The Soledad City Council meeting on November 6, 2024, highlighted the upcoming 38th Annual Christmas Parade, set for December, with organizers expressing gratitude for the city's support. The committee representative emphasized the importance of the event as a community staple, noting improvements to the parade route and the involvement of local officials, including the police chief, to ensure a smooth operation.
Council members acknowledged the significance of the parade, clarifying that their support is not influenced by the recent election of committee member Eva Banuelos to the council. Mayor and city officials reiterated that the Christmas Parade has been a long-standing tradition, vital for community engagement, especially given the limited holiday festivities in Soledad.
In addition to the parade, the council discussed a new partnership with Hartnell College for the SOAR Ambassador Pilot Program, aimed at engaging local youth. The program will integrate with the existing youth commission, allowing selected youth to work on community projects while receiving hourly compensation rather than a fixed stipend, ensuring fairness across participating cities.
The meeting concluded with a commitment to further support community events and initiatives, reinforcing the council's dedication to fostering local traditions and youth involvement.