Greetings from the City Manager

Hello, Wonderful Pinole Residents!

July has arrived, bringing long, sunny days and a lineup of exciting City outdoor events to keep the summer spirit alive! I’m thrilled to share some updates and highlights as we dive into this vibrant month.

Thank you for your patience during the recent Republic Services strike. We’re pleased to confirm that limited residential trash collection routes are running through Saturday, July 19. Please place your garbage cart out with extra bagged trash (no additional charge), and keep carts out until serviced, as pickups may occur on non-scheduled days. Republic Services is also servicing commercial, industrial, apartment complexes, small business and locations when notified that you need service. The City of Pinole is developing a contingency plan in case the strike persists and will share updates as available. Please follow our multiple social media sites (Facebook & Instagram) to keep informed. 

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us on July 4, 2025, for our Independence Day and Key to the City celebration. It was an honor for the City of Pinole to award the Key to the City to Tracy Walker on behalf of the late Robert Walker Jr., recognizing his remarkable 45 years of dedicated service in Public Works—the longest tenure in our city’s history. Your presence made this moment even more special!

July 18, we’re kicking off our "Movies at Fernandez Park" series with Moana 2 from 8:15 PM to 10:30 PM. Grab your blankets, coats, chairs, and movie snacks for a fun-filled evening under the stars! Our summer movie lineup continues with The Wizard of Oz on August 1 and Inside Out 2 on August 15—mark your calendars!

Last week’s Concert at Fernandez Park was a blast, and we’re keeping the good vibes going! Join us on July 24 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM for our second "Concert at Fernandez Park." Bring your lawn chair, get your groove on with incredible music, and enjoy delicious food from our featured vendors. These free summer concerts are the perfect way to soak up the season!

Thank you for everyone who already signed up for our new "Pinole Citizen Academy" program! This free, three-session interactive program offers a deep dive into City services and operations while providing opportunities for civic engagement. We’ve reached the 25-sign-up limit for our first cohort. Sign up now to secure your spot on the waitlist here. 

Thank you for making Pinole such a vibrant place to call home!

We Want to Hear From You

PINOLE CITIZEN ACADEMY

The City of Pinole is excited to launch it's First Pinole Citizen’s Academy to educate and engage Pinole residents in City operations, services, and volunteer opportunities! Through interactive sessions with City Manager and Executive team, gain behind-the-scenes insights into local government, covering topics like departmental operations, city's financial state and goals, youth services, emergency management, and more. This program is your pathway to greater civic involvement and preparing for roles in community boards and commissions. We’ve reached our 25-participant limit for the first cohort, but please sign up for the waitlist to be contacted soon or to secure priority for our next Academy in January 2026. Apply today to shape Pinole’s future!

DOES PINOLE WANT MORE PRINT OR DIGITAL OUTREACH?

The City of Pinole wants to know—would residents of Pinole prefer outreach through print or digital channels? Your feedback will help us fine-tune our approach, ensuring we reach you in the most effective way possible. This quick 5-question survey will guide us in bridging any communication gaps and better serving our community. Please take a moment to let us know your preference. Thank you, Pinole neighbors!

Upcoming Events

CITY PUBLIC MEETINGS

Planning Commission Meeting - Mon, July 28, 7pm - Zoom/City Hall

Safety and Environmental Justice Workshop - Wed, July 30, 6:00 - 8:00pm - In Person/Zoom

TAPS Meeting - Wednesday, August 6, 6:00 - 8:00pm - Zoom/City Hall

Planning Commission Meeting - Mon, August 11, 7pm - Zoom/City Hall

Planning Commission Meeting - Mon, August 25, 7pm - Zoom/City Hall 

City Council Meeting - Tues, Sept. 2, 5pm - Zoom/City Hall

Planning Commission Meeting - Mon, Sept. 8, 7pm - Zoom/City Hall

City Council Meeting - Tues, Sept. 16, 5pm - 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.

CITY-SPONSORED EVENTS

Community Cleanup - Sat, July 19, 10am-12pm - Fernandez Park Old Town Pinole

Movies at the Park Moana 2 - Friday, July 18, 8:15-10:30pm - Fernandez Park 

Concert at Fernandez Park 6Peace - Thursday, July 24, 6:00 -8:00pm - Fernandez Park

National Night Out Caravan - Tuesday, August 5, 3:00 - 5:00p

Inside the Council Chambers

Police Chief Klawuhn presents on Traffic-Related Incidents to Pinole City Council. 

