Residents

  • Community Academy

     

    Thank you to those who participated in our first Community Academy!

    We are excited for the opportunity to continue this program and offer advanced courses for our graduates. 

    Please stayed tuned for more information.

    In the meantime, check out the official page for the academy where you can learn about what each session entailed and see photos!

  • Resources

     

    Links to Resources:  

  • Services

    City of Atwater Services

    The City of Atwater is a full service municipal corporation providing a variety of quality services to its citizens.

    • Recreation Programs
    • Dedicated Police
    • Fire Protection and Emergency Medical Response
    • Parks
    • Sewage
    • Sanitation – garbage, green waste, and recycle collection
    • Water
    • Street Sweeping
    • Storm Drainage Collection
    • Road Maintenance
    • Development Services
    • Housing Assistance
    • ADA Self-Evaluation
    • Trash Service Observed Holiday Schedule

    City Utilities

    The City provides water, waste water treatment, and garbage - sanitation. Electrical power is provided within the City of Atwater by either Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) or the Merced Irrigation Company (MID). Links to both utilities is provided below.

    Links

    Merced Irrigation District

    Pacific Gas & Electric

    Please see map below for trash service pick-up schedule with Mid Valley Disposal and street sweeping/leaf season schedule with the city. 

  • Things to Do

     

    Castle Air Muesem                                         

    Bloss Mansion

    Bellevue Bowl

    Razzari Ice Skating Rink

  • Projects

     

    Overlay Project - Carter Way, Mitchell Ave, Cedar Ave, and Shaffer Road.

    Downtown Pedestrian Project - Phase 3:

    The project proposes constructing new curbs/gutters, sidewalks, curb ramps, replacement residential driveway approaches, and conform paving as required. Improvements are proposed along Linden Street, Oak Avenue, Mulberry Avenue, Laurel Avenue, Kadota Avenue, Juniper Avenue, Third Street, and First Street.

    Downtown Pedestrian Project - Phase 4:

    The project proposes constructing new curbs/gutters, sidewalks, curb ramps, replacement residential driveway approaches, and conform paving as required. Improvements are proposed along Holly Avenue, Hemlock Avenue, Grove Avenue, Fir Avenue, Elm Avenue, Eucalyptus Street, Packers Street, and High Street.

     

  • FAQ: Homelessness

     

    Frequently Asked Questions: Homelessness Response

     

    What is the City's role in addressing homelessness?
    The City of Atwater works to maintain public health and safety while connecting individuals experiencing homelessness with available resources through partnerships with Merced County, law enforcement, service providers, and community organizations. Although the City plays an important role, homelessness is a regional issue that requires collaboration among many agencies.
    Why can't the City simply remove homeless individuals from public spaces?
    Federal and state laws protect the constitutional rights of all individuals, including those experiencing homelessness. The City must comply with these legal requirements before taking enforcement action or removing encampments or personal property. City actions must balance public safety with the legal rights of individuals.
    Is it illegal to be homeless?
    No. Being homeless is not a crime. However, individuals experiencing homelessness are subject to the same laws as everyone else. The City and Police Department may take enforcement action when laws or municipal codes are violated.
    What departments respond to homelessness?
    Several City departments work together, including:

    • Police Department
    • Public Works
    • Code Enforcement

    The City also coordinates with Merced County and local service providers to address homelessness through outreach and available assistance programs.

    What happens when the City receives a complaint?
    Each complaint is evaluated based on its location and circumstances. Staff determine the appropriate response, which may include:

    • Welfare checks
    • Outreach and referrals to services
    • Code enforcement
    • Cleanup of public property when legally permissible
    • Enforcement of criminal violations, when applicable

    Responses vary depending on the specific situation and applicable laws.

    Can the City force someone into a shelter?
    No. Individuals generally cannot be compelled to accept shelter or services unless authorized by law under specific circumstances.
    Does the City offer homeless services?
    The City does not directly operate homeless shelters or social service programs. Instead, the City works with Merced County and community partners that provide services such as emergency shelter, behavioral health treatment, housing assistance, employment support, and other resources.

    Links to resources:

    What should I do if someone is trespassing or committing a crime?
    If there is an emergency or a crime in progress, call 911 immediately.

    For non-emergency concerns, contact the Atwater Police Department’s non-emergency line at (209) 357-6396 so officers can assess the situation.

