Latest News
The Weekly Roundup, April 3, 2026
Friday, April 3, 2026| What’s Doing in Lafayette?
News From the City Manager’s Corner
This week’s updates from City Manager, Niroop Srivatsa highlight:
- More Exciting News About Housing Downtown
- Lafayette Plaza Lawn Closed for Annual Maintenance
- Get Involved: Environmental Task Force Seeks New Members
- Building Tomorrow’s Leaders
- Now Hiring: Public Works Inspector
- Distracted Driving is Dangerous
- Planning Commission Meeting
- Coffee with the Cops
If you have feedback for us about these topics, send an email to lafayettelistens@lovelafayette.org.
More Exciting News About Housing Downtown
The City is pleased to announce the completion of two significant development projects in downtown Lafayette, marking an important step forward in expanding local housing and activating the city’s core.
- Blue Oak at 950 Hough Avenue is a four-story condominium community featuring 20 for-sale homes. The development offers a mix of two- and three-bedroom residences, including three below-market-rate units, and incorporates contemporary design along with shared amenities that support a modern, low-maintenance lifestyle.
-
The Brant at 3676 Mt. Diablo Boulevard is a three-story mixed-use development with 66 for-sale condominiums, including ten below-market-rate units. The ground floor introduces new commercial space along Mt. Diablo Boulevard, with tenants such as Hollie’s Homegrown and Western Flyers Brewing contributing to the area’s retail and dining scene.
These two projects deliver new housing within walking distance of downtown shops, restaurants, and the Lafayette BART station. Their central location supports reduced reliance on cars and aligns with local and regional goals to promote transit-oriented development and a more walkable community. You can join the Chamber of Commerce in welcoming Western Flyer Brewing at their ribbon cutting on Thursday, April 9, starting at 1pm, with the ribbon cutting happening sharply at 1:15pm. Please register to attend.
Pictured below: Blue Oak
Pictured below: The Brant
Lafayette Plaza Lawn Closed for Annual Maintenance
Beginning early morning on Monday, April 6, our Public Works crew will be performing annual maintenance on the lawn, which will need to be closed for up to 3 weeks in order to give the seeds a chance to germinate. During this time, please obey the signs and avoid walking, riding or playing on the lawn. The signs will be removed as soon as the lawn area re-opens. Thank you for your co-operation.
Get Involved: Environmental Task Force Seeks New Members
Are you passionate about sustainability, green energy, and recycling? Want to make a difference in Lafayette? The Environmental Task Force (ETF) currently has vacancies that would be a perfect opportunity for you! The ETF researches, develops, and supports the implementation of environmental policies and programs that advance the City’s sustainability goals. Current efforts include promoting the use of reusable foodware at local restaurants. The Task Force meets on the second Thursday of each month at 7pm. Application Instructions | Application form PDF
Building Tomorrow’s Leaders
Congratulations to City staff members Justin Bodily, Patrick Golier, and Suzanne Iarla on their successful graduation from the Contra Costa Leadership Academy. This program plays an important role in developing the next generation of public sector leaders by strengthening leadership skills, supporting succession planning, and providing meaningful professional growth opportunities. Their accomplishment reflects both their individual commitment to excellence and the City’s ongoing investment in building a strong, capable team for the future.
Now Hiring: Public Works Inspector
The City is on the lookout for our next Public Works Inspector – help build the infrastructure that keeps the community moving! As a Public Works Inspector with the City, you’ll spend your days in the field ensuring that streets, sidewalks, drainage systems, and other infrastructure are built safely, correctly, and to the highest standards. Come work with a team that values service, teamwork, and delivering projects that make a visible difference in our community. Learn more about the Public Works Inspector position.
