The image posted with this news article was AI-generated by ChatGPT. It is a representation of how I feel about the City Council, City staff, and its residents. I feel blessed to be here, and I feel like we can accomplish a lot together. Now, onto our update....
As we move deeper into the fall season, I wanted to provide an update on the projects, partnerships, and progress happening across the City. A lot of necessary groundwork is being laid right now—some of it very visible, and some of it behind the scenes to set us up for long-term improvement.
Water Tank Maintenance
The City is conducting an RFP for the inspection/maintenance of our City's five tanks. A mandatory pre-bid meeting for contractors will take place on October 22, and bids are due November 19. These inspections will help us assess the condition of our water system and plan responsible long-term maintenance.
Capital Planning Effort
We’ve begun a new capital planning process that asks each department to develop 1-year, 5-year, and 10-year plans for significant improvements and equipment. This long-term approach will help us better manage infrastructure, prioritize needs, and align resources responsibly.
Emergency Preparedness
The California Great Shake Out earthquake drill was completed with full participation from all departments. Each department has submitted a report, and a consolidated summary will be provided to both the City Council and the public. This effort helps us maintain readiness and improve coordination during emergencies.
Increasing Efficiency and Communication
Several operational improvements are being implemented to improve efficiency and customer service. One example is the addition of an automated envelope-inserting machine that reduces manual labor during utility billing cycles.
We are also exploring upgrades to the City’s website to improve online functionality, increase transparency, and support features such as meeting recording, automatic transcription, and easier access to public information. Since launching the City’s new Facebook page, community engagement has increased significantly, with over 100 followers joining within the first couple of weeks.
Exploring a Community Calendar
To help residents stay informed about events, I am working with local organizations to explore the idea of a community-wide shared calendar. I’ve spoken with the Chamber of Commerce and the College of the Siskiyous, and I will continue these conversations with the high school, elementary school, Siskiyou County Economic Development, and other community partners.
Regional and Local Partnerships
I met with several key partners this past week:
• College of the Siskiyous, to explore collaboration in workforce development and community programming.
• Crystal Geyser, to discuss workforce challenges, housing needs, and potential long-term partnerships.
• Pacific Power, to begin conversations about utility infrastructure, fire safety options, and future planning.
• Siskiyou County Economic Development, to coordinate regional economic development, downtown revitalization, and growth strategies with support from partners such as Roseburg.
Upcoming Community Events
The City is working closely with the Weed Chamber of Commerce on community events, including:
Trunk or Treat
Date: Saturday, October 25, 2025
Time: 5:00 to 7:30 PM
Location: Weed High School Stadium
Old-Fashioned Christmas and Tree Lighting Ceremony
Date: Saturday, November 29, 2025
Time: 5:00 to 7:00 PM
Location: City Park next to City Hall
The City will support the Christmas event by preparing the park, ensuring electrical access is operational, and making City Hall restrooms available.
Looking Ahead
If you haven't done so already, please fill out our City services survey no later than 25 October 2025. It can be accessed at the following link:
https://www.ci.weed.ca.us/forms/welcome-to-the-city-services-feedback-survey
A Town Hall Meeting/Listening Session will be conducted at City Hall on 28 October 2025 at 6:00 PM PST in the City Council Chambers.
A lot is happening—some visible, some foundational—but all of it is part of building a stronger future for Weed. I look forward to continuing this work alongside our residents, businesses, schools, nonprofits, and community leaders.
As always, thank you for your support, ideas, and engagement.