SoCo Correspondent delivers the latest news from the County of Sonoma, twice a month, to your email inbox. Subscribe in English or Spanish and share with your friends and neighbors. | | County Executive Officer Rivera to retire | | |
Maria Christina Rivera, the first Latina and bilingual leader to serve as the County of Sonoma’s top executive, announced this week that she plans to retire in early 2026 after nearly three decades in public service.
A Sonoma County native who grew up in Mexico and started her career in Sonoma County government in 1996 as an entry-level management trainee, Rivera rose through the ranks to oversee more than 4,200 employees and a $2.8 billion budget as County Executive Officer.
“When my parents taught me, ‘pon tu granito de arena y deja mejor de lo que lo encontraste,’ they meant ’add your grain of sand and make your contribution that results in leaving things better than you found them,’” Rivera said. “That is what I have tried to do every day.”
Under her leadership, the County has strengthened relationships with city partners, modernized internal systems, expanded community engagement and improved the fiscal sustainability of County government, the largest employer in Sonoma County.
“We will miss her steady leadership, integrity and vision, even as we celebrate her stepping into this next phase of well-earned retirement,” said Supervisor Lynda Hopkins, chair of the Board of Supervisors. “Her career leaves not only a legacy of community improvement but also a lasting inspiration for future generations of leaders.”
Rivera expressed deep appreciation for the County’s hardworking staff, labor partners, community-based organizations and elected leaders. “More than any single initiative, I’ll remember the spirit of this place: people who roll up their sleeves, speak truth with respeto, and believe that government can be both competent and kind,” she said.
The County will soon begin the process of identifying her successor.
| | County updates safety and environmental justice plans to guide future growth | | |
The Board of Supervisors approved two important updates last week to the County’s long-term planning guide, the General Plan. One element will better protect residents from natural disasters and climate change. The other will improve conditions in low-income communities that face higher health risks from pollution and other environmental hazards.
The updated Safety Element of the General Plan sets new goals and policies to protect people and property from wildfires, floods, earthquakes, drought, extreme heat, air pollution and rising sea levels. The plan includes new hazard maps and climate change strategies based on lessons learned from recent fires and floods. It calls for additional evaluation of evacuation routes to inform future land-use regulations in areas at high risk of wildfires and other disasters.
The new Environmental Justice Element sets goals and policies to improve health in 22 disadvantaged communities in unincorporated Sonoma County. It calls for cleaner air and water, better access to parks and open space, more healthy food options, safe housing, and stronger community voices in local decisions.
The two updated elements of the General Plan include more than 120 action steps. Many build on work the County is already doing, such as preparing flood risk studies, planning for cooling centers, and improving infrastructure. Some actions will need new grant funding before they can start. They reflect community input gathered by Permit Sonoma over the last two years during an extensive public outreach campaign that included focus groups, community events, advisory committees and an online survey that generated more than 550 responses.
“This is more than just planning. It is about protecting what we love most: our people and our place,” said Supervisor Lynda Hopkins, chair of the Board of Supervisors. “By adopting the Safety and Environmental Justice elements of the General Plan, we are committing to a future where every resident, regardless of their ZIP code, can live safely, breathe clean air, and be heard in the decisions that shape their communities. This is a big step toward a more resilient, equitable, and sustainable county.”
| | County, employee groups agree to one-year contract extension | | |
The County of Sonoma and 11 unions representing employees have reached agreement on a one-year extension of their current labor contracts, ensuring stability in wages, benefits and working conditions through 2027.
The agreements cover a wide range of County workers, from sheriff’s deputies and prosecutors to engineers, health care workers, road crews and administrative staff. Each group’s current contract will be extended by 12 months past its original expiration date.
Key terms of the extension include a 3 percent cost-of-living adjustment in 2026 and an increase in County contributions to employees’ medical coverage. Each employee will receive a free annual Sonoma County Regional Parks membership, starting next July.
The County government is the largest employer in Sonoma County, with more than 4,200 full and part-time workers. The County proposed the extension to keep employee compensation competitive for one year amid uncertainty in state and federal funding.
“Sonoma County’s workforce is the heart of our public services, from protecting public safety to maintaining our roads and keeping our community healthy,” said Supervisor Lynda Hopkins, chair of the Board of Supervisors. “This agreement reflects our deep appreciation for the people who show up every day to serve our communities with professionalism and care. With all of the financial uncertainties ahead, a one-year extension is the right thing to do at this juncture, both for our employees and for our county.”
