MEMORANDUM - City of El Cerrito
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MEMORANDUM TO: Mayor and City Council FROM: Karen Pinkos, City Manager DATE: February 9, 2022 SUBJECT: City Manager’s Update I’d like to say a huge “Thank You” to our community for their compassion, understanding, and patience as our entire City team went through a difficult January. First, our public buildings, lobbies, and counters have been closed to the public since January 12, 2022 thanks to the COVID-19 omicron variant. Several City staff members (myself included) tested positive in the first couple of weeks of January and were required to quarantine, and throughout the County extra precautions were taken due to the extreme contagiousness of omicron. The closure has been helpful for allowing staff and the public to be separated so as not to add to the omicron spread, and has allowed for staff who are able to work remotely to do so. City programs and services have continued, with City Hall services available by appointment and via online and email. We have tried our best to maintain service levels and have worked hard to accommodate community members however we can. We had originally planned to reopen on February 1, but extended two weeks to be safe, and at this time we are slated to reopen on February 14, 2022. Some buildings will have limited hours, so please check our website at www.el-cerrito.org for details. City Hall’s hours will revert to the schedule in place before the closure, which is Monday through Thursday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. I will continue to review this schedule in light of the continuing pandemic and taking the Contra Costa County Health orders into consideration. Again, we appreciate everyone’s patience and are grateful for your understanding as we keep working to get through all the impacts of the pandemic. I also want to thank the community for the wonderful outpouring of support that our entire El Cerrito family received upon our loss of El Cerrito Police Department Officer Jerrick Bernstine on January 9, 2022 in a tragic car crash on his way home from work. Officer Bernstine was laid to rest on January 24, 2022 following a moving, poignant funeral service held at El Cerrito High School on January 22, 2022. We received condolences and support from all over the Bay Area, and the El Cerrito Police Department would especially like to thank the agencies that helped cover the City while Department members attended the funeral and burial services, including Richmond Police Department, San Pablo Police Department, Pinole Police Department, Hercules Police Department, Kensington Police Department, Albany Police Department, California Highway Patrol,
and the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Department. The City team pulled together as well, particularly the Fire, Public Works, and Recreation Departments and our El Cerrito Volunteers in Police. The photo below shows our El Cerrito Fire Department saluting Officer Bernstine’s funeral procession as it passes on the way to the burial at Rolling Hills Memorial Park. While there are no words anyone could possibly say to alleviate the sorrow of Officer Bernstine’s loss to his family, friends, and co-workers, I have been heartened and comforted by the way our community and our staff team has come together to comfort and help each other through these difficult times. Our hearts remain with Officer Bernstine’s family, and his memory will continue to be a blessing. Many community members have asked about donations in honor of Officer Bernstine. The El Cerrito Police Employees Association has set up a fund in his honor, and all donations will be given to Officer Bernstine’s family. You can find the information at this link: www.porac.org/fundraiser/in- memory-of-officer-jerrick-bernstine-fund/. Though our City staff team has been through a tough month, the way that our community has supported us and each other has been hopeful and encouraging. Coming together through challenges is another example of our resilient and compassionate community that I’m so honored to be a part of. Again, I want to express my sincere gratitude to all of you, and look forward to all that is to come. Please continue to be safe and be well, and take care of yourselves and each other. Karen Pinkos City Manager
CITY MANAGEMENT Public Building Counters and Lobbies To Reopen on February 14, 2022 Due to the COVID-19 omicron variant surge that impacted City staff, public counters and lobbies for most buildings have been closed to the public since January 12, 2022. These will reopen to the public beginning on Monday, February 14, 2022. Some buildings may have varied or limited hours, so please check the City’s website at www.el-cerrito.org for details and hours. City services are still available online or by appointment, and more details and a staff directory are available at www.el-cerrito.org/covid19. El Cerrito Minimum Wage Increased 4.9% to $16.37 on January 1, 2022 On January 1, 2022, the City’s minimum wage increased from $15.61 per hour to $16.37 per hour. The City Minimum Wage Standards require all employers to pay their employees no less than the minimum wage for all hours worked in the City of El Cerrito, regardless of where the business is headquartered. (Employees who work less than two hours a week within El Cerrito are exempt.) Each year, the wage will increase based on changes in the local Consumer Price Index. Employers and workers with questions about the El Cerrito Minimum Wage Ordinance can visit el- cerrito.org/wages or contact Alexandra Orologas, Assistant City Manager, at aorologas@ci.el- cerrito.ca.us or at (510) 215-4302. COVID-19 Information – Lifting of Most Indoor Mask Mandates; No-cost COVID-19 Home Test Kits Now Available for Every Household; Free N95 Masks; Updated Information for Schools and Childcare; Vaccine/Booster Update On Wednesday, February 16, 2022, Contra Costa County will lift universal mask requirements for most indoor public settings. Unvaccinated individuals over age 2 will still be required to wear masks in all indoor settings. This change aligns with the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) decision to let expire the statewide mask requirement from December 15, 2021 during the latest COVID-19 surge. Indoor masking will still be required for everyone, regardless of vaccination status, in public transportation; health care settings; congregate settings like correctional facilities and homeless shelters; long-term care facilities; and in K-12 schools and childcare settings. To ensure that all Americans have access to timely COVID-19 testing, the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services and the U.S. Postal Service have launched COVIDtests.gov, a new site for requesting free home test kits by mail. Every address in the United States is now eligible to receive four free tests by signing up at the site, which is also a helpful resource for finding nearby COVID-19 testing and vaccination clinics, and information about insurance reimbursement for purchasing home test kits.
