Weekly Update - January 12, 2024

View as Webpage

Contra Costa County offices will be closed on Monday, January 15, in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Emergency services and law enforcement will remain available. 

Supervisors Federal D. Glover and Candace Andersen are taking on new leadership roles for the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors in 2024. During the January 9, 2024, Board meeting, Supervisor Glover was sworn in as Chair and Supervisor Andersen as Vice-Chair of the Board of Supervisors. 

District 5 Supervisor Federal D. Glover, who represents Hercules, Rodeo, Crockett, Martinez, Bay Point, Pacheco, Clyde, Pittsburg, and parts of Antioch and Marsh Creek, is the Board’s first and only African American Supervisor. He was elected to the Board in 2000, served four previous terms as Chair, and is the fourth longest-serving Supervisor in California. Supervisor Glover announced that he would retire at the end of his current term in December 2024, thus ending six consecutive terms as the District 5 supervisor. 

District 2 Supervisor Candace Andersen represents Alamo, Blackhawk, Canyon, Danville, Diablo, Lafayette, Moraga, Orinda, Rossmoor, San Ramon, Tassajara Valley, and parts of unincorporated Walnut Creek. She was first elected to the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors in June 2012. She ran unopposed in 2016, 2020, and once again has no opponent in the March 2024 election. Supervisor Andersen currently sits on 28 local and regional boards and commissions addressing planning, land use, transportation, pensions, mental health, healthcare, reuse and recycling, economic development, and public safety. 

Supervisors Glover and Andersen will lead the five-member elected body that sets the direction of County government and oversees its $5.5 billion budget to serve the 1.2 million residents of this diverse East Bay County with a “AAA” bond rating. 

Join Supervisor Andersen and other community leaders on Monday, January 15, 2024, at the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Open Mic Celebration at the San Ramon City Hall Rotunda from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., with a Reception following until 5:00 p.m. Everyone is welcome and invited.

This year’s prompt is “Discuss One Word That Best Represents MLK’s Work and Legacy To You”.

Also being honored is Demetrius Ball, Principal at California High School.

The Board of Supervisors is honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. during the 46th Annual Commemoration Event on Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2024, at 11 am in the Board of Supervisors Chambers, 1025 Escobar St., in Martinez.

The theme of the event is “Beloved Community.” The celebration will feature keynote speaker Dr. Adam Clark, who has served as Superintendent of the Mt. Diablo Unified School District since July 2020. He earned his doctorate from Saint Mary’s College of California and will share his perspective on Dr. King’s legacy.

The Board will honor Adult Humanitarian of the Year, Willie Mims, and Student Humanitarians of the Year, Vedant Kathrani, Robi, and Noor To-Zul-Ahmad, from Dougherty Valley High School in San Ramon. Their passionate leadership, advocacy, and community service have improved the lives of Contra Costa County residents and reflect the spirit of Dr. King’s work and achievements.

The program also includes entertainment from the Pittsburg High School, and performers Doris and Joe Bumpus. The public can also watch the ceremony at www.contracosta.ca.gov or contracostatv.org. The celebration will also be broadcast live on Contra Costa Television (CCTV) channels, Comcast Cable 27, ATT/U-Verse 99, and Astound 32 & 1027.

Long-time Alamo resident Sharon Burke served as the Chair of the Alamo Municipal Advisory Council (MAC) in 2022 and 2023. Sharon is a dedicated community member, working diligently for the betterment of Alamo.

Supervisor Andersen attended the January 9 Alamo MAC meeting to thank Sharon for her service chairing the MAC and presented her with an engraved gavel. Fortunately, Sharon will continue her service as a member of the MAC.

To learn more about the Alamo MAC, please go to Alamo Municipal Advisory Council.

The Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors appointed Captain Jane Andreotti to fill the role of Interim Animal Services Director during a special meeting on Thursday, January 11. Captain Andreotti will assume the role of Interim Director on January 16, 2024, and will hold the position through the appointment of a permanent Animal Services Director.

Captain Andreotti possesses over 30 years of public sector experience, having previously served in various roles with the Berkeley and Walnut Creek Police Departments. Since joining Contra Costa Animal Services in 2009, Captain Andreotti has progressed through the Field Services ranks, as an Animal Services Officer, Lieutenant, and ultimately Captain.

"I’m honored to assume the role of Interim Animal Services Director during this period of transition,” said Andreotti. “With a steadfast commitment to the welfare of our community's animals, I’m very confident that our dedicated team will continue to ensure quality services and prioritize the well-being and safety of the people and animals of Contra Costa County."

The Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors will initiate a recruitment process to identify and appoint a new Director for Contra Costa Animal Services. Details about the recruitment process will be made available in the coming weeks.

During this transition period, Contra Costa Animal Services remains committed to its mission of promoting and protecting the health, safety, and welfare of people and animals in the community. The organization will continue to provide essential services to residents and uphold its commitment to the humane treatment of animals.

The photo above was taken right after the appointment. From left to right, Supervisor Ken Carlson, Supervisor Diane Burgis, Captain Jane Andreotti, Supervisor Federal Glover, and Supervisor Candace Andersen.

Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff is now accepting Spring 2024 Citizens Academy applications. The Citizens Academy provides community members with an inside look at the Office of the Sheriff and its mission, duties, responsibilities, and services.

The Citizens Academy will take place in Martinez with one special day dedicated to Clayton at the range. It begins on February 21 and runs for 6 consecutive weeks. Classes meet Wednesday evenings from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. with one Saturday session scheduled for March 9 from 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

How to Apply: Visit www.cocosheriff.org. Completed applications should be submitted via e-mail to: csu@so.cccounty.us. Application deadline: February 9, 2024.

Contra Costa County District Attorney Diana Becton is pleased to announce applications are now open for the Spring 2024 Community Academy.

The free, 10-week course will be held at the District Attorney’s Office in downtown Martinez from 6:00-8:30 p.m. every Wednesday starting February 21, 2024.

District Attorneys play an important role in the criminal justice system. Not only are they in charge of prosecuting criminal cases on behalf of the People of California, but they also manage an office of deputy district attorneys, investigators, victim witness advocates, law clerks, administrative assistants, and case prep analysts. Moreover, prosecutors review police investigations, make charging decisions, prepare for trial, and negotiate settlements. This is all part of the District Attorney’s role in enforcing the laws crafted by the legislative branch and implemented by the executive branch of the state government.

Participants in the academy will learn about these, and other aspects, of the District Attorney’s Office. They will also get the opportunity to meet with a Superior Court judge as part of a court tour, visit the Martinez Detention Facility, and understand how the District Attorney’s Office has various community outreach programs for victims, children, and parents.

The Community Academy is open to residents 18 and older who live or work in Contra Costa County. To apply and learn more, go to contracostada.org by January 26th.

On January 1, County Connection lowered its fare rates for Youth Clipper and Clipper START $1.00/ride and lowered Clipper fares on express routes to match that of their local routes $2.00/ride.

The Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors is now accepting nominations for the 2024 Contra Costa County Youth Hall of Fame Awards.

These awards are presented annually to outstanding Contra Costa County residents between 12 and 18 years old. Students will be recognized at the 30th Annual César E. Chávez Commemorative Celebration on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. in Board Chambers at 1025 Escobar Sreet in Martinez. Community members can also join the event live on Contra Costa Television channels and the County’s website.

Nominees should demonstrate exemplary behavior in one of five categories:

• Good Samaritan: Goes out of their way to do for others without seeking recognition

• Volunteerism: Lends a helping hand for the good of the community; Gives their time and energy to a worthy cause or organization

• Teamwork: Works unselfishly for the good of the team

• Leadership and Civic Engagement: A natural leader who inspires others and works to make a difference in school and the community

• Perseverance: Has worked hard to overcome obstacles and achieve success 

For more information and the application form to nominate youth in our community, visit Contra-Costa-County-Cesar-E-Chavez-Youth. We invite you to submit your nomination by completing the form and uploading it to the County website or emailing the application and your letter of recommendation to Lia Bristol at YouthNomination@dcd.cccounty.us. 

Nominations must be received or postmarked by February 16, 2024. Recipients will be recognized at the March 26, 2024, Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors’ César E. Chávez Celebration. 

Due to predicted rain, Caltrans has CANCELLED the closure of southbound Interstate 680 in Pleasanton between the I-580/I-680 connector and Koopman Road on MLK Jr. Weekend, Jan. 12-16.

The closure is cancelled due to predicted rain. Caltrans is aiming to reschedule the closure for February, possibly President’s Day weekend.

Stay safe as chilly temperatures are in the forecast for Contra Costa County. 

Take steps now to protect people, pets, plants, and pipes from the cold:

• People: Wear layers, limit time outdoors, and check heaters in advance. 

• Pets: Bring pets indoors at night and provide them with plenty of warmth. 

• Plants: Cover or bring sensitive plants indoors. 

• Pipes: Wrap/cover exposed outdoor pipes to prevent freezing. 

