Live Locally Fall 2023 Edition

live locally

TOWN OF DANVILLE QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER

Message from the Town Council

As we start to see the leaves turn color throughout Town, we know it’s also time to start preparing for winter storms. The visible cues are a good reminder to look around and make sure that our homes and property are ready for rain. We do the same thing around Town properties and facilities, and you can read more about the Town’s preparation for winter storms — and find out what you can do as well — on Page 9.

You’re also going to want to make time to visit the new playground at Oak Hill Park. With towering slides, musical play features, and fun for kids of all ages, the new playground is an investment in our quality of life. There are more photos and details on Page 2.

Keeping all of our parks maintained is one goal of the Lighting and Landscape Assessment District, an annual property tax assessment which funds maintenance. On Page 8, learn more about this important district.

And while it may be fall, we’re planning ahead with events and fun through the end of the year. Dress up your furry friends for Howl-O-Ween, drop off a letter to Santa, and much more. Turn to Page 10 and the events list on the back cover for details.

Oak Hill Park Playground

Sing, Swing & Slide:

MORE WAYS TO PLAY AT OAK HILL PARK

There’s a new playground in Town, with new ways to spin, climb, dig, swing, slide, and even make music. The playground at Oak Hill Park incorporates features not found in other Danville parks and includes musical and accessible play components. A ribbon cutting event was held in August, with kids exploring the new equipment right alongside their favorite adults. Construction began in February on this capital project, with a contract budget of $1,025,000. The new playground replaces 20-year-old equipment, and includes areas appropriate for 2- to 5-year-old and 5- to 12-year-old age groups.

The most popular feature at the playground is an extra-high tower with a spiral slide. Kids (of all ages) can also work their way up to the big tower by starting on a smaller tower with a shorter slide. With musical elements, accessible play stations, and opportunities for intergenerational play, the new playground areas represent a significant investment in quality of life for Danville residents.

The Town Council and members of the Parks, Recreation and Arts Commission gathered for the ribbon cutting ceremony to officially open the playground which is open daily from sunrise to sunset.

Oak Hill Park is located at 3005 Stone Valley Road in Danville.

EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT: MIKE KALFOS Park Maintenance Supervisor

On July 9, the community lost Mike Kalfos, who served the Town for nearly two decades and left a lasting impact on the quality of life in Danville. Mike had a personality that brought joy to others and loved working for the Town.

Mike started in 2005 as a Maintenance Worker, and over his career rose through the ranks to Park Maintenance Supervisor. He contributed directly to people’s enjoyment of parks, most recently working on the Oak Hill Park Playground Replacement Project. Mike also cared for the more than 1,500 roses at Osage Station Park, and led classes for the community on rose pruning and maintenance. He also worked with the Sports Alliance, facilitating great athletic experiences for participants in youth and adult sports leagues.

Mike’s commitment to the community went beyond parks. Once he came upon a distressed care worker who had a flat tire and needed to get to a patient — Mike stopped his truck and changed her tire so she could be on her way.

Mike leaves behind a loving wife and two daughters, whom he loved dearly. We join his family in mourning the loss of Mike Kalfos.

TOWN COMPLETES STORM DRAIN PROJECTS

The Town’s Capital Improvement Program includes drainage improvements at Starview Drive, Loch Lomond Way, and Westridge Avenue. These projects will mitigate impacts from sediment and debris during flood events by upgrading existing storm drainage systems and “trash racks,” which are filtering structures near drain inlets. The project is funded in part by the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, a federal program administered by FEMA, and is expected to be completed by early November.

PLANNING FOR AN IMPROVED DOWNTOWN

The Downtown Master Plan Catalyst Project has completed design development and has now moved into the construction plan development stage. Once this stage is concluded the project will move into the construction bidding process.

The Catalyst Project includes the first phase of the Downtown Master Plan, and includes enhancements along Hartz Avenue between Linda Mesa Avenue and Church Street. Enhancements at the Linda Mesa Avenue, Diablo Road, Prospect Avenue, Church Street and School Street intersections will enlarge pedestrian spaces and improve safety while reducing vehicle speeds. The estimated $5 million project also includes a new convertible Village Theatre Plaza public gathering space. The Catalyst Project is being partially funded by Local Fiscal Recovery Funds received through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).

News briefs from the Town of Danville

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

The 2023 California Legislative Session officially closed September 14, the last day for bills to be passed out of each house. At the start of the session, more than 2,600 bills had been introduced, focusing on key issues facing the state including affordable housing, public safety, and climate resiliency. Following the legislative process, the Governor will have until October 14 to consider the bills passed out of both houses, to veto or sign bills into law.

