Weekly Update - January 31, 2025

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Contra Costa County Immigration Statement

Amid recent changes and concerns about federal immigration policies, Contra Costa County wants to reassure you about our unwavering commitment to all members of our community, regardless of immigration status.


 Our Approach:


  • No Discrimination: Contra Costa County does not single out individuals based on their race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, gender or gender identity, sexual orientation, or immigration status.


  • Privacy Protection: We do not collect or share information about your immigration status unless required by state or federal law or a court order. Safeguarding your personal information is one of our most important priorities.


  • Access to Services: Everyone in our community should be able to access essential services, including healthcare. Recent federal actions will not affect how the County provides these services.


We recognize that fear and uncertainty can prevent people from seeking County programs and services, but we want to assure you that our services are here for you. You have the right to feel safe and secure in your community, and our longstanding policies are designed to uphold your safety and trust.


Contra Costa County stands united in creating a welcoming, inclusive environment where everyone has the support they need to thrive. We encourage you to reach out for assistance without hesitation, knowing that our commitment to serving and protecting all residents is steadfast.


For more information: Immigration Resources & Public Charge Information visit Immigration Resources & Public Charge Information | EHSD


Board Retreat Focused on Budget Forecasts and Economic Development

Supervisor Shanelle Scales-Preston, Supervisor Ken Carlson, Board Chair Candace Andersen, Supervisor John Gioa.


Community members and staff turned out for the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors annual retreat on Tuesday, January 28th, at San Ramon City Hall. City of San Ramon Mayor, Mark Armstrong, welcomed the group.

 

An economic outlook was provided by economist Chris Thornberg, a discussion of budget forecasts, and a presentation on economic development initiatives were the focus for the day.

 

To continue to follow the Board of Supervisors initiatives and to attend monthly Board meetings either in-person or via Zoom, please visit the county’s webpage Board-of-Supervisors.

San Ramon Mayor Mark Armstrong.

Supervisor Andersen Hosts Town Hall

Dedicated to African American Wellness on Monday, February 3rd

On February 3rd from 6-8pm, join Supervisor Andersen, our Office of Racial Equity and Social Justice, and Ceres Policy Research at the Family Justice Center to share your feedback regarding your needs as part of the African American community residing in District 2.


The Board of Supervisors approved the African American Holistic Resource and Wellness Hub Feasibility Study and appointed community members to a steering committee to design and lead a procurement process for a contractor to conduct a feasibility study to help determine the best design and structure for the County’s first African American Holistic Resource and Wellness Hub. This in-person listening session is the next step in that process to assess the needs, gaps and wanted services, with the final recommended plan to be presented to the Board of Supervisors this spring.


To learn more about the Office of Racial Equity and Social Justice, click here.

 

