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Latest News from the City of Yorba Linda

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A Message from the City Manager

Dear Community Member,

Happy October, and happy fall! This season always brings out our most festive spirit as we prepare for Halloween and the upcoming holiday season. As we excitedly gear up for changing weather, pumpkin-spice everything, and our favorite flannels, the City has many exciting developments underway. The City recently broke ground on our Adventure Playground Renovation Project, we've launched a new mobile app for residents to request repairs and report issues around the City, and we are busy preparing for the 2021 State of the City. While these exciting topics are fully covered in the articles below, I would like to highlight the great pride we take in our mission to offer exceptional services and amenities to the Yorba Linda community. If you would like to learn more about the City's accomplishments over the past year, I invite you to watch the live stream of our annual State of the City Address on our Facebook page (more details in an article below).

Our dedication to exceptionalism is a reflection of this community's great character. In just the last month alone, Yorba Linda has proven to be a place of compassion, service, and patriotism. From tributes to fallen service members to the event recognizing the 20th-anniversary of September 11th at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library, Yorba Linda's character is best defined by the incredible ways we show up for each other and engage with our neighbors. The Land of Gracious Living, indeed, and we can't wait to celebrate this remarkable community at the 2021 State of the City.

Best Regards,

Mark Pulone

City Manager

City Council Meeting Recap

The City Council Meeting Recap for the October 5, 2021 City Council Meeting is now available online. These recaps are intended to summarize the City Council's actions and are not intended to function as a replacement for official meeting minutes. City Council Meeting agendas and minutes, and recaps from previous meetings, are always available on the Agendas and Minutes page of the City website.

City Breaks Ground on Adventure Playground Renovation

The City hosted a groundbreaking ceremony earlier this week on Tuesday, October 5, at Adventure Playground to celebrate the extensive renovation project now under construction. As the home of the City’s most popular recreation program since 1983, the City is investing over $7 million to give it a new life for the next generation and expand its use to even more residents throughout the year.

The renovation will elevate the unique spirit of freedom and creative play that makes Adventure Playground special while preserving the park’s “get your hands dirty” character. The project includes several exciting amenities: an updated multi-use/whiffle ball field, zip line, fort building area, and brand new additions like a large natural-looking splash-pad, a double water slide, a large playground with elevated catwalks, and more.

Once reopened, Adventure Playground will become a year-round destination where kids can enjoy most of the park’s amenities whenever they please. The City will also continue to host summer camps on site where kids can experience the same kinds of fun that many of their parents remember. The project is scheduled to be complete in Summer 2022.

Introducing MyCivic 311, the New Way to Report Issues Around the City

The City of Yorba Linda has launched the new MyCivic 311 Service Request Mobile App which allows residents to request repairs around the City. With just a few taps of a phone, users can report issues to the City including potholes, streetlights, graffiti, missing street signs, and much more! The City is excited to launch this new app after listening to feedback from the community and receiving many requests for a solution optimized for mobile devices so that residents can report issues on the go.

This new system provides several advantages for both citizens and the City:

You can now submit a service request on a mobile app. You can download the app on iOS and Android smartphone devices;
Greater insight and control over requests for the City, meaning issues can be routed and resolved more quickly; and
Integration with the City's enterprise resource planning system, allowing staff to better track resources and improve the City's overall efficiency in managing these service requests.

Requests can also be submitted through the MyCivic 311 web portal. As always, residents may also report issues and request repairs by calling our Public Works Department at 714-386-3140.

Yorba Linda Police Services Receives Body-Worn Cameras

Earlier this week, the Orange County Sheriff’s Department deployed its first body-worn cameras for patrol deputies, initiating a multi-phase program to equip all patrol personnel with cameras by the end of 2022. Yorba Linda Police Services is the first OC Sheriff contract city to receive body-worn cameras. Upon full implementation of the program, more than 1,000 deputies in the Sheriff’s Department’s 13 contract cities and county unincorporated areas will be wearing cameras in the field.

While the Sheriff’s Department has used in-car camera systems for more than three decades, the Department looks forward to the added transparency and accountability that comes with body-worn cameras, giving the public greater access to their day-to-day operations, and providing an important perspective into the complex work of OCSD deputies.

It's Fire Prevention Week!

