Community Connection
May 2014 (Click HERE to visit the City's Calendar)
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BIKE TO WORK!

 

May is National Bike Month in the City of Chula Vista and across the country.  Whether you are an avid biker or have never biked at all, this month is for you as National Bike Month is meant to increase bicycling awareness and ridership!  Bicycling provides many rewards to riders such as exercise, lower stress levels, an increased connectivity to their community, and a smaller carbon footprint. Chula Vista has over 123 miles of dedicated bike paths, lanes, and routes connecting neighborhoods, shopping centers, and schools with another 40 miles proposed.  Free Bike Chula Vista maps and Safe Routes to Middle School bike maps are available at the City's Conservation booth at weekly Farmer's Markets in the Third Avenue Village and at the Otay Ranch Town Center as well as online, CLICK HERE

Community members are also encouraged to participate in Bike to Work Day on Friday, May 16.  Participants can visit a "pit stop" in the morning to refuel with free snacks, beverages, and to pick up a Bike to Work Day t-shirt.  For a list of pit stops in Chula Vista and across the region, CLICK HERE.  For more info on the City's alternative transportation and environmental programs, CLICK HERE, or call (619) 409-3893.  

VOTING AND ELECTION NEWS  
  

Chula Vista's next election will be held June 3, 2014, to elect two council members and the City's next mayor.  It's time to start thinking about who your representatives will be!  To see who is running, CLICK HERE.

In 2012, Chula Vista voters passed Proposition B, which, in part, provides for a mandatory run-off election beginning with the 2014 election.  Regardless of whether a candidate receives more than 50 percent of the vote in June, the top two vote-getters for each seat will be placed on the November ballot.  The candidate with the highest number of votes in November is elected.

To participate in the June election, you must be registered to vote by May 19. Remember, you must re-register if you have moved or changed your name. CLICK HERE to check the status of your voter registration. Online voter registration is now available! CLICK HERE
to register. Paper registration forms are also available in the Office of the City Clerk, 276 Fourth Avenue, Building A and in all Chula Vista public libraries.  All voters have the opportunity to permanently vote by mail. More than 50 percent of the votes cast in Chula Vista during the November 2012 election were by mail.  By signing up, you will automatically receive a mail ballot each time there is an election within your precinct.  The Registrar of Voters or the City Clerk must receive your application no later 5 p.m. on May 27, to vote by mail in the June election. To sign up, CLICK HERE.

CSI CHULA VISTA
 
If you ever wonder how a crime scene is processed as seen on "CSI Las Vegas" or "CSI New York," here's your chance to learn up close and personal.  The Chula Vista Police Department Crime Lab will be conducting a ten-week "Inside CSI" program beginning May 12 through July 21, from 6-10 p.m. on Mondays (no class on Memorial Day Holiday).  Registration is now open and costs $250 per person or  $225 each if two or more persons register together.  Student rate is $185 and those ages 13-17 must attend with an adult (no fee is charged for the accompanying adult).  The deadline to register for the class is May 5.

The agenda includes forensic science topics such as crime scene photography, bloodstain pattern analysis, latent print processing, firearms, and footwear documentation.  Attendees will process their own mock crime scene in the ninth week of training based on what they have learned.  For more information and to register, please EMAIL, or call (619) 691-5249.

COOL CALIFORNIA CHALLENGE  

 

Help make Chula Vista a COOL California City and be eligible for prizes by participating in the COOL California Challenge currently underway. Now through May 30, residents are encouraged to sign up, CLICK HERE.

The City will receive a portion of $50,000 based on the number of new participants and our ranking at the end of the month.  Then from June 1 through August 31, Chula Vistans can participate in the "Points Race" and enter your household energy data and car mileage each month.  Last year, Chula Vista was really close to winning this race and many residents said entering the data made them more aware of their energy use.  For more information, call (619) 409-3893.  Go Chula Vista -- let's win this! 
DID YOU KNOW... 
  
