Contra Costa County Celebrates International Women’s Day | | |
This week the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors hosted its first International Women’s Day Celebration. Former Supervisor Sunne McPeak delivered a keynote on leadership and public service, and the Commission for Women and Girls honored the National Council of Negro Women (Alameda Section). President Aisha Williams accepted the award on behalf of the organization.
Each Supervisor nominated an honoree from their District. Supervisor Andersen selected Kathy Chiverton, recognizing her for her tremendous contributions to the community including leading the San Ramon Valley Mental Health Coalition, serving on the Measure X Community Advisory Body, the San Ramon Valley Diversity Coalition, Leadership San Ramon Valley Board, San Ramon Valley Rotary, San Ramon Valley Education Foundation, serving as the past Executive Director of Discovery Counseling Center, past Executive Director of the San Ramon Valley YMCA, and Chief of Staff to former County Supervisors Millie Greenberg and Donna Gerber. You can read the full resolution honoring Kathy HERE.
Honorees from other Districts included: Patricia Durham, District 1; Janet Frazier & Debbie Toth, District 3; Cathy McRoberts, District 4; and Nancy Parent, District 5.
The celebration highlighted the vital role women play in shaping stronger, more vibrant communities across Contra Costa County and marked the beginning of what organizers hope will become an annual tradition honoring women’s leadership and service.
To stay up to date on county events visit contracosta.ca.gov.
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Celebrating Carol Singer as Lafayette's Citizen of the Year
Supervisor Andersen joined community members and local leaders in celebrating the Lafayette Chamber’s Citizen of the Year, honoring Carol Singer for her exceptional service and dedication to the Lafayette community.
Hosted by the Lafayette Chamber of Commerce, the event highlighted Carol’s years of volunteerism and civic leadership that have made a lasting impact on residents and local initiatives. Known for her tireless advocacy, collaborative spirit, and deep commitment to strengthening community connections, Carol has played a key role in supporting local programs and bringing people together around causes that matter most to Lafayette.
Supervisor Andersen’s presence underscored the County’s appreciation for community champions whose efforts strengthen neighborhoods and enhance quality of life across Contra Costa County.
| | Supervisor Andersen pictured with Lafayette Chamber of Commerce 2026 Citizen of the Year, Carol Singer. | | |
Voices of Impact: Candace Andersen Shares the Stage
with Trailblazers
Supervisor Andersen was recently honored to serve on a panel of Trailblazing Women for the local chapter Delta Kappa Gamma, an organization dedicated to empowering women educators through scholarships, networking, and leadership opportunities.
Alongside panelists Carmen Curtis and Carol Rowley, Supervisor Andersen shared insights from their leadership and volunteer experiences, highlighting the moments that enhanced their community impact. The event also featured Sandy Budde, moderator of the panel.
| | Supervisor Andersen pictured with the evenings panelists, Carmen Curtis, Sandy Budde and Carol Rowley. | To learn more about Delta Kappa Gamma visit HERE. | | |
New Traffic Signal Coming to Mt. Diablo Scenic Boulevard
& Diablo/Blackhawk Road
Construction is currently underway at the intersection of Mt. Diablo Scenic Boulevard and Diablo/Blackhawk Road, where Contra Costa County Public Works is installing a new traffic signal.
In partnership with Davidon Homes, DeSilva Gates, and MCH, work is scheduled Monday through Friday, from 7 AM to 5 PM. The project is expected to be completed by June 3rd.
| | To read full Press Release visit HERE. | |
Court Seeks Public Input Through Strategic Plan Survey
The Contra Costa County Superior Court is inviting residents, court users, and community organizations to share their feedback through a public online survey to help shape the Court’s 2027–2029 Strategic Plan.
The survey will be available March 9th through March 20th and will gather input on topics such as court operations, jury service, and access to court services. Feedback from the community plays an important role in helping the Court identify priorities and set goals for improving public service.
All residents and court users in Contra Costa County are encouraged to participate and share their experiences to help strengthen transparency, efficiency, and access to justice.
To participate in the survey visit HERE.
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Livorna Park Remodel
Project Update
The Livorna Park remodel is moving forward, with the design currently at 65% completion. Based on recent updates from the project team and Stantec, here is what the community can expect as we transition from planning to construction:
- Work is anticipated to begin shortly after the summer concert series concludes to avoid disrupting community events.
