News from Around the District  - October, 2014
In This Issue
Committeesreturntotop

Candace currently sits on the following boards, commissions and committees.  

 

Click on the name to visit their webpage. 

 

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District 2 Staff
Gayle Israel
Gayle Israel
Chief of Staff
Field Representative;
San Ramon & Danville

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Jill Ray
Jill Ray
Field Representative; Canyon, Moraga & Orinda
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Lauri Byers
Lauri Byers
Scheduler, Field Representative; Lafayette

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Donna
Donna Maxwell
Field Representative; Alamo & part of Walnut Creek, including; Parkmead, Rossmoor & Saranap
 


District Offices

San Ramon Valley Office  

309 Diablo Road

Danville, CA  94526

 

Hours:

Monday - Friday

8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

 

Phone: (925) 957-8860

FAX: (925) 820-3785

  

Danville Office
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Lamorinda Office

  Fire Station #15

3338 Mt. Diablo Boulevard

Lafayette, CA  94549

 

Hours:

Thursdays, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.   

and by appointment, please call

 

Phone: (925) 646-6067

FAX: (925) 646-6068
 
 
Quick Links
City of Walnut Creekreturn5

City of Lafayette

City of Orinda

Town of Moraga

Rossmoor

San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District

Contra Costa County Fire Protection District

San Ramon Valley CERT Training

Lamorinda CERT Training

 

Secretary of State - Register to Vote 


Contra Costa County Sheriff

Contra Costa County Public Works Dept.

Contra Costa Solid Waste Authority

Mosquito and Vector Control

Contra Costa Crisis Center

Contra Costa Sanitary District

Contra Costa Water District

East Bay Regional Park District

Bay Area Air Quality Management District

California State Association of Counties

 

 

 

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National Emergency Preparedness Month

Sheriff David Livingston and Captain Bani Kollo are joined by the Board of Supervisors in proclaiming September, 2014 as National Emergency Preparedness Month in Contra Costa County as part of the Federal Emergency Management Administration's emergency preparedness campaign. For more information about how to be prepared for a disaster, click here.
Sustainability Fair
On Saturday, September 6, the Contra Costa Master Gardeners held their Sustainability Fair in Walnut Creek. Many environmentally conscious participants joined in at the educational and fun event.
The Master Gardeners advise schools on how to build and maintain school gardens that teach children about where food comes from and how to eat nutritiously. They provide gardening education at

San Ramon City Hall
Groundbreaking Ceremony

Supervisor Andersen joined San Ramon Mayor Bill Clarkson and Vice-Mayor Philip O'Loane at the City Hall Ground Breaking Ceremony; they  are planning to be open for business in 2015.
Danville Fall Crafts Festival

Get set for the season at the Danville Fall Crafts Festival on October 25 & 26, from 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m, at Hartz and Prospect in Downtown Danville. This popular event features arts and crafts from more than 200 artisans, along with food, music, and entertainment for the whole family. Children can also participate in the Halloween parade on Saturday at 10:00 a.m., and enjoy safe trick-or-treating throughout the day. The Danville Fall Crafts Festival is free and open to the public. To learn more, call (925) 837-4400 or visit click here.

Board of Supervisors Veterans Day Ceremony
Please join the Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, November 4th at 11:00 a.m. as we honor those who have served our country, giving special recognition to women veterans. Our keynote speaker will be Tara Ricks, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Public Information Officer, Sacramento VAMC. For more information or to arrange for special parking or seating accommodations, click here to email James Lyons, or call (92) 231-8692.  
Supporting Local Business
In this day of the convenience of shopping online, it's important to support our brick and mortar businesses in the community.  They do so much more than just sell items, but are true supporters of community events and activities. Supervisor Andersen recently attended a "conversation" with author Gail Sheehy and the Hon. Ellen Tauscher at Rakestraw Books in Danville, which is owned and operated by Michael Barnard.  Also in the picture is Danville Mayor Robert Storer.
 

