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live locally TOW N OF DA N V I L L E QUA RT E R LY N E W S L ET T E R
Message from the Town Council
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s we look forward to what the new year will bring, we see so many exciting projects and opportunities. Chances to bring our community together, share experiences, and enjoy what makes Danville special. We are proud to say that this spring we will start the ambitious Downtown Master Plan Catalyst Project. Along Hartz Avenue from Linda Mesa Avenue to School Street, this investment in our Town will focus on community gathering spaces and safety improvements to make the area even more pedestrian friendly. Part of the Downtown Master Plan involves a focus on cultural arts, which continues to be in focus for the Town. Learn more about the Village Theatre and Art Gallery on Page 5, including a bit of history and a preview of our next gallery exhibition. You can also read about new laws that will affect the Town’s planning and finances, and learn how you can engage in the Town’s legislative efforts. Get involved by reading about these issues on Page 4.
Shoppers in Downtown Danville
What’s Inside... Find the Fun at the 2024 Rec Expo
Update on New Laws in Effect for 2024
Improvements Coming to Downtown
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At the December 5 Mayor’s Installation and Community Awards, we recognized individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to our community. Read more on Page 10, then take a look at businesses new to our community on Page 11.
Find the Fun at Rec Expo A
re you dreaming of warm summer weather? Join Auggie Snowman and his friends as we go on a flurry adventure to start planning for summer! Join us for the Town’s 14th Annual Recreation Expo & Open House Saturday, February 3 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event offers fun for all ages, with adults getting info for summer planning while kids enjoy crafts, games, and activities. Begin at the Danville Community Center for fun winter wonderland activities, then head over to the Village Theatre for a “Frozen”
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sing-along. Finish the scavenger hunt at the Danville Senior Center for some snowball cornhole and then stop by one of Danville’s many restaurants and enjoy a nice family lunch. This event is a great opportunity to meet Town Staff and specialty class instructors who will be overseeing many of the Town’s summer camps and programs. Also stop by the Danville Facilities table to see what venue is available to rent for your next party or performance. Stay tuned for more information at www.danville.ca.gov.
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT:
News briefs from the Town of Danville
CLANCY PRIEST Chief Technology Officer Sometimes ensuring Town staff have the latest technology to deliver services means planning for advanced equipment and infrastructure. Other times it means getting your hands dirty working in a junction box after a big storm to get offices back online. Since 2016, all aspects of Town staff technology needs have been managed by Chief Technology Officer Clancy Priest. Clancy attributes his success to having a great team behind him. By overseeing the Town’s tech while also keeping an eye on trends, he helps other staff meet residents’ needs efficiently. Clancy is an engineer by education and a problemsolver by trade. He has worked in technology in one capacity or another since 1983, seeing many trends come and go. When he started out, just getting machines to connect was the major challenge — now computers connect so easily that network security is the greatest issue. His extensive knowledge was integral in making the Town’s transition from an aging building to the new Town Offices as smooth as possible, with very little downtime in customer service. With a retirement from the Town planned for March, we thank Clancy for all he has done “behind the scenes” to meet the needs of staff and residents.
BUSINESS SURVEY OPEN NOW Small business owners, we want to hear from you! The Town Economic Development team is working on new resources and support for Danville-based businesses, and there is a short survey open now. The information gathered in this survey will help shape our 2024 plans, and there is also an option to provide an email address for response and future communications. Participate today at www.danville.ca.gov/bizsurvey.
NEW ART PROJECT IN DANVILLE Next time it rains, take a walk around Downtown Danville for some sidewalk surprises. The Town’s latest public art project, Sidewalk Stroll: A Rainworks Project, only shows when it rains! Using special water-resistant spray, the Town’s cultural arts team placed messages on sidewalks around the downtown area that only appear when the ground is wet. There is a scavenger hunt to find them all and name that tune! Find out more at www. danville.ca.gov/arts.
FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM Did you know the Town manages two official Instagram accounts? One is for general Town information, activities and news, and one is for Danville Police Department news, events and updates. By following these two key accounts, you can stay up-to-date on all of the latest Town information. The Town account is @DanvilleCAgov and the police account is @DanvilleCApolice. Find out more about the many ways to stay connected with the Town at www.danville.ca.gov/stayconnected.
ADUs EXPAND OPTIONS Many homeowners are exploring Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) due to recent State laws easing local zoning restrictions. These small units share property with a main home, and the Town has developed an information website as part of its Garden Cottage Program, which offers a variety of free permitready ADU plans. Discover more at www.danville.ca.gov/adu.
TOWN TALKS WITH THE MAYOR: FEBRUARY 16 Join the Mayor in discussing the latest Town news. Topics for this live online quarterly show will include revitalizing Downtown Danville and an update from Police Chief Allan Shields. Mark your calendars for Friday, February 16 at 10 a.m. More information at www.danvilletowntalks.org.
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New Laws in Effect for 2024 E ach year, members of the state legislature introduce thousands of bills to create legislation that becomes law. At the start of the 2023 Legislature session 2,632 bills were introduced—the largest number of bill introductions in a single session over the last decade. More than 900 bills successfully passed through the legislative process and were forwarded to the Governor to sign into law or veto. At the close of the 2023 Legislative session, the Governor signed 890 bills into law (85%) and vetoed 156 bills. While the business of the legislature during the 2023 session continued to focus on achieving affordable housing, legislative trends also included providing support to the state’s homeless population, public safety initiatives to curb controlled substance and fentanyl use, climate resiliency, and innovation and technology. Both individually and as part of the Tri-Valley Cities Coalition, the Town’s advocacy efforts are aimed at protecting and promoting Danville’s best interests, driven to continue to uphold the Town mission of delivering superior services, and an increasing level of state involvement and regulation in areas that have previously fallen within local control. The following are a list of Assembly bills (AB) and Senate bills (SB) signed into law by the Governor in effect as of January 1, 2024 that have a direct impact on Danville: AB 1572 Potable water: nonfunctional turf. This bill prohibits the use of potable water for the irrigation of nonfunctional turf on municipal and other agency-managed properties. This bill calls for a phase-in ban, requiring local agencies to comply by January 1, 2027. The Town maintains approximately 10-15 acres of nonfunctional turf. Preliminary review of costs for removal, retrofit, and replacement of non-functioning turf could exceed $1 million per acre. This bill does not apply to single family residential property.
SB 4 Planning and zoning: housing development: high education institutions and religious institutions. This bill allows religious institutions to build lowincome housing projects on property they own regardless of the zoning for the property. Development projects that meet specified conditions per the bill language are considered a “use by right” — meaning the project does not require a conditional use permit, planned unit development permit, or other discretionary local government review — and the project is exempt from CEQA review. SB 423 Land use: streamlined housing: approvals: multifamily housing developments. This bill would expand the provisions of SB 35, extending the streamlined approval process to January 1, 2036.
Example of nonfunctional turf
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THE STATE LEGISLATURE CONVENED FOR THE 2024 LEGISLATIVE SESSION ON JANUARY 3. RESIDENTS CAN GET INVOLVED AND ARE ENCOURAGED TO: • Attend the Town Legislative Committee meetings the fourth Tuesday of every month at 9 a.m. • Tune in to the Town Council Legislative updates during the Town Council meeting on the third Tuesday of every month at 5 p.m. • Sign up for Legislative updates on the Town website. • Contact State Legislators to voice your opinions on legislation impacting the Town: Senator Steve Glazer, representing the 7th District: 925651-4007 Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan, representing the 16th District: 925328-1515 For more information regarding the Town’s legislative advocacy efforts, contact Management Analyst Cat Bravo at 925-314-3377 or cbravo@danville.ca.gov.