Distracted Driving is Dangerous
We focus a lot on reminding drivers to slow down. Another safety topic is distracted driving, which is one of the leading causes of crashes among teens and affects drivers of all ages. April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, a nationwide initiative that highlights the dangers of distracted driving and promotes safer driving habits. Here’s a message from the California Highway Patrol:
Whether it’s your phone, your GPS, or getting too caught up in the moment, it only takes a second for things to go sideways. One glance away from the road can turn into something much worse. Anything that takes your attention away from the road can be dangerous. It doesn’t take long to make a mistake you can’t take back. Always keep your focus on the road. Drive focused. Arrive safe.
Meetings & Events
Planning Commission Meeting on Monday
The Planning Commission meeting on Monday, April 6 starts at 7pm and includes a hearing to consider a Minor Subdivision application associated with a 315-unit apartment project at 3233 Deer Hill Road (the “Terraces”) which was approved in 2020. The Minor Subdivision application request is for approval of a parcel map that would merge the existing ten parcels into one parcel.
See the full agenda for the staff reports as well as information about how to participate in or watch the meeting. Information is also available at www.lovelafayette.org/calendar.
Other Top Meetings This Week
- Emergency Preparedness Commission - Monday, April 6 at 10am
- Transportation & Circulation Commission - cancelled
- Parks, Trails & Recreation Commission - Trails Subcommittee - Tuesday, April 7 at 7pm
- Public Art Committee - Wednesday, April 8 at 4pm
- Parks, Trails & Recreation Commission - Wednesday, April 8 at 7pm
- Environmental Task Force - Thursday, April 9 at 7pm
Coffee With The Cops at Papillon Quality Gourmet Coffee and Tea
Join us for our next Coffee with the Cops on Thursday, April 16 from 8 to 9am and enjoy a casual conversation with members of the Lafayette Police Department. This is a great opportunity to meet your local officers, ask questions, share concerns, and learn more about what’s happening in our community—all over a cup of coffee. We look forward to connecting with you at Papillon (67 Lafayette Circle). Stop by, say hello, and start your morning with us.
Call for Poets
Local poets are invited to share their voices at the next Poetry for the Ages, a welcoming mid-day poetry salon celebrating National Poetry Month that is a unique opportunity for poets to connect across generations and share their work in a supportive, salon-style setting. Sign up to read at the April 21 Poetry for the Ages event.
Reminder: Curbside Bin “Lid-Flip” Study April 6-7
On April 6 and 7, you may see an inspector in your neighborhood performing 'lid-flips' and looking into your organics and landfill bins to assess how well we as a community are diverting organic material from the landfill. Click on the image below to learn more about acceptable organic materials that can be placed in the green bin.
To make composting your food scraps easier, residents can call Republic Services at (925) 685-4711 to request a free 3-gallon container for kitchen food scraps.
Other Community News & Events
Lafayette Rotary Club’s Annual Candy Scramble on Saturday at Lafayette Plaza
Bring your children ages 2 through 2nd grade to Lafayette Plaza (corner of Mt. Diablo Blvd. & Moraga Road) this Saturday April 4 for some bunny fun! Event starts promptly at 10am.
The park lawn will be covered with candy for the kids to put in their baskets, plus there will be “Johnny’s Donut Dive” for the adults. Details at rotarylafayette.org.
Story Games at Town Hall Theatre on Monday Evening
Story Games blend improv theatre, imagination, and tabletop play. Perfect for writers, performers, gamers, and anyone who loves stories. No experience needed—just bring curiosity! Typically held on the 2nd Monday of each month, however this month, it will be held on Monday, April 6. Free, with a suggested donation to Town Hall Theatre.
Lafayette Chamber of Commerce News
Meet the 2026 Lafayette Chamber Board Plus Q1 Highlights
The Lafayette Chamber is off to a strong start in 2026! This Q1 update introduces the 2026 Board of Directors, shares an inspiring message from President Dr. Jeremy Steel, and recaps a busy first quarter—from welcoming 31 new members to celebrating standout community leaders and hosting impactful events. Read the full update to meet the leaders behind the momentum and see what’s ahead for the Chamber.