Saranap Village
The Saranap Village development project Draft EIR was released on September 18. The project proposes redevelopment of a portion of Boulevard Way into a mixed-use village with residential uses and neighborhood-serving restaurants, services, and shops. To link to the Draft EIR and for further information, click here  Comments on the adequacy of the EIR may be made until 5:00 p.m. on Monday, November 17.
The County Zoning Administrator's hearing will be held on Monday, November 3, at 3:30 p.m. at 30 Muir Road, Martinez.
East Bay EDA Releases Quality of Life Report
East Bay EDA
Benjamin Sigman with Economic & Planning Systems, Inc., presented his firm's report on the Quality of Life in the East Bay to the East Bay Economic Development Alliance Fall Membership Meeting on September 18. Supervisor Andersen serves on the EDA Board as 2nd Vice Chair.  Click here to download and view the Quality of Life Report.
Earthquake Planning
This October 21st marks the 146th year since the Hayward Fault last ruptured.  On average the fault has moved every 140 years.  The key to surviving any emergency or disaster situation is planning. 

read more
Protect Yourself From West Nile Virus

The Contra Costa Mosquito & Vector Control District urges residents of California to take precautions from mosquito bites while enjoying the outdoors. According to the California West Nile Virus website, click here, at this time last year there were only 86 human cases compared to 129 this year, and 907 dead birds compared to 1733 this year. Mosquitoes carrying the virus can infect humans with just a single bite.

 read more 

Oktoberfest  at Hacienda de las Flores- Moraga
Oktoberfest 2014 will take place on Sunday, October 26, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Hacienda de las Flores, 2100 Donald Drive in Moraga. Music will be provided by a live oompah band, and bratwurst mit kraut, strudel and pretzels along with German beverages will be available.  Pumpkin painting and jumpy houses will entertain the children.  A $5 donation per adult is requested, those under 21 will be admitted free. Parking and a free shuttle to the Hacienda will be available from Donald Rheem School.

This event is presented by the Hacienda Foundation, and all proceeds will go to improvements to the Hacienda.  If you'd like to help out with Oktoberfest, please send an email by clicking here.
County Approves Path Towards Network of Family Justice Centers
Members of the Family Justice Center Working Group, including Supervisor Andersen's staff member Donna Maxwell, gathered to address the Board of Supervisors on September 9th.

In 2001 the County Board of Supervisors adopted a Zero Tolerance for Domestic Violence Initiative, forming a public/private partnership designed to reduce domestic violence, family violence, elder abuse and human trafficking in Contra Costa County.

Oktoberfest at Forest Home Farms - San Ramon

On October 11, 2014, from 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. the San Ramon Historic Foundation and Schubros Brewery  present Oktoberfest! at the Forest Home Farms Historic Park, 19953 San Ramon Valley Boulevard in San Ramon.  Enjoy live music and dancing, featuring Blow Musik, Olympia Fields Brass Band and Golden Gate Bavarian Dancers.

Click here for more information or to purchase tickets online.
San Ramon Valley Run for Education
The Run for Education, formerly "Primo's Run," has been a tradition in the San Ramon Valley for 31 years. It is the primary fund-raising activity for the San Ramon Valley Education Foundation, a non-profit organization that supports and promotes education in the community in partnership

Alamo Citizen of The Year is Honored
Supervisor Andersen's Alamo Liaison, Donna Maxwell, presents Stan Hitomi with a resolution recognizing him as Alamo Citizen of the Year
At the 32nd Annual Alamo Music and Wine Festival held on September 6, the Rotary Club of Alamo announced their selection for Citizen of the Year, Principal Stan Hitomi of Alamo Elementary School. Supervisor Andersen recognized Stan with a resolution, which expounded on his selfless service to the students and citizens of Alamo. Congratulations Principal Hitomi for this well-deserved recognition!

 

Rossmoor Celebrates 50 Years!
Diane Guilfoy, President of the Golden Rain Foundation accepts a Board of Supervisors Resolution from Supervisor Andersen commemorating Rossmoor's 50th Anniversary at the opening celebration on Sunday, September 14th. The last paragraph of the resolution states, "Rossmoor is a nationally recognized community for seniors who are 55 and older and it has most likely surpassed all that Founder Ross Cortese had wished for; it is a place of comfort and security, beauty and serenity, enjoyment and enrichment that is home to people from all over the world."
Keeping Busy in Lafayette
If you are looking for interesting and fun activities in October, Lafayette has plenty of them.

On Saturday, October 11 from 3 - 5:30pm at the Community Hall, located just across from the plaza at the Main Library entrance, and right off Mt. Diablo Boulevard,   is the

Parkmead Annual Pool Party
Pictured above are PCA Board Member Richard West, Supervisor Andersen Staff Member Donna Maxwell, and PCA Board Members Pete Johnson and Terri Almeida. 
Parkmead residents joined together on Sunday, September 14th for their annual pool party and BBQ at Dewing Park.  Hotdogs, hamburgers, desserts and drinks were provided by the Parkmead Community Association, and this included a keg of Root Beer!  Pyramid Brewery provided complimentary cold beer.  Entertainment was provided by Alan Osmundson, a Las Lomas High School student, with a jazz quartet made up of local high school students from the music community.