Usha Shukla – Strike It Rich
GALLERY FEATURES DIVERSE PERSPECTIVES ON ABSTRACT ART Senior Variety Show
Entertainment Abounds at the Village Theatre M ovies, music, and maybe a little magic...find it at the Village Theatre and Art Gallery. Located in a historic building at 233 Front Street, the Village Theatre brings rich cultural arts experiences to Danville.
While so many communities are losing their local theaters, Danville manages a busy year-round program schedule at the former Grange Hall. Local groups rent the theatre for performances, and the Town hosts a variety of entertainment options, including movies, kids’ entertainers, and live music from classical to country. The building has been part of the community since 1873, and it continues to be a gathering hub. The Grange Hall was built by a group of local farmers, and was a community space used for town meetings, parties, dances, and church services. More than 150 years later, members of the community still meet at the theatre, whether they’ve rented the venue to show a movie to friends and family (the building was also once a movie theater) or they are watching their little ones perform with a dance troupe.
Just outside of the theatre is the art gallery, featuring works by regionally known artists across a wide array of media. With a new exhibition quarterly, in addition to public art exhibitions, the gallery is a destination for Bay Area art lovers. Patrons of the theatre also get to enjoy a show before the show as they peruse the gallery. The performances at the theatre and the exhibitions at the gallery are curated to engage the community, with shows across the spectrum of tastes and backgrounds.
UPCOMING EVENTS • January 13: Preschool Performances: The Bubble Lady • January 19: Classical Music Corner: Laudami Ensemble • January 20-March 22: Gallery Exhibition: Driven to Abstraction
Global perspectives converge over a fondness for the abstract at the Village Theatre Art Gallery. The upcoming exhibition Driven to Abstraction opens January 20 and will be on display until March 22. This exhibition consists of artwork from five diverse female artists: Barbara Landberg, Usha Shukla, Loreta Landucci, Colleen Gianatiempo, and Valerie Boyar. While they each come from different cultural backgrounds (Polish, Indian, Jewish, Irish and Italian), they all enjoy abstract visual art and are inspired by nature and local landscapes. These artists use a variety of techniques in their artwork including watercolor, acrylic, oil, alcohol inks, mixed media and collage. The exhibition opens with a brunch from 11a.m. to 1 p.m. January 20. The opening event is free and open to the public. The gallery is open Wednesday-Friday Noon-5 p.m., Saturday, 11 a.m.-3p.m., as well as Monday and Tuesday by appointment only. For more information, please visit www.danville.ca.gov/arts.
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Seating Opp Improvem
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Prospect Park Plaza
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he Town of Danville’s historic downtown, the heart of the community, is a product of three decades of careful planning. The original Downtown Master Plan was adopted in 1986, supported by policies to accommodate commercial growth, respond to evolving community needs, and retain the feel of Danville’s uniqueness through showcasing its historic roots. The intent of the Danville 2022 Downtown Master Plan Update is to carry this vision into the future while adapting to changing community needs brought about by the onset of the pandemic. Specifically, it introduces new strategies that respond to the highest priority needs: more community gathering space with enhanced ambiance; stronger connections to and through the downtown; improvements that enhance pedestrian safety, primarily
through reducing vehicle speeds; and opportunities to play, recreate, celebrate and appreciate art and culture. Consequently, the update focuses on a set of nine primary implementation phases. The initial phase, called the Catalyst Project, includes creating safety features at five intersections on Hartz Avenue (Linda Mesa Avenue to School Street). The Town will also create two new public gathering spaces, one in what is now a seating area near Starbucks. This is officially designated as Prospect Park Plaza in the Danville 2030 General Plan, and will be enhanced with additional seating, lighting, and a small stage. There will also be enhancements to the parking area between the Village Theatre and Town Meeting Hall back to Church Street to allow the space to still be used for parking, but also flexibility to close the area to traffic for special events. Article continues on Page 8.
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Clocktower Shopping Center
Primo’s Pizza
Hartz Ave. & Diablo Rd. Intersection Improvement
600 Hartz Driveway
portunity & Intersection ment at Linda Mesa Ave.
