Citrus Heights News
🗺️ City News & Information
Follow public updates from Citrus Heights in one organized civic information hub.
Includes newsletters, City Council items, City Manager messages, community programs, local events, business resources, and other City-shared updates.
CITY OF CITRUS HEIGHTS
e–Newsletter
City Council:
Latest Meeting: 07/08/26
July Business Bulletin Tap to expand

WHAT’S NEW
Business of Distinction Pride of Place Winner: Trust Barbershop
The City of Citrus Heights is proud to recognize Trust Barbershop as the latest recipient of the Business of Distinction – Pride of Place award.
Located in the Grand Oaks Shopping Center, Trust Barbershop transformed a former Check Into Cash storefront into a modern barbershop through significant investments in the property’s interior and exterior.
Congratulations to owner Ross and the Trust Barbershop team on this well-deserved recognition.


Nominations for the Top of Trade Award will open on July 20th. You can visit the Business of Distinction web page for more information and to submit your nomination.
Trade In Your Gas-Powered Lawn Equipment Locally
Citrus Heights residents can take advantage of the Charlene McGhee Memorial Lawn and Garden Program to replace eligible gas-powered lawn and garden equipment with battery-powered alternatives.
Two Citrus Heights retailers are participating in the program, making it easy to apply for a voucher and shop locally. If approved, you can trade in eligible gas-powered equipment and receive a voucher toward the purchase of new battery-powered landscaping equipment at participating retailers. Voucher amounts vary by equipment type, and applicants must meet program eligibility requirements.
The program is expected to launch in August. Now is a great time to reach out to a participating vendor to discuss eligibility, qualifying equipment, and what to expect during the application process.
- Miller’s Ace Hardware | 8077 Madison Ave | (916) 760-8110 | store@millersaceistheplace.com
- Citrus Heights Mower | 7238 Auburn Blvd | (916) 722-2825
Citrus Heights Invest in Local Entrepreneurs

Citrus Heights is proud to partner with the Citrus Heights Chamber of Commerce to launch a Chamber Membership Scholarship pilot for eligible new storefront businesses. The program gives new business owners a strong network of local resources and support during their first year in business.
This pilot program reflects the City’s continued investment in entrepreneurship and is one more way we’re helping build a strong local business community.
CONNECT & GROW
Government Contracting Networking Event

Join the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the City of Citrus Heights for a free procurement networking event featuring public agencies.
This event is an opportunity to meet agency representatives, connect with contractors, and learn about upcoming public contracting opportunities. It is ideal for construction, engineering, and related businesses interested in bidding on government contracts.
- Thursday, July 23
- 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
- 6501 Sylvan Road, Citrus Heights
Calling All Workforce Development Partners
Does your organization provide workforce development services? We’d love to connect.
The City of Citrus Heights is compiling a directory of workforce development resources to better connect businesses and employers with available support. If your organization provides services such as workforce preparation, job placement, employer connections, technical or skills training, apprenticeships, or other workforce development programs, we’d like to learn more.
Our goal is to incorporate these resources into our day-to-day business outreach and feature participating organizations on the City’s website to help connect the community with available services.
Email aaguirre@citrusheights.net and join our growing network of workforce development partners.
COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP
Grow Your Leadership

The Citrus Heights Chamber of Commerce is now accepting applications for the Leadership Citrus Heights Class of 2026–2027.
This nine-month program gives participants a behind-the-scenes look at local government, public safety, education, and business while building practical leadership, collaboration, and communication skills. Participants also work together on a community project that creates a lasting impact in Citrus Heights.
The program meets on the second Thursday of each month from September 2026 through May 2027. Chamber member tuition is $795, non-member tuition is $895, and limited scholarships are available.
Applications are due August 28, 2026. Learn more and apply by contacting chamber@chchamber.com.
Big Day of Service
May 16, 2026, Big Day of Service (BDOS) was a success. Friends, neighbors, and community leaders from across Citrus Heights, Orangevale, and Fair Oaks gathered to work on community projects!
The BDOS team is looking for the core event and project planning team for the 2027 Big Day of Service. Business owners passionate about community service and looking to get involved can learn more by visiting the webpage.