Rancho San Ramon Community Park
Grand Opening

Free Homeowner Workshop
Learn how to get $1,000 - $6,500 in energy efficiency rebates for a more comfortable home.  On Thursday, October 2, 2014, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in the Walnut Creek City Council Chambers, located at 1666 North Main in Walnut Creek, join Contra Costa County and the City of Walnut Creek for this free event.

Honoring Tassajara One Room Schoolhouse
Posing in front of the One Room Schoolhouse with Candace are; Steve Hart, retired from the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, Florence McAuley, designer of the National Registry commemorative plaque,and Danville Mayor Robert Storer. 
Supervisor Andersen joined Danville town officials and former students to celebrate as the Museum of the San Ramon Valley's Tassajara One Room Schoolhouse was accepted into the National Registry of Historic Places on September 10, 2014.  Click here for more information about the One Room Schoolhouse.
It's Fire Prevention Week - Oct 5 - 11, 2014
Working Smoke Alarms Save Lives: Test Yours Every Month! Did you know that many people don't test their smoke alarms as often as they should? When there is a fire, smoke spreads fast. You need working smoke alarms to give you time to get out.
 

Join the Moraga-Orinda Fire District at their Fall Open House and Pancake Breakfast on Saturday, October 4th, from  8:00 a.m. to

 

read more 

Realtor Town Hall Meeting

Supervisor Andersen spoke to the Contra Costa Association of Realtors (CCAR) Town Hall meeting on September 24th. She is always delighted to provide County updates to local realtors, but especially enjoyed finding in the audience her high school classmate from Hawaii, Lisa Crosby-Torres, who serves on the CCAR Board of Directors, pictured above.
The Great ShakeOut

Millions of people worldwide will practice how to Drop, Cover, and Hold On at 10:16 a.m. on October 16* during Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drills. Registration is open to families, groups, businesses and agencies. By participating, you can ensure peace of mind that you, your family, your co-workers and millions of others will be better prepared to survive and recover quickly from our next big earthquake! Share the ShakeOut with your neighbors!

 

To learn more or to register click here.

Doctor's Hospital Update
"Contra Costa County is not in a position to take over Doctor's Hospital in San Pablo and keeping it open as a full service hospital is not a viable option."  This was one of the findings made by an independent team of healthcare and financial and technical experts.  They are recommending that the community look at other alternatives, including an enhanced 23-hour urgent care center.  To read a copy of the press release announcing their findings and the Stakeholder Group Interim Report click here
Canyon Bridge Replacement Project
Canyon Road, the southern gateway connection to the Town of Moraga, facilitates an average daily traffic use of 6,000 vehicles. The bridge spans the west branch of the San Leandro Creek, south of Constance Place. The Town has

Historical Society Picnic in the Park

On Saturday, September 27, Supervisor Andersen joined the Contra Costa Historical Society at their membership picnic and history tour at Hap Magee Ranch Park in Danville. The Contra Costa County Historical Society's mission is to preserve for the benefit of the people of our County, the relics of our past. Click here for more information about the Historical Society.
Everyday Heroes Golf Fundraiser
The Orinda Community Foundation's 5th Annual Everyday Heroes Golf Fundraiser will be held on October 13, 2014 at the Orinda Country Club. The Orinda Community Foundation enhances the quality of life in Orinda by encouraging philanthropy, building partnerships, and providing financial assistance to support community activities, beautification and the arts. For additional information about the golf fundraiser, click here.
Two Cities, One Tale - Orphan Train

Each year the libraries of Danville and San Ramon team up for their annual Two Cities, One Tale City read. Join residents of Danville and San Ramon for a 5-week book-sharing event to read one book together! This year the cities are reading #1 New York Times bestselling author Christina Baker Kline's Orphan Train. Copies of the book can be picked up at the Danville and San Ramon Libraries.

 

read more 

Moraga Turns 40!

Join the community and celebrate the Town's 40th Anniversary at Saint Mary's College on Saturday, October 18. Social hour is at 6:00 p.m. and dinner at 7:00 p.m. Reservations for dinner are required by October 10. For $75 per person, guests will enjoy hors d' oeuvres, wine, salad, pork loin or grilled salmon, dessert, a commemorative wine glass and a fun-filled evening of stories and remembrances. To Purchase Tickets or for additional information contact Susan Sperry at (925) 376-3053.

