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Councilmember Jose Preciado District 2 Newsletter
JANUARY 2026 ISSUE 1 | | Happy New Year District 2! | | | Dear Robert,
I want to wish you and yours a healthy and happy 2026!
For the first newsletter of 2026, I would like to share my new year priorities as your District 2 representative. This list is conceptual and intended to initiate or encourage the examination of the City's needs and desires. As such, I have framed them as New Year's Resolutions to explore.
My 2026 New Year's resolutions for the City of Chula Vista and District 2:
- Reopen our District 2 parks. In 2025, Chula Vista broke ground on a large-scale renovation at Eucalyptus Park. The upgrades and additions will benefit our community in new ways, including new fitness equipment, an ADA ramp, and an interactive water feature. It is anticipated to open in July of this year. Hilltop Park is also undergoing improvements that will reduce erosion, protect waterways, and bring new trees. There is no scheduled open date as of yet.
- Work with my council colleagues to adopt a Chula Vista Strategic Plan with a special focus on Economic Development and Communications. Strategic Plans guide the direction the City will take towards specific areas of growth and jurisdictional needs.
- Work with stakeholders to continue to support development on the Chula Vista Bayfront. In 2025, the Gaylord Pacific Hotel opened its doors and Chula Vista saw a new beginning for tourism, engagement, and opportunity. As a Coastal Commissioner, I find it important to guide and advocate for collaborative solutions for our coastal resources.
- Work with stakeholders to determine if we are ready to update the Urban Core Specific Plan. The last Specific Plan was published in 2007, following the 2005 General Plan. Its goal was to create pedestrian-friendly environments, gathering places, and public amenities through community development in our City's areas in need of redevelopment.
- Continue efforts to support District 2 Seniors. In 2025, I began the New Friends of Norman Park Senior Center—a series of monthly meetings to engage with our residents ages 50+. Here, we discussed the needs of our senior community and brought local organizations and City officials to present important resources. These meetings will continue on the first Monday of each month at the Norman Park Senior Center.
- Initiate Forward Chula Vista, an opportunity to engage 18–39-year-old Chula Vistans. These meetings will bring together young professionals, students, and residents of Chula Vista. We will discuss their futures in our City, including where they plan to live, plan to work, and hope to start their families. They are the future and their input is required to keep moving forward.
Thank you for your consideration of these items. I look forward to engaging with you all this year, whether at City Council meetings, local events, or through your correspondence with my Office. If you missed any of our emails in 2025, find them here. | | | Holiday Tree Recycling
Recycle your holiday tree for free!
Remove all decorations, lights, and stands. Then, place the tree inside your green cart on collection day.
Do NOT leave it next to the cart. Remember: artificial trees go in the TRASH.
For additional information, please contact the Environmental Service hotline at 619-691-5122 or email [email protected]. | | | Cooking Oil Disposal
Did you deep-fry a turkey or other food for the holidays, and still don’t know what to do with the leftover cooking oil? You are in luck!
The City of Chula Vista’s Household Hazardous Waste Facility takes your used cooking oil at no cost and keeps it out of the landfill. You can bring up to 15 gallons of used cooking oil per visit. They are open Wednesdays & Saturdays from 9:00AM to 1:00PM at 1800 Maxwell Road.
Learn more. | | | How to Dispose of Dinner Scraps
Love your leftovers, but hate the waste? Let's give a second life to our dinner scraps! Remember to fill your kitchen caddy with them and turn food waste into garden gold. Together, we can make every celebration sustainable.
Don't have a kitchen caddy? Pick one up for FREE at the Office of Sustainability at Chula Vista City Hall, Building C, Mon-Thurs 8:00AM-4:00PM, Fri 8:00AM-12:00PM.
| | | Share Your Input Regarding the City Website
We’re redesigning the City of Chula Vista website—and we want your input! Help us create a more modern, accessible, and easy-to-use website for our community.
Take a quick, anonymous survey and share what matters most to you at www.cvcommunityvoices.com/cvwebsite. | | | South County Higher Education Task Force
Help shape the future of higher education in South County!
