More Murrieta 💛 December News from the City of Murrieta

MORE MURRIETA · DECEMBER 2022 · UPDATES FROM THE CITY OF MURRIETA

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Message from the City Manager

December 2022

It happens every year, but somehow December arrives and I wonder where an entire year has gone. It has been meaningful to look back on everything we have accomplished as a City throughout 2022. This is by no means an exhaustive list, but here are some highlights:

Supported the successful sale of the Calvary Bible College campus, which will once again become the Murrieta Hot Springs Resort
Launched Murrieta Money Match to support local businesses and help residents' dollars go further (learn how to get yours below)
Held a local municipal election
Ranked as the fiscally healthiest full-service city (100,000+ population) in all of Southern California
Celebrated major milestones for both Murrieta Fire & Rescue (75 years of service) and the Murrieta Police Department (30 years of service)
Selected for a $3M grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce to further the impact of the Murrieta Innovation Center
Received more than $1.5M in grant funds to expand programming at the Murrieta Public Library

I am grateful for the community's support and every City staff member who made these things and much more a reality throughout this past year.

But we are not finished yet. December is sure to be a special month filled with festivities. Get details about the following events and more in this edition of More Murrieta:

The City kicks off the holidays with a week of Holiday Magic starting December 3
Support your neighbors in need with the Holiday Toy and Food Drive
Murrieta PD and Lights for Life partner to host a 5K on December 10
Mark your calendar for other upcoming events and meetings

As we finish this year, I wish you all a very happy holiday season. May this time be filled with joy, and may we all be connected by community.

Kim Summers

Murrieta City Manager

Share Your Input

City's Development Services Department collecting data on design standards

In the 2019-20 budget, the State of California allocated $250 million for all regions, cities, and counties to prioritize planning activities that accelerate housing production to meet identified needs of every community. With this allocation, the California Department of Housing & Community Development (HCD) established the LEAP Grant Program with $119 million for cities and counties. LEAP provides one-time grant funding to cities and counties to update their planning documents and implement process improvements that will facilitate the acceleration of housing production and help local governments prepare for their 6^th cycle regional housing need assessment (RHNA) and implementation of the subsequent Housing Elements.

The City was awarded a LEAP Grant, and the preparation of Multi-Family Residential Design Guidelines and process improvements are goals with part of the grant funds.

To gather more public input on the architectural styles preferred in the city, the project team has put together an online survey. We want to know what designs catch your eye, what architectural styles you prefer, and other comments or concerns you may have regarding residential design. Please take 10 to 15 minutes to read and complete the Objective Design Standards Survey here.

Project Contact:

Carl Stiehl, Senior Planner

Email: cstiehl@murrietaca.gov

Phone: (951) 461-6063

Holiday Home Decorating Contest

Is your home or block the most festive of them all? Enter now!

Calling all Murrieta residents! The holidays are here and with them come decorations. If you live in Murrieta, and have a house worth showing off, or know someone who does, please enter the house into our Holiday Home Decorating Contest. Better yet, if your entire block is worth showing off, enter the entire block. All entries will be judged by the City’s Parks and Recreation Commission. Judging will run December 7-11.

Registration opened on November 23 and closes at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, December 4. *Make sure your decorations are up by Tuesday, December 6*

Once registration closes and winners are selected, the City will release a map of the winning entries on Friday, December 16. We encourage you to view all the festive homes in person to see just how jolly they are.

If you have any questions, please contact the City at (951) 304-PARK (7275) ext. 6127.

The categories for judging include:

Best Block: a majority of the homes should be participating.
Best Use of Lights: think Clark W. Griswold in National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation…something where you might need to wear sunglasses even at night.
Most Creative: this entry really doesn't follow the norm or reference traditional themes, but makes you stop and say, "Wow!"
Holiday Spirit: this entry seems to have traditional elements or goes with the true meaning of the season.
Most Festive: this entry makes you laugh out loud and has a jolly, cheery, and good-humored theme to it.
Best Overall: this entry is truly imaginative, inspired, and innovative.

Local Hazard Mitigation Plan Survey

Comments and suggestions being accepted on Murrieta's disaster-mitigation strategy

The City of Murrieta is updating its Local Hazard Mitigation Plan, and community input is essential to making it effective. The plan identifies Murrieta's natural hazards and critical facilities vulnerable to these hazards. This plan lists potential actions to reduce risk and future damage.

Your response to this survey will help the City create a thorough and effective plan that allows us to prepare for and respond to disasters.

Public comments and suggestions are being accepted until December 15. For additional information or if you have questions, please contact Rachel Hollinger at (951) 461-6169 or RHollinger@MurrietaCA.gov.