The Town’s Legislative Committee follows legislation that is identified as a priority by the Town Council through the Town’s legislative framework, and the Tri-Valley Cities Coalition. The Danville Town Council continues to engage directly with State Legislators to advance solutions, addressing regional housing needs while fighting to retain local control and community character. A detailed recap of the 2023 Legislative Session and the bills the Town of Danville advocated for can be found in the October Legislative Committee report. For the report and more information, visit www.danville.ca.gov/legislative.

TOWN TALKS WITH THE MAYOR OCTOBER 27

What is a Housing Element? What’s happening on Front Street? Find out during the next Town Talks with the Mayor. This live online quarterly discussion brings you the latest on Town projects and priorities, including an update from our Police Chief. Mark your calendars for Friday, October 27 at 9 a.m. More information at www.danvilletowntalks.org.

Renovations & Multi-Sport Skate Park in Store for DIABLO VISTA PARK

The design and construction drawings are well underway for playground renovations and a multi-sport skate park at Diablo Vista Park. The final concept was based on feedback from the community and the Parks, Recreation, and Arts Commission.

The project includes a multi-sport skate park (approximately 11,000 square feet) in an underutilized location just south of the playground. The project will bring play elements and skate features unique to Danville with opportunities for all ages and accessible play.

The project is expected to be constructed in 2024. It’s partially funded by the Town and with federal funding provided by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). And for fans of the “snake” feature, rest assured it is part of future plans!

THE GREAT CALIFORNIA SHAKEOUT

All it takes is one minute to practice a disaster readiness drill. Simple and quick. Although the Great California Shakeout drill is for an earthquake, it’s a great annual reminder to be prepared for many different disasters such as wildfires, landslides, floods, and severe weather. On October 19, 2023 at 10:20 a.m., everyone can Drop, Cover, and Hold On; no matter where you are, no matter whom you are with. Schedule a different day or time if this date is not the most convenient for you.

This is a great opportunity to review your disaster kit and home plan and remind yourself how to stay informed and receive information. Help with community readiness by spreading the word with friends, family, and co-workers to encourage them to take the one minute and practice Drop, Cover, and Hold On. The one minute could help you feel more confident about being prepared! Find out more at shakeout.org.

Prioritize Safety: YOUR GUIDE TO EFFECTIVE CRIME PREVENTION

In the realm of personal and community safety, one principle stands tall: Crime prevention is non-negotiable. If criminals find easy targets in a certain area, such as unlocked cars and valuables in plain sight, they will strike more frequently. To bolster our security and that of our community, adopting crucial safety practices can yield unparalleled outcomes. These common sense tactics from the Danville Police Department are key to empowering ourselves against potential threats:

Lock Up, Stay Safe: Whether for a moment or an hour, always lock your vehicle and secure all doors and windows in your home.

Light the Path: Illuminate dark areas around your home with motion sensor lights, discouraging unauthorized activities.

Stay Alert, Stay Safe: Remain vigilant in public spaces; consider group travel, especially during the night.

Valuables Out of Sight: Keep temptations at bay by concealing your valuables to deter theft.

Keys, Guard Them Well: Avoid leaving your car fob or keys within your vehicle or garage — a simple but crucial step.

Home Security: Bolster your home’s security with locked doors, windows, and consider advanced security systems.

Strength in Unity: Enhance security by connecting with neighbors and engaging in community watch programs.

Protect Personal Data: Exercise caution online to outsmart identity thieves and safeguard your private information.

Empower yourself, cultivate safety, and contribute to a piece of resilient community fabric. These practices aren’t just steps — they’re proactive choices for a secure future.

ANNUAL REPORT 2022–2023 DANVILLE

Recreation, Arts & Community Service

Households Served

1,541 Classes offered

15,038 Participants

4,415 Households

Library

56 Open hours, 6 days each week

66,402 Items in Danville Library collection

22,873 Patrons

Response Services for Seniors

4,490 Senior meals distributed

3,092 Senior participants

Social Connections

524 Volunteered for programs

329 Facility rentals

596 Picnic rentals

51 Bocce ball court rentals

6 Gallery exhibits

2 Temporary public art projects

This Annual Report snapshot gives residents a quick overview of the various service areas and types of work that occured during the past year.

