Malicious vandalism is frustrating and expensive

I hope everyone has had a great summer. As we enter the last two weeks before school starts, I think we’re all looking forward to that day. The level of malicious vandalism to city property this summer has been extraordinary. The Grove Park has taken the brunt of it, but all our parks and public facilities have been targeted.

Our staff works hard to keep our facilities in top shape for events, and it’s frustrating to have the damage repeated as soon as it’s been repaired. An example: staff pressure washed the surfaces in The Grove the day before the last concert;

24 hours later, there was an unknown sticky goo all over the sidewalks and many of the tables.

The cost to repair the damage comes out of our park and general funds and the time takes away from other maintenance duties. If you witness vandalism in progress, please report it immediately to the Clayton PD at 673-7350. If you find damage somewhere, let us know. Please be as specific as you can.

Milestones: Earlier this month, Clayton Finance Manager Merry Pelletier announced she will retire in December following 13 years of service to our city. We will miss her bright smile at City Hall and wish her well in her upcoming retirement. The city will be conducting a search for her replacement. The job posting will be on the city’s website in September. Contact City Hall for further information.

Some good news: To address the speed of commute and other traffic and improve the safety of students near Diablo View Middle School, Clayton has accepted a $40,000 grant from the 511 Contra Costa Street Smarts Infrastructure Program for the purchase and installation of two solar-powered traffic signs with flashing beacons and speed readouts along Marsh Creek Road adjacent to DVMS. The signs will be placed in the median islands to help reduce vandalism.

Clayton had introduced an ordinance that will prohibit the establishment of marijuana dispensaries within city boundaries. It also will prohibit any cultivation of marijuana beyond that for personal medical use with a permit. Final adoption of the ordinance is anticipated following the public hearing at the August 20th council meeting.

Fire Station Closure update: In response to the closure of four stations, including Clayton’s, and anticipated closure of additional stations, the county Board of Supervisors has commissioned a study of the County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Agency and an integrated operations study of the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District. The studies of both the EMS Agency and Fire District are being conducted by Fitch & Associates, LLC. As part of the study, the consulting team is seeking input from cities regarding the future of the Fire District. Fitch & Associates will conduct a community meeting at the Clayton Library at 6:30pm on Wednesday evening, August 21st. Bring your questions, concerns and suggestions.

As always, you can contact me by email at JPierce@ci.clayton.ca.us. Let me know what you think!