Q: With the rainy season on the horizon and the devastating wildfires still fresh in our minds, what investments or improvements has the city made to strengthen public safety and preparedness?
One of the top priorities for the Santa Clarita City Council is our public safety and emergency preparedness. Over the years, Santa Clarita has faced wildfires, floods and other emergencies that remind us how quickly conditions can change. To strengthen our response, we've made significant investments in tools and strategies that allow our first responders and city teams to act quickly and efficiently. A major step forward is the official arrival of our Emergency Mobile Command Unit, a 45-foot, multi-use vehicle that brings our Emergency Operations Center directly to the scene of a crisis. Equipped with advanced communications, workstations and conferencing capabilities, it allows Santa Clarita, the Los Angeles County Fire Department and the Sheriff's Department to coordinate in real time during emergencies. Beyond responding to crises, the Mobile Command Unit will also be used at community events to educate residents about emergency preparedness, helping families understand how to stay safe before, during and after a disaster. Investments like this reflect Santa Clarita's commitment to keeping residents safe, building resilience and ensuring our community is prepared for whatever challenges may arise.

Q: Community events are such a big part of what makes Santa Clarita special - what is one you're looking forward to?
Santa Clarita's Family Literacy Festival is set to make learning the main attraction once again. Coming up on Saturday, December 6, from 10am to 1pm, the 18th Annual Family Literacy Festival is a great example of our city's dedication to literacy and learning, and it offers a morning full of fun for our children and their families. Hosted at the Santa Clarita Public Library Old Town Newhall Branch, it will be a day that brings the community together to celebrate the joy of reading. This year's circus-themed festival, "Under the Big Top: Where the Story Never Stops," will feature colorful decorations, circus-themed giveaways and special guest characters including Pete the Cat and Piggie and Elephant. Families can enjoy storytimes with our librarians in a tented area, as well as themed crafts like clown hats and ties and colorful painted faces. For those who prefer some friendly competition, games such as cornhole, balloon darts, giant Jenga, Connect 4 and Tetris will be available for all ages to enjoy. Events like this remind us that when a community comes together to celebrate learning, imagination and connection, everyone leaves inspired.

Q: As we approach the holiday season, what's your message to residents about supporting our community?
The holiday season is a wonderful time to come together - reconnecting with family, enjoying traditions and looking out for our community members who may need extra support. One of the easiest ways to make a big impact is by shopping and giving locally. Santa Clarita was recently ranked the number six "Most Business-Friendly City" in LA County, a recognition that reflects our small town's strong support for local entrepreneurs and small businesses. Choosing to eat and shop local for gifts, meals and treats not only supports our city's economy but helps keep our neighborhoods thriving and business-friendly. Many nearby retailers and restaurants are also partnering with nonprofits, so your purchases will directly benefit families, seniors and children in need. A list of local organizations and nonprofits can be found on our community links page on santaclarita.gov.
Giving back can also include volunteering or donating - whether helping at food and toy drives, providing essential items to local nonprofits or simply checking on neighbors. By combining our time, resources and spending power locally, we strengthen our community in meaningful ways. This holiday season, let's show the spirit of Santa Clarita by choosing local businesses and helping others for a joyous and memorable season.