Greetings from the City Manager

Hello Pinole!

I first want to share how grateful I am for the warm welcome from both our staff and our residents during my first week as Interim City Manager. It has been a pleasure meeting many dedicated team members and community partners who care deeply about Pinole’s future.

As we dive into spring, I want to remind everyone that our Annual Egg Hunt is this Saturday from 10am to 12pm at Fernandez Park. It’s always a wonderful family event – don’t forget to bring your baskets!

Behind the scenes, our staff is hard at work developing strategic budgets for Fiscal Year 2026–27, carefully incorporating the community’s priorities and long‑term goals. Pinole is proud to uphold award‑winning financial and budget management practices, and that commitment to excellence continues as we chart our course for the year ahead.

You may have already noticed some great progress around town: Pinon Avenue, Ramey Court, Zoe Court and Orleans Drive are looking fantastic with fresh paving. It’s cruising season, and nothing makes it better than smooth new roads!

There’s more to come: the City currently has a Request for Bids out for our next round of improvements through the Road Rehabilitation Plan, which will address areas along San Pablo Avenue, Shea Drive, and Pinole Valley Road. We’re eager to get work underway and continue enhancing mobility and safety for everyone who lives, works, and travels here.

Thank you again for the warm welcome and for being part of what makes Pinole so special. I look forward to serving you in this capacity while the search for a permanent City Manager continues over the next few months.

We Want to Hear From You

CITY MANAGER COMMUNITY SURVEY

The City of Pinole is preparing to recruit a City Manager. As a member of this community, your opinion is valued, so we invite you to share your perspective on the qualities and priorities that you would like to see in Pinole’s next City Manager.

Upcoming Events

CITY PUBLIC MEETINGS

Planning Commission Meeting - Mon, Mar. 23, 7pm - Zoom/City Hall

Special City Council Meeting - Tues, Mar. 24, 6pm - Zoom/City Hall

Community Services Commission Meeting - Wed, Mar. 25, 5pm - Zoom/City Hall

Special City Council Meeting - Tues, Mar. 31, 5pm - Zoom/City Hall

City Council Meeting - Tues, Apr. 7, 5:30pm - Zoom/City Hall

Planning Commission Meeting - Mon, Apr. 13, 7pm - Zoom/City Hall

Finance Subcommittee Meeting - Wed, Apr. 15, 5pm - Zoom/City Hall

City Council Meeting - Tues, Apr. 21, 5:30pm - Zoom/City Hall

The public may attend and participate in-person in the City Hall Council Chamber or via Zoom. Agendas, minutes, and other detailed information regarding how to attend and participate in Pinole’s public meetings can be found on the website.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

Virtual Meet The Recruiter: Pinole City Manager - Thurs, Mar. 19, 6pm - Zoom

Spring Egg Hunt - Sat, Mar. 21, 10am - 12pm - Fernandez Park

Pinole Earth Walk - Sat, Apr. 18, 9-11:30am - Fernandez Park

Swim Center Grand Reopening - Sat, Apr. 18, 1-4pm - 2454 Simas Avenue

HOLIDAY CLOSURE

City Hall and Community Services facilities will be closed to the public on

Friday, March 27.

Inside the Council Chambers

Council and city staff prepare to start the meeting. From left to right: Councilmember Norma Martinez-Rubin, Mayor Anthony Tave, Council Member Maureen Toms, Interim City Manager Garrett Evans, City Attorney Eric Casher, and City Clerk Heather Bell-Spears.

Community member Mr. Pakpor received the Nowruz Proclamation and thanked City Council on behalf of Iranian Americans in California.

COUNCIL HIGHLIGHTS

At its March 17, 2026 meeting, the Pinole City Council issued a proclamation to honor Nowruz, a holiday celebrated as the new year by millions of people around the world, including those descended from Persian and Iranian ancestors. Nowruz, in Persian means "New Day" and marks the beginning of spring. It is about celebrating renewal, connecting with loved ones and honoring nature. Council also recognized International Women's History Day and Women's History Month with a proclamation.

