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The Weekly Roundup, January 30, 2026
Friday, January 30, 2026| What’s Doing in Lafayette?
News From the City Manager’s Corner
This week’s updates from City Manager, Niroop Srivatsa highlight:
- Recently moved to Lafayette? Drop by the Library on Tuesday Evening
- Matilija Sky is First in a Series of Downtown Murals
- If You’ve Been Drinking, Do Not Drive
- Submit Your Nominations by Noon on Friday for Lafayette’s 2026 Citizen of the Year
- Coyote Awareness Reminders
- Love Your Planet – February Tips from the ETF
- Library February Preview
If you have feedback for us about these topics, send an email to lafayettelistens@lovelafayette.org.
Recently moved to Lafayette? Drop by the Library on Tuesday Evening
If you recently moved to Lafayette, or are simply looking to deepen your local connections, you're invited to drop by the library this Tuesday evening to meet friendly representatives and neighbors who can help you:
- Learn about activities, programs, and services in Lafayette
- Find opportunities to meet people, get involved and engage with the community
- Problem-solve home and neighborhood questions
This family-friendly event is designed to help you get connected with the most important resources in town—saving you the time and stress of searching on your own. Enjoy light refreshments as you explore tables hosted by key community partners and local organizations.
Hello Lafayette!
February 3, 2026
Drop by 6 to 8 pm
Lafayette Library and Learning Center - Don Tatzin Community Hall
3491 Mount Diablo Blvd, in downtown Lafayette
Hello Lafayette is hosted by Lafayette Juniors, the City, and the Lafayette Library and Learning Center Foundation. Questions? Email the Lafayette Juniors. More information is on our website at www.lovelafayette.org/NewResidents
Matilija Sky is First in a Series of Downtown Murals
On Monday evening, in front of a crowd that gathered to celebrate the vibrant new mural on the wall of Zahra Boutique Salon in downtown Lafayette, Mayor Anduri thanked local artist Rachel Perls and congratulated her on the completion of the mural featuring beautiful native Matilija poppy flowers. The Mayor, Rachel Perls and Public Art Committee member Dave Dondero thanked:
- Property owner, Julie Del Santo
- ABG Art Group
- Public Art Committee
- Members of the public who participated in the process
- Lafayette City Council
- City Staff especially Jenny Rosen, Staff Liaison to the Public Art Committee
It is the first mural completed as part of the City’s new downtown mural program. Through the program, a total of four murals will be created by both local and nationally-recognized muralists on the themes of landscape, abstract, botanical, and historical representation.
We are currently seeking additional business and property owners who are interested in providing a mural site to partner with us. Read more and get in touch with us at www.lovelafayette.org/murals
If You’ve Been Drinking, Do Not Drive
Last week, Lafayette Police Officers arrested a person for driving under the influence after he crashed his vehicle into a building downtown. Thankfully, no one was seriously injured. However, across America, about 34 people die in drunk-driving crashes each day - that's one person every 42 minutes, and all those deaths were preventable. (Source: NHTSA)
Here are some reminders about responsible behavior:
- Plan your safe ride home before you start the party, choose a non-drinking friend as a designated driver.
- If someone you know has been drinking, do not let that person get behind the wheel. Take their keys and help them arrange a sober ride home.
- If you drink, do not drive for any reason. Call a taxi, a ride-hailing service, or a sober friend.
- If you’re hosting a party where alcohol will be served, make sure all guests leave with a sober driver.
- Always wear your seat belt — it’s your best defense against impaired drivers.
If you see an impaired driver on the road and feel they are threat to life or property, call 9-1-1. Your actions could help save someone’s life.
Submit Your Nominations by Noon on Friday for Lafayette’s 2026 Citizen of the Year
Do you know someone whose heart, dedication, and quiet leadership make Lafayette a better place to live? Now is the time to shine a light on the neighbors who lift our community every day. The Lafayette Chamber is seeking nominations for the 2026 Lafayette Citizen of the Year by noon on February 6. Nominees must be current Lafayette residents and not hold any elected position. Nominate individuals who:
• Give generously of their time, talents, or resources to strengthen our community
• Lead with integrity, kindness, and exemplary character
• Bring people together and inspire pride in Lafayette
• Support local organizations, youth, seniors, businesses, or nonprofits
• Work behind the scenes without seeking recognition
• Champion collaboration, inclusion, sustainability, or innovative solutions
Preference is given to those whose impact has been felt over many years and across multiple groups. Submit your nomination at: https://lafayettechamber.org/coy.