Citrus Heights e-Newsletter – June Tap to expand
Citrus Heights e-Newsletter – May Tap to expand
Message from Ash Feeney — June Tap to expand
June ’26 Business Bulletin Tap to expand

AUBURN BOULEVARD UPDATES
Overnight Closure Planned for Auburn Boulevard Gateway Arch Installation

As part of the Auburn Boulevard Complete Streets Phase 2 Project, crews are preparing to install the new Gateway Arch across Auburn Boulevard. To safely complete this work, Auburn Boulevard will be fully closed overnight between Whyte Avenue and Twin Oaks Avenue on June 23 and June 24.
Motorists will be detoured via Orlando Avenue, Cirby Way, Sunrise Avenue/Boulevard, and Twin Oaks Avenue. Following installation, in early July, crews will activate the new traffic signal associated with the Gateway Arch.
Thank you for your patience as this exciting milestone takes shape. The Auburn Boulevard Complete Streets Phase 2 Project remains on schedule and is expected to be completed in the coming months.
We look forward to celebrating the completion of a project that will serve as a welcoming gateway to Auburn Boulevard and further highlight the corridor as a place to shop, dine, play, and do business!
WHAT’S NEW
Turn Foot Traffic into Business Intelligence
The City now offers sample Business Insights Snapshots that provide information on visitor trends, trade areas, peak visitation times, and customer behavior patterns.
Interested in learning more about how these insights can support your business? Contact Alicia Aguirre with the Economic Development & Community Engagement team at aaguirre@citrusheights.net to request a sample report. This is just one of the complimentary business support services offered by the City’s Economic Development & Community Engagement team to help Citrus Heights businesses grow and succeed.
Trade Area Snapshot
Gain insight into where visitors are coming from and how far customers are traveling to reach your business or corridor.
Peak Visit Times
Understand when activity around your storefront or corridor is highest throughout the week.
Dwell Time Trends
Explore how long visitors tend to spend within a business area or corridor.
SUMMER EVENTS IN CITRUS HEIGHTS
City Scoop

City Scoop is the City’s neighborhood ice cream social series designed to bring residents together for summer evenings, local updates, and community connection. This event is free and community-focused with strong neighborhood turnout.
Interested in sponsoring ice cream at the upcoming July City Scoop? Reach out to mbrown@citrusheights.net
2026 Dates:
- June 17 at Tempo Park 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
- July 15 at Sylvan Middle School 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Enjoy a sweet treat while connecting with your community!
Citrus Nights

Citrus Nights returns this fall with live music, food trucks, and family-friendly evenings at Van Maren Park. Businesses interested in sponsorship opportunities or food truck participation should email dcarpenter@citrusheights.net
2026 Dates:
- August 21
- September 18
Join us for live music, local food, and a fun-filled summer evening!
Community Event Season Is Back in Citrus Heights With Opportunities for Local Businesses
Citrus Heights has a full summer lineup ahead, and there are several ways for local businesses to get involved.
Whether you’re looking to pop up as a vendor, get your brand in front of residents, or support community programming through sponsorship, opportunities are available throughout the season.
Visit the new Citrus Heights Vendor & Sponsorship Opportunities webpage to explore upcoming events and review participation options.
Want to learn how to use Canva for your business?
May Business Bulletin Tap to expand

WHAT’S NEW
Trades, Training, and Workforce Pathways
Workforce development remains a focus area in the City’s Economic Development Work Plan as businesses across industries continue navigating workforce needs. Between National Skilled Trades Day earlier this month and Citrus Heights’ upcoming Tools of the Trade event tomorrow, apprenticeship and skilled trades pathways are top of mind.

Tools of the Trade
For businesses interested in workforce connections, industry networking, or learning more about apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship pathways, Tools of the Trade offers an opportunity to connect with training organizations, workforce partners, and employers in the skilled trades ecosystem.
Event Details:
When: Thursday, May 14 | 2:00–5:00 p.m.
Where: Van Maren Park, 6601 Thalia Way, Citrus Heights
Exploring Additional Apprenticeship Pathways
If you are looking for more information about apprenticeship programs in the region, the Department of Industrial Relations’ Division of Apprenticeship Standards offers a search tool for opportunities in a wide range of construction trades, including:
- Communications Technician
- Highways Maintenance Workers
- Electric Motor Mechanic
- Building Construction Inspector
- Crane Operator
- Electrical Worker
Explore apprenticeship opportunities at: www.dir.ca.gov/das
PROGRAMS & RESOURCES
Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) Shelf