    What if I see someone who appears to need medical or mental health assistance?
    If the situation is an emergency, call 911. If there is no immediate danger but you are concerned about someone’s well-being, contact the Police Department, (209) 357-6396, so the appropriate response can be coordinated.
    Does the Police Department conduct outreach?
    Yes. Officers often engage with individuals experiencing homelessness, provide information about available services, and work with partner agencies when appropriate, while also addressing public safety concerns.
    Why do encampments sometimes return after they have been cleaned?
    Many individuals experiencing homelessness remain in the area due to limited housing options, available services, personal circumstances, or other challenges. While the City may conduct cleanups and enforcement activities when appropriate, long-term solutions require housing, treatment, employment assistance, and ongoing support.
    Why doesn't the City remove encampments immediately?
    The City must follow applicable laws and procedures before removing encampments or personal belongings. Depending on the circumstances, this may include providing notice, coordinating outreach efforts, and ensuring legal requirements are met.
    What happens to personal belongings during a cleanup?
    The City follows applicable legal requirements regarding the handling and storage of personal property. Property that is abandoned or poses an immediate health or safety hazard may be handled in accordance with state and local laws.
    How can residents help address homelessness?
    Community members can:

    • Report concerns through the appropriate City channels.
    • Support local nonprofit organizations and service providers.
    • Volunteer with community organizations.
    • Treat all individuals with dignity and respect.
    • Help keep public spaces clean by reporting illegal dumping and hazards.

    How do I report an encampment or other concerns?
    Residents can report concerns through the City’s designated reporting methods or by contacting the appropriate department, depending on the nature of the issue. Emergencies and crimes in progress should always be reported by calling 911.

    Other methods of reporting include contacting the Atwater Police Department at (209) 357-6396 or using TextMyGov by texting the keyword “code violation” to (209) 219-2099. When texting, follow the prompts carefully and only send photos when prompted. This ensures your report gets sent correctly to our Code Enforcement team.

    Can homelessness be solved by one agency?
    No. Homelessness is a complex issue influenced by many factors, including housing affordability, mental health, substance use disorders, economic hardship, and family crisis. Lasting solutions require collaboration among local governments, county agencies, nonprofit organizations, healthcare providers, businesses, and the community.
    What is the City's goal?
    The City of Atwater is committed to maintaining safe, clean, and welcoming public spaces while working collaboratively with partner agencies to connect individuals experiencing homelessness with available resources. The City’s approach seeks to balance compassion, public safety, and compliance with applicable laws.

  •  

    Thank you to those who participated in our first Community Academy!

    We are excited for the opportunity to continue this program and offer advanced courses for our graduates. 

    Please stayed tuned for more information.

    In the meantime, check out the official page for the academy where you can learn about what each session entailed and see photos!

  • City of Atwater Services

    The City of Atwater is a full service municipal corporation providing a variety of quality services to its citizens.

    • Recreation Programs
    • Dedicated Police
    • Fire Protection and Emergency Medical Response
    • Parks
    • Sewage
    • Sanitation – garbage, green waste, and recycle collection
    • Water
    • Street Sweeping
    • Storm Drainage Collection
    • Road Maintenance
    • Development Services
    • Housing Assistance
    • ADA Self-Evaluation
    • Trash Service Observed Holiday Schedule

    City Utilities

    The City provides water, waste water treatment, and garbage - sanitation. Electrical power is provided within the City of Atwater by either Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) or the Merced Irrigation Company (MID). Links to both utilities is provided below.

    Links

    Merced Irrigation District

    Pacific Gas & Electric

    Please see map below for trash service pick-up schedule with Mid Valley Disposal and street sweeping/leaf season schedule with the city. 

  •  

    Castle Air Muesem                                         

    Bloss Mansion

    Bellevue Bowl

    Razzari Ice Skating Rink

  •  

    Overlay Project - Carter Way, Mitchell Ave, Cedar Ave, and Shaffer Road.

    Downtown Pedestrian Project - Phase 3:

    The project proposes constructing new curbs/gutters, sidewalks, curb ramps, replacement residential driveway approaches, and conform paving as required. Improvements are proposed along Linden Street, Oak Avenue, Mulberry Avenue, Laurel Avenue, Kadota Avenue, Juniper Avenue, Third Street, and First Street.

    Downtown Pedestrian Project - Phase 4:

    The project proposes constructing new curbs/gutters, sidewalks, curb ramps, replacement residential driveway approaches, and conform paving as required. Improvements are proposed along Holly Avenue, Hemlock Avenue, Grove Avenue, Fir Avenue, Elm Avenue, Eucalyptus Street, Packers Street, and High Street.

