September 4th - Weekly Update

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County Offices Closed for Labor Day


Contra Costa County offices will be closed on Monday, September 7, 2026, in observance of Labor Day. Regular office hours will resume on

Tuesday, September 8.

Shelter & Care Partners Come Together

Supervisor Andersen pictured with Kristi Jourdan, Contra Costa Director Communications & Media, Tish Gallegos, Community Relations/Media Contra Costa County Employment & Human Services Dept., and Dr. Marla Stuart , Director Employment &

Human Services Dept.

Supervisor Andersen joined Contra Costa County Employment & Human Services, the American Red Cross, the Office of Emergency Services, the City of San Ramon, and the Town of Danville for a collaborative Shelter & Care event focused on strengthening coordination and preparedness to support our communities during an emergency.


The event provided an important opportunity for regional partners to work together, share resources, and help ensure we are prepared to provide safe and effective shelter and care when our residents need it most.


A special thank you to the Town of Danville for hosting and to all of the participating agencies and staff for their continued partnership and commitment to keeping our communities safe and prepared.

A wonderful show of community partnership. Thank you to all of the dedicated staff, volunteers, first responders, community organizations, and partners who came together to support the OES Shelter & Care event.

State Budget Includes Funding for

Contra Costa County


Recent state budget legislation includes several new investments benefiting Contra Costa County, local agencies, and community organizations.


The budget includes $1 million for Contra Costa County Fire Protection District (ConFire) for wildfire and evacuation modeling and planning tools, along with an additional $1 million to support ConFire’s Peer Support and Crisis Referral Program.


Other Contra Costa investments include $2 million for the Green Empowerment Zone, funding for the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano to provide diapers and wipes to low-income families, and $2 million for the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District to clear dry grass and brush in Mount Diablo State Park and surrounding neighborhoods.


There is also significant funding for Delta levee improvements and California’s 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline system, including support for crisis call centers and mobile crisis services.


These investments will help strengthen wildfire preparedness, emergency response, behavioral health services, and community resources throughout Contra Costa County.


To read more on recent state budget information visit HERE.

Supervisor Andersen Presents update on Separated Bike Lanes

for the Iron Horse Trail


On Tuesday Supervisor Andersen presented an update to the East Bay Regional Park District Board on the status of the “dual-tracking” pilot project currently being designed for the Iron Horse Trail from Bollinger Canyon Road to Crow Canyon Road in San Ramon. The existing trail will remain exclusively for pedestrians and a new bicycle path will be created adjacent to it. 

 

Supervisor Andersen highlighted the importance of thoughtful planning that balances active-transportation needs with the safety and experience of trail users.

 

While the County owns and manages the Iron Horse Corridor, East Bay Regional Park District is an invaluable partner as they maintain and provide public safety enforcement on the trails along the corridor.  

Rendition of what the separated trails may look like per the current design.


Visit Iron Horse Double Tracking to learn more.

Bicycle and e-bike Safety Enforcement Operation


Working Together for Safer Trails, Streets and Schools, on Thursday, September 17th, the East Bay Regional Park District Police Department will partner with multiple neighboring law enforcement agencies to conduct targeted bicycle and e-bike safety enforcement operations


Participating officers will focus on speed, helmet use, and compliance with applicable traffic laws on city streets and regional trails. The operation will promote safer riding practices, increase voluntary compliance with traffic laws, and address unsafe behaviors that may pose a risk to bicyclists, e-bike riders, pedestrians, and motorists.

Be Alert and Slow Down - Schools are Back in Session!


With the excitement and promise of a new school year upon us, children may not be fully aware of their surroundings as they walk, bicycle, or bus to school. In some cases, students may be going to new schools and be less familiar with the traffic patterns. That is why we are asking parents and other drivers to leave early, stay alert, and be extra cautious in school zones. The first few weeks of school can be extra stressful as everyone gets back into their school time routines. Please be respectful of others and the rules of the road during this critical time.

 

The Public Works Department recognizes that the goal of zero traffic deaths is attainable, and that’s why we are a part of Vision Zero.

Visit Vision Zero to learn how we are working together to improve safety

in our communities.


Click Back-to-School Safety, to learn more ways to help keep our children safe.

To read Press Release visit HERE.

Supervisor Andersen Visits Head Start at

Concord High School


Supervisor Andersen recently had the opportunity to visit the Head Start program at Concord High School and see firsthand, the important work being done to support local students and families.


