City Council Seeking Applicants for District 1 Vacancy
On Oct. 9, City Council Member Barbara Hamilton resigned her District 1 seat. District 1 covers the oldest part of Carlsbad, including the Village and Barrio. When a vacancy occurs, the City Council has 60 days to decide how to fill it, either by an appointment or a special election. On Oct. 22, the City Council decided to fill the vacancy by an appointment process. Applications will be accepted through Nov. 12 from residents interesting in fulfilling the term, which runs until November 2022.
Fire Danger: Santa Ana Conditions
With warm weather and Santa Ana winds forecasted through the next few days, City of Carlsbad public safety officials remind the public to take precautions.
Budget Savings Put to Use
The City Council decided to put $9.1 million in savings from last year’s city budget into an “economic uncertainty” reserve fund so it can be set aside for a rainy day. The decision was part of a larger discussion about how to use a $16.3 million surplus from the fiscal year 2018-19 budget.
Village and Barrio Master Plan Approved
The California Coastal Commission on Wednesday, Oct. 16 confirmed the city's acceptance of 23 modifications to the Village and Barrio Master Plan. This final approval makes the plan effective in all areas of the Village and Barrio, including the Coastal Zone. The Carlsbad City Council held a public hearing on Aug. 20, 2019, and voted to accept the modifications suggested by the California Coastal Commission to the plan and Local Coastal Program.
Safer, Greener Police Cars
Over the last year, the Carlsbad Police Department has hired 24 new police officers, filling vacancies and adding full-time staff. To ensure their fleet meets the needs of the officers, the Carlsbad Police Department will replace 13 patrol cars and purchase nine additional ones for a total of 22 new police cars this fiscal year.
New Pavilion, Gathering Spaces Open
Park improvements are now complete at Aviara Community Park. The new area is located on a 1-acre site of the park and the new improvements are ideally positioned to take advantage of the outstanding views of the surrounding habitat preserve.
Input Sought for Community Block Grant Funding
The City of Carlsbad is looking for community input on how to use federal funds that assist low-income residents and communities. These funds called Community Development Block Grants are granted from the federal government and must be used for programs and services to assist low and moderate income earning Carlsbad residents.
Beat the Heat in a “Cool Zone”
With this week's heat, safety officials remind residents to take advantage of a cool zone, free, air conditioned public gathering places. The city’s cool zones help residents, especially those most vulnerable to heat related ailments, to keep cool and save energy costs.
Trail Volunteer Cleanup, 10/26
The trail volunteer cleanup event on Saturday, Oct. 26, from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m., at Hosp Grove will include trail maintenance and improvements, and mulch spreading. The city will provide the work plan and safety training at the start of the event along with tools, gloves, water and snacks. Please wear closed-toe shoes, sunscreen and a hat. In the event of rain, trail work will be canceled. RSVPs to the event are appreciated.
Local Coastal Program Informational Meeting, 10/29
The City of Carlsbad has released an update to the Local Coastal Program, a plan for how land can be used in the coastal zone. The draft plan is now available for public review and comment.
Complete Rail Closures 10/26 - 27
In order to facilitate infrastructure improvements along the coastal rail corridor, there will be no COASTER or Amtrak Pacific Surfliner service in San Diego County on the weekend of Oct. 26 - 27. Coastal rail service will re-open for regularly scheduled trips in time for the Monday morning commute. Passengers should note that trains may be delayed up to 15 minutes on Monday, Oct. 28.
Halloween Safety Tips
The City of Carlsbad Police Department would like to partner with residents to ensure a safe and secure Halloween. Here are some tips:
Plan ahead
· Plan a Halloween party instead of trick-or-treating—or attend a community event
· Chose comfortable costumes and shoes that do not restrict movement
Commission and Committee Vacancies
The City of Carlsbad is seeking residents interested in filling several commission and committee vacancies, including the Housing Commission, the Community Development Block Grant Advisory Committee, and the Housing Element Advisory Committee. Applications for these volunteer positions are available on the city’s website or in the City Clerk’s Office, 1200 Carlsbad Village Drive.
Carlsbad Steps Up Security Measures
Referencing recent active shooter incidents across the country, Carlsbad City Manager Scott Chadwick kicked off a discussion at the Tuesday, Oct. 22 City Council meeting about steps the Police Department has taken to enhance security for community members and city staff.
Celebrate Dia de los Muertos at Leo Carrillo Ranch
On Nov. 2 celebrate Dia de los Muertos at Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park and experience the tranquil beauty of the Hacienda at night adorned with traditional decorations. Enjoy a special cultural adventure of sights, sounds, and tastes of this traditional Mexican holiday. During a candlelight tour, guests will have the first opportunity to view the ofrendas (alters) that will be on display at Leo Carrillo’s historic Hacienda.
October Holiday Celebrations at Your Libraries
Carlsbad City Library is hosting holiday themed events for all ages at all three library locations during October. Admission is free, and seating is first come, first served. Signups are required as noted for some events.