MariJane Lopez-Taff

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. 

Since before the City's incorporation in 1997, Neighborhood Areas have helped connect residents, strengthen community pride, and create opportunities for neighbors to work together to improve the places they call home. Today, Citrus Heights is divided into 11 Neighborhood Areas represented by eight neighborhood organizations. Unlike a homeowners' association, there are no dues to pay and no requirement to own a home.  Anyone who lives, works, or owns property in Citrus Heights can get involved. 

Neighborhood Area meetings provide an opportunity for residents to connect with one another, discuss local priorities, collaborate on shared goals, learn about City projects and programs, and engage directly with City staff. Representatives from the Citrus Heights Police Department's Problem Oriented Policing (POP) Team also regularly attend meetings to share updates, answer questions, and collaborate with residents on neighborhood concerns. These partnerships help strengthen communication, build trust, and ensure residents have a voice in shaping their community. 

The impact of these groups can be seen throughout Citrus Heights through movie nights in the park, beautification projects, service activities, clean-up efforts, and other neighborhood-led initiatives that bring people together and strengthen community pride.  Just as importantly, these efforts help build relationships that make neighborhoods stronger and more resilient. Neighborhood involvement also plays an important role in public safety. Connected neighbors look out for one another, share information, and help identify concerns before they become larger problems. Some of the most effective crime prevention tools are the relationships between neighbors who know and care about one another. 

One of the best examples of neighborhood engagement in action is National Night Out, taking place this year on Tuesday, Aug. 4. Organized by neighborhood volunteers across the city, these gatherings bring residents together with law enforcement, firefighters, and first responders in a fun and informal setting. National Night Out helps strengthen relationships, build trust, and reinforce the shared responsibility we all have in keeping our neighborhoods safe and welcoming.

As event details are finalized, I encourage residents to follow the City of Citrus Heights on social media and subscribe to the City's e-newsletter to stay informed about National Night Out celebrations happening throughout the community and find an event near you. 

If you are not sure which Neighborhood Area you belong to, visit the Neighborhood Areas map on the City's website to find your neighborhood organization, learn about upcoming meetings and events, and discover opportunities to get involved. 

Thank you to the neighborhood leaders, volunteers, public safety professionals, City staff, and residents who continue to strengthen Citrus Heights one relationship at a time. Together, we are building a community where service starts with being a good neighbor and where safe neighborhoods begin with connected neighbors. 

Sincerely, 

MariJane Lopez-Taff
Mayor, City of Citrus Heights