City of Encinitas

The City of Encinitas is excited to kick off its Virtual Cyclovia 2021 today, with the launch of a new page on the City Website that features fun, interactive content and resources to learn about bike safety, skills, and bicycle maintenance with more to come! Additionally, in the coming months, the City of Encinitas will roll out additional interactive and in-person activities and features such as commuting workshops, scavenger hunts, go-by-bike incentives and giveaways throughout 2021 as County Health Orders allow. Get involved and check it out at www.EncinitasCA.gov/Cyclovia

The City of Encinitas is excited to kick off its Virtual Cyclovia 2021 on today, with the launch of a new page on the City Website that features fun, interactive content and resources to learn about bike safety, skills and tips, bicycle maintenance with more to come! Additionally, in the coming months, the City of Encinitas will roll-out additional interactive and in-person activities and features such as commuting workshops, scavenger hunts, go-by-bike incentives and giveaways throughout 2021 as County Health Orders allow. Get involved and check it out at www.EncinitasCA.gov/Cyclovia

Did your electronics game get an upgrade this year? Properly recycling old electronics helps prevent the creation of toxic waste which can infiltrate and pollute our groundwater supply. Local nonprofit Solana Center collects unwanted e-waste such as old computers, phones, cameras, batteries, lightbulbs, electronic toys and games, etc. to be recycled with the help of Urban Corps - an organization that provides job training and educational opportunities to struggling youth ages 18-26 years old in the San Diego area. You can safely drop off e-waste at their center off of El Camino Real in Encinitas during business hours Thursday’s & Saturday’s. #GreeningOurCommunity https://www.solanacenter.org/electronic-waste

Ever wonder about laws pertaining to cycling? Want to learn more about bike lanes, riding on the roadway or what lights are recommended? Just like driving a car, there’s a lot to know in order to use the roadways safely and responsibly. The San Diego County Bicycle Coalition website provides a lot of great information, including state and national rules and laws. Visit the SDCBC website here: https://sdbikecoalition.org/resou/be-safe-follow-the-rules/ Locally, cycling on... public streets in Encinitas is subject to all rules of the California Vehicle Code (CVC). Other areas in Encinitas such as paths, sidewalks and trails may be marked with specific rules and restrictions, so please obey and ride responsibly. Look for more cycling content to come. The City of Encinitas is excited to kick off its Virtual Cyclovia 2021 on January 17 with the launch of a new page on the City Website that features fun, interactive content and resources to learn about bike safety, skills and tips, bicycle maintenance and more. Additionally, the City of Encinitas will roll-out additional interactive activities and features such as commuting workshops, scavenger hunts, go-by-bike incentives and giveaways throughout 2021 as County Health Orders allow. Be safe, be courteous and enjoy the ride!

Out of compliance businesses in Encinitas reminded that the State of California Stay at Home Order is still in effect. Follow this link to learn more https://encinitasca.gov/Home/City-News/ArticleID/348

Encinitas Affordable and Fair Housing Questionnaire II The City of Encinitas is requesting additional input on the topics of affordable housing for all income levels and fair housing. All are encouraged to complete this survey. Your participation will provide the City valuable information to make informed decisions relative to incentivizing the development of affordable housing in our community. Please complete by January 29, 2021 at 5 p.m. Follow this link for the Questionn...aire https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/X8B5FS7. En Espanol https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/XWMTNRP The State of California mandates that all cities and counties prepare a Housing Element as part of the comprehensive General Plan. The 2021-2029 Housing Element represents the City’s effort in fulfilling the requirements under the State Housing Element Law. More information on the Housing Element 2021-2029 and past efforts regarding the Housing Element 2013-2021 are also available on the City’s website. For more information, please contact Jennifer Gates, Principal Planner by email at [email protected] or by phone at (760) 633-2714.

Our Cyclovia Encinitas webpage is now up, featuring great tips, articles, videos, apps, and links to online classes. We will be rolling out more content throughout the year and provide in-person activities when we are allowed. Click over to www.EncinitasCA.gov/Cyclovia to check it out and stay tuned for more content to come in 2021!

Upcoming I-5 Traffic Shift In late January, Build NCC highway construction crews will shift all Interstate 5 (I-5) travel lanes toward the center median four lanes in both the northbound and southbound directions between Manchester Avenue and Birmingham Drive in Encinitas. Preparatory overnight work for the traffic shifts will begin Sunday, January 17, to relocate concrete barriers. Crews anticipate striping the new travel lanes according to the schedule below*: ... Wednesday, January 20 (9 p.m. 5 a.m.) Northbound I-5 o New northbound I-5 travel lanes opened to motorists on Thursday, January 21, at 5 a.m. Wednesday, January 27 (9 p.m. 5 a.m.) Southbound I-5 o New southbound I-5 travel lanes opened to motorists on Thursday, January 28, at 5 a.m. The same number of lanes will remain in each direction during and after these traffic shifts. Overnight lane closures will be required, but no full freeway closures are planned. California Highway Patrol will provide short traffic breaks to lead motorists into the newly shifted lanes. Motorist are advised to remain Work Zone Alert while traveling through construction zones. The traffic shift will accommodate continued I-5 Carpool/High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) Lane outside shoulder construction in this area. *Please note, construction schedules are subject to change. Nearby residents and businesses can expect daytime and overnight construction noise and lights, including OSHA required vehicle back-up alarms. Crews will work to minimize noise and impacts to all nearby communities, and motorists will be detoured with signage and traffic controls. To receive up-to-date weekend ramp closures notifications and detour routes, visit KeepSanDiegoMoving.com/BuildNCC. To receive construction updates by text message, text BuildNCC to 313131. Thank you for your patience during construction!

