City Focus Newsletter - March 2025 | |
Thank You for Honoring Mayor Fred D. Thomas | |
On Saturday, March 1, 2025, the Remembrance Ceremony brought together hundreds of community members, friends, dignitaries, and family to celebrate the life and legacy of Mayor Fred D. Thomas. Through shared memories and heartfelt reflections, we honored a leader whose kindness, commitment, and vision left a lasting impact on Simi Valley. His contributions will never be forgotten. For those unable to attend, a video of the ceremony is available to watch on the City’s YouTube channel.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who participated and to those who helped make this tribute possible. Your support ensured a meaningful and memorable event for our community.
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Simi Valley: A Blockbuster for Business!
Simi Valley is stealing the spotlight as a top filming destination, and the impact is undeniable!
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426 production days in 2024
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$11.1 million generated in economic impact
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286 productions, including TV shows, feature films, music videos, and commercials
From 9-1-1: Lone Star, The Rookie, Extreme Makeover: Home Edition to The Last Thing He Told Me starring Jennifer Garner, Hollywood chooses Simi Valley for its scenic landscapes, film-friendly vibe, and top-notch industry partnerships. But beyond the cameras, filming brings jobs, business, and a major boost to the local economy!
Building on last year’s momentum, filming activity continues to thrive. Projects from 20th Century Studios, Netflix, and Lifetime have already been completed in Simi Valley, and several more productions are permitted and set to begin shooting in the coming weeks.
Located within the Los Angeles 30-Mile Studio Zone, Simi Valley offers a variety of scenic backdrops, unique locations, and a streamlined permitting process, making it an attractive choice for productions of all sizes. Strong partnerships with Rancho Simi Recreation and Park District, Allied Studios & 76 Ranch further enhance the City’s reputation as a premier filming destination.
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Joseph D. Ayala Appointed to the Simi Valley City Council
At a Special City Council Meeting on February 24th, the City Council appointed Joseph D. Ayala to fill the vacant District 1 seat. Following his appointment, he was sworn in and immediately joined the meeting to begin his new role.
Council Member Ayala brings over 30 years of leadership, communication, and public service experience to the City. He currently serves as the Director of the Proposal Development Center at Teradata, leading global strategy and AI adoption initiatives. Since 2016, he has also been a lecturer at California State University, Northridge, specializing in public speaking and corporate communications.
Beyond his professional career, Ayala is an active community volunteer and advocate for education. He serves on the Simi Valley Education Foundation Board, has volunteered with the Simi Valley Police Department since 2016, and has been involved in various youth programs and nonprofit organizations.
A longtime Simi Valley resident, Ayala is committed to transparent governance, community engagement, and innovative solutions to ensure the city remains a great place to live, work, and grow.
To learn more about Council Member Ayala, visit the City of Simi Valley’s website. To watch the full City Council meeting where he was appointed, visit the City’s official YouTube channel.
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Council Member Mike Judge Appointed to Serve as Mayor Pro Tem
On February 10th, the City Council appointed Council Member Mike Judge to serve as the Mayor Pro Tem.
Mayor Pro Tem Mike Judge was elected to the City Council in November 2010. Additionally, he served as Mayor Pro Tem in 2013, 2017, 2020, and 2023.
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Exceptional Volunteer Honored with the 2024 Wayne Templeton Award
Congratulations to Dorothy Yanick on being named the 2024 Wayne Templeton Volunteer of the Year! On February 10th, the City Council recognized Dorthy for her extraordinary dedication and more than 1,400 hours of volunteer service at the Senior Center over the past three-and-a-half years. Dorothy devoted her time as a meal site volunteer, Friday Bingo caller, and leader of the Coping with Life support group and continues to support numerous Senior Center events.
Dorothy's life of service exemplifies the spirit of the Wayne Templeton Volunteer Award, making her an outstanding honoree for this prestigious award. Dorothy, you are an inspiration!
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Prop 218 Notice: Proposed Sanitation Rate Adjustments
The City of Simi Valley proposes sanitation rate adjustments to ensure reliable, high-quality wastewater services. If approved, the new rates will take effect July 1, with a 3.5% annual increase over the next five years. These adjustments are necessary to maintain and improve the wastewater collection and treatment systems while keeping rates competitive with regional wastewater agencies.
