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November is a time of gratitude in Whittier and we have plenty to be thankful for this year.
To show our collective thanks, join the City in honoring local servicemembers for their courage and sacrifice at our annual Veterans Day ceremony at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, November 11th in front of City Hall, followed by the exclusive screening of Welcome Home: The Jose Ramos Story at the Whittier Community Theatre.
Also included in this month's newsletter are details on activities for all ages like Kids' Sports Night Out, the always popular Senior Harvest Feast, the annual Chalktastic art contest, and more.
Lastly, scroll down for details on all your favorite holiday events in Whittier including the Whittwood Town Center's Jolly Holidays, the City's Tree-Lighting, the Holiday Sonata, Santa's Village in Uptown, and the Whittier Christmas Parade. Remember to shop local on Small Business Saturday November 30th!
On behalf of the Whittier City Council and City staff, we appreciate the opportunity to serve you each day and wish you a safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving!
Brian Saeki, City Manager
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Council Corner: Update on Water Rates & Annexation of Whittier Blvd. | |
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The City of Whittier is conducting a Water and Sewer Rate Study to assess current rates and ensure fair, sustainable pricing for our community. Investing in water and sewer infrastructure is an essential communitywide obligation, which allows the City to address aging pipelines, drinking water wells, distribution systems, and sewer collection systems, among other critical services.
Proposition 218 requires the City to adopt rate structures that reflect the City’s actual costs of serving each customer class. The study proposes moderate annual rate adjustments that, if adopted by the City Council, would begin on January 1, 2025.
A public hearing will be held on Tuesday, November 12th at 6:00 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers (13230 Penn St.) to allow for additional community feedback. Share your thoughts and learn more about how the proposed rates may impact you. To view FAQs, the draft study, confirm your service area, and find additional information, please visit www.cityofwhittier.org/rates or contact Public Works at (562) 567-9530.
Additionally, the City and the County of Los Angeles are in the final stages of annexation of 90-acres of unincorporated Los Angeles County territory that includes portions of Whittier Boulevard and some of the territory commonly known as West Whittier. The annexation would allow Whittier to take local control over portions of Whittier Blvd., enabling improvements like branding, lighting, and landscaping, as well as code enforcement, streamlined permitting, and greater oversight of uniform design standards.
The Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) will hold a public protest hearing on Wednesday, November 13th at 9:00 a.m. at the LA County Board of Supervisors Hearing Room (381B), located in the Kenneth Hahn Hall of Administration (500 West Temple St., Los Angeles, 90012) and the public is encouraged to share feedback regarding the process. To view more information and a list of FAQs regarding annexation, please click here or contact the Public Works Department at (562) 567-9350.
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TGIF: Kids' Sports Night Out November 8th | |
Attention adults with children: there 's still time to register your little ones for "Kid's Sports Night Out" happening tonight, November 8th, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the Whittier Community Center (7630 Washington Ave.). Parents get a night off while kids get to enjoy a variety of sports, dinner, a movie, and other fun activities for youth ages 5 to 10. Online registration is still open for $10 per child at www.whittierrec.com. If you have any questions about Sports Night, call (562) 567-9430 or register at the door. | |
Whittier Honors Servicemembers at Veterans Day Ceremony November 11th | |
The City of Whittier invites you to join us for a tribute to our veterans on Monday, November 11th, with a special two-part event honoring those who served. The day begins with a Veterans Day Ceremony at City Hall (13230 Penn St.) from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., to gather and acknowledge the sacrifice and service of many. Following the ceremony, head to the Whittier Community Center Theatre (7360 Washington Ave.) at 11:30 a.m. for an exclusive screening of the not-yet-released documentary, "Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans: The Jose Ramos Story." This City-produced film pays tribute to Whittier resident and Vietnam veteran, Jose Ramos, with exclusive accounts from fellow servicemembers about the significance of Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day and support for soldiers returning home. Both events are free and open to the public, with veterans’ resources and light refreshments available. We hope to see you there as we honor our community’s heroes! For questions about these events, please call (562) 567-9470. | |
Police Department Offers Sticker Program for Community Members with Special Needs | |
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The Whittier Police Department is now offering free window stickers to alert officers that a loved one in your home may have specific communication needs. Place the sticker near your front door so first responders can approach with extra care and understanding in the event of an emergency.
Each sticker includes a QR code linking to an optional information form. By filling it out, you can share details that will be entered into the WPD dispatch system to assist officers before they arrive to your home.
This is a voluntary program open to residents of Whittier and Santa Fe Springs. You can choose to fill out the form without displaying the sticker or display the sticker without filling out the form—it’s up to you! Visit the Whittier Police Department (13200 East Penn St.) service counter to pick up a sticker and help us better serve Whittier families!