With the increase in COVID-19 cases in California, the safest way to celebrate the new year is to celebrate at home with the people who live with you or virtually with friends and family. Travel and gatherings with family and friends who do not live with you can increase your chances of getting and spreading COVID-19 or the flu. Staying home is the best way to protect yourself and others. If you are celebrating outside of your home, please remember the following guidance to p...rotect yourself and others from COVID-19: -Wear a mask -Stay at least 6 feet apart -Avoid crowds and poorly ventilated indoor spaces -Wash your hands -Stay home if you are sick For more information on how to celebrate New Year’s Eve safely, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website (https://www.cdc.gov//daily-lif/holidays/new-years-eve.html) for their list of tips. More information on COVID-19 cases and restrictions in San Diego County can be found on www.sandiegocounty.gov/coronavirus. We wish you and your family a healthy and happy New Year!

The City of Encinitas is partnering with @SDnaturecollective for a virtual tidepool event! On Thursday, December 10 from 4:30 pm - 5:00pm, join us online to experience the wonders of tidepools at Swami’s Beach. Swami’s Beach in Encinitas, CA is 1 of 11 Marine Protected Areas in San Diego County! Tidepools are home to amazing animals + plants that you can help protect! Join this interactive virtual event, and learn how to be inspired to help protect wildlife along the Southern California coast by becoming a Tidepool Ambassador in 3 easy steps. https://buff.ly/36KeWfs

With the holidays comes an increase of online orders and excess packaging such as cardboard, packing peanuts, plastic packing pillows and padded envelopes. If you aren’t able to save and reuse the materials, seek proper recycling before sending them to the landfill. Save this resource to help you recycle right during the holiday: https://bit.ly/2IIHe0A #GreeningOurCommunity

E-bike popularity is booming. It’s important to know that people riding e-bikes on the roadways and in public places are subject to the same rules and responsibilities as motor vehicle users. Here are some suggestions when it comes to riding an e-bike (which apply to riding any bike). Do: Ride in the same direction as traffic Do: Wear a helmet and buckle it properly Do: Signal your intentions to other road users by extending your arm or politely calling out... Do: Obey all signs and signals on the road (that includes all stop signs) Do: Pass slower moving traffic on their left Don't: Ride on sidewalks, trails or paths where bikes are not allowed Don't: Weave in between cars (parked or moving) Don't: Ride in the "door zone" (this is the space where people in parked cars may open their doors into traffic) A major difference with e-bikes is speed. So it's even more important to ride safely, predictably, to be visible, and to be alert. Visit the San Diego County Bicycle Coalition e-bike specific webpage to learn about e-bike classifications, CA Vehicle Code laws relating to bikes and more. https://sdbikecoalition.org/ebike-classifications-and-laws/ Look for more cycling content to come. The City of Encinitas is excited to kick off its Virtual Cyclovia 2021 on January 17 with the launch of a new page on the City Website that features fun, interactive content and resources to learn about bike safety, skills and tips, bicycle maintenance and more. Additionally, the City of Encinitas will roll-out additional interactive activities and features such as commuting workshops, scavenger hunts, go-by-bike incentives and giveaways throughout 2021 as County Health Orders allow.

Did you know that Americans create 25% more trash during the holidays? Reduce your waste and turn up the cheer this season with these easy tips. Find the full guide on our blog https://buff.ly/2VqT9D2

The Encinitas Fire Department teamed up with American Medical Response (AMR) to share some of our top tips on staying safe and healthy this holiday season! Let's do what we can to keep everyone safe this winter.

Summer Programs and Camps including Jr. Lifeguards are staple programs offered here in Encinitas. The City of Encinitas is committed to continuing to work with the County of San Diego Health and Human Services and the State of California to explore the options for summer programs and camps during the COVID-19 pandemic. Recreation and Lifeguard staff will be meeting over the upcoming months to discuss options for programming based on projected County guidelines and availability of resources. The health and safety of participants will continue to be our main focus. Updates will be available on City website and social media platforms as it is readily available.

No matter your level of bicycle riding skills, bike lights are essential to make sure you have a safe ride, day or night. Lights aren’t only needed when the sun goes down. In fact, lights are super helpful when riding in conditions where traffic may be present or there is limited visibility. Best bet is to always ride with a bright LED type headlight on the front of the bike and a flashing rear light on the back. Bike light technology has improved leaps and bounds in recent years and can be picked up at a relatively low cost at any local bike shop. Also, it’s always best to dress in clothing with high contrast and reflective materials. Be safe out there and enjoy!

