The Laguna Niguel City Council presented a plaque Dec. 2 to outgoing Mayor Ray Genoway and heard his remarks reflecting on a year of policy work, events and local volunteerism.

Mayor Johns opened the presentation, then Genoway thanked staff, volunteers and residents and reviewed the year’s highlights: passage of an active transportation plan to support walking and biking, adoption of a biennial balanced budget with no new taxes, a first general-plan update in 33 years, and large community events such as the Sea Country Festival (which Genoway said drew more than 20,000 visitors). "This was an incredibly productive year for our entire team here at city hall," Genoway said, and he credited city staff and volunteers for the work.

Genoway also noted concerted local opposition to a proposed battery facility, saying residents and neighboring cities have pursued a coordinated effort at the California Energy Commission. "This is good government in action," he said.

Following the presentation, Parks and Recreation Director Harmon described holiday programming: the city’s annual Christmas tree lighting will be Saturday, Dec. 6 from 5 to 8 p.m., with the tree lighting at 5:30 p.m. and free parking and shuttle service from Crown Valley Park; the annual holiday parade is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 13 at 10 a.m. Harmon outlined logistics including road closures and limited parking and encouraged residents to visit the city website for details.

The meeting included brief public recognition: a certificate from Owen Engen Engle on behalf of Katrina Foley was presented to Mayor Johns and Mayor Pro Tem Kelly Jennings. Public comment on other items was minimal; the council approved the consent calendar before proceeding to the public hearing on codes.