...Chula Vista was ranked #11 in California as a top city for young families.  Statistics by NerdWallet Finance measured public schools, housing affordability and city economic growth as leading factors to their recent study.  To see the survey results, CLICK HERE.

... the City Clerk's office is pleased to make available a new, user-friendly look for the City Council agendas and packets. The new site, CLICK HERE, provides convenient access to agendas and minutes with quick links to information about items; staff reports and item attachments, such as resolutions, ordinances, and agreements; live and archived Council Meeting video.  Agenda packets and video from 2013 and earlier are still available through the City Clerk's website, CLICK HERE.  You can also register to receive notifications when City Council agendas are published, CLICK HERE.

...Brilliant Foreign Language Education, a private school in the Heritage area on East Palomar Street, is offering a summer camp for children interested in learning Chinese.  The camp is scheduled for June 9 through July 18.  Please call (619) 721-6552 or EMAIL.

...congratulations to the following outstanding residents/businesses voted our CLEAN Champion award winners:   MAAC project for CLEAN Air Award; Harry Orgovan from Chula Vista Kayak for CLEAN Water Award; Gracia y Paz Covenant Church for CLEAN Land Award; Julian Estrada for CLEAN Youth Award, and Jose Dorado, Project Coordinator from Housing Division, for CLEAN City Employee Award.

  ... four new restaurants opened in Chula Vista recently and though they are all very different, they each speak to Chula Vista's growing culinary scene. Savoie Eatery, by far the fanciest of the four, is an upscale French/Italian establishment with a menu that ranges from Short Rib Lasagna to Steak Diane. If you're looking for a delicious dining experience with a really cool vibe - this place is it! Located in the Otay Ranch Town Center, (619) 591-5757, CLICK HERE. Which Wich, offers specialty sandwiches like muffulettas. If you go for lunch, don't pass up your opportunity to order a cookie - they bake them fresh to order; at 2260 Otay Lakes Rd. #102, (619) 741-9424, CLICK HERE. Do you like pizza, but are tired of the same old delivery? Project Pie is a new concept in pizza where you pick a size, pick your sauce and add as many toppings as you want, for one flat price. Located next door to Which Wich on Otay Lakes Rd., (619) 869-8910, CLICK HERE. Rita's Italian Ice not only serves Italian Ice, but also frozen custard, sundaes, milk shakes, ice cream sandwiches and ice cream cakes. This place is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth! Find them at 1463 East H St., (619) 307-3743, CLICK HERE.

...here's your opportunity to be more involved with your city!  The City is accepting applications for several volunteer positions on Boards and Commissions, including Charter Review Commission, Cultural Arts Commission, Growth Management Oversight, Safety Commission, and Youth Action Council.  For a complete list of openings and application deadlines, CLICK HERE.

...help lower energy use and costs for your business by contacting the SDG&E Energy Savings Center at 1-(800) 644-6133, or CLICK HERE.

   ... if you are tired of clipping coupons and forgetting them at home, Shop Chula Vista Now has hundreds of discounts to local merchants...all in one free coupon card. Look for a Shop Chula Vista Now card in your local Get1Free magazine, or CLICK HERE, download the card and start saving today! Just show your card at local retailers that display the Shop Chula Vista Now Urban Orchard logo to get discounts. Where do you find out what discounts are available? CLICK HERE to search by merchant category.

...we love hearing positive statements about our City employees!  Recently, the Chula Vista Presbyterian Church and Preschool wrote the City to thank the Public Works inspectors regarding the Hilltop Drive Pump Station Rehabilitation improvements at 940 Hilltop Drive.  Specifically, they pointed out Joselito Castillo, a ten year employee, who has been very diligent in making sure the project accommodates the church with all their needs and has as minimal impact as possible to their daily routine. Thank you Jose for your dedication!

...Chula Vista residents are urged to take a brief survey on the City's Hazard Mitigation Plan which emphasizes planning for disasters before they occur.  Respond by June 30, CLICK HERE.