When: Monday, February 3rd from 6-8pm

Where: Family Justice Center, 319 Diablo Rd, # 103, Danville

Who: African American Community Members from District 2

San Ramon Valley Education Foundation Hosts State of the District Address

The San Ramon Valley Education Foundation (SRVEF) Major Gifts and Endowment Fund will host its Celebrate Innovation in Education luncheon at Diablo Country Club. The entire community is invited to join and hear about the State of the District address by San Ramon Valley Unified School District (SRVUSD) Superintendent, CJ Cammack and to learn about the initiatives the Endowment Fund has supported this school year.
This annual lunch fundraiser supports SRVEF’s Major Gifts and Endowment Fund, which is dedicated to fostering innovative educational programs that have a lasting impact on SRVUSD students. “Our committee takes great pride in identifying and supporting forward-thinking educational ideas,” said Ginny Hooper, Endowment Committee member. “One such example is the Dougherty Valley High Solutionary Academy, an innovative and collaborative learning environment that has shown great benefits for effective teaching models and student engagement. Guests at the lunch will be inspired by exciting updates on the transformative projects made possible through this funding.”  
WHAT: SRVEF Celebrate Innovation in Education Luncheon
WHERE:  Diablo Country Club, 1700 Clubhouse Road, Diablo, CA
WHEN:  11:30 am to 1:30 pm; Wednesday, February 12, 2025
For more information about Celebrate Innovation in Education and to register, visit bit.ly/srvefcie2025. If your organization would like to become a sponsor for this event, please email us at sponsors@srvef.org.
Contra Costa County Clerk-Recorder's Annual Valentine's Day “Destination Weddings” Event
Start your love story or renew your vows in an unforgettable way this Valentine’s Day! The Contra Costa County Clerk’s Office is thrilled to announce its annual Valentine’s Day Destination Weddings, hosted this year at the iconic Cobra Experience Museum in Martinez on Friday, February 14, 2025.
Nestled in the heart of Martinez, the Cobra Experience Museum offers an elegant unique automotive setting for your special day. Surrounded by beautifully restored classic cars and a vibrant atmosphere, couples will have the opportunity to exchange vows in a venue that exudes charisma and charm. Whether you’re a car enthusiast or simply looking for a one-of-a-kind, memorable location, this hidden gem is the perfect place to say, “I do.”
Event Details:
 *  Date: Friday, February 14, 2025
 *  Location: Cobra Experience Museum, Martinez, CA
 *  Appointments: Limited appointments available—secure your time by calling 925-335-7900.
The Clerk-Recorder’s office has also opened additional wedding appointments at our office to accommodate the high demand on Valentine’s Day.
A marriage license must be obtained before a ceremony can be performed. Couples must purchase a license before their ceremony appointment at the County Clerk-Recorder’s office in Martinez. The fee for a public marriage license is $95, while a confidential license is $100. The Destination Wedding Ceremony fee is $120.
The Cobra Experience Museum is dedicated to showcasing the history and legacy of Shelby American’s iconic cars. With a stunning collection of classic vehicles and engaging exhibits, the museum provides a dynamic and visually striking environment for any occasion.
For more information about this event or other Clerk’s Office services, please visit www.contracostavote.gov or call 925-335-7900.

Lafayette Chamber of Commerce Honors

Nick Bozych as the 2025 "Business Person of the Year "


Supervisor Andersen, Nick and Kerstin Bozych


On Thursday, January 30, The Lafayette Chamber of Commerce honored Nick Bozych with the 2025 Business Person of the Year Award at the Lafayette Park Hotel. Since 2012 Nick has been the Managing Director of the Lafayette Park Hotel and Spa. Lafayette businesses and non-profits have benefitted greatly as a result of his generous, community minded work.

East Bay Leadership Council's East Bay Leadership Series

On Wednesday, January 29th, Supervisor Andersen participated in the 39th Annual East Bay Leadership Series.


The event’s keynote speaker, Judy Woodruff of PBS News, offered valuable insights from her remarkable 40-year career in covering national news. She emphasized the importance of communities like ours coming together to focus on areas of importance we do agree upon, rather than falling into the trap of divisiveness so often seen elsewhere, especially in Washington D.C.


East Bay Leadership Council's focus is on tackling some of the most urgent issues facing the East Bay. These include housing affordability, workforce shortages, climate change, transit access, and policies that often fail to address the realities experienced by both businesses and residents. To learn more about the East Bay Leadership Council and their work, visit eastbayleadershipcouncil.com.


Pictured above: Hercules Councilmember Dili Bhattarai, Hercules Vice Mayor Chris Kelley, Supervisor Candace Andersen, Walnut Creek Councilmember Cindy Silva, Patience Ofodu, Head of Community Relations & Strategic Partnerships of East Bay Economic Development Alliance, Tamia Brown, Executive Director of CCC Workforce Development, and Chair-Elect Chadi Chazbek, East Bay Leadership Council

Supervisor Andersen stands with Judy Woodruff

Supervisor Andersen Attends Breakfast Meeting with PG&E's CEO

Pictured above: Patti Poppe, CEO of PG&E, Supervisor Andersen, Sharon Jenkins, Director, Government Affairs & External Relations for John Muir Health, Sarah Yoell, PG&E Government Affairs Manager.