     

  •  

    Frequently Asked Questions: Homelessness Response

     

    What is the City's role in addressing homelessness?
    The City of Atwater works to maintain public health and safety while connecting individuals experiencing homelessness with available resources through partnerships with Merced County, law enforcement, service providers, and community organizations. Although the City plays an important role, homelessness is a regional issue that requires collaboration among many agencies.
    Why can't the City simply remove homeless individuals from public spaces?
    Federal and state laws protect the constitutional rights of all individuals, including those experiencing homelessness. The City must comply with these legal requirements before taking enforcement action or removing encampments or personal property. City actions must balance public safety with the legal rights of individuals.
    Is it illegal to be homeless?
    No. Being homeless is not a crime. However, individuals experiencing homelessness are subject to the same laws as everyone else. The City and Police Department may take enforcement action when laws or municipal codes are violated.
    What departments respond to homelessness?
    Several City departments work together, including:

    • Police Department
    • Public Works
    • Code Enforcement

    The City also coordinates with Merced County and local service providers to address homelessness through outreach and available assistance programs.

    What happens when the City receives a complaint?
    Each complaint is evaluated based on its location and circumstances. Staff determine the appropriate response, which may include:

    • Welfare checks
    • Outreach and referrals to services
    • Code enforcement
    • Cleanup of public property when legally permissible
    • Enforcement of criminal violations, when applicable

    Responses vary depending on the specific situation and applicable laws.

    Can the City force someone into a shelter?
    No. Individuals generally cannot be compelled to accept shelter or services unless authorized by law under specific circumstances.
    Does the City offer homeless services?
    The City does not directly operate homeless shelters or social service programs. Instead, the City works with Merced County and community partners that provide services such as emergency shelter, behavioral health treatment, housing assistance, employment support, and other resources.

    Links to resources:

    What should I do if someone is trespassing or committing a crime?
    If there is an emergency or a crime in progress, call 911 immediately.

    For non-emergency concerns, contact the Atwater Police Department’s non-emergency line at (209) 357-6396 so officers can assess the situation.

    What if I see someone who appears to need medical or mental health assistance?
    If the situation is an emergency, call 911. If there is no immediate danger but you are concerned about someone’s well-being, contact the Police Department, (209) 357-6396, so the appropriate response can be coordinated.
    Does the Police Department conduct outreach?
    Yes. Officers often engage with individuals experiencing homelessness, provide information about available services, and work with partner agencies when appropriate, while also addressing public safety concerns.
    Why do encampments sometimes return after they have been cleaned?
    Many individuals experiencing homelessness remain in the area due to limited housing options, available services, personal circumstances, or other challenges. While the City may conduct cleanups and enforcement activities when appropriate, long-term solutions require housing, treatment, employment assistance, and ongoing support.
    Why doesn't the City remove encampments immediately?
    The City must follow applicable laws and procedures before removing encampments or personal belongings. Depending on the circumstances, this may include providing notice, coordinating outreach efforts, and ensuring legal requirements are met.
    What happens to personal belongings during a cleanup?
    The City follows applicable legal requirements regarding the handling and storage of personal property. Property that is abandoned or poses an immediate health or safety hazard may be handled in accordance with state and local laws.
    How can residents help address homelessness?
    Community members can:

    • Report concerns through the appropriate City channels.
    • Support local nonprofit organizations and service providers.
    • Volunteer with community organizations.
    • Treat all individuals with dignity and respect.
    • Help keep public spaces clean by reporting illegal dumping and hazards.

    How do I report an encampment or other concerns?
    Residents can report concerns through the City’s designated reporting methods or by contacting the appropriate department, depending on the nature of the issue. Emergencies and crimes in progress should always be reported by calling 911.

    Other methods of reporting include contacting the Atwater Police Department at (209) 357-6396 or using TextMyGov by texting the keyword “code violation” to (209) 219-2099. When texting, follow the prompts carefully and only send photos when prompted. This ensures your report gets sent correctly to our Code Enforcement team.

    Can homelessness be solved by one agency?
    No. Homelessness is a complex issue influenced by many factors, including housing affordability, mental health, substance use disorders, economic hardship, and family crisis. Lasting solutions require collaboration among local governments, county agencies, nonprofit organizations, healthcare providers, businesses, and the community.
    What is the City's goal?
    The City of Atwater is committed to maintaining safe, clean, and welcoming public spaces while working collaboratively with partner agencies to connect individuals experiencing homelessness with available resources. The City’s approach seeks to balance compassion, public safety, and compliance with applicable laws.
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