The City of El Cerrito partnered with Tripepi Smith to refresh its “News and Views” newsletter, a cornerstone of its community communication efforts. The redesign was initiated in April 2023, led by Business Analyst Skyler Addison with design support from Creative Director Kevin Bostwick.
The original redesign transformed the newsletter into a six-page trifold, introducing a modern aesthetic that prioritized imagery, readability and cohesion with the City’s branding. Cost-effective formatting and distribution were key considerations. Since then, Tripepi Smith has supported the City in producing two editions annually, released in the Spring and Fall.
Following the successful launch, Senior Business Analyst Kalee Cummings and Business Analyst Abby Romano took over project management to ensure the newsletter’s continued success and adaptability, with design support from Graphic Designer Jenni Wechsler.
The most recent edition, published in Fall 2024, reflects the newsletter’s evolution. Reduced to a four-page format, it adapts to the City’s changing needs while maintaining the design elements that residents and City staff appreciated. Released both online and via mail in late September 2024, the updated version continues to deliver engaging and streamlined content.
“Tripepi Smith has been instrumental in helping us elevate our News and Views newsletter,” said Assistant to the City Manager Will Provost. “Their team not only brings a fresh perspective to the design but also works closely with us to ensure our message reaches the community effectively. We’re thrilled with the results and appreciate their ability to adapt to our evolving needs.”
The News and Views newsletter serves as a vital tool for the City, sharing updates on major projects, seeking community input on initiatives like a new library or climate survey, recognizing local accomplishments and promoting events and civic updates. While the City provides the content, Tripepi Smith ensures it is collected, polished and designed to inform and inspire the community.
“The City of El Cerrito has been a wonderful partner in this process,” said Kalee. “Their clear vision for the newsletter allowed us to craft a publication that reflects their goals while connecting with the community. We’re proud to continue supporting their communication efforts.”
The News and Views newsletter is mailed to all El Cerrito residents and available on the City’s website, providing community members with an accessible and engaging way to stay informed.
City of El Cerrito
Incorporated in 1917, El Cerrito is located in Contra Costa County, California and is part of the Bay Area. The hilly areas of El Cerrito offer exquisite views of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco.
About Tripepi Smith
Tripepi Smith is a California-based marketing, technology and public affairs firm that serves for-profit, nonprofit and public agencies. Its unique mix of marketing and technology prowess provides a competitive advantage to agencies seeking to leverage the internet to achieve their communication goals. The firm provides full content creation services, including: ghost writing, collateral development, photography, video production, aerial imagery, search engine optimization, email marketing campaigns and website design and execution. Tripepi Smith clients include: City of American Canyon, City of Culver City, City of Cupertino, City of Daly City, City of Duarte, City of Grover Beach, City of Indian Wells, City of La Cañada Flintridge, City of Lake Forest, City of Livermore, City of Malibu, City of Napa, City of Palmdale, City of Paramount, City of Tracy, CalChoice Energy Authority, California Joint Powers Insurance Authority, Santa Clara County Fire Department, Costa Mesa Sanitary District, Rowland Water District, California City Management Foundation, Renne Public Law Group, West Coast Arborists, Scripps College, Blind Children’s Center and Climatec.
