Board of Supervisors Veterans Day Event | | |
Board of Supervisors Meeting Recap for October 20th
From helping children thrive to supporting older adults, Tuesday's Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors meeting agenda put residents’ well-being front and center.
Highlights included proposed changes to the County’s Basic Health Care Program, a Head Start update with a proposed $274,800 grant for supplemental nutrition, and the Aging and Adult Services annual report. Together, these items highlight the County’s work to connect residents with care, help young families, and support older adults throughout our community.
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The Board of Supervisors joined Public Works Director Warren Lai and Caitlin Sly, President and CEO of the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano, to officially kick off the 2026 Holiday Food Fight, bringing County teams together in a friendly competition to fight hunger and support families in need this holiday season.
To watch the meeting visit contra-costa.granicus.com.
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A New "Chapter" for Bay Point
An exciting new chapter is beginning in Bay Point with this week's groundbreaking for the new Bay Point Library and Orbisonia Village.
The Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors, community leaders, and project partners celebrated with a groundbreaking ceremony a development that will bring a 20,900-square-foot library and 167 affordable rental homes near the Pittsburg/Bay Point BART station.
This exciting milestone marks an investment in literacy, learning, and community connection, creating a welcoming space for generations of residents to enjoy.
| | The Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors was proud to celebrate the groundbreaking of the new Bay Point Library. | |
Your Vote, Your Voice - Keeping Elections Safe in Contra Costa County
As the November 3 General Election approaches, Contra Costa County’s Clerk-Recorder and Registrar of Voters, District Attorney, and Sheriff are working together to ensure every resident can vote safely and with confidence.
Enhanced election protections help prevent voter intimidation, safeguard ballots and voting equipment, and ensure a secure and fair election process.
Whether voting by mail, using an official ballot drop box, or voting in person, residents can feel confident that their vote matters and their voice will be heard!
Make your voice count! For voting locations, ballot information, and election resources, visit contracostavote.gov
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Building a Stronger East Bay Together
Supervisor Andersen, serving as Chair of the East Bay Economic Development Alliance (East Bay EDA) attended the organization's Board of Directors meeting, joined by special guest Libby Schaaf, President and CEO of the Bay Area Council.
The meeting provided a valuable opportunity to discuss regional economic priorities, strengthen partnerships, and explore ways to support local businesses, encourage innovation, create jobs, and promote a thriving East Bay economy. Through continued collaboration with regional leaders, Supervisor Andersen remains committed to fostering economic growth and ensuring our communities remain vibrant places to live, work, do business, and play.
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East Bay EDA Chair and Contra Costa County Supervisor Candace Andersen joined guest speaker Libby Schaaf, President and CEO of the Bay Area Council, and fellow East Bay EDA Board of Directors members for a productive meeting focused on regional collaboration and strengthening the East Bay’s economic future.
To learn about East Bay EDA and their initiatives visit HERE.
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Celebrating Leadership and Community at STAND!
Supervisor Andersen was pleased to attend STAND!'s 34th Annual Rebuilding Lives Event at the Pleasant Hill Community Center, celebrating the organization's dedication to supporting survivors of domestic violence and their families.
The evening honored outgoing CEO Rhonda James for nearly a decade of outstanding leadership, as well as Cheryl O'Connor, recipient of the prestigious Rollie Mullen Award, recognizing her decades of commitment to helping survivors rebuild their lives.
As STAND! prepares to celebrate its 50th Anniversary, the event was a wonderful reminder of the power of compassion, community partnerships, and the individuals who make a lasting difference in the lives of others.
| | Supervisor Andersen pictured with 2026 Rollie Mullen Award recipient. | | To learn more about STAND! and its work to eliminate intimate partner violence, visit HERE. | | Ready, Set, Rain! Winter Weather Preparedness Tips | | Visit CWS Alerts to learn more and to sign up! |
Are You Storm Ready?
As we head into the rainy season, Contra Costa County Public Works is reminding residents that a little preparation can go a long way in protecting homes and neighborhoods from flooding and storm damage.
At the October 6th Board of Supervisors meeting, Public Works staff highlighted the County’s ongoing efforts to prepare for winter storms, including clearing drainage systems, maintaining creeks and culverts, and addressing potential flood hazards.
Residents can do their part by clearing gutters, removing leaves and debris from drains, checking drainage areas around their homes, and knowing where to find sandbags if needed. If you live near a creek, do not attempt to clear debris during a rain storm, now is the time to ensure our neighborhood creeks are clear and ready for the increased flow.
See a potential flooding hazard? Contact County Public Works at (925) 313-2000 or visit the County's Service Request Portal.
For helpful tips, sandbag locations, and additional resources, visit the County's Storm Preparedness Webpage.
A little preparation today can make a big difference when the storms arrive!
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To learn more visit CCC Flood Control District.
Download the FEMA APP to receive real-time weather alerts, locate emergency shelters in your area, prepare for common hazards, and more!