Recognize the symptoms of cold weather exposure:

• Confusion, dizziness, exhaustion and shivering are signs of possible hypothermia. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

• Gray, white or yellow skin discoloration, numbness or waxy skin are symptoms of frostbite. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

• In the case of overexposure to freezing temperatures, remove wet clothing and immediately warm the body with a blanket or warm fluids like hot cider or soup.

Stay safe on roadways and beware of black ice, which can form on roads during frigid temperatures.

Need help and resources? Call 211, text "HOPE" to 20121 or visit https://www.crisis-center.org/.

Here are safety tips to stay safe and warm from PG&E: https://www.safetyactioncenter.pge.com/articles/41-stay-warm-safe-winter.

Register to get emergency alerts via cell phone, email, and landline with the Contra Costa County Community Warning System at https://cwsalerts.com/. On this website, click on "Know Your Zone" to learn in advance what evacuation zone you're in.

On January 18, 2024, the Danville Alamo Walnut Creek Branch of the AAUW is hosting a presentation at the Danville Congregation Church supporting girls affected by social media misuse.

Also on January 18th, the San Ramon AAUW is hosting "Girls Garage" a non-profit design and construction school, at the San Ramon Community Center.

Click on the event to learn more.

Affordable Housing Finance Committee (AHFC)

The Contra Costa County Internal Operations Committee (IOC) of the Board of Supervisors is now accepting applications from individuals to fill vacant positions for the AHFC:

• Central County (Unincorporated) Representative,
• At-Large/Community Representative.

Applicants must:

• Be a resident of Contra Costa County in one of the above vacant residency membership categories.
• Have professional experience in the field of affordable housing finance, design, development, or property management.

To obtain an application or further information, contact Kristin Sherk, staff liaison, at 925-655-2889 or Kristin.Sherk@dcd.cccounty.us. Applications may also be obtained from the Clerk of the Board located at 1025 Escobar Street, 1st Floor, Martinez, CA 94553. 

For more information, visit contracosta.ca.gov/AHFC. A fillable application is available on the website for your convenience.

The Iron Horse Corridor Management Program Advisory Committee

Established to provide citizen input for a management program for the Iron Horse Corridor. The Alamo Seat and District II Seat have expiring terms

First 5 – Contra Costa Children and Families Commission - http://www.first5coco.org/.

The commission works to support early childhood development through a strategic plan developed under the California Children and Families First Act of 1998.

District II Alternate Seat – expiring term



Community Advisory Board (CAB) on Public Safety Realignment

The Community Advisory Board (CAB) on Public Safety Realignment was established by the Community Corrections Partnership (CCP) Executive Committee in December 2012 to provide input on community needs; assess implementation of the realignment plan; review data on realignment outcomes; advise the CCP on community engagement strategies; offer recommendations for ongoing realignment planning; advise County agencies regarding programs for implementation in the County; and encourage outcomes that are consistent with the County’s Reentry Strategic Plan. 

The Community Corrections Partnership is seeking applications for (1) Voting Member and up to (3) Alternate Member seats on the CAB.

For more information on CAB membership duties and activities, please visit their website contracosta.ca.gov/4165/Community-Advisory-Board-CAB.

Submit an Application Online here. Questions? Contact: The Office of Reentry & Justice, by phone at (925) 313-4087.

Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA) Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC)

Contra Costa County is seeking an individual to serve on the Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA) Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC) as a Public Representative on behalf of the County.

The individual will serve a four-year term in a volunteer capacity. The individual selected for this position must:

• Live in the unincorporated area of the County;
• Attend virtual committee meetings on the 4th Wednesday of every month at 6:00 p.m.; and
• Review agenda packets and develop input on agenda items beforehand.

The CCTA CAC reviews transportation programs and plans throughout the County, to advise and provide recommendations to the CCTA Board of Directors. This includes transportation projects and programs funded by the county half-cent transportation sales tax, which CCTA oversees. CCTA maintains its standing CAC to provide citizen perspective, participation, and involvement in the Measure J-funded and voter-approved Transportation Expenditure Plan and Growth Management Program. The CAC members have an opportunity to learn about and influence transportation and growth issues within Contra Costa County and in other jurisdictions through scheduled presentations by transportation experts, advocates, and CCTA staff.

The Integrated Pest Management Advisory Committee is seeking applicants for two public seats. The announcement is available athttps://www.cchealth.org/about-contra-costa-health/leadership/commissions-advisory-groups/integrated-pest-management-advisory-committee.

Application forms are available from the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors or by calling (925) 655-2000. Please submit completed applications to the Department of Conservation & Development, 30 Muir Road, Martinez, CA 94553 (Attn: Robert Sarmiento) or email transportation@dcd.cccounty.us with “CCTA CAC County Representative Application” in the subject line no later than November 30, 2023.