📸 Snapshot – City Council meeting agenda, United Against Hate Week, playground improvements, and more!

At the September 15 City Council Meeting, the City previewed the Collective Plans in Action report, a major milestone in our efforts to create more accountability and transparency in community engagement. In collaboration with the Canal Alliance, JLP+D consultants, and agency partners, the City catalogued 715 initiatives from 20 separate plans, projects, and programs to review their status in order to report back progress to the community.

Why it matters: For many years, the City and numerous local government agencies have conducted extensive community engagement to better understand neighborhood needs and priorities. This project is an important step in communicating back the results of that engagement.

Serving the city: While this project is focused on East San Rafael and the Canal neighborhood, the impact is much broader. The lessons learned and data from this report will shape the citywide engagement program and inform multiple upcoming planning efforts.

The big picture: We are focused on increasing transparency and accountability by reporting back on what we’ve accomplished, the challenges we’ve faced, and why some community priorities have yet to be addressed.

• Our ultimate goal is to be the most responsive City we can be.

• The final report, expected by early 2026, will include a public-facing database, summary findings, and opportunities for residents to weigh in on next steps.

On September 26, more than 100 family members and guests gathered at City Hall for the San Rafael Fire Department’s annual badge pinning ceremony. The event celebrated 10 new members of the San Rafael Fire Department team, promotions for three members, and recognition of nine members for years-of-service milestones.

The City Council has prioritized public safety and community resilience as core goals in the 2025–2028 Strategic Plan, and the City continues to invest in ensuring San Rafael has a strong, reliable emergency response system.

• We are grateful for the members of our Fire Department who protect lives daily and for the new and long-serving staff recognized at this year’s ceremony.

• Their commitment to service keeps our community safer, stronger, and better prepared for the future.

What’s next: The San Rafael Fire Department is piloting a new BLS (Basic Life Support) ambulance program and is hiring for up to 6 EMTs. This opportunity is designed for individuals who are pursuing a career in the fire/EMS services and want to gain hands-on experience in a professional environment.

• Learn more at cityofsanrafael.org/jobs and apply by October 15!

On September 20, the community gathered to celebrate the Grand Reopening of the Downtown Library, marking the completion of essential upgrades that preserve the historic building while ensuring safety and accessibility for years to come.

What they’re saying: In a recent Marin Voice column, Library & Recreation Director Catherine Quffa reflected on the importance of these improvements and looked ahead to the exciting future of a new main library and community center at Albert Park.

“Libraries are where we can meet someone new, where we can be exposed to different perspectives and where communities can grow and thrive. I believe that the role of libraries as a place of connection, discovery and wonder is especially critical in our increasingly digital and divided world.”

With the Downtown Library refreshed and new projects on the horizon, this is a milestone moment for San Rafael libraries and the community they serve. Check out the Marin IJ article here.

Laughter and excitement filled Peacock Gap Park on Friday, September 12 as families gathered to celebrate the grand reopening of the newly refurbished playground. Children climbed, swung, and explored the refreshed play space for the first time, while neighbors cheered on as Mayor Kate Colin cut the ribbon to officially open the park.

The celebration marked a fresh chapter for a beloved community spot—be sure to visit soon and see the upgrades for yourself!

In addition, Boyd Park recently held a soft reopening, giving the community a chance to enjoy its own refreshed features.

What’s next: Join us on Friday, October 10 at 5 PM for the official Pickleweed Park Ribbon Cutting, prior to Movies in the Park later that evening.

Each fall, San Rafael participates in United Against Hate Week — a week of action, education, and solidarity to stand against bias, bigotry, and discrimination. This year, United Against Hate Week will take place on October 19-25.

Why it matters: The City of San Rafael is dedicated to opposing all forms of hate within our communities; we stand with fellow California cities in denouncing rising trends of bias and bullying that have plagued our communities in recent years. United Against Hate was created by civic leaders in direct response to the sharp rise in expressions of hate in our communities.

What you can do in San Rafael:

• Show support: Pick up and display a United Against Hate Week sign in your home, school, or business.

• Join an event: Look for local activities through the City, schools, and community groups.

• Learn more: Explore books, films, and resources through the San Rafael Public Library.

• Take action: Have conversations that build understanding and belonging.

San Rafael is proud to stand with communities across the state to reject hate and build a city where everyone feels safe, respected, and included.

The City of San Rafael is looking for talented people to join our team! Please click the link below for more information about our open positions.

• Senior Management Analyst I/II

• Child Care Supervisor

• Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)

Have questions about working for the City? Please reach out to human.resources@cityofsanrafael.org.

Join us for these upcoming events in San Rafael:

Mill Valley Film Festival, October 2–12, all day, Multiple locations

• Enjoy 11 days of U.S. and international films, documentaries, family favorites, and special guests. Screenings take place at the Smith Rafael Film Center (San Rafael) and other locations across the Bay Area.

West End Block Party, October 3 and 10, 6-9 p.m., Downtown San Rafael

• The stretch from F to G Streets transforms into a lively celebration with music, food, and community spirit. Sponsored by Pint Size Lounge.

2nd Friday Art Walk, October 10, 5-8 p.m., Downtown San Rafael

• Free public art walk featuring galleries, open studios, and exhibits throughout downtown San Rafael. Anchored by Art Works Downtown.

Pickleweed Park Ribbon Cutting, October 10, 5-7 p.m., Pickleweed Park

• Celebrate upgrades at Pickleweed Park, including a play area, exercise equipment, and soccer field. Ribbon cutting and park tours begin at 5 p.m.

Películas en el parque (Movies in the Park): Mufasa, October 10, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Pickleweed Park

• Bring a blanket and enjoy a free family-friendly screening of Mufasa under the stars. In Spanish with English subtitles. Movie begins 10 minutes after sunset.

Public Safety Center Open House, October 11, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., San Rafael Public Safety Center

• Family-friendly event with live demonstrations from the Police and Fire Departments, including K9 demonstrations.

Halloween Costume Swap, October 14, 4-6 p.m., Pickleweed Park

• Bring gently used or unused costumes to swap or take home at no cost.

Floating Pumpkin Patch, October 18, 1-3 p.m., Terra Linda Community Pool

• Pick your pumpkin in the pool, enjoy decorating, and participate in fun games. Registration includes pumpkin, pool entry, and activities.

2nd Annual Treat Walk, October 23, 4-6 p.m., San Rafael Community Center

• Family-friendly Halloween event with treats, pumpkin decorating, face painting, games, and more. Hosted by San Rafael Library & Community Center.

Movies in the Park, October 24, 7:15-9 p.m., Terra Linda Park

• Family-friendly films under the stars. Free screenings begin 10 minutes after sunset. Bring a blanket for a cozy outdoor movie night.

37th Annual Dia de los Muertos Celebration, November 1, 3-9 p.m., Albert J. Boro Community Center

• Celebrate Dia de los Muertos with family art activities, music, face painting, and cultural performances.

Plus, there’s always something happening at the library! Check out the San Rafael Library event calendar!