This Marin County-focused blog post breaks down the state appeals court’s affirmation of a 2024 conviction tied to a Novato man accused of child molestation. It also rolls in a handful of local updates from Mill Valley, Novato, Kentfield, and San Rafael.
From courtroom outcomes to weather snapshots and community planning, these items show how Marin neighbors navigate public safety, infrastructure, and cultural events. It’s a lot to take in, but that’s life here—always something happening.
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What the Court Decided
The First District Court of Appeal affirmed the 2024 conviction of Erik Limeta Monterrubio, a 48-year-old from Novato, on two counts of child molestation involving an 11-year-old. The appellate panel said the trial court acted within its discretion by letting a detective who interviewed the child testify about her credibility and behavior as a sexual-abuse victim.
The decision, issued on Jan. 29, said the defense’s claims were forfeited because no one objected at trial. Even if there had been a mistake, they said it wouldn’t have changed the result.
The panel also dismissed Monterrubio’s claim of ineffective assistance of counsel. So, the Marin County Superior Court’s sentence stands, and Monterrubio is serving a 20-year term for the two offenses.
He’s currently at the Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility in San Diego. That’s a long way from Novato, but it’s where he’ll stay.
Marin Weather Snapshot
Marin saw light rain earlier in the week, with measurable totals from several towns. The National Weather Service measured about 0.83 inches in Mill Valley, 0.79 inches in Kentfield, and 0.35 inches in San Rafael, which helped ease the dry spell across the county’s hills and valleys.
Forecasts point to a warmer, drier trend through Friday. Daytime highs will land in the upper 60s to low 70s, with only a 20% chance of light rain Sunday night into Monday.
Expect sun-dappled mornings across Marinwood and Larkspur. There’s a bit more marine layer along the coast—pretty typical for this time of year.
Recent Rain Totals and Forecast
Reservoir managers and local hikers are keeping an eye on the watershed. Marin Municipal Water District says reservoir storage sits at 100% of capacity, well above the historical average of 86.14% for this date.
That buffer brings relief for communities from Mill Valley to Fairfax, especially with the spring shoulder season coming up. Rainfall often lags just as storms start brewing out in the Pacific again.
Marin Infrastructure and Community Updates
In local planning news, Mill Valley approved a conditional use permit for Mill Valley Gymnastics at 7 Locust Ave. The permit allows daily classes with up to 12 students, but the building doesn’t have dedicated on-site parking.
This decision is part of Mill Valley’s ongoing balancing act between small-business vitality and neighborhood traffic concerns. It’s a familiar story along the Corte Madera Creek corridor and near Blithedale Summit.
Mill Valley Gymnastics Permit
Residents and business owners in Marin County will notice how the permit fits with the city’s planning goals. It encourages family-oriented programming but also acknowledges parking headaches in older commercial districts.
The Locust Avenue site sits just a stone’s throw from Downtown Mill Valley and close to transit routes that serve Tam Valley neighborhoods. Not a bad spot, all things considered.
Community Highlights: Libraries and Film
In cultural news, the Novato Library is hosting a family-friendly film event this weekend. The PG-rated classic “Clue” will screen at 2:30 p.m. Saturday at 1720 Novato Blvd. with free admission and snacks.
It’s a classic Marin County outing—maybe catch the movie, stroll Grant Avenue, or wander along Novato Creek for a post-film walk. Nothing fancy, but it’s a nice way to spend a Saturday.
Looking Ahead in Marin County
From courtroom outcomes in Novato to weather patterns shaping outdoor plans in San Rafael, life here always feels a bit in motion. These updates show how Marin communities work to stay informed and safe.
Maybe you’re following a long legal process, or just planning a weekend trip to Mill Valley. Or maybe you’re curious about what’s happening with Novato library programming lately.
The county’s towns stay tightly connected—sharing stories that help neighbors face challenges and figure out everyday life together. That’s something you can’t help but appreciate around here.
Here is the source article for this story: In Your Town for Feb. 26, 2026
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