Apply to join the South County Higher Education Task Force, a collaborative body that will bring together the City of Chula Vista, University of California, California State University, California Community Colleges, Sweetwater Union High School District, and other stakeholders to explore and advise on the creation of a four-year public university in Chula Vista.
Applicants are required to reside, work or have a vested interest in the South San Diego County region. Applications from individuals representing diverse perspectives, including business and innovation leaders, higher education staff or faculty, students, and community advocates, are welcomed.
Apply by January 9th, 2026! | | | Winter 2026 Guide to Recreation
After a 15-year hiatus, the Parks & Rec Department has brought back Guide to Recreation, a 73-page full-color document highlighting all classes and programs at Chula Vista recreational facilities for Winter 2026.
Find the next class for both you and the family! Click to read. | | Upcoming Events in District 2 | | | Community Clean-up
South Bay Sustainable Communities is hosting a community clean-up on Saturday, January 3rd, 8:30AM at the corner of C St and N Glover. Earn your community service or bring the family out for a fun and helpful activity!
RSVP at 619-738-4188. | | | New Friends of Norman Park Meeting
Start the new year with the New Friends of Norman Park Senior Center! We will be celebrating 2026 with a traditional Rosca de Reyes on Monday, January 6th, at 6:00PM, at Norman Park Senior Center.
These meetings are an opportunity for our senior community to engage with their Councilmember, make new connections, and learn about helpful resources.
RSVP by email at [email protected]. | | | Swing State @ OnStage Playhouse
Support the performing arts and check out OnStage Playhouse's latest production, Swing State, a play by Rebecca Gilman. Directed by James P. Darvas, the show runs from January 9th to February 1st at 291 Third Ave.
Buy your tickets!
Recently widowed, Peg tends to the 40 acres of native prairie that rises behind her rural Wisconsin home. Her solitary days are interrupted only by visits from Ryan, a family friend with a checkered past. When her late husband’s footlocker is ransacked in her barn, she places a call to the local authorities—unwittingly setting off a series of events that will forever change their lives. As Peg and Ryan fight to regain each others trust, they learn how to help one another in a new and meaningful way and how to forge a sense of hope in a time when it feels like everyone’s way of life is in danger of disappearing. | | | Free Compost Giveaway
Attention gardeners and composters: get your free compost on Saturday, January 10th from 8:00AM-12:00PM at the Otay Landfill, 1700 Maxwell Rd. Bring your own shovels, containers, and tarps! This event is for Chula Vista residents only.
| | | Foundations of Portraiture
Join Casa Casillas artist-in-residence Melicha for a special Foundations of Portraiture class on Saturday, January 10th at 11:00AM inside Casa Casillas, 50 4th Ave.
Explore the fundamentals of portraits by focusing your core skills and strengthening your work. This class is deisgned for teens and adults. Registration is required. | | | Weekly Flu Vaccine Clinic
Get your flu shot in Chula Vista!
The Chula Vista Fire Department is offering FREE weekly flu vaccine clinics from now to March 24th, 2026 at the Civic Center Library.
Tuesdays, 10:00AM–2:00PM, 365 F Street, Chula Vista
- Ages 6 months & older
- For community members who are uninsured or under-insured
- Bring an ID with full name and date of birth
Click to schedule your appointment or scan the QR code.
| | | E-Bike Ordinance Enforcement Begins
Enforcement for the new E-Bike Ordinance in Chula Vista has started.
IMPORTANT: - Riders must be 12+ to operate Class 1 or 2 e-bikes.
- No passengers unless the rider is 18+
- Class 1 & 2 e-bikes: no riding on sidewalks in business districts & signed areas
- Class 3 e-bikes: no riding on all sidewalks citywide
Helmets required for: - All Class 3 riders
- Anyone under 18 on Class 1 or 2 e-bikes
- These updates build on California State Law to keep our streets and sidewalks safer for everyone.
Learn more: www.chulavistaca.gov/ebikes | | | Congregational Place Applications
Chula Vista's newest affordable senior housing is now accepting applications! Located at 305 E Street, Congregational Place will feature 55 one-bedroom apartments for individuals age 55 and above. The first floor will house San Ysidro Health, which will operate PACE. Rental fees range from $930-$1,860.
