SCVNews.com | Opinion/Commentary: Ken Striplin | Happy Birthday, Santa Clarita

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January 8

1869 - Sanford Lyon, Henry Wiley and William Jenkins begin drilling the first oil well in Pico Canyon [story]

Ken Striplin | Happy Birthday, Santa Clarita

By Ken Striplin | Thursday, Dec 5, 2024

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Ken Striplin As we mark 37 years of cityhood, it’s time to look back on the journey we’ve taken to become the incredible city we are all proud to call home.

On Dec. 15, 1987, the communities of Newhall, Saugus, Valencia and Canyon Country joined together to form the city of Santa Clarita. At the time of incorporation, our city spanned 39-square-miles and now has now grown to over 70- square-miles and is the third largest city in Los Angeles County. This growth speaks to our collective commitment to create a thriving, innovative city that retains a close-knit, family-friendly atmosphere.

This progress wasn’t by mistake. Santa Clarita has been shaped by strong leaders, countless conversations, shared hopes and steady work toward making our community even better. For the last four years, the Santa Clarita 2025 Strategic Plan has served as our roadmap. Now, as we near the plan’s conclusion, we can see the real impact of our efforts. Facilities like the Canyon Country Community Center, Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station, the new Valencia Community Center and projects like the Central Park buildout, with the upcoming River of Lights, represent more than just construction, they signify spaces designed to bring people together, encourage recreation and provide a sense of belonging.

As we go into 2025, there are many exciting projects to look forward to. The Valencia Community Center features Santa Clarita’s first indoor pool, a space for residents to enjoy year-round.

David March Park’s eight-acre expansion is underway and will offer new picnic areas, a new baseball field and an exercise staircase. The Rink Sports Pavilion has also begun construction, making the George A. Caravalho Sports Complex a hub for all of your recreational needs.

I am proud of all our city has accomplished in its 37 years – and I look forward to what the future holds. To stay up to date with the city’s latest projects, visit SantaClarita.gov/News.

Ken Striplin is the City Manager for the City of Santa Clarita and can be reached at kstriplin@santaclarita.gov.

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Ken Striplin | New Year, New Community Center!

Monday, Jan 6, 2025

Located at Valencia Summit Park in the former YMCA building, the 12,000-square-foot Valencia Community Center is officially open for residents to visit.

Bill Miranda | Happy New Year, Santa Clarita!

Thursday, Jan 2, 2025

As we jump into the new year, the city of Santa Clarita has so much to be thankful for. The city’s 37 years of growth has brought the community top-notch events, a high quality of life and many amazing amenities.

Pilar Schiavo: Celebrating Progress, Community, a Bright Year Ahead

Wednesday, Jan 1, 2025

As we close out another year, let's take some time to celebrate and reflect on the progress we've made. It is this work we have done together that makes it such an honor to continue serving as your Assemblymember for another two years.

Ken Striplin: Happy New Year

Wednesday, Jan 1, 2025

The new year is a time to reset, while also setting goals for the next 12 months. Thanks to the leadership of our City Council, strategic planning has always been a key part of our City’s success.

Tomás J. Aragón, M.D. | California Department of Public Health

Tuesday, Dec 31, 2024

By sustaining its commitment to support healthy individuals and families in healthful communities, the California Department of Public Health recognizes the need to transform as public health advances and society evolves.

Gabriella Skollar | Gibbon Conservation Center

Tuesday, Dec 31, 2024

As we approach the end of 2024, we are wrapping up several big projects and planning new ones. Although we are currently tackling an issue with a faulty well, there is some good news to share as well.

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