Monthly News and Updates From the City of Simi Valley |
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Welcome to the September 2022 issue of the City Focus. This is the City of Simi Valley's e-newsletter designed to keep residents informed about the programs, events, and services happening in the City. This issue includes the latest information on:
- New Road Resurfacing Projects
- Residential Standards for Cargo Containers and Metal Accessory Structures
- Preparedness Month
- A New Webinar on How To Qualify for a Turf Removal Rebate
- Youth Ride Free on All Ventura County Transit Bus Lines
- Cultural Arts Center, Library, and Senior Center Programs
Not yet a subscriber? Sign up on our GovDelivery system to receive the latest City of Simi Valley news directly to your email. You can also sign up to receive agendas for public meetings, including City Council and Planning Commission meetings as soon as they are released.
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September is National Preparedness Month |
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For National Preparedness Month this September, assess whether your emergency plan and kit still fit your life. Will your family be happy eating freeze-dried meals with a ten-year shelf life or should you stock their favorite canned foods?
One veteran emergency manager cooked a monthly Spam dinner to ensure he rotated his stock. Plan for one gallon of water per person per day for several days, for drinking and sanitation, which can include drinking the water from canned vegetables.
If you’ve added a furry family member, did you account for their needs? Have you listed your cellphone on VC Alerts to receive emergency notifications? Did you update your family communication plan with your kids’ new school info and put copies in everyone’s bag?
Visit FEMA’s ready.gov for lists, tips and plans to help you update your emergency kit.
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At this meeting the City Council voted 4-1 to direct staff to begin Zoning Code Amendments to modify standards for cargo containers in residential zones, and review standards with the Planning Commission for metal accessory structures in residential zones.
The Staff Report reviews the current standards and potential amendments, which will be brought before the City Council and Planning Commission at future meetings. |
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Election Day is Tuesday, November 8, 2022 |
The City’s General Municipal Election will be held on Tuesday, November 8, 2022 (coinciding with the State of California General Election), for the purpose of electing a Mayor and two City Council Members, one from District 2 and one from District 4.
This will be the first time Simi Valley residents will vote for their City Council Members for Districts 2 and 4. Simi Valley residents living in Districts 1 and 3 will only vote to elect the Mayor. To determine which District you live in, please visit www.simivalley.org/findyourdistrict.
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The water level at Lake Oroville, a primary source of water for the State Water Project, remains critically low. |
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Level 4 Water Shortage Emergency |
Current Water Shortage Emergency restrictions require that both City of Simi Valley/Waterworks District No. 8 and Golden State Water customers follow a one day per week watering schedule (with no irrigation between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.):
- Odd number addresses can water on Saturday
- Even number addresses can water on Sunday
All irrigation is limited to 10 minutes per station (including high efficiency and drip irrigation systems) on designated watering days. This was reduced from 15 minutes at the August 8, 2022 City Council meeting per Metropolitan Water District and Calleguas requirements. |
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Webinar Focuses on Turf Removal Rebate |
The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California is hosting a ZOOM Webinar on Tuesday, October 11, 2022, for a free “Goodbye Grass: Qualify for a Turf Replacement Rebate” webinar. In this class, learn about replacing your lawn with a gorgeous, watershed-wise landscape, and how rebates can help you succeed. Topics include:
• Removing turf without the use of chemicals
• Replacing it with climate-appropriate plantings
• How to apply for a turf replacement rebate
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Fireworks Enforcement Results |
Simi Valley Police Chief Livingstone summarized the strategy and results of the Police Departments 2022 fireworks enforcement effort in a recent memo to the City Council.
The Police Department received 293 fireworks related calls during the 24 hour period between 6:00 a.m. on July 4, 2022 and 6:00 a.m. on July 5, 2022. The marked an increase of 18 calls over the same time period in 2021.
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SVPD Forum Covers Parking Regulations |
The SVPD held an online Community Forum in August that reviewed parking regulations in Simi Valley. Topics included oversized vehicle parking, parking permits, school zones, disabled parking, vehicle abatement, parking complaints, and disputing a parking Citation.
The forum included a presentation from SVPD Officers and a live question and answer period.
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The repaving of Madera Road from Strathearn Place to Royal Avenue has started and is scheduled through the end of October. Construction will be performed between the hours of 8:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.
Although construction will take place during the late evening hours to minimize traffic impacts, motorists are encouraged to take alternative routes when possible.
The repaving of Los Angeles Avenue between Yosemite Avenue and Keuhner Drive is currently underway and is scheduled to be completed on Friday, September 23.
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Bingo Bonanza at the Senior Center |
Calling all Bingo lovers! the Simi Valley Council On Aging (COA), in partnership with the Rancho Simi Senior Club, will host their annual Bingo Bonanza at the Simi Valley Senior Center on Saturday, September 17, 2022. Doors open at 9:30 a.m. and the games begin at 11:00 a.m.