Be courteous and careful when sharing the trail on your bike! Paths and trails are often shared by users of all ages and abilities, including bicyclists, hikers, dog walkers, joggers, parents pushing strollers, and people on horseback. The great variety of users and their varying speeds and mobility can make such riding more unpredictable than riding in the roadway. Here are some important guidelines to follow when using our trails in Encinitas. Make sure the t...rail allows your mode of transportation some trails may or may not allow bikes, horses or pets Keep your speed down and slow way down when passing others while on a bike, and always give a friendly heads-up like "on your left" or use a bike bell Stay to the right, and if you have to stop, move completely off the trail If using headphones or ear buds, keep one ear open so you can be aware of your surroundings Be careful around children or animals; always yield to them. If passing a horse, use your voice so the horse associates the bicycle with a human Use proper lights if riding before daylight or after dusk And parents, please talk to your kids about being careful and courteous while enjoying our terrific trails and paths!

At the October 21, 2020 meeting, the Encinitas City Council unanimously to award a construction and support contracts for Phase 1 of the Leucadia Streetscape Project. The Streetscape Project will improve, preserve, and revitalize Highway 101 and make it safer and easier for visitors to access the area, whether in a car, on a bike or on foot. The first phase of Leucadia Streetscape will start in late 2020/early 2021 with improvements between Marcheta and Basil Streets along N...orth Coast Highway 101. Streetscape construction will start right after work begins on the adjacent El Portal Undercrossing, a new grade-separated railroad undercrossing for bicycles and pedestrians, east of North Coast Highway 101 at El Portal Street. Learn more about the project at www.encinitasca.gov/streetscape. Residents can also call 760-555-2222. Email [email protected] with any questions or requests and a team member will respond within 48 hours.

The organic waste stream in Encinitas is about to be revolutionized and we need you to get involved! Starting in early 2021, @EDCO will be launching its state-of-the-art anaerobic digestion facility that will turn our organic waste into valuable resources with curbside organics pickup. Join @solanacenter as they sit down with EDCO’s General Manager, Jim Ambroso for a free webinar which will give residents the chance for a first sneak peek at the exciting new facility! Register: https://buff.ly/3mqjtsF

The City of Encinitas Virtual Arbor Day event kicks off today! Visit the webpage to learn more about and celebrate Encinitas' trees. www.EncinitasCA.gov/arborday

This holiday season, we want to help you shop local and give without creating waste. Instead of giving more stuff, consider giving a gift of an experience, subscription or donate in their name rather than material items. Check out our blog post for our favorite gifts that give back! https://www.encinitasenvironment.org//41-14-low-waste-holi #GreeningOurCommunity #ZeroWaste

Are you over 60 and looking to get back into the workforce? @sdworkforce is hosting free weekly job skills workshops to help you get back to work. Participants will have an opportunity to earn a paid internship to help you return to work. Learn more at workforce.org/return or by calling 619.228.2918.

Encinitas Virtual Arbor Day 2020 kicks off this Saturday! To Celebrate the City’s urban forest and the multitude of benefits that it provides to the community, the City of Encinitas will host a Virtual Arbor Day event which kicks off on Saturday, October 24, 2020. The Virtual Arbor Day will help strengthen our bond with the City’s trees and celebrate our City’s status as a Tree City USA community.... We invite you to celebrate the City’s trees in a fun, safe, and informative manner. The event will be held virtually and will include (a): Trophy Tree Tracker: use this interactive tool to see where some of Encinitas’s coolest trees are located Tree-Themed Story Time: View tree-themed stories read by staff of the Encinitas branch of the San Diego County Library Urban Forest Management Plan Survey: We want to know what you know and how you feel about trees in the City of Encinitas. The survey will help guide the future management of the City’s trees. Me and My Tree Challenge: Check out submittals of locals and their favorite trees in and around Encinitas. Email in a photo of yourself with your favorite tree to [email protected] and it will be posted to the "Me and My Tree" album. Dedication Tree 2020: To Celebrate Arbor Day, the City will plant a Dedication tree in downtown Encinitas on Monday, October 26 in downtown Encinitas. Find out more on the event webpage. The virtual event starts on October 24 online at www.EncinitasCA.gov/ArborDay, and will be accessible through the month of November. Celebrate trees!

Have you got the bike bug? We love to see so many people getting out and enjoying a ride in Encinitas. If you’re into cycling, you’ll be glad to know that there are terrific resources and information to make your experiences on two wheels awesome. One of our go-to’s is the San Diego County Bike Coalition, with great education materials on their website, workshops, events and other resources. Also, get involved with their Winter Wanderland Week going on now till December 12th. Visit them at www.SDBikeCoalition.com #lovetoride

Encinitans who are seen wearing facemasks could get a $10 or $15 gift card to a local restaurant. With the help of @Cardiff101Mainstreet, @Encinitas101, @EncinitasChamberofCommerce and @Luecadia101, we are distributing $10,000 worth of gift cards to support our small businesses and encourage everyone to stay safe this holiday season. Wear your masks, and be on the lookout for one of our volunteer elves. #EncinitasCares

As Halloween comes and goes it is estimated that 1 billion pounds of pumpkins are sent to the landfill, doomed to rot and create warming gases that will haunt our planet far beyond this spooky season. We have a solution that is scary easy - keep your pumpkins out of the landfill by composting them! Pumpkins are nearly 90% water and contain many nutrients that can be returned back into the soil. EDCO customers can also place their pumpkin in their green waste bins. Crazy ab...out pumpkin carving? To prevent additional waste you can save your seeds to roast or cook up the guts and carvings. We hope everyone has a fun and safe Halloween! Curious to learn more about composting and preventing food waste? Join us for an upcoming free webinar! Follow the link to learn more and register: https://buff.ly/3lWaEX8

