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City Manager's Update | September 5, 2025

Post Date:09/05/2025 10:30 AM

Good morning, Monrovians!

This past Tuesday evening, the City Council received an annual report for our Monrovia Public Library....my goodness has the Library been busy! Perhaps the truest reflection of our community’s energy, curiosity, and love of learning, one Council member even said, "This is why the Library is the center of our community!" With your support and participation, together, we saw program participation grow nearly 30%, with nearly 26,000 residents joining story times, workshops, and special events. Our Summer Reading Program reached its highest participation yet, with more than 3,200 sign-ups, a 45% increase that speaks volumes about Monrovia’s passion for reading and discovery!

Beyond the library walls, staff and volunteers carried that same spirit into schools, senior centers, and community gatherings, reaching over 15,000 residents and community members outside the walls of our own building! Our Veterans Resource Center became an even stronger place of connection and support, with engagement up 60% thanks to new partnerships and expanded services for those who served our nation.

Innovation also defined the year. Through the Library of Things, residents borrowed more than 5,600 items, from board games and tool kits to camping gear and VR headsets, showing once again that our library is more than a building with books and computers. It’s the center of our community, where curiosity turns into opportunity and where Monrovians of every age come together to learn, connect, and thrive.

I couldn't be more proud of our staff and volunteers for all of their hard work, which shines through all of the accomplishments! You may view the Monrovia Public Library presentation shared during this week's City Council meeting on YouTube (1:23:00 timestamp) or on our website.

 

 

Lastly, I'd like to remind everyone of Fountain to the Falls! Tomorrow morning, hundreds of community members will take on the 10K (6.21 miles) race route, starting at the fountain at Library Park heading up to the falls in Monrovia Canyon Park, and back down! Whether you're running, walking, volunteering, or cheering on friends and family from the sidelines, I look forward to seeing you out there and celebrating the return of Fountain to the Falls together!

Sincerely,

Dylan 


Highlights in this Update: 

  • Fountain to the Falls 10K Run/Walk - Tomorrow, September 6
  • Caltrans Commits $8.5 Million to Rio Hondo Ecosystem Restoration Project
  • New Recreation Registration System Launching Monday, September 15
  • Utility Billing Notice - August Billing Cycle
  • Monrovia Area Partnership Leadership Academies - New Schedule
  • City Council Proclaims September as Childhood Cancer & Blood Cancer Awareness Month
  • City Council Recognizes Volunteer Center of San Gabriel Valley for Supporting the 2025 Summer Concerts in the Park Series
  • Monrovia Today - Fall Issue Out Now!
  • American Red Cross x PEANUTS Blood Drive at the Library - Thursday, Sept 11
  • Monrovia Street Fair & Market Fall/Winter Hours - Friday, September 12
  • FREE Compost & Mulch Giveaway - Saturday, September 13
  • Safe Streets for All Survey - Extended through September 30
  • Volunteer with Food ED for Green Care Day - Saturday, September 13
  • 6th Annual Earthquake Workshop - Saturday, September 13
  • Funding Opportunity for Local Nonprofits: Community Benefits Grant Program
  • Upper San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District Programs
  • Los Angeles County to Perform California Avenue Street Repairs this Fall
  • Work Around Town
  • Job Opportunities with the City of Monrovia 

 

 

Fountain to the Falls 10K Run/Walk - Tomorrow, September 6

It's not too late to sign up for our Fountain to the Falls 10K Run/Walk! Pre-registration is $50 and closes this evening at 6:00 p.m. The race is limited to 350 participants, so register now online or at the Community Center (119 W Palm Ave) while spaces remain available! If there are available spaces tomorrow morning ahead of the race, same-day registration is $60.

The Fountain to the Falls 10K Run/Walk will take you from the Library Park Fountain, up through the northern section of Monrovia, through Monrovia Canyon Park, until you reach the waterfall and begin the trek back down to the Library Park Fountain! 

If you are not planning to participate in the run/walk, we still encourage and welcome you to come out into the community and enjoy the morning cheering on participants!

Questions about the 10K? Contact us at (626) 256-8246. We hope to see you on race day!

