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Local government works best when more people pull up a chair.

There is so much talent in our community — thoughtful, experienced, passionate people who care deeply about where we live. And yet, too often, folks simply don’t know when there’s an opportunity to serve and share their perspective.

Boards and commissions play a quiet but powerful role in shaping local decisions. They help guide policy, bring community perspective into the room, and strengthen the connection between residents and their government. When more voices are represented, the work gets better.

Below are four current openings for 5th District residents. If you have ever thought about getting involved, this could be the moment to lean in.

Join the IOLERO Community Advisory Council

The Independent Office of Law Enforcement Review and Outreach (IOLERO) is seeking passionate community members from Sonoma County’s 5th District to serve on its Community Advisory Council (CAC).

The CAC plays a vital role in promoting transparency, accountability, and community engagement in law enforcement oversight. Members help review policies, provide input on initiatives, and serve as a bridge between the community and law enforcement.

Term: Two years, beginning May 1, 2026

Eligibility: Must reside in Sonoma County's 5th District and demonstrate a commitment to community engagement and civilian oversight.

Help shape the future of law enforcement oversight in Sonoma County!

Deadline to Apply: March 6, 2026

Join the Sonoma County Coast MAC

The Coast Municipal Advisory Council (Coast MAC) is seeking dedicated community members to represent the Sonoma Coast and provide input on County issues. This is your opportunity to help shape decisions on land use, transportation, and community priorities. Must reside within the Coast MAC boundaries and be at least 18 years old.

There are current vacancies in the following representation areas:

• The Sea Ranch/Annapolis
• Timber Cove
• Fort Ross/West Cazadero
• Jenner
• Bodega Bay
• Bodega/Valley Ford

Members will attend regular public meetings, study advisory topics, engage their communities, and make recommendations to the Board of Supervisors.

Deadline to Apply: March 13, 2026

Join the Sonoma County Commission on the Status of Women

Are you passionate about promoting equal rights and opportunities for women and girls in Sonoma County? The Commission on the Status of Women is seeking dedicated individuals to serve as Commissioners. Members play a vital role in addressing issues of discrimination and advancing equity in our community.

About the Commission:

Established by the Board of Supervisors, the Commission consists of 15 members who reflect the diversity of Sonoma County. Commissioners contribute meaningfully to shaping policies and programs that enhance the quality of life for women and girls.

What We’re Looking For:

• Commitment to attend monthly meetings and actively participate in Commission work.
• Interest in community advocacy and collaboration.
• Ability to uphold high ethical standards and represent the Commission with integrity.

Deadline to Apply: March 6, 2026

Join the Lower Russian River MAC

The Lower Russian River Municipal Advisory Council is seeking a community member to represent the the Guerneville South / Pocket Canyon area as an Alternate.

This is your opportunity to help shape decisions on land use, transportation, and community priorities. Must reside within the Guerneville South / Pocket Canyon boundaries and be at least 18 years old.

Members will attend regular public meetings, study advisory topics, engage their communities, and make recommendations to the Board of Supervisors.

Deadline to Apply: March 13, 2026

February 5 Forestville Town Hall Recap

The well-attended February 5, 2026 Forestville Town Hall focused on two major transportation projects: the Mirabel Road Corridor Improvements and West County Trail extension, and the Front Street Active Transportation Project.

Both aim to enhance pedestrian and bicycle safety, improve traffic flow, and connect Forestville to regional trail networks. Key features include widened shoulders for bike lanes and emergency access, multi-use trails, ADA ramps, bulb-outs, and decorative lighting, with construction phases scheduled between 2026 and 2029.

More details and the slides from the presentation are available here.

Upcoming Meetings & Events

Estero Americano Coast Preserve Town Hall

Wednesday February 25, 2026
 6 - 7 PM

Bodega Bay Grange Hall
1370 Bodega Ave


Opening remarks by Supervisor Lynda Hopkins will be followed by a discussion on The Wildlands Conservancy’s Estero Americano Coast Preserve, including parking and visitor concerns, and a presentation from Stevan Hunter, Senior Engineer with Sonoma County Public Infrastructure, on proposed no-parking zones.

Lower Russian River Municipal Advisory Council 

March 12, 2026

5:30 PM

West County Services Center

16390 Main Street, Suite B, Guerneville

Main topic: Sonoma County Habitat Conservation Plan

River MAC Meetings are hybrid - in person and via Zoom. Public comment may be made in either format. Agendas are published at the River MAC Meeting Calendar page no later than 72 hours before the meeting.

Community Coffee / Cafecito Comunitario

Monday, February 23, 9:00 - 10:00 AM

West County Services Center

16390 Main Street Suite B, Guerneville



District 5 invites you to visit our "Cafecito" drop-in office hours on the third Monday most months, the 4th in February due to the Presidents' Day holiday. 

You don't have to stay; you can just stop by to visit with D5 staff, enjoy a delicious pastry and coffee, tea, or hot chocolate; then go about your day.


Everyone is welcome; we look forward to seeing you!

Sonoma County Coast Municipal Advisory Council
Thursday March 26, 2026
5:30 PM

Jenner Community Center

10398 CA-1, Jenner

Coast MAC Meetings are hybrid - in person and via Zoom. Public comment may be made in either format. Agendas are published at the Coast MAC Meeting Calendar page no later than 72 hours before the meeting.

Fifth District Supervisor Lynda Hopkins | County of Sonoma | 707-565-2241

Lynda.Hopkins@sonomacounty.gov

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