On Monday, January 27th, Supervisor Andersen attended a thought-provoking community breakfast with a keynote address by Patricia Poppe, CEO of PG&E. Ms. Poppe talked about innovation, operational excellence, and customer-focused initiatives, drawing on her vast leadership experience in the energy and automotive sectors.


The breakfast was sponsored by Danville's Community Presbyterian Church (CPC), as part of their "For the Valley" initiative.

Supervisor Andersen's Television Interview on Wildfire Prevention

KPIX CBS news reporter Sooji Nam, spoke with Supervisor Andersen and ConFire on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, highlighting Contra Costa County's efforts in fuel management and fire prevention, in light of the devastating Southern California wildfires.


Supervisor Andersen answered questions from Sooji about the heroic efforts of ConFire and how to sign up with the County's Community Warning System (CWS). Click here to see the interview.

White Pony Express Launches Gift Card Campaign to

 Support Those Impacted by the Los Angeles Fires

Contra Costa nonprofit White Pony Express (WPE) has launched a campaign to collect and distribute gift cards to the survivors of the Los Angeles fires. Gift cards will offer recipients the flexibility to address unique needs and circumstances during this challenging time. Each gift card will be accompanied by a heartfelt, hand-written message of love and support.

 

While many supplies are being collected and offered to those impacted by the fires, meeting specific needs—such as correct clothing size/style or food appropriate to culture and dietary requirements—can be difficult. WPE’s gift card campaign provides an adaptive, customizable solution that addresses people’s unique needs and preferences.

 

Gift cards for those impacted by the Los Angeles fires can be mailed to the attention of Eve Birge or dropped off at WPE’s headquarters [2470 Bates Ave Suite D Concord CA 94520]. Contact WPE’s Volunteer Coordinator to learn about card-making opportunities and other volunteer projects: Volunteer@whiteponyexpress.org.

 

To learn more about white pony express click here.

Seeking Nominations for the Cesar E. Chavez

Contra Costa County Youth Hall of Fame

The Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors is now accepting nominations for the 2025 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 31st Annual César E. Chávez Commemorative Celebration on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at 11 am in Board Chambers at 1025 Escobar St. in Martinez. Community members can also join the event live on Contra Costa Television channels and the County’s website.

 

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 25, 2025. Recipients will be recognized at the April 1, 2025, Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors’ César E. Chávez Celebration.

PG&E Offers Customers Ways to Manage their Energy Use

Resources PG&E offers customers to help manage energy use and bills:

  • Check out our Energy Action Guide for product and program guidance to help customers meet their unique energy needs.
  • Personalized Rate Comparison supports customers by providing the best rate plan options for their household, which can help save money on energy bills.
  • Budget Billing averages out energy costs for more predictable monthly payments and helps customers avoid seasonal bill peaks.
  • Medical Baseline is an assistance program for residential customers who depend on power for certain medical needs. It offers cost reduction on energy bills and extra notifications before a planned safety outage.


Income-eligible programs that can help customers lower their bills:


Energy Efficiency Support Programs

  • GoGreen Home Financing: a statewide program which offers affordable financing for energy efficiency upgrades to help homeowners and renters reduce their energy use.
  • Golden State Rebates: This is a statewide program that provides residential residents with instant rebates on energy-efficient products including smart thermostats, air conditioners, and water heaters. Homeowners and renters are eligible to receive these rebates through single-use coupons they can redeem in-store or online at participating retailers.



To learn more about ways to save, go to PG&E Energy Efficiency.

The Cleaner Contra Costa Reduce, Reuse, Repair Challenge

511 Contra Costa: Big Win on Transit and Winter Walk Challenge

Families Empowered and Transformed (F.E.A.T.) 