Temporary Street Closures

The following temporary parking restrictions and street closures will be enforced tomorrow from 5:00 - 11:30 a.m.:

  • Myrtle Avenue - Lemon Avenue to Foothill Boulevard
    • North and southbound lanes
    • Detours available on Primrose Avenue and Ivy Avenue
  • Myrtle Avenue - North of Foothill Boulevard to Hillcrest Boulevard
    • Northbound lane only
  • Hillcrest Boulevard - Myrtle Avenue to Canyon Boulevard
    • Eastbound lane only
  • Canyon Boulevard - Hillcrest Boulevard to Monrovia Canyon Park Entrance
    • Northbound lane only

 

 

 

Caltrans Commits $8.5 Million to Rio Hondo Ecosystem Restoration Project

Monrovia is a member of the Rio Hondo San Gabriel River Watershed Management Authority (RH/SGR WMA), a Joint Powers Authority working to protect the local watershed, quality of rainwater runoff (stormwater) and help member agencies meet national environmental standards related to stormwater management. The Authority is currently in the design phase of the Rio Hondo Ecosystem Restoration Project, located at the Peck Road Conservation Park, which will improve water quality, recharge the local groundwater basin, and create new multi-benefit facilities for the community to enjoy.

While the Authority makes progress toward the project’s design, the group has made significant strides toward securing funds for both design and construction phases. Recently, Monrovia worked with the RH/SGR WMA to secure $8.5 million from Caltrans to support the project’s construction! Caltrans officially committed this funding through a letter of support provided in July. With these funds, the RH/SGR WMA will be able to construct a project that will provide immediate benefits to the ecosystem and community. 

For more information on the Rio Hondo Ecosystem Restoration Project, visit the project website.

 


 

 

 

New Recreation Registration System Launching Monday, September 15

We are pleased to announce the launch of our new online registration system. The new system is designed to provide customers with a convenient and easy registration process for classes, trips, special events and even check facility availability for private events!

Online registration for all Fall Programs and Classes with the new registration system will begin Monday, September 15! All users will need to create a new account when registering for the first time.

For more information or assistance, please visit us at the Community Center (119 W Palm Ave) or call us at (626) 256-8246!

 


 

 

Utility Billing Notice - August Billing Cycle

Recently, the City has been made aware of a delay in customers receiving their August utility bills. The City is currently investigating the cause of this delay. The City is automatically waiving all late payment fees for this billing period if payment is made after the original due date.

Thank you for your patience and understanding. If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact our Utility Billing Office at (626) 932-5517.

 


 

 

Monrovia Area Partnership Leadership Academies - New Schedule

The Monrovia Area Partnership (MAP) has finalized the updated schedule for its Fall 2025 Leadership Academies. These popular programs offer residents an opportunity to develop leadership skills, learn about city operations, and engage with their community. 

Applications are still being accepted and can be submitted online. Last day to register is September 25!

New Fall 2025 Academy Schedule:

Youth Leadership Academy: For students in grades 8–12.

  • Dates: Wednesdays, October 1 – November 5, from 3:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Adult Leadership Academy: For adults aged 18 and over.

  • Dates: Thursdays, October 2 – November 13, from 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Don't miss the opportunity to get a behind-the-scenes look at city governance as you become equipped with leadership and community-building skills! Graduates of the academies often go on to serve on City boards, commissions, and other community groups!

For additional information, please contact MAP staff at map@monroviaca.gov or (626) 932-5564.


 

City Council Proclaims September as Childhood Cancer & Blood Cancer Awareness Month

On Tuesday, the Monrovia City Council proclaimed September 2025 as Childhood Cancer & Blood Cancer Awareness Month in Monrovia.

Each year, more than 400,000 children worldwide are diagnosed with cancer, making it the leading disease-related cause of death for kids in the United States and beyond. Survivors often face lasting health challenges, and more research is needed to develop treatments designed specifically for children.

This proclamation brings awareness to the families in our community affected by childhood and blood cancers and highlights the importance of continued advocacy, research, and support.

To learn how you can help conquer kids' cancer, please visit the St. Baldrick's Foundation website.


 

 

 

City Council Recognizes Volunteer Center of San Gabriel Valley for Supporting the 2025 Summer Concerts in the Park Series

At this week's meeting, City Council recognized the Volunteer Center of San Gabriel Valley (VCSGV) for their incredible support of our 2025 Summer Concerts in the Park series. 

Executive Director Macy Garcia accepted the certificate on behalf of the volunteers who showed up week after week -- arriving early to set up, staying late to clean up, and handling the many behind-the-scenes details that made each concert a welcoming and enjoyable experience.

Looking ahead, VCSGV is inviting the community to keep the spirit of service alive by joining Make a Difference Day 2025 on Saturday, October 25!