General Government

120 Public meetings held

$605,000 In grant and state funding secured

Economic Development

72 Grants awarded to Danville-based businesses

Community Outreach

127,903 Social media views of storm-related messages from the Town in January

Administrative Services Development Services

Transportation

54 Optimally timed and coordinated traffic signals, signage, and striping

1,725 Hours of traffic signal maintenane/projects logged

36 ADA-compliant, touchless pedestrian push buttons installed

8 Flashing yellow signal heads installed

11 Radar speed display signs installed

4 Electronic No Right Turn on Red signs installed

$2,927,522 In transportation grant funds procured

3 School Safety Education/ Enforcement Weeks launched

2 Valley-wide Street Smarts

Community Bicycle Festivals held

Engineering

49 Streets resurfaced

6.3 Total miles of new street resurfacing

Information Technology

1,286 Support tickets completed

Human Resources

26 Regular employees onboarded

154 Temporary employees onboarded

Finance

4 Budget hearings on the 2023/2024 budget

20 Consecutive years recognized for outstanding financial reporting from the Government Finance Officer’s Association

Services

Public Safety

33.9% Decrease

TOWN OFFERS EASY EXCURSIONS FOR SENIORS

The Danville Senior Center is proud to offer a variety of day trips each quarter. The exciting destinations for fall include Fleet Week, Apple Hill and Ghiradelli Chocolates, the Lion King at the Orpheum Theatre, and the “Taste of the Valley” trip where participants will sample almonds, olive oil and different vinegars. Registration typically includes transportation on a private charter bus and admission or entry to each trip location. The trips vary in activity level and duration, so seniors can select the offerings that would be most comfortable for them. These activities are for adults age 55 and older, and registration is available at www.danville.ca.gov/ recguide.

Senior Center staff are also available at 925-3143430 for questions or registration assistance.

Working Together for a More Beautiful Danville

Homeowners in Danville have a unique role in preserving the special character and quality of life in our Town. They have a part in making sure streets are well-lit for pedestrians and motorists, keeping our parks well maintained and ready for play, and keeping major roadsides nicely landscaped. Supporting these nuances of a well-managed Town is something homeowners can be proud of, but something they may not be completely sure how it all gets done. The many hours and projects that contribute to making Danville a nice place to live start with funding from the town-wide Lighting and Landscape Assessment District (LLAD).

An assessment district is a funding mechanism that levies an annual assessment against each property owner in the district. This assessment shows on a property tax bill — not just for homeowners, but for commercial and other non-residential property owners as well. The assessment varies by benefit zone, and the amount is based on a number of factors, including proximity to the amenities supported by the assessment. Since the Town’s incorporation in 1982, this funding has been critical in supporting the high level of maintenance expected by residents in Danville.

Funds from assessment districts are restricted in a few ways, to ensure transparency and community benefit.

First, the funds are only used in the areas paying the assessment fee: your assessment benefits your area. Second, the funds can only be used for the intended purpose, and are kept separate from the Town’s general fund. Third, changes in the assessment must be approved by affected property

owners, and property-related assessments must be proportioned fairly for each homeowner.

This steady source of funding means that the community knows they can rely on streets that are well lit, parks that are well maintained, and roadsides that are well kept. It’s these details that help make Danville a great place to live, and the LLAD means that each homeowner is literally invested in their community.

The LLAD covers all properties in Danville, broken up into zones that fund different benefits. The purpose is to have property owners in a specific zone paying to maintain amenities that are a direct benefit to them. The rates for the LLAD have not increased since 2003, and annual assessments for each home range between $166.50 and $305.80 each year.

While the LLAD revenues have not increased in 20 years, expenses for maintenance have. Since 2003, maintenance costs have increased nearly 55 percent, while LLAD revenues have increased just under 4 percent. This means maintaining Town amenities at the expected level of quality puts more strain on the general fund, reducing funds available for other programs. With maintenance-related costs increasing after the pandemic, the Town is researching ways for the LLAD to keep pace with inflation and needs of the community.

Residents and property owners will hear more about LLAD assessments in the future, as the Town Council continues to study future costs and maintaining quality of life in Danville. For information on the 2023–24 annual Town budget, including revenue sources, see Page 7.

Maintaining Private Creeks for the Community

As we all learned from last winter’s storms, the peaceful creeks that run through Danville can cause damage if not kept in a healthy state. While the Town manages an ongoing storm drain maintenance program (see sidebar), the creeks managed by the Town are actually a very small percentage of the total running through Town. The majority are the responsibility of private homeowners, homeowner’s associations, and the Contra Costa County Flood Control District. For most creekside properties in Danville, the property line extends into the creek.

The creeks in Danville are an important part of our regional watershed, and properly maintaining creeks on your property helps protect our community. Creeks create a peaceful oasis for people and wildlife to enjoy, and help stem erosion. Keeping our creeks healthy is a shared responsibility, and the Contra Costa County Flood Control District offers an abundance of information on maintaining private creeks.

