Newsom announces bills he’s signed, vetoed during July 15, 2024 Legislative Update
SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom today, Monday, July 15, 2024, announced that he has signed the following bills, including one by a legislator who represents portions of Western Contra Costa County:
- AB 2755 by Assemblymember Buffy Wicks (D-Oakland) – Claims against the state: appropriation. This bill appropriates $523,000 from the General Fund to the Attorney General for the payment of claims, settlements, or judgments against the state arising from 3 specified actions. The sum of $150,000 was allocated for the payment of claims, settlements, or judgments against the state arising from Gupta v. Bonta (United States District Court, Northern District of California, September 6, 2023, No. 21-cv-9045). The bill also included $193,000 for the payment of claims, settlements, or judgments against the state arising from Right to Life of Central California v. Bonta (United States District Court, Eastern District of California, September 5, 2023, No. 21-cv-1512). Both cased challenged SB 742, “a new California law that would curtail free speech around virtually every clinic, hospital, and pharmacy in the state.”
An additional $180,000 was allocated for the payment of claims, settlements, or judgments against the state arising from Progressive Democrats for Social Justice, et al. v. Bonta (United State District Court, Northern District of California, August 30, 2023, No. 21-cv-03875). The Santa Clara County Democratic Club state law that prevented local government employees soliciting political contributions from their coworkers, when state government employees were allowed.
Wicks represents District 14 which includes the Western Contra Costa County cities and communities of El Cerrito, Hercules, Pinole, Richmond, Rodeo San Pablo, El Sobrante, Kensington, Montalvin Manor, North Richmond, Rollingwood and Tara Hills
- AB 375 by Assemblymember Laurie Davies (R-Laguna Niguel) – Food delivery platforms: disclosure of delivery drivers’ identity.
- AB 1782 by Assemblymember Tri Ta (R-Westminster) – Redevelopment: successor agencies: Low and Moderate Income Housing Asset Fund.
- AB 1790 by Assemblymember Damon Connolly (D-San Rafael) – California State University: sexual harassment: implementing California State Auditor recommendations.
- AB 1870 by Assemblymember Liz Ortega (D-San Leandro) – Notice to employees: legal services.
- AB 1881 by Assemblymember Laurie Davies (R-Laguna Niguel) – California Coastal Commission: scientific panel expertise: coastal erosion.
- AB 1900 by Assemblymember Dr. Akilah Weber (D-San Diego) – Consumer refunds: nondisclosure agreements.
- AB 1903 by Assemblymember Brian Maienschein (D-San Diego) – International commercial arbitration: procedure.
- AB 1916 by Assemblymember Brian Maienschein (D-San Diego) – Self-service storage facilities: abandoned personal property.
- AB 1924 by Assemblymember Stephanie Nguyen (D-Elk Grove) – Sacramento Regional Transit District.
- AB 1935 by Assemblymember Blanca Rubio (D-Baldwin Park) – Gaming: Indian Gaming Special Distribution Fund.
- AB 1948 by Assemblymember Anthony Rendon (D-Lakewood) – Homeless multidisciplinary personnel teams.
- AB 1955 by Assemblymember Christopher Ward (D-San Diego) – Support Academic Futures and Educators for Today’s Youth Act.
- AB 1988 by Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi (D-Torrance) – Stray animals: availability for adoption or release.
- AB 2001 by Assemblymember James Gallagher (R-Yuba City) – Political Reform Act of 1974.
- AB 2018 by Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez (D-Pomona) – Controlled substances: fenfluramine.
- AB 2049 by Assemblymember Blanca Pacheco (D-Downey) – Motions for summary judgment: filing deadlines.
- AB 2114 by Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks) – Building standards: exterior elevated elements: inspection.
- AB 2227 by Assemblymember Josh Hoover (R-Folsom) – Unemployment insurance: violations.
- AB 2261 by Assemblymember Eduardo Garcia (D-Coachella) – Transportation: federal funding: tribes.
- AB 2275 by Assemblymember Mike Fong (D-Alhambra) – Trustees of the California State University: appointees.
- AB 2287 by Assemblymember Phillip Chen (R-Yorba Linda) – Inuit.
