The Citrus Heights City Council honors local volunteers with a proclamation recognizing National Volunteer Week. Photo courtesy of the City of Citrus Heights. 

CITRUS HEIGHTS, CA (MPG) - The Citrus Heights City Council issued three proclamations at its April 23 meeting to raise awareness about volunteers, building safety and fair housing. 

The council recognized April 20 to April 26 as National Volunteer Week and Councilmember Kelsey Nelson read the proclamation acknowledging the “invaluable contributions of volunteers who enhance the vibrancy and vitality of our community.” 

Local volunteers provide countless hours of service each year, helping at City Hall, the Community Center, Police Department and community events.

“The spirit of volunteerism is a cornerstone of our city’s resilience, prosperity and sense of unity,” Nelson read. 

Local volunteer Michael Lagomarsino accepted the proclamation and said there are so many active volunteers throughout the community: “All of them should stand proud today.” 

The Citrus Heights City Council recognizes May as National Building Safety Month. Photo courtesy of the City of Citrus Heights.

Marisa Brown, City of Citrus Heights communication officer, thanked the volunteers for the incredible work they do in the community.

“You make our city a better place, and for that, we are extremely grateful,” Brown said.

She encouraged residents to check out the Volunteer Hub on the city’s website at www.CitrusHeightsVolunteers.net to see all the many opportunities to give back locally. 

Councilmember Tim Schaefer said that the volunteer engagement level in Citrus Heights creates a true sense of connection within the city. 

“There’s so much out there. There’s a lot to do,” said local volunteer Elise Spleiss, encouraging others to become involved.

Vice-Mayor MariJane Lopez-Taff thanked the volunteers for investing their time in the community.

“Citrus Heights is better for it, because of your work here,” said Lopez-Taff.

Councilmember Porsche Middleton said, “Thank you for being the beacon of light and good and kindness in our city.” 

The council recognized May as National Building Safety Month and Councilmember Schaefer read the proclamation, stating that the city’s growth and strength depends on the safety of the homes, buildings and infrastructure. That safety is achieved through the efforts of building safety and fire prevention officials, architects, engineers, builders, tradespeople, design professionals, laborers, plumbers and others in the construction industry. 

Schaefer pointed to the critical role of building codes and those who enforce them, ensuring that buildings can keep citizens safe during fires, floods, storms and earthquakes.

Shara Hudock, development services technician with the Building Department, introduced her daughter, Sienna, who is representing the department as junior building safety inspector. 

Chief Building Official Joseph Cuffe thanked the council for recognizing the importance of building safety. Cuffe encouraged residents to visit the city’s website for information about public events and activities in May to celebrate Building Safety Month. 

The council recognized April as Fair Housing Month, in recognition of the 57th anniversary of the enactment of the federal Fair Housing Act of 1968, which prohibits discrimination in the sale, rental or financing of housing. 

Citrus Heights City Council recognizes April as Fair Housing Month. Photo courtesy of the City of Citrus Heights.

“As we observe Fair Housing Month, we reflect on the importance of affirming civil rights and standing against bigotry and discrimination within our communities, our state and our nation,” read Councilmember Middleton. “Citrus Heights affirms that all individuals have the right to choose where they live, free from discrimination, and supports state and federal protections that ensure dignity, safety and equal opportunity in housing.”

The city supports ongoing efforts to ensure fair housing and recognized the important work of Project Sentinel, which provides education to homeowners, landlords, property managers, tenants and homebuyers about their rights and responsibilities. Project Sentinel also investigates complaints of housing discrimination throughout the Sacramento region.

Middleton said that Citrus Heights is dedicated to “furthering fair housing through its policies and practices while working to identify and eliminate barriers to housing choice.” She said the proclamation confirms the city’s “commitment to ensuring equal access to housing for every member of our community.” 

Project Sentinel Fair Housing coordinator Akilah Williams accepted the proclamation and said, “Right now, here in our nation, we are facing threats to our fair housing rights. And so, it is very important that here in Sacramento County but especially here in Citrus Heights, that we report the things that we see that are not right.”

Williams said it is critical that residents are aware of their rights to fair housing and she thanked the council for its ongoing support. 

The next regular Citrus Heights City Council meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. May 14 at City Hall, 6360 Fountain Square Drive.