The changes do not affect most recent pensions or other post-employment benefits assumptions, and costs will be covered within the County’s existing budget.
| | New 10-year hospital agreements strengthen Sonoma County’s emergency medical system | | |
When someone in Sonoma County calls 911 for a medical emergency, there’s an entire system working behind the scenes to make sure they get the right care, at the right place, as quickly as possible. Last week, the Board of Supervisors approved new 10-year agreements with local hospitals to keep that system running smoothly.
Under these agreements, Providence Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital will continue to serve as the county’s “base” hospital, providing 24/7 medical consultation to paramedics in the field, supporting EMS training, and ensuring quality improvement. Five “receiving” hospitals – Kaiser Permanente Santa Rosa, Sutter Medical Center of Santa Rosa, Healdsburg District Hospital, Sonoma Valley Hospital and Petaluma Valley Hospital – will remain ready to accept ambulance patients, participate in disaster drills and share data to improve care.
Specialized cardiac care is also covered. Memorial Hospital and Sutter Medical Center will continue to serve as regional hubs for the most serious heart attacks, ensuring they have the staff and technology to treat patients quickly and effectively.
The Sonoma County Department of Health Services regulates emergency medical services through the Coastal Valleys EMS Agency. Each hospital reimburses the County for the cost of regulatory oversight, ensuring compliance with state laws without burdening local taxpayers.
“These partnerships ensure that no matter where you are in Sonoma County, you have access to coordinated, high-quality emergency care,” said Supervisor Lynda Hopkins, chair of the Board of Supervisors. “From a paramedic’s first radio call to specialized treatment at the hospital, the system is designed to save lives.”
The agreements will be in effect through June 2035, providing stability and consistency for emergency medical care across the region.
| | Students ride free on Sonoma County Transit | | |
Back-to-school can be a chaotic time of year, but parents have one less thing to worry about: youth and college students ride free on Sonoma County Transit buses.
The program covers trips to and from school, as well as rides to sports practices, afterschool activities, part-time jobs, weekend hangouts or any other place served by the County’s bus system.
Youth ages 5 to 18 and college students can board any Sonoma County Transit bus at no charge simply by showing proof of age or a current student ID. Children under 5 ride free with an adult. The transit system also continues to offer free rides to U.S. veterans and half-fare discounts for seniors, people who are disabled and Medicare card holders.
Sonoma County Transit carries about 3,200 passengers a day on 19 routes that cross the county, from Petaluma to Cloverdale and Monte Rio to Sonoma. The bus system is on track to make half its fleet all-electric by 2026, part of a long-term shift from diesel to natural gas to zero-emission buses.
To plan your trip, download the Transit App or visit sctransit.com for route maps and schedules.
| | New program seeks to reduce homelessness in Sonoma Valley by partnering with landlords | | |
Are you a landlord in the Sonoma Valley? The County wants to work with you to reduce homelessness.
A new initiative launched by HomeFirst in partnership with the Sonoma County Department of Health Services is offering financial incentives of up to $1,000 for landlords who rent units to participants in Sonoma Valley’s first-ever Rapid Rehousing Program. Landlords also receive guaranteed rent payments, tenant mediation services and coverage for unexpected property damage.
The program is designed to help people experiencing homelessness move into permanent housing by assisting them with one-time security deposits and monthly rents. Participants receive help with finding a rental unit, filling out applications and moving in. Case management services connect participants to other support programs, ensuring that assistance is tailored to an individual’s unique needs. In its first year, it aims to place about 13 households — roughly 20 people — into rental homes in Sonoma Valley.
“This program brings hope to our unhoused neighbors in Sonoma Valley by offering a direct path to stability through housing,” said District 1 Supervisor Rebecca Hermosillo, who represents the Sonoma Valley. “By connecting residents with homes and providing the support they need to thrive, we are investing in the dignity and well-being of our entire community. I’m especially grateful to the landlords who are stepping up as partners in this effort; their participation is essential to building a more compassionate and inclusive Sonoma Valley. Together, we are making progress towards ending homelessness in our district and in the county.”
The County’s most recent Point-In-Time Count found that homelessness declined by 23 percent over the past year, but with nearly 2,000 people still unhoused countywide, efforts like this remain essential. The program also supports the City of Sonoma’s Three-Year Action Plan to End Homelessness, which calls for expanded access to affordable and supportive housing.
| | New online hub helps communities protect homes, forests from wildfire | | |
Sonoma County has launched SonomaCountyResilient.org, a new online hub connecting residents, landowners and organizations with the tools, funding and expert guidance needed to reduce wildfire risk and protect local ecosystems.