During the visit, Supervisor Andersen met with staff, learned more about the program’s services, and spent time seeing the welcoming learning environment created for its youngest students. Head Start programs provide early childhood education and valuable resources that help children build a strong foundation for success while also supporting parents and caregivers.


The visit was also an opportunity to recognize and thank the dedicated staff who work each day to help Contra Costa County children learn, grow, and thrive.

Supervisor Andersen pictured with Coleen Martin, Principal of the Crossroads High School Head Start Program; Sarah Reich and Julia Kittle-White of Contra Costa County’s Community Services Bureau (CSB), part of the Employment & Human Services Department; and Donna Lawson, Senior Instructional Assistant at Crossroads.


Visit Head Start to learn more about its programs and services.

Loaves and Fishes Unveils New Mobile Unit


Loaves and Fishes of Contra Costa has unveiled a new mobile unit to help provide nutritious meals and essential services to individuals and families experiencing food insecurity and homelessness.


Funded by the City of Concord, the new vehicle will support Concord’s Mobile Dignity Center, which brings community partners together weekly to provide hot meals, groceries, clothing, hygiene services, housing navigation, mental health support, medical care, and other resources in one convenient location.


The new mobile unit will expand Loaves and Fishes’ ability to reach neighbors in need while supporting a coordinated approach to providing food, services, and dignity throughout the community.


Visit Loaves and Fishes of Contra Costa to learn more.

Statement from Kristin B. Connelly, Clerk-Recorder and Registrar of Voters Regarding Upcoming Election

 

“As the Registrar of Voters, I am closely monitoring developments in the courts that could impact how we serve voters.”

 

We are on track for a safe, free, and fair General Election for Contra Costa County voters conducted in the same manner as the June Primary. Voters should not let news about the court cases prevent them from voting or undermine their trust in the elections process. Visit Elections to learn more about the procedures Contra Costa follows to keep our elections secure.

 

Important milestones for the election are fast-approaching. Voters should look for their County Voter Information Guide in late September. The week of October 5th, which is 29 days before Election Day, voters will begin receiving their ballots. The same day that ballots get mailed, the Elections team will do the following:


  1. The Election Team opens and begins servicing the network of 43 secure drop boxes
  2. The Clerk-Recorder's Office opens for early in-person voting in Martinez, Monday–Friday from 8 AM–5PM.

 

‘Vote your way, with confidence.’”

Firescaping: A UC Master Gardener Webinar

Visit Contra Costa Library for more information and to register.

Change a Child’s Story and Become a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) or Tutor

Visit Child Advocates to learn more and to sign up!

Stream Something Great This Labor Day Weekend!


Looking for a relaxing way to enjoy the long weekend? Kanopy, available through the Contra Costa County Library, offers popular films, fascinating documentaries, and family favorites. All free with your library card!


Grab the popcorn, relax, and enjoy a great film from home.


Visit Kanopy and Hoopla to learn more and download your

free show or movie today!

29th Annual Lafayette Art & Wine Festival

Visit Lafayette Art & Wine Festival for detailed information.

Funding Opportunity for Community-Based Organizations


Contra Costa County's Office of Racial Equity and Social Justice (ORESJ) has released Request for Proposals (RFP) #255 seeking community-based organizations to provide services through the Federal D. Glover Community Wellness Network. The County anticipates awarding up to $1.25 million annually to expand culturally responsive programs supporting behavioral health, family and maternal health, housing navigation, reentry services, preventive health care, and public benefits navigation.


Proposals are due September 4th by 5 PM. Interested organizations should plan on attending the virtual bidders' information sessions, which are offered on August 12th and August 18th.


To read full RFP visit HERE.


Click Office of Racial Equity and Social Justice to learn more.

Nominations Open for Homeless Awareness Month Recognition


Every November, for Homelessness Awareness Month, the Council on Homelessness recognizes outstanding individuals, groups and partnerships for their work addressing homelessness in Contra Costa. We need you to tell us all about the heroes in our communities!


The four categories for nominations are: 

Phoenix Rising

Outstanding Partnership

Outstanding Volunteer

Outstanding Housing Provider


Click the category above, to nominate




All nominees will receive recognition for their valuable work within the Homeless Continuum of Care. Nominations are due Friday, September 11th by 5 PM. 


Email contracostacoc@cchealth.org or text or call 925-464-0152 with any questions


Click H3 to learn more about our homeless continuum of care.

Click Exchange Club San Ramon Valley to learn more.