Village Theatre Plaza Improvement (Flexible Space)
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Hartz Ave. & School St. Intersection Improvement
Hartz Ave. & Church St. Intersection Improvement Prospect Park Plaza & Intersection Improvement
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continued from Page 7... The phasing of the project will be determined somewhat by the construction plan outlined through the bidding process, and the Town will provide updates to residents and business owners along the way. Updates will be provided through the Town’s project page at www. danvilletowntalks.org/ downtown-master-plan, as well as through in-person meetings and visits with local businesses. As with any construction project, everyone wants to have it finished, but no one wants to live through the actual construction. You also don’t know what you may find along the way that might affect your progress. The Town plans on taking the project in phases to minimize impact on local businesses and people passing through the area. The project is out for bid now, and construction is expected to begin in late spring 2024. The contractor will also use the initial project areas to determine conditions they may find elsewhere. “With streets that are more than 150 years old, even with surveying and research, you are bound to find some unexpected elements,” said Tai Williams, Assistant Town Manager. “We’ll work with our construction partner to discover and mitigate those challenges as we go along, to keep the project moving forward.”
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Ride Smart, Ride Safe:
UNDERSTANDING ELECTRIC BIKES AND SCOOTERS
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he popularity of electric bicycles (e-bikes) and scooters (e-scooters) may provide an efficient means of transportation, but it’s crucial to remember that with this exciting new technology comes the responsibility to prioritize safety for yourself and others. Before you hop on and zoom off, let’s explore the different types of e-bikes and the regulations that apply to both e-bikes and e-scooters, ensuring a responsible and enjoyable ride.
Class 1 and 2 e-bikes follow the same rules of the road as traditional pedal bikes. Riders of Class 3 e-bikes must be 16 years of age or older and wear a helmet.
E-bikes are categorized into distinct classes, each defined by specific features and regulations designed to prioritize rider safety. Traffic lights, signs, and signals apply to all road users, including those on traditional pedal bikes, e-bikes, and e-scooters.
Riders of e-scooters must:
The three classifications of e-bikes are: • Class 1: Pedal assist only and no throttle; power maxes out at 20 mph. • Class 2: Throttle-assisted; power maxes out at 20 mph. • Class 3: Pedal assist only and no throttle; power maxes out at 28 mph.
E-scooters are defined as any twowheeled device that has handlebars, has either a floorboard that is designed to be stood upon when riding or a seat and footrests in place of the floorboard, and is powered by an electric motor.
• Have a valid driver’s license or learner’s permit, • Carry no passengers, • Not operate the scooter on a sidewalk, and • Wear a helmet if they are under 18 years old. Understanding the classifications and laws is pivotal to ensure a secure and legal riding experience that contributes to the overall well-being of all road users.
Sports Field and Dog Park Improvements Happening Now E ach year, generally from December 1 to February 28, there is a moratorium closure for Town-maintained natural grass sports fields and the Canine Corral Dog Park at Hap Magee Ranch Park. This closure allows the grass to recover from heavy usage, and allows necessary projects to be completed more efficiently. Funding for these projects comes in part from the Lighting and Landscape Assessment District, a Town program that levies a certain amount annually from each property owner. The annual sports field and dog park “refresh” is a direct result of residents supporting the Town through this propertyrelated assessment. This year, Town maintenance crews are working on a number of projects, in addition to letting grass areas recover. Baseball and softball
fields will be graded and prepped for spring, and any low spots or holes in turf will be repaired. There will also be grass seeding as needed as well as some repairs and improvements to irrigation systems. In exchange for a few months of closures, the community enjoys well-maintained facilities and improved amenities. For sports field and dog park closure updates, visit www.danville.ca.gov/fields.