To help the community understand these changes, Simi Valley Public Works will host a community meeting on Wednesday, April 16th, from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Simi Valley City Hall (Community Meeting Room, 2929 Tapo Canyon Road). The meeting will provide an overview of the proposed rate structure, how the Sanitation Enterprise Program funds essential services, and what this means for residents and businesses.
A public hearing on Monday, May 5th, will allow residents and property owners to give input before the City Council makes a final decision.
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Outgoing Board Members Honored
In February, the City Council precognized the following outgoing board and committee members:
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Special Event Support Review Committee: Stephanie Bunker, Laura Hurd, David Kritzer, and Michael Tirpak.
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Council on Aging: Marie Hale, Carol Martin, Jeanie Mortensen, and Janet Plant.
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Neighborhood Councils 1, 2, 3, and 4: Alan Mann, Todd Taylor, Carol Thomaier, Sam Cohen, Jerry Placeres, Satish Shah, Pete Stong, Steven Baker, Rachel Bystrom, Jon Gatewood, Fred Peterson, Tracy Bodis, Don Diamond, Holly Harpham, and Amber Powell.
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Simi Valley Recognizes Black History Month
The Simi Valley City Council proclaimed February 2025 Black History Month, honoring the contributions of African Americans throughout history. Simi Valley Police Officer Jay King and Chief Steve Shorts accepted the proclamation, reinforcing the City's commitment to celebrating Black history and achievements.
Observed each February, Black History Month highlights the impact of Black leaders, artists, educators, and activists on American society. It celebrates past achievements and calls for continued progress toward equality and racial justice.
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Agenda Highlights from the February City Council Meetings
Last month, the Simi Valley City Council discussed and approved several important items:
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Budget Surplus Allocation: Approved the allocation of $9.5 million from the 2022-23 Budget Surplus following the City's Fund Balance Policy.
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New Equipment for Public Works: Approved contracts to purchase two portable electric vehicle chargers and four replacement vehicles for the Public Works fleet.
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Property Agreement: Approved a Reciprocal Access Easement Agreement for City-owned land on Los Angeles Avenue, west of Quimsa Drive.
To view staff reports and meeting agendas, visit the City’s website at www.simivalley.org/citycouncilmeetings.
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Newly Appointed Members to City Boards and Committees
The City Council has appointed the following individuals to serve on various boards and committees:
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Neighborhood Council 1 Executive Board: Carl Lindner, Stefanie Rucker, and Emmy Sundeen.
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Neighborhood Council 2 Executive Board: George Bowman, Gloria Bowman, Al Brown, Robert Guenther, Lillian Jacobs, Michael Shaw, and Gayle Sutton.
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Neighborhood Council 3 Executive Board: Ellen Bebo, Richard Bebo, Ashley Callinan, and Serena Kahm.
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Neighborhood Council 4 Executive Board: Heidi Best, Deanna Block, Peter Calderon, Leroy Leyba, Marta Maitles, and Miranda Myers.
These individuals volunteer to serve, contributing their expertise and leadership to the community. Visit the City's website at www.simivalley.org to learn more about City Boards, Commissions, and Committees.
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Showcase Your Talent in the Annual Talent Show
The Simi Valley Youth Council invites community members of all ages and backgrounds to submit audition videos for its highly anticipated annual Talent Show at the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center. Whether you sing, dance, perform magic, or have a unique act, this is your chance to compete for cash prizes or enjoy performing on stage.
Audition videos are due by Sunday, March 23rd. Selected performers must be available for one rehearsal night on April 1st or April 2nd.
This year's show will run for two nights, Friday, April 4th and Saturday, April 5th, giving more performers a chance to take the stage. Don't miss this opportunity to share your talents and support a great cause.
View past performances on the Youth Council's YouTube channel @SimiValleyYouthCouncil431, including a video of Micky and Morgan's Mashup performance from the 2023 Talent Show.
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Apply to Serve on the Simi Valley Arts Commission
The City of Simi Valley is accepting applications from community members eager to share their time and talents by serving on the Simi Valley Arts Commission.
