Q: With the changes to the health restrictions - more of our Santa Clarita businesses are able to reopen at greater capacity - how can residents support these shops and restaurants that have been struggling for the past year?
This last year has been unbelievably tough on our business community. Now there is a light at the end of the tunnel as people are getting vaccinated and the case rate is dropping. That means it is time to get back out and visit your favorite local restaurant or shop at your favorite local store. If the pandemic has taught us anything, it is to be adaptive. No matter your comfort level, there's an option for you. Grab lunch inside with limited capacity, dine al fresco while enjoying Santa Clarita's great weather, or grab a meal to go to enjoy in the safety and comfort of your own home. After all, shopping and eating local benefits our city - the practice creates and maintains local jobs, improves our economy, allows for access to unique, local businesses and supports local employees and business owners. To learn more, please go to visitsantaclarita.com.

Q: We've been hearing about an increase in auto thefts, as well as catalytic converter thefts. How can we keep our cars safe and avoid becoming a victim?
That has been an issue which our Sheriff's Station is proactively addressing. In fact, back in March the Crime Impact Team led a search warrant operation which resulted in 19 individuals arrested and 250 catalytic converters recovered, valued at an estimated total of $750,000, as well as one "ghost" handgun and approximately $100,000 seized. While we applaud their good work, we also remind all residents that they have the key to keep their vehicle safe. The new "Guard That Auto" campaign plays off of the popular Grand Theft Auto video game, but reminds people how to protect themselves from becoming a victim of auto theft.
Always know where your keys are - never leave them in plain sight.
Park in well-lit areas with surveillance cameras.
If you can, park in your garage or driveway and not on the street.
Always report suspicious activity - if you see something, say something!
To report suspicious activity, please contact the Santa Clarita Sheriff's Station at 255-1121.
Anonymous tips can also be submitted through "LA Crime Stoppers" at
1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or on lacrimestoppers.org.


Q: Santa Clarita Transit is now offering an easy and efficient way to get around town and visit our local shops and restaurants. How does 'GO! Santa Clarita' work?
Many people are familiar with rideshare services like Uber or LYFT, and now that freedom and flexibility is available from Santa Clarita Transit. GO! Santa Clarita works much like other ride-share services, but with the added benefit of fixed rates and professional drivers. Customers can use the TripShot smartphone app to request a ride that will pick up and drop off passengers within the service boundaries. These areas include parts of Fair Oaks, Canyon Country and - new this year - Newhall. Following a trip request, the app will provide passengers with an estimated pick-up time, track their bus in real time and be alerted when their ride is about to arrive. For more information, please visit
santaclaritatransit.com.