Lamorinda CERT Basic Class Series


The Fall 2026 class series is currently accepting registrations. It will run from Tuesday, September 15th through November 10th at the Lafayette Community Center.


Fall Class Schedule 


9/15 - Introduction & Preparedness

9/22 - CERT Organization and Communications

9/29 - Fire Safety

10/6 - Disaster Medical Operations - Part 1

10/13 - Disaster Medical Operations - Part 2

10/20 - Light Search and Rescue Operations

10/27 - Cribbing, Mini Medical Drills & Pet Disaster Preparedness

11/3 - Drill from 6-10pm at the ConFire Training Center, Concord

11/10 - Disaster Psychology & Terrorism and CERT Graduation


Click Lamorinda CERT for more information and to register.

Safe Center Welcoming Week Events

There are many exciting opportunities to connect, learn, and celebrate throughout District 2!


September 7th

Walnut Creek Summer Concert - ParKoncert


September 10th

2026 Autos of Alamo


September 11th

SRV Exchange Club - 9/11 Remembrance


September 12th

Walnut Creek Movies Under the Stars - How to Train Your Dragon


September 16th

John Muir Webinar Series

Senator Grayson's Senior Scam Stopper


September 17th

Orinda Community Park Concert - Tom and the Broken Hearts


September 19th & 20th

Lafayette Art & Wine Festival

Coastal Clean Up Day


September 25th & 26th

Walnut Creek Oktoberfest


October 1st

Orinda Community Park Concert - The Freestone Peaches


October 3rd

Youth Heart Screen Event SRVHS


October 10th

Contra Costa County Fire Protection District Open House


October 11th

San Ramon Valley Run for Education


October 18th

Lafayette Res Run for Education


Mark your calendars and join in these wonderful community gatherings

happening across our district!


Stay Connected with Your Community - Be sure to check your local community, town, or city calendar regularly for upcoming events. It’s a great way to stay informed, get involved, and support the activities that

bring neighbors together.

District 2 Volunteer Opportunity


Click Boards, Committees, Commissions for more information on volunteering.

 

Behavioral Health Board

Supervisor Andersen is seeking applicants from District 2 for seats on the Contra Costa County Behavioral Health Board. The Board advises the County on mental health and substance use services, reviews programs and policies, promotes community involvement, and provides recommendations to improve the local behavioral health system.


Click Behavioral Health Board for more information on the duties and expectations of Board Members.


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Alamo Lafayette Cemetery District

Term Expiring

An Independent California Special District, the Board of Trustees operates the Alamo-Lafayette Cemetery District. The District includes parts of Lafayette, Walnut Creek, Alamo, Danville, and Diablo. The Board is made up of three trustees, who serve 4-year terms. Trustees must reside within the district.


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Emergency Medical Care Committee

Term Expiring

Reviews the County's ambulance and other emergency services as required in State law; and serves in an advisory capacity to the County Board of Supervisors, and to the County EMS Agency, on matters relating to emergency medical services.

Submit an Application.

Countywide Volunteer Opportunity


Council on Homelessness


The Contra Costa Council on Homelessness (COH) is seeking candidates to apply for the 8 seats opening at the end of this year. We are looking for people willing to bring their time and talents to the important work we are doing to end homelessness in Contra Costa County. The following seats have terms expiring: Affordable Housing Developer, Community Member, Education services Representative, Lived Experience Advisor, Health Care Representative, Homeless Service Provider, Veterans Services Representative, Workforce Development Representative. Applications are due by 5 PM on September 25th.


To apply, please fill out the Supplemental Application and the County Application.


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In-Home Support Services Public Authority Advisory Committee (IHSS)


IHSS Public Authority was created to give advice and assistance to the Board of Supervisors, the IHSS Program, and Public Authority Staff. The committee meets once per month in Pleasant Hill and Committee members are reimbursed for the cost of their public transportation mileage.


There are five open positions for current or former IHSS recipients, as follows:

Consumer Seat 2 - under 60 years of age

Consumer Seats 1 & 2 - over 60 years

Consumer Seats 1 & 2 - any age


Please visit IHSS for more information.


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Fish and Wildlife Committee


Applications are now being accepted two At-Large Member Seats on the Contra Costa County Fish and Wildlife Committee. Applicants must be residents of Contra Costa County. Applications are due by Monday, November 9th, at 5 PM.


The Fish and Wildlife Committee meets six times per year, generally on the third Wednesday of the month from 3-5 PM in Martinez.


Click F&WC for more information.


Submit an Application.