Download an application and mail it today! Or, input your information to have an application sent to you. Questions? Contact Congregational Place at 562-257-5100.
| | | Chula Vista Museum and History Center
**FREE TO THE PUBLIC**
Open Fridays from 1:00 to 4:30PM at 261 Garrett Ave, across from the Civic Center Library.
For more information, call 619-316-2642.
| | | Casa Casillas
**FREE TO THE PUBLIC**
Stop by and visit Casa Casillas, Chula Vista’s newest artist space!
50 4th Ave, Chula Vista, CA 91910 (619) 585-5782 Hours: Wednesday–Thursday | 12:00PM–7:00PM. Friday–Saturday | 10:00AM–5:00PM Sunday | 1:00PM–5:00PM Monday–Tuesday | Closed
Explore local art, creativity, and community!
Follow on Facebook and Instagram for the latest art workshops. | | | FREE Bayfront Shuttle
Hop on the free Bayfront Shuttle! Chula Vista’s new Bayfront Shuttle is now running daily from 8:00AM to 6:00PM! This zero-emissions, all-electric shuttle makes it easier than ever to explore our scenic waterfront and more—from the Living Coast Discovery Center to Downtown Chula Vista and the newly opened Gaylord Pacific Resort.
Blue Line: Connects the Bayfront to E Street & H Street Transit Centers Green Line: Connects the Bayfront to nearby key destinations
Visit chulavistaca.gov/bayfrontshuttle for more information.
| | | Shallow Rental Subsidy Program for Older Adults (55+)
The City has launched a Pilot Rental Subsidy Program to support older adult (55+) renters. This pilot initiative is part of the City’s ongoing efforts to expand housing stability, reduce displacement, and support aging in place for some of the community’s most vulnerable residents.
While the program has reached full capacity, we encourage you to add your name to the waitlist. This ensures you can be contacted if openings become available. Click to learn more. | | | From SDG&E: Energy-Saving Tip
Energy-saving tip: Use natural light. Take advantage of the sun’s natural heat by opening curtains and blinds during the day. This can help warm up your home without using extra energy.
Find more energy-saving tips at sdge.com/SimpleSteps.
| | | Free Legal Research Assistance
Did you know you can receive free legal research assistance from a San Diego Law Librarian here in Chula Vista? Visit the Civic Center Library every 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month from 10AM-3PM to find resources for legal aid.
*Law librarians cannot give you legal advice, but they can guide you to resources and show you how to use them*
| | | Chula Vista Reuse Center
Supply your household and reduce waste! The Chula Vista Reuse Center at 1800 Maxwell Rd offers a range of products, from full cans of paint to automotive fluids, household cleaners, and even propane canisters! **All products offered are full and unopened.**
Limits apply: Up to 15 gallons of paint and 5 household items per visit. One visit per month, first-come, first-served, while supplies last.
Questions? Contact 619-691-5122 or [email protected].
| | | Sweetwater Authority: Water Affordability Program
The Sweetwater Authority’s Water Affordability Program allows qualifying Sweetwater Authority customers to be eligible for low-income bill assistance on the water bill at their primary residence. Customers applying for assistance must be listed as the primary account holder. See eligibility requirements. | | | The Office of Sustainability: What Will Be Accepted in Your Green Food and Yard Waste Container?
Food Scraps and Food Waste: - Coffee grounds, eggs/shells, fruit and vegetable scraps
- Seafood, meat, and bones
- Breads, cereals, tortilla, rice, and beans
- Dairy products, cheese
Food-Soiled Paper Products: - Coffee filters, tea bags
- Food-soiled paper plates, paper towels, and napkins
- Greasy pizza boxes (recycle the clean portion)
- Paper/cardboard takeout containers
Yard Waste: - Grass, tree, and brush clippings
- Leaves
- Flowers & houseplants (without pot and dirt, place these in the trash)
Learn more here! | | | Weekly Farmers' Market - Now Accepting EBT
Shoppers can now use their CalFresh public benefits food assistance (EBT card) at the Downtown Chula Vista Farmers' Market every Sunday from 10AM to 2PM. Just visit the Welcome Booth at the east end of the market to swipe and shop.