SANDBAG STATION SET UP TO ASSIST IN FLOOD PREVENTION As we enter the rainy season in Northern California, the Town of Danville sets up a sandbag station each winter to help residents prevent flooding on their properties. The station is located in the parking lot of the Town Service Center at 1000 Sherburne Hills Road. The Town provides sand, sandbags and a shovel in a do-it-yourself setting where residents can fill sandbags for personal use. There is a limit of 20 bags per household to ensure that there is an adequate supply for the rainy season. This sandbag station will be in place until the spring when the threat of rain has subsided. For further information regarding the sandbag station, contact Maintenance Services at 925-314-3450 or visit www.danville.ca.gov/ stormprep.
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Community Members Honored at Annual Awards Event
Staff from The Thrift Station
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anville’s 42nd annual Mayor’s Installation and Community Service Awards ceremony was held December 5, presided by 2023 Mayor Robert Storer. Karen Stepper was selected to serve as Mayor for 2024 and Dave Fong will serve as Vice Mayor. The Town Council recognized Commissioners who left office in 2023 and presented service awards to Commissioners who reached milestones for years of service. The Town Council honored the following individuals and organizations for their contributions to the community:
MICHAEL K. SHIMANSKY COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD
Mark & Leslie Graham
For their extensive service and dedication to improving the lives of others through Guide Dogs for the Blind.
The Bounty Garden at Hap Magee Ranch Park: Michael & Sandra McDonald
For coordinating the expansion of the garden to 43 beds and overseeing 75 volunteers to plant, tend and harvest the organic produce for the food insecure.
2023 Danville Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors
For their dedication to developing, promoting and representing local businesses and enhancing the quality of life in the Danville community.
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Daniella Monge
For harnessing her bilingual skills to serve as a vital community translator, bridging communication and cultural gaps, supporting the special needs population, and making a lasting impact through her determination, dedication and compassion.
The Thrift Station
For playing an important and impactful role in the Danville community through the successful devotion of volunteers and essential contributions to Discovery Counseling Center.
Graciela Kerr
For actively contributing to the community, and the value and culture of her high school, by teaching and encouraging leadership skills through her fearless positivity.
THE DANVILLE AWARD
Joseph A. Calabrigo
For his leadership and awe-inspiring dedication to the Danville community, serving since 1993 as the Town’s third Town Manager and employed with the Town since 1985.
Employee Parking Permit Program Gets Customers Closer to Businesses I n 2010, the Town wanted to address a common issue for downtown businesses: How to provide employees with nearby parking for their shifts without violating short-term parking restrictions meant to accommodate customers? The solution was the Employee Parking Permit Program, which offers low-fee annual parking passes for employees to park in certain nearby zones beyond the short-term parking window. The fees for employee permit parking have remained similar for more than 13 years, with a fee waiver during the pandemic. As the Town reinstates the
parking permit fees for 2024, staff are also launching a new online permit purchasing system, making it easier for business owners and employees to participate.
The program divides available permit parking into three zones, with a twotiered fee structure. Zone 1 is more central to Downtown, and zones 2 and 3 are areas further east and north. As of January 1, employee parking permits are $50 for zones 2 and 3, and $25 for zone 1. These fees are back to what they were when the program launched in 2010, and the annual fee allows employees and business owners to get to work
Open in Danville
TOWN WELCOMES NEW BUSINESSES
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he Town’s Economic Development team is excited to introduce “Open in Danville,” a new initiative designed to extend a warm welcome to new businesses. At the heart of this effort is the Town’s commitment to foster growth in the local economy. This program provides an opportunity for Town staff and elected officials to formally greet new merchants, ensuring they feel supported and well-equipped for success in Danville. Local businesses rely on strong connections and patronage from the community, so the more support businesses receive when they open, the more likely they are to do well. The Town is also conducting a small business survey to gather feedback from all business owners (see Page 3), to help open lines of communication. Be sure to check out the New Businesses to Support section on this page and stay tuned for more updates on “Open in Danville” by following the Town’s social media accounts: @DanvilleCAgov.
without having to worry about short-term parking. The program also frees up parking for customers, driving our Downtown economy.