Home test kits, also known as rapid antigen tests, are available over the counter at pharmacies.
While the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests provided at community clinics are the most
accurate for detecting COVID-19, antigen tests are the best choice for finding out quickly if
someone is contagious right now. Antigen tests produce a result in about 15 minutes, rather than
the days it can take for a laboratory result from a PCR test. They are useful for determining
whether a quarantine or isolation period can be shorted, and before visiting to help protect
people at high risk of serious illness from COVID-19.
To learn more about how to get home test kits, or make a testing appointment in Contra Costa
County, visit: https://www.coronavirus.cchealth.org/get-tested. For those who have tested
positive for COVID-19 or are a close contact to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19,
please visit: https://www.coronavirus.cchealth.org/for-covid-19-patients.
The Biden Administration is making 400 million free N95 masks available for distribution via
pharmacies and community health centers. Participating pharmacies include CVS, Walgreens
and Kroger grocery stores. Each individual will be allowed to take up to three masks. The
program is expected to be fully up and running by early February.
Contra Costa has issued updated information for Schools and Childcare. To access this
information, visit: https://www.coronavirus.cchealth.org/for-schools-and-childcare.
All people ages 5 and older are now eligible to get a safe, effective and no-cost COVID-19 vaccine.
Everyone ages 12 and older should also get a booster for added protection. You can contact your
healthcare provider or local pharmacy for a booster dose. Appointments through Contra Costa
Health Services (CCHS) are recommended and can be made online at
https://covidvaccine.cchealth.org/COVIDVaccine/ or by phone at 1-833-829-2626 , Mondays
through Fridays from 8:00am to 6:00pm. People without appointments are accepted as time and
vaccine supply allows.
Vaccines for Kids: https://www.coronavirus.cchealth.org/vaccine-for-kids
Local Pharmacies Providing Vaccines for Children: https://www.vaccines.gov/search/
For information about pharmacies and other providers that offer COVID-19 vaccine to the public,
visit the County’s Get Vaccinated site at: https://www.coronavirus.cchealth.org/get-vaccinated.
Most providers will require appointments.
February 9, 2022 2
CITY CLERK
Recent City Council Meeting Highlights
December 21, 2021 (Special Meeting)
• Closed session (no reportable action)
December 21, 2021 (Regular Meeting)
• Approved Letter of Support for WCCUSD Older Adult Program
• Authorized continuance of remote meetings (AB361) through January 20, 2022
• Authorized Urgent Repairs of Public Safety Building Roof and City Hall Server Room Air
Conditioning System
• Received a Presentation on the Committee on Aging Workplan
• Held Public Hearing for 2022 East Bay Sanitary Garbage & Organic Waste Collection and
Post-Collection Rates and Integrated Waste Management Fees
January 18, 2022 (Regular Meeting)
• Authorized continuance of remote meetings (AB361) through February 20, 2022
• Authorized Continuation of Emergency Work for Public Safety Building Roof Repair
Tuesday, February 1, 2022 (Regular Meeting)
• Received Quarterly Cash and Investment Report
• Received presentation from the Recreation and Community Development Departments
• Received Quarterly Budget Update
Saturday, February 5, 2022 (Special Meeting)
• Council held a Priorities and Goal Setting Session
Tuesday, February 8, 2022 (Special Meeting, not televised)
• Council held interviews for Boards, Commissions, and Committees
Upcoming City Council Meeting(s) (held via Zoom)
Tuesday, February 15, 2022 at 7:00 p.m.
• Consider revised Code of Conduct for Advisory Members
• Public Works Department Update
Tuesday, March 1, 2022 at 7:00 p.m.
• Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR)
• Mid-year Budget Adjustments
Agenda materials and public comment instructions are available online at www.el-
cerrito.org/CouncilMeetingMaterials as well as video archives. For more information, please
contact the City Clerk at cityclerk@ci.el-cerrito.ca.us or (510) 215-4305.
City Boards, Commissions, and Committee Vacancies
While the annual deadline may have passed, interested residents are still encouraged to apply
for Boards, Commissions, and Committees. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis and
will remain on file for a period of one year for any unexpected vacancies that may arise.
Attendance at two of the last three meetings is required prior to applying. For more
February 9, 2022 3
information, please visit the City’s website at www.el-cerrito.org/commissions or contact the
City Clerk at cityclerk@ci.el-cerrito.ca.us.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Building Permits
For the month of December, 120 building permits were issued, 54 permits were
“finaled” (e.g. closed out) and 149 new permit applications were received.
Currently, the application processing for building permits requiring plan check is
approximately 30 days from the date a complete application is submitted. Over
the Counter permits are available virtually through the eTrakIt system. Please
note that City Hall is currently closed to the public due to the COVID-19 surge, but
staff remains available by phone, email or appointment.
New Development & Project Updates
729 Kearney Street: In Fall 2021, the Planning Commission and Design Review
Board approved a permit for a new day care center. The project will be located
on a 0.23-acre vacant site with approximately 7,500 square foot two-story
building and an adjoining outdoor play area for pre-kindergarten students that
are 18-month-old to five years old. The Building Division received a building
permit application in December which is currently in plan check review.
Harbor Freight - 11048 San Pablo Avenue: The building permit to begin tenant improvements was
issued in January 2022. The City is working with the contractor to conduct inspections. We
anticipate that tenant improvements will be completed within 6 months.
6115 Potrero and 11335-41 San Pablo Avenue: The mixed-use project 63-unit with ground floor
commercial space that includes a 2,900 square foot brewery and 2,400 square foot restaurant
with outdoor seating is undergoing review. Staff expects the Planning Commission to review the
project this Spring. For information about this or other major projects, check out www.el-
cerrito.org/majorprojects.
Neighborhood Preservation (Code Enforcement)
11965 San Pablo Avenue (old Taco Bell site): On January 4, 2022, an early morning fire caused
significant structural damage that resulted in a total loss. After an assessment, demolition started
on January 24, 2022 and finished within two days. Debris removal and cleanup are currently in
progress.
10290 San Pablo Avenue (old Chamber of Commerce site): On January 5, 2022, a demolition
permit was submitted to the Building Division in preparation to construct a 54-unit multi-family
building. Reviews are currently underway, and demolition is anticipated to begin in February
2022.
February 9, 2022 4
Planning Commission/Design Review Board/Zoning Administrator Update
Residential Architectural Design Review (RAD) - The Planning Division has
received an application for a 640 square foot, two-story addition at 7442
Terrace Drive. The application review period began on January 25, 2022,
and will end on February 8, 2022. Interested neighbors are encouraged to
contact the Planning Division at planning@ci.el-cerrito.ca.us or (510) 215-
4330 to discuss any questions or to facilitate viewing of the plans during the
review period. After the review period ends, the owner may apply for a building permit.
On February 16, 2022, the Planning Commission will consider a Conditional Use Permit to
establish development standards for fences, retaining walls, and overhead landscape features at
7901 Cutting Blvd.
On February 16, 2022, the Planning Commission will consider a proposed 494 sq. ft. addition to
a Duplex (Two-Family Dwelling) that requires a Conditional Use Permit for expanding a legally
nonconforming Duplex use in the RS-5 zoning district (Chapter 19.27 and Chapter 19.34, El Cerrito
Municipal Code) at 6710 Donal Avenue.
For more information on any of these projects, please contact the Planning Division at
planning@ci.el-cerrito.ca.us.
New Business Activity – Coming Soon!
The UPS Store, located at 11465 San Pablo Avenue (across from Safeway), is planning to open in
February and will offer shipping, packing, printing, and notary services.
Antonio’s Garage, located at 11847 San Pablo Avenue, Unit B, is slated to open in March 2022
and their services will include general automotive repair.
Two new businesses at Peppermint Tree Plaza, located on San Pablo Avenue between Central
Ave and Lincoln, look forward to welcoming customers this spring. Keep a look out for a new
pasta restaurant opening at 10172 San Pablo Avenue (previously Nana Deserts). Super Slice is
taking over the pizza oven at 10180 San Pablo Avenue (formerly Armadillo's Pizza).
The Joint Chiropractic, located at 11450 San Pablo Avenue - Suite 400 (near Safeway), is looking
to open this month.