Nearly 40% of food produced worldwide is wasted - with almost half of this occurring once you’ve brought it home from the market! You have the power to help change this statistic by making small changes to your daily habits to prevent food waste at home. Starting with shopping smart, proper storage, and understanding labels can be helpful. As you plan your holiday meals this season, keep these strategies in mind to help you shop mindfully and prevent food waste at home. For more tips, check out our food waste resource guide on our page https://buff.ly/3m0JuP2 #GreeningOurCommunity

It’s great to see many residents and visitors of all ages enjoying bike riding in Encinitas. Whether riding to get to work, running an errand or hitting the surf, bikes are awesome! Your safety, and your safe and responsible use of Encinitas’ roadways, bike paths and trails is important. We are ‘gearing’ up to increase resources, cycling tips, ideas and tools for you and your family to use. While we work to develop materials and programs specific to Encinitas, there are ...already many great safe-cycling resources out there. One of our go-to’s is the San Diego Bike Coalition, with great online education materials, workshops, events and other resources. More information can be found at www.SDBikeCoalition.org San Diego County Bicycle Coalition. Also check out our own local group, Bike Walk Encinitas at www.BikeWalkEncnitas.org Bike Walk Encinitas for great safety information, cycling maps and more! Cycling is something you can love for a lifetime, so ride with a mindset of safety and respect. Look for more cycling resources and content from the City in the future. #encinitaslife #GoByBike #bikesafety

While running your AC provides relief in the middle of this heat, turning your thermostat up a few degrees can make big changes to your energy use, and the bill you receive at the end of the month. Energy Star recommends you set your thermostat to 78 or higher to conserve energy while you’re home, and make sure to turn your AC off when you're away to help reduce your carbon emissions.

Everybody Counts So Let's Count Everybody! Today is the last and final day to be counted. Ensure Encinitas gets its fair share of Federal funding and count all members of your household if you haven't already. Click this link to respond https://2020census.gov/en/ways-to-respond.html

Wearing masks will help to stop the spread and keep each other safe. Please dispose of masks properly and keep our community clean and beautiful.

In response to the heat advisory issued through the U.S. National Weather Services for Southern California, the Encinitas Community Center will be open as a Cool Zone between the hours of 11am 5pm from Tuesday, October 13 Friday, October 16, 2020. Those using the Community Center as a Cool Zone will need to follow these requirements: Temperature Check COVID Waiver Signature... Wearing a Mask Social Distancing At Least 6 Feet Apart Members of the public are encouraged to bring a book, laptop or other device while cooling off.

The City of Encinitas asks that cyclists ride safely, carefully and obey all the rules of the road. Ride with the flow of traffic, obey stop signs and lights and pass carefully. If you must ride on a sidewalk, please observe the following NHTSA guidelines: 1. Obey signs and ride where legal (in some business districts in Encinitas, such as the downtown, cycling is not allowed on sidewalks). 2. Pass pedestrians with care and signal on your left or use a bell. 3. Ride in th...e same direction as traffic. This way, if the sidewalk ends, you are already riding with the flow. 4. Slow and look for traffic when crossing a street from a sidewalk; be prepared to stop and follow the pedestrian signals. 5. Watch for cars backing out of driveways or turning. Parents - it’s great that bikes give our kids fun and freedom. Make sure they’re riding safely, respectfully and responsibly when in the public. Ensure that their bikes are well maintained, and legal (e-bikes) for roadway use and that they wear a helmet. The San Diego Bike Coalition is a terrific resource that provides classes and workshops to the public, many of which are completely free. Find their Smart Cycling zoom workshop and many others at https://sdbikecoalition.org/our-work/education/

The City of Encinitas is seeking input from the community related to possible uses of the City-owned Pacific View property as a cultural arts center. The property was formerly an elementary school and is located at 608 Third Street. The current zoning on the property is public or semi-public use. The City has worked with a non-profit organization over the last few years that made improvements to the property and fundraised for these improvements. The survey will be available until October 30. We appreciate your participation in the survey and feedback on the uses of the property. To participate in the survey, visit https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/pacificview

The holidays are a wonderful time of the year, with family, friends, food, and festivities. But it's also the time of year for excessive food waste--it's estimated that between Thanksgiving and New Year's, THREE TIMES as much food is wasted than at other times of the year! Instead of sending organic materials to the landfill, use this graphic to help you sort out what goes into the compost bin. Curious about compost and want to get started in your household? Join us for a webinar this Wednesday 11/18 at 12pm for an Intro to Composting. Register in advance to hold your spot. https://buff.ly/2K8zTYl You can also check out our guide on how to fight food waste here: https://buff.ly/2IwRQzF #GreeningOurCommunity

Flex Alert Called For Today. A Flex Alert has been issued for today, from 3pm to 10pm. Please do your part in conserving energy during this period. Visit the Flex Alert website for details by following this link https://www.flexalert.org

In response to the excessive heat warning issued through the U.S. National Weather Services for Southern California, the Encinitas Community Center will be open as a Cool Zone between the hours of 11am 5pm on Thursday, October 1, 2020. The address is 1140 Oakcrest Park Drive, Encinitas, CA 92024. For information call (760) 943-2250. Those using the Community Center as a Cool Zone will need to follow these requirements: Temperature Check... COVID Waiver Signature Wearing a Mask Social Distancing At Least 6 Feet Apart Members of the public are encouraged to bring a book, laptop or other device while cooling off.