 

 

Monrovia Today - Fall Issue Out Now!

The Fall edition of Monrovia Today is now available online! Inside, you’ll find everything happening in Monrovia this season, from our annual Old Town Fall Festival, Thankful and Grateful Celebration, to upcoming classes, programs, and more. Fall class registration will launch on Monday, September 15. Stay tuned!
 

Online Transition

Starting with this Fall issue, the Monrovia Today is transitioning to a primarily digital format, which will help the City reduce printing and allow for quick and easy access to sign up for classes, visit links, and navigate websites. We understand that this will be an adjustment for some residents. For those who still prefer a printed copy, a limited number will be available at City facilities next week.


 

 

 

American Red Cross x PEANUTS Blood Drive at the Library! - Thursday, September 11

The Monrovia Police Department and the Monrovia Police Officers' Association are collaborating with the American Red Cross for one final blood drive this year, scheduled for next Thursday, September 11, in the Library Community Room (321 S Myrtle Ave).

Summer travel season presents challenges to the blood supply due to reduced donations. To tackle this, the Red Cross has partnered with the iconic PEANUTS®, to provide a special thank-you to donors who give between August 29 and September 21- a mystery bag containing one of four exclusive 75th anniversary t-shirts. Some may even find a Golden Ticket that grants them access to all four designs! Supplies are limited, so act quickly!

Let's spread the word and ensure this event is successful in saving lives!

Please visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter code: BOB25 or click the link below to schedule an appointment.  

 


 

 

 

Monrovia Street Fair & Market Fall/Winter Hours - Friday, September 12

Beginning next Friday, September 12, the Monrovia Friday Night Street Fair is moving to its Fall/Winter hours and operating from 5:00 - 9:00 p.m.

Don't forget - we're partnering with Hop Secret of Monrovia! Join us every Friday at the Monrovia Street Fair & Market for a Beer Garden on the 700 Block of Myrtle Ave. If you're 21+, come try some delicious local brews within a designated area. We hope to see you there!

 

 


 

 

FREE Compost & Mulch Giveaway - Saturday, September 13

In collaboration with Athens Services, Monrovia Public Works will be hosting a FREE Compost & Mulch event on Saturday, September 13, from 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., at the Monrovia Public Works Yard (600 S Mountain Ave).

The distribution will be held in the Public Works Yard parking lot on a first-come, first-served basis. This highly anticipated bi-annual event often results in long queues, so residents should be prepared.

Please remember to bring:

  • Your ID or Athens Services bill
  • Sturdy containers and your own shovel
  • No plastic bags allowed

For questions, please contact Public Works at pwcomments@monroviaca.gov or call (626) 932-5575. 

 


 

 

Safe Streets for All Survey - Extended!

Submit your feedback through September 30, 2025! The City is continuing to collect feedback from all roadway users to improve traffic safety and expand bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure. In addition to reporting safety concerns, we encourage you to share other travel-related challenges or observations in Monrovia.

Here are a few examples of helpful feedback:

  • “I’d bike more often, but there’s nowhere to park my bike, so I drive instead.”
  • “I bike to work on [street name] and see others doing the same. It could benefit from a bike lane or other safety features.”
  • “Drivers often speed on [street name], which makes the area feel unsafe.”
  • “The bollards at [intersection] make pedestrians more visible. [Different intersection] could benefit from a similar installation, as it’s difficult to see when pedestrians are crossing the street.”

The survey will be available until September 30, 2025. Complete the survey using the following link: https://app.maptionnaire.com/q/monroviacsapbikeplan

Stay connected! Project updates will continue to be posted on the SS4A website. To receive email updates or meeting notices, contact ssousa@monroviaca.gov.


 

 

 

 

Volunteer with Food ED for Green Care Day - Saturday, September 13 

Join Food ED for Green Care Day next Saturday, September 13, from 8:30 AM - 11:30 AM, a community event organized by Food ED in partnership with California Climate Action Corps and California Volunteers to help beautify local school gardens and green spaces across Monrovia. All ages are welcome - just bring water, a hat, and closed-toe shoes.

The day begins with a send-off at the Monrovia Community Garden (303 W Colorado Blvd)

Learn more about Food ED's mission at explorefooded.org.


