KEEP COOL AT THE FOLSOM PUBLIC LIBRARY

Stay cool during the upcoming heatwave at the Folsom Public Library.

With an air-conditioned environment and a wealth of resources, the Folsom Public Library offers a cool and comfortable refuge for residents seeking relief from the heat. 

The library is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays. Pets are allowed in the library meeting room only and must be in a carrier or on a leash. The library will be closed Tuesday, July 4 for the Fourth of July holiday. 

Multiple Sacramento County cooling centers are currently open. For the latest Sacramento County cooling center locations, dates, and hours, dial 2-1-1 or visit 211sacramento.org. If you are experiencing any heat-related medical conditions, call 911.

FUN WAYS TO BEAT THE HEAT

Cool off with the refreshing water features at one of the city’s three spray parks. The flume and creek water feature at Livermore Community Park and the splash pads at Kemp Park and Nisenan Park are open daily from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Please note that the water features may be closed intermittently throughout the season as needed for maintenance or repairs. Call 916-461-6601 for more information.

The Steve Miklos Aquatic Center is open for daily recreation swim from 1 to 5 p.m. The trained lifeguarding staff are always on duty during recreation swim. Guests can enjoy all the great amenities: the interactive play structure, diving boards, three pools, plenty of space to lounge in the sun or shade, poolside café, and the giant inflatable obstacle courses (not included with entry fee; requires purchase of a $3 wristband). The aquatic center is located at 1200 Riley Street; call 916-461-6640 for more information.

INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION REMINDER: KEEP IT SAFE, KEEP IT LEGAL

The City of Folsom is now enforcing stricter penalties for illegal fireworks usage. The Folsom City Council adopted a social host ordinance that levies $1,000 fines against property owners that either use or allow the use of illegal fireworks on their property. Calls for service increase dramatically on July 4, and emergency response resources are stretched extremely thin. During the holiday weekend, use 9-1-1 for emergencies only–like an active fire, injury, or an immediate threat to people or property.

KNOW THE RISKS

• The unsafe use of fireworks can cause severe burns, amputations, blindness, and even death. » Damaging fires occur when children use fireworks unsupervised by adults.
• Parents are responsible for any property damage or injuries caused by all fireworks.

KEEP IT LEGAL

• All legal fireworks in California are called Safe and Sane Fireworks and must bear the State Fire Marshal’s seal.
• Safe and Sane Fireworks may only be used and sold from noon June 28 through midnight on July 4.
• Any firework that goes up in the air or explodes is illegal and dangerous.

KEEP IT SAFE

• Always have a bucket of water to dispose of fireworks and leave them in the water overnight before disposing.
• Always have a hose connected to water available in case of fire.
• Do not use fireworks near dry grass or other flammable materials.
• Do not use fireworks while under a canopy, covered balcony, covered patio, or under a tree or bushes.

If you see or suspect illegal firework usage, email fireworks@folsom.ca.us, or submit a aequest via SeeClickFix.com/folsom.

Pets who are disturbed by thunder or other abrupt sounds are likely to find the Fourth of July fireworks terrifying. Here are some precautionary measures to keep your pets secure and calm during the celebrations:

• Keep your pets indoors: The fireworks display might be thrilling for you, but your pets are better off at home. Ensure they're inside and protect them from loud noises by keeping windows closed and drawing the shades.
• Provide company: If your pets are sensitive to loud noises, don't leave them alone while you're out celebrating. If possible, have someone stay with them. If you're home, maintain a calm demeanor and give them comforting pats and hugs to help soothe their anxiety.
• Consult your vet: If you feel that tranquilizing your pets might be the best course of action, consult with your veterinarian well in advance.
• Update ID tags and registration: Ensure all ID tags are securely attached to your pet's collar and display your must current contact information. Don't forget to update your microchip registrations and pet license information to aid in a quick reunion in case your pet does escape.
• Seek help from an animal behaviorist: If your pets suffer from noise-induced fears, consider contacting an animal behaviorist. With some positive reinforcement and behavior modification training, your pets could be fear-free by the next Independence Day.

This Fourth of July, let's ensure that the spirit of celebration extends to all members of our Folsom community, including our pets. Enjoy the festivities, and keep your furry friends safe and sound. Find more information about pet licensing and what to do if your pet goes missing on the City of Folsom website.