Applicants with experience in arts and culture, education, business and community leadership, marketing, or community outreach are encouraged to apply. The successful applicants will serve from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2027.
The application deadline is Friday, March 14th.
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Apply to Serve on the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center Foundation
The City of Simi Valley is accepting applications from community members eager to share their time and talents by serving on the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Foundation. The City is currently recruiting to fill three vacancies. The City Council-appointed vacancies are for terms beginning July 1, 2025, and ending on either June 30, 2026, or June 30, 2028. Foundation Board meetings are held on the second Wednesday of the month at 5:30 p.m. at the Cultural Arts Center.
If you love the arts and want to support culture in our community, apply today! Applications are due by 5:30 p.m. on Friday, March 28th. For more information, email smcgee@simivalley.org.
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Bingo Bonanza at the Senior Center
The Simi Valley Council on Aging will host its biannual Bingo Bonanza at the Simi Valley Senior Center, 3900 Avenida Simi, on Saturday, April 5th. Doors open at 9:30 a.m., and the games begin at 11:00 a.m.
Admission tickets are available at the Senior Center for $40 with lunch included. The pre-sale ticket deadline is Friday, March 21st. If available, tickets will be sold at the door (lunch not included). All attendees must be 18 years or older.
For more information, call (805) 583-6363.
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Simi Valley YES Hosts Interview Skills Workshops
Throughout February, Simi Valley Youth Employment Services (YES) hosted interview skills workshops at the local high schools. Students in 10th grade heard from local business and community leaders on topics such as work permits, applying for jobs, resumes, job interviews, tips for on-the-job success, and more. YES will host an additional Interview Skills Workshop for teens and young adults on Thursday, April 10th, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Simi Valley Public Library. Reservations are recommended, though walk-ins are welcome. Seating is limited.
For more information about YES programs and events, call (805) 583-6766 or email Ryan Fowler at RFowler@simivalley.org.
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Seeking Exhibitors and Screening Technicians for Wellness Expo
The Council on Aging (COA) invites health and wellness exhibitors and screening technicians to participate in the upcoming Wellness Expo on Wednesday, May 21st, at the Simi Valley Civic Center Plaza from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
This outdoor event provides valuable health and wellness resources to individuals aged 50 and older and their families. Admission is free to the public.
For details on becoming an exhibitor, sponsor, or screening technician, contact the Senior Center at (805) 583-6364 or email RMartin@simivalley.org. Applications are due by Friday, March 28th.
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Registration open for YAP Monday After School Program
Students are invited to be part of YAP’s 2025 Spring After-School Musical: A Midsummer Night’s Dream. This magical and comedic adventure follows four friends who get lost in an enchanted forest, encountering mischievous fairies, love potions, and unexpected chaos. Expect plenty of laughs, a bit of magic, and a bumbling actor with donkey ears falling for the fairy queen.
This 10-week session meets on Mondays from March 31st to June 9th, 3:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. (There will be no class on May 26 for Memorial Day). The cost is $350.
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This Month at the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center
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March 8th: The Opening Reception for the Art Trek & Friends Showcase will be held from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. The exhibit features work by Art Trek's talented teaching artists and friends and runs through June 7. The free exhibit is available by appointment only, Wednesday through Saturday, from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. To schedule a visit, email Cassaundra Rachal at crachal@simivalley.org.
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March 19th: DEJÀ VU is a tribute to Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young. Known for their incredible harmonies, this band delivers an authentic performance of the band's legendary hits, from energetic rock songs to soulful ballads. This acoustic concert is part of the Tribute Series. For ticket prices and purchasing, visit www.svvac.org/concerts or stop by the box office.
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Now Through March 23rd: Ragtime The Musical, presented by the Actors' Repertory Theatre of Simi, brings E.L. Doctorow’s novel to life in a moving and powerful production. The show celebrates the soaring sounds and hopeful spirit of America at the dawn of the 20th century. For ticket prices and purchasing, visit www.svvac.org/mainstage or the box office.
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Job Seekers, Save the Date!