TAKE THE SURVEY

Thank you for helping make sure Murrieta is ready to respond when they need it most.

Murrieta Fire & Rescue

Neighbors helping neighbors

Safety Tips to Keep Your Holidays Fire-Safe

As you deck the halls this holiday season, be fire smart. A small fire that spreads to a Christmas tree can grow large very quickly. Follow these safety tips to keep your holidays fire-safe.

🎄PICKING THE TREE

Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched.

🎄PLACING THE TREE

Before placing the tree in the stand, cut 2” from the base of the trunk.
Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents, or lights.
Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit.
Add water to the tree stand. Be sure to add water daily.

🎄LIGHTING THE TREE

Use lights that are listed by a qualified testing laboratory. Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use.
Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections. Read the manufacturer’s instructions for the number of light strands to connect.
Never use lit candles to decorate the tree.
Always turn off tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.

Murrieta Honors Life of Retired Fire Chief

Murrieta Fire & Rescue is saddened to announce the passing of retired Fire Chief Marvin D. Curran at the age of 93. Chief Curran was a lifelong Murrieta resident, US Army veteran, dedicated public servant, and founding member of the Murrieta Fire Department. He was the second fire chief to serve in Murrieta Fire's 75-year history.

Fire Chief Bernie Molloy shared that "Chief Curran was an icon in this community. Someone can rarely be raised in a community and be a tireless public servant in that same community; Chief Curran is one of the few who did just that."

Public service has long been a part of the Curran family. Marvin D. Curran is the son of E. Hale Curran and the father of recently retired Murrieta Fire Captain Richard Curran. Marvin joined the fire department when he was 18 years old and was the youngest member to volunteer for the fire department at that time. In addition to his volunteer firefighting duties, he was the full-time school custodian and the first school bus driver at Murrieta Elementary. When a bond attempt was made to become a unified school district, he was a Murrieta School District board member. He was appointed assistant fire chief in 1958 by Ray Thompson and served as fire chief from 1972 until his retirement in 1992. Under Chief Curran's leadership, Murrieta became an incorporated city in 1991, and he helped the department to transition from a volunteer to a combined career fire department. Most recently, he celebrated the fire department's 75th anniversary this past April.

Murrieta Fire & Rescue personnel will shroud their badges as a sign of respect to Chief Curran, who was the last surviving member of the original Murrieta volunteer fire department.

Memorial services have yet to be announced.

Boots to Badges Outstanding Community Service Honoree

Temecula Valley has selected Battalion Chief Mike Ramos as one of the "Boots to Badges" Outstanding Community Service Honoree recipients. The award honors those who transitioned from serving their country to serving their community.

Murrieta Fire & Rescue Battalion Chief Mike Ramos has dedicated his life to selfless sacrifice to his country and community. He enlisted in the United States Air Force when he was 17 years old, and began active duty in January 1984, when he was 18. He started his military career in Intel, better known as "classified- can not discuss" to the civilian world. He was assigned to the 6920th ESG, Misawa Air Base, in Japan. During his military career, he also served as a scheduler for all B-52 and KC-135 flight personnel for the 93rd Bombardment Wing, at Castle Air Force Base, in California. He was honorably discharged in 1988 at the rank of Sergeant.

During his 32 years serving Murrieta's citizens, he has responded to countless emergencies. He was officially promoted in July 2015 to the rank of Battalion Chief. Today, in addition to responding to emergencies, he is the communication lead, accreditation team member, and chair on multiple committees.

Community Holiday Events

A week of magic throughout Murrieta

The City of Murrieta will bring the holiday magic to town with an entire week of fun kicking off on Saturday, December 3. Residents and visitors are encouraged to attend one or all of the free, family-friendly activities, including Donuts with Santa, the Murrieta Tree Lighting Ceremony, and to visit their neighborhood’s first-ever Santa in the City.

Donuts with Santa

On Saturday morning, December 3, from 9 a.m. – 10:30 a.m., little ones can get a treat and a visit with the main man himself at the Donuts with Santa event. The event will take place at Murrieta Town Square Park and Amphitheater (11 Town Square) between the Murrieta Public Library and amphitheater. Thanks to event sponsor The Winfield Group Real Estate Team, Dunkin’ Donuts will be onsite to provide donuts for the little ones and coffee for the adults to enjoy, along with holiday crafts and a photo op with Santa. Donuts will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis to the first 400 children. While there is no fee to attend, the City asks that attendees bring one can of non-perishable food to support the City’s Holiday Toy and Food Drive.