With this intention, the Danville Police Department requires proof of employment when purchasing a downtown employee parking permit. The permit is a sticker that must be affixed to the employee’s windshield. Creating an account and purchasing a permit is simple. More information is available at: www.danville.ca.gov/parkingpermits.
NEW BUSINESSES TO SUPPORT: Alka’s Brow Studio 181 Hartz Ave. | 925-222-1777 CB Fit 607 San Ramon Valley Blvd. www.cbfit.com/danville Danville Kitchens 9000 Crow Canyon Rd., Ste. P www.danvillekitchens.freshbytes.io The Great Greek Mediterranean 405 Railroad Ave. www.thegreatgreekgrill.com/danville-ca Isola Osteria 100 Railroad Ave., Ste. E www.isolaosteriadanville.com Namo Indian Cuisine 480 San Ramon Valley Blvd., A2 www.namoindiancuisine.com Sultan Kebab & Falafel 11000 Crow Canyon Rd., Ste. G www.sultankf.com Turf and Supply Company 442 Hartz Ave. www.turfandsupplyco.com
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Presorted Standard US Postage Paid Danville, CA Permit 71
Town of Danville 500 La Gonda Way Danville, CA 94526-1740
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IT’S COLD OUTSIDE, BUT EVENTS ARE HEATING UP Escape those winter blues and join us for fun winter events for all ages.
Do you have a preschooler at home? Well, get excited because the Bubble Lady returns to the Village Theatre for a special two performance event on Saturday, January 13. Be amazed by a variety of feats and tricks, all having to do with bubbles. Tickets are $7 per person and can be purchased at www.danville.ca.gov/tickets. Treat your senses to the classical sounds of Bach, Vivaldi, Froberger and others with a musical duet featuring the violin and harpsichord. Classical Music Corner Featuring the Laudami Ensemble performs at the Village Theatre on Friday, January 19. Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for students, and can be purchased at www.danville.ca.gov/tickets. Are you dreaming of warm, summer weather? Join Auggie Snowman and his friends as we go on a flurry adventure to start planning for summer! Join us for the Town’s 14th Annual Recreation Expo & Open House Saturday, February 3. See Page 2 for more information.
The Danville Senior Center is offering a variety of winter events from family trips to senior breakfasts. Most events are for adults age 55 and older, and registration is required; available at www.danville.ca.gov/recguide. • January 15 & February 12: Senior Bingo • January 17: Breakfast with Friends • February 9: Hearts & Pizza • January 9 & 16, February 7 & 20: Senior Tea Dances • Tuesdays: Buzz Sessions • Various Dates: Adult & senior Fitness Classes
UP CO M I N G C O M M U NIT Y EV EN TS Visit www.danville.ca.gov/calendar for more information. DRIVEN TO ABST RACTION OPENING RECEPTION
YOUNG AT ART: AMAZING ABSTRACT ART
Saturday, January 20, 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Village Theatre
Thursday, February 15, 3:45–5 p.m.
Featuring the work of five unique artists with diverse backgrounds who have found commonality in their love for abstract visual art. KIDS’ NIGHT OUT FOR AGES 5–10 Friday, February 9, 6:30–10 p.m.
Gather with your friends and have the little ones wear their favorite pajamas and bring their sleeping bag and pillow.
Join us for a tour of the current art exhibit and then create an abstract painting with a squeegee and a cool cut paper collage. KIDS’ DAY OUT AGES 5–10 Tuesday, February 20, 9 a.m. –3:00 p.m.
S TAY C O N N E C T E D
www.danville.ca.gov
Join our Recreation Department staff for arts & crafts, games, and activities. TEEN DAY OUT FOR AGES 11–14 Tuesday, February 20, 9 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
Join our Recreation Department staff for arts & crafts, games, and activities.
nextdoor.com/danville--ca Nixle (text your zip code to 888777)