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Simi Valley council issues May proclamations honoring small businesses, older adults, water safety, prayer and fallen officers
Summary
The Simi Valley City Council issued proclamations recognizing Small Business Week, Older Americans Month, Water Safety Month, the National Day of Prayer and Peace Officers Memorial Day and heard brief remarks from local organization leaders and department representatives.
The Simi Valley City Council on Monday presented a series of ceremonial proclamations recognizing local partners and observances in May 2026.
Kathy Van Eaton, CEO of the Simi Valley Chamber of Commerce, accepted a proclamation declaring May 3–9 Small Business Week and highlighted the city’s business base; city staff said Simi Valley is home to more than 5,500 registered businesses. “Small businesses are the backbone of our local economy,” Van Eaton said.
Janice Del Santo, chair of the Simi Valley Council on Aging, accepted a proclamation designating May as Older Americans Month and noted the city has over 20,000 residents age 65 and older. She urged residents to visit the senior center to learn about services and volunteer opportunities.
The council proclaimed May Water Safety Month and recognized the Rancho Simi Recreation and Park District’s aquatics work. Park board chair Brian Dennert and aquatics coordinator Erin Pierrick emphasized swim lessons and community partnerships, noting about 2,000 lessons were offered last summer and that formal lessons can substantially reduce drowning risk.
Pastor Cliff Clifton Clark accepted the Day of Prayer proclamation and invited residents to observe a local prayer event on May 7. The council also recognized Peace Officers Memorial Day on May 15; Sergeant Rick Morton accepted that proclamation on behalf of the Simi Valley Police Department and the chief recited a remembrance for Officer Michael Clark, who died in 1995.
These proclamations are symbolic recognitions that the council said reflect the city’s partnerships with local nonprofits, public safety and business groups. No formal policy actions were taken as part of the presentations.