Murrieta Town Square Park Tree Lighting, Toy and Food Drive

The Murrieta Town Square Park Tree Lighting will bring more festivity to Murrieta’s Town Square Park. From 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m., visitors can enjoy crafts, character appearances, a holiday story reading, and joyous entertainment from a brass quartet and jazz trio. They will perform holiday favorites as guests enjoy an evening under the stars. Santa will also be a part of the fun and available for photos during the event.

At 6:30 p.m., the City will hold its official tree lighting. The 40’ pine tree is located in the heart of Town Square between City Hall (1 Town Square) and the Murrieta Police Department. The event is also a part of the Murrieta Holiday Toy and Food Drive, with all items donated to local families and charities.

Santa in the City, December 5 - 9 from 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

This year, the City is excited to launch its first Santa in the City series of Polar Express-themed community gatherings throughout Murrieta. Monday through Friday, December 5 – 9, from 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. (the event starts at 4 p.m. for our special needs community on Tuesday), families can enjoy visits with Santa, Polar Express activities, music, crafts, treats, and more at the location closest to their home. Come down in your favorite holiday pajamas to one of the following Santa in the City events:

Monday, December 5: Murrieta Youth Center
Tuesday, December 6: Vintage Reserve Park
Wednesday, December 7: Alderwood Clubhouse
Thursday, December 8: Antelope Hills
Friday, December 9: Copper Canyon Park

Holiday Toy and Food Drive

The City of Murrieta is grateful to provide an opportunity for the community to come together and provide new, unwrapped toys and non-perishable foods through its annual Holiday Toy and Food Drive. The Community Services Department will be on hand to take donations drive-thru style on Saturday, December 17, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the Community Center (41810 Juniper Street).

Place donated items in your vehicle’s trunk and enter the parking lot on Juniper Street across from Fire Station #1. Pop your trunk when you stop at the donation point, and staff will collect the items. All donated items will go to local food pantries and families in need within the Murrieta community.

Letters to Santa and Santa Hotline

Looking for other ways to experience the holiday spirit? The City's website has Santa templates on our website and a free number to give the man himself a ring with our Santa Hotline at (951) 461-6086! Both activities take place at your convenience, with the details on our holiday event webpage.

All events and activities are free to attend. For additional information about the City’s holiday activities, please refer to the City’s special events web page or contact staff at (951) 304-PARK (7275).

Murrieta Police Department

Holiday safety tips and a 5K to raise awareness about teen suicide

Holiday Safety Tips from Murrieta PD

The Murrieta Police Department wants to ensure that the community enjoys a fun and safe holiday season. Here are tips for keeping your home secure and staying safe while out and about in the community this holiday season.

❗️If you plan on traveling:

Don't post on social media about traveling out of town. Thieves will know you are not home.
Set your alarm if you have one.
Have a friend or neighbor keep an eye on your home while you're away. This includes picking up mail and newspapers and bringing in trash cans.
Put your lights and TV on a timer or use an app to schedule them to turn on when someone would typically be home.
Disable your garage door opener emergency release and lock the garage door.

❗️At home:

Request a signature for packages if possible.
Ask a neighbor to bring packages inside if you won't be home when you know something will be delivered.
Have items delivered to your work if possible.
Request in-store pickup if available.
Have items delivered to a PO box or U.S. Post Office location if you can.

❗️When shopping:

Never leave your purse or wallet unattended.
Save receipts and use one or two debit/credit cards for all purchases so you can easily track your activity (and check for fraud).
Lock vehicle doors.
Don't leave shopping bags in view inside your vehicle.
Be aware of your surroundings.

If you suspect something suspicious, whether at home or while out in the Murrieta community, don't hesitate to call Murrieta PD at (951) 696-3615.

5K with Murrieta PD and Lights for Life - Project 99

The Murrieta Police Department and Lights for Life (Project 99) have partnered to co-host a 5K run/walk to raise awareness about the negative consequences of teen suicide. The race is scheduled to take place near Town Square Park on Saturday, December 10. Additional information is available on their website.

Visit the Murrieta Police Department website for more Murrieta PD news.

Updates from the Murrieta Public Library

Library offers December events and a preview of spring programming

New Programming for December

The Library will be hosting new programming for all ages in December: The Children’s Department is showing “Smallfoot” at 6 p.m. on Friday, December 9, in the Library’s Garden of Verses. Patrons are invited to bring their pillows, blankets and chairs to this Movie in the Garden Event. Game On!, an afternoon of gaming for teens, is happening at 4 p.m. on Thursday, December 8. On Monday, December 5, adults can pick up a Holiday Family Kit at the Adult Reference Desk. These kits will be handed out starting at 5:30 p.m. Adults are also invited to wrap their holiday gifts between 3 – 4:30 p.m. at our Wrap It Up: Holiday Gift Wrapping event on Wednesday, December 14. Our Library for All program, an interactive program for adults with disabilities, will feature Cupcake Decorating on Monday, December 12 at 10 a.m. All events are held in the Community Room unless otherwise noted.

