We Want to Hear From You

HOW CAN WE STRENGTHEN SAFETY & ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE ELEMENTS IN THE GENERAL PLAN?

The City of Pinole is updating its General Plan to strengthen community safety and advance environmental justice and health for all residents. These updates will help guide how we prepare for and respond to hazards such as wildfires, flooding, drought, hazardous materials, and climate change, while also promoting equity in areas like clean air, safe environments, civic engagement, and opportunities for future generations. We want to hear from you! Your input will help shape a safer, healthier, and more equitable Pinole. Please take a few minutes to complete the survey and share your voice in guiding the future of our city.

ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT (ADU) CAMPAIGN

The City of Pinole is a pro-housing jurisdiction designated by the Department of Housing and Community Development through its commitment to combat the housing crisis by developing policies and programs that support affordable housing in Pinole while supporting the community. Accessory Dwelling Units, or ADUs, can help alleviate the housing crisis by offering more affordable options for renters.

What is an ADU? An ADU is a dwelling unit on the same parcel as a primary single-family or multifamily dwelling and contains complete independent living facilities including permanent facilities for sleeping, living, eating, cooking, and sanitation. They are accessory to the primary dwelling and may be attached, detached or located within a residence.

If you are a homeowner, renter, architect/designer, ADU or Junior ADU owner, we want to hear your thoughts so that we can best support your needs.

Upcoming Events

CITY PUBLIC MEETINGS

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

City Council Meeting - Tues, Sept. 16, 5pm - Zoom/City Hall

Traffic & Pedestrian Safety Committee - Wed, Sept. 16, 5pm - Zoom/City Hall

Planning Commission Meeting - Mon, Sept. 22, 7pm - Zoom/City Hall 

Wastewater Subcommittee Meeting - Thurs, Oct. 2, 7pm - 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

Coastal Cleanup Day - Sat, Sept. 20, 8:30am-12pm - Bayfront Park

Step-By-Step Making your Home More Accessible - Thurs, Sept. 25, 12-1pm - Senior Center

Coffee with the City Manager - Fri, Sept. 26, 8:30-9:30am - Community Room (City Hall)

Halloween-Themed National Night Out - Tues, Oct. 7, 5-8pm - Fernandez Park

Power Smarts: Boosting Energy Efficiency at Home - Thurs, Oct. 9, 12-1pm - Senior Center

Dumpster Day - Sat, Oct. 11, 7-11am - Pinole Valley Park

COFFEE WITH THE CITY MANAGER 

Join us for “Coffee with the City Manager” on Friday, September 26th, from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. in the Community Room at Pinole City Hall. Come grab a cup of coffee, share your thoughts, and let’s chat about what’s on your mind. It’s a perfect chance to connect, and we are looking forward to meeting you there! 

Inside the Council Chambers

Community Development Director Lilly Whalen accepted the proclamation for Building Staff Appreciation Day.

Pinole City Council recognized the following with proclamations: World Suicide Prevention Day and Suicide Prevention Week, Rosh Hashanah, Constitution Day, and Building Staff Appreciation Day. City Council issues proclamations to formally recognize and honor significant events, achievements, causes, or individuals that contribute to the community’s well-being and identity.

HIGHLIGHTS FROM CITY COUNCIL

At Tuesday's meeting, the Pinole City Council approved a resolution amending the City’s Master Fee Schedule to establish a $40 fine for parking near intersections in violation of California’s Assembly Bill 413, also known as the “Daylighting Law.” This update aligns the City’s regulations with state law, which prohibits vehicles from parking within 20 feet of crosswalks (or 15 feet where curb extensions are present) to improve visibility and enhance pedestrian safety.

The Pinole City Council also adopted a resolution to accept $645,000 in Subregional Transportation Mitigation Program (STMP) funds and $1,020,000 in One Bay Area Grant (OBAG) funds for CIP Project RO1902: Pedestrian Improvements at Tennent–Bay Trail. These grant funds will support final design and construction of the long-planned project to close a critical 600-foot gap along Tennent Avenue, improve pedestrian and bicycle safety at the Union Pacific Railroad crossing, and enhance access to Bayfront Park and the Bay Trail. The resolution also authorizes the City Manager to execute the necessary agreements and documents to secure the funding.

Watch the meeting video and view the full agenda packet here. 

