The Citrus Heights City Council recognized the winners of Republic Services’ Poster Contest for local K-8 students. This year’s prompt asked, “Who is your recycling hero?” Photo courtesy of the City of Citrus Heights

CITRUS HEIGHTS, CA (MPG) - Girl Scout Troop 559 led the flag salute at the Jan. 22 Citrus Heights City Council meeting as the group of second-year Daisies, working on their government badge, attended the meeting to see the process firsthand.

City Council welcomed Troop 559 and Mayor Jayna Karpinski-Costa said that Scout programs are a “terrific way” for young people to experience both “learning and sharing.”

“I’m impressed you decided to come visit us for your badge,” Vice-Mayor MariJane Lopez-Taff said.

Councilmember Tim Schaefer said he was “delighted” to have the troop attend the meeting and Councilmember Porsche Middleton said she loves Girl Scout cookies and will be stocking up on thin mints.

“You all are great businesspeople and I’m so excited for your cookie season,” said Councilmember Kelsey Nelson.

Republic Services, Citrus Heights’ residential garbage and recycling collection agency, presented the winners of its annual poster contest. In partnership with the San Juan Unified School District (SJUSD), the art contest is open to all kindergarten through eighth-grade students in Citrus Heights.

The prompt this year was “Who is your recycling hero?” and the 12 winning posters are featured in a calendar. Each winner also received a plastic Republic Services truck replica, a signed certificate and their framed artwork ready for display.

After reviewing hundreds of submissions, the following students were selected: (from Lichen K-8) Andres P. in seventh-grade; (from Skycrest) Allison A. in fourth-grade, Dana H. in fourth-grade, Anastasiia K. in fifth-grade, and Daniil R. in second-grade; (from Woodside K-8) Amelia P. in sixth-grade; (from Kingswood K-8) Lea P. in fifth- grade; (from Cambridge Heights) Kate N. in fourth-grade, Harper B. in fifth- grade, Zavanna B. in first-grade, and Valeriia P. in first-grade; and (from Carriage Drive Elementary) the grand prize winner Juannahlyn F. in fifth-grade.

Girl Scout Troop 559 led the flag salute at the Jan. 22 Citrus Heights City Council meeting. Photo courtesy of the City of Citrus Heights

During the meeting’s Public Comment, Citrus Heights resident David Shelton commended the Citrus Heights Police Department for its problem-oriented policing and the positive actions it is taking in the community.

Melissa Hayden expressed concern about the effectiveness of the 311 Program for reporting issues to Animal Services.

David Warren said he noticed rust marks on some fire hydrants in his neighborhood, which could indicate a water leak. He asked the city to examine the water system infrastructure to ensure everything is in working order. He pointed out the fires in Southern California and said that devastating fires can happen in suburban areas and the city needs to ensure they are prepared.

During the meeting’s Council Comments, Councilmember Schaefer asked City Manager Ashley Feeney to ensure that the appropriate departments or agencies review the hydrant issue. 

During City Manager Items, Feeney provided an update about a dilapidated property located at 7500 Cherry Glen, which has been an ongoing “code enforcement challenge.” He reported that the structure is now in the process of demolition, paid for by the property owner. Feeney said he hopes the site can become “a future contributor to the community versus something that detracts from the beauty of the city.”

Feeney also shared that Phase 2 of the Auburn Boulevard Project is underway, with the joint trench work expected to be completed by the end of February. In March, the utility companies will install facilities within the trench, which could take up to six months to complete. Then the overhead lines and poles will be removed. Between fall 2025 and fall 2026, roadway improvements will be implemented, including new traffic signals, installation of a gateway monument arch and full road resurfacing.

City Council entered a closed session for two items: a conference with legal counsel about anticipated litigation and a public employee annual performance evaluation. There were no reportable actions from the closed session.

The next Citrus Heights City Council meeting is scheduled for Feb. 12.