Virtual meeting: Leucadia Streetscape Phase 1 and El Portal Undercrossing, Tuesday, November 17 @ 6:00 pm. https://encinitasca.gov/Home/City-News/ArticleID/343

At their November 18 meeting, City Council will consider the approval of an interim update to the 2018 Climate Action Plan. Click here to review the agenda and provide comments in advance of the meeting: https://encinitasca.gov/Government/Agendas-Webcasts

Learn how to add additional protection for your family and property through this free Firewise Landscaping Workshop. See the attached flyer for details. Sign up by following this link http://events.constantcontact.com/register/event

For the average US household of four, food waste translates into an estimated $1,500 in annual losses. We all can prevent waste in our households by making simple habit changes to help save food, money and resources. We created a helpful guide to print and keep on your fridge with tips on preventing food waste. Take a look and download the guide on our webpage https://buff.ly/3m9O4Lc or join us for a webinar in partnership with @solanacenter to learn smart ways to fight food waste on November 11th at 12 pm PT. Hold your spot in advance for this free virtual event! https://buff.ly/32t7WRh #GreeningOurCommunity

The City of Encinitas’ Public Works Department will host a Sandbag give-a-way events on Saturday, November 14, 2020, from 8:00 am-2:00 pm at the Public Works facility at 160 Calle Magdalena, Encinitas, CA. 92024. 1,500 sandbags will be available to Encinitas residents (no contractors) on a first come, first serve basis. Residents must provide photo identification and show proof of residency. 10 filled sandbags will be given for each address/property (while supply lasts). Residents must self-load and transport the sandbags. The City does not provide this service.

City Council Study Session on the Draft Sixth Cycle Housing Element A study session will be held on Nov. 16, 2020, at 5:00 p.m., by the Encinitas City Council to review and discuss the Sixth Cycle Housing Element Update, comments received from State Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD), and staff’s proposed response to comments. The Housing Element is required by State law to identify and analyze existing and projected housing needs in order to preserve, impr...Continue reading

You know and love it! Come find out about the City's plans to restore the habitat on Beacon's coastal bluff. A virtual public meeting is being held on Monday, November 9th. #naturebasedsolutions #habitatrestoration #nativeplants #climateresiliency Link in the bio to register click here https://encinitas.zoom.us//regis/WN_NdOacyuyTvqRw0Rt4gK6fw

The City of Encinitas wants your input on taking care of our urban forest. The City's urban forest is made up of trees growing on private property, along City streets, and in parks. Encinitas is in the process of refining its Urban Forest Management Plan (UFMP), which guides the City and tree care professionals to proactively and effectively manage our trees. The success of the UFMP relies on the public's input. The goal of the program is to help guide the planting, care, pro...tection, and sustainability of the City's urban trees. To ensure this program considers and incorporates resident priorities, the survey is provided for your voice to be heard. We want to know where focus should be placed as the program is continually improved. We also want your input on the value of a vigorous and engaged urban forestry program in meeting the City's commitment to sustain a healthy urban forest. Click here to take the survey https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/encinitastrees

Commercial Eviction Protections Extended, Residential Eviction Protections Continue Governor Newsom’s Executive Order N-80-20 extends the ability of local governments to enact commercial eviction moratoria through March 31, 2021. Therefore, City of Encinitas Urgency Ordinance 2020-07 involving commercial eviction moratorium is still in effect through March 31, 2021. Tenants must provide notice to the landlord before the rent is due and must provide documentation of the COVI...D-19 related reason for the nonpayment of the rent within two weeks of providing notice. Nothing in this ordinance relieves the tenant of liability for unpaid rent after expiration of the provisions of this ordinance. All rent due must be repaid in full by September 30, 2021. AB 3088 extends residential eviction protections, while also superseding the residential provisions of City’s Urgency Ordinance 2020-07. AB 3088 extends protections from residential eviction through January 31, 2021 as long as renters declare a COVID-19 hardship and pay at least 25 percent of the rent due during this period. Landlords may seek to recover unpaid rent starting March 1, 2021. Please see this link on AB 3088 for additional information.

In the past 50 years, humans have consumed more resources than in all previous history. The first step to reducing is letting go of the consumption mentality and consuming less! Before you take or buy, think critically with these questions to determine whether you really need that thing or could you repurpose something you already have. Check out our new resource guide to learn more about being a zero-waste consumer. https://buff.ly/326MBwU (Pro tip: download this and hang it on your fridge or share with a friend!) If you want to dive deeper, tune on on Nov 4th for a webinar discussing zero waste and simple shifts to close your loop on waste. Register in advance for this free virtual event to hold you spot! https://buff.ly/3mQ54pD

Exercise your right to vote! If you have not yet voted you still have an opportunity to drop off your ballot today, or vote on election day in person tomorrow, November 3, 2020. Visit sdvote.com for information regarding drop off locations, in person voting, candidates, and propositions. Follow this link to find your polling place https://rov.sandiegocounty.gov/rov/Eng/polling.asp and get out and vote!

