Greetings from the City Manager

Hello, Amazing Pinole Residents! 

May’s sunny days are truly a gift, and I hope you’re all enjoying the warmth and energy filling our city! There’s nothing quite like seeing Pinole glow under these bright blue skies, with neighbors out savoring the season. 

As Memorial Day nears, let us pause to honor those who gave their lives for our country. Their selflessness reminds us of the power of community, sacrifice, and the values that unite us. Let’s keep their memory close as we gather with loved ones. May they never be forgotten.

I’m excited to share that our newsletter, The Pulse, is launching a new “Business Spotlight” segment! Each edition will celebrate both our new and longstanding Pinole businesses, showcasing the heart and soul of our local economy. Stay tuned to cheer on the entrepreneurs who make our city thrive.

Thank you to all of you who joined us for Community services day on May 17th! Seeing your volunteerism is always a wonderful sight! Thank you also for those who joined our budget workshop on May 13th, or submitted information in our survey. On June 3rd, we will present our revised budget for its final review before approval on June 16th. Please let us know if you have any questions or any items you would like to discuss.

I’d love for you to join me for “Coffee with the City Manager” on Friday, June 6th, 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 I’m so looking forward to meeting you there! I still hold my office hours every Thursday from 3pm to 4pm, so also feel free to join me then or by appointment.

Mark your calendars for the Pride and Juneteenth Celebration on June 8th from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Fernandez Park! Join us for a vibrant day of music, dance, food trucks, vendors, and children’s activities as we honor the journey toward equality and justice. I can’t wait to celebrate with you! 

May calls us to celebrate our shared history, honor those who’ve served, and embrace the spirit of togetherness that defines Pinole. Let’s keep building a brighter future, side by side, with hearts full of hope. 

We Want to Hear From You

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!

CONTRA COSTA HEALTH WANTS YOUR FEEDBACK

Contra Costa Health is gathering feedback as part of the Community Program Planning Process under the Behavioral Health Services Act (BHSA). As an important and vital stakeholder in our system, we would like to hear from you. As part of efforts under the Behavioral Health Transformation which aims to modernize behavioral health by improving accountability, increasing transparency, and expanding the capacity of behavioral health care facilities for thousands of eligible California residents, CC Health is asking  you to participate in this process. Please complete the electronic survey, and/or attend a virtual Town Hall. Your feedback will help inform and shape mental health and substance use treatment services in our county. 

Upcoming Events

CITY PUBLIC MEETINGS

City Council Meeting - Tues, June 3, 5pm - Zoom/City Hall

Planning Commission Meeting - Mon, June 9, 7pm - Zoom/City Hall

City Council Meeting - Tues, June 17, 5pm - Zoom/City Hall

Planning Commission Meeting - Mon, June 23, 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

Coffee with the City Manager - Fri, June 6, 8:30-9:30am - City Hall Community Room

Pride & Juneteenth Celebration - Sun, June 8, 12-3pm - Fernandez Park

Pancake Breakfast - Sun, June 22, 7-10am - Senior Center

OTHER EVENTS

Contra Costa Fish Migration Day – Sat, May 31, 10am-2pm - Pinole Fish Passage

Pinole Classic Car Show - Sun, June 22, 9am-2pm - Downtown Pinole

**City of Pinole facilities will be closed to the public in observance of Memorial Day on Monday, May 27th.

Inside the Council Chambers

Pinole City Council members with members of City staff at the dais.

Pinole City Council recognized several proclamations in honor of the following: Affordable Housing Month, Emergency Medical Services Week, Asian and Pacific Islander Month, Jewish American Heritage Month, Mental Health Awareness Month, and Local Community and History Month. 

HIGHLIGHTS

Marlia Holmes, Manager of the Pinole Library, gave a presentation about the wide range of services and programs offered to the community. Library cardholders can check out up to 100 items, access digital resources, and participate in the Discover & Go pass program. The library hosts several family-friendly programs and special events such as teen movie nights, free student meals, legal services for seniors, and unique experiences like "Read to a Dog" and marionette shows. Ms. Holmes provided an update about upcoming library renovations: new HVAC system and roof, upgraded electrical and lighting, and ADA improvements. Remodeling is expected to take place from February 2026 through November 2026 - during this time the library will be closed. 