Coyote Awareness Reminders
Coyotes are common throughout our region and are a natural part of the local ecosystem, even in urban areas. Lamorinda residents may notice increased coyote activity during certain times of the year, including winter mating season, the fall when young coyotes disperse from family groups, and spring and summer when adults are more protective during pup-rearing. Coyotes are naturally wary of people and help keep ecosystems healthy by controlling rodents and other wildlife. To reduce potential conflicts, residents are reminded not to feed wildlife, secure trash and other food attractants, and keep pets leashed, especially small dogs. If encountered, remain calm, make yourself appear large, and encourage the animal to move away. For more information please visit the California Department of Fish and Wildlife website https://wildlife.ca.gov/HWC/Coyotes
Love Your Planet – February Tips from the ETF
February is the perfect month to show our planet some love and the Environmental Task Force wants to help! When visiting local cafés, consider slowing down and enjoying your drink “for here”, sipping from a real mug instead of taking it to go. At home, compost banana peels, eggshells, tea bags, coffee filters, apple cores, tissues, napkins, uncoated paper, and pizza boxes. Just skip the compostable plastic cups/utensils, which must go in the trash. Choosing to pause, enjoy, reuse, and compost helps Lafayette stay clean and climate-friendly.
Library February Preview
Click on the image to the right for a larger view of the flyer!
Library Programs
The Price of Mercy, February 24
Former Public Defender and attorney, Emily Galvin Almanza, weaves hard data and unforgettable stories, dark humor and compelling evidence to tell us the truth about what’s really going on behind the closed doors of America’s criminal courts. Tickets at LLLCF.org/almanza.
At the Library
All Your Favorite Music is (Probably) Black, February 4
Celebrate Black History Month with a humorous, highly immersive, and historically accurate talk that uncovers the African American roots of popular music genres. Register online.
Sweet Thursday - Charlotte Biltekoff, February 19
Join Friends of the Lafayette Library in welcoming Dr. Charlotte Biltekoff to discuss her latest book, Real Food, Real Facts. Register at tinyurl.com/sweet-feb2026.
Holiday Closure
The Lafayette Library and the Friends Corner Book Shop will be closed Monday, February 16 in observance of Presidents’ Day.
Spotlight
Early Bird Ticket Sales Start Feb. 5 for Fundraiser at the Lafayette Library
Get ready for a night of community fun! The Lafayette Library is thrilled to announce its 2026 fundraiser, Night at the Library: A Curious Event. This year, instead of auctions, bidding wars, and fund-a-need moments, the Library Foundation is hosting a night where you can engage, connect, and explore — an invitation to do what libraries inspire us all to do: Get Curious. Early bird tickets on sale February 5. Learn more at LLLCF.org/natl2026
Meetings & Events
Top Meetings This Week
- Emergency Preparedness Commission – February 2 at 10am
- Planning Commission - cancelled
- Transportation & Circulation Commission – February 2 at 7pm
- Public Art Committee – February 4 at 4pm
Don's Golden Happy Hour For Adults 55+ (Monthly)
On the second Tuesday of each month (Feb. 10, March 10, etc.) get together with old friends or come make new ones at Don’s Golden Happy Hour hosted by Lamorinda Village. Held monthly at different local venues in the Lamorinda area, this event offers an opportunity to enjoy appetizers (provided by Lamorinda Village and a sponsor) and no-host beverages. Once you’ve signed up, locations and times will be provided. For more information, please contact Lamorinda Village at info@lamorindavillage.org or call them at (925) 283-3500.
CHP “Age Well/Drive Smart" Program Offered in Lafayette on Feb. 26
CHP’S “Age Well/Drive Smart” program (for all adult licensed drivers) will be offered at the Lafayette Community Center on Thursday, Feb. 26. This free, interactive program for licensed drivers contains the following topics:
- tips to understand driving safety
- bicycle and pedestrian safety
- distracted driving information – it’s not just the phone
- inexpensive car safety accessories
- DUI
- ·new technology
- how to calculate current vehicle operating costs
- alternative transportation options for seniors
At the end of the program, licensed attendees will receive a Certificate of Attendance. For licensed drivers over the age of 55, this Certificate of Attendance may help to offset your car insurance rates by applying for the Mature Driver Discount. Advance registration required and spots are filling up!