Part of the County’s Resilient Forests & Watersheds Initiative, the site serves as a one-stop shop for practical information on forest and watershed management. By entering keywords, users can quickly find vetted resources on everything from fuel treatment guides and grant opportunities to watershed restoration strategies and community fire safety programs.
“Our goal is to reduce the threat of wildfires by making our forests and watersheds more resilient to the effects of climate change,” said Supervisor Lynda Hopkins, chair of the Board of Supervisors. “This website gives people a direct pathway to the information, partnerships and resources they need to take action where it matters most.”
The County and local Resource Conservation Districts launched the initiative in 2023 with more than 60 workshops attended by over 1,600 people. These sessions, many now available online, cover topics like prescribed grazing, defensible space, home hardening and shaded fuel breaks. The program builds on the Vegetation Management Grant Program, which has invested $11.4 million in 74 projects since 2021. These projects have reduced fuel loads on more than 5,400 acres, created defensible space around 630 homes, constructed 92 miles of shaded fuel breaks and reduced fuels along 64 miles of roads that serve as critical evacuation routes.
To explore resources, watch workshop recordings and see a map of funded projects, visit SonomaCountyResilient.org.
| | Doran Beach event to raise awareness for missing sea otters | | |
If you have ever stood on a Sonoma County beach and stared into the ocean, you may have seen some spectacular marine life. What you probably didn’t see were sea otters, who have rarely been spotted north of San Francisco since fur traders decimated the population a century ago.
A group of wildlife organizations hopes to reintroduce the species to the North Coast. Learn more about these loveable aquatic critters at Sea Otters Were Here, a fun, family-friendly event hosted by Supervisor Lynda Hopkins’ District 5 office and Sea Otter Savvy.
The Sept. 6 event at Doran Beach will feature interactive booths from local coastal science organizations, businesses and community groups, including the Kashia Band of Pomo Indians, the Marine Mammal Center, Marine Conservation Institute, Defenders of Wildlife, Bodega Bay Oysters and more. Come hear about local coastal restoration efforts and learn about sea otters, their role in healthy coastal ecosystems, and why they are still missing from Northern California waters. One highlight of the day will be the second annual Sea Otter Sand Castle Competition, perfect for creative beachgoers of all ages.
The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the end of Doran Beach Road in Doran Regional Park.
| | Sonoma County has a drug overdose problem. Share life-saving tools on Aug. 30 | | |
An average of 12 people die each month from drug overdoses in Sonoma County, which has the third-highest fatal drug overdose rate in the Bay Area. It doesn’t just impact people with substance use disorders. Many of us have friends or family who have died from overdoses. Some unwittingly ingested fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid that is fatal in small amounts and commonly mixed into other drugs without the user’s knowledge.
To increase understanding of the dangers of overdosing, the Sonoma County Department of Health Services invites the public to attend a free event on Aug. 30 at the Orenda Center in Santa Rosa. Participants will be able to observe a demonstration of the opioid overdose reversal drug Naloxone, which is also sold as Narcan. Strips that allow users to test for the presence of fentanyl in drugs will also be on display.
The family-friendly event, held from 1 to 4 p.m. at 1430 Neotomas Ave., will include music, food, speakers, art, informational booths and a display of classic lowriders from the Latin Rollers Car Club. Join us to help reduce the stigma of substance use, and hear the stories of friends and families who have lost loved ones.
“Overdose does not discriminate; it impacts every neighborhood and every family,” said Shelley Alves, the County’s substance use disorder manager. “This fight doesn’t end. We must remain vigilant, adapt to the changing drug market and stand together as a community. Every voice, every action and every effort matters if we’re going to save lives.”
| | Join the conversation at SoCo Chat | | |
Matt Brown, left, supervising communications specialist, speaks with Alberto Botello and Dora Muro, supervisors with the Sonoma County Department of Child Support Services, during a recording of SoCo Chat.
More than half of children in Sonoma County will live apart from one parent by age 18. Helping them get the financial support they need is the mission of the Sonoma County Department of Child Support Services. Alberto Botello and Dora Muro, supervisors with the department, demystify the process of opening a case, establishing parentage, and accessing payment tools or legal support. Whether you're receiving or paying child support, this episode of SoCo Chat is packed with useful info to help you understand your options and protect your family’s well-being.
Subscribe to SoCo Chat on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music and YouTube, and check out our growing library of episodes in both English and Spanish (Descubre nuestra creciente selección de episodios en inglés y español). Recent guests and topics of discussion have included:
- What do homeless shelters, animal services and public health vending machines have in common? They’re all part of the Sonoma County Department of Health Services. Its new director, Nolan Sullivan, talks about his vision for one of the County’s most critical departments. Learn how federal budget cuts could affect local services and what’s next for homeless programs, mental health services and the animal shelter.
