Greetings from the City Manager

Happy New Year and welcome to 2026, Pinole! 🎉

January is kicking off with incredible energy — it's the perfect time to reconnect, discover new adventures, and celebrate everything that makes our vibrant community so special! Our dedicated City team is energized and ready to deliver an awesome lineup of events, activities, and programs for every age group.

Don't miss the action: City Council meetings take place on the first and third Tuesdays of each month at 5:00 PM in City Hall (2131 Pear Street). Catch them live on Pinole Community TV, online via PCTV streaming, or Roku/Apple TV/Amazon Fire — a fantastic way to stay in the loop on all the exciting initiatives, infrastructure projects, and community plans shaping our future!

Starting this month, I will be launching new Open Office Hours to make it easier for residents to connect directly. Drop by for a friendly chat, share your ideas, ask questions, or simply say hello in a relaxed setting on Wednesdays, between 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM at 880 Tennent Ave, Pinole, CA 94564 (Pinole Police Department). Appointment needed — you can schedule a spot in advance by contacting the Pinole PD office at 510-724-8955 or police@pinole.gov.

On behalf of the Pinole City Council and our hardworking staff, we're truly honored to serve this amazing community. Here's to making 2026 an unforgettable year full of connection, growth, creativity, and Pinole pride.

Stay tuned, get involved, and let's shine bright together!

Upcoming Events

CITY PUBLIC MEETINGS

Planning Commission Meeting  - Mon, Jan. 26, 7pm - Zoom/City Hall

Community Services Commission Meeting -Jan. 28, 5pm - Zoom/City Hall

City Council Meeting  - Tues, Feb. 3, 5:00pm - Zoom/City Hall

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

City Council Meeting  - Tues, Feb. 17, 5:00pm - Zoom/City Hall

Waste Water Subcommittee Meeting - Thurs., Feb. 19, 7pm - Zoom/City Hall

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

Community Services Commission Meeting -Feb. 25, 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.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

Road Repair & Rehabilitation Town Hall - Thurs, Jan. 22, 5:30-7:30pm - Zoom/City Hall

Pinole Pollinator Pathway 2026 - Sat, Feb. 7, 10:00am - 11:30am - Fernandez Park

Pinole Creek Cleanup - Sat, Feb. 21, 10am-12pm - Fernandez Park

Tiny Tots Open House - Sat, Feb. 21, 9:30am - 12:00 noon 

HOLIDAY CLOSURE

City Hall and Community Services facilities will be closed to the public on Monday, Feb. 16, 2026 in observance of President's Day

TONIGHT: ROAD REPAIR & REHABILITATION TOWN HALL

Join us for Pinole’s Road Repair & Rehabilitation Town Hall on Thursday, January 22, 5:30-7:30pm. The City has prepared a community presentation on upcoming roadway improvements and maintenance efforts. The Town Hall will include an overview of planned projects, funding, and timelines, followed by a brief Q&A session. City officials will be available for individual questions and discussion following the presentation.

The event will take place in the Pinole City Hall Council Chambers on 2131 Pear Street. Light refreshments will be served and hands-on activities will give residents an interactive opportunity to learn more about the City’s plans and share feedback.

Can’t make it in person? The event will be in a hybrid format and offers multiple ways to watch and participate:

Zoom webinar Webinar ID: 836 2491 6678 Meeting passcode: 610476

Livestream (multilingual translation and closed captioning available)

Watch Pinole Community TV on Comcast cable channel 26/28 or via Pinole.gov/PCTV, Roku, Apple TV, or Amazon Fire. 

Participate by phone: 855-925-2801 Meeting code: 3823

The event will be recorded and replayed on Pinole Community TV. Residents can also share input about road rehabilitation via email UH7786@publicinput.com. Learn more about Pinole’s road rehabilitation.

Inside the Council Chambers

Mayor Tave with Captain Brian George, who received the Firefighter of the Year Award. 

Officer Andre Roberts, recipient of the Police Officer of the Year Award, expressed appreciation to council.

From left to right: Councilmember Toms, Mayor Pro Tem Murphy, Captain George, Officer Roberts, Mayor Tave, and Councilmember Sasai.

HIGHLIGHTS FROM COUNCIL

At its January 20, 2026 meeting, the Pinole City Council honored outstanding public safety service by awarding proclamations to Captain Brian George of Contra Costa Fire as Firefighter of the Year and Officer Andre Roberts of the Pinole Police Department as Police Officer of the Year. Both were recognized for their dedication and exceptional contributions to the community.

During a Public Hearing, City Council considered the final step in establishing a lighting assessment district associated with the Appian Village 154-unit condominium development, as required under Proposition 218. Assessment district funds would be collected annually to cover the portion of ongoing operation, maintenance, and related costs for street lighting and traffic signal equipment that provides a special benefit to properties within the district—approximately 70% of total costs—while the remaining 30%, which reflects the general benefit to the broader public, would be funded through the City’s General Fund or another funding source. The property owner voted in affirmation of the assessment district and City Council approved the resolution establishing the lighting district. Assessments will begin in fiscal year 26/27.