Volunteers Needed to Sit on
District 2 Advisory Boards

In addition to the District 2 vacancies listed below, Supervisor Andersen would like to draw your attention to the following list of countywide advisory bodies that currently have At Large Seats available, such as the Advisory Council on Aging, Advisory Council on Equal Employment Opportunity, Affordable Housing Finance Committee,

 

read more 

September Board Actions

Ever wonder what your Supervisor does at that weekly Tuesday Board of Supervisors Meeting?  Here are some of the board actions from the month of September which impact the residents of District 2: 

 

Authorized a $1.00 increase in fees for certified copies of marriage certificates, birth certificates, death records, and fetal death records, effective January 1, 2015, for the purpose of providing funding for governmental oversight and coordination of the Zero Tolerance for Domestic Violence Initiative and Family Justice Centers.

 

Adjourned in memory of Margaret C. May, resident of Danville, as recommended by Supervisor Andersen.

 

Approved the Fiscal Year 2014/15 Dougherty Valley Maintenance County Service Area M-29 budget totaling $18,057,638, San Ramon-Dougherty Valley (covers Internal Road Maintenance, Street Landscaping, Park Maintenance, Open Space Maintenance, Flood Control Services, Police Services, Community Facilities, Overhead to the City of San Ramon.

 

Approved the second extension of the Subdivision Agreement for a project by Shapell Homes, San Ramon-Dougherty Valley.

 

Approved the second extension of the Right-of-Way Landscaping for a project by Shapell Homes, San Ramon-Dougherty Valley.

 

Approved/Authorized purchase of Swiftwater Rescue Equipment for the ConFire Swiftwater Rescue Program to support ongoing training exercises and rescue use.

 

Declared the intention to order an assessment for the annexed territory of the Elworthy Ranch Development to the Wiedemann Ranch Geologic Hazard Abatement District (GHAD): Fixed a hearing for October 28, 2014 to consider the proposed assessment and any protests against the assessment.

 

Authorized County Counsel to initiate and prosecute legal action to recover funds for completion of improvements for a defaulted project subdivided by the developer Thomas A. Halaszynski; Authorized completion of the subdivision improvements and to use any recovered funds for that purpose, Walnut Creek.

 

Recognized September as National Recovery Month in Contra Costa County.

 

Declared September 2014 as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month in Contra Costa County as recommended by Supervisor Andersen.

 

Kicked Off the 2014 Contra Costa County Employees Combined Charities Campaign.

 

Recognized Mary Elizabeth Ostrander at the celebration of her 100th Birthday, on September 14, 2014, as recommended by Supervisor Andersen.

 

Recognized the 50th anniversary of Rossmoor, as recommended by Supervisor Andersen.

 

Proclaimed September 2014 as National Preparedness Month in Contra Costa County.

 

Adopted Ordinance regulating private off-street parking facilities.

 

Declared vacant the Trustee 2 Seat of the Alamo-Lafayette Cemetery District Board of Directors effective immediately; Directed the Clerk of the Board to post the vacancy, as recommended by Supervisor Andersen.

 

Approved/Authorized a Cooperative Agreement with the Contra Costa Transportation Authority, and the City of Walnut Creek, to enable disbursement of Measure J (2004) Subregional Transportation Needs Program funds to the County to fund transportation projects and programs.

 

Amended the adopted the 2014 State and Federal Legislative Platform, to include support for improved funding and care for U.S. military veterans and families.

 

Approved/Authorized a contract with FCS International, Inc. (dba First Carbon Solutions / Michael Brandman Associates) for the preparation of the environmental impact report for the proposed Tassajara Parks Project located in the Tassajara Valley.

 

Approved/Authorized a contract amendment with Area West Environmental, Inc. to add one additional sub-contractor and extend the term with no change in the original payment limit to complete necessary environmental compliance work for the Camino Tassajara Shoulder Widening, east of Blackhawk Drive to Finley Road Project, Danville.

 

ConFire Presentation of response to a 3-alarm, multi-agency fire incident in the City of Lafayette.

 

Accepted report from the Fire Chief and representatives from The Ludwig Group regarding the financial feasibility of the ConFire providing emergency medical services transport.