San Ramon Valley Unified School District Career Technical Education Committee

 


Office of Traffic Safety Awards Grant to Contra Costa Health for Pedestrian and Safety Program

 

Contra Costa Health (CCH) has received a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) for continued support of its Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Program.

 

The program will promote safety among pedestrians and bicyclists and emphasize the drivers’ responsibility to look out for people using roads and paths. The grant program runs through September 2025.

 

Local data show an increase of nearly 30% in fatal crashes involving pedestrians over the past decade in Contra Costa County, and that pedestrians and bicyclists are 2.4 times more likely to be seriously injured or killed in a traffic crash compared to drivers. The OTS grant funds multiple efforts to improve safety for pedestrians and bicyclists.


Grant funds will support various activities focused on bicycle and pedestrian safety:

  • Support for local jurisdictions to include public health principals in road safety plans and address the community conditions that create unsafe environments for non-motorized road users.
  • Promote the CCH traffic safety campaign, “Slow Roads Save Lives.”
  • Community bicycle and walk “audits” of streets with high rates of pedestrian or bicyclist fatalities and serious injury crashes.
  • Bicycle training courses that teach youth skills to help them stay safe on the road.
  • Community events that promote bicyclist and pedestrian visibility and the importance of sharing the road, slowing down, and staying alert to bicyclists and pedestrians while driving. 

AmeriCorps VISTA Job Opportunity!

Contra Costa County Civil Grand Jury Seeks Members

Every year, in all 58 California counties, a group of citizens takes an oath to serve as civil grand jurors. Their function is to investigate the operations of the various officers, departments, and agencies of local government. Each Civil Grand Jury determines which officers, departments, and agencies it will investigate during its term of office.

 

To learn more and apply to serve on the Civil Grand Jury, visit: https://www.cc-courts.org/civil/grand-jury.aspx

District Attorney Community Academy Now Accepting Applications

The District Attorney’s Office is committed to informing Contra Costa County residents about our office's work in seeking justice for victims of crime. 

 

To achieve this, we've established the Community Academy, a no-cost, 10-week program designed specifically for adults residing or working in Contra Costa County. This learning opportunity aims to foster stronger community relations and provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of our criminal justice system. This includes understanding how cases are filed, exploring the various types of crimes we investigate and prosecute, and delving into our multifaceted role, which extends beyond prosecuting cases.

 

In addition to weekly classroom sessions, the Community Academy offers unique experiences, including tours of the Martinez Detention Facility, and Superior Court, and participating in a mock trial. This approach allows participants to gain practical insights into the inner workings of our criminal justice system. 

 

Interested individuals can apply for the Community Academy by completing an application and undergoing a background check. 

 

For those seeking further information or have questions, please contact us via email at DA-CommunityAcademy@contracostada.org. 

 

Join us for this informative 10-week journey, where you'll expand your knowledge and explore key components of our criminal justice system by hearing from the District Attorney, the Public Defender, a Judge, prosecutors, and police chiefs.

 

This spring's sessions are held Wednesdays, 6-8:30pm, March 12 to May 14.

 

Visit the District Attorney's website to learn more and fill out an online application. Applications must be received by the end of February.

District Attorney's Neighborhood Restorative Partnership Community Program Seeking Community Safety Panelists