Authentic El Cerrito, the second approved cannabis business, will be in the former Batteries +
Bulbs shop at 10770 San Pablo Avenue. Applications for both design review and building permit
were submitted and review is underway by staff. Visit www.el-cerrito.org/cannabis to learn
more.
February 9, 2022 5
Affordable Housing Sustainable Communities
In February 2021, the California Strategic Growth Council issued a Notice of Funding Availability
for the Round 6 Affordable Housing Sustainable Communities (AHSC) Program. The purpose of
the AHSC Program is to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emission through projects that implement
land-use, housing, transportation, and land preservation practices. With $808 million available in
funds, the largest in program history, the maximum eligible AHSC award amount is $30 million.
Both the Community Development and Public Works Departments worked closely with BRIDGE
Housing (the non-profit developer), and BART to jointly apply for $27 million under the Transit-
Oriented Development designation to support the Mayfair Affordable project located at 11690
San Pablo Avenue. This 69-unit affordable housing project was entitled in August 2017, along
with 156 market-rate units at 11600 San Pablo Avenue. Since receiving its entitlements, the City
Council authorized a predevelopment loan of $350K and another $500K was leveraged through
HUD’s Hope VI Main Street Program. On January 26, 2022, the Strategic Growth Council awarded
Mayfair Affordable $27 million in funding for TOD toward affordable housing, sustainable
transportation infrastructure, transit-related amenities and programs, as listed below. In Round
653 applications were submitted and 37 awards across 29 jurisdictions were committed:
Funding Category Amount Agency Approved Uses
Affordable Housing $17.2M BRIDGE 67 affordable housing units
ranging from extremely low to
very low incomes
Sustainable Transportation $3M City Funding to support the El Cerrito
Infrastructure del Norte TOD Complete Streets
Improvements
Project
Sustainable Transportation $5M BART Funds to purchase a new fleet of
Infrastructure the future BART rail car(s)
Transit Related Amenities $1.3M BART Assist with new fare gates at del
Norte Station
Other Programs $403K BART Purchase of transit passes for
project residents
The AHSC grant will support the El Cerrito community in many ways by advancing much needed
housing affordability and further improving resident access to integrated public transit, walking
and biking while reducing GHG emissions. It also provides the project with its largest financing
source as BRIDGE awaits other applications determinations under review by Contra Costa County
(expected to be released this spring). Based on the current project schedule, BRIDGE expects to
apply for building permits in Winter 2022 - Spring 2023, begin construction Fall-Winter 2023 with
project completion in Winter 2024 - Spring 2025. To receive project updates, please subscribe to
the Community Development eNews at www.el-cerrito.org/CommDev.
February 9, 2022 6
Affordable Housing Resources
February 2022 Affordable Housing Opportunities – Click here for
a list of all Bay Area Counties (Courtesy of Openhouse)
Home Match, Contra Costa County - Available Rooms Catalog -
Feburary 2022 (Courtesy of Home Match)
Please visit www.el-cerrito.org/affordablehousing for additional
listings.
California COVID-19 Programs
Renters/property owners who need assistance with unpaid rent,
help is available through the CA COVID-19 Rent Relief Program -
Housing is Key. Visit www.housingiskey.com or call 833-430-2122.
Homeowners who may have fallen behind on housing payments
due to COVID-19 financial hardship should visit the California Mortgage Relief Program website
here.
El Cerrito Eviction Moratorium
The City of El Cerrito’s Temporary Eviction Moratorium was adopted on March 25, 2020 and will
remain in place through the duration of the City’s Local Emergency Declaration. Residential and
commercial tenants financially impacted by COVID-19 who can demonstrate loss of income or
revenue will have 6-months to repay unpaid rent with the payment period beginning on May 1,
2022. Visit www.el-cerrito.org/COVID19 for more information or www.housingiskey.com for
rental assistance.
Residents are encouraged to connect with the Contra Costa Housing Services Collaborative for
housing services, including tenant/landlord counseling as well as fair housing to County residents
at no cost. For legal consultation/representation, please contact Centro Legal at
CCTR@centrolegal.org or (510) 437-1554.
COVID-19 Rapid Response Program
Richmond Neighborhood Housing Services continues to offer
community support through their COVID- 19 Rapid Response
Fund. This program assists single-parent households with minor
children, seniors 65 and above, college students and men of
color who can demonstrate a COVID-19 financial hardship. Single
parent households and seniors may qualify for grocery gift cards
or support with unpaid utility bills. College students may qualify for support with textbooks fees,
and men of color can receive support with unpaid DMV tickets. For additional details, please visit
www.richmondnhs.org/rapid-response-fund/ or click here to access the application.