- Once started, construction is expected to take approximately 10-12 months to complete.
- The updated layout features artificial turf mounds to provide a durable and ADA-accessible play surface.
- These mounds offer consistent impact absorption for children and are designed to withstand high-traffic use without the maintenance required for natural grass.
- The remodel focuses on creating an upgraded, multi-generational space with improved site circulation and new play equipment.
- Updated project plans and design renderings are being posted to the Alamo community website today for public viewing.
For additional information on the Livorna Park Revitatlization Project visit HERE.
| | Family Justice Center Presents International Women's Day! | | To learn more about the Family Justice Center and their programs visit HERE. | |
Plumbers & Steamfitters Apprenticeship Applications Available
Plumbers Local 159 was chartered into the United Association on April 3rd, 1915 in Martinez, California. Almost 100 years later, the offices are still headquartered in Martinez, which include a union hiring hall, Journeyman and Apprentice Training facility and assembly hall. With over 500 members and over 100 union contractors, they provide skilled plumbers, steamfitters, HVAC Refrigeration technicians and service plumbers for work in Contra Costa County and beyond.
Plumbing, Steamfitting, and Welding Apprenticeship Application period is open from March 30th through April 10th.
For more information, visit UA Local 159.
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Girls Empowerment Camp Ignites
Confidence and Leadership
The Contra Costa County Fire Protection District will host its Girls Empowerment Camp May 2nd-3rd, giving young women the opportunity to explore careers in the fire service while building confidence, teamwork, and leadership skills.
Participants spend the day learning directly from firefighters and first responders, gaining hands-on experience with equipment, rescue techniques, and emergency response training. The camp also provides a chance for participants to hear personal stories from women currently serving in the fire service, offering valuable insight into the profession and the many career paths within public safety.
Programs like this help inspire the next generation of leaders by encouraging young women across Contra Costa County to consider careers in firefighting and emergency services while strengthening their sense of empowerment and community connection.
To learn more about Girls Empowerment Camp visit HERE.
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Help Shape Our Neighborhood Trees
Hot sidewalks? Bare bus stops? Missing shade in parks? Contra Costa County is creating a Neighborhood Tree Plan to plant, care for, and protect trees where they are needed most.
Please take this short Community Survey to share your ideas and help make our neighborhoods cooler, healthier, and more welcoming for generations to come. No experience needed; your voice matters!
Take the survey now at Tree Survey.
To learn more about Sustainable Contra Costa visit HERE.
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Contra Costa Library Local History Connection
Contra Costa Library is proud to now feature historical materials related to Contra Costa County, curated by the Library in partnership with local historical societies, museums, and community organizations. The collection includes photographs, artwork and artifacts, newspapers and clippings, documents, maps, and personal papers that help tell the story of our county’s past.
To explore these materials, visit the Digital Resources page at ccclib.org and access the collection online.
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Congressional Art Competition
Each year, Congressman DeSaulnier hosts the 10th Congressional District High School Art Competition and Exhibition. The exhibition is a judged art show, open to high school students from public and private schools in the Tenth Congressional District of California, as well as high school students home-schooled within the district.
The exhibition will be displayed publicly and will culminate in a closing awards event. The winning artwork of our district's competition will be displayed for one year in the U.S. Capitol. The exhibit in Washington will include the winning artwork from all participating districts from around the country. Additionally, the winner will receive two round-trip airline tickets to join the exhibition in Washington, D.C. The winning artwork will also be featured on House.gov's Congressional Art Competition page.
Submissions will be accepted until April 9th at 5:00 PM PT
For more information and the rules, visit Congressman DeSaulnier.
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Delineator Replacement Work on
San Pablo Dam Road
The Contra Costa County Public Works Department will replace delineators to enhance safety on San Pablo Dam Road, between Tri Lane and Wildcat Canyon Road. The work will occur between Monday, March 23rd through Thursday, March 26th, between 8am- 3:30pm.