HIGHLIGHTS

On July 15, 2025, Pinole Police Chief Melissa Klawuhn, Commander Justin Rogers, and Officer Amy Eubanks delivered a comprehensive presentation to the Pinole City Council on traffic-related incidents, covering data from January to June 2025. The Pinole Police Department (PD) will conduct these presentations biannually to track trends and share insights with the community, using data sourced from the PD’s RIMS CAD system.

The presentation highlighted 26 accidents at intersections, with the top three locations being San Pablo Avenue, Appian Way, and all other intersections. Among the six primary collision factors identified, "Unsafe Turning Movement" was the leading cause, accounting for 16 incidents. To enhance transparency, Chief Klawuhn introduced a heat map accessible on the Pinole Police Department’s website under “Crime Record & Surveillance Options” by selecting “Past Activity.” This tool allows residents to visualize traffic incident hotspots easily.

Chief Klawuhn also clarified a previous statement from a council meeting regarding red curb violations. Initially referencing the vehicle’s tire, she corrected that any portion of a vehicle on a red curb constitutes a violation, ensuring residents understand red curb parking regulations.

Additionally, Chief Klawuhn shared details of two grants awarded to Pinole PD to bolster traffic safety:

• Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) Grant: $50,000 to fund community outreach, officer training, personnel, and equipment, including one DUI checkpoint, a traffic motorcycle, and a speed trailer.

• Cannabis Tax Fund Grant Program (CTFGP): $99,482.16 to support community outreach, officer training, personnel, equipment, and a DUID checkpoint in collaboration with Hercules PD, including funding for a traffic motorcycle.

SHINING A LIGHT ON PINOLE'S AMAZING BUSINESS COMMUNITY

Logo of Mexihibachi

MexiHibachi – Fusing Mexican Flair with Hibachi Sizzle Since 2025 

Since January 2025, MexiHibachi has been bringing a bold fusion of Mexican and teppanyaki flavors to Pinole. What sets them apart? Their Benihana-style hibachi grill gets a Mexican twist, featuring sizzling steak and shrimp over garlic noodles, burritos stuffed with Hot Cheetos, and a housemade diablo sauce that adds a fiery taqueria kick to every dish. Their combo plates and innovative menu items are always a hit! Follow @mexihibachi for updates on new dishes and specials. Visit MexiHibachi to experience this delicious culinary mashup!

📍 Visit: 1578 Fitzgerald Dr Pinole, CA 94564

Inside of the Anytime Fitness 

Anytime Fitness – Empowering Health and Fitness Since 2014

Since August 2014, Anytime Fitness has been transforming lives through fitness in Pinole. What makes them unique? Their 24/7 access ensures you can work out on your schedule, supported by a welcoming community and expert trainers. As they celebrate their 11th anniversary this August🎉, join the excitement with their anniversary promotion: $0 to join as to where the regular rate is $198 to join. The promotion will run from July 14th through August 31st. Stay tuned for community fitness events and challenges throughout the year. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned athlete, Anytime Fitness offers personalized plans for all fitness levels. Visit Anytime Fitness to kickstart your fitness journey!

📍 Visit: 1477 Fitzgerald Dr Pinole, California 94564

🌟 BE OUR NEXT BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT!

We’re excited to launch Pinole’s Business Spotlight—a new way to highlight and celebrate the incredible businesses that make our community unique.

Each edition of the Pinole Pulse will feature:

• One new business bringing fresh energy to town, and
• One long-standing business we know and love

Sharing something exciting—like a grand opening, special offer, or anniversary? We’d be proud to spotlight your story in the Pinole Pulse!

Interested in being featured?

Submit your interest to be considered for an upcoming spotlight. To qualify, businesses must:

• Hold a valid City of Pinole business license
• Have no open code enforcement cases

Let’s celebrate Pinole’s vibrant business community—one spotlight at a time!

News & Updates

 As of July 17, 2025. Limited Trash Collection Resumes

Republic Services Trash Collection Update

Good news, starting Today, July 17, Republic Services accepts bagged recycling at the West County Resource Recovery facility (101 Pittsburg Ave., Richmond), open Thursday through Saturday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Pinole residents can drop off up to four bags with proof of residence via ID. Republic Services has resumed limited residential and commercial trash collection through Saturday, July 19, 2025. Here’s what you need to know:

• Seniors or disabled individuals: If you are unable to drop off, please can call Bielle Moore at Republic Services: 510-262-7547 or email bmoore2@republicservices.com for a no-cost curbside pickup of up to 4 trash bags per household.

