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Dear Friends and Neighbors,
I’d love to say happy Autumn, but the unseasonably warm 90-degree weather doesn't feel quite right. While it may not feel like sweater weather just yet, there's many exciting fall celebrations just around the corner--check them out below!
Additionally, save the date for our first District 1 Napa Valley Community Organizations Active in Disaster (COAD) Meet Your Neighbor event in the Napa Abajo neighborhood on Nov. 7th at the Napa Women's Club, more details in the flyer below. Are you interested in hosting a Meet Your Neighbor emergency preparedness event in your neighborhood? Please contact me, and we will make it happen!
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Lastly, in addition to Domestic Violence Awareness month, please view the District Attorney's recent newsletter debunking common myths and misconceptions about domestic violence HERE. As always, it is my pleasure to serve you. Please feel free to reach out to me and/or my Board Aide Yazmin Dominguez at (707) 299-1354; joelle.gallagher@countyofnapa.org; and yazmin.dominguez@countyofnapa.org with any County-related issue, concern or ideas.
Sincerely,
Joelle
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Board Actions
Napa County Board of Supervisors Receive a Presentation regarding the ReCoverCA Housing Program
On September 10, the Board received a presentation regarding the ReCoverCA
Housing Program, presented by Rural County Representatives of California
affiliate Golden State Finance Authority. This initiative was designed to provide homebuyer assistance specifically to low-to-moderate income households that found themselves in high fire hazard severity zones during the devastating 2018 and 2020 California wildfires. The impact of these wildfires was profound, affecting many lives and communities, and the ReCoverCA Homebuyer Assistance Program stands as a support for those in need.
More information, click HERE.
Napa County Board of Supervisors Adopted New Omnibus Housing Ordinance
On September 24th, the Board of Supervisors adopted an ordinance, known as the "Omnibus Housing Ordinance", which amends the Napa County code to our recently certified Housing Element for the General Plan. This represents a significant leap towards achieving our 2023-2031 Housing Element goals; by aligning our regulations with State Housing Law, this ordinance enhances our ability to respond to housing needs effectively, making it easier to navigate the approval processes for various housing developments. A few key components of the ordinance include:
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Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs): Simplifying rules for construction, including updated height, parking, and development standards.
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Multiple-Family Housing: Encouraging higher-density housing in priority areas without lengthy approval processes.
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Transitional and Supportive Housing: Expanded definitions and streamlined approval for facilities offering temporary and long-term housing to vulnerable populations.
More information, click HERE.
Napa County Board of Supervisors Receive a Presentation regarding Bicycle Connectivity Priorities
On September 24, the Board received a presentation from the Napa County Bicycle Coalition about Bicycle Connectivity Priorities. A few priorities identified for Napa County include the full completion of the Vine Trail, and improvements to the Silverado Trail, Monticello Rd, Old Howell Mountain Rd, Oak Knoll Ave, and Rutherford Rd/Conn Creek.
More information, click HERE.
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Napa County to Receive Digital Equity Leadership Grant to Help Close the Digital Divide
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We are thrilled to announce that Napa County has been awarded a $20,000 Digital Equity Leadership Grant from the California Emerging Technology Fund (CETF), marking a significant step forward in our commitment to bridging the Digital Divide. This grant is a vital part of the Local Government Best Practices Check List Project, aimed at accelerating the adoption of innovative policies and practices that promote digital equity for all residents. As one of only 12 counties and 24 cities selected for this honor, Napa County recognizes the profound impact this initiative can have on enhancing community engagement and ensuring that every resident has access to the digital resources they need.
More information, click HERE.
| CareerPoint Napa is Open! | |
CareerPoint Napa celebrated its reopening of the Napa America's Job Center of California located at the Napa County Health & Human Services Agency.
This resource center serves as a one-stop destination for all job-related inquiries and guidance. They welcome individuals of all levels of experience, whether you are just starting your career journey or are an experienced professional. CareerPoint Napa is equipped with invaluable resources, including:
- a professional wardrobe lending closet
- engaging workshops
- dynamic job fairs
I extend a heartfelt thank you to the Workforce Alliance of the North Bay, Napa County Health and Human Services, and all partners who played a vital role in making this vision a reality. I encourage you to visit their new site - 2751 Napa Valley Corporate Drive, Building A #106, Napa, CA 94558. More information HERE.