GROUNDBREAKING CELEBRATIONS FOR PROSPECTOR PARK AND FIRE STATION 34 

On Thursday, June 29, the City of Folsom broke ground on Prospector Park and Fire Station 34 – two highly anticipated projects in Folsom Ranch. 

The groundbreaking events mark significant milestones in the development of the planned community-focused recreational and emergency services facilities. Prospector Park is the first of nine parks in the Folsom Plan Area, and Folsom Fire Station 34 is the first of two planned stations.

Prospector Park will span 12 acres and feature a multi-use sports field, a lighted ball field, sports courts, picnic areas, nature areas, and a dog park. The play area will include dueling zip lines, roller slide, and 20’ rope climber. The park's design incorporates sustainable features to preserve the natural environment and encourage eco-friendly practices. Prospector Park is anticipated to be completed in summer 2024.

Future Fire Station 34, located at 3255 Westwood Drive, will be an important addition to Folsom's emergency response infrastructure. As Folsom continues to grow, the station will help ensure the community's safety by improving response times and expanding coverage. Equipped with modern facilities and advanced firefighting equipment, Fire Station 34 will enhance the city's ability to protect residents and property. The station will staff an Advanced Life Support Type 1 Engine and cross-staff a Type 3 Engine with three full-time firefighters daily.

REGISTRATION IS OPEN FOR NATIONAL NIGHT OUT 

National Night Out will be celebrated throughout Folsom and around the nation Tuesday, August 1. It may look like potlucks and ice cream socials, but National Night Out events bring neighbors and first responders together to help build a safer community.

Each year, Folsom police officers, firefighters, city officials, and hundreds of residents attend dozens of National Night Out events throughout the city.

Neighborhoods hosting celebrations are encouraged to register their National Night Out event by July 17 at www.folsom.ca.us/police. For more information or to request an application, contact Police Volunteer Coordinator Jessica Hess at 916-461-6516 or jhess@folsom.ca.us.

GREEN BIN PROGRAM TURNS ONE 

The City of Folsom’s Green Bin Program, introduced in 2022 to comply with SB 1383, has reached an important milestone as the city celebrates the program’s first anniversary.

Since the program’s inception, participation has steadily increased. In May, Folsom businesses diverted a record-breaking 27 tons of organics from landfills, marking the highest monthly commercial diversion to date. Since July 2022, Folsom residents and businesses have collectively diverted over 11,000 tons of organic material from the landfill. This diversion not only provides a valuable feedstock for compost production but also helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Residents of Folsom can benefit from the city’s commitment to sustainability. Free compost and mulch are available year-round at two locations: behind City Hall at 50 Natoma Street and at the Hinkle Creek Nature Trail, next to Fire Station 36 at 9700 Oak Avenue Parkway. To date, the city has distributed 800 tons of compost for household gardening and landscaping projects since the spring of 2022.

To support organics recycling at home, the Waste and Recycling Division continues to offer kitchen pails, bin labels, and educational recycling and composting workshops. Information regarding kitchen pail pick-up and educational events can be found on the city’s website event calendar.

Residents are encouraged to utilize the Green Bin for collecting food scraps during parties and gatherings. Remember that all food scraps, including meat, bones, eggs, bread, baked goods, melon rinds, and spoiled foods, should be placed in the Green Bin. Additionally, paper towels, popsicle sticks, toothpicks, skewers, and food-soiled paper also belong in the Green Bin.

Thank you for helping make the City of Folsom Organics Recycling Program a success! Learn more at www.folsom.ca.us/organics.

THE AMAZING VALLEY OAK TREE

Folsom's riparian corridors and grasslands are home to the magnificent valley oak (Quercus lobata). Whether strolling along a nature trail or seeking serenity in a quiet park, these trees welcome visitors with their twisted branches and dark green leaves.

Valley oaks play a vital role in our local ecosystem, serving as a habitat for native birds, pollinators, and small mammals. Additionally, their acorns offer nourishment to numerous local wildlife species. These oaks are among the largest in North America, typically reaching heights of 50 to 80 feet.

