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Board of Supervisors Celebrates AANHPI Heritage Month at May 12th Board Meeting
This week the Board of Supervisors recognized Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month, honoring the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of AANHPI communities throughout Contra Costa County and beyond.
Supervisors highlighted the importance of celebrating the diversity that strengthens our region. Community leaders and representatives were invited to share reflections on heritage, representation, and the value of cultural awareness in public service.
The recognition serves as a reminder of the many ways our AANHPI communities continue to shape the county’s civic, economic, and cultural life.
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Board of Supervisors pictured with participants at the Board’s AANHPI event held on Tuesday, celebrating and recognizing the contributions of the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander community.
To watch the BOS meeting in in its entirety, including the AANHPI
event visit HERE.
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Board of Supervisors Appoints Aaron McAlister to Lead ConFire
On Tuesday the Board of Supervisors, acting in their capacity as the Contra Costa Fire Protection District (ConFire) Board of Directors, appointed Aaron McAlister the new Fire Chief.
Chief McAlister has served ConFire since 2016 and most recently served as Deputy Fire Chief of Administration, overseeing Communications/Fire Dispatch, Information Systems, Support Services, Finance, and Human Resources. Prior to that, he served as Assistant Fire Chief and played a key role in strengthening the District’s operational readiness, facilities, staffing, and regional coordination.
Chief McAlister helped lead major district advancements, including the annexation of the East Contra Costa and Rodeo-Hercules fire districts and the service contract with the City of Pinole. He also supported the expansion of firefighting resources, staffing, facilities, and emergency services, while advancing wildfire mitigation efforts and helping establish more than 40 Firewise communities.
The former Chief, Lewis Broschard, retired in March after more than 30 years in fire service, including 18 years with Con Fire.
ConFire provides fire protection and emergency medical services to more than 790,000 residents across 13 cities and 11 unincorporated communities throughout Contra Costa County.
| | Supervisors Scales-Preston, Carlson, Burgis, and Andersen proudly welcome Aaron McAlister as the newly appointed Fire Chief of the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District. | | |
Building the Future Together: Supervisor Andersen Joins East Bay Economic Outlook Gathering
The East Bay Economic Development Alliance (East Bay EDA) hosted its 2026 Economic Outlook & Annual Membership Meeting this week, bringing together regional leaders, business representatives, and community stakeholders to discuss the economic future of the East Bay and broader Bay Area region. Supervisor Andersen, who serves as the Chair of East Bay EDA, provided a brief overview of their intiatives.
A key highlight of the program was a dynamic panel discussion featuring regional development and real estate leaders. Panelists included Alex Mehran Jr., Riaz Taplin, and facilitator Ed Del Beccaro. The discussion offered valuable perspectives on commercial real estate trends, economic development opportunities, and the evolving needs of East Bay communities.
Economist Alexander Quinn, a Senior Director for Northern California Research for Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL) provided an inciteful economic update for the region.
The annual gathering provided timely insight into emerging economic trends and underscored the importance of strong partnerships between local government, private industry, and community organizations in supporting a resilient regional economy. Supervisor Andersen appreciated the opportunity to connect with fellow leaders and reaffirm Contra Costa County’s commitment to fostering economic opportunity for residents and businesses alike.
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Pictured from left, Monica Nino, Contra Costa County Administrator, Sharon Jenkins, Director of Government Affairs and External Relations at John Muir Health, Stephen Baiter, Executive Director at East Bay Economic Development Alliance, Supervisor Andersen, Alex Mehran Jr., President and CEO at Bishop Ranch by Sunset Development Company, and Lara Potter,
Oakland Roots & Soul, Chief Revenue Officer.
Click here, to learn more about East Bay Economic Development Alliance
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Uniting in Heritage: APAPA Tri-Valley Hosts Annual Celebration
Supervisor Andersen attended the Asian Pacific Islander American Public Affairs Association (APAPA) Tri-Valley Annual Asian Heritage Celebration on Saturday, May 9th, joining community members, leaders, and partners in honoring the rich cultural contributions of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities.
The celebration featured outstanding cultural performances, community recognition, and opportunities to highlight the importance of civic engagement and representation. Supervisor Andersen’s participation underscored the County’s ongoing commitment to inclusion, diversity, and strengthening community partnerships across the region.
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Supervisor Andersen joined local and state delegates, APAPA board members, and performers to enjoy Saturday's performances.
Click here, to learn more about APAPA and their community engagement.
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Contra Costa County Celebrates New Chapter in
Youth Rehabilitation with Juvenile Hall Ribbon Cutting
This week the Contra Costa County Probation Department celebrated the Grand Opening of the Family Engagement Courtyard at the John A. Davis Juvenile Hall in Martinez, marking an important investment in youth services, rehabilitation, and community safety.
The event highlighted ongoing efforts to create supportive spaces and programs that help justice-involved youth access education, counseling, mentorship, family reunification, and more toward long-term success. County leaders, community partners, and Probation staff gathered to recognize the continued commitment to positive youth development and restorative approaches within Contra Costa County.
