MORE MURRIETA · MAY 2023 · UPDATES FROM THE CITY OF MURRIETA | |
Message from the City Manager
May 2023
May is here, and the longer days, warmer weather, and colorful blooms create the perfect opportunity to explore our region's natural beauty and connect with our loved ones and neighbors.
In this month's newsletter, we share a variety of ways you can get involved with the community. Whether trying one of the new businesses set to open in May or attending our moving Memorial Day Observance Ceremony at the Murrieta Veterans Memorial, there are plenty of ways to connect.
In this edition, you’ll find information about the following and more:
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Grand opening of Murrieta Aldi set for this week!
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Finance Department kicks off budget season for the City of Murrieta
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Murrieta Fire & Rescue releases Annual Report
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Murrieta Market Nights hosts special May the Fourth-themed night in Downtown Murrieta
- Take a brief community survey to help shape the future of the Murrieta Public Library
- Remember the fallen at the Memorial Day Observance Ceremony on May 29
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Stay up to date on legislation that may impact Murrieta
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Save the date for the 2023 Murrieta State of the City on June 15
I hope you get outside and take advantage of this beautiful time of year in Murrieta. And remember, we are always connected by community.
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Kim Summers
Murrieta City Manager
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City News
City kicks off budget season
Murrieta Begins Budget Process for Next Two Fiscal Years
The City of Murrieta has officially started its budget process for the next two fiscal years, which will run from July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2025. The City's Finance Department is pleased to share that the budget workshop for the Operating and CAP budget will take place on May 2 at 2 p.m., and the budget adoption will occur at the June 6 City Council meeting. Residents are encouraged to sign up for the City's email and text alerts to stay informed on these events and other important updates. Sign up for meeting notifications and other event alerts on the City's website at www.MurrietaCA.gov/NotifyMe.
City of Murrieta Releases Newest Financial Statement and Audit
The City of Murrieta recently received its Fiscal Year 2022 Financial Statement and Audit, which provides essential financial information regarding the City's performance in the past fiscal year. To learn more about the City of Murrieta’s Finance Department and to view these reports online, visit the City’s website: www.MurrietaCA.gov/Finance
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Mark Your Calendar
Upcoming special events and public meetings
May Public Meetings & Closures
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City Council Meeting | May 2 and May 16
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Planning Commission | May 10 and May 24
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Parks and Recreation Commission | May 4
May Special Events
June Special Events
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Murrieta Market Nights | June 1 and June 15 | Event details
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State of the City | June 15
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Fathers Day Car Show | June 17
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Murrieta Birthday Bash | June 24
July Special Events
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Murrieta Market Nights | July 6 and July 20 | Event details
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Concerts in the Park | July 1,8,15, 22 and 29
Meeting times and dates are subject to change. Please visit the City's agenda webpage for meeting details and full agendas.
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Murrieta Market Nights
Shop, dine, and explore downtown
Join the Galactic Fun at Murrieta Market Nights on May 4
Murrieta Market Nights is a bi-weekly event held in the heart of Downtown Murrieta on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month, from 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. Street closures are in place for vendors and entertainment along Washington Avenue and Juniper Street, attracting hundreds of shoppers to downtown. The night offers diverse vendors, music, food, and activities, with local businesses, artisans, crafters, musicians, and artists bringing creative energy to the event.
The upcoming Market Night on Thursday, May 4, from 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. features a "May the Fourth Be With You" theme. Attendees are encouraged to dress in their best Star Wars costume, as the event will feature a costume contest, with the best dressed being featured on their social media. The event will also have a Murrieta PD officer with a K9 on site, allowing attendees to meet local law enforcement and their furry companions.

This is an excellent opportunity to explore downtown Murrieta and enjoy the spring weather. Visitors can learn more about Murrieta Market Nights on their website. May the fourth be with you!
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Memorial Day Observance Ceremony
Join us May 29 to honor the fallen
The City of Murrieta invites the community to remember the brave men and women who gave their lives while serving our country. On Monday, May 29, the City's Memorial Day Observance Ceremony will take place at 8:00 a.m., adjacent to the Murrieta Veterans Memorial, at Town Square Park and Amphitheater.
The City is honored to have Bryan Vaughn, a retired Sergeant Major from the United States Marine Corps, as the special keynote speaker. Sergeant Major Vaughn will share his insights and experiences, inspiring us all to honor and support those who have served and continue to serve our country.
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Murrieta Fire & Rescue
Business inspections, fire safety requests, and annual report
Fire Inspectors Increase Business Inspections
Murrieta Fire & Rescue (MFR) inspectors have increased their business inspections, ensuring the community and businesses stay safe. If you own a Murrieta business, you will know that an inspection request is legitimate by the MFR inspectors' uniforms and vehicles. They wear MFR uniforms and drive City-marked vehicles.