- AB 2299 by Assemblymember Heath Flora (R-Modesto) – Labor Commissioner: whistleblower protections: model list of rights and responsibilities.
- AB 2325 by Assemblymember Alex Lee (D-San Jose) – San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit District: officers and employees: designation and appointment.
- AB 2393 by Assemblymember Diane Dixon (R-Newport Beach) – Tidelands and submerged lands: County of Orange and Newport Bay: franchises or leases.
- AB 2474 by Assemblymember Tom Lackey (R-Palmdale) – Retirement: County Employees Retirement Law of 1937: benefit payments and overpayments.
- AB 2582 by Assemblymember Gail Pellerin (D-Santa Cruz) – Elections omnibus bill.
- AB 2608 by Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel (D-Encino) – Postsecondary education: sexual violence and sexual harassment: training.
- AB 2634 by Assemblymember Kevin McCarty (D-Sacramento) – Sacramento Regional Transit District.
- AB 2689 by Assemblymember Dr. Jasmeet Bains (D-Bakersfield) – Personal income taxes: California Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementia Research Voluntary Tax Contribution Fund.
- AB 2730 by Assemblymember Tom Lackey (R-Palmdale) – Sexual assault: medical evidentiary examinations.
- AB 2731 by Assemblymember Wendy Carrillo (D-Los Angeles) – California Pollution Control Financing Authority: eligible projects.
- AB 2767 by Assemblymember Miguel Santiago (D-Los Angeles) – Financial Solvency Standards Board: membership.
- AB 2770 by the Committee on Public Employment and Retirement – Public employees’ retirement.
- AB 2932 by Assemblymember Joe Patterson (R-Rocklin) – Pupil instruction: sextortion prevention.
- AB 2979 by Assemblymember Mike Fong (D-Alhambra) – Income taxation: exclusion: victim compensation.
- AB 3197 by Assemblymember Tom Lackey (R-Palmdale) – Elections.
- AB 3286 by the Committee on Privacy and Consumer Protection – California Consumer Privacy Act of 2018: monetary thresholds: grants.
- AB 3287 by the Committee on Revenue and Taxation – Electronic notifications.
- AB 3288 by the Committee on Revenue and Taxation – Property taxation: tax-defaulted property sales: objections and excess proceeds.
- AB 3289 by the Committee on Revenue and Taxation – Taxation: tax expenditures: information.
- SB 948 by Senator Monique Limόn (D-Santa Barbara) – Political Reform Act of 1974: contribution limitations. – Affects candidates for Contra Costa County-wide offices and supervisor.
- SB 962 by Senator Steve Padilla (D-San Diego) – San Diego Unified Port District: public employee pension benefits.
- SB 1009 by Senator Brian Dahle (R-Bieber) – Mount Shasta Fish Hatchery: lease.
- SB 1044 by Senator Kelly Seyarto (R-Murrieta) – Bingo: overhead costs.
- SB 1097 by Senator John Laird (D-Santa Cruz) – Veterans: military and veterans: gender-neutral terms.
- SB 1172 by Senator Shannon Grove (R-Bakersfield) – Personal income tax: voluntary contributions: California Breast Cancer Research Voluntary Tax Contribution Fund and California Cancer Research Voluntary Tax Contribution Fund.
- SB 1189 by Senator Monique Limόn (D-Santa Barbara) – County Employees Retirement Law of 1937: county board of retirement.
- SB 1215 by the Committee on Governmental Organization – Fire protection: Office of the State Fire Marshal: State Board of Fire Services: membership: quorum.
- SB 1224 by Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh (R-Yucaipa) – Alcoholic beverage control: on-sale general license: County of Riverside.
- SB 1257 by Senator Catherine Blakespear (D-Encinitas) – Geographic Managed Care Pilot Project: County of San Diego: advisory board.
- SB 1320 by Senator Aisha Wahab (D-Silicon Valley) – Mental health and substance use disorder treatment.
- SB 1464 by Senator Angelique Ashby (D-Sacramento) – Health facilities: cardiac catheterization laboratory services.
- SB 1495 by Senator Scott Wilk (R-Santa Clarita) – Tied-house restrictions: for-profit cemeteries: City of Los Angeles.