 

Authorized preparation/submittal of a proposal for emergency ambulance services when a final request for proposals for Emergency Response Areas I, II, and V, is issued by the Contra Costa County Emergency Medical Services Agency and to engage a consultant to assist District staff in preparing a proposal to provide emergency ambulance services for Emergency Response Areas I, II, and V.

 

Proclaimed September 2014 Adult Literacy Awareness Month.

 

Presentation of the 2013-2014 Annual Report from the Contra Costa County Juvenile Justice-Delinquency Prevention Commission.

 

Authorized the Conservation and Development Department to initiate a study for an amendment to the County Code to allow the raising of small farm animals for non-commercial purposes on smaller residential properties.

 

Adopted a position of "support" on Proposition 1, the Water Quality, Supply, and Infrastructure Improvement Act of 2014.

 

Adopted the FY 2014-15 Adopted Budget as finally determined.

 

Approved/Authorized a Memorandum of Understanding between Contra Costa County and the City of Dublin to conduct a traffic study and initial preliminary engineering for the Camino Tassajara/Tassajara Road Realignment Project.

 

Added Article 416-6.6 to the County Ordinance Code to permit the Animal Services Department to issue administrative penalties for violations of dog and cat licensing requirements; Fix September 23, 2014 for adoption.

 

Authorized a letter of interest to accept funding from the Board of State and Community Corrections (BSCC) to provide grants to nongovernmental entities that provide community recidivism and crime reduction services.

 

Recognized September 2014 as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, Gerold Loenicker, Mental Health Supervisor and Rhonda James, Director of Contra Costa Crisis Center.

 

Recognized Scott Anderson for his years of service to the Contra Costa County Hazardous Materials Commission.

 

Accepted the presentation from Contra Costa Regional Medical Center on the Contra Costa County Regional Medical Center's Welcoming Policy.

 

Approved with modifications, a draft letter on the 2014 Countywide Comprehensive Transportation Plan Update; Authorized the letter transmitting the comments to the Contra Costa Transportation Authority.

 

Accepted an update on the Emergency Medical Services Agency Request for Proposals process and receive a presentation from the Contra Costa County Executive Fire Chief's Association on Advanced and Basic Life Support services.

 

Recognized Dr. James M. Hale for more than 21 years of service to the County Fish and Wildlife Committee.

 

Recognized the 40th Anniversary of the Town of Moraga, as recommended by Supervisor Andersen.

 

Honored the Walnut Creek Lions Club on their 90th Anniversary, as recommended by Supervisor Andersen and Supervisor Mitchoff.

 

Reappointed John Speakman and David Schweppe to the District II and District II Alternate seats, respectively, on the Emergency Medical Care Committee, as recommended by Supervisor Andersen.

 

Appointed Mary McCosker to the Trustee 2 seat of the Alamo-Lafayette Cemetery District Board of Directors, as recommended by Supervisor Andersen.

 

Approved Appropriation and Revenue Adjustment authorizing new revenue in County Service Area P-2B (Alamo) and appropriate it for the purchase of two Radar Feedback Display signs and funding for a Crossing Guard for Alamo Elementary School.

 

Approved/Authorized contract with the City of Walnut Creek to pay the County for continuation of the operation of the Adult Interim Housing Program.

 

Accepted update from the Employment and Human Services Department, Aging and Adult Services Bureau, on the services provided as a part of the continuum of programs which seek to promote maximum independent functioning for elders and adults with disabilities in Contra Costa County.

The full text of the articles in this newsletter follow. We have provided a preview of the articles above for easier reading. Navigate by clicking on "read more" and "return to articles".
sustainabilityfairSustainability Fair
On Saturday, September 6, the Contra Costa Master Gardeners held their Sustainability Fair in Walnut Creek. Many environmentally conscious participants joined in at the educational and fun event.
The Master Gardeners advise schools on how to build and maintain school gardens that teach children about where food comes from and how to eat nutritiously. They provide gardening education at Community Gardens, as well as presenting educational talks on sustainable landscaping at libraries and other public venues throughout the County.  Altogether, 12,000 hours of volunteer service was provided to Contra Costa County's population in 2009-10 by Contra Costa Master Gardeners. Click here for more information about the Contra Costa Master Gardeners.
earthquakeplanningEarthquake Planning
This October 21st marks the 146th year since the Hayward Fault last ruptured.  On average the fault has moved every 140 years.  The key to surviving any emergency or disaster situation is planning.  Take the time to discuss what you hope to do with everyone at home and work.  Take a moment to identify what each of you will do to survive and recover quickly.
  • What escape routes avoid falling hazards?
  • How do you help family members, neighbors and co-workers with disabilities?
  • How do you plan for pets?
  • What supplies do you store for 7 days?