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Contra Costa County Probation Officer, Esa Ehmen-Krause is joined by Probation Staff to celebrate the Grand Opening of the Family Engagement Courtyard at Juvenile Hall.
Click here, to learn more about Contra Costa County's Probation Department and their mission and commitment to serving the community.
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Discovery Counseling Center Continues 50-Year Legacy of Care
Last Friday Supervisor Andersen attended a community event supporting the Discovery Counseling Center (DCC), a community-based nonprofit organization that has served the San Ramon Valley for more than 50 years.
The event raised funds for and highlighted the organization’s ongoing commitment to providing accessible mental health services, counseling programs, and vital support resources to individuals and families throughout the community.
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Supervisor Andersen (center) with DCC Board Member Kathy Chiverton and Jill Purcell, Vice Chair of the DCC Executive Board.
To learn more about Discovery Counseling Center and the services they provide to the community visit DiscoveryCtr.net.
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Board of Supervisors Honors Honors Ken Abrams for his Years of Service with the Danville Girls Chorus
After an extraordinary 34 years of inspiring young singers and shaping the local choral community, Danville Girls Chorus Artistic Director Ken Abrams retired from his longtime leadership role. Since joining the chorus in 1992, Abrams helped grow the organization into a well-respected community youth choir program known for musical excellence, teamwork, and mentorship.
In addition to leading the Danville Girls Chorus, Abrams spent 36 years as the beloved choral director at San Ramon Valley High School and earned numerous honors throughout his career, including recognition as “Choral Director of the Year” by the California Choral Directors Association in 2022. His dedication, passion, and lasting impact on generations of young performers leave behind a remarkable legacy in the San Ramon Valley arts community.
Supervisor Andersen, joined by Chief of Staff Jennifer Quallick, presented Abrams with a proclamation from the Board of Supervisors thanking him for his outstanding work.
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Supervisor Andersen, pictured with her Chief of Staff, Jennifer Quallick, presented Ken Abrams with a proclamation recognizing his 34 years of dedicated service and lasting contributions to the community through music and mentorship.
To learn more about The Danville Girls Chorus (DGC) visit DGC.org.
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Celebrating Small Business Month
May is Small Business Month, and the East Bay has a wide range of resources available to help entrepreneurs start, grow, and strengthen their businesses. Throughout the month, the East Bay Small Business Development Center offers no-cost or low-cost workshops, advising sessions, and networking events designed to support business owners at every stage.
Topics often include access to capital, marketing strategies, business planning, and navigating permitting and compliance requirements. These programs provide practical tools and one-on-one guidance to help local businesses remain competitive and resilient in a changing economy.
Business owners are encouraged to take advantage of these opportunities and connect with regional experts and peers.
Visit CalOSBA for statewide small business resources and opportunities.
Visit East Bay EDA for networking and small business resources.
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Caring for Community: Choice in Aging Inspires Exchange Club
This week’s Exchange Club of San Ramon Valley welcomed Debbie Toth, President and CEO of Choice in Aging, as the featured speaker. Debbie shared insights into the organization’s mission to support independence, dignity, and quality of life for older adults and individuals with disabilities throughout Contra Costa County.
She highlighted a range of programs, including adult day services, caregiver support, and in-home assistance designed to help individuals remain safely in their homes and meaningfully engage in their communities. Her presentation underscored the growing need for wraparound services as the population ages, as well as the importance of partnerships between nonprofits, local agencies, and community organizations.
The Exchange Club expressed appreciation for Debbie’s leadership and the impactful work of Choice in Aging in strengthening the region’s social support network and improving quality of life for vulnerable residents.
| | Karen Stepper, Danville Town Councilmember; Tim White, Exchange Club President; Debbie Toth, Choice in Aging President and CEO; Carol Mascali, Supervisor Andersen's District Representative. | | |
Homelessness 101: Community Awareness Session
Join Contra Costa Health, Housing and Homeless Services for an engaging and informative session designed for anyone curious about the complex issue of homelessness in Contra Costa. Whether you are a concerned community member, have ideas for service programs, or are seeking services yourself, this presentation is for you!
Homelessness 101
Tuesday, June 16th
6 - 7:30 PM
Danville Library, 400 Front Street
Highlights:
- Key data and trends on homelessness
- Overview of available services
- Community response initiatives
- Opportunities for involvement
- Interactive Q&A session
- Snacks provided!
Presenter: Jaime Jenett, MPH, Community Engagement Specialist for Contra Costa Health, Housing and Homeless Services
Questions or want to have a Homelessness 101 session at your site? Email contracostacoc@cchealth.org.
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Naloxone Stand Box Locations in District 2
Naloxone is Free, Safe, Easy to use, and
Can Save a Life
Free naloxone access points are now available throughout Contra Costa County, helping ensure that residents can more easily obtain this life-saving medication when needed.
Two Locations in District 2:
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Get Ready to Vote - June 2nd
Election Information
Ballots for the June 2nd Statewide Direct Primary Election have been sent to all registered Contra Costa County voters. If you have not received your ballot by May 18th, contact the Elections Office at 925-335-7800 or ballot@vote.cccounty.us.
