October 2024

Welcome to the City of Novato's monthly newsletter! This issue features Measure M information, Novato's new street sweeping mobile app, Novato's all-agency permit advice center, a small business networking & workshop event, Grant Avenue Bridge Project update, Novato Police Department's Employee of the Quarter, Parks & Recreation events and more!

You can stay up-to-date on City news and events throughout the month by visiting novato.org/connectwithus and signing up for specific topics that are most important to you.

What is Measure M?

Earlier this spring, the City reached out to our community to discuss the City’s budget challenges and gather valuable input. After receiving feedback on our community’s top budget priorities, the Novato City Council unanimously voted to place Measure M on the November 2024 ballot. 

If approved by local voters, Measure M would increase Novato’s local sales tax rate by 0.75%, adding 7.5¢ to a $10 purchase. Measure M would continue to protect essential services and quality of life with locally controlled revenue which could be used to:

• Fix potholes and maintain city streets
• Maintain 9-1-1 emergency response and public safety
• Maintain parks and recreation programs and facilities
• Reduce the risk of wildfires

If enacted, Measure M requires strict fiscal accountability protections, including:

• All funds must stay in Novato for local services only and cannot be taken by the State, the County or other agencies; and 
• All funds would be subject to independent audits and mandatory public spending disclosure as well as reevaluating the measure’s necessity at year 10 and every 5 years thereafter.

The City’s ongoing budget deficit, $4.3 million this fiscal year, will continue to grow without service reductions or enhanced revenue. 

Novato Unveils Street Sweeping Mobile App

The City of Novato and Marin Sanitary Service have teamed up to launch a street sweeping mobile app. This easy-to-use tool allows residents and businesses to track their street sweeping schedules and receive timely reminders to move their vehicles on sweeping days.

Street sweeping plays a vital role in maintaining clean streets and keeping leaves and debris out of storm drains. Your help in moving parked vehicles ensures a more effective and efficient service throughout our community.

To find out your sweeping schedule, follow these simple steps:

1. Download the Novato Street Sweeping MSS app in the app store;
2. Enter your home or business address;
3. Be sure to allow notifications in your device’s settings;
4. Select “More” to set up notifications and choose your day and time — that’s it! 

Questions? Please contact Novato Public Works at (415) 899-8246.

Novato's All-Agency Permit Advice Center

Last month, our Community Development Department officially launched Novato Permit Connections, a new and improved all-agency permit advice center designed to streamline the permit process for our community.

Whether you’re working on a common homeowner project, considering an accessory dwelling unit, or planning for commercial tenant improvements, our dedicated team is here to provide the resources you need to move your projects forward efficiently.

We’re Novato Proud of the positive feedback we’ve received so far — here’s what people are saying:

”Great experience! I was greeted promptly and politely. The inspector explained what I needed to do for my project plan.”

“Staff was efficient, knowledgeable and professional. I had a great experience. Thank you.”

“The in-person interaction set a positive tone for the overall process.”

Novato Permit Connections brings together City staff and representatives from Novato Fire, North Marin Water, and Novato Sanitary—all under one roof. No appointment necessary!

Novato Permit Connections is available the first and third Thursday of every month from 9am to 11am at our Permit Center located at 922 Machin Avenue.

Small Business Workshop & Networking Event

The City of Novato Economic Development Advisory Commission is partnering with the Novato Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Novato Business Association and Marin Small Business Development Center to support small business on Tuesday, November 12 from 5:30 - 7pm at Novato City Hall, 901 Sherman Avenue. You’ll have the opportunity to network with fellow business owners and connect with expert small business advisors while enjoying light refreshments and drinks.

The evening will feature a mini workshop on creative funding options for business launches and expansions. Attendees will gain insight from an expert financial advisor on strategies such as microloans, zero-interest crowdfunded loans, traditional crowdfunding, factoring and more.

This free event is open to all.

Grant Avenue Bridge Project Update

We’re making great strides toward the completion of the Grant Avenue Bridge Project. Last month, crews completed the southwest bridge barrier and sidewalk, poured the concrete retaining wall, and finished the southern sidewalk, driveaway and ramps.

Over the next month, work will include paving as well as storm drain and landscaping improvements.

One-way traffic control will continue to be in place, and the detour is anticipated to remain until November 2024. Pedestrian access will be maintained during this time. ⁠

This project is anticipated to be completed in January 2025 and benefits include widened roadway access; safety improvements for pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists; new bridge railing and pavement; and new signage and a streetlight system. All estimated timelines are tentative and subject to change.⁠

We look forward to making these much-needed improvements to your roadway and appreciate your patience and understanding during construction.⁠

Novato Police Department Employee of the Quarter 

Officer Ornelas was recently selected as the Employee of the Quarter by her peers at NPD. Officer Ornelas began her career as a police officer with the Novato Police Department in July 2022. She was born and raised in Sonoma County, attended Petaluma High School and earned a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish and Sociology, with a minor in Translation Studies from the University of California, Santa Barbara.