Their basic guidelines include:

• Remove debris and foreign objects

• Remove tall vegetation such as shrubs, pampas grass, and bamboo.

• Don’t clear-cut slopes, as low ground cover prevents erosion.

• Remove tree limbs that hang within two feet of the top of the bank.

• Keep rip-rap and retaining walls in good condition.

Private creek maintenance is regulated by County ordinance, and homeowners have the responsibility to prevent damage that may occur through neglect of creek maintenance. To see a map of creek responsibility in Danville, along with links to the Contra Costa County Flood Control District resources, visit www.danville.ca.gov/stormprep. Danville residents can also contact the Town’s Code Enforcement Officer, Claudia Ray, with any questions about creek responsibility: cray@danville.ca.gov.

PREPARING STORM DRAINS FOR WINTER: HOW YOU CAN HELP

As part of an ongoing storm drain system maintenance program, the Town cleans and clears miles of roadside ditches, culverts, creeks, and storm drain inlets each fall in preparation for winter storms. The work is done to help ensure that the waterways and drainage locations are clear once the winter rains begin.

There are approximately 4,700 storm drain inlets in Danville. The current fiveyear maintenance program is to inspect and maintain 500 of these drain inlets on an annual basis, however last year over 700 were cleaned. You can help keep storm drains and culverts clean as you are cleaning up around your home by making sure yard waste is safely disposed of in green bins instead of left on the street or in ditches. Debris and yard waste in the roadway can cause damage to storm drains, potential traffic hazards, and even increased rodent activity. For more information on storm preparation, contact Town of Danville Maintenance Services at 925-314-3450 or visit www.danville.ca.gov/ stormprep.

Spooky Fun for Fall & Holiday Events for All

We have a variety of fall themed activities and holiday events coming up for pets and people. Whether you visit one or all, there is something for everyone at these Town of Danville events.

This October 21 is for the dogs with the Howl-o-ween celebration, which includes a costume contest, a pet parade and plenty of photo opportunities. Non-furry family members can register now for our Spooktacular Celebration and join us for a ghoulish evening October 26, filled with all kinds of festivities including arts and crafts, face painting, games, trick-ortreating and lots of fall fun. At the Village Theatre and Art Gallery October 27, do the “Time Warp” while you watch the cult classic Rocky Horror Picture Show (R) and get in the spirit with our themed costume/fashion walk.

As we get ready for another appearance by St. Nick, stop by the Danville Community Center or the Danville Library from November 27 through December 8 to drop off your letters to Santa. His elves will make sure you get a letter back by December 24. On December 7 we will be hosting a very special tween-only Holiday Hangout with tons of festive games and activities. On December 8 and 9 it’s A Very Charlie Brown Christmas with holiday crafts and photos with Santa. For our adults and seniors, we have our Holiday Brunch coming up on December 12. Come celebrate the Holidays with a festive meal and good company.

Pre-registration is required for some of these events. See www.danville.ca.gov/recguide for more information or to register now.

In the last exhibition of the year, the Village Theatre Art Gallery will feature works by members of the Lamorinda Arts Alliance. The goal of the artist collective is to increase knowledge and appreciation of the arts in Lamorinda and surrounding East Bay communities. The Lamorinda Arts Alliance was founded in 1994 and is composed of artists living in the East Bay. The artists of Brilliance describe their combined collection of artworks in this show as “full of intensity, sparkle, dazzle, and luminosity.” The goal of the group is to display a selection of media that when seen all together, creates a dynamic, uplifting show for all to enjoy. This exhibition is set to open Thursday, November 2 with an artists’ reception from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The exhibition will run through December 15. For more information, visit www. danville.ca.gov/arts.

Judy Feins, Lafayette Reservoir from Rim Trail, 2019, oil.

Creative Ways to Encourage Local Shopping

The Town supports businesses yearround in creative and practical ways. One way is through the Business Promotion Program, which is an annual program to promote shopping local. There are two ways businesses can participate in the Business Promotion Program. Eligible Danville businesses can apply to receive grant funds from the Town for collaborative events and experiences that get new shoppers into their stores.

Interested in public service?

The community benefits from these fun events, such as the Museum of The San Ramon Valley Shops ‘n’ Hops, and the Danville Area Chamber of Commerce Sip ‘n’ Stroll.