February 9, 2022 7
California Association of Realtors Housing Affordability Fund: Applications open February 1,
2022
Richmond Neighborhood Housing Services is administering
the Housing Affordability Fund supporting first-time
homebuyers to realize their homeownership dreams. The
program helps first-time homebuyers bridge the affordability
gap by providing them with up to $10,000 in closing cost
assistance that is fully forgiven with no repayment. Each grant is provided to low-to-moderate
income (120% area median income and below) first-time homebuyers who utilize the services of
a CA REALTOR®. Applications will be available beginning February 1, 2022. Program criteria,
frequently asked questions, and the application form can be viewed at www.richmondnhs.org.
First-Time Homebuyer Education for Contra Costa Residents
On February 19 and 26, 2022 from 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., ECHO Housing is hosting a series of
two workshops that will help you determine if you are ready for homeownership. Learn how to
create a budget, repair credit, and become a successful homeowner. This is a virtual event and
registration is available here or by visiting www.echofairhousing.org.
FIRE
Calls for Service
The Fire Department responded to a total of 340 calls for service in December. Total calls for the
calendar year were 3,762 which is over an 8% increase over 2020. Total recap of all the calls in
2021 are as follows:
1. Fires: 314
2. Explosions/Ruptures: 1
3. Medicals: 1,248
4. Hazardous Conditions: 144
5. Service Calls: 845
6. Good Intent: 987
7. False Alarms: 223
Total: 3,762
• The total fire loss for 2021 (in dollars) was $649,450.00, which is a 63% drop over 2020
• Total value of property protected was worth $101,090,128.00
• There were 22 deployments out of county for a total of 48 personnel working over 8,300
hours supporting the State Master Mutual Aid Agreement by responding to many of the
wildfires this past fire season
February 9, 2022 8Structure Fires
There has been an increase in the number of structure fires over the last month, fortunately with
low property loss and no injuries. On December 20, 2022, a fire was reported in the deli at
Safeway. The Fire Department contained the fire to the deli case with minimal damage. January
4, 2022, an early morning fire at the old Taco Bell was reported, which fortunately led to the
vacant building finally being torn down. December 27, 2022, a structure fire was reported on the
1300 block of Devonshire. The fire was contained in the area in the floor around the fireplace
where its hot embers had fallen through poor masonry joints. On January 21, 2022, the Fire
Department responded to the 1300 block of Brewster Drive for a vehicle fire that was the result
of an accident involving a police pursuit. The flames impinged on a house and caused moderate
damage to the exterior and one window.
Battalion Chief Appointment
The Fire Department is pleased to announce the appointment of Charles (Chase) Beckham as a
Battalion Chief, who began his role on Monday, January 3, 2022. Chase most recently worked at
Cal Fire at the rank of Captain. During his 21 years at Cal Fire, he was assigned to the Northern
Region Office of the State Fire Marshal in their Land Use Planning Program, which works with
local governments to address the risk of wildfire for existing land uses and new
developments. Chase brings to El Cerrito his years of diversified firefighting experience in both
wildland and city-based operations, vegetation management practices as well as his knowledge
and skills and will be a great asset to the Department and the City. He will be assigned to A-Shift
and will be taking over the Fire Marshal duties and overseeing Fire Prevention.
U.S. Marines Toys for Tots Program
This year was an exceptional year for the Toys for Tots program. El Cerrito and Kensington
resident’s donations filled over 24 boxes of toys that were delivered and distributed out though
various programs through the Marine Corps.
POLICE
Calls for Service
The El Cerrito Police Department (ECPD) handled 1,250 calls for service in November. This
averages out to over 40 calls for service each day. To learn more about the types of crimes ECPD
investigates on a weekly basis, sign up for our blotter at www.nixle.com.
February 9, 2022 9PUBLIC WORKS
Take AC Transit’s Survey About Bus Stops
AC Transit is currently evaluating bus stops and
wants to hear from you ! They are always looking for
ways to improve the rider experience and bus stops
are no exception. Fill out their survey to share your
thoughts. Your insight will help guide AC Transit
decisions and shape the future of their bus stops.
Please take the survey here:
https://www.actransit.org/node/4636
2021 Sidewalk Repair Project – Construction
Construction will soon begin to repair sidewalk that has been damaged by the roots of City
street trees at six (6) sites along San
Pablo Avenue. The work will be in
front of the following addresses:
10344, 10360, 10468, 10794, 10767
and 11550 San Pablo Avenue. These
locations were prioritized for
permanent repair based on several
factors including severity of the
sidewalk damage, location on a
street identified as a high-volume
pedestrian route, proximity to
schools and other public facilities,
and type of repair.