Safety Improvements at Appian Way and Marlesta Road Officially Completed

The City of Pinole has completed the Safety Improvements Project at Appian Way and Marlesta Road, which delivered a new traffic signal, high‑visibility crosswalks, green bike lane treatments, improved signage, and pavement resurfacing. Construction, led by Gruendl Inc. (Ray’s Electric), finished in February 2025 and came in under budget at $600,218.40—well below the approved $715,891. With all work meeting project specifications, staff is recommending that the City Council accept the project as complete and authorize filing the Notice of Completion. The project was primarily funded through OBAG and TDA grants, along with Measure S‑2014 funds.

The Beat of Pinole

Watch Mayor Anthony Tave in this month's episode of The Beat of Pinole, where he talks about the Public Safety Building Roof Project, road updates, the re-launch of the PEER Program and more! Video produced by Pinole Community TV. 

News & Updates

Members of Pinole Police Department and other participants at last year's Polar Plunge event.

The Pinole Police Department plungers get ready to dive in the chilly waters of the Hercules Community Pool.

TAKE THE PLUNGE: JOIN PINOLE PD IN SUPPORTING SPECIAL OLYMPICS ATHLETES

The Pinole Police Department has formed a team for the annual Polar Plunge to support Special Olympics athletes, and they're inviting the community to join the effort. Last year, thanks to outstanding local support, Pinole PD earned the distinction of being the top fundraising agency, raising more than $68,000. This year, the department aims to defend that title and continue empowering athletes with intellectual disabilities through inclusive sports and competition. Whether by plunging, donating, or helping spread the word, every contribution makes a meaningful impact. Yesterday, Pinole PD took a cold yet refreshing dip into the Hercules Community Pool alongside athletes from the Northern CA Team. Join the Pinole Police Department Polar Plunge Team and help make this year another success: https://p2p.onecause.com/bay-area-polar-plunge/

Donation Instructions:

1. Click on "Donate to a Plunger or Chicken"
2. Search for Pinole Police Department under name

PINOLE EXPLORES REVENUE OPTIONS AHEAD OF BUDGET PREPARATION

The Pinole City Council is currently evaluating potential strategies to increase revenues in future budgets. Options under consideration include ballot measures for a bond program for infrastructure, a parcel tax for public safety, and/or a sales tax measure for public safety. On October 14, 2025, during a Special City Council Meeting held as part of a Financial Revenue Workshop, the Council approved adding these strategies to the resident poll to better understand community priorities. Following this direction, the City engaged a consultant to conduct a bilingual (English and Spanish) survey of 400 residents between March 3–15, using both phone and online methods. The results of this poll will be presented at the Special Council Meeting on Tuesday, March 24 at 5 p.m., alongside discussion of a potential Cannabis Ordinance as another possible revenue source. Following the presentation, the Council will consider whether to place a measure on the November 2026 ballot.

A Greener Pinole

Young stewards pose for a photo on the Bay Trail at previous Pinole Earth Walk event. 

PINOLE EARTH WALK IS SATURDAY APRIL 18

The City of Pinole invites the community to celebrate Earth Day at the annual Pinole Earth Walk on Saturday, April 18, 2026, from 9:00 to 11:30 a.m. at Fernandez Park. This family‑friendly 1.5‑mile walk along the Pinole Creek and Bay Trail brings together students, teachers, businesses, faith groups, first responders, and neighbors to support clean air, clean water, renewable energy, and the protection of local ecosystems. After the walk, attendees can enjoy free vegan food and drink  and environmental partners will be on-site with hands-on activities and educational resources to inspire action. This initiative aligns with Earth Day's 2026 global theme: "One Power, One Planet," where everyone is encouraged to participate. We hope to see you there!

Interested event sponsors may contact kamin@pinole.gov.

Rebates available for energy-efficient improvements.