Take your Jack o’-lantern to a sustainable level and compost your pumpkin either at home or drop it off at a participating school site during our Pumpkin Composting event! Please remove all decorative items as they are not compostable. Please do not drop off pumpkins outside of the days and times listed below: 11/2 & 11/3, 8am-2:30pm... Capri - Lower lot by the elevator El Camino Creek - Front and back gates of the school Flora Vista - Signed tarp area at the front of the school La Costa Heights - Signed tarp area at the front of the school Mission Estancia - Signed tarp area by the bike racks Olivenhain Pioneer - Signed tarp area at the front of the school near the East gates Park Dale Lane - Signed tarp area in the grassy area near the front of the school Sites with Alternate Dates and Times Ocean Knoll - 11/2 only 8am-2:30pm Farm Gate on Bonita Drive Paul Ecke Central 11/3 9am-3pm **AT FARMLAB** in the trailer at the center circle Oak Crest - 11/2 8am-3pm Signed tarp area at the front of the school Diegueno - 11/3 from 2pm - 5pm and 11/4 from 7:30am - 12 noon on the signed tarp at the top of the hill FarmLab - 11/3 9am-3pm in the trailer at the center circle Composting is a fantastic sustainable option to recycle organic waste and reduce greenhouse gasses in our atmosphere. Coming soon- EDCO Organics Recycling curbside pick-up for 92024 residents! https://buff.ly/3kEpnFS

State of the City Address. Click the link below to view the Chamber of Commerce’s first virtual State of the City address! Mayor Blakespear will review the great accomplishments in the City from 2019 through the present, as well as describe how the City was able to adjust and continue to provide essential services during this trying period. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4fAOTHwmKE4&feature=youtu.be

Be sure to take our Pacific View use survey before it closes this Saturday night (October 31, 11:45pm PST). The City of Encinitas is seeking input from the community related to possible uses of the City-owned Pacific View property as a cultural arts center. The property was formerly an elementary school and is located at 608 Third Street. The current zoning on the property is public or semi-public use. The City has worked with a non-profit organization over the last few years that made improvements to the property and fundraised for these improvements. We appreciate your participation in the survey and feedback on the uses of the property. To participate in the survey, visit https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/pacificview

Looking to achieve your zero waste potential? Join us for our new Green Wednesdays free webinar series this November! We’ll kick it off on 11/4 discussing simple shifts to close your loop on waste. Next up, Smart Ways to Fight Food Waste on 11/11 which will share tips and tricks to prevent waste and save money. To round it out, we’ll talk composting on 11/18. Learn how to start sending less to the landfill and create healthy soil amendments to use in your plants and garden instead! We hope to see you there. Sign up for free at https://buff.ly/34vm6Dd and tell a friend who wants to join you on the zero waste journey! #GreeningOurCommunity

The City of Encinitas Virtual Arbor Day event kicks off today! Visit the webpage to learn more about and celebrate Encinitas' trees. www.EncinitasCA.gov/arborday

It’s great to see many residents and visitors of all ages enjoying bike riding in Encinitas. Whether riding to get to work, running an errand or hitting the surf, bikes are awesome! Your safety, and your safe and responsible use of Encinitas’ roadways, bike paths and trails is important. We are ‘gearing’ up to increase resources, cycling tips, ideas and tools for you and your family to use. While we work to develop materials and programs specific to Encinitas, there are ...already many great safe-cycling resources out there. One of our go-to’s is the San Diego Bike Coalition, with great online education materials, workshops, events and other resources. More information can be found at www.SDBikeCoalition.org San Diego County Bicycle Coalition. Also check out our own local group, Bike Walk Encinitas at www.BikeWalkEncnitas.org Bike Walk Encinitas for great safety information, cycling maps and more! Cycling is something you can love for a lifetime, so ride with a mindset of safety and respect. Look for more cycling resources and content from the City in the future. #encinitaslife #GoByBike #bikesafety

Everybody Counts So Let's Count Everybody! Today is the last and final day to be counted. Ensure Encinitas gets its fair share of Federal funding and count all members of your household if you haven't already. Click this link to respond https://2020census.gov/en/ways-to-respond.html

Wearing masks will help to stop the spread and keep each other safe. Please dispose of masks properly and keep our community clean and beautiful.

#CleanAirDayCA is a great chance to help clear the air by trying an alternate form of transportation. Pledge to leave your car at home and try teleworking, biking, walking, carpooling, vanpooling, or taking transit on October 7! Take the pledge at https://www.cleanairday.org/individual-pledge/encinitas/

We are more than halfway through Coastal Cleanup Month! Check out the map to see how we are doing in the San Diego region There's still time to take action! Remember to download the free Clean Swell app to record data and make your cleanup count, and to use the hashtags #ProtectYourHappyPlace and #CoastalCleanup on social media. Find more information at https://buff.ly/2Laq5bp This month more than 4000 volunteers have cleaned almost 28,000 pounds of trash from local neighbor...hoods, parks and waterways. This litter would have otherwise flowed into storm drains and creeks, traveled to the beach, and polluted the ocean. Thank you for volunteering, and happy cleaning! #EncinitasEnvironment

