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Dear Neighbors,
As the 2024 harvest season comes to a close, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the incredible effort, dedication, and community spirit that made this year's harvest in Napa County so special. Our region's agricultural heritage continues to thrive, and the bounty of this season is a testament to the hard work of our farmers, vineyard workers, and local businesses. Whether I'm walking alongside my father in the vineyards or driving on the same roads with freshly picked berries travelling to their next destination, I am reminded of all the "ingredients" that make each harvest a work of art. Agriculture is a driving force in this county. In 2023, the numbers were impressive.
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Thank you to everyone who played a part in this year's harvest. Your dedication not only supports our local economy but also preserves the natural beauty and agricultural traditions that define Napa County. Here's to a safe completion of harvest and some good 2024 numbers!
In this newsletter you'll find some important information about how we're keeping our elections secure, resources for creating defensible space, County updates, regional updates from the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) about propositions 4 and 5, an update from Bay Conservation and Development Commission (BCDC) about how the region is working together to preserve our shoreline, many community events and more!
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I'm excited to invite you to the District 5 Satellite Office Ribbon Cutting, Open House and Food Drive on Thursday, November 11th from 4-7pm at American Canyon City Hall! Please come to see how this office will better connect our residents with the County of Napa. | |
Election Day Coming Up
As Election Day draws near and your ballots arrive in mailboxes, I want to highlight the additional measures Napa County is taking to ensure the security and integrity of the voting process. In this video, Registrar of Voters John Tuteur and Chief Information Officer Greg Brown share the steps being taken to safeguard the election and prepare for a smooth election night.
The Napa County Election Division is welcoming 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 5th, 2024, Presidental Election. There are several opportunities to observe including:
- Oct. 18th: Vote-by-mail ballot processing begins at 8:30am at the Napa County Election Division
- Oct. 26th: Counting of ballots starts at 9am and will continue through Election Day on Nov. 5th. Observers are welcome starting at 8:30am daily at the Election Division central office and at the Holiday Inn Express in American Canyon.
- Nov. 2nd: Observers are welcome at the other voting centers.
Results from processed vote-by-mail ballots will be posted shortly after 8pm. on Election Day. Counting will resume on Friday, Nov. 8th and continue through certification of the election.
If you’re interested in observing the election, please call the Napa County Election Division at (707) 253-4322 or toll free (UpValley and American Canyon) at 1-888-494-8356 or email elections@countyofnapa.org. A 24-hour notice is required to facilitate the process.
For questions or comments, please contact John Tuteur at 707-253-4459 or john.tuteur@countyofnapa.org.
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Napa County Chipping Program Makes a Difference
Napa County's Free Chipping Program is wrapping up for the season and has made a significant impact throughout the county. This program is a key part of the County's work to create defensible space around properties and reduce potential fire hazards. This year they have chipped:
- 898 jobs
- 37,391 yards
- 17,648 labor hours
Learn more about the program here >>>
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Defensible Space Concerns
Though we are now officially in fall, October can still bring dry and hot conditions to Napa Valley. If you have concerns about defensible space on your property, or a neighbors, you can access resources through the Napa County Fire Marshal's Office. Here are some key links:
- To submit a Defensible Space Complaint or request an inspection on your own property, use THIS FORM.
- For additional resources such as a self-inspection form, information on Firewise, and more, CHECK HERE.
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American Job Center Opens at Health & Humans Services Agency (CareerPoint)
Last month, I attended the grand opening of a new American Job Center of California, named CareerPoint, at our Napa County Health & Human Services Agency (HHSA). This center is a collaboration between the Workforce Alliance of the North Bay, HHSA, and other partner organizations. CareerPoint provides access to career counseling, training, job search assistance, and my personal favorite, the Wardrobe to Work closet. This unique resource provides individuals with an outfit for interviews or their first day of work, while offering guidance on how to make the most of items they already have at home. It's a wonderful way to give job seekers the confidence and support they need to success in their new careers.
Learn more about CareerPoint here >>>
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SHARE Program Accepting Applications! Rent assistance for low-income older adults
The new SHARE program is still accepting applications. Low-income older adults can receive up to $800 per month to help them stay in their homes. If you or someone you know is 65+ and struggling to pay rent, check out the requirements to see if you/they qualify.
Learn more about the program and apply here >>>
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Napa County receives Excellence in Financial Reporting and Transparency Award
The County is proud to share that for the 19th consecutive year, the Auditor-Controller's Office has been recognized for excellence in financial reporting and transparency by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA). This prestigious award is the highest form of recognition in governmental accounting and financial reporting and represents a significant accomplishment for the County and its leadership.
Read more here >>>
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Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) Executive Board Supports Propositions 4 and 5
The ABAG Executive Board has announced its support for two key statewide measures:
Proposition 4 would create a $10 billion climate bond that would fund projects like wildfire protection and water management, with at least 40% of the funds designated for disadvantaged communities.
Proposition 5 aims to lower the voting threshold for local bonds for affordable housing and infrastructure from two-thirds to 55%, making it easier to secure funding for these critical projects in the future.
Learn more about why ABAG supports Props 4 and 5 >>>
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Regional Shoreline Adaptation Plan
Rising sea levels caused by climate change are threatening our coastlines, and the effects vary across the Bay Area. To tackle this issue, California's 2023 law SB 272 requires local governments to create plans for adapting to sea level rise in a coordinated way. The Bay Conservation and Development Commission (BCDC) is leading this effort by developing a Regional Shoreline Adaptation Plan (RSAP) to align local initiatives efforts with regional goals and secure state funding.