Contra Costa County Now Accepting Applications for Auditor-Controller
Contra Costa County has begun the search for its next Auditor-Controller following the retirement announcement of Robert Campbell, who will step down in March 2025 after more than three decades of service. Campbell has held the elected position of Auditor-Controller since January 2011.
The Board of Supervisors is required by Government Code Section 25304 to appoint a qualified candidate to complete the remainder of the current term, which runs through 2027.
Qualifications for the Auditor-Controller Role
Must be a registered voter in Contra Costa County and qualified to vote for that office at the time of appointment. To qualify for appointment to the office, a person must also meet at least one of the following criteria: 
  • Possess a valid and active certificate issued by the California Board of Accountancy under Chapter 1 (commencing with Section 5000) of Division of the Business Professions Code showing the person to be, and a permit authorizing the person to practice as, a certified public accountant.
  • Possess a baccalaureate degree from a accredited university, college or other four-year institution with a major in accounting, as described in subdivision (a) of Section 5081.1 of the Business and Professions Code, as that section read on December 31, 2009, or a business-related degree that includes at least 24 semester units, or equivalent quarter units, in accounting-related subjects, including, but not limited to accounting, financial reporting, auditing, and taxation, and has served within the last five years in a senior fiscal management position in a county, city or other public agency or a non-profit organization, dealing with similar fiscal responsibilities, including, but not limited to, public accounting or auditing responsibilities, for a continuous period of not less than three years. 
  • Has served as County Auditor, Assistant County Auditor, Chief Deputy County Auditor or an equivalent position for a continuous period of at least three years.
Application Process
Qualified individuals are invited to submit their applications and supplemental questionnaires via email to jobs@hrd.cccounty.us.
Please direct any questions to the Contra Costa Human Resources Department at (925) 655-2100 or jobs@hrd.cccounty.us
Timeline for Appointment:
02/12/2025        Application period closes @ 11:59pm 
02/20/2025  Applications Disclosure/Board of Supervisors Agenda Published for 02/25/2025
02/25/2025     Regular Meeting: Board of Supervisors Consider Applications for Interview
03/11/2025     Regular Meeting: Board of Supervisors Interview Applicants and Make Appointment
For additional details, please visit the County’s official website at www.contracosta.ca.gov

Department of Conservation

and Development is Hiring a Grading Inspector I

The Department of Conservation and Development (DCD) has five (5) divisions:


1) Current Planning

2) Policy Planning

3) Building Inspection Services

4) Business and Information Services

5) Housing and Community Improvement


The department of Conservation and Development (DCD) is seeking to fill one (1) vacancy in the classification of Grading Inspector I.


Under supervision, Grading Inspectors will advise customers on permitted uses of materials, installation methods, and code requirements; and will conduct field inspections of construction projects focusing on grading, drainage, erosion control, drainage structures, and building foundations.

To read the complete job description, please visit the website; www.cccounty.us/hr or to apply; https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/contracosta/jobs/4798758/grading-inspector-i

Planning Department Seeks Qualified Companies to provide Independent Registered Municipal Financial Services (IRMA)

The Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development (DCD) is Seeking Statement of Qualifications for vendors that can provide Independent Registered Municipal Financial Advisor Services .


The County and its related agencies are issuers of municipal securities. The County is currently soliciting Statement of Qualifications from qualified Independent Registered Municipal Financial Advisor Services to assist the County with its Multifamily Mortgage Revenue Bond Program.


For additional information and to view on the website click here.

Caldecott Tunnel Proposed Project Public Comment Period Open

Caltrans has proposed Rehabilitation and Ventilation Upgrade Projects for the Caldecott Tunnel Bores 1, 2, and 3. The projects aims to preserve the structural integrity of the tunnel, improve ventilation performance and fire-fighting operation response, and extend its service life.

 

The public comment period is from January 6, 2025, through February 6, 2025. All comments must be postmarked by February 6, 2024. The document can be accessed at this link: https://dot.ca.gov/caltrans-near-me/district-4/d4-projects/d4-caldecott-tunnel-upgrade.

Employment and Human Services Department Contracting Opportunities 
Currently, EHSD has the following open requests for proposals for services in Contra Costa County. Information on otheir open bids is available on their Contracting Opportunities page on ehsd.org.

Volunteer Opportunities

Are you interested in giving back to your community? Are you looking for ways to

make a difference? Please consider one of the following advisory bodies today!