If you're looking for a job in or around Simi Valley, don't miss the annual Youth Employment Service Job and Career Fair on Saturday, April 26th, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 p.m. This event is free and for all ages at the Simi Valley Public Library!
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Events at the Simi Valley Public Library
The Simi Valley Public Library offers a variety of events for patrons of all ages. Join us for one of the Library's monthly programs or special events for March!
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March 7th: Courageous Chronicles invites tweens ages 9-12 to a STEAM activity that explores creating non-Newtonian fluids like slime, oobleck, and putty, offering a sensory and educational adventure.
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March 10th: Spend a morning crocheting, learn how to make a 5x5 granny square, and contribute to a community-made afghan. No experience is necessary.
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March 11th: Teen craft invites teens ages 10-18 to a perler bead craft.
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March 15th: Scoil Rince Daryl Rose Irish Dance School will showcase traditional step dancing in a recital celebrating St. Patrick's Day!
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March 30th: Celebrate Women's History Month with an afternoon of history and theater as local actress Roberta Bassin brings Amelia Earhart to life through performance, photographs, and a Q&A in an event for all ages.
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Request for Zip Book Suggestions
Help expand the library collection! Zip Books is a program that allows patrons to request books not currently available in the library and have them delivered directly to their homes through Amazon. This program helps ensure a selection that better reflects the community's interests.
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Simi Valley Public Library's Friends Corner
Spring is here, bringing a sense of renewal and community support. Recently, books were donated to help a local Little Free Library (Books in Bloom) with a book drive for those affected by the Eaton Fire.
This month, stop by the store for special deals on DVDs, audiobooks, hardback picture books, and books by authors like Lee Child, Tom Clancy, and Clive Cussler.
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Visit simivalleylibrary.org for a complete list of events and activities.
Regular Library Hours:
Mon.- Thurs. 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Fri. - Sat. 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Sun. 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
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Public Notice: Drone and Helicopter Activity
Southern California Edison (SCE) is conducting aerial inspections in the coming weeks as part of its wildfire prevention and mitigation program. Residents may notice drones or helicopters in their neighborhoods during this time.
These inspections help assess electrical equipment on poles and towers from various angles to identify any potential issues that may require maintenance or repair. The duration of each inspection will vary, typically lasting between 30 to 60 minutes per pole or tower.
To stay informed about SCE outages and other information, visit www.sce.com.
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Help Protect the Calleguas Creek Watershed
The City of Simi Valley is part of the Calleguas Creek Watershed, a total land area from which stormwater drains into streams, rivers, or other bodies of water.
Stormwater runoff carries pollution created in our neighborhoods, such as vehicle oil, pet waste, and fertilizers, directly into the Arroyo Simi, Calleguas Creek, and the Pacific Ocean, where it can seriously harm water quality. Together, we can protect the Calleguas Creek Watershed by taking small, everyday actions to reduce pollution in our area.
Learn more about the 10 easy practices that help maintain a clean watershed by visiting Ventura County’s Community for a Clean Watershed website at www.cleanwatershed.org.
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Spring into Action: Create Your Flood Safety Plan
With March expected to bring the heaviest rainfall of the season, now is the perfect time to create a flood safety plan for your family. If you find yourself under a flood warning, whether at home or while traveling, here’s what you should do:
- Seek shelter immediately in a safe location.
- Avoid walking, swimming, or driving through floodwaters. Remember: Turn Around, Don’t Drown!
- Even six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet, and one foot of moving water can sweep away your vehicle.
- Stay clear of bridges over fast-moving water.
Being prepared can help you stay safe when the waters rise.
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Job Opportunities
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:
- Police Officer (Academy Complete)
- Police Officer (Lateral)
- Police Officer Trainee
- 911 Police Dispatcher (Lateral)
- 911 Police Dispatcher Trainee
- Building Inspector II
- Crossing Guard
- Maintenance Superintendent (Streets)
- Mechanic I/II
- Bus Driver (Transit Coach Operator) (Regular/FT)
- Bus Driver (Transit Coach Operator) (Regular/PT)
- Bus Driver Trainee (Transit Coach Operator Trainee) (Regular/PT)
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