BCDC has drafted a general plan and a set of guidelines to help local jurisdictions create their subregional plans. This collaborative approach will ensure that all Bay Area communities, from Napa County to Santa Clara County and everywhere in between, work together to address the effects of climate change on our shorelines. By coordinating these efforts, we can prevent unintended consequences, such as flooding neighboring communities, and capitalize on opportunities to tackle these problems with shared solutions.
Once finalized, the RSAP will serve as a framework for each local government to create their Subregional Shoreline Adaptation Plan, promoting a unified response to the region's evolving climate challenges.
Learn more about the Regional Shoreline Adaptation Plan here >>>
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Candidate Forum TONIGHT 10/3
The American Canyon Chamber of Commerce is hosting a Mayor and Council Forum tonight at the Boys and Girls Club from 6-8:30pm. Come hear directly from each of the candidates and learn more about their platforms to help inform who you want to vote for.
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Get connected to City Updates
If you're not already subscribed, I encourage all American Canyon residents to sign up for updates from the City, the American Canyon Police Department, and the American Canyon Fire Protection District. Each newsletter shares important information about resources and happenings in our community.
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City Manager, Jason Holley, shares important updates at least twice a month including City Council updates, community events and more. | |
Chief Greenberg provides important safety tips every month through the Neighborhood Watch Newsletter and updates about recent happenings. | |
Chief Belyea shares monthly stats about calls received by American Canyon Fire Protection District, as well as fire safety tips and more. | |
Annual American Canyon 4-H Pumpkin Sale 10/5-10/6
Get your holiday pumpkins this weekend from American Canyon 4H on Saturday, October 5 and Sunday, October 6 from 10am. to 1pm. at 2 Eucalyptus Drive. For more information contact Many Kane at crowe.mandy@gmail.com and (707) 501-0543.
Pumpkin Sale Details >>>
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American Canyon Arts Foundation Pumpkin Path 10/5
Join the American Canyon Arts Foundation for their annual pumpkin painting in the Wetlands! They provide the pumpkins and supplies. Your pumpkin will be added to the Pumpkin Path for the community to enjoy for the month.
Pumpkin Path Details >>>
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American Canyon Fire Protection District Open House 10/5
Come to the American Canyon Fire Protection District for their Open House on Saturday, October 5th. Enjoy a kids' obstacle course, car extrication demo, water spraying and more!
10am - 11am: Quiet hour for our friends with light and sound sensitivities
11am - 1pm: Open for all
ACFPD Open House Details >>>
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Manila Munchies Foodie Night 10/5
Finish out the evening on Saturday at Manila Munchies Foodie Night in partnership with FIL-AM of American Canyon. Celebrate Filipino American History Month with food trucks, vendors, entertainment, a kids' corner and more!
Manila Munchies Foodie Night Details >>>
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Napa Fire Department Fire & Life Safety Day Open House 10/12
Come and meet Napa firefighters, tour the station, see the jaws of life in action and more! You can also participate in the FREE Halloween costume exchange by bringing gently used costumes to exchange for a "new to you" costume!
NFD Open House Details >>>
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Donaldson Way Garden Open House 10/20
You're invited to the DWES School Garden Open House! Enjoy a student-led garden tour, a preview of current and future projects, and fun lawn games. Food will be available for purchase. There is a back gate access from Community Park 1 or access from the front of the school. For any questions, email bcaldwell@nvusd.org
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Safe Trick or Treat at Public Safety Building 10/31
American Canyon Police Department and Fire Protection District will be giving out candy at the Public Safety Building starting at 5pm!
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Halloween at the Plaza Trunk or Treat 10/31
Bring your family to trick or treat at the plaza, organized by the American Canyon Chamber of Commerce!
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Napa Día de los Muertos 11/2
Join us for Napa Dia de los Muertos, a family-friendly celebration where we honor the rich traditions of Dia de los Muertos through art, music, dance, and delicious food! Experience a welcoming space that fosters cultural awareness and pride, bringing our diverse Napa community together to celebrate life and remember our loved ones.
Napa Día de los Muertos details here >>>
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Want to make a difference in the community? Join a Napa County board, committee or commission
Joining a committee, commission, council, or board is a way for you to use your experience and expertise to help strengthen our community. There are currently vacancies on the Fire Services Advisory Committee, Housing Commission, Tourism Improvement District and more.
See the list of vacancies and apply here >>>
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This Month's Board of Supervisors Meetings
Attend and participate in-person or virtually to stay current on County projects and efforts! This month's meetings are on 10/15 and 10/29 at 9am in the Board of Supervisors Chambers on the third floor of the County Administration Building - 1195 Third Street, Suite 305, Napa.
Click here to see current agendas, minutes and meeting details >>>
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Supervisors Gallagher, Cottrell, Gregory and I with Mayor Scott Sedgley at the NapaSan ribbon cutting for their new (first-of-its-kind) linear generator helping them create more renewable energy. | |
Supervisor Gallagher and I with keynote speaker Candace Washington at the inaugural Suicide Prevention Conference presented by the Napa County Suicide Prevention Council. | |
Mayor Leon Garcia, Congressman Mike Thompson, and I at Evening in the Ruins where they both presented a combined $1.8M to support the Napa River Ecology Center Project. | | | | |