...our Chula Vista Fire Department recently donated two retired fire engines to fire agencies in Mexico.  Although the engines were determined not usable for our City's needs, two cities in Mexico, Tecate and Ensenada, were very grateful to receive the donated engines.  These fire agencies struggle to identify funding to purchase much needed equipment and the donation will help both cities and their residents.

...progress is moving along at the H Street Extension demolition project.  During the next month, building slabs and concrete paving will be demolished causing some noise and ground vibration during normal work hours of 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekdays.

... if you are looking for a place to host your high school or college graduation party or a birthday celebration and don't want your house left in a mess, you can rent a location from the recreation department!  They offer 13 locations across Chula Vista to host your next function.  All rental fees include tables and chairs, as well as an indoor space to keep you dry, warm or cool as the case may be. You can find all facilities, along with costs and pictures, CLICK HERE.
UPCOMING EVENTS 
  
  
Cinco de Gato
During the month of May, the Chula Vista Animal Care Facility (CVACF) is hosting a special cat adoption event.  For only $25, you can take home your "PURRfect" furry friend (regularly $65).  Adopt a cat and you will receive a $20 Petco gift card in addition to a bag of goodies for your new family member.  The CVACF, 130 Beyer Way, is open Tuesday-Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.  Call (619) 691-5123 for more information.
  
International Mother's Day
USA Multicultural presents International Mother's Day 2014 on Sunday, May 4, as a day to celebrate all the special women in our lives. From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., everyone is welcome to Memorial Park, 373 Park Way, for a fun filled day of free family activities and entertainment. CLICK HERE. Don't miss it! 
  
Youth Basketball League
Register May 5-23 for the summer 2014 youth coed basketball league for kids born between the years of 1998-2005. Cost is $95 for residents and $119 for non-residents with games played at Salt Creek Recreation Center, 2710 Otay Lakes Road, and Parkway Gymnasium, 385 Park Way.  For more information and to register, CLICK HERE.
  
Chula Vista Community Series at Petco Park
Buy your tickets now for the Chula Vista Community Series at Petco Park which    benefits the Chula Vista Charitable Foundation.  Save up to 30% when you use discount code CV2014 at padres.com/Chula Vista.  Friday, May 9, see the Padres vs Marlins at 7:10 p.m. and watch the 10th anniversary fireworks!  For more information about the reduced ticket price or the Chula Vista Charitable Foundation, CLICK HERE.
  
Immigration/Naturalization Workshop
On Thursday, May 15, from 3-5 p.m., a free workshop will be held at the Civic Center Branch Library, 365 F Street, on immigration and naturalization.  Presented by U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services, the session will cover eligibility requirements, preparation for the interview, practice interviews, library resources and more.   
   
Chula Vista Fun Run
Don't forget to register now to run, walk, or stroll at the U.S. Olympic Training Center on Saturday, May 17, for the sixth annual Chula Vista Community 5K Fun Run!  Registration is only $10 per person and includes a t-shirt.  CLICK HERE for more information and to register.
  
Thanks to Volunteers
The Norman Park Center, 270 F Street, is hosting its annual Older Americans and Volunteer Luncheon on Thursday, May 22, at 11:30 a.m. During the luncheon, staff will recognize our incredible volunteers who make Norman Park Center the most fun and welcoming place for seniors in Chula Vista.  Tickets are on sale now --  $5 for residents, $6 for non-residents. This event sells out fast so purchase your tickets early. For more information, call Norman Park at (619) 409-1930.
  
Memorial Day Holiday
Monday, May 26, is a day of remembering those who died while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. The City of Chula Vista recognizes these brave men and women and honors them for their ultimate sacrifice to our country. On this day of remembrance, you can commemorate Chula Vista's fallen by visiting the  monument in Memorial Park where the names of the Chula Vista Veterans who died while in war are inscribed.  You can also visit Chula Vista's virtual war memorial, CLICK HERE, where not only the names of the fallen soldiers are listed, but also biographies of each individual. In recognition of Memorial Day, all City offices and facilities will be closed on May 26. 