The Citrus Heights Police Department’s CPTED Library of Things gives businesses the opportunity to explore practical deterrence tools and site strategies without immediately taking on the full upfront cost.
After a CPTED consultation with Citrus Heights Police Department, businesses have access to temporary-use resources such as motion-activated lighting, surveillance trailers, mosquito alarms, and anti-illegal dumping signage. The program is designed to let businesses test different approaches and determine what makes the most sense for their property and operating environment.
Businesses interested in scheduling a CPTED consultation or exploring available resources can contact pop@citrusheights.net. Read more about CPTED tools HERE.
Business of Distinction – Pride of Place Nominations close May 22nd

Nominations for this quarter’s Business of Distinction award close next week. The current theme, Pride of Place, recognizes businesses that have made meaningful investments into their physical space through property improvements, reinvestment, beautification efforts, or activation of previously vacant storefronts.
Community members are encouraged to nominate businesses that are contributing to the appearance and experience of Citrus Heights commercial areas. Self-nominations are also welcome!
The Business of Distinction program is a quarterly recognition initiative that celebrates businesses contributing positively to the Citrus Heights community. For award criteria and nomination information, visit CitrusHeights.net/LoveLocal.
Funding Support for Restaurant Operators

For restaurant businesses considering technology upgrades, retention, or operational improvements: Restaurants Care applications open on June 1, with submissions due by June 30. This funding opportunity is only available once per year.
Eligible funding may support expenses such as kitchen equipment, technology upgrades, employee training and retention efforts, and unforeseen hardship‑related costs. Businesses are encouraged to review the application checklist and website early to better understand eligibility requirements and the application process. Visit the program website HERE.
Please note: This program is administered through the California Restaurants Care and is not funded or operated by the City of Citrus Heights.
April Business Bulletin Tap to expand

WHAT’S NEW
May is Bike Month!
Citrus Heights is kicking off “May is Bike Month” with a guided community ride along the Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail. The ride brings together families, residents, and trail users, with time to gather at the park before and after. An easy setting for businesses to show up or tie in a Bike Month promotion.
Ways your Business Can Participate
- Set up a table or small activation at the event
- Offer a Bike Month promotion or discount
- Connect with riders before or after the ride
Event Details:
When: Thursday, May 7 | 3:00–4:30 p.m.
Where: C-Bar-C Community Park, 8275 Oak Avenue
The route is a staff-guided ride along the Arcade-Cripple Creek Trail with a brief stop at Tempo Park. About 3 miles total, designed for all ages.
The City will also be on-site, sharing updates on upcoming projects, including the Gateway Activation Project and trail extensions. Light snacks and water will be available for participants. Visit the Community Bike Ride website for more information. Gateway Activation Project.
Visit the Community Bike Ride Page for more details.
Are you a business interested in participating? Reach out to Alicia Aguirre at aaguirre@citrusheights.net or (916)727-4807 to coordinate your involvement.
Street Improvements Underway Throughout Citrus Heights
Citrus Heights’ Pavement Maintenance Program is progressing, with resurfacing work underway across neighborhoods. For the 2025 cycle, localized pavement repairs are wrapping up. Work will continue in phases over the coming months, with completion expected this year.
This program is part of a multi-year effort to maintain and extend the life of local streets, with additional cycles already in design for 2026 and 2027. For more information on the Pavement Maintenance Program, visit the city website.
Madison Avenue Repaving
Work is underway on Madison Avenue between San Juan Avenue and Fair Oaks Boulevard. Accessibility upgrades have been completed, and roadway repaving and striping are in progress through the end of April. The project, led by Sacramento County, also includes new curb ramps and traffic signal upgrades at key intersections.
Auburn Boulevard Complete Streets Phase 2
Construction continues on Auburn Boulevard as part of the Complete Streets Phase 2 project. Work remains on schedule, with completion anticipated in summer 2026.
For more information on Citrus Heights Capital Improvement Projects, click here.
PROGRAMS
Add Shade to Your Lot with the COOL Program
The City of Citrus Heights is launching the COOL Program (Canopy Over Our Lots), a 50% cost share grant to support landscaping improvements that add shade to commercial parking areas.
As we head into warmer months, we’re reminded how much shade shapes the shopping experience. If your lot could use more tree shading, apply now to move your project forward!
Program Basics
- 1:1 cost share, up to $20,000 per project
- Eligible for shade trees, planting islands, irrigation improvements, and related work
- Focused on existing commercial parking areas
Priority is given to projects that increase shade in high-use areas, such as main parking rows, walkways, and visible frontages.
For more information about eligibility and requirements, visit the Cool Program WebsiteNominations Are Now Open for the 2026 Business of Distinction Pride of Place Award
Citrus Heights recognizes small businesses as a key part of the community. The Business of Distinction program is a quarterly recognition that highlights businesses making a positive impact.
This quarter’s theme is Pride of Place, recognizing businesses that have invested in and brought new life to a space. This can include visible improvements to a property or the activation of a previously vacant location.
Know a business that’s made a visible investment in their space? Submit a nomination on the City website. Self-nominations are welcome.
Award Requirements:
- Located in Citrus Heights with a valid business license
- Completed a visible renovation or reinvestment within the past three years
- Demonstrates clear improvement in property condition and appearance
- Shows a positive impact on the surrounding area
Nominations close May 22. Submit your nomination today!
EVENTS