SAVE THE DATE - DRAFT DENSITY BONUS ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS! On Tuesday, October 6, 2020 at 6 pm the City of Encinitas will hold a virtual public presentation to present the Draft Density Bonus Ordinance Amendments. Hear about the proposed changes to the local Density Bonus regulations and an overview of current State law. There will be an opportunity to ask questions virtually. Register now for the virtual presentation: https://encinitas.zoom.us//regis/WN_T7qkSKjAQnirEYNn6oI...ndQ. The Draft Ordinance will be available Thursday, October 1 on the City's website at https://encinitasca.gov//Development-Services-Public-Notic. For more information please contact Nick Zornes, Planner IV by email [email protected].

https://encinitasca.gov/Home/City-News/ArticleID/237

Fire Prevention Week Drive-Thru Event! Saturday, October 3 10:00 AM 1:00 PM Del Mar Fairgrounds 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd... Del Mar *Face covering required As Fire Prevention Week approaches, the Encinitas Fire Department reminds residents to Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen! Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the ever popular annual Fire Prevention Open House is switching to a DRIVE-THRU Event at the Del Mar Fairgrounds in support of this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign. Attendees will remain in their vehicles, enjoy a display of various types of emergency vehicles, and pick up safety information. According to the National Fire Prevention Agency (NFPA), cooking is the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries. Almost half (44%) of reported home fires start in the kitchen. Two-thirds (66%) of home cooking fires start with the ignition of food or other cooking materials. For more general information about Fire Prevention Week and cooking fire prevention, visit www.fpw.org. See more

Recycling Right means items are LOOSE - unbagged, in the blue bin. Plastic bags can cause major problems at recycling sorting facilities. Need a refresher on what you can place in your recycling bin or more on Recycling Right? Visit our page at https://buff.ly/3m9O4Lc Easy as 1-2-3 Empty, Dry & Loose.... #EncinitasEnvironment #RecycleRight

Recycling Right means items are DRY-no liquids remaining. Leftover liquids can ruin other recyclables in the bin. Need a refresher on what you can place in your recycling bin or on Recycling Right? Visit our page for more info - https://buff.ly/3m9O4Lc Easy as 1-2-3 Empty, Dry & Loose.... #RecycleRight Thanks again @CountyofSanDiegoRecycling for the post! See more

Encinitas seeks nominations for its 2020 Environmental Award Program Deadline for Nominations: Saturday, October 31, 2020 by 12:00 midnight The City of Encinitas Environmental Commission is proud to announce the opening of nominations for its prestigious Environmental Award Program (EAP), now in its sixth year. The EAP seeks to recognize deserving individuals, businesses, and non-profits for their commitment to environmental stewardship and outstanding environmental achievem...ents in the city. Two Excellence in Environmental Stewardship awards have been historically granted to a for-profit business and a non-profit business each year since the program’s founding in 2014 by Environmental Commissioners Jim Wang and Joy Lyndes. In 2019, under the leadership of Environmental Commissioners Christian Adams and Inge Bisconer, a new Environmental Hero category was added to recognize both an adult and a youth who are not necessarily affiliated with a business. The deadline to submit nominations for the 2020 award program is Saturday, October 31st by 12:00 midnight. For more information and to learn about last year's winners, follow this link https://encinitasca.gov/Home/City-News/ArticleID/338

Recycling Right means items are EMPTY-no or minimal food residue remaining. Spatulas work great on getting the leftover peanut butter out of the jar AND doesn't use any water! Need a refresher on what you can place in your recycling bin or more on Recycling Right? Visit our page at https://buff.ly/3m9O4Lc Easy as 1-2-3 Empty, Dry & Loose.... Thanks County of San Diego Recycling for the post! #EncinitasEnvironment #RecycleRight

Are You Ready In Case of a Wildfire? A Red Flag Warning is in effect through 8 p.m. today for San Diego County inland valleys and mountains, which indicates the possible onset of critical weather and dry conditions that can lead to rapid wildfire activity. The Encinitas Fire Department would like to remind everyone to stay informed, be ready, and go early in case of a wildfire. Here are four quick things to do to prepare for a wildfire: 1) Download the SD Emergency App on y...our smartphone or tablet the Must-Have Preparedness App in San Diego County: The App contains disaster preparedness information and will keep you informed with emergency updates, interactive emergency maps, and shelter locations. Download from the Apple App Store or the Android App on Google Play. 2) Sign up for Alerts with AlertSanDiego: Register your cell phone number, VoIP phone number, and/or your email address to receive official notifications when there is risk of an emergency or disaster. You can register here: www.readysandiego.org/alertsandiego. 3) Have a plan ready in case of an evacuation for you and your family. If you have large animals, have a plan to get them out early. 4) If a wildfire threatens our community, you don’t have to wait for an evacuation order. Leave early. For more information on how to prepare for a disaster, visit www.encinitasca.gov/Emergencyprep and www.readysandiego.org Last but not least, we urge everyone to be extremely cautious of anything that could spark a wildfire. One less spark could mean one less wildfire. Prevent wildfire when using outdoor equipment, burning debris, camping, and more. You can learn how more on preventing wildfires caused by people at www.readyforwildfire.org/prevent-wildfire.

Have a great Labor Day weekend everybody. Don’t forget to wear your facial covering and keep yourself and others safe!