This program also makes it affordable for businesses to highlight their holiday offerings in the Danville Picks Holiday Gift Guide (arriving in November). This guide features unique holiday gifts, and highlights the many gift-giving options found right

here in Danville. By participating in these unique offerings and using the gift guide to fulfill shopping and gift-giving needs, the local economy gets a boost and so do schools, Town services and infrastructure. Watch for the gift guide at www.danville.ca.gov.

NEW BUSINESSES

TO SUPPORT:

Blossom and Root Kitchen 411 Hartz Avenue www.blossomandrootkitchen.com

The Town is looking for volunteers to serve on Town commissions. If you are a Danville resident and interested in the Heritage Resource Commission or County Connection Citizens’ Advisory Committee, consider contributing your expertise and interest to serve your community. See the Town website at www.danville.ca.gov/commissionrecruitment for applications and a list of responsibilities. Applications are due November 13, and terms begin January 1, 2024. For more information contact City Clerk Marie Sunseri at 925-314-3401 or cityclerk@danville.ca.gov.

Bungalow on Rose Coastal Thai 254 Rose Street www.bungalowonrose.com

Stiletto’s Piano Bar 148 E. Prospect Road www.stilettosdanville.com

x2o Studio 7 Railroad Avenue www.x2ostudio.com/studio/danville

StretchVibe 802 Sycamore Valley Road West www.stretchvibe.com/danville

UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS

JUBILEE ROAD IN CONCERT

Saturday, October 7, 7 p.m.

Village Theatre

A harmony-filled, uplifting evening of fresh arrangements of classic songs we all know and love.

RUN FOR EDUCATION

Sunday, October 8, 6:30–9:30 a.m. www.srvef.org

A family event for all runners and walking enthusiasts at this 5K/10K.

HEALTH & WELLNESS DAY

Saturday, October 14, 11 a.m.–3 p.m.

Town Green

This day is a celebration of health and wellness and will include businesses and non-profit organizations.

WALK-TOBER

Friday, October 20, 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.

Osage Station Park

Seniors can walk a 5K for your health and then celebrate with a BBQ lunch.

SPOOKTACULAR CELEBRATION

Thursday, October 26, 4–7:30 p.m.

Danville Community Center

Join a ghoulish evening filled with arts and crafts, games, face painting, trick-ortreating and more.

ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW SCREENING

Thursday, October 27, 7 p.m.

Village Theatre

Join us and get ready to do the “Time Warp” again with this cult classic.

HOWL-O-WEEN

Saturday, October 29, 10 a.m.–Noon Festivities include a costume contest, a pet parade and a photo opportunity.

BRILLIANCE EXHIBITION: ARTISTS’ OPENING RECEPTION

Thursday, November 2, 5:30–7:30 p.m. Village Theatre Art Gallery

Brilliance features artwork full of intensity, sparkle, dazzle, and luminosity.

MURDER MYSTERY DINNER

Friday, November 3, 5:30–8:30 p.m.

Danville Senior Center

Join us for a Hollywood themed whodunnit full of thrills and suspense

VETERANS DAY CELEBRATION

Friday, November 10–Sunday, November 12, • Veterans Memorial Building

Honor our veterans with patriotic commemorations.

CLASSICAL MUSIC CORNER: THE ALBANY CONSORT

Friday, November 10, 7 p.m. Village Theatre

Enjoy an orchestra of violins, harpsichord, recorders and more.

LIGHTING OF THE OLD OAK TREE

Friday, November 24, 5:15–8 p.m. Downtown Danville

Cherished family celebration to light the Old Oak Tree for the holidays.

SANTA’S MAILBOX

Monday, November 27–Friday, December 8 • Danville Community Center & Danville Library

Children can write a letter to Santa to be mailed to the Jolly ol’ fellow himself.

SENIOR HOLIDAY BRUNCH

Tuesday, December 12, 10 a.m. Danville Senior Center & Danville Library

Enjoy a hot meal, good company and a holiday movie.

MAYOR’S INSTALLATION AND COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARDS

Tuesday, December 5, 6 p.m. Village Theatre

Celebrate community members being honored for service to Danville.

HOLIDAY HANGOUT

Thursday, December 7, 4–5:30 p.m. Danville Community Center

Fun tween holiday games, activities and more! Pre-registration is required; ages 8-12.

ELF WORKSHOP

Friday, December 8, 4–7 p.m. & Saturday, December 9, 9 a.m.–Noon Danville Community Center

Get your little elves into the holiday spirit through crafts and photos with Santa.

DANVILLE FARMERS’ MARKET

Saturdays, 9 a.m.–1 p.m.

Railroad Avenue Municipal Parking Lot Support your local community market while enjoying fresh produce and unique artisan goods.