All registered voters will receive a vote-by-mail ballot with prepaid postage. Ballots can be returned by mail, dropped at an official drop box, or turned in at a voting location. To be counted, mailed ballots must be postmarked by Election Day and received within 7 days of the postmark.
Prefer to vote in person? You can do so at early voting sites or on Election Day. You can also register or update your registration online by May 18th, or in person after May 18th.
Voters can find a list of convenient drop-box locations and early voting locations by clicking June 2nd Voting locations. Ballots must be dropped off no later than 8 PM on Election Day.
Ballot tracking is a service provided by the Secretary of State that will send voters a notice about their ballot, including when it is mailed, received, and counted. Voters can know where their ballot is every step of the way at Where's my ballot.
For more information about the June 2nd Primary Election, go to ContraCostaVote.gov.
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90 Years Strong: CCWD Celebrates a
Milestone in Water Service
Supervisor Andersen's Chief of Staff, Jennifer Quallick joined the Contra Costa Water District 90th Anniversary Open House on Saturday, May 9th, celebrating nine decades of providing reliable water service to the region.
The event brought together community members, partners, and local leaders to recognize CCWD’s history and their ongoing commitment to water reliability, conservation, and infrastructure investment across Contra Costa County.
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Adding to the celebration, CCWD’s beloved mascot Dewey was on hand to greet attendees, pose for photos, and help bring a fun and engaging spirit to the milestone event.
Pictured left are Jennifer Quallick, Chief of Staff to Supervisor Andersen and Director of Ironhouse Sanitary District, Dawn Morrow.
| | | To learn more about Contra Costa Water District and their mission to provide a reliable supply of high quality water visit HERE. | | |
Family Justice Center's Personal Safety Skills Online Training
Learn Skills and strategies to take charge of your safety to avid harm, including assault, violence and abuse. These skills help to build strong, safe relationships of all kinds.
| | Skills include recognizing common patterns of attack, quickly assessing situations and responding effectively, managing emotional triggers under pressure, developing safety plans for potentially dangerous circumstances, and advocating assertively and persistently for the help and support needed. | | |
Summer Bike Challenge
Explore your town from the seat of a bike!
Looking for free summertime activities, fun for the whole family? Check out 511 CCTA’s Summer Bike Challenge: a no-cost and non-competitive biking program for people of all ages.
Each Contra Costa city has its own unique gameboard filled with bikeable destinations. Simply ride to each location and cross off the squares as you go – like BINGO! Plus, weekly Bonus Challenges will send you on extra rides to capture new Challenge Themes with chances to win $20 gift cards. 10 winners every week!
Ready to roll? Visit 511.ccta.ca to download your gameboard and get started.
511 CCTA is a program of the Contra Costa Transportation Authority
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Contra Costa Clean Water Program Launches Community Survey
The Contra Costa Clean Water Program has launched a short, countywide survey to learn what residents think about local environmental issues.
The survey takes about five minutes and will help the agency better understand what people know about stormwater systems, infrastructure, and climate change. Results will guide future outreach and education efforts.
All residents, homeowners, renters, and business owners, are encouraged to participate. The goal is to hear from people across all five Supervisorial Districts. The survey is available in English and Spanish.
Residents can take the survey online at HERE.
For more information about the survey or the Contra Costa Clean Water Program, please visit cccleanwater.org.
| | To visit a park, trail and to find things to do in one of our East Bay Regional Parks visit EBParks.org. | | |
District 2 Volunteer Opportunity
Behavioral Health Board
One District 2 Family Member Seat Available
Proposition 1, passed in April 2024, included legislation mandating transformation of the public behavioral health system. 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, the local public substance use disorder treatment system, the community’s public behavioral health needs, services, facilities, and special problems where services are being provided
- Advise the Board of Supervisors and the Behavioral Health Director on community mental health and substance use disorder services.
- Review county agreements, adopted Behavioral Health Services Act plan and make recommendations to the local behavioral health agency.
- 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.
- Provide an annual report of written explanations to the local governing body and Department of Health Care Service.
Submit an Application.
Click here for information on volunteering for an advisory board.
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County Wide Volunteer Opportunity
Juvenile Justice Coordinating Council
The Juvenile Justice Coordinating Council (JJCC) is a multi-agency advisory body that contributes to the development and implementation of a countywide juvenile justice plan. It is composed of several critical parts: an assessment of existing law enforcement, probation, education, mental health, health, social services, drugs, alcohol, and youth resources, which specifically target both at-promise, as well as system involved youth, and their families.
The JJCC will also coordinate the work of governmental and non-governmental organizations engaged in activities designed to reduce the incidence of juvenile crime and delinquency in the greater community. Further, the JJCC will develop information and intelligence sharing systems to ensure county actions are fully coordinated and equipped to provide data and appropriate outcome measures.
There is one At Large Seat and one Youth Representative Seat available. Applicants must either live or work in Contra Costa County. Applications are due by 5PM on Monday, July 6th, Interviews will be either in person, or via zoom, at the July 20th Public Protection Committee.
Click here to submit an Application.
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