- SB 1519 by the Committee on Governmental Organization – Gambling Control Act.
- SB 1520 by the Committee on Natural Resources and Water – Public resources.
- SB 1529 by the Committee on Military and Veterans Affairs – Veterans homes.
- SB 1530 by the Committee on Military and Veterans Affairs – Veterans homes.
The Governor also announced that he has vetoed the following bills:
- AB 2570 by Assemblymember Joe Patterson (R-Rocklin) – Department of Housing and Community Development: annual report: Homeless Housing, Assistance, and Prevention program. A veto message can be found here.
- AB 2708 by Assemblymember Jim Patterson (R-Fresno) – Office of Broadband and Digital Literacy: reports. A veto message can be found here.
For full text of the bills, visit: http://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov.
Read MoreTeleCARE improves access to care, resources through video visits
by Monique Binkley Smith, Media Relations Manager, Sutter Health
The distraught woman arrived at an Antioch, California hospital emergency department with nothing: Her car, wallet and cell phone were stolen by her abusive boyfriend. She was treated for her injuries, but many victims of interpersonal violence can’t or won’t go to the hospital because they are afraid, lack access to transportation or childcare or, like the woman, their abuser has taken their ID.
And the problem goes beyond accessing care for injuries. Many interpersonal violence survivors and their children haven’t been seen by a doctor for preventive care or for treatment of a chronic condition such as high blood pressure, diabetes or asthma.
That’s where a unique collaborative telehealth service in Contra Costa County, called TeleCARE, comes in. The program safely connects survivors of interpersonal violence with the healthcare services they desperately need including medical care, mental health counseling, prescriptions and even dental care –all at no-cost to the patient.
Now in its fourth year, TeleCARE was founded by Dr. William Francis, a Sutter Delta Medical Center emergency medicine physician with Emeryville-based Vituity medical group, and Contra Costa Family Justice Center.
“At Contra Costa Family Justice Center, our priority is to help get people to safety. Once they’re safe, we’re able to connect them through the TeleCARE program to the healthcare services they and their children need. Whether it’s for traumatic injuries suffered at the hands of their aggressor or addressing long-term health issues, TeleCARE can help,” says Susun Kim, director of Contra Costa Family Justice Center.
Dr. Francis developed TeleCARE as a way to provide convenient –and safe— access to healthcare for people he treats in the emergency department for injuries sustained at the hands of their aggressors but who also need preventive care and treatment for illnesses and chronic medical conditions. And he wanted a way to offer care to survivors who were too frightened to come to the hospital at all.
“The goal of TeleCARE is to improve healthcare for people suffering interpersonal violence with no need for proof of insurance or requirement for ability to pay before connecting them with a clinician,” says Dr. Francis. “These are people who have immediate need of care for injuries or illnesses but who also often need care to manage their chronic conditions. It can be extremely difficult for them to access care in the traditional model because their aggressor prevents it.”
Dr. Francis says many survivors of interpersonal violence refuse to be taken to the hospital by ambulance when in distress, often because they lack childcare or because of the cost on top of the fear of potentially being revictimized by their aggressors.
Now, instead of just hoping survivors get the care they need, even if they refuse transport to the hospital, Contra Costa EMS responders give them a TeleCARE business card so they can arrange for a video visit with a provider when it’s safe for them to do so.
Seven private and public organizations in Contra Costa County now provide support to TeleCARE through the Green Light Collaborative. Thanks to this broad-based community support, TeleCARE has expanded its offerings to help survivors solve problems like obtaining prescriptions for themselves and their children and finding reliable transportation to work.
Dr. Francis is quick to point out how pervasive—and devastating—interpersonal violence is, with widespread impact on the entire community, especially as a primary cause of homelessness. The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence reports one in three women and one in four men have experienced interpersonal violence from a partner, and according to the National Network to End Domestic Violence, domestic violence is the leading cause of homelessness for women and their children.
“I’m so proud that as a physician practicing at Sutter, my colleagues and I are part of a network that works collaboratively with the community. Together, we can tackle the array of areas where we can improve access to care for underserved populations like survivors of domestic violence,” says Dr. Francis.