Connect, Share & Grow with Lafayette Chamber this April
Lafayette Chamber Affinity Groups offer meaningful ways to connect with local professionals, share ideas, and build relationships around shared interests. Ribbon Cuttings are exciting ways to welcome new businesses! Get involved and strengthen your connection to the Lafayette business community by registering to attend an upcoming event. Read more about April Chamber events:
- Lafayette Business Women, Wednesday, April 8 at Collab Fertility (Walnut Creek)
- Ribbon Cutting at Western Flyer Brewing, Thursday, April 9, 1pm (new time!)
- Lafayette Chamber Health and Wellness Alliance, Tuesday, April 14 at Oakwood Athletic Club
- Lafayette Chamber Connectors at Creekside Commons, Wednesday, April 15
- Lafayette Young Professionals, Thursday, April 23 at Headlands Brewing
Read Lafayette Chamber’s Latest Nonprofit Newsletter
There are many nonprofit organizations in Lafayette and the surrounding area doing incredible work to support our community and its residents. To learn more about their events, announcements, and volunteer opportunities, read the Lafayette Chamber’s most recent Nonprofit Newsletter.
Apply to Be Part of the 2026 Lafayette Art & Wine Festival!
Join Lafayette’s largest and most beloved events—bringing together the Lafayette community with live music, art, food, drinks and so much more! Applications are now open for artists, craftsmen, commercial vendors, nonprofits, beer and wine booth hosts, and sponsors. This is a prime opportunity to showcase your brand, connect with the community, and be part of an iconic two-day festival on September 19 and 20, 2026. Learn more about the opportunities and the application process at lafayettefestival.com/apply.
Thursday Deadline for Congressional High School Art Competition Deadline
Congressman DeSaulnier’s annual Congressional District High School Art Competition and Exhibition is a judged art show, open to high school students in the Tenth Congressional District of California. Submissions will be accepted until April 9 at 5pm. For more information and the rules, visit Congressman DeSaulnier's webpage.
Youth Empowerment Benefit Concert on Thursday, April 9 Benefitting OTTP-NorCal
OTTP-NorCal will host its Youth Empowerment Benefit Concert on Thursday, April 9 at 6:30pm at The Fourth Bore Taproom & Grill in Orinda. The event will feature the cover band Brothers Coane, in their 2-man show, “Decades of Hits, Endless Good Vibes!” Sing along to the songs you love, jam to the classics, and dance the night away! Tickets and additional information are available at: www.event.gives/yef26. Each ticket includes drinks & appetizers, access to our live auction, and, most importantly, supports underserved Bay Area youth. Questions may be directed to development@ottp-sf.org. Learn more at ottp-sf.org.
"Lead the Way" A Multi-Generational Celebration of Diversity, Equity, Belonging and Inclusion
The Lafayette Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Committee is partnering with students from Acalanes High School and several other local organizations to host a family-friendly celebration featuring free food, festivities and fun. The gathering will take place on Saturday, April 11 from noon to 3 pm at the Acalanes High School courtyard.
Community members of all ages who support the values of diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging are invited to join the fun. Come help celebrate the work being done to keep these important values alive in the community and:
- build connections across generations
- recognize student and community leaders, and
- inspire joy in all those who support these shared values
For more information, email LafayetteDEIB@gmail.com
Daughters of the American Revolution Hosts Wreath-laying Ceremony on Saturday, April 11
You are invited to a patriotic wreath-laying ceremony honoring the Marquis de Lafayette on Saturday, April 11, hosted by the Acalanes Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution. The program begins at 11:15 a.m. outside the Lafayette Library and Learning Center (meet at the amphitheater), where the Young American Patriots Fife & Drum Corps will perform until 11:30 a.m., and guests may meet a Revolutionary War soldier or two. At approximately 11:30 a.m., walk over to Lafayette Plaza to hear the La Marseillaise and the Star-Spangled Banner, brief remarks and watch the laying of the wreath at the state of the Marquis. Program will conclude around noon. All are welcome to attend this tribute celebrating Lafayette’s service to the cause of American independence and the enduring friendship between France and the United States.