For more information:

American Red Cross Emergency Plan: click here 

How to Prepare a Communications Plan:  click here 

Info on Hayward Fault: click here  

 

return to articles 

westnileProtect Yourself From West Nile Virus

The Contra Costa Mosquito & Vector Control District urges residents of California to take precautions from mosquito bites while enjoying the outdoors. According to the California West Nile Virus website, click here, at this time last year there were only 86 human cases compared to 129 this year, and 907 dead birds compared to 1733 this year. Mosquitoes carrying the virus can infect humans with just a single bite.

 

"Any outdoor activity, whether it's boating, camping, or just lounging in the backyard can be risky. Anyone of any age can get West Nile virus from just a single mosquito bite," said Steve Schutz, Ph.D., scientific program manager for the District. "Wearing mosquito repellent is essential. We, and the CDC, recommend products containing the ingredient DEET, but products containing oil of eucalyptus and picaridin are also on the recommended list," he added.    

 

Residents are urged to help reduce their risk of contracting mosquito-borne diseases by following these guidelines: 

  • Dump or drain standing water. Mosquitoes can't begin their lives without water.
  • Defend yourself against mosquitoes by using repellents containing DEET, Picaridin, or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus.
  • Avoid being outdoors when mosquitoes are present, typically dawn and dusk.
  • Report neglected swimming pools by calling 925-771-6195 or  click here.  Anonymous calls accepted. Just one neglected pool can produce more than 1 million mosquitoes and affect people up to five miles away. 
  • Report dead birds to the state hotline: 1-877-968-2473. All reports are crucial, even if the bird does not meet criteria for testing.

Since 2005, 48 people in Contra Costa County have been diagnosed with West Nile virus. In 2006, two people died from the disease. Recent studies have shown that the majority of cases are not diagnosed and are grossly under-reported. For 2014, a total of 19 groups of mosquitoes, 12 chickens and 31 dead birds have tested positive for the virus.

   

Contra Costa Mosquito & Vector Control District is an independent special district and public health agency. Call the District to report mosquito problems at (925) 771-6195, to get FREE mosquitofish for ornamental ponds, horse troughs or neglected swimming pools.  Visit their website by clicking here.   

 

return to articles 

County Approves Path Towards Network of Family justiccentersJustice Centers
Members of the Family Justice Center Working Group, including Supervisor Andersen's staff member Donna Maxwell, gathered to address the Board of Supervisors on September 9th.

In 2001 the County Board of Supervisors adopted a Zero Tolerance for Domestic Violence Initiative, forming a public/private partnership designed to reduce domestic violence, family violence, elder abuse and human trafficking in Contra Costa County. Last month the Board of Supervisors expanded efforts to bring a network of Family Justice Centers to Contra Costa County. With this action, Contra Costa County becomes the first county in the nation to establish a countywide network of Family Justice Centers, with plans underway to establish additional centers in central and east Contra Costa County, expanding the success of the center in Richmond, which was established in 2011.

   

The Family Justice Center brings together a multi-disciplinary team of professionals who work together, in the same location, to provide coordinated services to victims of family violence.  Family Justice Centers are specifically defined in federal law and refer to the co-location of staff members from multiple agencies under one roof.  Family Justice Centers house many partners, including police officers, prosecutors, civil legal service providers, and community-based advocates. The core concept is to provide one place where victims can go to talk to an advocate, plan for their safety, interview with a police officer, meet with a prosecutor, receive medical assistance, receive information on shelter, and get help with transportation.

 

Recent events and an increased awareness through social media have brought the importance of an all in one service center for victims of domestic violence to the forefront. Domestic violence is occurring in all socio-economic sectors and recognizing this, the Board of Supervisors has taken action to develop the Family Justice Center Network in Contra Costa County.  

 

Proven outcomes of justice centers include reduced homicides; enhanced police investigation; increased convictions, victim safety, and the autonomy and empowerment for victims; reduced fear and anxiety for victims and their children; and enhanced efficiency and coordination among service providers.

