August 2, 2022 — Summer is here and Clayton’s Maintenance Department and contractors have been diligently working to trim trees in medians and planter strips in preparation for the dry months ahead. Several residents have reached out in appreciation of their efforts as staff has caught up with much of the spring weed growth which was a topic of prior conversations. In addition to the above, our Engineering staff have been overseeing multiple pavement improvement projects and ensuring our contractors meet our city’s needs. Conversations will be held in 2023 on future paving/road condition projects as we assess our funds and road priorities.

This summer has been fun with Clayton returning to a close-knit community vibe with its first annual Pride Parade on June 25th, followed by our treasured 4th of July parade, and then the CBCA’s BBQ Cook-Off competition on July 9th & 10th.

Large crowd turned out for this year’s Clayton BBQ Cook-off on July 9 and 10. Big Poppa Smokers is presented with the First Place Backyard BBQ’ers check of $1,600. Below a few of the competitors for the National KCS competition and their equipment. Photos CBCA Facebook.

Back stronger than ever are Clayton’s “Concerts in the Grove” which happen every other Saturday. The final three concerts for this season take place August 13th, featuring The Houserockers, August 27th, with The Sun Kings (music by The Beatles), and finally September 10th with East Bay Mudd. Grab a picnic dinner, or dine at one of our local restaurants, and come join us from 6 PM to 8:30 PM, downtown Clayton.
Due to Covid, it has been a couple of years since we have held our annual Earth Day Celebration; “Clayton Cleans Up.” This annual volunteer effort has been a staple in our community that features multiple groups and individuals coming together to beautify our town. I will spearhead the event on Saturday, April 22, 2023, and am looking for volunteers to assist with the coordination. In addition, Drysdale Properties is considering a “Community Service Day” for Clayton on Friday, September 16, 2022, which we can all volunteer for this fall. Look for details to come.
I want to thank our small but mighty city staff. Their efforts and the hours that they put in are greatly appreciated in keeping our city functioning at a level of service that our residents enjoy. Just another reason that recent polling has found Claytonians have a 94% positive satisfaction rating for our city. Our future is indeed bright!
As always, you can reach me at, peterc@claytonca.gov, or (925) 673-7320.