Tickets are $40.00 and include lunch, access to 28 games and a chance at over $2,000 in cash prizes, an opportunity to win door prizes, and a bundle of fun and excitement! Proceeds benefit the COA.
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13 The Musical at the Cultural Arts Center |
Geek. Poser. Jock. Beauty Queen. Wannabe. These are the labels that can last a lifetime. With an unforgettable rock score from Tony Award-winning composer, Jason Robert Brown, (Parade, The Last Five Years, Bridges of Madison County) 13 is a musical about fitting in – and standing out!
Presented by Panic Productions, 13 the Musical is playing through September 18, 2022. Tickets are $28 for Adults, $24 for Students and Seniors, and $20 for Children 12 and under.
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Simi Stars Talent Showcase |
The Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center Foundation is hosting the Simi Stars Talent Showcase on Saturday, September 24, 2022 at 7:00 p.m. Watch the rising stars of the area showcase their talent at the historic Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center. The evening will be hosted by Broadway Star Jacob Haren, who has been in such shows as The Book Of Mormon, A Chorus Line, and Hairspray.
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Suicide Prevention Rock Painting Night |
The Simi Valley Youth Council invites residents of all ages to join them from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., on Friday, September 23, 2022, for a free Rock Painting Night at the Simi Valley Public Library.
Now in its fourth year, this event is designed to bring the community together to paint rocks with inspirational messages and images to share throughout the City. Follow the Youth Council on Instagram for more information.
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READ Adult Literacy Program |
The READ Adult Literacy Program, a partnership between the Simi Valley Public Library provides free instruction for adults, helping with reading, writing, math, GED / HSE and citizenship. Instruction is based on the individual's career and personal goals. This program is available weekly on Wednesdays from 4:00 p.m.- 7:00 p.m. in the Conference Room.
Please note the library's new expanded hours:
- Mon.- Thurs. 10 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
- Fri. - Sat. 10 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Sun. 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
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Proposed North Canyon Ranch Project |
The North Canyon Ranch project is a 160-acre proposed residential development, located in the northwestern portion of Simi Valley, north of the 118 Freeway and the Simi Valley Town Center. The proposed project would include a residential development of 159 single-family homes and 50 multi-family units, along with open space, roadways, landscaping and slope areas.
The City has created a dedicated webpage for the project, which will be updated with reports, public meeting dates, and other related information.
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Serve on the Simi Valley Council On Aging |
The Simi Valley Council On Aging (COA) is looking for eligible seniors to serve on the Executive Board and help manage and develop senior services, fundraisers and programs sponsored by the COA. The COA Executive Board is an all-volunteer board which acts as an advisor to the City Council on senior issues.
All applicants must be 60 years of age or older and reside in Simi Valley. Applications will be accepted through Friday, November 18, 2022.
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Youth Ride Free on Ventura County Buses |
The Youth Ride Free Promotional Program allows youth 18 and under and those over 18 enrolled in high school to ride any public transit bus in Ventura County for free, anytime, anywhere.
High school-aged youth should be prepared to show ID to board for free. The program will run through the 2022-23 academic year.
More information, including frequently asked questions, is available on the Ventura County Transportation Commission's webpage
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On September 17, 2022, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., come join your friends and neighbors at Rancho Simi Community Park to do your part for the environment by participating in the Annual Coastal Cleanup Day. We are meeting at the northeast corner of the park near Arroyo Simi at Erringer Road.
Community service hours are available for scouts and students. Please wear long pants, sturdy shoes, gloves, hat, insect repellent and sunscreen.
For questions and a copy of the Coastal Clean-up Waiver to fill out ahead of time, email pyoung@simivalley.org call (805) 583-6449.
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118 Freeway On-Ramp & Lane Closures |
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Caltrans District 7 has announced on-ramp and lane closures on the 118 Freeway for road work periodically over the next few months. Closures will occur between the hours of 7:00 p.m. through 5:00 a.m.
The closures will impact 118 Freeway on-ramps and lanes between Tapo Canyon Road and Stearns Street. Here are the specific on ramps in Simi Valley where the work will occur:
- Route 118 East Bound On-Ramp at South Bound Tapo Canyon Rd.
- Route 118 East Bound On-Ramp at South Bound Stearns St.
- Route 118 West Bound On-Ramp at North Bound Tapo Canyon Rd.
- Route 118 West Bound On-Ramp at North Bound Stearns St.
Also, up to three lanes on the 118 Freeway may be closed during construction hours. The Route 23 North Bound on-ramp at New Los Angeles Avenue in Moorpark is also subject to closure during the road work dates.
Detour routes and signage will be provided at the time of each closure. Motorists are advised to take alternate routes to prevent any delays. Caltrans will provide updates on the project on their District 7 webpage.
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Careers with the City of Simi Valley |
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Whether you are looking for an entry-level position or are more advanced in your career, the City of Simi Valley has a wide variety of career opportunities. The City offers full and part-time positions, competitive pay, and excellent benefits.
Current City of Simi Valley employment opportunities include:
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