Lafayette Friends Corner Book Shop Sale on April 11
The Lafayette Friends Corner Book Shop is having a half-price sale on Saturday April 11 - every book in the shop will be 50% off. Proceeds support the collection, programs, and services of the Lafayette Library.
Moraga Rotary Club April Events
For more details, contact the Moraga Rotary Club:
- eWaste and Shredding Event on Saturday April 11, 10am to 3:30pm at the Moraga Shopping Center (McCaulou’s Parking Lot)
- Magic Show and Play Time on Saturday April 18 at 1pm at the Moraga Valley Presbyterian Church
Acalanes High School Musical: Chicago
Come enjoy some Razzle Dazzle and All That Jazz! Tickets on sale now for the musical "Chicago" in the Acalanes Performing Arts Center April 15 through 18 at 7 pm, April 18 and 19 at 2 pm. Purchase tickets at http://tickets.ahsparts.org
Night at the Library to Feature St. George Spirits
Join the Lafayette Library and Learning Center Foundation for a night of spirited inspiration and curiosity! Saint George Spirits will join us for our signature fundraiser, Night at the Library: A Curious Event, on April 24. They’ll serve a signature cocktail and get into the nitty-gritty of distilling and brewing their iconic spirits. The Lafayette Library is the heart of our community, a hub for human connection and lifelong learning. Support your library by purchasing your tickets to Night at the Library: A Curious Event at www.LLLCF.org/natl2026.
Sustainable Lafayette’s Earth Day Festival on April 26
Save the date of Sunday, April 26 for Sustainable Lafayette’s annual Earth Day Festival. More details coming soon.
BayREN Efficiency and Sustainable Energy Home Program
BayREN's Efficiency and Sustainable Energy (EASE) Home Program is designed to help income-qualified Bay Area homeowners and renters make their homes healthier, more comfortable, and energy efficient. Check if you pre-qualify at SaveWithEase.com.
Volunteer with the Contra Costa County Animal Services Department
Volunteers support and supplement the shelter programs and are an integral part of the team at Contra Costa Animal Services. Volunteer positions are available for adults aged 18 years and older. Visit Animal Services FAQ for more information.
Looking for more upcoming happenings around town?
Visit the Chamber’s Community Events Calendar online.
Miscellaneous
Spring Art Exhibitions: A Celebration of Artistic Exploration: The Public Art Committee spring exhibitions are on view at the Lafayette Library and Learning Center and the Town Hall Theatre through May 31:
- Hearing Shapes, Seeing Sounds by John Poole - Library Lobby Alcove Display Case
- Surface by Mary Stets Chabolla - Library Community Hall Gallery & Homework Center through May 31
- Adoration by Angelina Triana - Town Hall Theatre
Learn About Water Conservation Rebates: Talk with EBMUD water conservation experts to ask questions about EBMUD rebate programs and get project advice. Drop into their online office hours (via Zoom) from 12 to 1pm on April 7 and 21. Learn more at ebmud.com/rebates.
Know Your Rights Regarding ICE: Access 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 only listed here 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, which is updated monthly.
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 cultural observations and celebrations! The City Council has proclaimed March as Muslim American Heritage Month. April is also
Autism Acceptance Month | Month of the Military Child | National Volunteer Month
April 1 to 9 Passover/Pesach (Jewish)
April 3 Good Friday (Christian)
April 5 Easter (Christian)
Photo for the Week
We have Recreation programs to get tots, teens, adults and seniors moving, thinking, creating and exploring! Check out the Summer Recreation Guide, then register online for classes.
Quote for the Week
Talent wins games, but teamwork wins championships.
— Michael Jordan
__________________
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.