TeleCARE is made possible through grant funding, making the program rare, if not entirely unique, in its reach, accessibility and scope of collaboration throughout Contra Costa County. Part of the not-for-profit Sutter Health network of care, Sutter Delta Medical Center works to improve outcomes beyond its walls through investment in community partnerships and programs such as TeleCARE and the Green Light Collaborative.
Need help? County residents can access TeleCARE on-site at Contra Costa Family Justice Center, or call one of three Family Justice Center locations in Contra Costa County for an appointment:
Richmond: (510) 974-7200
Concord: (925) 521-6366
Antioch: (925) 281-0970
Read MorePossible DUI
By CHP Contra Costa
Late last night, Sunday, July 14, 2024, at approximately 10:55 pm, CHP Contra Costa was advised of a crash on I-680 southbound, just north of Concord Avenue. Our preliminary investigation indicates a black Honda Civic – occupied by a male adult (driver) and a female adult (passenger) – was involved in a solo vehicle crash verses the right concrete barrier on I-680 southbound, just south of SR-4. As a result of this crash the Honda deflected off the right concrete barrier and came to rest blocking the 3 and 4 lanes, just north of Concord Avenue. After the Honda came to rest, the driver exited his vehicle.
While out of his vehicle, the driver was struck by a black Chevrolet Tahoe traveling on I-680 southbound, occupied by a female adult (driver) and a male adult (passenger). This impact pushed the driver of the Honda further south and into the roadway. Shortly after, the driver of the Honda was struck a second time by a silver Toyota Corolla – driven and solely occupied by a male adult. Upon crashing into the driver of the Honda, the Corolla veered left, crashed into the concrete center divider, overturned, and came to rest blocking lanes.
CHP Officers arrived on scene, along with other emergency services, and worked together to control the scene.
The driver of the Corolla sustained major injuries as a result of this crash and was subsequently transported to the hospital. The driver of the Honda sustained fatal injuries as a result of the multiple crashes and was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Upon further investigation it was determined the driver of the Honda may have been DUI. All other parties involved were properly seat-belted in their respective vehicles.
This crash is still under investigation. If anyone witnessed it or the events leading up to it, please contact CHP Contra Costa in Martinez, (925) 646-4980 or email your contact information to 320Investigations@chp.ca.gov to be contacted by the investigating officer.
Read MoreBART continued in 2023 to pioneer sustainability initiatives aimed at enhancing rider experience while prioritizing environmental stewardship. With a legacy rooted in forward-thinking transportation solutions, BART reaffirmed its commitment to reducing carbon footprints and advancing sustainable transit practices. The accomplishments of 2023 are detailed in the annual Sustainability Report, officially presented to the Board of Directors on July 11, 2024.
“BART’s sustainability efforts were all about innovation in 2023,” said BART Board President Bevan Dufty. “We are dedicated to integrating creative solutions that not only improve the rider experience, our immediate priority, but also emphasize long-term sustainability.”
Established over fifty years ago with a vision to alleviate regional traffic congestion through eco-friendly transit options, BART has continually evolved its practices to reflect contemporary environmental standards. Notably, engineers initially opted to power trains with electricity rather than fuel, a decision that laid the foundation for ongoing sustainability achievements.
In a poignant farewell to its legacy fleet, BART hosted a memorable “retirement party” in February 2024, marking the culmination of efforts to retire older vehicles. Thousands of attendees gathered to bid farewell to the trains that had served millions of passengers over the years. The decommissioned cars are being repurposed for various projects, including a BART car short-term rental in the Sierra Nevada and a youth bike shop and clubhouse in East Oakland, demonstrating BART’s commitment to sustainability beyond transit operations.
The introduction of new, energy-efficient train cars has furthered BART’s sustainability goals, boasting a 7% reduction in energy consumption compared to previous train car models. By running shorter trains during off-peak hours, BART has achieved significant energy savings. 88% of BART’s electricity comes from greenhouse gas-free sources like solar, wind, and hydropower.
“Our shorter trains not only save energy and reduce costs but also enhance safety and efficiency in maintenance,” BART General Manager Bob Powers added. “These innovations underscore our holistic approach to sustainability across all facets of our operations.”