The project is funded by SB 1 Local
Streets and Roads Program funds.
The City has contracted with JJR
Construction to complete this work,
which is scheduled to start the week
of January 31, 2022 and be completed in March 2022, weather permitting. Construction
activities will typically start at 8:00am and finish by 5:00pm, Monday through Friday. Available
on-street parking will be impacted in the vicinity of each of the six sites. The public should stay
alert for parking restrictions. Driveway and pedestrian access to all businesses will be
maintained although minor delays and inconveniences should be anticipated.
The Public Works Department has mailed letters to residents, businesses and property owners
within 300 feet of these sites. The contractor will also be delivering notices (door hangers) to
businesses before construction begins on their street. The notice will contain additional
information about their operations, access impacts and contact information.
February 9, 2022 10The public’s patience and cooperation during construction of this project is greatly appreciated.
To stay up-to-date about the construction and contact information, please visit our Capital
Improvement Program (CIP) webpage here. For general questions about the project, please
contact the City’s Public Works Department at (510) 215-4382 or the City’s Engineering
Manager, Ana Bernardes, at abernardes@ci.el-cerrito.ca.us.
City Seeking Funding for Hillside Natural Area Fire Resilience and Forest Conservation Plan
In January 2022, the Public Works Department, in
coordination with the City’s Urban Forest
Committee, Fire Department, and Recreation
Department, submitted a Pre-Application for a
Wildfire Resilience Grant from the State of
California Coastal Conservancy. In the pre-
application, the City requested $145,000 (with no
matching City funds required) to primarily update
the City’s fire hazard reduction and vegetation
management plans for the City’s Hillside Natural
Area (HNA).
The grant would fund the development of a comprehensive, up to date, Fire Resilience and
Forest Conservation Management Plan with the objective of providing guidance for fire hazard
mitigation projects including fuel load reduction, fuel break maintenance, emergency access,
and fire prone invasive species management. The Plan would guide forest conservation
activities that enhance the Coast Live Oak woodlands, the riparian woodlands and the
restoration of native fire resilient plant communities, it would identify and protect critical
habitats, watersheds, and resource areas, and it would address public recreation in the HNA by
evaluating access improvements, connectivity and enhancements to the trail network.
If funded, the Plan will include a robust public process to include all interested community
members and stakeholders to guide the development of the Plan. For more information on this
grant application or vegetation management activities in the HNA, please contact Stephen Prée,
City Arborist / Environmental Programs Manager, at spree@ci.el-cerrito.ca.us.
Fire Hazard Reduction Project Completed in the El Cerrito Hillside Natural Area
As reported here in early September, the Public Works Department, in coordination with the
Fire Department, prepared a scope of work, requested
proposals, and entered into agreements with two
contractors to complete fire fuel management activities
in the El Cerrito Hillside Natural Area (HNA). This fiscal
year’s round of work is now complete, and significant
progress was made in reducing potentially hazardous
fire fuels, as called for in the City’s Parks and Recreation
Facilities Master Plan (2019), in alignment with the goals
February 9, 2022 11and policies of the El Cerrito-Kensington Wildfire Action Plan (2017).
Completed work includes dead tree felling and removal (pictured above), fire road clearance,
ground fuel reduction, Eucalyptus thinning, and clearance pruning. This year’s work areas were
between Potrero Avenue and Julian Drive, south of Douglas Drive,
near Wildwood and Gladys Avenue, along the Regency Court Fire
Road, and areas east of the 1400 block of Navellier Street. Work was
prioritized based on proximity to residences, density of fuel loads,
and in support of maintaining emergency and service access routes.
The project was made possible largely due to the passage of
Measure H by El Cerrito voters in November 2019. For more
information about the City’s Urban Forest and related efforts in the
El Cerrito Hillside Natural Area, please contact the City’s
Environmental Programs Manager, Stephen Prée, at spree@ci.el-
cerrito.ca.us.
Street Tree Planting Program Update
The City continued its annual street tree planting program this year
by issuing permits to plant 24 street trees around the community.
City Staff worked with residents who were interested in planting a
tree in the planting strip between the sidewalk and street, surveyed
planting locations, and recommended tree species that would be
well suited for the locations. Tree planting permits are required in
order to assure that street trees are sited in a way that limits
potential damage to street and sidewalk paving and to water,
sewer, or electrical utilities, long into the future.
Residents currently have two options for planting a street tree in front of their home. They can
request that the City plant, stake, and mulch a 15-gallon tree and supply a watering bag, for a
fee, or with an approved permit and lower fee, the resident can purchase and plant up to 3
City-approved trees. The latter option requires a City inspection of the tree planting site, tree
species approval, adherence to the City’s tree planting standard detail and a City inspection.