 

 

 

6th Annual Earthquake Workshop - Saturday, September 13

The Monrovia Historical Preservation Group (MOHPG) and Monrovia Fire & Rescue will host their 6th Annual Earthquake Workshop in the Monrovia Public Library (321 S Myrtle Ave) Community Room next Saturday, September 13, from 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., to enable residents to prepare their households in the event of a catastrophic event.

The workshop is free, but you must RSVP in advance of the workshop. Attendance is limited, so be sure to reserve your spot today! A modest lunch will be provided for all guests.

For more information and to RSVP, please visit the MOHPG website


 

 

 A group wearing a uniform for GRID stands behind a row of solar panels while holding up certificates or other awarded letters.

 

Funding Opportunity for Local Nonprofits: Community Benefits Grant Program

Clean Power Alliance (CPA) and Calpine Community Energy have launched the 2025 - 2026 Community Benefits Grant Program, with $289,000 in funding available to support local nonprofit organizations in Los Angeles and Ventura counties.

The Community Benefits Grant program funds projects that promote clean energy adoption, workforce development, environmental education, and community sustainability. Between 9 to 12 organizations will be selected to receive grants ranging from $15,000 to $30,000.

Applications are now open and must be submitted by September 30 at 5:00 p.m. Recipients will be notified by the end of the year. 

To learn more about the Community Benefits Grant or to view past grant recipients, please visit the Clean Power Alliance online.

 


 

Upper San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District Programs

The Upper San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District (Upper Water) is offering two great programs to help residents save water and create sustainable homes and gardens!

 

WaterSmart Home Kit Program

The WaterSmart Home Kit Program is currently available for all residents within the Upper Water service area. The kits are designed to help residents conserve water indoors and outdoors. The free kits include a variety of water use efficiency devices that can easily be installed at home without a contractor. Items include:

  • Faucet aerators
  • Showerheads
  • Sprinkler nozzles
  • Request your kit online here

 

Residential Plant Voucher Program

Qualifying residents can receive a redeemable voucher for up to $250 worth of approved climate-appropriate plants to help transform their yards into beautiful, water-efficient landscapes. This program incentivizes residents to help create healthy and thriving gardens while saving water. Program benefits include:

  • Increase climate-appropriate plants into landscape
  • Raise public awareness of suitable plant selections and plant care
  • Improve plant diversity
  • Long-term reduction in water usage for landscape once plants are established
  • Apply online. The program is first-come, first-served, and applicants must reside within the Upper District service area to be eligible. Vouchers must be redeemed within two months of issue, no exceptions.

For more information, please contact Upper Water at (626) 443-2297.


 

 

Los Angeles County to Perform California Avenue Street Repairs this Fall

The County of Los Angeles is preparing to perform street repairs this fall along California Ave. south of the Monrovia City limit. The first phase of the project will take place from Hurstview Avenue to El Sur Street and is expected to begin in September. The full project area is provided in the above map.

Contact: Monrovia Public Works, (626) 256-8224


 

 

 

Work Around Town

Potential Traffic Delays

From Monday, September 8 through Friday, September 12, the following locations will have construction work that may alter traffic and/or sidewalk flow. Please follow all directional signage and worker instructions for your safety.

  • Monday, September 8 – Friday, September 12
    • Primrose Avenue and Evergreen Avenue at 127 W Pomona Avenue – Road closure down to one lane
    • 200 Block Duarte Road – Intermittent lane closures

Contact: Monrovia Public Works, (626) 932-5575

  • Monday, September 8
    • North Madison Avenue and Crescent Drive, and El Nido Avenue and Crescent Drive – Pole maintenance/replacement
    • Hidden Valley Road – Pre-dig for anchor installation

Contact: Southern California Edison, (800) 655-4555

  • Tuesday, September 9
    • 900 Block Genoa Street – Pole maintenance

Contact: Southern California Edison, (800) 655-4555

  • Thursday, September 11
    • 400 Block Highland Place – Pole replacement

Contact: Southern California Edison, (800) 655-4555

 


 

Job Opportunities with the City of Monrovia 

The City of Monrovia offers interested individuals a chance to keep themselves notified on our job openings through the job interest card. This card will help interested individuals receive notifications about positions that open within the City without having to log on to view our employment opportunities page continuously.

The City of Monrovia is now recruiting for the following positions:

  • Hazardous Materials Fire Inspector
  • Police Officer (Lateral)
  • Police Officer (Recruit/Entry-level)

 


 

  

 

 

Neighborhood Watch Report

This report lists the total number of calls for service received over the last seven-day period.


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