View the full meeting video and presentations.

Shining a Light on Pinole's Amazing Business Community

Dave's Hot Chicken – Pinole’s Fiery New Chicken Spot 🔥

Join us in welcoming Dave's Hot Chicken to Pinole which opened in December 2025! This fast-casual sensation brings legendary hot chicken — juicy, hand-breaded, ultra-crispy tenders and sliders with a seven-level heat scale from No Spice all the way to the blazing Reaper.

What sets them apart? Bold addictive flavors, generous portions, and crave-worthy sides that keep locals lining up. Whether you like it mild or full-on fire, this spot delivers that perfect "blow your mind" taste in a fun, energetic vibe.

Stop by for lunch, dinner, or late-night cravings — Pinole’s hottest new addition is here!

📍 Visit: 2714 Pinole Valley Road, Pinole, CA 94564

Bear Claw Bakery – Pinole’s Timeless Family Baking Tradition Since 1982 🥐

For over 40 years 🎉, Bear Claw Bakery has been Pinole’s beloved, family-owned haven for fresh-baked goodness! What sets this local gem apart? A multi-generational commitment to old-world European recipes backed by over 100 years of baking experience, daily baking with the highest-quality ingredients, and that rare small-business warmth and personal service.

From flaky Danish pastries and morning coffee treats to hearty sandwiches, and custom cakes for every occasion, the Stott family (Mike, Terri, and the next generation) keeps traditions alive while evolving to delight our community. Stop by for a classic bear claw, a fresh salad, or just to feel the multi-generational hospitality — Pinole’s iconic bakery keeps our mornings sweet, afternoons savory, and our hearts full, one delicious bite at a time!

📍 Visit: 2340 San Pablo Ave, Pinole, CA 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

EXCITING NEWS FOR PINOLE RESIDENTS

The City of Pinole Finance Team is thrilled to introduce our brand-new Pinole Budget Dashboard! This innovative tool enhances transparency and accessibility, allowing residents to explore our city's finances like never before.

Discover insightful visualizations, including:  

• Budget vs. Actual Spending
• Overview of Revenues and Expenditures
• How Your Tax Dollars Enhance Daily Services

CITY SEEKS INPUT ON PROPOSED GAS STATION ORDINANCE

The City of Pinole is considering an ordinance that would prohibit new gas fueling stations and limit the expansion of existing ones as part of its broader climate planning efforts. The draft ordinance will be reviewed at the Planning Commission meeting on January 26, 2026, and will be updated based on feedback. Following the Planning Commission meeting, a  new community survey and revised ordinance will be posted. City Council is expected to consider the ordinance in March. View the results from the previous survey.

A Greener Pinole

PINOLE IS GOING GREEN -- FAST!

We're expanding instant online permitting beyond solar to include EV chargers, heat pumps, HVAC systems, reroofing, and more—all fully code-compliant. Thanks to grant funding, this upgrade will come at no cost to taxpayers, plus free permits for heat pump installations and stacked local, state, and federal rebates. Launching fully in the coming weeks, this initiative makes sustainable home improvements easier, faster, and more affordable for our community. Learn more: https://www.pinole.gov/instant-permitting-for-residential-energy-projects/

PINOLE CREEK CLEANUPS CONTINUE INTO FALL AND WINTER

Join the dedicated Friends of Pinole Creek Watershed on Saturday, February 21, 10am-12pm at Fernandez Park. Your stewardship will make a big impact in the community by ridding the Pinole Creek Watershed of trash and debris, making a safer, cleaner community.

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!

TINY TOTS OPEN HOUSE

Come join the fun at Tiny Tots! Tour the facility, meet the staff, and explore everything Tiny Tots has to offer at our Open House on Saturday, February 21, 2026, from 9:30 AM–12:00 PM at 2454 Simas Avenue. For questions, please contact tinytots@pinole.gov or call (510) 724-8965.

Presidents’ Week Camp (Ages 3–12)

Get ready for an unforgettable school break at Pinole’s Presidents’ Week Camps! Campers will enjoy fun camp games, creative arts and crafts, active play, exciting sports, musical activities, and thrilling adventures. Camps run from February 17–20 and include Sunny Smiles (ages 3–5) at 2454 Simas Avenue and Sunshine Adventure (ages 6–12) at 635 Tennent Avenue, with sessions held 9:00 AM–4:00 PM. For questions, please email recreation@pinole.gov or call (510) 724-9800. Registration today 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, February 9, 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, January 27, 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.

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.

Sports Field Rental Update

All Pinole sports fields will be closed for maintenance and will reopen on Monday, February 16, 2026. For questions, please email recreation@pinole.gov or contact (510) 724-9800.

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!