Officer Ornelas is fluent in Spanish and loves working in Novato. So far this year, she has had over 31 DUI arrests and continues to aim to keep our community safe every night while out working on patrol. Keep up the great work Officer Ornelas! If you see her around town, be sure to say hello.

Interested in starting your career at the Novato Police Department? We're hiring!

Movie at Pocket Park

Join us for a FREE Movie at Pocket Park, 950 7th Street. We'll be playing A Bug's Life on Saturday, October 12 at 7pm. Movie will begin approximately 15 minutes after sunset

Guests are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs, blankets, and a picnic dinner to enjoy during the show.

Please leave non-service animals at home.

For more information, call 415.899.8290.

Novato Gymnastics Center Silver Celebration

Join us in celebrating the 25-year anniversary of the Novato Gymnastics Center on Saturday, October 19 from 10am - 3:30pm. Enjoy a performance by the Novato Gymnastics Competitive Team, recognition by the Novato City Council, memorabilia displays, interactive art, an inflatable obstacle course, free gymnastics classes for children ages 3-12 (registration required) and more!

Indigenous Peoples' Day Event

The Multicultural Advisory Commission (MAC) is hosting an Indigenous Peoples' Day event on Wednesday, October 23 at 6pm at Novato City Hall.

The evening features a screening of 'Against the Current', a documentary about young Native activist Daunnette Moniz-Reyome's family preserving their heritage, followed by a Q&A with a Museum of the American Indian representative. Light refreshments and popcorn will be served. 

Not-So-Scary Halloween Magic Show

Get ready for a day of enchantment at this free Halloween magic show on Saturday, October 26 at Novato City Hall. Immerse yourself in a world of wonder and amazement at this free magic show.

To accommodate everyone, we're now offering two time slots — 10am or 11:30am. No registration required — simply choose the time slot that works best for you.

For more information, call 415.899.8290.

Día de los Muertos Celebration

Join us for our inaugural Día de los Muertos celebration on Saturday, November 2 from 4pm – 6pm on the Novato Civic Green, 901 Sherman Avenue. We will honor and celebrate deceased loved ones with ofrendas (offerings), festive crafts, delicious food and vibrant music. All ages are welcome.

Mark your calendars and invite your friends and family for an unforgettable cultural celebration. Stay tuned for more details! 

American Red Cross CPR, AED & First Aid Course

CPR can double or triple the chance of survival when you take action. This course will train you in Adult, Child and Infant CPR, AED and First Aid techniques. Participants who satisfy Red Cross requirements will receive a digital certification, valid for 2 years. Register for one of the three available courses: November 2, December 14, or January 25.

Computer Basics 101

Unlock the world of computers, or tablets, with our beginner friendly class! Gain essential skills in navigating software, managing files, and basic troubleshooting. This hands-on course is designed for absolute beginners, offering a friendly environment to explore the foundations of computing. Bring your own laptop or tablet, depending on which course you register for. Each session is a total of 4 days, with multiple sessions offered.

Margaret Todd Senior Center Membership

Applications for 2025 Margaret Todd Senior Center membership are now available. For $42 per year, gain weekly access to more than 15 game groups, puzzles, lending library and more. Get discounts on Center special events like our Irish Lunch and Summer Luau. Plus, receive a monthly newsletter via mail or email with important resources and program information.

Novato Historical Guild: Novato Family History Day

Celebrate Novato's History and share yours! Pick up your free interactive family history kit on Saturday, October 26 from 10am - 2pm on the Novato Civic Green, 901 Sherman Avenue. All members of the community are welcome!

Learn more about our communities diverse history from supporting groups including Novato's Multicultural Advisory Commission, Novato Unified School District, School Fuel, Hamilton Tk - 8th School Mothers Club, North Marin Community Services, Novato Unified School District, and the Marin Indian Alliance.

In collaboration with the City of Novato, Novato Unified School District and North Marin Community Services. For more information, please email info@novatohistory.org.

Pioneer Park Cemetery Tour

Join the Novato Historical Guild for a Pioneer Park Cemetery Tour on Saturday, October 26 from 4:30pm - 6pm

Explore the final resting place of early settlers, pioneers, and notable figures in our community. This event is a unique opportunity to connect with the past and gain a deeper appreciation for our heritage.

Interested in learning more about Novato's history? The Novato Historical Guild operates two museums — Novato History Museum, located in the 1850 Postmaster’s House, 815 DeLong Avenue, and The Hamilton Field History Museum, located in the 1935 Hamilton Firehouse, 555 Hangar Avenue. Both museums are open Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 12-4pm. For more information, please call (415) 382-8614 or go to novatohistory.org.

Downtown Novato Community Farmers' Market

Join your friends and family in the heart of downtown for the final month of the season to enjoy a diverse selection of fresh produce from local farmers, prepared and packaged foods to enjoy at the market or to go, local artisan booths and activities for kids. Come check out all the market has to offer, grab some dinner and shop downtown every Tuesday through October 29, 4pm – 8pm on Sherman Avenue between Grant and De Long Avenues.