In addition to transit improvements, BART expanded its Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) program, constructing 531 new housing units near BART stations. Projects like the Gateway at Millbrae Station and the Upper Yard at Balboa Park Station not only address regional housing needs but also promote sustainable urban development and economic revitalization.
Highlighting unique environmental initiatives, BART’s Sheep and Goat Fire Mitigation program has grown substantially, utilizing over 500 grazers to mitigate fire risks across its properties. Meanwhile, the Falconry-Based Nuisance Bird Control program, now implemented at 12 stations, effectively manages pigeon populations through pesticide-free methods.
For more information on BART’s sustainability initiatives and ongoing projects, visit bart.gov/sustainability.
Read MoreThe City of Lafayette has sought opportunities to combine relatively small projects with the City of Orinda, Town of Moraga, and Contra Costa County to take on larger, less expensive projects for each public agency.
This ultimately means more efficient use of taxpayer dollars, improved infrastructure, and a better overall quality of life for residents in each participating community.
Through these joint efforts, the cities can use economies of scale for construction projects and save money because the contractor’s overhead becomes a smaller percentage of the overall project costs.
“This can take the form of lower unit prices for asphalt pavement and surface seal materials or an increase in the number of bidders, thus a more competitive bidding environment,” explained Mike Moran, the Director of Engineering and Public Works for the City of Lafayette, CA.
Lafayette has collaborated with the City of Orinda, Town of Moraga, and Contra Costa County to combine smaller projects into one large project that is more cost-effective for each public agency. Two recent examples of such projects include the following:
- 2019 Surface Seal Project with the town of Moraga; Lafayette spent $391,000, and Moraga spent $1.5 million.
- 2022 Surface Seal Project with the town of Moraga and Contra Costa County; Lafayette spent $2 million, Moraga spent $418,000, and the County spent $60,000.
“By collaborating with our neighboring cities and the County, we spent less money and fostered stronger working relationships with our neighbors,” says Lafayette Engineering Services Manager Matt Luttropp.
According to City Manager Niroop Srivatsa, the City continuously seeks ways to save money and secure more. “Additional funding is necessary to maintain the City’s infrastructure, with a particular focus on road maintenance needs,” Srivatsa concludes.
Lafayette is a charming small community located in Contra Costa County, 30 miles from The City of Oakland. It’s known for its beautiful green hills, excellent schools, and miles of hiking trails, making it an attractive place to live. The City has a population of more than 25,000 highly educated residents, with 75.2% of them holding a bachelor’s degree or higher. Additionally, 73.6% of the homes in Lafayette are owner-occupied. The median home value is $1,914,700, while the median household income is $219,250. The total area of the city is 15.22 square miles.
For more information, email LafayetteListens@LoveLafayette.org, call (925) 299-3206 , or visit www.LoveLafayette.org.
Read MoreGet ready for a wild night out! Tickets are on sale now for Wild@Night: Under the Stars, our 21+ event at Lindsay Wildlife on Friday, August 16, 2024, from 6 to 9 p.m. Come sip beer and mingle with cool animal or enjoy a glass of wine to the sound of live music. Your ticket includes two free drink tickets and a commemorative glass, with additional drink tickets available day-of. Whether you’re into encountering wildlife, dancing under the stars, or just a good time, this indoor/outdoor event is the place to be. Don’t miss out on the most fun you can have with wildlife!
The night includes:
- Live outdoor music featuring The Groove Doctors
- Beer Tables featuring selections from Headlands Brewing Co.and Calicraft Brewing Co.
- Wine Tables featuring wines fromCass Winery
- Commemorative pint and wine glasses
- Up-close encounters with Lindsay animal ambassadors.
- Special wildlife guests courtesy of our partners Conservation Ambassadors
- Food truck
- Axe Throwing
- Photo booth
- Stargazing
- Games and much more!
This is a 21 and over event. IDs will be checked at the door.
For tickets visit Wild@Night: Under the Stars! 2024 – Lindsay Wildlife Experience.
The Lindsay Wildlife Experience is the country’s first wildlife hospital, a zoological organization, and an educational museum specializing in native California wildlife. Every year our veterinarians, husbandry experts, biologists, and teachers treat more than 5,000 wild animal patients, care for the 70 animal ambassadors that call Lindsay home and educate approximately 100,000 people.