A member of CORE reports on statistics from the City of Pinole. 

The CORE (Coordinated Outreach, Referral, and Engagement) presentation to the Pinole City Council on May 20, 2025, highlighted the urgent housing challenges in Contra Costa County and Pinole, where rents are high and homelessness is rising. In 2024, CORE served 55 individuals in Pinole—most with deep local roots—providing services such as housing placements, health referrals, shelter transport, and encampment support. The team reported that 41% of those who exited CORE's services moved into stable housing, with 90% remaining housed after six months. A featured case study demonstrated successful long-term outreach leading to stable shelter and progress toward permanent housing.

Calling 211 is the most effective way to reach CORE dispatch for families facing imminent housing loss. CORE actively conducts community outreach to businesses and other key locations to identify those in need, then coordinates with city partners and law enforcement to provide assistance. Although shelter beds only meet about 30% of the demand, they are carefully managed and turned over daily, prioritizing the most vulnerable individuals—such as the elderly, medically frail, and families with children—to ensure their safety and prevent deaths outdoors. City council approved a resolution executing an agreement with Contra Costa County CORE Homeless Outreach Services for Fiscal Year 2025-2026. 

Pinole City Council also approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Contra Costa County to support the development of the Contra Costa Resilient Shoreline Plan, aligning with state-mandated requirements under Senate Bill 272. The County was awarded a $1.5 million grant from the Ocean Protection Council to fund the effort, which includes collaboration and compensation for shoreline cities like Pinole. While the MOU does not require a financial contribution from the City, it does involve a limited staff commitment, which may be reduced if additional funding for the joint Pinole-Hercules plan is approved. As part of the agreement, Pinole will receive semiannual reimbursements of $6,775 through April 2027 or until the project’s completion.

SHINING A LIGHT ON PINOLE'S AMAZING BUSINESS COMMUNITY

Inside Flow Rehab Studio with owner Nakia Farah—bringing wellness, Pilates, and positive energy to Pinole.

Flow Rehab Studio – Your New Hub for Wellness and Recovery

New to Pinole since May 2025, Flow Rehab Studio is bringing innovative Pilates and wellness services to Pinole. What makes them special? They offer personalized wellness programs designed to empower your health and vitality. They’re thrilled to join the Pinole community and help everyone move better! Join them for their Meet & Greet this Saturday, May 24, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, featuring light refreshments, a sneak peek at their offerings, and all the good vibes! Stop by to welcome Flow Rehab Studio to our community!

📍 Visit: 2221 Pear St, Pinole CA 9456

Outside Tandoor Restaurant—serving up authentic Nepalese and Indian flavors since 2017.

Tandoor Restaurant – Authentic Nepalese & Indian Flavors Shine

Since June 5, 2017, Tandoor Restaurant has been serving authentic Nepalese and Indian cuisine at Pinole. What sets them apart? Their dishes are crafted with traditional recipes and fresh ingredients, bringing the vibrant tastes of Nepal and India to Pinole. Next month, they’re celebrating their 8th anniversary🎉 with a free appetizer for all dine-in and take-out orders on June 5! Stop by Tandoor Restaurant to show your support!

📍 Visit: 2554 Appian Way, Pinole, CA

🌟 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

Overgrown weeds like the ones pictured here pose a fire risk. 

HELP KEEP OUR COMMUNITY SAFE BY CLEARING WEEDS

Fire season is here, and Pinole property owners are reminded of their responsibility to clear weeds and dry vegetation by May 31 to help reduce the risk of wildfires and structure fires. After that date, City staff will begin inspections, and if issues are found, a courtesy notice will be issued with 10 days to comply. If not addressed, the City will arrange for the work and pass the cost on to the property owner. Additionally, Pinole’s Fire Hazard Severity Zones have been updated, redesignating some areas as moderate risk instead of a high fire risk. Residents are encouraged to view the maps of affected areas on Con Fire’s website: https://www.cccfpd.org/lra-maps/. Let’s work together to keep our community fire-safe.