Thanks to all Who Took Part in the Mesa Verde Career Fair
Thank you to everyone who joined Mesa Verde High School for Career Day. Citrus Heights City Hall staff participated by sharing with students details about their career paths and highlighting the range of opportunities within city government.
We were glad to see Citrus Heights businesses, like All Quality Graphics, take part. If you missed the event but are interested in future opportunities, connect with Kimberly Guillen at kimberly.guillen@sanjuan.edu.
All Quality Graphics (link)
Tools of the Trade: Showcase Your Business to Job Seekers & Students
The City of Citrus Heights will host the 5th Annual Tools of the Trade Education and Career Fair on Thursday, May 14, 2026, from 2–5 PM at Van Maren Park.
This free event connects students, families, and job seekers to careers in public works and the skilled trades. Local businesses are invited to participate as free vendors by hosting a booth or bringing equipment.
Sponsorship opportunities are also available. Sign up or learn more at generalservices@citrusheights.net.
― Lily Tomlin
March Business Bulletin Tap to expand

WHAT’S NEW
Citrus Heights Advances Sunrise Mall Redevelopment

The City of Citrus Heights has taken a major step toward advancing redevelopment of the Sunrise Mall property by establishing a public-private partnership framework with Sacramento-based sports and entertainment development firm The Mettle Shop for the development of the Sunrise Sports Center, a proposed regional sports and entertainment complex envisioned as a catalyst project within the Sunrise Tomorrow Specific Plan.
The proposed Sunrise Sports Center would occupy approximately 13.75 acres of the 100-acre Sunrise Mall property, serving as a catalyst project intended to activate the site and attract additional investment across the remaining acreage. The Sunrise Tomorrow Specific Plan has provided the framework, alongside ongoing work on infrastructure, financing, and partnerships to support development at this scale.
If ultimately approved later this year, the Sunrise Sports Center would serve as a catalytic anchor helping stimulate redevelopment across the remaining 85+ acres of the Sunrise Tomorrow site, advancing the City’s vision for a vibrant regional destination. Read the full News Flash here.
For more information on the Sunrise Tomorrow Specific Plan, visit the project web page.
Honey Donuts Named 2026 Legacy Business of Distinction

Congratulations to Honey Donuts, recipient of the 2026 Business of Distinction: Legacy Award.
Serving Citrus Heights since 1997, this locally owned shop has built a reputation for classic donuts and standout service. Nominations consistently highlighted the personal touch, from remembering names and favorite orders to creating a place customers return to again and again.
The Legacy Award recognizes Citrus Heights businesses with 15+ years of service and a strong presence in the community. After 29 years of serving Citrus Heights, Honey Donuts checks every box!
Find Honey Donuts at 6401 Antelope Rd. Click here for more information on the Business of Distinction recognition program.
RESOURCES
Launch Your Food Concept in Citrus Heights

A new Entrepreneurship and Food Enterprise resource is now live!
For entrepreneurs looking to explore a food concept or test something new, the page highlights local commercial kitchen space and food startup incubation opportunities. It also links to permitting and licensing guidance through the City’s Starting a Business page.
Supporting entrepreneurship is a key part of Citrus Heights’ economic development approach, and access to commercial kitchen space and early-stage resources can make a difference when getting started. This page highlights local options available to food entrepreneurs.
Hardship Grants for Food and Beverage Workers

