By Councilwoman Marsha McLean
Happy Thanksgiving, Santa Clarita! This is the time of year when we pause to reflect on the many blessings in our lives — from the people we love, to the moments that bring us joy to the incredible community we are so fortunate to call home. When I look back on this past year, so many of the things I am grateful for are intertwined with the privilege of serving you and helping shape the bright future of our City.
One milestone that fills me with great pride is the official designation of La Puerta as a California Point of Historical Interest. Located in beautiful Elsmere Canyon, La Puerta served as a natural gateway through the San Gabriel Mountains, evolving from ancient Native American trails to early wagon routes and eventually to the modern highways we know today. This designation not only honors the generations who traveled these paths before us, but also preserves the cultural, religious and military history that defines our region. Ensuring that sites like La Puerta are protected means that future generations will forever have a tangible connection to the roots of Santa Clarita’s historic and cultural heritage.
I am also deeply thankful for the opportunity to continue advocating for enhanced transportation and mobilitythroughout our region being a Director on SCAG’s (Southern California Association of Governments) Transportation Policy Committee and Regional Council. This year, I was honored to be selected asChair of the North Los Angeles County Transportation Coalition, while continuing to serve as Chair of the Transportation Committee of the San Fernando Valley Council of Governments. These roles allow me to work collaboratively with regional partners to improve transit options, reduce congestion and ensure that our residents can move safely and efficiently throughout the area.
Additionally, I am proud to serve as Vice Chair of the Santa Clarita Community Taskforce on Homelessness, where we are committed to connecting individuals and families to critical resources and pathways toward stability. Since this Taskforce was formed in 2018, we have made great strides in making a true and lasting impact on homelessness in our community. This can be seen most in the two new transitional shelter facilities in Santa Clarita. This year, Bridge to Home marked one year of service in their new 18,000-square-foot facility which provides transitional shelter for nearly 100 people experiencing homelessness but also provides meals, resources and case managers to the most vulnerable members of our community.
Last year, Family Promise also celebrated the grand opening of their new facility. Located on Newhall Avenue it features a 2,700-square-foot Resource Center in addition to four interim housing units and an emergency overnight unit. Local families experiencing homelessness now have access to dedicated case management from Family Promise staff, helping them save for deposits and rent, guiding them towards financial independence and eventual homeownership.
As we give thanks this season, I encourage everyone — if you are able — to give back to the many local nonprofits that make a difference in the lives of others. We have local organizations supporting families facing illness or hardship that can use our help. We have organizations rescuing animals that can use our help. There is no shortage of opportunities to lend a helping hand. You can learn more about local charities and volunteer opportunities by visiting SantaClarita.gov/CommunityLinks.
As we gather this Thanksgiving, I am filled with gratitude for the teamwork, compassion and commitment to honoring our past that defines Santa Clarita. It is an honor to serve a community that continually strives to make life better for one another. Wishing you all a safe and joyful Thanksgiving!
Councilwoman Marsha McLean is a member of the Santa Clarita City Council and can be reached at mmclean@santaclarita.gov.