• Commercial: Republic Services is servicing commercial, industrial, apartment complexes, small business and locations when notified that you need service. Please contact Bielle if you need more information. 

• Curbside Collection: Place residential garbage carts out with extra bagged trash (no additional charge). Pickups may occur on non-scheduled days, so keep carts out until serviced.

• City of Pinole Temporary Residential Drop-Off: 651 Pinole Shores Dr, Pinole, CA 94564

  • Up to 2 bags of household trash.

  • Open 24/7 until full.

  • No construction, vegetation/yard and bulky items or e-waste.

• Republic Services Drop-Off: Golden Bear Transfer Station, 1 Parr Blvd, Richmond, CA 94801

  • Up to 4 bags of household trash free (Must show ID to confirm Pinole residency).

  • Hours: Mon–Fri, 7 AM–5 PM; Sat, 9 AM–5 PM.

  • No bulky items or e-waste.

  • Free sturdy trash bags available.

• Alternative: Secure extra bags on your property for free pickup when full service resumes.

• Free Heavy-Duty Bags: Pick up 3 per household (first-come, first-serve) at City Hall, Pinole Police Department, or Pinole Senior Center. More bags will be provided as needed.

Thank you for your patience! Stay updated at www.republicservices.com.

 Dos Four kicking off the Summer Series at Fernandez Park with an outdoor concert.

A happy event-goer grooving to the music!

Concert at Fernandez Park

The Pinole community kicked off the Summer Series with a vibrant evening of music and connection at Fernandez Park’s Concert in the Park! Families and friends grooved to the infectious rhythms of Dos Four, whose dynamic live performance had everyone dancing. Attendees relaxed on lawn chairs, savored delicious bites from local food vendor, and soaked in the joyful atmosphere. This free outdoor concert brought the community together for a night of fun, unity, and celebration, setting the stage for an unforgettable summer!

"Know Your Rights" red cards are available at City Hall on the first and second floor lobbies. 

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS: RESOURCES AVAILABLE AT CITY HALL

The Pinole City Council has adopted a resolution reaffirming the City's commitment to protecting immigrant and other vulnerable communities, defending civil rights, and upholding constitutional values for all residents, workers, and visitors. As part of this commitment, “Know Your Rights” red cards are now available in English at City Hall and other public facilities throughout Pinole. These cards provide vital information to help individuals understand and exercise their legal rights, particularly in encounters with immigration authorities. Additional copies will be made available soon in Spanish, Vietnamese, and Tagalog as professional translation services are completed. More information about Stand Together Contra Costa and other available resources can be found on the City’s website under the Community Resources section.

A Greener Pinole

LIMITED-TIME REBATES: RELAUNCH OF THE PINOLE ENERGY ENHANCEMENT REBATE PROGRAM

The City of Pinole is excited to announce the relaunch of the Pinole Energy Enhancement Rebate Program (PEER)! Recent changes in regional rebates mean we've restructured the program to keep offering you substantial savings on energy-efficient home upgrades. 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. 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. Ready to save? Visit the PROJECT WEBSITE for full details. Let’s work together to make your home more energy-efficient and our community greener!

PARTICIPATE IN SHAPING BUILDING REACH CODES FROM THE CLIMATE ACTION AND ADAPTATION PLAN

In August 2024, the City adopted its inaugural Climate Action and Adaptation Plan (CAAP), a greenprint to achieve zero carbon emissions by the year 2045. A community greenhouse gas inventory shows that natural gas usage at residential and non-residential buildings comprises 32% of total community greenhouse gas emissions. A key strategy listed in the CAAP to make progress towards this goal is the adoption of reach codes to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from building energy. A reach code is a local ordinance which adds additional requirements to the state's building code in order to address issues such as greenhouse gas emissions reduction, energy efficiency, air quality, public health, safety, and more. At this time, the City is currently considering adoption of reach codes to align with CAAP goals. For example, a potential requirement may include installing electrification measures such as a heat pump space conditioning system when replacing or adding a central air conditioner, with the option still available to keep a gas furnace provided other efficiency measures are installed. Visit the project website to learn more about the policies under consideration and ways to participate and provide feedback during their development. Thanks in advance!  

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”
4. 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!

DOWNLOAD THE CITY OF PINOLE APP

In Pinole, the City of Pinole mobile app is a convenient way to stay connected to what's happening in the City of Pinole. In the event of a disaster or emergency, you can receive critical notifications and information from the City, the National Weather Service, and the Community Warning System. We encourage you to download the app today!