The Lindsay Wildlife Experience is located at 1931 First Avenue in Walnut Creek. For more information call (925) 935-1978.
Read MoreBy Kelly Kalfsbeek, Community & Media Relations Coordinator, PIO, Contra Costa County Public Works Department
Alamo, CA – Contra Costa County Public Works will begin construction of the Livorna Road Shoulder Widening Project on Monday, July 15, 2024, and continue through Friday, August 2, 2024, barring unforeseen circumstances. Work will take place between 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, weather permitting. The work consists of roadway shoulder widening along a 200-foot segment of Livorna Road between Douglas Court and Paseo De Sol.
Traffic control will be used. Message boards will alert drivers about the work. Drivers should expect delays of up to 10 minutes through the construction zone and consider alternative routes during working hours.
Funding for this project is provided by a local Transportation Development Act grant and Gas Tax Funds. For more information visit: https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/9876/Livorna-Road-Shoulder-Widening
About Contra Costa County Public Works Department:
Contra Costa County Public Works Department (CCCPWD) maintains over 660 miles of roads, 150 miles of streams, channels, and other drainage and over 150 County buildings throughout Contra Costa County. CCCPWD provides services such as Parks and Recreation, Sandbag Distribution and Flood Control throughout unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County. CCCPWD operates two airports, Buchanan Field Airport in Concord, and Byron Airport in Byron. For more information about CCCPWD, please visit us at: www.cccpublicworks.org
Read MoreSeats on city councils, school boards, special districts up for election throughout Contra Costa County
Special instructions for Lafayette City Council candidates
By Allen D. Payton
The nomination period for local offices including city councils, school districts and special districts will open on Monday, July 15, 2024, and nomination papers will be available for candidates running for office. The nomination period runs through 5:00 pm Friday, August 9, 2024. The election will be consolidated with the statewide General Election on Tuesday, November 5th, 2024.
Papers for offices that are up for election will be available at the Contra Costa Elections Office, 555 Escobar Street in Martinez or at each city clerk’s office for city offices.
“The 2024 General Election has officially begun,” said Kristin B. Connelly, Contra Costa Registrar of Voters. “Candidate Filing begins Monday July 15, and our Candidate Services team is ready to help our residents who are looking to serve their communities in an elected position.”
If an incumbent does not file to run for office by the deadline on August 9th, the filing period for that office will extend until 5:00 pm on Wednesday, August 14, 2024.
Interested candidates can schedule an appointment through email at candidate.services@vote.cccounty.us or by calling 925-335-7800. Walk-ins are accepted, but service is subject to the availability of staff. Appointments are available on weekdays from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. Filing documents and information will be provided to interested constituents at their appointment. The process takes 20 minutes.
For further information on the General Election and key dates, go to www.contracostavote.gov
The following offices are up for election in November:
City Councils
Antioch – Mayor, City Clerk, City Treasurer, Districts 2 & 3 Councilmembers
Brentwood – Mayor, Districts 1 & 3 Councilmembers
Clayton – 3 Councilmembers
Concord – Districts 2 & 4 Councilmembers
Danville – 3 Councilmembers
El Cerrito – 3 Councilmembers
Hercules – 3 Councilmembers
Lafayette – 3 full-term, 4-year Councilmembers; 1 partial term, 2-year Councilmember
Martinez – Treasurer, District 2 & 3 Councilmembers
Moraga – 3 Councilmembers
Oakley – Districts 1, 3 & 5 Councilmembers
Orinda – 2 Councilmembers
Pinole – Treasurer, 2 Councilmembers
Pittsburg – 2 Councilmembers
Pleasant Hill – Districts 1, 2 & 5 Councilmembers
Richmond – Districts 1, 5 & 6 Councilmembers
San Pablo – 3 Councilmembers
San Ramon – Mayor, Districts 1 & 3 Councilmembers