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Connecting with Community Leaders
at Contra Costa Association of Realtors
Supervisor Andersen was pleased to join Kristin Connelly, Contra Costa County Clerk Recorder and Heather Schiffman, Chief Industry Advocacy Officer at Contra Costa Association of Realtors (CCAR) and other local elected officials, community leaders, and real estate professionals at the CCAR Annual Elected Officials Reception at the Pleasant Hill Community Center last week.
The gathering provided a wonderful opportunity to strengthen relationships, discuss housing and homeownership issues, and share perspectives on matters impacting Contra Costa County residents. Supervisor Andersen appreciates opportunities to connect with community partners and work together toward a thriving Contra Costa County.
| | Contra Costa County Public Works Projects | | |
Hemme Station Park Play Area Gets a Refresh
The play area at Hemme Station Park in Alamo will be closed October 26th through November 1st while crews repair and treat the rubberized surface beneath the play structures.
Please stay outside the fencing while the surface cures. Thank you for your patience as crews help keep the play area safe and ready for fun!
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Tree Pruning at Andrew H. Young Park
Tree pruning work will occur at Andrew H. Young Park in Alamo. Work will be performed on Friday, October 23rd between 8 AM to 4 PM. The park will not be accessible while work is in progress. The work includes pruning one (1) tree, in preparation for the upcoming Holiday Tree Lighting Festivities.
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Contra Costa County Public Works appreciates the community’s cooperation and understanding as this essential work is performed.
Visit CCCPWD to learn more.
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Extra! Extra! The Fall Edition of Contra Costa FOCUS
Is Here!
The Fall 2026 edition of Contra Costa FOCUS is now available! This issue celebrates America 250, highlighting Contra Costa County’s important place in our nation’s history.
Readers can also enjoy updates on sustainability efforts, exciting community events, infrastructure improvements, County employee achievements, and more!
Click here to explore the Fall 2026 edition of Contra Costa FOCUS!
For past editions visit HERE.
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RecycleSmart Cart Inspections Happening This Month
You may notice teams in your neighborhood this November performing visual "lid-flips" on waste carts. Here is what you need to know:
- Representatives from SCS Engineers, working on behalf of RecycleSmart, are visually inspecting residential carts for proper waste sorting.
- California State Law (SB 1383) requires annual route audits to keep organic waste (like food scraps and yard trimmings) out of landfills to help combat climate change.
- If items are found in the wrong bin, you will receive a cart tag with tips on proper sorting. Please note that Republic Services may leave contaminated carts unserviced.
Visit RecycleSmart.org/1383 for sorting guidelines and details on SB 1383.
If your cart was not emptied, please contact them directly at (925) 685-4711
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Caldecott Tunnel Overnight Closures
October 26th - 28th
Caltrans will close individual Caldecott Tunnel bores on Highway 24 for fire safety inspections and routine maintenance. Closures will take place 10 PM to 4:30 AM on the following nights:
- Monday, October 26th: Eastbound Bore 2
- Tuesday, October 27th: Eastbound Bore 1
- Wednesday, October 28th: Westbound Bore 3
At least one bore in each direction will remain open.
Please allow extra travel time.
For 24/7 traffic updates visit 511.org.
Starting next year, more extensive repairs of the three older bores will be taking place with much longer closures. Click the following to learn more about the Caldecott Tunnel Bores 1, 2, and 3 Rehabilitation and Ventilation Upgrade.
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Behind the Scenes Exploring Our Local Special Districts
On Wednesday, October 21st, the California Special Districts Association (CSDA) hosted an educational tour highlighting the important work of local special districts and the essential services they provide to our communities.
The tour featured visits to Central Contra Costa Sanitary District and the Contra Costa Resource Conservation District, offering participants a firsthand look at the infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and public services that help keep our communities thriving.
With nearly 2,000 special districts throughout California, these local agencies play a vital role in supporting our everyday lives!
| | District 2 Representative Cameron Collins (right) joined representatives from Districts 4 and 5 for an educational Special Districts Tour, gaining firsthand insight into the essential services, infrastructure, and environmental stewardship that help keep Contra Costa County communities thriving. | | To learn more about California Special Districts Association visit HERE. | |
Fall Into Preparedness with the Community Resilience Challenge
Small steps can make a big difference! Join the more than 6,300 Contra Costa households participating in the Cleaner Contra Costa Challenge and help build safer, more resilient communities.
Three simple actions to take this October:
- Fire Safety: Learn how to protect your home with helpful tips from Beautiful Moraga Orinda.
- Shift Your Ride: Save money and reduce air pollution by exploring alternative transportation.
- Adopt a Storm Drain: Help prevent flooding and protect local waterways by keeping drains clear.
From preparing an emergency grab bag to connecting with neighbors, every action counts!
Visit Fall Community Resilience Challenge to learn more and sign up.