Both options require completion of a City Tree Care Agreement and an encroachment permit,
both available on the City’s website.
The street tree planting program is open to all residents who agree to water and care for the
new trees for a three year establishment period and with approval by the adjacent property
owner. Applications for street trees can be submitted through the year for annual planting in
the fall or winter months. For more information about the City’s Street Tree Planting Program,
please contact the City’s Environmental Programs Manager, Stephen Prée, at spree@ci.el-
cerrito.ca.us.
February 9, 2022 122021-22 Street Tree Pruning Program
Street tree pruning by City contractors continues this
winter with work scheduled at Arlington Park, Cerrito
Vista Park, and Canyon Trail Park, and at a variety of
other locations prioritized by the urban forest program
based on requests received, the need to address
specific arterial streets, and to complete targeted work
on certain tree species throughout the community. If
residents or businesses would like to submit a street
tree pruning request, they can contact Public Works
Maintenance at (510) 215-4369 or maintenance@ci.el-
cerrito.ca.us.
Recycling Center 50th Anniversary (1972 – 2022)
As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the El Cerrito Recycling Center in 2022, the El Cerrito
Historical Society, in coordination with the Operations + Environmental Services Division, will be
providing a series of fast facts over the coming months to help educate the community on the
facility’s history.
Here’s the first:
The Recycling Center, dubbed E.C.ology by the
handful of volunteers who founded and ran it,
opened in the former Brown & Hutchinson quarry –
still its location – on August 5, 1972 as a twice
monthly “pilot project” to collect bottles and cans.
Thirty-three people dropped off recyclables that
first day.
Photo Credit: El Cerrito Historical Society
Also, please plan on joining the City of El Cerrito, the El Cerrito Historical Society, and others in
celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the El Cerrito Recycling Center (1972-2022) later this year.
Mark Your Calendar for Environmental Events this Spring!
Please also stay tuned for adjustments or changes that may take place closer to the events, in
order to limit the spread of COVID-19. Sign up to receive the latest info on these and other
events in the Operations + Environmental Services Division’s monthly e-newsletter at
el-cerrito.org/greenhappenings.
• Compost Giveaway (Feb. 19 – 25): Free compost for El Cerrito residents and businesses
only at a new pilot location. Compost will be available at the Upper Cerrito Vista Parking
Lot adjacent to the tennis courts (entrance off of Avis Drive). Available while supplies
last. Limit of 5 cubic feet per household or business (approx. seven 5-gallon buckets)
February 9, 2022 13• Baxter Creek Volunteer Workdays (February 6, March 6, April 3, 2022): Help remove
litter and invasive plants from this jewel on the Ohlone Greenway. Workdays will take
place from 10 am—12 pm on the first Sunday of each month, except during major
holiday weekends. RSVP to (510) 215-4350 or cbennett@ci.el-cerrito.ca.us
• Arbor Week (March 7 – 14, 2022): Honor trees with the Urban Forest Committee,
activity details to follow; contact spree@ci.el-cerrito.ca.us for more information.
• Earth Day Week (April 23 – 30, 2022): Celebrate Earth Day between April 23 and April
30, 2022. During Earth Day week, the City will be encouraging residents and businesses
to conduct socially distanced clean-ups around the community and on their own
properties. Find the latest information at el-cerrito.org/EarthDay.
• Spring Citywide Garage Sale (May 7, 2022): Shop the Citywide Sale on Saturday, May 7
from 9am-3pm. If interested in being a host, registration forms must be turned in by
April 15 to be included on the map. Maps will be available online one week prior to the
event. To register, visit www.el-cerrito.org/garagesale.
• Hillside Festival 2022 (May 14 and 15, 2022): Mark your calendars for the Ninth Annual
Hillside Festival. The festival is free and features bird, animal, and plant hikes, history
events, and more. Learn more at http://www.ectrailtrekkers.org/.
• Free Tour of the Recycling + Environmental Resource Center (1st Wednesday Monthly):
Join the City for a behind-the-scenes look at the LEED Platinum Certified Recycling
Center.
Rain is Here, Time to Turn Off Irrigation
Rainy season is here! We’re off to a good start but
still in a drought. With the recent rains, this is a
friendly reminder that residents and businesses
should turn off their irrigation if they haven’t
already.
Unsure about how much you’re watering?
