Thank you for making it another great summer in Whittier! I enjoyed seeing many of you at our concerts in the park these past few months and I know you'll like what the City has in store for you in September. Scroll down for information on upcoming fall events and activities for all ages happening at our facilities, including the Whittier Public Library.

Also below is important information regarding the City's current Water & Sewer Rate Study and public hearing, as well as a newly launched GIS portal on our website, and tips for protecting your home and our greater community from the threat of West Nile Virus.

As a reminder, residents are urged to evaluate emergency preparedness and disaster response plans for your homes and businesses as part of National Preparedness Month in September. Many of us felt the recent earthquake and, if you're like me, wondered, "Is this the big one?" Remember, you can never be too careful. Scroll down for more information and tips for ensuring your family is safe in the case of an emergency. Please also note that while the intense heat continues in Whittier, the City will elevate our facilities to cooling centers for residents. This includes our community centers, senior centers, and Library locations so you can get out of the sun and stay hydrated.

Don't forget to register for the annual Spooktacular 5K - it's open now!

Brian Saeki, City Manager

Be Prepared: Review Your Emergency Checklist for National Preparedness Month

The City of Whittier is partnering again with the FEMA Ready Campaign to promote awareness of National Preparedness Month in September and the importance of creating an emergency plan before a disaster happens. The 2024 theme is “Start a Conversation” and will focus on encouraging families and neighbors to set aside time together to talk about their emergency plans and steps to enhance safety. Just last month, Southern California registered a 4.4 earthquake that shook our community - literally!

In addition to coordinating internal drills and employee activities, the City encourages Whittier residents to make a plan now that safeguards not only your loved ones, but your home, business, and belongings in the case of a disaster. Similarly, mark your calendar now for the Great California Shake Out taking place on October 17th and get ready to practice your "Drop, Cover and Hold On" during a communitywide earthquake drill with your family and colleagues.



Visit www.ready.gov to learn more about National Preparedness Month or contact the City of Whittier's Emergency Management Division for additional tips at (562) 567-9830.

Stay Informed: 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.

Key Dates to Remember:

·     City Council Presentation: Learn more about the rate study and provide your input at our first public meeting on Tuesday, September 10th at 6:00 p.m. at Whitter City Hall, 13230 Penn St.

·     Public Hearing: A second meeting will be held on Tuesday, November 12th at 6:00 p.m. at Whittier City Hall to allow for additional community feedback.

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.

Your voice matters! Attend both meetings to 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 us at (562) 567-9530.

Get ready for an exciting new season of learning and fun with fall recreation classes, starting on September 16th. Whether you’re looking to pick up a new hobby, stay active, or make new friends, we have something for everyone—youth, adults, and seniors alike.

From fitness and dance to arts, crafts, and enrichment programs, our diverse lineup offers a wide range of opportunities for all ages to engage in, explore, and enjoy. Classes are popular - don't wait to register you or your child. For a complete list of classes and to sign up, visit WhittierRec.com or call (562) 567-9430.

CPA Announces Grants for Whittier Non-Profits

The Clean Power Alliance (CPA) is currently accepting applications for its 2024 Community Benefits Grant, with a total of $325,000 available to support local non-profit organizations working to advance clean energy goals.

Non-profits in CPA’s service areas, including Whittier, are encouraged to apply for grants ranging from $15,000 to $30,000 no later than September 13th, 2024. Eligible projects may focus on clean energy, sustainability, workforce development, or environmental and social justice. Visit CleanPowerAlliance.org/cbg for more details and to apply.

Participate: Coastal Cleanup Day September 21

Register for Spooktacular 5K Run on October 26

Don't Miss Pumpkin Patch Splash October 5

Dive into a unique Halloween adventure with our Pumpkin Patch Splash at the Palm Park Pool (5703 Palm Ave.) on Saturday, October 5th, from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Unlike traditional pumpkin patches, this event features a floating pumpkin patch, complete with swimming and outdoor fun for just $5 per person. Last year was a blast, and we couldn't resist bringing this one-of-a-kind event back while the heat sticks around!

The Pumpkin Patch Splash is open to all ages and registration is not required — just arrive early to secure your spot. Proper swim attire is necessary and personal floaties and life jackets should be left at home. Swimmers under 50 inches in height or those who need assistance must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

The Palm Park pool is heated, so prepare for a warm and wacky time at this unforgettable fall event. For more information, call (562) 567-9495 and we'll see you there!