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Help Shape the Future of Whittier Housing | |
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The City of Whittier invites residents and community members to help set priorities for our community’s future. Your feedback will guide how we use important funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) through Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) and HOME funds to address local housing needs.
At this meeting, staff will discuss the City's 5-Year Consolidated Plan, Annual Action Plan, and Fair Housing Assessment. With your input, we can better focus on providing quality housing, creating a thriving community environment, and expanding economic opportunities for Whittier’s low- and moderate-income residents.
Date & Time: December 4th, 2024, at 6:00 p.m.
Location: Whittier City Hall,13230 Penn Street
Learn more by taking our brief survey and share your insights before the meeting. Please call Community Development with inquiries at (562) 567-9320.
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Library Hosts Teen Book Club November 12th | |
Join The Whittier Public Library for its monthly Teen Book Club at the Central Library (7344 Washington Ave.) on Tuesday, November 12th, at 5:30 p.m. This club has no assigned readings or registrations—just bring your latest reads, share your favorites, and enjoy book-themed crafts. Plus, there will be boba to enjoy while you chat and get creative! This is a great chance to meet fellow readers and find your next great book. For more information, call (562) 567-9900. | |
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Book Talk: Discuss "I Promise You I'll Be Home" on November 13th | |
Join us for an enlightening lecture with Sara S. “Sue” Hodson, editor of "I Promise You I’ll Be Home", on Wednesday, November 13th at 6:00 p.m. at the Central Library, (7344 Washington Ave.). As the retired curator of literary manuscripts for The Huntington Library, Sue brings a wealth of insight into the life and legacy of legendary journalist Al Martinez. Known for curating the highly praised exhibition "Al Martinez: Bard of L.A.", Sue will guide attendees through the work of this L.A. icon. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to learn about Martinez’s impact on journalism and Los Angeles culture through the eyes of an expert. Please contact the Whittier Central Library with any questions about this event (562) 567-9900. | |
Speaker Series: Hear from Melissa Villasenor at the Central Library on November 14th | | |
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Join us for an engaging evening with Melissa Villasenor, local author of "Whoops... I’m Awesome!" on Thursday, November 14th, at 7:00 p.m. at the Whittier Central Library (7344 Washington Ave.). This event is part of the Eileen Bigelow Speaker Series and is sponsored by the Whittier Public Library Foundation. Free tickets are available at both the Whittier Central Library and the Whittwood Branch Library. For more information, please call (562) 567-9900. | |
Chalk-Stars Unite: All-Ages Art Contest Returns to City Hall on November 16th | |
The Parks, Recreation & Community Services department and the Whittier Cultural Arts Commission present Chalktastic, an all-ages art contest at Whittier City Hall taking place Saturday, November 16th from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. View professional chalk art demonstrations, create your own masterpiece, and enjoy crafts, games, music, prizes, and the Whittier Public Library pop-up. Free registration is available at www.WhittierRec.com and includes a 16-color chalk kit and kneeling pad. For more information please call (562) 567-9450. | |
Athens Services Hosts Household Hazardous Waste & E-Waste Collection November 16th | |
Athens Services is partnering with the City of Whittier to host a Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) and Electronic Waste (e-waste) collection event on Saturday, November 16th, from 8:00 to 11:00 a.m. This is a valuable opportunity for residents to safely dispose of items labeled toxic, combustible, corrosive, flammable, or irritant—including household cleaners, paints, pesticides, and automotive products—which cannot legally be thrown in regular waste containers, drains, or abandoned. The event will take place in the Whittier Public Parking Lot located at 12813 Bailey Street (please enter from Milton Ave). Proof of City of Whittier residency and appointments are required; register now to secure your spot and help keep our community clean and safe. | |
Whittwood Town Center Celebrates Holidays with Tree Lighting November 16th | |
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The Whittwood Town Center will bring the holiday spirit to Whittier on Saturday, November 16th with its annual Jolly Holidays Tree Lighting event from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Center Courtyard (near Old Navy and Kohl's).
Celebrate the season with a special message and countdown from Whittier Mayor Joe Vinatieri, as well as musical performances by local school bands, holiday characters, face painting and portraits, yummy treats, and Mr. & Mrs. Claus. Can't make it? The Whittwood Town Center will host a "Santa Saturday" on December 14th from 12:00 to 3:00 p.m. featuring selfies with Santa, balloon entertainers, holiday characters, and other winter activities for local families to enjoy. Celebrate the season and remember to shop local!
