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: 06/10/26
News You Can Grow With
Join Us TODAY for a Community Meeting on the Arcade‑Cripple Creek Trail Extension
The City of Citrus Heights invites community members to attend a meeting for the Arcade‑Cripple Creek Trail: Sylvan to Stock Ranch Extension Project. The City is planning the next phase of the trail, extending it from Stock Ranch Nature Preserve to Sylvan Road and supporting the City’s vision for a connected citywide trail network.
At the meeting, community members can learn more about the project, review results from environmental technical studies, and provide comments on the draft environmental document. The project team will also share key proposed features, including a 10‑foot‑wide paved multi‑use trail, a signalized Sylvan Road crossing, a creek crossing, and trail lighting.
When: TODAY! Thursday, June 4, 5:30–7:00 p.m.
Where: Sylvan Community Center, 7521 Community Drive
City Scoop Summer Series Returns June 17
Kick off summer with a sweet treat at the City Scoop Summer Series! Join neighbors, Neighborhood Area leaders and City staff for an evening of free ice cream, community connection and local updates.
Our first City Scoop of the summer will take place on:
Wednesday, June 17
Tempo Park
6:30–8 p.m.
City Scoop events are designed to bring neighbors together in a fun and casual setting while highlighting ways residents can get involved in their community.
Can’t attend the first City Scoop? A second event will be held on Wednesday, July 15 at Sylvan Middle School.
All City Scoop events are free and open to the community. Residents are encouraged to attend the location closest to their neighborhood.
Interested in sponsoring a City Scoop event?
We’re currently seeking ice cream sponsors to help make these events possible. For more information, contact mbrown@citrusheights.net.
Apply Now for the Citrus Heights Youth Advisory Commission
The City is now accepting applications for its new Youth Advisory Commission, giving local students a chance to help shape programs, projects and initiatives that impact youth in the community.
The commission will include 13 students in grades 8–12 who will meet monthly at City Hall from September through May to share ideas, advise City leaders and participate in community projects and events.
Students must live in Citrus Heights and commit to attending monthly meetings.
If you want to build leadership skills, get involved in your community and make your voice heard, apply now at: www.citrusheights.net/youthadvisorycommission
Celebrate America’s 250th Birthday at the Stars & Stripes Celebration
Join us for an evening of patriotic fun, community spirit and fireworks as Citrus Heights celebrates America’s 250th birthday at the Stars & Stripes Celebration on Saturday, June 27, 2026, from 6-10 p.m. at Van Maren Park.
This free Independence Day event brings the community together for live entertainment, family-friendly activities, delicious food and a spectacular fireworks show. Enjoy live music from Big Crush, visit the Kids Zone hosted by Citrus Heights Police Activities League and Sunrise Recreation and Parks District, and spend time with family and friends before the night sky lights up with a patriotic fireworks display.
Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and patriotic spirit as we celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday together. We look forward to seeing you at Van Maren Park for one of Citrus Heights’ favorite summer events.
For event details, parking information, food trucks and answers to frequently asked questions (“Can I bring a cooler?”), visit the Stars & Stripes Celebration webpage.
Being Engaged in Your Neighborhood
Dear Citrus Heights Community
As I continue my monthly series highlighting service in Citrus Heights, this month I want to focus on a form of service that happens right outside our front doors: being engaged in your neighborhood. Strong, connected neighborhoods are one of the most effective tools we have for building a safer community, and that starts with neighbors who know, trust, and look out for one another.
Director Regina Cave Named APWA Top Ten Public Works Leader
The City of Citrus Heights is proud to congratulate General Services Director Regina Cave on being named one of the American Public Works Association’s (APWA) 2026 Top Ten Public Works Leaders of the Year.
The award is one of APWA’s highest honors and recognizes outstanding leadership, innovation and dedication to public service in the field of public works across North America.
Regina has served the Citrus Heights community for more than 26 years, helping lead projects and programs that support infrastructure, beautification, community events, facilities and overall quality of life for residents and businesses.
Congratulations, Director Cave, on this well-deserved national recognition!
From the Desk of City Manager Feeney: Aligning Priorities & Resources
“Good local government starts with listening. Residents expect their local government to pay attention to the issues they experience every day and respond in practical, measurable ways. That is why community engagement continues to play such an important role in the decisions we make.”
Help Keep Road Improvements on Schedule
As Citrus Heights continues its Pavement Restoration Program, residents are reminded to respect all posted road closures around freshly slurry-sealed streets. While the new surface may look ready, it requires time to properly cure before vehicles can safely drive on it.
Driving through closures can damage the new roadway, resulting in additional repairs, longer construction impacts and potential liability for the damage caused. Our contractors are working hard to reopen streets as quickly as possible, and your cooperation helps ensure a smooth, durable road surface that will serve the community for years to come.
Thank you for your patience as we invest in better roads throughout Citrus Heights. If you have questions about a specific project location or treatment, contact the General Services Department at (916) 727-4770 or servicerequestGSD@citrusheights.net.
Call for Artists: Art in City Hall 2026
Local non‑profit Citrus Heights Arts is now accepting submissions for the 2026 Art in City Hall exhibition, Unexpected Beauty. Artists ages 18+ are invited to submit original work inspired by the theme – beauty found in unexpected places, moments, and experiences.
Selected artwork will be displayed at City Hall. Submission deadline: June 24, 2026. Exhibition opens July 9.
Make the Most of Summer in Citrus Heights
Summer is the perfect time to get out, explore your community, and enjoy everything Citrus Heights has to offer. From concerts and family activities to community celebrations and neighborhood gatherings, there are plenty of ways to stay connected.
Check out the City’s Community Events Calendar and follow Sunrise Recreation & Park District for programs and events throughout the summer.
June Calendar Highlights
City Council Meetings
Wednesday, June 10 @ 6 p.m.
Wednesday, June 24 @ 6 p.m.
All meetings at City Hall, 6360 Fountain Square Drive. Subject to change – visit CitrusHeights.net for updates.
Open Roles at the City
Community Events
Pet Food Express: Yappy Hour! (June 5)
Single Mom Strong: Healthy Relationships Workshop (June 6)
Citrus Heights PAL: Summer Splash Pool Party (June 12)
Pet Food Express: Community Pack Walk (June 13)
Single Mom Strong: Men’s Mentoring Kickball Kick‑Off (June 14)
Galaxy Game Cafe: Dads & Drafts, Game Night with Dad (June 20)
Pet Food Express: Paw Print Paint Party (June 20)
Want your event listed? Sign up for Connect Citrus Heights.
You Ask, We Answer
Where can I go to stay cool during extreme heat?
The City of Citrus Heights operates a Cooling Center in the Police Department lobby at 6315 Fountain Square Drive on days when temperatures reach 100°F or higher. Open from 12 p.m. until temperatures drop below 100°F (but no earlier than 8 p.m.). Pets are not permitted. Additional regional cooling centers: Sacramento County 211.
How to Start a Business in Our City
Ever considered opening a business in Citrus Heights? The City’s Economic Development Work Plan focuses on supporting entrepreneurs. The Economic Development and Community Development teams collaborated on a step‑by‑step guide for people looking to start a business.
Citrus Heights e-Newsletter – May Tap to expand
Message from Ash Feeney — June Tap to expand
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 Website
Nominations 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.
City of Citrus Heights — Facebook
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