Library Hosts Game Night September 24

It's game on at the Whittier Public Library! Teens and adults are invited to gear up for an unforgettable game night at the Whittwood Branch Library (10537 Santa Gertrudes Ave.) on Tuesday, September 24th at 6:00 p.m. Discover new games, mingle with fellow enthusiasts, and engage in friendly competition. With a diverse selection of board games featured each month, there's always something new to try. This month's featured board game is "Dadada." If you're ready to play, contact the Whittwood Branch for information (562) 567- 9950.

Enjoy Storytimes at the Library in September

Join the Whittier Public Library for a variety of age-oriented Storytimes beginning the week of September 3rd through October 3rd at both the Central Library (7344 Washington Ave.) and Whittwood Branch (10537 Santa Gertrudes Ave.). Bring your little one and experience delightful stories, songs, and interactive fun designed for young children and a caregiver. For additional information call (562) 567-9900.

Calling all teen bookworms: join the monthly Teen Book Club at the Whittier Public Library to connect with other peers and hear about cool stories. Unlike other clubs, there are no assigned readings and registration is not required to participate. Discuss your latest reads, discover new favorites, and get crafty with book-themed activities each month.

As a special incentive, attendees will also enjoy free boba bubble tea! Attend the next meet-up on Tuesday, September 10th at 5:30 p.m. at the Central Library (7344 Washington Ave.). For any questions or information call (562) 567-9900.

The Whittier Parks, Recreation & Community Services staff continues to host Movies in the Park once a month on select Saturdays through October. Don't miss a new story about the world of imaginary friends in "IF" taking place at at Penn Park (13950 Penn St.) on September 28th at 6:00 p.m.

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 at a different local park each month and remember your lawn chairs, blankets, and a picnic dinner from your favorite local restaurant. All movie screenings begin at dusk. For more information call (562) 567-9450 or click here for more details.

Dust off those cleats and get your bat ready: the fall season of Whittier's popular Adult Softball program is just around the corner!

Priority registration for returning teams is officially open and general registration begins on September 9th, with a deadline of September 23rd for all registrations. A mandatory manager meeting will also be held at 6:00 p.m. on September 26th at the Whittier Community Center (7630 Washington Ave). All games will be played at York Field located at 9110 Santa Fe Springs Rd. Participants must be 18 or older, though 17-year-olds are welcome to participate with a signed liability waiver.

To register visit www.WhittierRec.com, or call (562) 567-9430. Here's to a great season!

Local youth ages 3 to 5 are invited to attend age-appropriate coding workshops on Thursdays this fall beginning September 26th at 10:30 a.m. Dive into the world of coding through interactive storytelling and play activities at the Central Library (7344 Washington Ave.). Limited space is available for this special program - reserve a spot at (562) 567-9900. Let's unplug and code together!

Reel Club Hosts Q&A with Director Heather Lenz on September 16

Whether you’re upgrading your skills, scouting for knowledge and information, or connecting with other heroic readers, a library card is your key to an arsenal of untapped resources.

Spark your creativity as a builder or programmer by tinkering in the Whittier Public Library’s makerspace, peruse the library’s stacks and databases for new stories and adventures, or kickstart your critical thinking skills to defeat the Decepticons of misinformation lurking online! Use your library card to fuel your mind with books, e-books, audiobooks, and museum passes. Sign-up to get your card here.

As the heat wave continues, Whittier's splash amenities are still available. Now through September 29th, visit the City's Splash Pad at Lee & Erica Owens Park (9954 Greenleaf Ave.) or splash fountains at Palm Park (5703 Palm Ave.), Parnell Park (153990 Palm Rd.), and Michigan Park (8228 Michigan Ave.) between the hours of 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily.

Please remember that on days that we are experiencing extreme heat and temperatures, the City will operate cooling stations at facilities including its community centers and senior centers for residents needing to take a break from the sun. Residents are encouraged to avoid dangerous heat-related circumstances by staying in the shade whenever possible, wearing lightweight clothing, staying hydrated with plenty of water, checking on pets and their needs, and having a plan for potential power outages. Please call PRCS to confirm cooling station hours at (562) 567-9450 and take all necessary precautions while the warm weather persists.

Students Run Whittier: Register for Fall Season

Tip & Toss: Stop the Spread of West Nile Virus