The City of Yorba Linda and the Orange County Fire Authority are celebrating October 3-9 as this year's Fire Prevention Week focused on "Learning the Sounds of Fire Safety."

From beeps to chirps, this year's campaign works to better educate the public about the sounds smoke alarms make, what those sounds mean, and how to respond to them. Gaining a better understanding of why smoke alarms may sound and knowing how to address them effectively ensures that smoke alarms remain in working order. The campaign also addresses special considerations for the deaf and hard of hearing, along with information about carbon monoxide alarms.

Through a series of videos and activities, the importance of fire safety will be stressed to help reduce, if not eliminate, injuries from home fires. OCFA will be highlighting the different "Sounds of Fire Safety" on their social media pages all week, so be sure to follow along! The OCFA Kids' Corner will also be filled with new activities that correspond to the safety points of Fire Prevention Week.

For more information and to review activities, visit ocfa.org/FirePreventionWeek.

Pavement Work on Yorba Linda Boulevard Underway

This year’s Annual Pavement Preservation Project continues in Zone 4 (view map). This year’s annual program kicked off in August with curb ramp replacements in advance of asphalt repairs and re-paving efforts.

As part of this year’s project, the contractor will be overlaying Yorba Linda Boulevard from Ohio Street to Fairmont Boulevard, with work on Yorba Linda Boulevard scheduled from October 4-7 and will take place during off-peak hours. A minimum of one lane will remain open in each direction at all times, and access to side streets will be maintained. In addition, electronic messaging boards have been placed along the route, and properties directly impacted by the overlay work will be notified via door hangers specific to the area of work. During construction, drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians are advised to be prepared for delays or take alternate routes, watch for traffic or lane changes, proceed slowly, and to be alert to workers and equipment in the roadway. The remaining work within Zone 4 is anticipated to be completed in late October.

Library Now Offers Hold Pickup Lockers

The Yorba Linda Public Library is now offering self-service Hold Pickup Lockers, located outside on the east end of the Library by the book returns. Accessible 24/7, this pickup option allows you to collect holds at your convenience. To utilize this easy-to-use option, place a hold online through the Library's website, select the green "Place hold" button, and a drop-down menu will appear. Using the "Pickup at" option, select "Hold Pickup Lockers--Library." Once your items are ready to be picked up, you will receive an email notification. To learn more about the lockers, visit www.ylpl.org/lockers.

Last Call for Movies in the Park!

Get ready for our last Movies in the Park showing of the year on October 16! Be sure to bring your chairs, blankets, and a picnic dinner while enjoying Cars 3 on our 20-foot inflatable movie screen! The movie is hosted at Hurless Barton Park and starts at dusk. For more information, call the Parks and Recreation Department at 714-961-7192 or view the advertisement in The Guide. Registration is not required for this FREE family event.

Additionally, it's not too late to sign up for great fall recreation programs, like the Art Hallow's Eve at the Cultural Arts Center, Trail & Treats, the Senior Wellness Expo, Breakfast with Santa, and many more! For more information or to register, visit ylreconline.com.

Set Your Calendar for Yorba Linda's 2021 State of the City Address on October 20!

The City of Yorba Linda and the Yorba Linda Chamber of Commerce are excited to host the 2021 State of the City Address on Wednesday, October 20, 2021, at 5:30 p.m. The event features the Honorable Mayor Peggy Huang’s informative State of the City Address and an exclusive “Year in Review” video, all hosted in the magnificent East Room of the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum.

While tickets for the event are sold out, the event will be live-streamed from the City of Yorba Linda's Facebook page so anyone from the community can join in the celebration. For more information, please visit yorbalindaca.gov/stateofthecity or contact the Yorba Linda Chamber of Commerce at 714-993-9537.

City Sells 13 Acres of West Bastanchury Property

Shea Homes is now the proud owner of the lower 13-acre West Bastanchury site, having purchased it from the City for $10.5 million at the end of August. The developer wasted no time mobilizing equipment onsite to begin the 23 home "Saffron" development along Bastanchury Road between Casa Loma Avenue and Eureka Avenue, setting up construction fencing around the perimeter and establishing necessary dust control measures. The Saffron development is scheduled to open next summer.