Assemblywoman Office Hours
Francine Maigue, District Director for the office of Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez (80th Assembly District), will hold satellite office hours in the South Chula Vista Branch Library on Wednesday, May 28, from 3-6 p.m. The public is invited to bring questions and concerns, to hear about bills and issues before the Assembly, and to share their ideas for legislation.  The library is located at 389 Orange Avenue.
  
"Chula Vista - the Good, the Bad & the Just Plain Wrong!"
Everyone is invited to be part of a diverse group of citizens working to debunk the myths and celebrate the reality of San Diego County's second largest city. The event will be facilitated by well-known professor/political analyst Carl Luna, and hosted by the Library and the Friends of the Library.  Set for Friday, May 30, from 8:30-11 a.m. in the Civic Center Branch Library, 365 F Street, the event is a civic engagement project funded by a grant from the Chula Vista Charitable Foundation, an affiliate of the San Diego Foundation.  Reservations are not required. 
  
Summer Reading Program
Save the date for the Chula Vista Public Library's summer reading program, "Paws to Read," scheduled from June 6-July 19.  Visit your library branch to participate in this special program where kids can earn prizes and free books while keeping up with reading skills over the summer.  The entire family is encouraged to participate.
 
This Edition:
Bike to Work!
Voting and Election News
CSI Chula Vista
COOL CA Challenge
Did You Know...
Upcoming Events

 
 
Contacts

  ______________________

 

SERVICES

 

Animal Care

Animal Control:  476-2476

Pet Adoptions:  691-5123

  Animal Care Online

 

Environment

CLEAN Business Program: 

409-1975 

 

Energy & Water Conservation:  

409-3893

 

Storm Water Hotline:  397-6000

 

Environmental Services, 

Household Hazardous Waste, Recycling and Solid Waste: 

691-5122

 

Community

Graffiti Hotline:  691-5198

Graffiti IN PROGRESS:  911

 Park Reservations Online

 

 

Service Requests:  397-6000

  Service Requests Online 

 

Transit:  233-3004

  

Library

Civic Branch:  691-5069

South Branch:  585-5755

Otay Ranch Branch:  397-5740

 Library Online

 

Recreation

Administration:  409-5979

Recreation Online

 

CV Woman's Club:  409-1980

Heritage Center:  421-7032

Loma Verde Center:  409-1939

Loma Verde Pool:  409-1987

Montevalle Center:  691-5269

Norman Park Center:  409-1930

Otay Center:  409-1999

Parkway Center:  409-1980

Parkway Pool:  409-1985

Parkway Gym:  409-1990

Salt Creek Center:  585-5739

Veterans Center:  691-5260

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DEVELOPMENT

Land Development:  691-5024

Building:  691-5272

Planning:  691-5101

Code Enforcement:  691-5280

Redevelopment & Housing:

691-5047

Development Services Online

  

Economic Development:

409-5870

Small Businesses:  691-5248

__________   

 

PUBLIC SAFETY

Emergency:  911


Fire

Main Line:  691-5055

Prevention Division:  691-5029

Prevention Online

 

Police

Report Crime/Dispatch: 

691-5151

__________   

  

GOVERNMENT

Mayor & Council:  691-5044

__________   

  

ADMINISTRATION

 City Attorney:  691-5037

City Clerk:  691-5041

City Manager:  691-5031

 

Communications

Media Relations & 

Special Events:  691-5296

 

Finance

Main Line:  691-5250

Purchasing:  691-5141

Business Licenses Online

 

Human Resources

Main Line:  691-5096

Job Hotline:  691-5095

 Volunteering:  691-5000  

 

City of Chula Vista  |  Office of Communications  |   www.chulavistaca.gov