Q: It is almost voting day. What should residents know
about the upcoming City Council election?
This November, Santa Clarita residents will once again participate in our by-district City Council election. This election completes the City's transition to district-based elections. Three City Council seats will appear on the ballot, representing Districts 2, 4 and 5. Registered voters who live within those districts will vote for one councilmember who resides in their district to serve a four-year term. If you are unsure which district you live in, I encourage you to take a few minutes to verify your district before Election Day, so you know which City Council race will appear on your ballot. Whether you're voting for the first time or you've participated in every City election since incorporation, your vote is one of the most important ways to help shape Santa Clarita's future. Local government decisions affect the parks we enjoy, the roads we drive on, public safety services, recreation programs and the many amenities residents use every day. I encourage everyone to plan on voting on Election Day, Tuesday, November 3.

Q: With El Nino expected to bring the potential for significant storms this fall and winter, what can residents do now to prepare?
When it comes to severe weather, preparation is one of the most important things we can do to protect our families, homes and neighborhoods. While we cannot predict exactly when storms will arrive or how much rain they will bring, now is the time to get ready. The City of Santa Clarita is preparing by clearing debris from streets, maintaining and monitoring storm drains and inspecting parks, trails and City facilities. Residents also have an important role. Before the rain arrives, clear private drains and rain gutters, inspect your roof and slopes, make sure you have emergency supplies on hand and know the routes in and out of your neighborhood. During heavy rain, never walk or drive through flooded areas and stay away from channels, riverbeds and flood-control facilities. Just six inches of moving water can knock a person off their feet, while two feet can carry away a vehicle. Most importantly, stay informed. Visit readyforrain.santaclarita.gov for preparedness information, sandbag locations and other storm resources. Residents can also sign up for NIXLE emergency alerts by texting SCEMERGENCY to 888777.
A little preparation now can make a significant difference when the rain begins.

Q: Light Up Main Street is returning in November. What can residents look forward to this year?
Light Up Main Street has become one of my favorite Santa Clarita traditions since we launched the event in 2013. I remember bringing my kids when they were little and watching their faces light up along with the tens of thousands of lights up and down Main Street. Now that they are older, I am glad this is still an event we can enjoy together. This year, Light Up Main Street, presented by DrinkPak, returns to Old Town Newhall on Saturday, November 21, from 4pm to 8pm. Five blocks of Main Street will be filled with holiday activities, including live performances, photo opportunities, shopping, food trucks and activities for kids. It is a great opportunity to spend an evening with family and friends while also supporting the local shops and restaurants that make Old Town Newhall such a unique destination. This is more important than ever in the wake of the devastating fire in August that destroyed several of our beloved businesses. Whether Light Up Main Street is an annual tradition for your family or this will be your first time attending, I hope you will join us as we kick off the holiday season in Santa Clarita.