- Most people know the Sonoma County Sheriff's Office enforces the law. Fewer are aware there’s a County watchdog agency to ensure it’s done right. John Alden, director of the Independent Office of Law Enforcement Review and Outreach, describes the role of his team and how it is working to increase transparency while strengthening trust between deputies and the communities they serve.
- People who have actually experienced homelessness have valuable insights on how to shape programs to help others. That concept is at the heart of LEAP, short for the Lived Experience Advisory and Planning Board, which advises the County on how to spend money targeted for homeless services. Rebekah Sammet, chair of the LEAP board, explains the work of this little-known but important panel.
- When the weather heats up, even a short walk or parked car can become dangerous for pets. Emma Diemert from Sonoma County Animal Services shares some helpful tips to keep pets safe, cool and comfortable during the hottest months of the year.
| | What matters to you in your parks? | | |
Sonoma County Regional Parks is developing a strategic plan to guide its priorities through 2028, and we want to hear from you. Your input will help decide how the County invests in our parks and the programs we offer.
The short survey asks what you appreciate most about our parks, such as trails, campgrounds, coastal access and youth programs. It also invites you to suggest priority projects, rate your park experiences and share any needs or concerns.
“This is your chance to help shape the parks you love,” said Bert Whitaker, director of Sonoma County Regional Parks. “Whether you visit every weekend or just a few times a year, your voice matters.”
The deadline to submit comments is Aug. 31.
| | Grow Your Passion: Become a UC Master Gardener in Sonoma County | | |
Do you have a love for gardening and a heart for community service? Turn your passion into purpose by becoming a UC Master Gardener.
UC Master Gardeners are trained educators through the University of California Cooperative Extension who help local residents with everything from composting and irrigation to fire-wise landscaping and plant health. You don’t need to be an expert – just curious, committed and willing to share your time.
New volunteers receive in-depth training from UC experts and local professionals, followed by 50 hours of volunteer service in their first year. Opportunities include teaching workshops, supporting school and community gardens, staffing information booths at farmers’ markets, writing gardening articles, and designing or maintaining demonstration gardens.
Applications are now being accepted for the program’s Class of 2026. The deadline to apply is Sept. 3. Learn more and apply at sonomamg.ucanr.edu.
| | Grants available for Sonoma County arts organizations | | |
Nonprofit arts organizations across Sonoma County have a new opportunity to fund their work in 2026. Creative Sonoma will award $4,000 grants to up to 45 local arts and culture nonprofits, museums and cultural organizations that produce arts programs, services and events.
Applications are now being accepted for the Arts Impact Grants for Organizations program, which aims to support creative and cultural nonprofits while expanding their impact in the community.
“Investing in our nonprofit arts producers ensures that creativity continues to thrive across Sonoma County, enriching the lives of residents and visitors alike while building more vibrant, lively and connected communities,” said Supervisor Lynda Hopkins, chair of the Board of Supervisors.
Applications are due by Oct. 1. Visit creativesonoma.org/aigo for more information, including a link to register for an Aug. 27 online application workshop.
Creative Sonoma, a division of the Sonoma County Economic Development Collaborative, works to support and advance the county’s creative community through grants, professional development and cultural initiatives.
| | Find room to grow with a County job | | |
The County currently has nearly 50 job openings posted on its website. How can you improve your chances of landing one?
Sign up for the next Start Here! class, which provides an overview of the County of Sonoma’s job application, examination and selection processes. The next two-hour class will be held Sept. 10 at 5:30 p.m. on Zoom.
The free class is intended for the public, whether you are looking for a new position now or planning for a future employment opportunity. Participants will learn how to submit a thorough application, best practices for the interview and examination, and much more.
Contact us at careers@sonoma-county.org to register for the Sept. 10 class or sign up for our mailing list to be notified of future classes.
| | Adopt the pet of the week | | |
My name is Romeo. I’m a 2-year-old German shepherd mix who was brought to the shelter in November. I’m currently living with a foster family, but I’m looking for a permanent place to call home. Will you bring me into your family?
Romeo is one of dozens of cats, dogs, rabbits and other animals at Sonoma County Animal Services in need of adoption.
| | Support your community by getting involved | |
Get involved with local government
Make a difference in Sonoma County! Local government thrives when passionate individuals like you step up to serve. There are countless opportunities for you to get involved and play a crucial role in shaping the future of our beloved Sonoma County. Check out the current vacancies:
Your involvement can make a significant impact. Take the first step and explore how you can contribute to a brighter future for Sonoma County.
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