Other Community News & Events
The Anza Expedition - A 250th Commemoration Exhibit at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley
Almost 250 years ago, as the Declaration of Independence was signed on the East Coast, the Anza expedition arrived at its destination on the West Coast. Both of these events would dramatically shape the cultural and political landscapes of the United States. Collaborating with the National Park Service, this exhibit recognizes the extraordinary achievements of the Anza expedition which travelled over indigenous trails and brought the first Spanish families to settle in California. Anza located the San Francisco Presidio, established Mission Dolores and led an exploration of the East Bay.
Check out the exhibit now through May 31. The Museum of the San Ramon Valley is open Tuesdays through Fridays 1 to 4pm, Saturdays 10am to 1pm, Sundays 12 to 3pm.
Lafayette Chambers News and Upcoming Events:
Learn Grant Application Strategies & New Tax Deduction Laws on February 5 - The Lafayette Chamber Nonprofit Network will meet Thursday, February 5 from 8:30 to 10am at Creekside Commons, 1035 Carol Lane, Lafayette.
- The Community Foundation of Lafayette (CFL) Excellence Grant application opens February 1. Ann Appert, CFL Grant Committee Chair, will speak about the Community Foundation's Excellence Grants, which are awarded each year to nonprofits that create meaningful change in the greater Lafayette community in the categories of: Seniors, Arts & Culture, Youth Education & Development, and Human Services. Ann will share practical tips for writing a strong and competitive proposal for small, community-based grants.
- A helpful introduction to new tax laws that may impact donations will be provided by Walnut Creek CPA Stefan Foushee.
Registration is required. Chamber members can attend for free. Guests are welcome to attend their first meeting for free. After that, participants may join the Lafayette Chamber or attend for a $20 guest fee per event. The Nonprofit Network encourages and guides nonprofit organizations as they fulfill their essential role within our community. Meetings foster collaborations, share expertise, and promote best practices among seasoned nonprofit professionals from large organizations and foundations, as well as small and newly launched nonprofits.
Lafayette Business Women - Next meeting on Wednesday, February 11, from 5:15 to 6:30pm at Pillar Cowork (3515 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette). This group encourages local women-led businesses to share experiences and knowledge while networking and collaborating. Registration required. Guests are welcome to attend their first meeting for free and then may join the Lafayette Chamber or pay a $20 guest fee per event.
Nonprofit Community Events & Announcements - Did you know the Chamber produces a periodic newsletter highlighting news, events and volunteer opportunities with local non-profits? Sign up to receive their emails directly so you can support our local nonprofit community! Read the Jan/Feb issue now.
Contra Costa Poetry Out Loud Competition on Saturday, February 7
Poetry Out Loud is a national arts education program that encourages the study of poetry by offering free educational materials and a dynamic recitation competition for high school students across the country. In recognition of America’s 250th anniversary in 2026, this year’s program will focus on poems that celebrate the rich tapestry of American history and culture. The Contra Costa competition will be held on Saturday, Feb. 7 from 11am to 1pm at Pinole Valley High School, 2900 Pinole Valley Rd, Pinole, CA
County Racial Justice Oversight Body to Hold Community Town Halls
The Contra Costa Racial Justice Oversight Body (RJOB) is hosting a series of Community Town Halls to hear directly from residents and engage the community in shaping a more fair and just future. Attendees are invited to share their voices and help guide RJOB’s next steps. Light dinner will be provided at in-person events, and virtual translation services will be available at all town halls. Register to attend at http://bit.ly/49im8yj
- Thursday, February 12, 6 to 8pm at RYSE Center, 3939 Bissell Ave, Richmond
- Thursday, February 19, 6 to 8pm virtual session
Contra Costa Accepting Applications for Civil Grand Jury Service
Contra Costa County Superior Court is now accepting applications for Civil Grand Jury service for FY 26-27 to monitor, review and report on city and county governments, special districts, and school districts. Interested? Contact the Office of the Civil Grand Jury at (925) 608-2621 or visit their website. Applications due by March 13.
Nominate a Teen for the Contra Costa County Youth Hall of Fame by Feb. 20
Contra Costa County is now accepting nominations for the 2026 Youth Hall of Fame Awards, honoring outstanding county residents ages 12 to 18. For more information and the application to nominate youth in our community, click Nomination Form. Nominations must be received or postmarked by February 20.
Nonprofit Community Events & Announcements Compiled by the Lafayette Chamber
Did you know the Chamber produces a periodic newsletter highlighting news, events and volunteer opportunities with local non-profits? Sign up to receive their emails directly!
Check out the Jan/Feb issue online.