Community members can log in to EBMUD’s My
Water Report Program to view past water use and an estimate of where they use the most
water. If it's their first time visiting, it’s easy to create an EBMUD ID to get started. Expert tip:
Consider installing a weather-based irrigation controller that automatically turns irrigation off
when it's raining. EBMUD even offers a rebate; learn more at ebmud.com/rebates.
February 9, 2022 14RECREATION
Recreation Program Registration
Registration remains open online at www.el-cerrito.org/onlinereg for all Recreation classes
being offered now through May 2022. Please note that the registration site will temporarily be
down from 8:00 – 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 16, 2022 as we prepare to launch a new,
more user-friendly interface. The new site will have better search results, be mobile friendly,
and have an overall better look! The website link and users’ log-in credentials will remain the
same. Recreation customers are encouraged to visit the site after it is launched on February 16,
2022 to check it out and get comfortable using the new interface.
Summer Camp Information & Registration
Summer Camp information including fees, schedule, and more will be available mid-February at
www.el-cerrito.org/summercamp. Some preliminary highlights are online now! Summer Camp
registration will begin Tuesday, March 1, 2022 at 9:00 a.m. Registration will be online only at
www.el-cerrito.org/onlinereg.
Discount Day! Take advantage of the first day of online camp registration to not only secure your
spot in our popular camps, but also receive a 10% discount! All online summer camp registrations
taking place on March 1, 2022 will be 10% off. This is the only discount that will be offered this
summer.
Gymnastics Coaches Receive “You Make a Difference” Award
On January 7, 2022, Gymnastics Coaches Bindy
Graul and Ariane Pelley received the You Make a
Difference Award from WCCUSD’s Community
Advisory Committee for Special Education. Each
year the committee chooses honorees who have
gone above and beyond in their service to students
with exceptional needs. Bindy and Ariane lead
weekly gymnastics classes during the school year in
addition to summer camps, and have served
hundreds of youth in their time with El Cerrito.
They are the spirit behind the program’s motto, “A
Place for Every Gymnast,” and we congratulate
them on this well-deserved recognition!
Camps for President’s Week and Spring Break Week
Camps are offered the weeks that WCCUSD is on break. For President’s Week, camp is offered
Tuesday through Friday, February 22 – 25, 2022. Currently that program is full, but families are
encouraged to register for the waitlist at no cost as we expect some cancellations. For Spring
Break, camp is offered Monday through Friday April 4 – 8, 2022. There are spots available for
Spring Break camp for both K-2 grades at the Harding Clubhouse and 2-6 grades at the Fairmont
February 9, 2022 15Clubhouse. If enrollment is lower than expected, these camps will combine at the Harding
Clubhouse.
School Days Added - Care Provided
When the West Contra Costa Unified School District (WCCUSD) made the decision to close
school for Friday, January 7, 2022 and Monday, January 10, 2022, the impact included a shift in
instruction days to now include Friday, April 1, 2022 and Friday, May 27, 2022 as school days.
Those families in the El Cerrito Recreation Department’s Afterschool Childcare Programs will
have regular care provided on those two Fridays.
El Cerrito High School Swim Team Begins Practice at El Cerrito Swim Center
Beginning Monday February 7, 2022, El Cerrito High School Swim Team will begin practicing at
the El Cerrito Swim Center. Hours for Fitness Swim and Water Aerobics will be changing, please
visit www.el-cerrito.org/swimcenter for the most up-to-date times!
Easy Ride Senior & Disabled Transportation Service
Easy Ride Senior and Disabled Transportation is a shuttle van service for seniors (65 and over)
and persons 18 and over with a disability who are El Cerrito residents. The program is funded by
Measure J Sales Tax. Registration in our Easy Ride Para-Transit program is required and must be
renewed annually. Registration information is available at https://www.el-cerrito.org/adult. For
more information, email recreation@ci.el-cerrito.ca.us or call (510) 559-7000.
AARP Tax-Aide Income Tax Preparation
FREE AARP Tax-Aide Income Tax preparation help for state and federal income tax forms is
available for low and moderate-income seniors in El Cerrito. This FREE service is offered BY
APPOINTMENT ONLY at the Hana Gardens Senior Center located at 10870 San Pablo Ave. Call
(510) 241-2951 to make an appointment.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
The City is pleased to offer the following employment opportunities:
• Assistant Gymnastic Coach – Part-Time
• Childcare Teachers and Aides – Part-Time
• Firefighter/EMT
• Police Cadet – Part-Time
• Police Officer – Lateral and Academy Graduate
• Police Officer – Recruit
• Senior Planner
• Water Aerobics Instructor – Part-Time
February 9, 2022 16For more information about the positions and how to apply, please visit: www.el-
cerrito.org/jobs.
February 9, 2022 17You can also read
