Mayor’s Monthly - July

On my Mind (a few random thoughts)

In just a few days, Grant Avenue will host the best hometown 4th of July Parade in Northern California (yes, I am a little biased). The parade is a perfect blend of community spirit and Americana. This year’s theme is “Out of this World”, commemorating the 50th Anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing. In addition, I am sure many of the crowd-favorite parade participants will be there like Nave Patrola and the creative folks at Pini Ace Hardware always have something fun to add to the mix. We usually get to see the basset hounds walking their owners along the parade route too. It’s a pretty special parade if families come out the night before to claim their spot and line their chairs along Grant Avenue.

Did you know that the entire 4th of July Parade is put on by a group of volunteers? I think that is truly what makes the parade so special and gives it the hometown feel. When you come out to the parade on Thursday, be sure to thank a volunteer as it wouldn’t be possible without them. Also, if you feel so inclined, you can also volunteer for this year’s parade.

The parade will begin at 10AM on Thursday, July 4th. You can come early to the Buckaroo Breakfast that is organized by the Presbyterian Church of Novato starting at 7AM in the Redwood Credit Union parking lot. For all the info about the parade, visit novatoparade.com. See you on the 4th.

Finally, let’s cheer on the US Women’s National Team tomorrow in the World Cup against England. It’s ironic that the matchup will take place on July 2nd, which is the actual day that the US declared independence in 1776.

Around Town (happenings in Novato)

Things are heating up in July with great events for the whole family happening every week this month:

Sundays on Sherman - Saturday, July 14th
Please join us for as we take over Sherman Avenue in Downtown Novato to play! Sundays on Sherman is a chance for community members of all ages to come outside and participate in FREE games and activities! More Info

Concerts on the Green
Saturday, July 6th featuring Barrio Manouche
Saturday, July 20th featuring Decker
More Info

Hot Amphitheatre Nights - Saturday, July 27th featuring Illeagles
The Bay Area’s Premier Eagles tribute band. In the true spirit of the word tribute, this group of seasoned players honors the spirit of the Eagles and keeps true to the essence of the musicianship honoring the Eagles incredible music catalog & legacy. Learn More

San Rafael Sunset Criterium Bike Race - Saturday, July 27th
I know this event is in San Rafael, but there is really nothing else like it on the West Coast so I have to share it (this is also my 5th year producing & promoting the event with Mike's Bikes). Now in its 21st year, the San Rafael Sunset Criterium has become part carnival, part madhouse, part Thunderdome. Races start to roll at 1:30pm. The pros ride at sunset. There is also a FREE kids ride. Visit http://www.sanrafaelsunset.com for more info or check out the Video & Event Page here.

On the Agenda (upcoming at the City Council)

Below are a few key items and updates that are coming up at a future council meeting in July. Because dates tend to change, be sure to check the City Council agendas here (https://novato.org/government/city-council/watch-meetings).

In July, we will have Council meetings on July 9 and July 23. Here are some key topics that could be on our council agendas soon:

Revenue Options
We adopted the 2019/2020 budget, but moving forward, we will begin to discuss some long-term revenue options for the city and welcome everyones feedback and ideas.

Short Term Rentals
Should Novato regulate short term rentals? Also, should Transient Occupancy Taxes be collected on those rentals? We will begin to discuss options later in July.

Minimum Wage
We will also hold a workshop with various stakeholders to better understand the pros and cons of local minimum wage ordinances.