All Ages Recreation Downtown Receives STEAM Education Grant
All Ages Recreation Downtown (AARD) is honored and grateful to be a recipient of the Lawrence Livermore National Security (LLNS) Community Gift Program. LLNS awarded the funds based upon AARD’s science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) education offered throughout the year during AARD’s free recreation events. LLNS specifically chose to fund the kinetic sand, bead crafts, art workshops, prehistoric animal and volcano table, magnetic exploration, and musical instrument experiences. LLNS is the private management company that runs Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory for the U. S. Department of Energy.
Looking for more upcoming happenings around town?
Visit the Chamber’s Community Events Calendar online.
Miscellaneous
When to call 9-1-1 versus the Non-Emergency Police Dispatch number? Always call 9-1-1 for police, fire, or medical emergencies when immediate action is required: someone’s health, safety or property is in jeopardy or there is a crime is in progress. If you need police assistance that is not of an emergency nature (i.e. does not require immediate attention) call the Police Department’s non-emergency number, 925-284-5010.
It’s Time to Renew Your Lafayette Senior Services Membership. If you haven't already done so, please renew your membership online or call us at (925) 284-5050. Membership is $15 per calendar year. Free to those age 90 and up!
Learn About Water Conservation Rebates: Get Answers About EBMUD's Rebate Programs during virtual office hours from 12 to 1pm on Feb. 3 and Feb. 17. Find out about EBMUD’s Water Conservation programs that can help save water and money. Details at ebmud.com/rebates.
Help Shape Your Community’s Future: Join an Advisory Body: If you are interested in areas of civic life related to planning/development, creeks and environmental stewardship, crime prevention, senior services or other areas of civic life, visit www.lovelafayette.org/volunteers for information about applying to serve on an advisory board, committee or commission.
Register for Winter/Spring Recreation Programs: We have something for all ages and interests. See the 2026 Winter/Spring Rec Guide then register online. If you need help registering for a class or program, send an email to recreation@lovelafayette.org or call us at 925-284-2232.
Know Your Rights Regarding ICE: You can order new Know Your Rights cards in English and Spanish from Stand Together Contra Costa. Contact them through their website and someone will reach out to you.
Read resources compiled by the County’s Employment & Human Services Department and Stand Together Contra Costa. Stand Together Contra Costa’s Rapid Response hotline is 925-900-5151.
Reduced ADU Development Impact Fees: The City has temporarily reduced the development impact fees charged for new Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) by 50% through 2026. And, if you finish construction by September 30, 2026, you may be eligible for a rebate through the ADU Accelerator Program. Learn more about all the current incentives.
Curious about Development Around Town? Information on major planning projects can be found on the Major Development Projects webpage. You can navigate the map or scroll through the list of projects in the sidebar. Projects are populated to the page after submission of a complete application and the project is heading into the review process. If you are interested in large and small project applications submitted to the Planning Department, visit the Planning Applications Received webpage.
Sign up to receive City notifications: Sign up for meeting agendas and Lafayette’s publications at bit.ly/LafayetteNotifications. Also, find out how to follow us on social media at https://www.lovelafayette.org/connect
Contact Us: To contact a City Department or Staff member, refer to our online Staff Directory. For information on contacting an individual City Council member, see the City Council webpage. You may also email the entire City Council at cityhall@lovelafayette.org. Comments regarding a City Council agenda item should be sent to cityhall@lovelafayette.org by noon on the day of the public meeting. Comments received by noon on the day of the meeting will be included as part of the agenda packet, while those received after the deadline will be distributed to the Council on the following business day.
Cultural Observations and Celebrations
Celebrate our diversity by learning more about these upcoming cultural observations and celebrations! The City council has proclaimed February as Black History Month.
Feb. 15 Maha Shivratri (Hindu)
Feb. 16 Presidents' Day – City Administrative Offices will be closed on Monday, Feb. 16
Feb. 17 Lunar New Year
Photo for the Week
Congratulations to Erin and Ford Andrews on being recognized as Lafayette’s Business Persons of the Year! The Andrews have actively support numerous community organizations over the decades and since opening Sideboard Lafayette in 2014, have contributed to our vibrant dining scene.
Quote for the Week
There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man; true nobility is being superior to your former self.
- Ernest Hemingway
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The Weekly Roundup is prepared for the Lafayette Community, City Council and Staff. If you have thoughts about this week’s Roundup, a contribution for a future edition or a photo to be considered for the “Photo of the Week”, please email the City of Lafayette's Communications Analyst/Public Information Officer, Suzanne Iarla.
Learn more about Lafayette’s other digital publications and social media sites here.