After celebrating the highlights of our City’s progress at this week’s State of the City, it feels especially fitting to close out our department highlights with one of our small but mighty teams: the City Clerk’s Department. In this newsletter, you’ll also find details on upcoming community events, seasonal programs and opportunities to stay engaged as we head into the holiday season. Thank you for staying connected and for being an essential part of our Calabasas community.

State of the City 2025
We came together to celebrate the achievements of our City over the past year at the annual State of the City event held on Nov. 18. It was a wonderful evening filled with community pride, meaningful conversations and a shared appreciation for all we’ve accomplished together. I truly enjoyed connecting with those who attended and reflecting on our progress — from new initiatives and infrastructure improvements to the programs and services that make Calabasas such a remarkable place to live.

Another of the evening’s meaningful highlights was the presentation of Organization of the Year, awarded to the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy.

For decades, the Conservancy has been a dedicated steward of our open spaces, trails and natural resources, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the beauty and benefits of the surrounding mountains. Their longstanding partnership with Calabasas has helped preserve land, protect wildlife habitats and expand equitable access to outdoor recreation that continues to shape the City’s exceptional quality of life.

Thank you to our community for all you do to support the projects, partnerships and progress that move our City forward. If you were unable to join us, I invite you to take a moment to watch this video recapping the year's highlights and celebrating the collective efforts that continue to shape our community’s future.   

A Peek into the City Clerk’s Department
The City Clerk’s Department is often described as the “backbone” of local government, and for good reason. The department plays a vital role in ensuring transparency, accessibility and integrity for Calabasas residents.

While the City Clerk’s Department manages routine tasks, priorities can shift quickly depending on the needs of the moment. No two days are the same as the team oversees public records, elections, City Council meetings, agendas, contracts and the City’s Municipal Code.

City Clerk Kristy Buxkemper shared, “I absolutely love serving my community, colleagues and our wonderful City Council. Working in the City Clerk’s Office provides a unique opportunity to not only collaborate with every department, but we also have the privilege of being on the front line, serving our residents and the public. City Clerks often wear many hats and juggle many duties, but we are always willing to help. My top priority is ensuring the City and our residents can rely on the City Clerk’s Office to assist them with any needs.”

The City Clerk’s Department takes pride in serving the community through collaboration, transparency, and commitment to meaningful public service. Their work helps build trust and ensures that Calabasas government remains open, accessible and responsive to residents.

We are grateful for their dedication and lasting impact on our community.

From left to right: Kristy Buxkemper – City Clerk, Michelle Butman – Office Assistant

Making a Difference: Caring Calabasas Club
The Calabasas Senior Center is more than a gathering place, it’s a vibrant hub for adults 50 and older to learn, socialize and stay active through fitness and wellness classes, lectures, excursions, and clubs. The Caring Calabasas Club is a service-focused group made up of senior volunteers who give back to the community by collecting needed goods, crafting items and donating to local charities. Their work not only provides direct support to others but also creates multigenerational connections.

This holiday season, the City of Calabasas and the Caring Calabasas Club have partnered with The Commons at Calabasas for their Annual Holiday Toy Drive. Residents and visitors can drop off new, unwrapped toys for children of all ages through Dec. 11. All gifts collected benefit the Volunteer League of the San Fernando Valley, ensuring families in need in our region receive a joyful holiday. 

Drop-off locations at The Commons include: 

• Barnes and Noble
• Marmalade Café
• Poppy Bank

Your donation, no matter how small, helps spark hope and kindness this holiday season. Please consider giving back and making a meaningful difference in our community. 

Learn more.

City Hall Closure & Council Meeting Update
City Hall will be closed Thursday, Nov. 27, and Friday, Nov. 28, in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday. Please note that there will also be no City Council meeting on Wednesday, Nov. 26. Wishing you a wonderful holiday with family and friends. Thank you for being an important part of our community.

Pre‑Approved Accessory Dwelling Unit Plans
Homeowners in Calabasas have a smoother path to adding an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) to their property. The City’s pre‑approved ADU plans are available in three size configurations (studio, one‑bedroom, two‑bedroom) and three exterior architectural styles (Spanish, cottage and ranch).

These ready‑to‑use plans are fully code‑compliant, which means faster permit review and lower upfront costs. Whether you’re building for extra income, a home office or housing family members, this program supports your goal while helping the City meet housing needs and preserve neighborhood character. 

To learn more and get started, visit the Building & Safety Division’s ADU page.

Holiday Roundup at the Leonis Adobe Museum – Dec. 6
Celebrate the holiday season with a family-friendly holiday roundup on Saturday, Dec. 6, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Leonis Adobe Museum in Old Town Calabasas. 

Enjoy hands‑on holiday crafts, live music, demonstrations of 1880s rancho life and unique gift‑shop finds. Admission is $8, and free for children under 2 and museum members.

Bring your loved ones for a festive afternoon celebrating local history, family fun and the start of the season.

Learn more about the event.

Santa Paws Photo Booth – Dec. 6
Has your pet been naughty or nice this holiday season? Bring your furry friends and holiday cheer to the Santa Paws Photo Booth at Wild Walnut Park on Saturday, Dec. 6, from 9 to 11 a.m. Snap a festive polaroid-style photo with your pet in front of seasonal backdrops, complete with props and holiday spirit. Holiday outfits are encouraged.

We can’t wait to see your festive pets!

Learn more. 

Apply to Serve on a City Committee or Commission
The City of Calabasas is now accepting applications for open seats on several committees and commissions, including:

• Calabasas Community Foundation: Two positions available, three-year terms
• Library Commission: One vacancy, term ends January 2027
• Mayor’s Youth Council: 20 positions available, one-year terms
• Architectural Review Panel: Five positions available, two-year terms

All applicants must be Calabasas residents and eligible electors. Mayor’s Youth Council applicants are exempt from the elector requirement.

Submit your application to serve on a commission by Friday, Dec. 12, to City Clerk Kristy Buxkemper at: kbuxkemper@cityofcalabasas.com.

Serving on a City committee or commission is a meaningful way to contribute your skills, represent your community and help shape local programs, policies and public services. I invite all who are able to take advantage of this opportunity to learn more about City operations, collaborate with fellow residents and make a positive impact on Calabasas.

Learn more about each commission and apply here.

Calabasas Farmers Market
Support local growers and artisans at the Calabasas Farmers Market, held every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Old Town Calabasas (23504 Calabasas Road). Explore fresh, seasonal produce, discover unique handmade goods and enjoy a welcoming community atmosphere. It’s the perfect weekend stop to shop local and connect with neighbors.

Watch this short video to get inspired for your next visit.

I hope you enjoy your weekend and take advantage of the opportunities to give back and come together as a community. Thank you for staying engaged and for being an essential part of what makes our city thrive.

Best,
Peter