Walnut Creek – 3 Councilmembers
School Districts
Acalanes Union High School District – 2 Governing Board Members
Antioch Unified School District – Areas 1, 3 & 4 Governing Board Members
Brentwood Union School District – 2 Governing Board Members
Byron Union School District – 2 Governing Board Members (4-year terms), 1 Governing Board Member (2-year term)
Canyon Elementary School District – 2 Governing Board Members
Chabot-Las Positas Community College – Ward 7 Governing Board Member (Shared with Alameda which is county of jurisdiction)
Contra Costa County Board of Education – Areas 1 & 3 Governing Board Members
Contra Costa Community College District Wards 2 & 5 Governing Board Members
John Swett Unified School District – 3 Governing Board Members
Knightsen Elementary School District – 3 Governing Board Members
Lafayette School District – 2 Governing Board Members
Liberty Union High School District – Areas 1 & 2 Governing Board Members (4-year terms), Area 4 Governing Board Member (2-year term)
Livermore Valley Joint Unified School District – 2 Governing Board Members (Shared with Alameda which is county of jurisdiction)
Martinez Unified School District – Areas 1, 2 & 4 – 1 Governing Board Members
Moraga School District – 2 Governing Board Members
Mt. Diablo Unified School District – Areas 3 & 5 Governing Board Members
Oakley Union Elementary School District – Areas 1 & 2 Governing Board Members
Orinda Union School District – 2 Governing Board Members
Pittsburg Unified School District – 2 Governing Board Members
San Ramon Valley Unified School District – Areas 2 & 3 Governing Board Members
Walnut Creek School District – 2 Governing Board Members (4-year terms), 1 Governing Board Member (2-year term)
West Contra Costa Unified School District – Districts 1, 2 & 3 Governing Board Members
Special Districts (Nomination Papers issued by County Elections Division)
Alameda-Contra Costa Transit District – Ward 1 Director (Shared with Alameda which is the county of jurisdiction)
Ambrose Recreation & Park District – 2 Directors
Bethel Island Municipal Improvement District – 3 Directors
Byron-Bethany Irrigation District – Division 2 Director
Byron Sanitary District – 3 Directors
Castle Rock County Water District – 3 Directors
Central Contra Costa Sanitary District – Divisions 1, 4 & 5 Directors (4-year terms), Division 3 Director (2-year term)
Contra Costa Water District – Divisions 3, 4 & 5 Directors
Crockett Community Services District – 2 Directors (4-year terms), 1 Director (2-year term)
Diablo Community Services District – 2 Directors
Diablo Water District – Wards 1 & 5 Directors
Town of Discovery Bay Community Services District – 2 Directors
Dublin San Ramon Services District – Division 1 Director
East Bay Municipal Utility District – Ward 1 Director (4-year term), Ward 2 Director (2-year term)
East Bay Regional Park District – Wards 1 & 2 Directors (Shared with Alameda which is county of jurisdiction)
East Contra Costa Irrigation District – Divisions 2, 3 & 5 Directors
Green Valley Recreation & Park District – 2 Directors
Ironhouse Sanitary District – 3 Directors
Kensington Fire Protection District – 2 Directors
Kensington Police Protection & Community Services District – 2 Directors
Moraga-Orinda Fire Protection District – Divisions 2 & 5 Director
Mt. View Sanitary District – Area 1 Director (2-year term) Areas 3, 4 & 5 Directors (4-year term)
Pleasant Hill Recreation & Park District – 2 Directors
Rodeo-Hercules Fire Protection District – 2 Directors
Rodeo Sanitary District 3 Directors
San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit District (BART) – District 1 Director, Districts 3 & 5 Directors (Shared with Alameda which is county of jurisdiction)
San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District – 3 Directors
Stege Sanitary District – 2 Directors
West County Wastewater District – Divisions 2 & 4 Directors
See list of offices currently up for election here.
Lafayette
In Lafayette, the nomination period will close on Friday, August 9, 2024, at 4:00 p.m. If nomination documents from any incumbent is not filed by that date, the nomination period shall be extended until Wednesday, August 14, 2024, at 4:00 p.m. During this extension period, no incumbent is allowed to file nomination documents.