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Housing: A Vital Component for
Mental Health Recovery
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Housing is a vital component for mental health recovery. When this basic need is not met, people with serious mental health conditions cycle in and out of homelessness, jails, shelters, and hospitals. There are many housing needs, from long term residential to transitional supportive housing to permanent housing types that can include behavioral and social support services.
You are invited to join the Napa County Behavioral Health Board on Wednesday, October 9 to learn about the supportive housing services of Fresh Start and housing and treatment options provided by the Progress Foundation.
Wednesday, October 9
4:00 pm
Napa County Health & Human Services
2751 Napa Valley Corporate Dr.
Building A, 1st floor
Napa, CA 94558
More information, click HERE.
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Public Invited to Observe All Phases of November 5, 2024 Presidential Election
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The Napa County Election Division invites the public, media, members of the Grand Jury, political party organizations and anyone interested in the election process to observe all aspects of the November 5, 2024, Presidential Election with logic and accuracy testing.
There are several opportunities to observe the election process, including:
- October 18: Vote-by-mail ballot processing starts at 8:30 a.m. at the Napa County Election Division
- Oct. 26: Counting of ballots will begin at 9 a.m. and continue through Election Day on Nov. 5 at the Napa County Election Division central office. Results from processed vote-by-mail ballots will be available shortly after 8 p.m. on Election Day. Counting will resume on Friday, Nov. 8 and continue through certification of the election.
For more information, click HERE or watch the video below.
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Napa County Walk and Roll to School Day
Walk and Roll to School Day (WRSD) is an international event that encourages students and families to walk, bike, or roll to school as part of an active, healthy lifestyle. WRSD promotes forming healthy habits, improving air quality and traffic safety around school zones, and building community.
Wednesday, October 9
More information, click HERE.
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Napa City Fire Department Fire & Life Safety Day Open House
Come learn about fire safety and meet your Napa City firefighters!
Visit booths staffed by local health and safety service providers to learn how to keep your family healthy, safe, and prepared for emergencies. Fun activies, and games for the family!
Saturday, October 12
10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Napa City Fire Station 1
930 Seminary Street
Napa, California 94558
More information, click HERE.
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Children's Business Fair
The Children's Business Fair is an excellent opportunity to discover unique, handcrafted gifts and products made by these young entrepreneurs. Come to the fair, shop with the kids, and make their entrepreneurial dreams come true!
Saturday, October 12
10:00 am - 1:00 pm
Boys & Girls Club of Napa Valley
1515 Pueblo Ave
Napa, CA 94558
More information, click HERE.
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Food & Health Fair
Cope Family Center is hosting a Food and Health Fair in collaboration with Adventist Health St. Helena. Individuals can complete mammograms, flu shots, and health assessment screenings on site, and take fresh produce home!
Thursday, October 24
4:00 pm - 5:30 pm
Cope Family Center
707 Randolph St
Napa, CA 94558
More information, click HERE.
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Napa Dia de los Muertos
Napa Dia de los Muertos aims to create a family-friendly event where our diverse Napa community feels seen and heard through art, tradition, music, dance, and food; and where the spirit of Dia de los Muertos is driven by cultural awareness, understanding, and acceptance.
Saturday, November 2
3:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Veteran's Memorial Park on Third & Main St.
Downtown Napa
More information, click HERE.
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The Napa Opioid Safety Coalition invites you to United Against Fentanyl: An Opioid Awareness Rally & Memorial. Learn about the Napa countywide fentanyl awareness campaign, honor those who lost their life to the crisis, and learn how to get involved and save a life. Hear from community leaders, advocates, and those personally affected by illicit fentanyl, followed by a short unity walk. A vigil with a moment of silence and a memorial to remember those we've lost to opioid poisoning and overdose will take place after the walk. Bring a photo of a loved one, candles will be distributed.
