Rec. & Parks staying busy for the community
The Something Better Podcast
On Episode 28 of The Something Better Podcast Recreation & Parks Director Darin Budak discusses new changes at The Park at River Walk, programs being offered through the department and gets into the benefits of the Park Ranger Program. Darin even discusses an upcoming major project that should be complete by summer 2026.
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Multi-modal projects
The Something Better Podcast
Director Zac Meyer and Assistant City Manager Gary Hallen return to talk multi-modal projects the City is bringing to our local roads. But, what exactly is multi-modal and what does it mean for road users? Zac and Gary explain and tell us about projects you may soon see when you're moving around town, how they're funded, and how they'll make a difference in your life.
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Emergency Preparedness
The Something Better Podcast
We welcome Bakersfield Fire Chief Kevin Albertson and BFD PIO AJ Clark back to the podcast this episode to talk about something that is on a lot of people's minds after the devastating fires in L.A. in 2024: How can you keep your home and family safe ahead of fire season? They explain how to come up with a plan for your family in an emergency, whether something like the L.A. fires can happen here, and how the would respond if it did. As always, thanks for listening, don't forget to like and subscribe to the podcast on your favorite service so you never miss an episode!
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Enhancing your Arena experience
The Something Better Podcast
Adam Miller returns to the podcast to talk about the improvements that have been made at the Dignity Health Arena. Miller is the General Manager of the Arena and in this episode he tells us what you can expect when you come to a game or event at the City's premiere venue. From seat and scoreboard upgrades to saving on energy costs with new solar collection panels. And don't forget the new name on the outside! Remember to like and subscribe so you don't miss an episode!
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H Street Improvements Project: Making safer for all
The Something Better Podcast
A major improvement project is coming to H Street in Downtown Bakersfield, so Director Zac Meyer and Assistant City Manager Gary Hallen stopped by to talk about what you can expect as things get underway. New roundabouts, pedestrian crossing bulb-outs, lane reductions and more are on the way to the road. Learn why we're making these improvements and how they'll help everyone who uses the road, from vehicle drivers to walkers and joggers as well as bicyclists.
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Breaking down Boards & Commissions
The Something Better Podcast
The is always looking to fill seats on our boards and commissions. And on this episode of The Something Better Podcast, City Clerk Julie Drimakis and Assistant City Clerk Cari Cowling breakdown the importance of each, their roles within the City, recruitment and how you can apply. Anyone interested in learning more and applying for a board or commission can visit the
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Wastewater 2.0: Sewer Rates and more
The Something Better Podcast
Asst. Water Director Evette Roldan returns to talk more about the City's , the proposed sewer rate changes and Prop 218 notices and more about the . And if you missed Evette's first visit, check it out .
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Journey Through Time on the Bakersfield Trail!
The Something Better Podcast
Looking for something fun to do around town... and maybe learn something while you're at it? has just what you're looking for with their new ! The trail takes you on a journey through time in Bakersfield, checking out spots you might never have known about and telling you the history of our City along the way. Visit Bakersfield manager Matt Billingsley joins the podcast to talk about what their office does plus how you can earn cool prizes and up your Bakersfield trivia game at the same time!
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It's Condorstown!
The Something Better Podcast
We hope you had a great holiday break and are ready for more of The Something Better Podcast! Adam Miller, General Manager for the is back to talk about the Bakersfield Condors, back for season 27! We talk about the team's connection with the community, why it's so important, and ways the community embraces the team like the annual Teddy Bear Toss. Not only do we discuss the club's history, but its future, too, touching on the youth program, the Mini Condors!
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Holiday Safety Tips from the Bakersfield Fire Department
The Something Better Podcast
The keeps us safe every day, responding to fires and medical emergencies and even car crashes. But the holidays can bring their own safety concerns, too. Fire Chief Kevin Albertson and Battalion Chief A.J. Clark join the podcast to talk about how to keep your family safe in the kitchen, decorating and in case of an emergency. Learn what you should have prepared before disaster strikes.
info_outlineFlush... OK, now what?
Ever wonder what happens after you flush? Or how water is treated after it goes down your sink or shower drains?
Wonder no more! Assistant Water Director Evette Roldan stops by to talk all things wastewater, from what it is to how it's treated and what happens to it after it's treated.
Learn about the City of Bakersfield's two Wastewater Treatment Plants, plants 2 and 3 and why there is no plant 1. Plus, what the future of wastewater looks like!