Murrieta Fire & Rescue Releases First Annual Report
Murrieta Fire & Rescue has released its first-ever Annual Report, highlighting the work done for the citizens throughout the year. The department aims to continue highlighting its achievements annually. The report is available to view and download online for interested individuals.
Emergency Medical Services Week
The week of May 15 is EMS (Emergency Medical Services) Week, and the MFR will celebrate the hard work of its paramedics and emergency medical dispatchers. The past year has been challenging for first responders, and this week serves as a reminder to the community of the dedication and sacrifices made by these individuals. MFR is grateful for the work of its EMS team and their commitment to serving the community with compassion and expertise.
Department Urges Property Clearing to Prevent the Spread of Wildfires
Murrieta Fire & Rescue sent requests to community members to ensure their homes are fire-safe and meet municipal fire code requirements to prevent wildfires. The State-mandated defensible space inspections will be conducted in Murrieta's high fire severity zones in the coming months. Detailed information on property clearing can be found on the City's website.
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Murrieta Community Services
We create community through people, parks, and programs.
Children Programs
Are you looking for fun and engaging activities for your children? Look no further than the City's children's programs! The Dog Tales program on Mondays at 4:30 p.m. is perfect for young animal lovers. Come and listen to stories read by our trained therapy dogs. A special Raptor Rap program on May 3 at 4 p.m. will feature a live raptor presentation that is sure to be an unforgettable experience!
Teen Programs
The City offers a variety of programs that cater to teens. Study hours in The Lab are offered on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 4 p.m. – 6 p.m. through May 31, providing a quiet and distraction-free space for students to study and complete their assignments. Arcade Day on May 18 at 3:30 p.m. is perfect for those who love video games. Come and enjoy various classic and modern arcade games with your friends. And for those feeling stressed, the Stress Ball Take-Home Kit program on May 22 at 10 a.m. will provide a fun and creative outlet for relaxation.
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News from the Murrieta Public Library
Help shape the future of Murrieta Public Library Services.
Murrieta Public Library Survey
The Murrieta Public Library is dedicated to fostering community connections. The library is conducting a community survey to inform the development of a strategic plan to improve library services. This is the first of several opportunities for input on community services as the City of Murrieta looks at ways to better serve residents. Responses will provide important insight into community needs. This survey will remain open until June 4, 2023.
Raptor Rap
Mark your calendars for a thrilling and educational experience as Sky Hunters Raptor Rescue presents the Raptor Rap on Wednesday, May 3, at 4 p.m. This free event is open to the public and promises an unforgettable experience for all ages. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to see live raptors up close and personal at the Murrieta Public Library while the experts from Sky Hunters Raptor Rescue educate them about the role of raptors in the ecosystem. Don't miss out on this rare chance to learn about these magnificent creatures and their importance to our environment. Get ready for an exciting adventure, and join us for the Raptor Rap!
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Economic Development Updates
Exciting new developments coming to Murrieta
El Patrón Set to Open Full-Service Restaurant and Cantina
El Patrón is in the process of opening a full-service restaurant and cantina in the former Murrieta Roadhouse location. The new restaurant has final approval from the City of Murrieta and will be ready to open soon. Excitement is building for the new restaurant, which has another location in Downtown Riverside.
Aldi Prepares for Grand Opening of New Murrieta Location
Aldi, the popular grocery store chain, is preparing to open its doors in Murrieta. The new location (28230 Clinton Keith Road) will be located in the Vineyard Shopping Center, near Costco. On May 4, just before 8 a.m., the store will hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony and grand opening to celebrate its arrival in the community. Customers can look forward to Aldi's signature mix of affordable, high-quality groceries, including fresh produce, meats, and a variety of pantry staples. With this new addition, Murrieta residents will have even more options for their grocery shopping needs.
Premier Destination for Relaxation and Wellness Coming to Murrieta
The Murrieta Hot Springs Resort is currently under construction and set to reopen later this year. The resort will span 46 acres and feature natural mineral springs, making it a premier destination in the region. The new owners of the Murrieta Hot Springs Resort also operate The Springs Resort in Pagosa Springs, Colorado, which recently won USA Today's Readers Choice Awards as the #1 Best Spa Resort in the US. The Murrieta resort promises to provide top-notch relaxation, wellness, and entertainment with 202 rooms, 35+ pools and spa tubs, yoga studios, massage spas, mud baths, and all major spa amenities.
