I want to begin this week's letter with a message that bears repeating: there is no place for hate in Calabasas. In remembrance of Oct. 7, the day Hamas launched an attack on Israel, the City Council is issuing a proclamation against antisemitism, something we have had to do too many times. In my short time on Council, we have spoken out against acts of hate directed at many communities, including Persians, Asians, Jews, Armenians and others. These have been spurred by national news, activists from our community and at other times by concerns raised locally. The divisiveness has to end, and the way we do that is by creating a place where kindness, respect and love prevail. Please join us in this mission.

Let’s choose to welcome those around us with a smile. When you cross paths with a stranger, say hello. When you pass your neighbors on the street, introduce yourself and take a moment to connect. When you see someone in need of help, give it. When you witness someone being attacked, by words or by deeds, speak up and intervene. Nobody should have to endure prejudice or feel that they must hide who they are out of fear.

This month also marks the start of National Bullying Prevention Month, which we will be recognizing in Calabasas. As we get closer to Unity Day on Oct. 22, I will share more about how our community can come together to support children, foster respect and make sure every voice feels safe and valued.

Together, we can continue building a Calabasas where everyone belongs.

City Council Study Session – Oct. 6
The Calabasas City Council will hold a special study session on Monday, Oct. 6, at 5 p.m. to discuss revenue-generating options for the City’s General Fund, with a focus on exploring a potential local sales tax measure.

This meeting is an opportunity to learn more about the City’s fiscal challenges, understand how a sales tax could impact residents and visitors and share your input with the Council. Your participation will help shape the City’s financial future.

To learn more, view the meeting agenda.

Walk to School Day 
On Wednesday, Oct. 1, Calabasas students and the members of the City Council took part in Walk to School Day to celebrate the benefits of walking and biking to school and highlight the importance of safe routes, healthy lifestyles and neighborhood connections.

I enjoyed joining students on their walk to Lupin Hill Elementary School. A big thank-you to Dr. Marzouk and everyone who participated and helped make this community tradition a success!

Learn Sustainable Gardening This Fall
The Las Virgenes–Triunfo Joint Powers Authority is hosting two free workshops this October to help residents create and maintain water-wise, sustainable landscapes.

• Native Garden Maintenance – Fall & Winter Techniques, Oct. 4. Participate at the Las Virgenes Boardroom & Sustainability Garden, 4232 Las Virgenes Road, from 9 to 11 a.m. This hands-on class will cover pruning, shaping, irrigation tips and eco-friendly ways to keep your native plants thriving year-round. Register here.
• Hands-On Drip Irrigation Workshop, Oct. 18. Enjoy this interactive workshop at the Triunfo Water & Sanitation District, 370 N. Westlake Blvd., Suite 100, from 9 to 11 a.m. UC Master Gardeners of Ventura County will guide participants through designing and assembling a drip irrigation system to keep landscapes healthy and conserve water. Register here.

Both workshops are free and open to the community. Please note that portions will be held outdoors — bring a hat, sunscreen or jacket as needed.

Explore Nature at King Gillette Ranch 

• Tai Chi & Meditation — Oct. 4, 10 a.m. Improve balance, reduce stress and enjoy nature with a guided Tai Chi and meditation session. All experience levels are welcome. Learn more.

Water Rate Study
As residents of Southern California, we understand the importance of conserving our limited water resources. While each of us plays a role in managing water usage at home, the Las Virgenes Municipal Water District (LVMWD) oversees the broader management of water in our area.

To continue providing safe, reliable and environmentally responsible water and sanitation services for years to come, LVMWD is proposing updates to water rates. These updates are designed to keep rates fair across all customer classes, encourage efficient water use, maintain financial stability, comply with state law and support the continued delivery of essential services.

The District is holding a public hearing on Wednesday, Oct. 9, at 9 a.m. at 4232 Las Virgenes Road and via Zoom to review the proposed rate changes. I encourage you to attend, learn more and share your input.

Learn more about the rate study.

Community Forum for the Objective Design Standards – Oct. 14
The City of Calabasas is developing Objective Design Standards to create clear architectural and site design guidelines for multifamily and mixed-use housing projects. The goal of these standards is to streamline the review process while ensuring new developments align with state housing laws.

A community workshop will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 14, at 6 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers, where City staff and the project consultant will present objectives, work completed to date and next steps. I encourage you to attend, share your ideas and help shape the future of housing in Calabasas.

Learn more.

Expert Insights into History Speaker Series – Oct. 14
Join the Leonis Adobe Museum and the Calabasas Library for the next session of the Expert Insights into History Speaker Series on Tuesday, Oct. 14, at 5:30 p.m. at the Calabasas Library.

Film director, writer and producer Mark Tapio Kines will share his ongoing project, L.A. Street Names, launched in 2022. Mark has researched the origins of over 1,500 street names across Los Angeles County and will discuss his fascinating discoveries.

This event is free and open to the public. 

Learn more.

Calabasas Pumpkin Festival – Oct. 19
Celebrate the season at the Calabasas Pumpkin Festival on Sunday, Oct. 19, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Juan Bautista de Anza Park. The day will feature a pumpkin patch, live music, fall treats, inflatable rides, a reptile and bug show and a variety of family-friendly activities.

Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere with entertainment, contests and more. Online tickets cost $15 per person; day-of tickets cost $20. Children younger than 2 are admitted free.

Purchase tickets and view more information here. 

Explore the Beauty of Calabasas Trails
Fall is a wonderful time to get outside and enjoy the scenic trails throughout our community. Whether you’re walking, hiking or biking, Calabasas offers paths for all skill levels that showcase our rolling hills and breathtaking views. Take some time this week to enjoy nature, get active and experience the peaceful surroundings right in our own backyard.

As the weekend approaches, I hope you have the chance to enjoy all that our community has to offer. Wherever your plans take you, please stay safe and take care and thank you for helping make Calabasas such a wonderful place to call home.

Wishing you a safe and enjoyable weekend,

– Peter