CITY WATCH : FORUM SEEKS INPUT ON FUTURE OF TRANSIT.

Residents who want to be more involved in shaping the city's transit development are invited to a forum Monday on the city's long-range transit development plan. The 6:30 p.m. session will be held in the City Hall Council Chambers, 23920 Valencia Blvd.

The plan eventually will serve as the blueprint for transit development in Santa Clarita for the next 20 years. A representative from Michael Fajans & Associates, the consulting firm that is helping develop the plan, will be available to answer any questions or concerns.

``Residents are encouraged to become part of the decision making process,'' said Ron Kilcoyne, the city's transportation manager. ``The Transit Development Plan is an important tool which city staff (members) can use to meet current and future transit needs of the Santa Clarita residents.''

Copies of the plan in its draft version are available at the city's Public Works Office, 25663 Avenue Stanford, in the Valencia Industrial Center.

Meeting to address volunteer center

Representatives from about 35 nonprofit organizations will join the Santa Clarita Valley Chamber of Commerce and the city Monday to discuss the feasibility of opening a community volunteer center.

The meeting is scheduled for 4 p.m. in the Orchard Room in City Hall.

The idea is to bring together the talents of the community's volunteers for collaborative efforts.

``A volunteer center mobilizes people and resources to deliver creative solutions to community problems'' said Priscilla Nielsen, the city's volunteer coordinator. ``This is a major grass-roots movement that is problem-solving based.''

Information is available by calling Nielsen at 286-4165.

Winter inevitable, harm to home not

The city's Building and Safety staff offers some tips for homeowners seeking to avoid damage caused by winter weather.

Experts suggest residents prepare the outsides of their homes by clearing gutters and outside drains of debris; protecting vegetation and plants with plastic sheets to shield them from wind and flooding, and repairing other problems outside the home.

``Residents may discover problems in their homes during the winter season, such as a blocked chimney or a heater that isn't working,'' said Ruben Barerra, a city building official. ``Residents can better prepare themselves by taking care of these simple home repairs and have a safer and happier winter.''

Residents who are reroofing their homes will need city permits before beginning the work. Also anyone changing a heater must have it inspected by the city. Information is available by calling the Building and Safety Division at 255-4372.

Teens to party safe on New Year's Eve

A night of video games, bumper cars and roller skating will be offered New Year's Eve to seventh- and eighth-graders.

The city will sponsor its Teen New Year's Eve Party from 9 p.m. Dec. 31 to 1 a.m. at Mountasia, 21516 Golden Triangle Road.

Participants can enjoy a safe New Year's celebration - youths will not be allowed to leave unless a parent or guardian signs them out.

``This event provides teens with a safe way to celebrate the New Year,'' said recreation program coordinator Troy Brown. ``The evening will offer plenty of great activities so that everyone can have fun.''

There are three packages available for the event: $8 for unlimited video games, $14 for unlimited outside attractions and $20 for unlimited use of both. All packages include roller skating.

The deadline to register is noon Dec. 27. About 500 youths are expected to participate. Information is available by calling Brown at 255-4910.

City plans to hold birthday breakfast

The city will celebrate its 9th birthday Saturday beginning with a 7 a.m. Flapjack Forum - a pancake breakfast that allows residents informal time to chat with city officials.

Breakfast will be served through 9 a.m. in the City Hall parking lot. Tickets are $5 per family or $2 for adults, $1 for children.

In addition, the city will hold its traditional 5K Birthday Run-Walk using local bike trails that lead back to City Hall. About 500 residents are expected to take part. Registration is $15. Information is available by calling the city parks department at 255-4910.