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Join the Murrieta Team
Check out Jobs at the City of Murrieta
Employment Opportunities at the City of Murrieta
The City of Murrieta is consistently ranked one of the best places to work in the region and has a strong organizational culture and dedicated workforce.
Have you considered looking for the next step in your career by serving your community? Check out the City's website and learn more about current openings. Make sure to check back often, as new positions are listed frequently. The following positions are currently posted on the City's website:
Visit Murrieta's jobs website today!
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Save the Date: Murrieta State of the City 2023 | |
New Organics Recycling
Residential service updates
The City of Murrieta is introducing a new organics recycling program for residents. Residents can now put all organic materials—examples include food scraps, produce, and yard waste—in their green waste bin. Waste Management is turning leftover food and yard trimmings into materials that positively impact the environment. This program aims to divert organic waste such as food scraps, yard trimmings, and other compostable materials from landfills and create high-quality compost and soil amendment products. The City's new organics recycling program is required by the State to comply with Assembly Bill 1383. For more information from the State, please visit this website. The City and Waste Management are committed partners, eager to work with residents to support this new service. Please watch for more resources and tips in the upcoming months. Waste Management will also be present at many upcoming community events, where you can ask questions in person.
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Helping people experiencing homelessness in a meaningful way
The City's Homeless Services team recognizes the importance of responsible compassion and encourages everyone to consider the impact of their actions when interacting with individuals experiencing homelessness. By working together and taking a thoughtful and compassionate approach, we can make a positive difference in the lives of those who are struggling and help build a stronger, more connected community for all.
Here are some do's and don’ts of responsible compassion for our neighbors experiencing homelessness:
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DO answer requests with a firm NO
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DO treat people experiencing homelessness with respect
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DO offer information where they can get help
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DO make donations or volunteer with local organizations helping the homeless
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DO report illegal activity by calling 911 or non-emergency at (951) 696-3615
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DON'T encourage panhandling by giving money, food, tents, etc.
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DON'T allow anyone to camp or loiter on your property
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DON'T assume you're making a difference when you are giving; you may actually be hurting, not helping
If you or someone you know in Murrieta need homeless services or if you observe an encampment in our community, please get in touch with Murrieta's Homeless Services Hotline at (951) 461-6447 or email HomelessServices@murrietaca.gov.
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City of Murrieta Car Show
Rev up your engines for Father's Day fun for all ages
Get ready to rev up your engines and head over to Murrieta's Father's Day Car Show on Saturday, June 17! This exciting event will feature a live band, Candy-O, performing a tribute to the iconic American rock band, The Cars. With nearly 100 cars already registered for the show, attendees can expect to see an impressive collection of classic and modern automobiles. Although food vendor applications for the car show are now closed, there are still opportunities for local businesses and non-profit organizations to participate as vendors. Don't miss out on the chance to be a part of this community event and celebrate Father's Day with some amazing cars, music, and local vendors. Register now at www.tinyurl.com/fathersdaycarshow23.
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City of Murrieta Birthday Bash
Join the City of Murrieta for a celebration to remember
The upcoming Birthday Bash in Murrieta on Saturday, June 24, promises to be a fun-filled event for everyone. The headlining band, K-TEL Allstars, will take the stage and transport the audience back to the groovy 70s with their soulful music. While food vendor applications for the event are now closed, there are still opportunities for local businesses and non-profit organizations to participate as vendors. This is an excellent chance for businesses to showcase their products and services to a diverse crowd. Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to celebrate Murrieta's 32nd birthday and enjoy great music, food, and fun!
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Updates from City Hall
New services offered online make doing business with the City convenient
The City of Murrieta is always looking for ways to enhance customer service. At the end of February, new online services launched that make doing business with the City easier than ever. The permit software will include a Customer Self Service (CSS) portal allowing the public to interact with the EnerGov permit tracking and land management system. Users can look up permit details, pay fees, and schedule building inspections through CSS. The systems also allow licensed contractors to apply for specific construction permits.
This new software will mean 24/7 accessibility and no trip to City Hall required, saving gas, time, and money. Check it out on the City's website.
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City of Murrieta Legislative Updates
Updates on laws and regulations
Advocating for the Interests of Residents and Businesses
Throughout each year, the State Legislature and the United States Congress propose and enact legislation, some of which affect local municipal government. The City of Murrieta recognizes the need for active legislative engagement at the local, state, and federal levels to enhance the interests of Murrieta’s residents and businesses. City officials maintain close relationships with Murrieta’s state and federal representatives.
At times, it is in the interest of the City to take a position on proposed legislation. To view this year's approved Legislative Platform, visit our website here. This page will be updated throughout the year as the City takes positions on various pieces of legislation.
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