Spring Programming Preview

Spring programming at the Library has been finalized! Check out a preview of some of the wonderful events being planned for next year: The Children’s Department will have an “Art Studio” program January through March, and a “Touch a Truck” event in April. Adults can look forward to some informative legal workshops in February and March, as well as an acrylic painting class in April. Stay tuned for more information on these events and many more taking place at the Murrieta Public Library!

Stay Current

To stay current with what is happening at the Murrieta Public Library, sign up for the Library’s Newsletter at bit.ly/murlib. As always, staff are available to answer questions via phone Monday through Saturday during regular hours by calling (951) 304-BOOK.

City Streets Get a Makeover

Public Works Department improves some of Murrieta's busiest streets.

The City's Public Works team continues to be hard at work, ensuring a smooth ride on some of Murrieta's busiest roads.

Check out updates on important capital improvement projects that are currently underway:

Pavement rehabilitation on Murrieta Hot Springs Road between Madison Avenue and Alta Murrieta Drive: This road has now been repaved and restriped, with the final elements of the project being completed on schedule.
Pavement rehabilitation on Hancock Avenue between Las Brisas Road South and Murrieta Hot Springs Road: The team has begun work on Hancock Avenue. Most of this work will take place during the day, so please use an alternate route if possible.
Median improvements at the intersection of Murrieta Hot Springs Road and Madison Avenue: This work consists of modifying the existing raised medians and extending the dual left turn pockets. The project is in its final stages and should increase traffic flow and alleviate traffic congestion.

These projects should be completed by the end of the year and are currently on schedule. Please drive safely through construction areas.

For more information about this year's Capital Improvement Plan, visit the City's website.

Mark Your Calendar

Upcoming special events and public meetings

December Special Events

Donuts with Santa | December 3 | Event Details
Murrieta Tree Lighting Ceremony | December 3 |Event Details
Santa in the City | December 5 - 9 | Event Details
Lights for Life Project 99 5K | December 10 | Event Details
Toy and Food Drive| December 17 | Event Details

December Public Meet ings & Closures

City Council Meeting | December 6 and December 20
Parks and Recreation Commission | December 1
Planning Commission | December 14
Holiday Closure |December 26 - January 2

Meeting times and dates are subject to change. Please visit the City's agenda webpage for meeting details and full agendas.

Adult Recreation Program

Offering activities for those with different abilities

The City’s Alternative Recreation Program (“ARP”) offers activities for special needs and differently-abled adults 18 years and older at least once each month. Program activities include dances, potlucks, movies, field trips, and pool parties. Most activities take place at the Community Center on Fridays from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. There is a nominal fee of $2 per participant, but guardians or caregivers are free except for field trip admissions, where prices are to be determined.

On Friday, December 9, the annual “Holly Jolly Dance” social and holiday party will take place and promises lots of festive fun.

Economic Development Updates

Check out a new Murrieta business and make your holiday dollars go further.

Blaze Pizza and More Now Open in Vineyard Shopping Center

Looking for a convenient, healthy, and fun dinner during the holiday busyness? Blaze Pizza is now open in the Vineyard Shopping Center on Clinton Keith Road near the I-215. Check them out for freshly made pizza, salads, and friendly smiles!

Blaze Pizza is among a group of businesses now open at Murrieta's Vineyard Shopping Center near Costco. From hair and nail salons to new restaurants, there's a lot to check out in the Vineyard Shopping Center. So make sure to stop in, enjoy some tasty food, and welcome the new shops to Murrieta.

Grocery Outlet Now Open

We are excited to welcome Grocery Outlet to Murrieta! Stop by and check out the deals at this family-owned location every day between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. They are located at 39573 Los Alamos Road.

Make Your Holiday Dollars Go Further with the Murrieta Money Match Program

Let the holiday shopping season begin! Did you know your shopping can support local businesses and save you money by using our Murrieta Money Match program? Buy a gift card accepted at more than 70 Murrieta businesses, and the City of Murrieta will match your dollars with a bonus card of equal value!

Check out the Murrieta Money Match webpage to purchase the special gift card and view the list of participating businesses.

Cards are now available in $50 or $100 eGift card amounts. The $250 match gift cards sold out in record time, so make sure to purchase your Murrieta Money soon!

We love supporting our community, and thank you for supporting local businesses!

Join the Murrieta team!

Check out Jobs 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 jobs 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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