 

The Family Justice Center in Richmond has successfully provided families and victims of domestic violence a place to access comprehensive, integrated services in Contra Costa County. By expanding the network geographically, and increasing resources, an environment will be created in our County where victims of abuse, their families, and the community are safe and thriving. The West Contra Costa Family Justice Center is located at 1210 Hilltop Mall Road in Richmond and can be reached at (510) 965-4949 or online at www.wccfjc.org. The center will be moving at the end of the year to a new facility currently under construction at 254 24th Street in Richmond.

 

The Justice Center for Central County, which will also serve the residents of District 2, is not open yet, but staff from our office and over 100 Stakeholders have been working together with Concord Police Chief Guy Swanger to implement a plan. To learn more, or if you would like to support this effort, please contact Chief Swanger's Administrative Assistant, Debbie Pena by clicking here.

 

Also last month, Contra Costa County's Zero Tolerance for Domestic Violence Initiative  was selected as one of just four sites nationally for the Department of Justice's Office on Violence Against Women's Domestic Violence Homicide Prevention Demonstration Initiative. Contra Costa will receive $650,000 for two years as part of a multi-year effort to implement a nationally recognized domestic violence homicide prevention model called the Lethality Assessment Program (LAP) in Brentwood, Concord, and Richmond.  

 

Anyone in need of immediate help should contact STAND! For Families Free of Violence ("STAND!"). Founded in 1977, STAND! is one of the largest providers of services for people affected by domestic violence in Northern California. STAND!'s services include emergency shelter, transportation, comprehensive legal advocacy, transitional housing, clinical therapy for children and adults, therapeutic child care, vocational services, education, outreach, and prevention and batterer treatment programs. The STAND! crisis line is 1-888-215-5555, or visit their website by clicking here.  

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runforeducationSan Ramon Valley Run for Education
The Run for Education, formerly "Primo's Run," has been a tradition in the San Ramon Valley for 31 years. It is the primary fund-raising activity for the San Ramon Valley Education Foundation, a non-profit organization that supports and promotes education in the community in partnership with the San Ramon Valley Unified School District.  Together with  32 affiliates,  more than 7 million dollars a year is raised to support  underfunded schools.

The 31st Run for Education will be held October 12th, 2014. The 5K Fun Run/Walk participants will begin lining up behind the 5k timed runners and will start their event at 8:30am. The Half Marathon race will start promptly at 7:15am. Both races are certified by the USA Track and Field and can serve as qualifiers for other races!

To register or to learn more about the run click here

lafayetteeventsKeeping Busy in Lafayette
If you are looking for interesting and fun activities in October, Lafayette has plenty of them.

On Saturday, October 11 from 3 - 5:30pm at the Community Hall, located just across from the plaza at the Main Library entrance, and right off Mt. Diablo Boulevard,   is the 2nd Annual Battle of the Bands! Teen bands battle it out on stage in front of friends, family and peers for prizes. All ages are welcome. The event is free, no registration is necessary. Click here for more information.

On Wednesday, October 15 from 3:30 - 4:30pm at the Lafayette Library & Learning Center, Art & Science Center, don't miss "Curiosity Corner" - Creatures of the Night! The Lindsay Wildlife Museum brings bats to the library! Bring your curiosity; question, explore, discover! Ages 5 - 17 Register by clicking here or call 925-385-2280.

The 22nd Annual Lafayette Reservoir Run is on Sunday, October 26. Start Location: Mt. Diablo Blvd. between First Street & Moraga Road. Registration opens at 6:30am. The Chamber of Commerce and the City of Lafayette are co-sponsors of the Run which is traditionally held on the last Sunday in October. Beneficiaries of the event are the local schools and the services and programs of the Chamber. The Lafayette Reservoir Run is the city's most popular "family affair", involving kids, parents, grandparents, and hundreds of serious runners from throughout the Bay Area.  For more information click here.

energyupgradeFree Homeowner Workshop
Learn how to get $1,000 - $6,500 in energy efficiency rebates for a more comfortable home.  On Thursday, October 2, 2014, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in the Walnut Creek City Council Chambers, located at 1666 North Main in Walnut Creek, join Contra Costa County and the City of Walnut Creek for this free event.

Enjoy complimentary snacks and refreshments  while learning about home upgrades from Energy Upgrade California; they will be providing assistance and incentives for home improvement projects that can reduce energy use and make homes more comfortable.  This statewide program is managed locally by utilities and regional energy networks and directly by the California Public Utilities Commission in collaboration with the California Energy Commission.

To RSVP for this event click here.

mofdIt's Fire Prevention Week - Oct 5 - 11, 2014
Working Smoke Alarms Save Lives: Test Yours Every Month! Did you know that many people don't test their smoke alarms as often as they should? When there is a fire, smoke spreads fast. You need working smoke alarms to give you time to get out.
 