Behavioral Health Board

One District 2 Consumer Seat, One District 2 Family Member Seat Available

Proposition 1, passed as a ballot measure in April 2024, included legislation mandating transformation of the public behavioral health system (Senate Bill 326: sections pertaining to the Behavioral Health Board). Provisions of SB 326 included implementation of an integrated Behavioral Health Board. This integrated advisory body is to include designated members of the community prepared to address community mental health and substance use treatment services.


The mandated functions of the Behavioral Health Board include to:

  • Review and evaluate the local public mental health system
  • Review and evaluate the local public substance use disorder treatment system
  • Advise the Board of Supervisors and the Behavioral Health Director on community mental health and substance use disorder services
  • Review and evaluate the community’s public behavioral health needs, services, facilities, and special problems where services are being provided
  • Review county agreements
  • Ensure citizen and professional involvement at all stages
  • Submit an annual report
  • Review and recommend appointment of the local director of behavioral health services
  • Review and comment on county’s performance outcome date
  • Assess the impact of the realignment of services
  • Conduct a public hearing on the draft three-year program and expenditure plan and annual updates at the close of the 30-day comment period required by subdivision.
  • Review adopted Behavioral Health Services Act plan and make recommendations to the local behavioral health agency.
  • Provide an annual report of written explanations to the local governing body and Department of Health Care Service

 

Contra Costa County Sustainability Commission

http://www.co.contra-costa.ca.us/6393/Sustainability-Commission

Expiring Seats 

To advise the Board of Supervisors and staff on successful implementation of the Climate Action Plan, including suggestions on how that work can be performed more efficiently and effectively; opportunities to realize equity and fairness across the diverse communities of Contra Costa County in sustainability programs that support the Climate Action Plan; how to better engage Contra Costa County residents and businesses on sustainability issues and implementation of the Climate Action Plan.


Measure X Community Advisory Board

Expiring Seats 

The Board of Supervisors placed the sales tax proposal on the November 2020 ballot before voters with the goal of providing local funds for local priorities. The tax was passed on November 3, 2020, and generates approximately $120 million each year to support a variety of county services. Measure X funds are for general purposes, and the Board of Supervisors directs how the funds should be used. The Board of Supervisors seeks input from the Measure X Community Advisory Board and the community about priorities and community needs. The ballot language for Measure X stated that the intent is “To keep Contra Costa’s regional hospital open and staffed; fund community health centers; provide timely fire and emergency response; support crucial safety-net services; invest in early childhood services; protect vulnerable populations; and for other essential county services.”


AB109 Community Advisory Board (CAB) on Public Safety Realignment 

Community Corrections Partnership, AB109 Community Advisory Board (CAB) was established by the Community Corrections Partnership (CCP) Executive Committee in December 2012 to provide input on services for the those individuals reentering our community from jails and prisons, identify their needs; assess implementation of the realignment plan; review data on realignment outcomes; advise the CCP on community engagement strategies; offer recommendations for ongoing reentry planning; advise County agencies regarding programs for implementation in the County; and encourage outcomes that are consistent with the County’s Reentry Strategic Plan. 


County Service Area P-2A Citizen Advisory Committee

(Blackhawk residents only)

Alternate Seat

The P-2A advises the Board of Supervisors on the needs of the Blackhawk community for extended police services which shall include, but not be limited to, enforcement of the State Vehicle Code, crime prevention, litter control, and other issues. Police Advisory Committee meetings are open to the public and are held on the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 6:00 PM, Blackhawk County Club, Lakeside Room, 599 Lakeside Drive, Danville, CA.


County Service Area P-5 Citizen Advisory Committee

(Roundhill Residents only)

Alternate Seat Available

Advise the Board of Supervisors on the needs of the Alamo community for extended police services in Roundhill.


Submit an Application Online here.


Find out more information about volunteering for an advisory body here https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/3418/Appointed-Bodies-Committees-Commissions