Compost Giveaway Event for Yorba Linda Residents

The City of Yorba Linda and Republic Services will give residents FREE compost as a "thank you" for participating in the green waste recycling program. On Saturday, October 30, the giveaway will take place from 8 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at Tri-City Park (2301 N Kraemer Boulevard, Placentia, 92870). Compost is limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis with a 60-gallon limit. Please bring your own containers, such as a trash can or plastic tote, but bags will not be allowed. Proof of Yorba Linda residency will be required.

Tips for a Safe Halloween

Halloween is just around the corner, and the City of Yorba Linda and Yorba Linda Police Services want you and your family to be safe during this festive holiday. Please review these important considerations and tips to ensure a safe and fun Halloween for the entire family:

Trick-or-treat in groups, never alone;
Parents, plan your route before you leave and show the kids where you'll be going;
Take a flashlight with you;
Place reflective tape or stickers on costumes;
Cross the street at corners using traffic signals and crosswalks;
Never dart out into the street or cross between parked cars;
Only trick-or-treat at well-lit houses;
Only enter a house if with a trusted adult;
Never get in a stranger's car;
Examine candy before it's eaten;
Make sure costume accessories are not too sharp; and
Carry a cell phone in case of an emergency.

Finally, contact OCSD if you see anything suspicious or dangerous on the non-emergency line at 714-647-7000, or in the case of an emergency or crime in progress, dial 9-1-1.

City Installs Automated Retractable Screen Project to Keep Storm Drains Clean

The City of Yorba Linda is installing new Automated Retractable Screen (ARS) units on storm drains along major arterial roadways around Yorba Linda. These ARS units help keep debris and trash from entering the storm drain system during dry seasons and automatically open on their own during heavy rain flows. Not only does this make it easier to clean pollutants through routine street sweeping, but it keeps trash out of our local waterways where storm drains dump.

In-N-Out Burger Nearing Completion

In-N-Out fans rejoice: Yorba Linda's new In-N-Out Burger is nearly finished! Some of the recently completed milestones include the structural facade and landscaping. The contractor is also progressing on utility installations and connections. The project includes a large covered outdoor patio and a long drive-thru queue with expanded capacity to assist with vehicle circulation. The restaurant is scheduled to open in November.

City Council to Recognize Yorba Linda Veterans

Each year, the City Council is proud to recognize our local veterans. All Yorba Linda veterans are invited to attend the November 2, 2021 City Council Meeting at 6:30 p.m. to be recognized in a presentation by the City Council. The presentation will be held at the beginning of the meeting. For more information, please contact the City Manager's Office at 714-961-7106.

Car Seat Safety Event Comes to City Hall

Come test your child's car seat to ensure it's properly installed and functioning! The City of Yorba Linda, in partnership with the California Highway Patrol and Orange County Sheriff's Department, will be hosting a child car seat safety inspection and installation event on Saturday, November 6, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Yorba Linda City Hall (4845 Casa Loma Avenue). The event is free, but interested participants should make an appointment by emailing carseatsafety@yorbalindaca.gov.

Army Corps' Santa Ana Riverbed Project Continues

The Army Corp of Engineers' project continues in the Santa Ana Riverbed, including storm drain reconstruction and the continued placement of rock. Major earthwork and the dewatering efforts are now complete. The upcoming work over the next few weeks includes the placement of more rock to the top of slope areas, continued storm drain reconstruction, and the construction of the curb for the bike and multi-purpose trail.

The overall project remains on schedule, and no significant delays are anticipated at this time. The bike path between the west end of the project to Gypsum Canyon is scheduled to be completed by July 2022. City staff will continue to work with the contractor and direct residents' concerns to help minimize impacts to the surrounding community. Additionally, City staff will continue participating in project update meetings to stay informed and help communicate residents' concerns during the course of the work.

Yorba Linda Receives CAL FIRE Climate Investment Fire Prevention Grant Award

The City is pleased to announce that Yorba Linda will be receiving a sizeable grant from the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) for the Yorba Linda Fuel Reduction Project, in the amount of $866,000 over 3 years. The project targets seven sites within Yorba Linda’s Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone that contain some of the heaviest vegetation and non-native trees and are adjacent to Chino Hills State Park. These areas are close to high-density residential neighborhoods, high-intensity power lines, water facilities, and community facilities, including schools, parks, and churches. The fuel biomass in these areas contributes to increased fuel load and fire frequency. By prioritizing these areas to remove hazardous fuels, a reduction in the frequency and intensity of wildfires will make Yorba Linda safer.