Rain or shine, the market is open. Stock up on fresh ingredients, grab a snack, or buy a bouquet of flowers on Park Way between Third and Fourth Ave. See here for updates. | | | Living Coast & Museums for All
The Living Coast Discovery Center is now a member of Museums for All! Museums for All lets SNAP recipients enjoy free or discounted entry to over 1,400 U.S. museums with their EBT card.
Through this program, Living Coast admission tickets are just $3 per person for up to 4 people per EBT card. Learn more. | | | Support the California Coast
Councilmember Preciado is on the California Coastal Commission, representing the San Diego coast! One way to support the protection of the California coast and ocean is to purchase a Whale Tail Plate. The special plate funds non-profit groups doing important education and conservation work, provides free resources for educators, and empowers volunteers to take action to protect the coast. Order yours today! | | | Free Motor Oil Disposal
Chula Vista residents, who have single-family home trash and recycling service have the following options to recycle used motor oil and filters: - Bring used motor oil and filters to a Certified Used Oil Collection Center. Used Oil Collection Centers also provide FREE drain pans. Visit www.wastefreesd.org or call 1-800-237-2583 for the nearest location. *Used Oil Collection Centers will not accept used oil that has been contaminated with water, antifreeze, gasoline, etc.
- Arrange for curbside collection by calling Republic Services at (619) 421-9400. Call at least 24 hours prior to your regular collection day.
- Bring your used oil and filters to the Household Hazardous Waste Collection Facility for FREE.
- This facility will accept used oil that has been contaminated with water, antifreeze, gasoline, etc.
| | | Monthly Car Seat Safety Checks
The Chula Vista Fire Department has announced dates for the 2025 free car seat installation checks at the Otay Ranch Town Center and the Chula Vista Shopping Center. Both events will take place in front of the Macy’s entrances. The checks are offered to parents, grandparents, or child caregivers to teach proper car seat installation and keep your child safe!
See all upcoming dates. | | | Chula Vista Disaster Preparedness
From the Chula Vista Disaster Council:
Click here to see how the City of Chula Vista is prepared for various natural disasters. | | | Meals on Wheels
Meals on Wheels provides nutritious meals to thousands of seniors, disabled veterans, and caretakers. Deliveries are made daily by volunteers.
Want more information on how to get meals delivered to you or someone you know? Call the South County Service Center at 619-420-2782 or visit them on the 2nd floor of the Norman Park Senior Center at 270 F St, Suite 22, Chula Vista, CA 91910. | | | FREE Community Shuttle
Attention District 2! The City of Chula Vista has partnered with Circuit to provide residents aged 55+ with free rides within the limits of the Northwest (see map). Residents under 55 can ride for a fare of $2 per rider. Catch a ride to a doctor's appointment, the grocery store, to see a movie, and more!
Rides are ADA-accessible and door-to-door while using all-electric vehicles. As of February 2024, over 33,000 rides were given, with an average wait time of around 9 minutes.
To request a ride, download the Ride Circuit app or call 619-650-6386 and press option 7. Shuttle service is available Monday through Friday from 7:00AM to 7:00PM. | | | Submit a Service Request Today!
Did you know the City of Chula Vista has an official app for reporting non-emergency issues, such as graffiti, potholes, abandoned vehicles, and more? With ACT Chula Vista, you can upload photos, see nearby issues, and check on the status of your report.
Use ACT Chula Vista now!
| | | File an Online Police Report
The Chula Vista Police Department has an online reporting tool for non-emergencies. Before reporting, make sure the incident meets ALL requirements below:
- This is not an emergency.
- This incident occurred within Chula Vista City limits.
- There are no known suspects.
- This did not occur on a state freeway.
- The incident falls under one of the following categories:
- Harassing phone calls
- Hit and runs
- Identity theft
- Lost property
- Theft of property
- Theft from a vehicle
- Vandalism
- Vehicle tampering
| | | | Do You Know You Live in District 2?
Chula Vista's District 2 sits North of L Street and West of Paseo del Rey.
Contact our office - General Inquiries: [email protected] Senior Council Aide: Diana Quintero - [email protected] | | | | |