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.

LIMITED-TIME REBATES: RELAUNCH OF THE PINOLE ENERGY ENHANCEMENT REBATE PROGRAM

The City of Pinole is excited to announce the relaunch of the Pinole Energy Enhancement Rebate Program (PEER)! Recent changes in regional rebates mean we've restructured the program to keep offering you substantial savings on energy-efficient home upgrades. 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. 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. Ready to save? Visit the PROJECT WEBSITE for full details. Let’s work together to make your home more energy-efficient and our community greener!

Summer Series at Fernandez Park

There’s still plenty of summer fun at Fernandez Park (595 Tennent Avenue). Enjoy live music, family-friendly movies, food vendors, and lawn games under the stars. On July 18, watch Moana 2 at sundown. Then, groove to live music from 6Peace on July 24 from 6:30–8 PM. The Wizard of Oz lights up the screen on August 1, followed by a concert with Trio Sin Lio on August 7. The series wraps up with Inside Out 2 on August 15. Mark your calendar and join the summer fun!

Summer Sports Camps

Come and join the Youth Sports Camps all summer long! Register for camps at www.pinolerec.com. Scholarships are available for the month of July. Email recreation@pinole.gov with the youth participant’s full name and fate of birth to be awarded free registration.

Summer Youth Camps

Enjoy a summer full of fun with exciting camp games, hands-on arts and crafts, and a variety of engaging activities. Secure a spot today at www.pinolerec.com  and let the adventure begin.

It's Yoga Kids

Youth Yoga Classes offered for children ages 2 – 5 to explore movement, mindfulness, and fun. Classes are led by IYK® certified instructors. Scholarships available for July! Email Tinytots@pinole.gov to learn more! Register at www.pinolerec.com.

Swim Center

There’s still time to splash into summer fun! Cool off at the Swim Center (2450 Simas Ave.) with activities for all ages: enjoy Rec Swim, Aqua Zumba classes, Swim Lessons, Lap Swim, or even book a pool party. For questions, email pinoleseals.pool@gmail.com or call (510) 724-9025.

Zumba & Exercise

Stay active and energized with fitness and movement classes at the Senior Center (2500 Charles Ave.). Choose from Turbo Kick, Zumba, and Zumba Toning designed for all levels. Register for exercise classes at www.pinolerec.com.

Food Bank Distribution

The Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano County will be providing free bags of fresh produce. The next drive-thru distribution is Monday, August 11, from 9 – 10am (or as long as supplies last) at the Pinole Senior Center. For those that arrive on time, will receive one bag per household. 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 pantry 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, July 22, from 10 - 11 am. 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 you own bag with you, and you will select the items you want.

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!

COMMISSION VACANCIES

PINOLE residents are encouraged to become involved with their community and serve in an advisory capacity on a board or committee. The City of Pinole has the following vacancies:

Community Services Commission: Three (3) vacancies, two-year terms

Traffic and Pedestrian Safety Committee (TAPS): One (1) vacancy, two-year term

The City Council will fill the above identified vacancies upon consideration of applications filed with the City Clerk’s Office.

Committee Responsibilities and Meeting times:

Traffic and Pedestrian Safety Committee (TAPS)

TAPS is a five-member panel that recommends and reviews action on traffic safety, traffic control and planning, speed limits, parking, and other traffic related matters. The committee works with staff to make recommendations to the City Council. TAPS meetings take place quarterly on the second Wednesday of the month at 6:00 p.m.

Community Service Commission

The Pinole Community Services Commission is a seven-member panel that seeks to enhance quality of life for the citizens of Pinole through responsive and interactive community services. A critical aspect of the Commission is their community advocacy. They provide feedback for a number of organizations and projects. The Committee meetings take place on the fourth Wednesday of the month at 5:00 p.m.

Applications:

Completed applications and supplemental questionnaires must be submitted to the City Clerk’s office, 2131 Pear Street, Pinole 94564. A subcommittee of the City Council will conduct interviews and appointments will be made at a City Council meeting. Applications & supplemental questionnaires are available at Pinole City Hall, and may be downloaded from

the City’s website at: https://www.pinole.gov/boards-commissions/

Deadline: Please submit your application no later than 8/21/25.

For More Information Contact City Clerk Heather Bell (510) 724-8928, hbell@pinole.gov

City council supportive of City staff.