News & Updates

JUST IN: YEAR IN REVIEW & LOOK AHEAD REPORT

The City of Pinole is pleased to announce the release of the Fiscal Year 2024/25 Year in Review and Fiscal Year 2025/26 Look Ahead report. This annual publication provides residents and stakeholders with a comprehensive overview of the City’s progress and priorities. The report highlights the City Council’s policy focus areas, key accomplishments, and major initiatives completed during Fiscal Year (FY) 2024/25. It also features department highlights that showcase the work being done across the organization to maintain essential services, enhance community programs, and improve City facilities. Looking forward, the report outlines the goals and initiatives planned for Fiscal Year 2025/26. This year’s report aligns with the City’s fiscal year cycle which begins July 1st and ends June 30th. Printed copies will be made available at City facilities and the Pinole Library on September 9. If you would like a copy mailed to you, please email cityhall@pinole.gov or call (510) 954-3468.

Tennent Avenue view from ground-level.

AN UPDATE ON PINOLE'S ROADS

City Council has approved an ambitious road and infrastructure improvement plan for a five-year period starting with FY 2025/26 to address long-standing needs that have compounded over past years due to limited funding and deferred maintenance. Road rehabilitation will be addressed holistically to enhance safety, accessibility, and the overall quality of life for our residents and visitors while making strategic use of state, regional, and local funds.

Key projects include pavement rehabilitation with long-term improvements such as slurry seal, cape seal, and reconstruction that will be funded by the following sources in FY 2025/26: $750,000 (Measure J), $1,500,000 (Gas Tax), and $1,000,000 (Vehicle Impact Fees). For this first year of the City’s Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), priority pavement rehabilitation projects were identified by evaluating several factors including road usage, served traffic generators such as schools, and Pavement Condition Index (PCI). Identified priority roads are Pinole Valley Road (including safety/complete street elements), Sarah Drive, and Shea Drive.

It should be noted that other key projects contained in the CIP include upgrades to signage and markings to meet state standards, upgrade to street lighting, and safety enhancements such as pedestrian crossing improvements and traffic calming measures. The CIP also advances major infrastructure investments, including the replacement of the San Pablo Avenue Bridge, updates to the City’s ADA Transition Plan, and improvements across facilities, parks, stormwater, and sanitary sewer systems. Together, these projects represent a long-term investment in creating safer and more resilient streets, utilities, and public facilities for the Pinole community.

SAVE THE DATE: Roads Information Town Hall - Thursday, Nov. 20, 5:30-7:30pm at the Pinole Senior Center

We will continue to keep you updated as the City’s work progresses and construction begins! Read more details about the Capital Improvement Plan and the aforementioned road projects. 

Actual footage of Pinole Creek during the Pinole flood in 2005 (photo courtesy of PCTV). 

ARE YOU READY FOR AN EMERGENCY?

September is National Preparedness Month, and there's no better time to ensure that you're emergency-ready than right now. Communities across the country recognize National Preparedness Month as a reminder that disaster readiness starts at home. This year’s theme encourages everyone to take small, practical steps to stay safe and resilient. Begin by understanding the risks most likely to affect our area, then make a family emergency plan with clear evacuation routes, meeting spots, and communication details. Build an emergency supply kit with essentials such as water, food, medications, and a “go-bag” ready to use at a moment’s notice. Finally, consider getting involved locally by learning first aid, joining a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), or helping neighbors prepare. These simple actions today can make all the difference when emergencies happen. To learn more, visit ready.gov/september.

UPCOMING EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS EVENTS:

Emergency Preparedness Fair - (TONIGHT) Thurs, Sept. 4, 5:30-8:30pm - Todos Santos Plaza, Concord

• Learn how to prepare for disasters of all kinds, use a fire extinguisher, shut off your utilities, access short wave radio communication, and more. Hosted by the City of Concord.

Introduction to Emergency Management Seminar - Thurs, Sept. 11, 9am-12pm - 1850 Muir Rd. Martinez

• Join agencies, nonprofits, and community based organizations to learn how we work together before, during, and after disasters.
• If you are a Community-Based Organization (CBO), you may be eligible for a $500 stipend

Doughnut Disaster Festival - Sat, Oct. 11, 8am-11pm - Crockett

• A choose-your-adventure journey designed to empower the community to thrive no matter what challenges come our way.
• Learn about Doughnut Economics disaster preparedness and resilience strategies

Safe & Ready: Home Safety and Emergency Preparedness - Thursday November 6, 13 and 20th, 12-1pm - Pinole Senior Center

• A three-part series on November 6, 13 and 20 focusing on essential steps to protect yourself and your home before a crisis.
• Presented by Contra Costa Fire Protection District and made possible due to the generous support of AARP through the AARP Community Challenge.

STAY CONNECTED WITH THE CITY OF PINOLE MOBILE APP

📲 Stay safe, Pinole! The new City of Pinole app delivers critical alerts, public safety updates, and local news right to your phone. The Community Warning System and National Weather Service alerts are also integrated. Stay informed about what's happening in your area - download today!