The work will be scheduled to minimize impacts to commute traffic. Message boards will be posted to advise drivers of the scheduled work. A pilot car will be used to direct traffic through the work area. Drivers can expect delays of 10-15 minutes and are encouraged to use alternative routes.
| To read the full Press Release visit HERE. | |
Blackhawk Plaza FAQ's
Residents may be aware of ongoing lawsuits, foreclosure proceedings, and financial challenges involving Blackhawk Plaza. The County is not a party to these legal matters and does not have the legal standing to participate in the litigation.
On February 3, 2026, a judge in Orange County Superior Court appointed a receiver to oversee operations at Blackhawk Plaza, an encouraging and important step forward. The receiver’s role is to stabilize the property’s day-to-day operations while protecting and enhancing its long-term value.
The Receiver’s team has already hired a new property management and security firm. They are meeting with tenants and currently evaluating the physical and financial condition of the property, assessing deferred maintenance (including ordering the parts needed to repair the fountains), and implementing steps to preserve and maximize the property's value.
On March 18, 2026 the owners of Blackhawk Plaza, the Ramanujan Group LLC, filed for bankruptcy. It is assumed, but not certain that the Bankruptcy Court will allow the Receiver to continue in this role.
To date, the County has not received any applications to build housing or otherwise redevelop Blackhawk Plaza. It is highly unlikely that this would occur when lawsuits are pending and the property is under the control of the Receiver.
However, if we do receive an application or learn of a change in ownership, we will provide updates in these FAQ’s.
You can view Blackhawk FAQ's HERE.
For a calendar of upcoming events at the Plaza visit HERE.
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Contra Costa County Probation Department
is Hiring!
The Contra Costa County Probation Department is now accepting applications for the classifications of Deputy Probation Officer I and Deputy Probation Officer II.
Mission:
An unwavering commitment to justice, even in the face of adversity, an ethical application of the law, and a proven approach to rehabilitation.
Vision:
A talented Probation team working collaboratively to create opportunities for those we serve to experience a positive outcome that strengthens the individual and makes the community safe.
Values:
Integrity | Equity | Excellence
If you are interested in joining the Probation Team, and would like more information, click on these links for more information:
Deputy Probation Officer I and Deputy Probation Officer II.
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FREE Tax Help through United Way Bay Area!
Tax season is here, and free help is available for those who need it. Community members can receive FREE tax preparation assistance from trained volunteers at locations throughout the Bay Area. These services help ensure you claim valuable tax credits such as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Child Tax Credit, which can significantly increase your refund.
Appointments are available in person, and many residents may also qualify to file their taxes online for free.
To schedule an appointment at a nearby location, call 211 or visit United Way Bay Area to learn more and find a site near you. Taking advantage of this free service can save money on tax preparation and help ensure your return is filed accurately.
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FREE VIRTUAL HOME & WORM COMPOSTING WORKSHOPS
The Contra Costa County Department of Conservation & Development invite you to join their free virtual composting workshops to learn how to reduce waste and create nutrient-rich compost at home.
All residents are welcome to join any or all of the virtual workshops. Subjects include home composting as well as how to start and maintain a worm bin.
2026 Workshop Schedule
March 28 - Home Composting
May 2 - Vermicomposting (Worm Composting)
October 24 - Home Composting
December 5 - Vermicomposting (Worm Composting)
Workshops will be held live on Zoom. A Zoom link will be sent the week before the event.
Click the desired workshop date above to register via Eventbrite
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County Wide Volunteer Opportunities
Civil Grand Jury
Contra Costa County Superior Court is now accepting applications for Civil Grand Jury service for FY 26-27. The Civil Grand Jury is made up of 19 members who serve for one year, July through June, to monitor, review and report on city and county governments, special districts, and school districts.
Every effort is made to ensure that the Grand Jury reflects the makeup of the residents of the county. Individuals selected for service will be expected to be available from June 15th to June 18th and June 22nd to June 26th to attend an orientation where they will meet with department heads, become familiar with their colleagues, learn about juror responsibilities and procedures, and select committees on which they will serve. Grand jurors must be United State citizens, 18 years of age or older, who have been a resident of Contra Costa County for at least one year prior to selection. Citizens who work should apply only if they can be released from their jobs to perform their jury duties. Deadline to Submit is April 3rd. Grand Jury Application.
Submit an Application.
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