As the calendar turns from 2025 to 2026, Escalon City officials are issuing a couple of reminders.

Local businesses need to renew their business licenses by Jan. 30, 2026 to avoid penalties. For additional information on the renewal process or business licenses in general, call 209-691-7423 or email BL@cityofescalon.org

Also, the recreational youth baseball/softball program that runs from March through May is looking for coaches. Business sponsors are also being sought for the season, with those taking part in the program able to advertise their company with a field fence banner at Hogan-Ennis Park during the baseball/softball season. The banners will then be placed along fencing on Escalon-Bellota Road for the rest of the year following the season.

Business sponsorships are available for $400 or $300 with a recreation baseball team sponsorship. Deadline to sign up as a sponsor is Jan. 20, 2026. Companies must provide their own banner with grommets for placement on the fence.

For more information about coaching or sponsorship opportunities, contact the Recreation Department at 209-691-7372 or recreation@cityofescalon.org

In terms of the weather, the forecast for the first week of the new year calls for a chance of rain daily from Thursday, Jan. 1 through Sunday, Jan. 4. Officials said that makes it a good time to remember some tips from the State Water Resources Control Board, which requires cities to protect stormwater from pollution.

Officials ask residents to place leaves and clippings in their green waste can and not in the street, and also to keep storm drains clear by cleaning away leaves and accumulated debris. Officials note that leaves and yard waste have the potential to harm water quality by adding excess nitrogen to local waterways during the decomposition process.

For questions or more information, contact Escalon Public Works at 209-691-7470.