Welcome to spooky season again, Whittier! Enjoy everything from our 2nd annual Pumpkin Patch Splash and final Family Movie Night of the year, to Haunted Whittier tales at the Library and the annual Spooktacular 5K community race with your friends and family this month.

Also in October, the City will participate in the Great California Shake Out earthquake drill on October 17th which serves as an annual opportunity to evaluate emergency plans and response procedures. Mark your calendar and participate with your loved ones or colleagues by practicing your DROP, COVER, & HOLD ON at home, in the classroom, or at your place of business to ensure safety and minimize the impact of a major earthquake.

Don't forget to visit the Whittier Public Library's Calendar of Events and attend one (or more) of the many family-friendly activities, author talks, and movie screenings taking place at both branches this month. October is going to be so much fun, it's scary!

Brian Saeki, City Manager

ICYMI: View 2024 State of the City Address

The City's State of the City Address is now available to view online for business owners or residents who missed the event, which was held on September 26th at the Doubletree Hotel Whittier and hosted by the Whittier Area Chamber of Commerce. The annual event is an excellent opportunity for community members to hear updates regarding development, current and future projects, and the City's economic development initiatives. Hear from Mayor Joe Vinatieri and City Manager Brian Saeki, who highlighted department accomplishments, discussed the current and forecasted business climate, and shared insights on what to expect in the year ahead. From infrastructure improvements to local resources and programming, discover how Whittier is working to enhance quality of life for residents. Watch the recording here or visit the City's Youtube channel for additional video content and post-event recaps.

Whittier Awarded U.S. Department of Energy Grant Funding for Sustainability

The Whittier Public Works Department was recently awarded formula funding from the $550 million Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block grant (EECBG) Program designed to fund a wide range of energy efficiency and decarbonization projects and programs across the country that reduce climate pollution and advance local energy goals. 

As part of the grant program, the City has committed to developing a Municipal Operations Energy Plan and conducting energy-efficiency upgrades in municipal buildings. The Energy Plan will establish a comprehensive energy inventory and formally set citywide goals for carbon-free energy use and emissions reductions. Whittier staff will also install a ground source heat pump in a City-owned building and three ventilated transformers in Whittier City Hall. 



The EECBG Program helps advance the Justice40 Initiative, which set the goal that 40 percent of the overall benefits of certain Federal climate, clean energy, and other covered investments flow to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution. Funding awarded will allow Whittier to further support its green initiatives, which have included solar implementation, organics recycling, LED fixtures, and energy-efficient water pumps among others, and make a positive impact on climate change in our community. Learn more about the program here and follow @whittiercitygov on social media for project updates.

Register: Don't Miss Spooktacular 5K on October 26

Dive In: Pumpkin Patch Splash October 5

Free Compost Pick-Up for Whittier Residents

City of Whittier residents (with proper identification or utility bill) can pick up free compost provided by Athens Services on Saturday, October 5th at the Uptown Senior Center (13225 Walnut St.) from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Participants are reminded to bring a shovel, dolly, and sturdy containers (no larger than 32-gallon) for the self-service event and masks, gloves, and protective eyewear are also encouraged. This is a first-come, first-served drive-thru event while supplies last.

Athens' compost is a blend of organics material including green waste, wood waste, and food scraps. Compost is OMRI Listed and licensed by the California Department of Food and Agriculture. To learn more, please contact Athens Services at (888) 336-6100.

Author Talk: Get to Know Two Acclaimed Illustrators on October 5

Don’t miss two special author talks happening at the Whittier Public Library this month! Join us at the Central Library on Saturday, October 5th at 1:00 a.m. for a presentation with Joe Cepeda, an East LA native and award-winning illustrator of more than 30+ children’s books. With a wide array of fun kids' stories, including the popular "Sumo Libre" about two neighbors who love wrestling, Joe’s work is sure to inspire all ages.

Also at the Central Library on Saturday, October 5th, hear from artist and author Rafael Navarro who will share more about his Sonámbulo series and illustrate live for participants to enjoy. There will be giveaways for all attendees, and a lucky few might even walk away with free art! The conversation starts at 12:30 p.m. and all ages are welcome. For more information, call (562) 567-9900.