A group of happy Pinole Citizen's Academy graduates pose with their certificates. 

PINOLE CELEBRATES THE FIRST COHORT OF CITIZENS ACADEMY GRADUATES 

The City of Pinole is proud to recognize the very first graduating class of the Pinole Citizens Academy (August 2025). The Pinole Citizens Academy is a free program that gives residents a behind-the-scenes look at City services, operations, and opportunities for civic engagement. Over the course of the program, participants gained a behind-the-scenes look at how their city operates, engaged with staff and leadership, and built lasting connections within the community. A special thank you goes to City staff and instructors who dedicated their time and expertise to make the Academy a success. 

Congratulations to the Class of August 2025:

Alexander Nguyen • Brian Kerss • Carl Blake • Christina Lok • Daulvin McCarthy • Donna Steinrok • Doris Person • Elvin Briones Jr. • Gregory Hagel • Hannah Emery • James Julian • Jesson de Leon • John Robinson • Joyce Sexton • Robert Sexton • Kaila Vidal • Mariela Labrada • Muriel Rollins • Panu Loui • Rachel Flynn • Stanley Friedman • Stann Whipple • Tracy Walker • Charlene Davis • Kapil Amin • Karl-Jason Madayag • Nazmieh Huebner

Kim Swartz speaks to neighbors and members of the community about her missing daughter.

REMEMBERING AMBER SWARTZ 

The search for answers continues in the case of Amber Swartz, who was last seen 37 years ago in Pinole. Amber would have turned 45 on Tuesday, August 19, 2025. To honor her memory, Amber’s mother, Kim Swartz, gathered with community members, PCTV, the Pinole Police Department, City Council, and City officials at Amber Swartz Park. The gathering served as a powerful reminder that the search for answers is not over.

OVERNIGHT LANE CLOSURES ON I-80 THROUGHOUT SEPTEMBER

Caltrans is making safety upgrades between Appian Way (Pinole) and Carlson Blvd (Albany) through September 2025. Work includes barrier repairs, striping, and lighting. Expect weeknight lane closures, 9 PM–6 AM. For real-time traffic, visit: QuickMap

A Greener Pinole

PINOLE IS 1 OF 30 CITIES DESIGNATED AS A CLEAN CALIFORNIA COMMUNITY

The City of Pinole is proud to announce that it has officially earned the designation of a “Clean California Community” from Caltrans’ Clean CA initiative, joining a select group of communities across the state recognized for leadership in California’s Zero Litter movement. Over the past several months, Pinole volunteers and neighbors have rallied alongside City staff and elected officials to implement long-term litter prevention, beautification, and environmental enhancement efforts, demonstrating a strong commitment to keeping our community clean, healthy, and beautiful. As part of this recognition, Pinole will receive official signage, educational resources, and statewide recognition through Clean California and Keep California Beautiful. More information about the Clean CA Designation.

LAST CHANCE TO SAVE ON EV'S

Federal tax credits of $7,500 for new electric vehicles and up to $4,000 for used EVs are still available—but only until September 30 due to recent federal policy changes. This is a great opportunity for residents to save money while making the switch to clean, affordable driving. Don’t miss out—learn how to maximize your savings by signing up for a free upcoming webinar at rideanddriveclean.org/events.

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!  

LIMITED-TIME REBATES FOR THE PEER 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!

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!

SWIM CENTER

Dive into fun at the Swim Center (2450 Simas Ave.) with Rec Swim, Lap Swim, Aqua Zumba, swim lessons, and even pool parties! Fall swim starts August 23. Visit www.pinole.gov/swimcenter to see the full schedule and programs. For questions, contact pinoleseals.pool@gmail.com or (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, Zumba Toning, and Circuit & Fitness Training designed for all levels. Register for exercise classes at www.pinolerec.com.

HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIR- REGISTRATION OPENS SOON

Mark your calendars! The Holiday Craft Fair will be held on Saturday, November 15th at the Senior Center. Registration opens for Senior Center members on Monday, September 8, and for the general public on Tuesday, September 9. If you have any questions, please email mjamison@pinole.gov.

BECOME AN INSTRUCTOR AT THE SENIOR CENTER

Do you enjoy working with the community? Are you passionate about working with seniors? Is there a class you would like to offer and be an instructor? Please email mjamison@pinole.gov for more information.

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. 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.

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!

PAL AMBASSADORS ARE NEEDED! Join our volunteer team to assist during workshops. This is a great way to give back to your community. The next workshop is Thursday, September 25th at the Senior Center from 12-1pm.