Restaurants Care, through the California Restaurant Foundation, offers direct grants to food and beverage workers facing unexpected hardship.
Eligible events include illness, injury, natural disasters, death in the family, or housing emergencies. Grants of up to $2,500 are available and do not need to be repaid. The program is open year-round.
Food and beverage businesses can use this resource to support staff during difficult times. Consider sharing the application directly, posting the flyer in break rooms or staff areas, or including it in internal communications so employees know help is available.
For more information about eligibility and the application process, visit restaurantscare.org/help.
EVENTS

Give Back to Your Community with Big Day of Service
The Big Day of Service takes place Saturday, May 16, bringing together volunteers across Citrus Heights, Orangevale, and Fair Oaks for community improvement projects in a single day.
Efforts range from beautification to hands-on support for local organizations. Businesses can participate by sponsoring a project, suggesting a project, or serving as a project lead—an opportunity to engage employees and connect with the community.
Learn more by contacting Caryl Balko at steveandcaryl@gmail.com.

Tools of the Trade: Showcase Your Business to Job Seekers & Students
The City of Citrus Heights will host the 5th Annual Tools of the Trade Education and Career Fair on Thursday, May 14, 2026, from 2–5 PM at Van Maren Park.
This free event connects students, families, and job seekers to careers in public works and the skilled trades. Local businesses are invited to participate as free vendors by hosting a booth or bringing equipment.
Sponsorship opportunities are also available. Sign up or learn more at generalservices@citrusheights.net.
― Lily Tomlin
Message from Ash Feeney — Feb Tap to expand
February Business Bulletin Tap to expand

WHAT’S NEW

Celebrating Local Business:
Juice Time Grand Opening & Dark Heart Anniversary
On Friday, February 13, Juice Time celebrated its grand opening with a DJ, a line of excited customers, and a wide selection of fresh pressed juices and desserts. On the same day, DarkHeart Brewing marked its one year anniversary, celebrating a full year of serving the Citrus Heights community.
Be sure to visit both locations to support a new addition and a growing local milestone:
- Juice Time at 7887 Madison Ave, Suite C
- DarkHeart Brewing at 7110 Auburn Blvd.
Have a business milestone you’d like to celebrate? Reach out to the Citrus Heights Chamber of Commerce or visit their website www.chchamber.com.
GET INVOLVED
Inspire Students at Mesa Verde Career Day

Mesa Verde High School is looking for professionals willing to share their career journeys with students during Career Day on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, from 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM.
This is a great opportunity to inspire the next generation and give students a real-world glimpse into your field.
If you, your staff, or someone you know, would like to support local youth by participating, email kimberly.guillen@sanjuan.edu.
Tools of the Trade: Showcase Your Business to Job Seekers & Students

The City of Citrus Heights is hosting the 5th Annual Tools of the Trade Education and Career Fair on Thursday, May 14, 2026, from 2 PM to 5 PM at Van Maren Park. This free community event introduces students, families, and job seekers to careers in public works and the skilled trades through equipment displays and conversations with professionals.
Local businesses in public works or related fields are invited to participate by setting up an information booth to share career and training opportunities or perhaps bringing a vehicle or equipment. There is no cost to participate, and vendors receive dedicated time for setup before the event.
Sponsorship opportunities are available for organizations seeking additional visibility at the event.
To learn more or sign up as a free vendor or sponsor contact generalservices@citrusheights.net.
Give Back to Your Community with Big Day of Service
GET FEATURED
Citrus Heights Business Highlights
We’d love to feature your business across City communication channels!
As part of the Love Local initiative to boost visibility for Citrus Heights businesses, you can submit a Business Highlight form and photos to be showcased on our platforms. Don’t have photos or videos? No problem! Our team is happy to stop by and capture some for you.
Interested? Complete the Business Highlight form below to get started.
Citrus Heights Calendar
Our City Events Calendar is a great way to share your event with the community through official City channels. It appears on the City’s main homepage, and events added before the end of the month are also highlighted in our newsletter and social media at the beginning of the following month.
The calendar is populated directly by community organizations and partners. Events should be open to the Citrus Heights community and focused on bringing people together in our City. It is not intended for sales promotions or advertising. Follow this tutorial for step-by-step guidance.
If you need to make changes to your event after submitting, please email mbrown@citrusheights.net.





























