ) map, which will be released in mid-January.

What does this mean for you?

• Map Zones: Fire severity zones may increase to include additional parcels and properties.
• Defensible Space: Updated defensible space enforcement standards will be applied to homes in the Very High Fire Severity Zone.
• Building Codes: Updated fire-resistant building codes will be applied in the High and Very High Fire Severity Zones.
• Emergency Preparedness: Preparing for wildfires is crucial, especially in high-risk zones. Create a defensible space around your home, have an evacuation plan, and stay informed about local fire conditions.
• Know Your Zone: Download the Genasys Protect app and Watch Duty to stay informed when a wildfire threatens our community.

Murrieta Fire & Rescue remains committed to ensuring our citizens have all possible information about these map updates. The maps will be delivered by the State soon, and the public will have an opportunity to comment on them.

Stay tuned for the official release of the new FHSZ map in mid-January. The current map that is expiring soon can be viewed and searched here: https://bit.ly/4iy7BSS

January Public Meetings

• City Council Meetings | January 7 (Cancelled) and January 21
• Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting | January 2 (Cancelled)

Meeting times and dates are subject to change. Please visit the City's agenda webpage for meeting details and full agendas.

City of Murrieta Legislative Updates

Advocating for the interests of residents and businesses

Throughout each year, the California State Legislature and the United States Congress propose and enact legislation, some of which affect local municipal government. The City of Murrieta recognizes the need for active legislative engagement at the local, state, and federal levels to enhance the interests of Murrieta’s residents and businesses.

At times, it is in the City's best interest to take a position on proposed legislation. To view this year's approved Legislative Platform and all submitted letters of opposition and support, visit the City's website. This page is updated throughout the year as the City takes positions on various pieces of legislation.