YOUTH RIDE FREE ON WESTCAT JUNE 1 - JULY 31

This summer, WestCAT is launching the Youth Ride Free summer program, allowing young people up to 18 years old to ride any WestCAT bus for free from June 1 to July 31!  This initiative aims to enhance mobility, connect youth to vital resources, and foster social interactions. For more details, visit WestCAT’s Youth Ride Free page at www.westcat.org/youthride

Reminders

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!

HOW TO REPORT POTHOLES

Report potholes by calling (510) 724-9010 or submit a request online. Please be prepared to describe the location of the pothole. Over the past month, our Public Works team patched 39 potholes (and counting) in Pinole!

YOUTH SUMMER CAMPS

Get ready for an unforgettable season! Now offering Summer Camps for youth ages 3–12. Camps are packed with exciting activities, interactive games, creative arts and crafts, fun-filled sports, and hands-on adventures your child will love. Spots fill quickly, so register today at www.pinolerec.com.

IT'S YOGA KIDS

Join a new youth program now offering yoga classes designed for children ages 2–5 to explore movement, mindfulness, and fun!  Classes are led by IYK® certified instructors.  Scholarships are available for June. Don't miss out, register at www.pinolerec.com.
ZUMBA CLASSES & MORE
Get your fitness on with Zumba and other exercise classes.  Enjoy various classes that specialize in aerobics, movement, and strength-training. Classes include Turbo Kick, Zumba, Zumba Toning, Fitness Games, and Floor Exercise. Register for exercise classes at www.pinolerec.com.

SWIM CENTER NOW OPEN

The Swim Center is officially open for the Spring season, now through June 15. Join the group on Saturdays and Sundays for aquatic adventures. Enjoy Aqua Zumba classes, swim lessons, lap swimming, or book a pool party with friends and family. Learn more at www.pinole.gov/swimcenter.

PRIDE AND JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION

Join the City of Pinole’s Pride and Juneteenth Celebration which will be held on Sunday, June 8 from 12 -3pm at Fernandez Park. Come out and enjoy a day of celebration with musical performances, food trucks, local vendors, and children’s activities. If you are interested in tabling or being a food vendor, please visit www.pinole.gov/vendor.

CAR SHOW PANCAKE BREAKFAST

Enjoy a wonderful breakfast on Sunday, June 22nd from 7 - 10am at the Senior Center (2500 Charles Ave.) for a Pancake Breakfast. Kick off the Pinole Car Show with a delicious breakfast which includes pancakes, scrambled eggs, sausage, bacon, orange juice, and coffee. Tickets for pancake breakfast are $12 and can be purchased on the day of the event or in advance online at www.pinolerec.com.  

JULY 4TH CELEBRATION

Enjoy a joyous July 4th Celebration on Friday, July 4th from 6:30 - 9:30pm at Pinole Valley High School. Enjoy an action-packed holiday celebration filled with food vendors, children's activities, a community parade, and a live drone show at sundown.

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, June 9, 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, May 27, 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.

RENT OUR PARKS, FIELDS, AND FACILITIES

Secure your reservation at pinole parks, fields, and rental facilities today!  Reserve your space online at www.pinolerec.com or reach out via email at rentals@pinole.gov for more information. Let's make your event unforgettable!

FOOD AND EVENT VENDORS

Join 2025 events lineup! Are you passionate about sharing your delicious creations or unique offerings with the community? Showcase your food, products, or services at one of our upcoming events. Visit www.pinole.gov/vendor to complete the interest form.

INSTRUCTOR CALL OUT

Calling for instructors interested in teaching classes or offering programs. Do you have a passion for teaching? Do you have a talent or skill you would like to share with the community? If your answer is yes, please email recreation@pinole.gov for more information.

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!

City council supportive of City staff.