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Contra Costa County Seeks Nominations for Humanitarians of the Year
The Board of Supervisors seek nominations for Humanitarians of the Year to be recognized during the 49th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Ceremony, which is scheduled to be held during their January 19, 2027 meeting.
Each year two Humanitarians of the Year are honored, one from each of the following categories:
- A High School Student who inspires others by living out the values of kindness, justice, and leadership
- An Adult who exemplifies Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s legacy through service, leadership, and compassion
Visit MLK JR to learn more and to fill out a nomination form.
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New Jury Summons Model Begins January 4, 2027
The Contra Costa County Superior Court will transition to a weekly jury summons model beginning January 4, 2027. The new model is projected to reduce the number of jurors summoned each year by approximately 20% and will give jurors notice the day before whether they need to report, eliminating midday call-ins. The first summonses under the weekly model will be mailed beginning November 9th.
Visit Jury Summons Press Release for more information.
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Someone To Talk To
Home should be a place where you can feel safe, respected and supported. But when a relationship involves fear, threats or control, even everyday decisions can feel difficult. October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a reminder to recognize abuse, support survivors and help people find care.
988: Someone to talk to - If you are feeling overwhelmed, frightened or emotionally exhausted, call or text 988 for free, confidential support, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You do not have to be suicidal to reach out. Relationship distress and intimate partner violence are among the reasons people contact the Lifeline. A crisis counselor can listen, help you talk through what you’re feeling and support you as you consider your next step. You can begin with something as simple as, “I’m having a hard time at home, and I need someone to talk to.”
211: Help finding community resources - Practical concerns can make an already difficult situation feel even more overwhelming. Where could you stay? How would you afford groceries? What services are available nearby? Call 211 for help finding local resources. The Contra Costa Crisis Center connects residents with information about community programs, including housing and shelter, food assistance and counseling.
If you are in immediate danger, call 911 if you can safely do so. If someone may be monitoring your phone or internet activity, consider using a safer device to seek support. Private browsing does not completely erase your activity.
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District 2 Volunteer Opportunities
Click Boards, Committees, Commissions for more information on volunteering.
Measure X Community Advisory Board - Vacant Seat
Supervisor Andersen is looking for an individual from District 2 who represents broad and diverse voices and perspectives to fill the District 2 Alternate Seat. To be considered for this seat, candidates must either live or work in District 2. The Measure X Community Advisory Board currently meets quarterly.
Measure X is a countywide 20-year, ½ cent sales tax approved by Contra Costa County voters on November 3, 2020. Collection of the tax began on April 1, 2021. The ballot measure language stated that the intent of Measure X is “to keep Contra Costa’s regional hospital open and staffed; fund community health centers, emergency response; support crucial safety-net services; invest in early childhood services; protect vulnerable populations; and for other essential county services.”
Click Measure X Community Advisory Body for more information.
Submit an Application.
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Countywide Volunteer Opportunities
Applications are being accepted for the Public Law Library Board of Trustees, the governing body for the Law Library, with the authority to determine personnel, fiscal, and administrative policies to fulfill the legal information needs of the community. County residents who are members of the State Bar and have an interest in public policy and library administration are encouraged to apply for this non-paid volunteer opportunity. The Board of Trustees hold monthly in-person meetings in Martinez. There is a one-year term vacant. Deadline to apply is November 6th at 5 PM. Click Application to apply.
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AB109 Community Advisory Board
The AB109 CAB currently has vacancies and is seeking community members to serve on the Board. The CAB advises the AB 109 Community Corrections Partnership by providing input on the needs of those reentering our community from incarceration, reviewing implementation and outcomes, supporting community engagement, and recommending programs, services, and funding to better serve the reentry population with the goal of reducing recidivism as well as support rehabilitation. Individuals who bring lived experience, professional expertise, and community insight are encouraged to apply.
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East Bay Regional Park District's Park Advisory Committee
East Bay Regional Parks District Park Advisory Committee (PAC) is seeking individuals interested in park land use to represent the County on the PAC, a 21-member citizens' advisory group that studies issues and makes recommendations and comments on myriad policy issues, such as grazing, dogs, horses and bikes in parks, the Park District budget, naming of park facilities, park land use plans, new concessions, and more. Meetings are held on the fourth Monday of each month at 4 PM. Deadline to apply is November 9th at 5 PM. Click Application to apply.
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Mosquito & Vector Control District Board of Trustees
Contra Costa Mosquito & Vector Control District Board of Trustees are accepting application for one vacancy from County residents age 18 and older. Established in 1927, the District provides public health services by controlling mosquitoes, rats, skunks, yellowjackets and other vectors that can transmit disease. These efforts help protect public health and prevent outbreaks that could disrupt recreational, residential, agricultural and industrial activities. The District Board of Trustees meets at 7 PM on the second Monday of every other month in Concord. Deadline to apply is November 9th at 5 PM. Click Application to apply.
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