Looking for a spine-tingling night out? Visit the Central Library (7344 Washington Ave.) on Monday, October 7th, at 6:00 p.m. for Haunted Whittier, featuring special guest Jacob Caputo of Haunted Whittier Tours. The event will explore local folklore and ghost stories, bringing to life Whittier's eerie past. Jacob, a historian, storyteller, and ghost hunter, will share chilling tales that highlight how these stories help keep local history alive. As the leader of the "Haunted Whittier: Ghosts, Myths, and Legends" tour and a Whittier Museum guide, Jacob promises a captivating experience for both history buffs and thrill-seekers. This event is free; call (562) 567-9900 for details.

The Local Agency Formation Commission for the County of Los Angeles (LAFCO) will hold a hearing on Wednesday, October 9, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. regarding the proposed annexation of territory to the City of Whittier. The hearing will be held in the Board of Supervisors Hearing Room (381B) of the Kenneth Hahn Hall of Administration (500 West Temple St., Los Angeles, CA 90012). If approved by the Commission on October 9th, LAFCO will hold a protest hearing on Wednesday, November 13, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. in the same location.

The annexation process would occur in stages and include timely public noticing and opportunities for members of the public to provide critical feedback. The current proposal includes approximately 89 acres within a residential area into the boundary of the City of Whittier. The affected territory is generally located along Whittier Blvd, between Interstate 605 and Sorensen Ave., in Los Angeles County unincorporated territory adjacent to the City of Whittier. Reasons for the proposed annexation include local control and autonomy of portions of Whittier Blvd. independent of Caltrans; opportunities for branding, lighting, and landscaping; uniformity of retail use along Whittier Blvd.; and implementation of City design standards, expedited permitting, and improvements among others. Click here to view the hearing notice or contact the Whittier Public Works department at (562) 567-9500 with inquiries regarding potential annexation.

Celebrate a decade of words and flavors at the Whittier Public Library Foundation's 10th Annual Booktoberfest! On October 10th, indulge in an evening filled with delicious food and drinks from local restaurants and breweries while supporting the Whittier Public Library. Enjoy live music, games, and a chance to win big with gift card tree drawings and a silent auction. Tickets are available for $95 for WPLF members and $105 for non-members, but hurry—quantities are limited and will sell out fast. Please note, attendees must be 21 years or older. Don’t miss this fantastic night of fun and community spirit! Purchase your tickets at Booktoberfest.org.

Enjoy Stories and Skeletons at the Library on October 12

Prepare for a thrilling experience with Stories & Skeletons/Cuentos y Calacas, a bilingual storytime featuring authors Heidi & Priscilla Moreno as they read their books "Luna Oscura" and "Let’s Celebrate Día de Muertos" on Saturday, October 12th, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Central Library (7344 Washington Ave). Get ready for spooky-fun tales, friendly skeletons, crafts, and more—perfect for the whole family. Books will be available for purchase; get your copy signed and meet the authors! Registration is required; call the Central Library at (562) 567-9900 to sign up.

The Whittier Parks, Recreation & Community Services staff will officially wrap up its summer "Movies in the Park" series with a special Halloween screening of "Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire" on Saturday, October 12th at Founders Park (6031 Citrus Ave.). Kids can enjoy free crafting, games, and play activities until the movies starts, and $1 concessions will be available for purchase. Don't miss a great night out with the family and remember your lawn chairs, blankets, and a picnic dinner from your favorite local restaurant. The event kicks off at 6:00 p.m. and the movie begins at dusk. For more information call (562) 567-9450.

Wednesday Night Book Group & Author Visit

Join the Whittier Public Library's Wednesday Night Book Group on October 16th for an engaging discussion of "The Sons of El Rey," an epic tale filled with luchadores, love, and secrets at the Central Library (7344 Washington Ave.) at 6:00 p.m. Lovers of the book are invited to head back to the Library on Tuesday, October 22nd at 6:00 p.m. for a follow-up conversation with the author, Alex Espinoza. Please note, these events are intended for an adult audience. For more information, call (562) 567-9900. We can’t wait to see you there!