The Orange County Fire Authority provided significant input and advice during the grant application process, and the City is fortunate to have OCSD as a partner. We are also appreciative of the numerous agencies that provided letters of support in our efforts to obtain this grant, including:

Chino Hills State Park;
Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG);
Southern California Edison;
Yorba Linda Water District;
Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District; and
Orange County Conservation Corps.

City Launches Local Road Safety Plan

The City of Yorba Linda is developing a citywide Local Road Safety Plan geared towards improving traffic safety for pedestrians, bicyclists, transit users, and drivers. To learn more about the project, please visit the project website at yorbalindaca.gov/lrsp and participate in a virtual map input workshop to tell us about your traffic-safety-related concerns on Yorba Linda's streets!

OC Loop Bikeway Project Continues

The County of Orange continues construction on the OC Loop Bikeway project with some traffic control impacts within the City's southern limits. The County is constructing curb and gutter, sidewalk, and multi-use trail improvements on the east side of the Fairmont Boulevard overpass, followed by curb ramp and other improvements at Yorba Regional Park along La Palma Avenue within the City of Anaheim.

In response to public inquiries, the County is adding enhancements to the newly constructed raised medians at the intersection of Fairmont Boulevard and Fairmont Connector to promote better visibility. County staff also modified traffic control setups at La Palma Avenue and Fairmont Boulevard to accommodate school buses needing to make wider turns. The project is expected to be complete by early November.

Tips for Water Conservation

Yorba Linda residents have always been good stewards of our water resources. The State has asked all Californians to reduce water consumption by 15% to preserve water supplies and avoid mandatory cuts in case of prolonged drought conditions. The following tips can help you easily reduce your home water use:

Only use the washing machine when fully loaded;
Turn off the tap while washing your hands;
Take a shower for 5 minutes or less;
Water plants during the coolest part of the day;
Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth; and
Remember to use water wisely.

OC Vector Confirms Bird Samples from Yorba Linda Infected With West Nile Virus

The Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District (OC Vector) informed the City earlier last month that a bird sample infected with West Nile virus (WNV) has been found in the City of Yorba Linda. All residents, park guests, sports leagues, and anyone spending time outside are advised to take precautions and wear mosquito repellents when mosquitoes are most active (dawn or dusk). We urge residents to take charge of their yards by dumping and draining standing water, tossing unused containers, and reporting green pools to OC Vector. Residents can request an inspection if they cannot find breeding sources but are still experiencing mosquito activity. Additionally, the following recommendations can help prevent mosquito bites:

Eliminate any standing water around your house. Many mosquitoes breed in small water sources in residential backyards, and they do not fly far from the source. Eliminating these small water sources can reduce the number of mosquitoes on your property. Search around your property for any standing water (indoors and out) and discard unused containers. Be sure to scrub unused containers thoroughly to remove mosquito eggs;
Make sure all window and door screens on your house are in good repair;
Wear a repellent containing DEET®, Picaridin, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus, or IR3535;
When outdoors, wear long clothing that covers arms and legs; and
Contact the Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District to report dead birds or neglected pools.

For more information about the West Nile Virus or mosquito resources, please visit ocvector.org.

Tips for Managing Stormwater During the Rainy Season

The rainy season is quickly approaching which means it's time for umbrellas, raincoats, and the first flush! The "first flush" is the first significant rainfall after a long period of dry weather, in which the rain flushes months of accumulated pollutants (such as litter, lawn clippings, pesticides, motor oil, and pet waste) from impervious surfaces down storm drains. Unlike the water that flows through sewage piping, water that flows through storm drains is not treated before entering our creeks, rivers, bays, and eventually the ocean.

The City of Yorba Linda encourages you to take these important steps to do your part to prevent dirty stormwater runoff:

Preserve existing vegetation as much as possible;
Closely monitor your lawn watering habits and adjust your watering schedule to reflect the changing weather conditions;
Remove debris from your rain gutters and place it in a green waste container before a clog forms. Direct downspouts and gutters to drain onto your lawn or plant beds where water will soak into the soil; and
Reduce and prevent pollutants from entering the storm drain by placing yard trimmings in a green waste container, picking up litter, maintaining your vehicle, and not over-fertilizing or over-watering your lawn.