Join the Moraga-Orinda Fire District at their Fall Open House and Pancake Breakfast on Saturday, October 4th, from  8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. (breakfast is served at 8:30 a.m.), at Station 41 - 1280 Moraga Way, Moraga.  Kids and adults can meet their local firefighters, tour the fire trucks, and gather important fire safety and disaster preparedness information from MOFD and other local agencies.  Smokey the Bear and Sparky the Fire Dog will make special guest appearances throughout the day.  There will be a child ID and fingerprinting station, a bounce house, popcorn, and much more!

 

The pancake breakfast is sponsored by firefighters from Local 1230 and the Moraga Lions.  All proceeds will be donated to the Alisa Ann Ruch Burn Foundation. For more information on the foundation click here.  

 

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canyonbridgeCanyon Bridge Replacement Project
Canyon Road, the southern gateway connection to the Town of Moraga, facilitates an average daily traffic use of 6,000 vehicles. The bridge spans the west branch of the San Leandro Creek, south of Constance Place. The Town has begun the preliminary engineering and environmental clearance phase of the Canyon Road Bridge Replacement project anticipating construction in 2015-2016. This project will be funded primarily by the Federal Highway Bridge Program administered by Caltrans.

 

Moraga and Canyon Residents, trail users, commuters, interested agencies and bicyclists are invited to a meeting to learn about the bridge replacement project. There will be time to ask questions and provide feedback.

 

When: Wednesday, October 15, 2014 at 6:00 p.m.

Where: Hacienda De Las Flores, 2100 Donald Drive, Moraga

 

For more information, click here.  

 

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orphantrainTwo Cities, One Tale - Orphan Train

Each year the libraries of Danville and San Ramon team up for their annual Two Cities, One Tale City read. Join residents of Danville and San Ramon for a 5-week book-sharing event to read one book together! This year the cities are reading #1 New York Times bestselling author Christina Baker Kline's Orphan Train. Copies of the book can be picked up at the Danville and San Ramon Libraries. Copies will also be available for loan in audio CD and downloadable eBook copies from the Library.

A very limited number of copies are available at participating locations in Danville and San Ramon to read, discuss, and then pass on to friends, family, or neighbors. Participating locations: (In Danville:) Danville Library, Danville Senior Center, San Ramon Valley Unified School District Office, Starbucks in Alamo and Blackhawk Plaza, Peet's Danville. (In San Ramon:) San Ramon and Dougherty Station Libraries, San Ramon City Hall, Bay Books, Has Beans Coffee, San Ramon Community Center Central Park, and Starbucks Marketplace. One copy per family or classroom while supplies last.

 

On November 5, at 7 pm, author Christna Baker Kline will be speaking and signing books at the Dougherty Valley High School Performing Arts Center. This event is free.

 

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advisoryboardsVolunteers Needed to Sit on
District 2 Advisory Boards

In addition to the District 2 vacancies listed below, Supervisor Andersen would like to draw your attention to the following list of countywide advisory bodies that currently have At Large Seats available, such as the Advisory Council on Aging, Advisory Council on Equal Employment Opportunity, Affordable Housing Finance Committee, Agricultural Task Force Committee, Countywide Bicycle Committee, County Connection Citizen Advisory Committee, Economic Opportunity Council, Emergency Medical Care Committee, Fish & Wildlife Committee, Hazardous Materials Commission, Homelessness Advisory Board, Juvenile Justice/Delinquency Prevention Commission, Local Child Care & Development Planning Council, Managed Care Commission, Public & Environmental Health Advisory Board, Commission for Women, and the Workforce Development Board. To apply for any of these seats, you can  click here.  

 

� Alcohol and Other Drugs Advisory Board - click here 

  

� In Home Support Services Public Authority Advisory Committee -click here 

  

� County Library Commission (1 Alternate Seat) - click here 

  

� Alamo Municipal Advisory Council (1 youth representative-Alamo resident) -click here 

  

� County Service Area P-5 Citizens Advisory Committee (1 Alternate Seat - Residents of: Roundhill, Regency Woods or Windsor Green)   

 

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District II Supervisor Candace Andersen
 309 Diablo Road | Danville | CA | 94526| (925) 957-8860
3338 Mt. Diablo Blvd. | Lafayette | CA | 94549 | (925) 646-6067