GO GREEN AND SAVE MONEY WITH PEER REBATES

The City of Pinole is excited to announce the Pinole Energy Enhancement Rebate Program (PEER) has reopened! The program is still available to all-income households and was slightly restructured so income-qualifying energy rebates through BayREN EASE can be layered with PEER. Income-qualifying households get to save even more through BayREN ease offerings such as 80% coverage for insulation and duct sealing and fixed pricing for heat pump technology installation-all stackable with PEER rebates. All-income households are eligible for PEER rebates. Get up to $3,000 in rebates on improvements like heat pump water heaters, HVAC systems, induction stovetops, insulation, and more. These upgrades help you lower energy costs, improve home comfort, and contribute to a more sustainable community. Wait, there's more! For a limited time, the City will also be offering no-cost permit fees for heat pump water heaters and heat pump HVACs. Instant permits have also recently launched for some of the PEER measures. Plus, you can stack PEER rebates with local, state, and federal programs to save even more! But hurry—rebates are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Visit the PROJECT WEBSITE for full details. Let’s work together to make your home more energy-efficient and our community greener!

Reminders

HOW TO SUBMIT A SERVICE REQUEST

Report potholes, streetlights, wastewater, tree trimming, public parks and facilities, or other issues on City-owned property to Public Works. You can submit a Service Request on our website or through the mobile app:

How to submit a request through the website:

1. From the homepage, click on “Report a Problem"
2. Click on the “Service Request Form” tab
3. Fill out the form, and click “Submit”

How to submit a request through the City of Pinole app:

1. Click on “Contact us”
2. Click on “Report an Issue”
3. Click on “Report a Public Property Issue”

Fill out the form, and click “Submit”

Submitting work requests in this way is the best way for work requests to get addressed in a timely manner. Thank you for your cooperation and partnership to keep our city in tip top shape!

SIGN UP FOR COMMUNITY WARNING SYSTEM ALERTS

The Community Warning System (CWS) is the all-hazard public warning notification system for Contra Costa County. CWS alerts you through phone calls, text messages, email, the sounding of sirens, this website, and social media, when a potentially life or health-threatening hazard requires you to take action. You can also receive alerts from the CWS through the City of Pinole mobile app.

SPRING EGG HUNT

Hop into the Spring spirit at our annual Spring Egg Hunt. On Saturday, March 21 from 10am-12pm, enjoy an egg-citing event filled with children's activities, bubble fun, food vendors, & Floppy the Bunny! All activities will be held at Fernandez Park (595 Tennent Avenue). Bring your own basket and enjoy a day filled with springtime fun! For questions or inclusive hunt options, email recreation@pinole.gov or call (510) 724-9800.

YOUTH PROGRAMS

The Community Services Department is excited to offer a variety of engaging sports and enrichment programs for youth ages 3–12! Offerings include family yoga, drumming, and soccer providing opportunities to build strength, confidence, creativity, and teamwork. Registration is required for all offerings and is now open at www.pinolerec.com.

ZUMBA AND EXERCISE

Get energized fitness and movement classes at the Senior Center (2500 Charles Ave.) Enjoy Turbo Kick, Zumba, Zumba Toning, along with Circuit & Fitness Training designed to keep you active and energized. Register for exercise classes at www.pinolerec.com or stop by the senior center front desk.

SPRING BREAK CAMPS (AGES 3-12)

Registration for Pinole Spring Break Camps is now open! Camp will be buzzing with active games, spring-time activities, outdoor exploration, sports, music, and all sorts of fun. Camps run from April 6–10 and include Busy Bees (ages 3–5) at 2454 Simas Avenue and Spring Guardians (ages 6–12) at 635 Tennent Avenue, with sessions held 9am-4pm. For questions, please email recreation@pinole.gov or call (510) 724-9800. Registration today at www.pinolerec.com.