Resources will be available to learn how to stay safe and how to take action. Live Spanish translation and rally signs will be available.
Wednesday, October 23
5:00 pm - 6:45 pm
Veteran's Memorial Park on Third & Main St.
Downtown Napa
More information, click HERE.
| Hope Beyond Darkness: Uniting for Suicide Prevention | |
I attended the Hope Beyond Darkness: Uniting for Suicide Prevention conference, the inaugural event of its kind in Napa County, was an immensely rewarding. I felt honored to hear the powerful keynote speech delivered by suicide survivor Candace Washington, whose courage and resilience serve as a beacon of hope for many. The gathering of numerous nonprofit and County organizations demonstrated collaboration and commitment to fostering connections and providing essential resources for suicide prevention.
I encourage you to listen to the keynote speech below, as it reflects our collective dedication to creating a supportive and safe environment for all those affected by mental health challenges.
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Napa County SHARE
Program
| SHARE helps Napa County low-income older adults who are having trouble paying their rent by giving up to $800 each month to help participants stay in their homes. Find out if you qualify HERE. | |
Community Members Appointed
Congratulations to the following community members who were recently appointed:
Napa County Housing Commission
Bay Area Toll Authority Regional Measure 3 Independent Oversight Committee
Napa County Commission on Aging
Napa Valley Transportation Authority (NVTA) Active Transportation Advisory Committee (ATAC)
- Jason B. Dominici
- Caitlin Ochoa-Llamas
Napa County Regional Parks and Open Spaces District.
- Kimberly Richard
- Evelyn Denzin
- Barry Christian
Thank you for your service!
Click HERE to learn about Napa County Boards and Commissions.
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We are back in full swing as we enter the fall season! From supporting local initiatives to celebrating achievements, we had the opportunity to honor remarkable individuals/groups and their important work. Here are some of the highlights!
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The Michael Leonardi Foundation Music + Awareness Concert was a powerful reminder of ongoing efforts to raise awareness about the pressing dangers of fentanyl poisoning, reinforcing our focus on public health and safety.
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Participated at the Napa-Solano Central Labor Council Labor Day Breakfast served as a heartfelt tribute to the hardworking individuals who are the backbone of our community, our workforce.
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Attended Evening at the Ruins, a fundraiser for the American Canyon Parks and Recreation Foundation.
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Celebrated CareerPoint Napa grand reopening of the Napa America’s Job Center of California at the Napa County Health & Human Services Agency! This resource center serves are a one-stop destination for all job-related inquiries and guidance.
- Honored the memory of those lost during the 9/11 attacks at the 9/11 Memorial Garden in the City of Napa.
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Attended the Mentis appreciation breakfast, an organization committed to enhancing mental health services.
- Attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Soscol Junction Interchange Project, 13 years in the making! Not only will this alleviate traffic congestion, but will make our roads safer for motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists alike.
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Walked the Napa Valley Ride, Walk & Roll to Cure ALS—a heartfelt event to raise awareness and research dollars to find a cure. Participated with “Team Lionheart” as my way of supporting my dear friend Howard Mattfield who is fighting ALS, and his incredible group of family and friends including his wife Mandy Page, and daughters Savannah and Tessa.
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Attended the Hands Across the Valley event, a longtime, annual event to combat hunger in Napa County.
- Presented to the California Retired Teachers Association, where I shared some of the priority work that is happening at the County.
- Attended the Blue Oak Middle School Dedication Ceremony.
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Yazmin joined the opening of the River Trail Village at Napa Valley College—to celebrate education and student housing in Napa.
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Attended the Napa Sierra Club’s Autumn outreach event, discussed land-use issues towards a path to a greener future.
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Celebrated the ribbon-cutting for the Napa Sanitation District Groundbreaking Linear Generator—the first of its kind—which converts renewable biogas from our wastewater treatment plant into electricity for onsite use, significantly reducing energy costs and enhancing our resilience.
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Yazmin attended the Napa County Behavioral Health Services Recovery Resource Fair, where many organizations came together to provide vital recovery resources for those battling alcohol and drug challenges.
- Spoke and walked at the inaugural Napa Day Against Hate.
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