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Reúnase con sus amigos y familiares en el corazón del centro de la ciudad para disfrutar de una variada selección de productos frescos de agricultores locales, alimentos preparados y envasados para disfrutar en el mercado o para llevar, puestos de artesanos locales y actividades para niños. Venga a ver todo lo que el mercado tiene para ofrecer, cene algo y compre en el centro todos los martes del 7 de mayo al 29 de octubre, de 4:00 a 8:00 p. m., en Sherman Avenue, entre las avenidas Grant y De Long.

Nostalgia Days Classic Car Show & Night Cruise

Join the Downtown Novato Business Association for the 28th Annual Nostalgia Days Classic Car Show on Saturday, October 12 from 10am - 4pm. Enjoy live music while you admire classic cars, hot rods and customs followed by an award ceremony at the end of the day.

This free event includes a Friday Night Hot Rod Cruise on Friday, October 11 from 5pm - 7pm through Downtown Novato.

Visit nostalgiadaysnovato.com to register your car for the competition or sign up to be a vendor or volunteer.

Safe Trick or Treat

Bring your little ghosts and goblins to Downtown Novato on Saturday, October 26 from 11am to 2pm where they can trick or treat at various downtown businesses.

This free event is hosted by the Downtown Novato Business Association and is open to the public. 

Chipper Days Program

Have a yard full of tree branches and brush? Marin Wildfire Prevention Authority is offering FREE curbside chipper days. It's a great way to dispose of unwanted vegetation & prepare your property for wildfire season.

Be sure to sign up by the Friday before each chipping event. After registering, homeowners should place their pile on the curb (typically where garbage cans go) by 8am on Monday morning, which will be picked up by 5pm that Friday.

Upcoming Program Dates:

• Week of October 14

Don't miss this chance to clean up your yard and reduce wildfire risk!

NUSD Workforce Housing

Attracting and employing people who share the vision to engage, inspire and empower students to achieve their best is a top priority of Novato Unified School District, and has become increasingly difficult due to three practical realities:

• Insufficient Public Education Funding
• Staffing/Teacher Shortages
• High Cost of Living

To address these challenges, the Board of Education has made a commitment to explore the possibility of workforce housing and has dedicated resources to take a deep dive into the subject.

Workforce housing is one of several strategies being used to retain, attract and employ exceptional and dedicated talent.

City of Novato Sustainability

Marin Green Home Tour

The virtual Marin Green Home Tour on October 24 at 6pm will showcase how five Marin homeowners are adapting their homes to combat climate change, improve air quality, save water, generate clean energy, and move towards a greener, more resilient future. This free event features short video tours of the homes, followed by live Q&As with the homeowners.

Learn about heat pumps, induction stoves, solar and battery systems, rainwater harvesting, greywater recycling systems, and other strategies to create a comfortable, efficient, and sustainable home that doesn’t cost the earth.

MCE Small Business Energy Program

MCE has launched a new Small Business Energy Advantage program that provides no- and low-cost upgrades to help you save on monthly bills and maintenance costs, improve comfort & safety, and build healthier spaces. Qualifying small businesses will be matched with an energy expert for a free on-site assessment to identify potential upgrades including LED upgrades, smart thermostats, and air purifiers. To determine if you meet the program’s criteria, start the eligibility process today.

Zero Waste Week

Join Zero Waste Marin for North Bay Zero Waste Week, October 12-19, which raises awareness of the environmental impacts of waste. Throughout the week, groups around the North Bay will demonstrate how they are part of the solution via public education events and activities that focus on reducing, reusing, recycling, repurposing, and composting.

Events include Compost Giveaway (Marin County Civic Center), Rohnert Park Clothing Swap (Rohnert Park), Reuse + Repair Fair (Rohnert Park), Film Screening: Common Ground (Novato Public Libraries), and Zero Waste 101 Webinar.

Upcoming City Meetings

The City of Novato encourages community participation at our upcoming public meetings. Meeting details, including information on how to participate, are included in each meeting agenda packet. Agendas are posted at least 72 hours prior to each scheduled meeting. To receive meeting agendas via email and/or text, sign-up at novato.org/connectwithus.

October 8 at 6pm | City Council

October 10 at 2pm | Zoning Administrator - Cancelled

October 14 at 7pm | Planning Commission

October 16 at 7pm | Design Review Commission

October 17 at 6pm | Sustainability Commission

October 22 at 6pm | City Council

October 23 at 6pm | Multicultural Advisory Commission

October 24 at 2pm | Zoning Administrator

October 28 at 7pm | Planning Commission

We're Hiring — Join Our Team!

Interested in a career in local government? Check out some of our current openings:

• NEW Accounting Assistant I/II — deadline to apply is October 13
• NEW Deputy Public Works Director — deadline to apply is October 20

Please note the following positions will remain open until filled.

Community Development

• Principal Planner (Full Time)
• Senior Building Inspector (Full Time)

Police

• Police Cadet (Part Time)
• Police Officer Trainee (Full Time)
• Police Officer - Lateral/Academy Graduate (Full Time)

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