Encinitas City Council to Consider Appointing New City Manager Encinitas, CA (Sept. 3, 2020) The Encinitas City Council will consider appointing Pamela W. Antil as its next city manager at its September 9 City Council meeting. Antil became the top candidate after a nationwide search to replace Encinitas’ previous City Manager, Karen Brust, who retired in June after nearly five years with the city. If the item is approved, Antil would begin on October 12, 2020. To see the full story, click this link https://encinitasca.gov/Home/City-News/ArticleID/337

The Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts Department is proud to bring you a great fall lineup of both live and virtual camps and programs, and a wide variety of virtual classes for adults and seniors. We are excited to offer in-person programs at our top-notch parks and facilities, while a variety of programs are being held using the easy and effective Zoom platform. Class sizes are limited so register as soon as possible! Visit www.EncinitasParksandRec.com to view fall programs and to register.

The City of Encinitas Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts Department is proud to bring you a great fall lineup of both live and virtual camps and programs, and a wide variety of virtual classes for adults and seniors. Instructors leading in-person programs are eager to offer enjoyable and enriching programs at our top-notch parks and facilities, while making health and safety a priority. Virtual programs are held using the easy and effective Zoom platform. Registration opens on Monday, August 31 for programs listed in the brand-new Fall Guide. Visit https://encinitasca.gov/Residents/Recreation-Programs

How is the changing climate affecting our beaches? And what is the City of Encinitas doing to help? Check out the most recent blog post on the City’s Climate Dashboard to find out more and track the City’s progress on our climate goals #SeaLevelRise #CoastalAdaptation #EncinitasEnvironment

The Draft Homeless Action Plan is available now for review and comment on the project webpage. On August 17, 2020, the City of Encinitas held a virtual public presentation to present the Draft Homeless Action Plan. For those unable to attend, you can watch online through a link provided on the project webpage. https://encinitasca.gov/homelessactionplan.

Hey Encinitas! In an effort to simplify the rules of recycling, we are coming together as a region to help you "Recycle Right." Keep your recyclables EMPTY (no food), DRY (no liquids) and LOOSE (DO NOT bag your recyclables). Need a refresher on what you can place in your recycling bin? Get "Back to Basics" with these 4 categories of materials:... Paper, Cardboard & Cartons Plastic Bottles & Containers Glass Bottles & Jars Metal/Aluminum Cans & Foil

California’s heatwave is expected to last all week! To avoid power outages, we have to do our part NOW to save energy. Pre-cool your home overnight and in the early morning at 72 and, from 3-10pm, set your A/C at 78 or higher and avoid using major appliances. Sign up for alerts here: flexalert.org

Northbound I-5 On-Ramp Closure at Leucadia Boulevard this Weekend On Friday, August 14, Caltrans and SANDAG Build NCC crews will conduct a planned Interstate 5 (I-5) weekend ramp closure in the City of Encinitas. Weekend on- and off-ramp closures allow crews to realign interchange ramps to accommodate two new Carpool/High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) Lanes, one in each direction on I-5. The ramp closure will begin Friday, August 14, at 9 p.m., and reopen on Monday, August 17, at 5 a.m. at the northbound I-5 on-ramp from Leucadia Boulevard. Detour signage will be in place to guide motorists around this closure via southbound I-5 to Encinitas Boulevard. Please see the highlighted detour route below:

COVID-19 Emergency Rental & Utility Assistance Program. The City of Encinitas has established a program to offer financial assistance to help pay for past-due or upcoming rent and utility payments. Payments of up to $4,500 are made directly to the landlord and/or to the utility cover the costs of rent, trash, and water. The program is for income-qualified households that can demonstrate the need for assistance due to the Coronavirus global pandemic. For more information and to apply please click https://encinitasca.gov//NEW-Emergency-Rental-and-Utility-.

F O R A D D I T I O N A L I N F O R M A T I O N Email [email protected]

Terns, cormorants, pelicans, snowy plovers, oh my! Get your binoculars ready to take advantage of the many excellent bird watching opportunities in and around the local marine protected areas (MPAs). Venture out to Batiquitos Lagoon No-take SMCA or Famosa Slough No-take SMCA in San Diego and count the number and diversity of birds you observe - you'll be amazed. #KnowYourMPA #CaliforniaMPAs (Photo courtesy of Bryce Bradford) Did we miss your favorite spot? Let us kno...w what MPA you like to bird watch at in the comments, and don’t forget to tag us in your favorite photos! Want to learn more? Visit https://buff.ly/31iDp7v *Given that COVID continues to impact the state and the need to social distance remains, bird watching is a great solo activity to consider. Just be sure to follow all local regulations and respect local closures, #KnowBeforeYouGo!

Keeping Encinitas healthy and safe is our top priority. We appreciate YOUR help as we work together to slow the spread of COVID-19. The City is also focused on supporting our local businesses at a time when they need us the most. While public health orders are changing quickly, we want to make it as easy as possible to keep our businesses open and operating. We’re accepting applications for businesses who want to conduct commercial activity (like shopping or dining!) outdoors and within the City’s right-of-way. We’re also granting temporary commercial use permits on a first come, first served basis for religious services, fitness class or similar activities in outdoor recreational areas. Learn more on the business resource page of the City’s COVID-19 webpage. https://bit.ly/33cee96 #CareForYourCommunity