Native oak trees are excellent choices for planting in the Folsom region. They are well-adapted to our dry climate, drought-tolerant, and versatile in various soil conditions. Moreover, they grow rapidly and provide ample shade.

Folsom residents can get free landscape assessment and up to 10 free shade trees delivered to a home or business, thanks to a partnership with the Sacramento Tree Foundation.

Learn more.

COMMUNITY SERVICE DAY PROJECT IDEAS DUE JUNE 30

The 10th annual Community Service Day takes place Saturday, September 16. This major citywide event mobilizes thousands of volunteers to complete dozens of service projects throughout Folsom that make a positive, lasting impact. Do you have a great idea for a Community Service Day project? The deadline is June 30 to submit your idea for consideration.

The Neighbors Helping Seniors Initiative

This unique category of Community Service Day projects aims to help local seniors in need of a helping hand. Projects can include gutter cleaning, weeding and pruning, painting, and other similar exterior maintenance and repair tasks. Submit a Neighbors Helping Seniors project application by August 1 if you or a loved one can use a helping hand.

Find more information about Community Service Day and submit project ideas at folsomcommunityservice.org.

LOVE TO RIDE? JOIN THE SUMMER CHALLENGE!

We’re keeping the momentum of May is Bike Month going by encouraging members to log as many trips as possible through July 28. Those entering the contest have a chance to win a $50 e-gift card!    

• 1 trip = 1 entry into the raffle (no limit on the number of entries).    
• Log your trips for carpool, vanpool, bike, transit, Amtrak, and walking; not limited to commutes. Learn how to log your trips here.
• Join the Summer Challenge on SacRegion511.org to make your trips eligible.
• Sync your Love to Ride app with SacRegion511. Go to your profile, click edit profile, click connected apps, and follow the instructions to quickly sync your rides.

Log your trips after walking to a local coffee shop, carpooling with a neighbor to get groceries, or biking to dinner. The Summer Challenge winner will be announced the week of July 31. Contact Frank Aceves at team@50corridor.com with questions about the Summer Challenge.

PHOTOGRAPHY CLASS: TAKING MORE THAN SELFIES

Are you new to photography and want to learn how to take eye-catching photos that really stand out? Come and learn hands-on about photo composition, technical methods, and the secrets to getting superior results with your photos. Digital SLR cameras, digital point-and-shoot, and even cell phones are welcome. The three-session class is for ages 10 to 17; class meets from 9 a.m. to noon Wednesday through Friday, July 5-7, at the Folsom Community Center. Class fee is $79 for Folsom residents. Register online or call 916-461-6601 for more information.

FREE WORKSHOP: BACKYARD BOUNTY, EDIBLES IN EVERY GARDEN 

Grow the perfect fruits and vegetables in your backyard garden at a free workshop Thursday, July 6.

The City of Folsom Water Conservation Division hosts “Backyard Bounty: Edibles in Every Garden” from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Folsom Community Center, 52 Natoma Street, Folsom. The workshop covers basics for beginners and fresh ideas for experienced gardeners – from seed to table.

Space is limited. To reserve your seat, call 916-461-6177 or email waterconservation@folsom.ca.us.

THE CITY OF FOLSOM HOLIDAY CLOSURES JULY 4

City administrative offices will be closed Tuesday, July 4 in observance of Independence Day. For urgent city issues, call 916-461-6400. Call 9-1-1 for life-threatening emergencies.



• Garbage service will be provided as usual; please place your cans curbside by 6 a.m. on your regular day of service.
• Transit services through the Folsom Stage Line operated by SacRT will not have service.
• The Folsom Public Library is closed.
• The Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary is closed
• The Andy Morin Sports Complex is closed
• The Steve Miklos Aquatic Center is open for recreation swim from 1 to 5 p.m.
• The FIDO Field Dog Park will be open from 7 a.m. to one hour after sunset.
• The Folsom Skate and Bike Parks are open from 1 to 5 p.m.
• The Folsom Senior Center, Folsom Art Center, and Gallery at 48 Natoma are closed.

City of Folsom Communications Director

Christine Brainerd | cbrainerd@folsom.ca.us | 916-461-6013 (office)

Get connected. Stay informed.

City of Folsom | 50 Natoma Street | www.folsom.ca.us