SWIM CENTER REOPENING

Celebrate the Grand Reopening of the Swim Center (2450 Simas Ave.) on Saturday, April 18 from 1pm-4pm. Learn about Swim Center offerings this season, including pool party reservations, swim lessons, and lap swim! Registration for swim lessons will open on Saturday, April 4 at 8am at www.pinolerec.com. For additional questions, please contact pinoleseals.pool@gmail.com or (510) 724 - 9800. Visit www.pinole.gov/swimcenter for all Swim Center offerings.

SUMMER CAMPS

Make this summer unforgettable with fun-filled camps for ages 3–12 in Pinole! Campers will enjoy games, arts and crafts, sports, and exciting outdoor adventures, with each week featuring a unique theme to keep the fun going all summer long. Weekly camps run June 15–August 14 , 9am–4pm at Tiny Tots (2454 Simas Ave ages 3–5.) and Youth Center (635 Tennent Ave ages 6–12.)  New this year, families can secure their spot with a $25 per week deposit at registration and pay the remaining balance by the Wednesday prior to camp. For questions, email recreation@pinole.gov or call (510) 724-9800, and register at www.pinolerec.com.

FOOD BANK DISTRIBUTION

The Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano County will be providing free bags of fresh produce, on bag per household. The next drive-thru distribution is Monday, April 13, 2026, from 9-10am (or as long as supplies last) at the Pinole Senior Center. If you have any questions, email recreation@pinole.gov or call us at (510) 724-9800.

SENIOR FOOD PROGRAM

The Senior Center partners with the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano County to offer the Senior Food Program. Low-income senior citizens ages 55+ to receive free groceries, including healthy staples, eggs, cheese, and assorted meats twice a month. The program is available for Pinole senior residents only. This program takes place every second and fourth Tuesday of the month. The next distribution will be on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, from 10-11am. Individuals interested in the program must complete the Senior Food Program Application. Applications are available at the Senior Center and can also be found on the Pinole Senior Center website: www.pinole.gov/seniors. Please note, the Senior Food Program is switching to the choice method, where you will now need to bring your own bag with you, and you will select the items you want.

COMMUNITY SERVICE DAY

Step into the spirit of community and join us in uplifting City parks and public spaces through hands-on volunteer efforts on Saturday, May 16 from 9am-11am at the Youth Center (635 Tennent Ave.). Lend a hand, connect with neighbors, and make Pinole shine together! Register as a volunteer at www.pinolerec.com. Have questions or a project you would like to propose? Please email recreation@pinole.gov to submit your idea.

PARK AND FACILITY RENTALS

Looking for a place to host your special event? Reserve a park, field, or facility for your special occasion! To book your rental, visit www.pinolerec.com.

JOIN OUR TEAM

The City of Pinole Community Services Department is now hiring part-time positions. Become a member of our team – Visit our website to apply today.

BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS

The City of Pinole is recruiting applications to fill a vacancy for a trustee representing Pinole on the Contra Costa County Mosquito and Vector Board.

Qualifications: applicants must be a Contra Costa County taxpayer minimum voting age of 18 years, a registered elector in the city of pinole, with interest in any of the following areas: public health, public policy, wetlands, farming, community education, finance, personnel or land development.

Term:    2 years 

Duties:    attend board of trustees’ meetings on the 2nd Monday of every other month (January, march, may, July, September, & November) at 7 pm at the district offices, 5750 Imhoff drive suite I, Concord, CA.

How to apply:    letters of interest should be mailed to the city clerk’s office, 2131 pear street, pinole, ca 94564 or emailed to rstone@pinole.gov.   Interested parties must be residents of pinole.

This recruitment is open until March 31, 2026.  Appointments are made by the pinole city council.  

Applicants will be contacted once the filing period has closed.

DONATIONS

Save good food from going to waste!
The app “Too Good To Go: End Food Waste” connects people with cafes, restaurants, bakeries and/or stores in their local area which have perfectly good food left over to save and enjoy at half of the price or less. This app is the world's largest marketplace for surplus food. It helps users rescue good food from going to waste, offering great value at local stores and eateries. Available to download via your app store on your phone, and check out their website as well: https://www.toogoodtogo.com/en-us