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Teen Advisory Board Meets November 20th | |
Teens are invited to plan programs, develop new services, and advise on Whittier Public Library materials by joining the Teen Advisory Board! Attend the next meeting on Wednesday, November 20th, at 5:30 p.m. at the Central Library (7344 Washington Ave.). Please submit a TAB application prior to the meeting, which can be found online or in person at both Library locations. This opportunity is open to all high school students to earn volunteer hours while making a difference in your community. For more information, call the Central Library at (562) 567-9900 or the Whittwood Branch at (562) 567-9950. We hope to see you there! | |
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Discuss "Remarkably Bright Creatures" at Wednesday Night Book Group November 20th | |
The Wednesday Night Book Group invites you to join an engaging discussion of "Remarkably Bright Creatures" by author Shelby Van Pelt on November 20th at 6:00 p.m. in the Central Library’s Maker Space (7344 Washington Ave.). This event is open to adults looking to connect over great reads and insightful conversations. Whether you're a regular or a first-time participant, come share your thoughts and enjoy a lively literary evening. For any questions, please call (562) 567-9900. | |
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Parnell Park Hosts Harvest Feast for Seniors on November 21st | |
Whittier's Senior Services Division will host its annual Harvest Feast at the Parnell Park Community Center (15390 Lambert Rd.) on Thursday, November 21st from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Attendees will enjoy music, raffles, a photo booth, and fellowship. Register at Parnell Park for $10 per person or call (562) 567-9470 for more information. | |
Reminder: Thanksgiving Hours & Trash Service | |
As a reminder, Whittier City Hall, the Whittier Public Library, and all City facilities will be closed on Thursday, November 28th, and Friday, November 29th, in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday and will resume normal business hours on Monday, December 2nd. Please remember that trash service and collection will be delayed by one day for the remainder of the week, meaning service normally provided on Thursday will take place on Friday, and the final collection day will be Saturday. Additionally, street sweeping will not be performed on November 28th or November 29th. Please contact your trash hauler directly with inquiries at (888) 336-6100 (Athens Services) or (800) 299-4898 (Republic Services). We wish you and yours a safe and relaxing holiday with your loved ones! | |
#SHOPWHITTIER: Celebrate Small Business Saturday in Whittier on November 30th | |
Join the City of Whittier on Saturday, November 30th, for Small Business Saturday, a day to celebrate and support small businesses and all they do for our community. In partnership with the Whittier Chamber of Commerce, Whittier Uptown Association, and Uptown Whittier Improvement Association, we encourage you to shop small ahead of the holidays and make a big difference. Learn more at www.SBA.gov and use the hashtag #shopwhittier on social media. We appreciate your support of Whittier's one-of-a-kind, unique small businesses! | |
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Save the Dates: 'Tis the Season in Whittier | |
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Get ready for the holiday season in Whittier! Mark your calendars for these festive events and join us in celebrating the magic of the holidays with your family, friends, and neighbors. In collaboration with the Whittier Uptown Association and Uptown Whittier Improvement Association, residents are invited to grab a photo with Santa, get your gifts wrapped, enjoying holiday carolers, and sit front row at the annual Uptown Christmas Parade. Follow @whittiercitygov on social media for more details on these festive gatherings or call (562) 567-9400 with questions.
Save the Dates:
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City of Whittier Tree Lighting @ City Hall – Monday, December 2nd
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Rick's Grand Illumination @ Rick's Drive In & Out - Friday, December 6th
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Cookies with Santa – Saturday, December 7th
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Uptown Holiday Sonata - Saturday, December 7th
- Santa’s Village in Uptown Whittier
• Friday & Saturday, November 29-30
• Saturday, December 15
• Friday & Saturday, December 20-21
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Uptown Christmas Parade - Saturday, December 14th
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Register: Lifeguard Certification Classes | |
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Ready to dive into a job where every splash counts? Becoming a certified lifeguard opens doors to exciting opportunities, from working at public pools to water parks, hotels, resorts, and even City and County jobs (psst… the City of Whittier is hiring lifeguards)!
Perfect for students, lifeguarding offers flexible schedules and room for growth. Obtain your certification this winter and get ahead for the summer season! Visit WhittierRec.com or call (562) 567-9495 for more information.
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Schedule Bulky Item Pick-Ups 4x Per Year | |
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Did you know that Whittier residents are entitled to up to four free bulky item trash pick-ups per year, and up to three items per pick-up? That totals 12 large items each year! Bulky item pick-up is provided to all residents in the City of Whittier, in partnership with Athens Services and Republic Services, and includes single-family households and apartments. Contact your trash hauler to schedule the pick-up for your regular collection day.
Common bulky items include mattresses, couches, refrigerators, and even some electronic waste like televisions and microwaves. Some items not included in this free service are car parts, construction debris, tires, or anything else too large and/or heavy to be handled by two workers.
Athens and Republic Services also provide bulky item pick-up to business customers for a nominal fee. As a reminder, please do not place large items outside of your home until your collection day. Let’s all do our part to keep Whittier prettier in 2025 – schedule your next pick-up by calling Athens Services at (888) 336-6100 or Republic Services at (800) 299-4898.
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