Shake Out: Participate in Statewide Earthquake Drill on October 17

Public Hearing: Water & Sewer Rate Study

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. All property owners of record and water and sewer utility customers in Whittier will soon receive a notice in the mail that provides additional details and we encourage residents to remain informed and engaged throughout the process.

While many water and sewer utilities across California are experiencing double-digit rate increases to keep up with costs, the City of Whittier is taking steps to reduce the financial impacts to customers from record-setting inflation experienced over the past five years. The study proposes moderate annual rate adjustments that, if adopted by the City Council, would begin on January 1, 2025, and extend through 2029.

Get Involved:

A public hearing will be held on Tuesday, November 12th at 6:00 p.m. at Whittier City Hall for residents to share their feedback with the City Council and staff.

Your voice matters! Share your thoughts and learn more about how the proposed rates may impact you. To view FAQs and the draft study, confirm your service area, and find additional information, please visit our online resource page at cityofwhittier.org/rates or contact Public Works at (562) 567-9530.

The Whittier Public Library invites you to its popular monthly "Reel Club" series dedicated to viewing and discussing unique documentaries with fellow movie enthusiasts.

Don't miss a screening of "King on Screen" on Monday, October 21st, at 6:00 p.m. at the Central Library (7344 Washington Ave.).

Dive into the eerie world of Stephen King adaptations just in time for scare season and stick around for a thrilling Q&A with the filmmaker. To learn more about the movie, call (562) 567-9900.

The Whittier Senior Services Division invites local seniors to attend a Medicare Open Enrollment Fair on Wednesday, October 23rd from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Uptown Senior Center (13225 Walnut St.).

Residents age 55+ and caregivers will have the opportunity to connect with a variety of local healthcare and service providers and obtain free health screenings. Additional resources will also be available, including information on senior activities, Dial-A-Ride, and more. Please call (562) 567-9450 for details or speak to a staff member at the Senior Center to learn more.

Cruise on down to the Central Library (7344 Washington Ave.) on Saturday, October 26th, for an exciting afternoon celebrating the rich history and culture of lowriding!

Bring your friends and family for a day filled with cars, community, and culture as we showcase both full-sized and miniature lowriders. The event will feature a screening of "The Great American Lowrider Tradition," a critically acclaimed documentary by local director Martin Torrez. After the screening, head outside to the Library parking lot for a car show, music, 3D prints and more. For more information, call (562) 567-9900.

Game Night: Play at the Whittwood Branch Library October 29

Join us for a special Halloween edition of game night at the Whittwood Branch Library (10537 Santa Gertrudes Ave.) on Tuesday, October 29th, at 6:00 p.m. Teens and adults are invited to embrace the thrills and chills as we dive into a world of mystery and mayhem with board games like One Night Ultimate Werewolf and Ghost Blitz. Whether you’re hunting werewolves under the full moon or racing to spot spooky specters, these games are sure to keep you on the edge of your seat! Come for the games and stay for the ghoulishly good company. For more info, call (562) 567-9950.

2024 Election: City Hosts Vote-by-Mail Drive-Thru Event November 5

Whittier, get ready to unleash your inner artist at Chalktastic! This exciting event will take place on Saturday, November 16th, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Whittier City Hall (13230 Penn St.). Registration is free, so harness your inspiration and creativity, and prepare to turn a 4x4 foot concrete square into your personal canvas. Artists of all ages are welcome to participate, including kids and adults, and showcase their unique talents. Prizes will be awarded in each age group, along with an overall People's Choice award. In addition to the competition, enjoy chalk art demonstrations by professional artists, fun games, food vendors, and music. Don’t miss the opportunity to transform Whittier City Hall's sidewalks into a vibrant tapestry of colors and illustrations! Registration for Chalktastic includes a chalk kit and kneeling pad; sign up today at WhittierRec.com or call (562) 567-9430 with questions. See you out on the pavement!