For the Lafayette City Council, appointments for obtaining and filing nomination papers are required and can be requested by emailing City Clerk Joanne Robbins jrobbins@lovelafayette.org or call 925-284-1968. The Lafayette City Clerk’s office is located at 3675 Mt. Diablo Blvd., second floor, Lafayette. Appointments will be scheduled during the hours of 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Starting July 15, information on individuals who have been issued nomination papers will be posted on www.lovelafayette.org/election.
Kristin B. Connelly, County Clerk-Recorder and Registrar of Voters, Dawn Kruger, Civic Outreach and Engagement Specialist, Contra Costa Clerk-Recorder-Elections Department and Suzanne Iarla, Communications Analyst/PIO, City of Lafayette contributed to this report.
Read More$21.5 million in public funds for 540 micro-apartments for homeless adults with disabilities; on-site services provided
Originally built by grandfather, renovated by grandson 56 years later
By Contra Costa Health
Contra Costa County Supervisor John Gioia and Contra Costa Health (CCH) hosted a grand opening for El Portal Place, a 54-unit micro-unit apartment building for homeless adults with disabilities, on Saturday, July 13, 2024. The project is the second completed in Contra Costa using state Homekey project funding, as well as funding from the county’s Measure X half-cent sales tax. The event began with prepared comments by elected and CCH homeless services officials followed by guided site tours. will be on hand to interview regarding the project.
Contra Costa County has transformed the vacant office building at 2555 El Portal Drive to serve some of the county’s most vulnerable residents with permanent supportive housing that includes onsite services such as case management, community supports, and referrals to services such as behavioral health, benefits assistance, and healthcare.
According to Overaa Construction, the builder responsible for the renovations, the design-build, adaptive reuse project reimagined an old, two-level, 27,000 square-foot office building as small homes for 60 individuals. Jerry Overaa built the original office building in 1968 and fifty-six years later, his grandson, Jared, spearheaded its conversion. The architectural design for the project was by Studio T Square and Base Landscape architects. (See project video)
“El Portal Place is an innovative project connecting people in desperate need with quality housing and services to improve their health,” said District 1 Supervisor Gioia, whose district includes San Pablo. “We appreciate our strong partnership with the City of San Pablo, and the continued support from Governor Gavin Newsom. These homes help us achieve equity and improved health for county residents.”
The facility will become the first built by the county specifically for residents who meet federal criteria for chronic homelessness, meaning they have been unhoused for a long period of time and have disabilities that prevent them from maintaining permanent housing on their own.
When tenants arrive later this summer, each will live in a micro-unit apartment with bathroom, kitchenette and workspace, in a complex with a community room, courtyard, garden and dog park. Onsite staff will assist in coordinating a comprehensive range of services for residents, supported by federal and state funding.
“Providing stability for people experiencing homelessness not only lifts up those served, but it also lifts our entire community,” said Federal Glover, chair of the county Board of Supervisors. “El Portal Place is an example of putting public funds to work to do something about homelessness.”
Contra Costa’s Measure X, approved by county voters in 2020, contributed $5.2 million toward the project, to go along with a $16 million grant from California’s Homekey program, resulting in a cost of slightly more than $398,000 per unit.
A separate $21.5 million award helped the county build the first project, Delta Landing, a 172-unit interim housing site in Pittsburg, in 2022.
“Contra Costa, like all of California, is experiencing a profound housing crisis. Every partnership, collaboration, and new idea to address homelessness is crucial,” said Anna Roth, CEO of Contra Costa Health.
Contra Costa’s point-in-time survey of homelessness in the county in January estimated 2,843 people experiencing homelessness in the county on any given night, an increase of 18.5% from the previous year’s estimate. The county increased its daily capacity of temporary and permanent housing beds by 26% during the same period.
People who need assistance with housing in Contra Costa County can call 211 to reach CCH’s CORE homeless outreach team.
Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.
Read More$36 million in state funds will be used for acquisition and clean-up
By Jen Vanya Public Information Specialist, East Bay Regional Park District
The East Bay Regional Park District is poised to acquire the 80-acre Point Molate property located on the Point San Pablo Peninsula in the City of Richmond. The acquisition will ensure that this historic land will be preserved forever as open space and will add it to the Park District’s portfolio. The acquisition supports the Park District’s mission of habitat preservation and providing recreation and public access for all.
Today, Friday, July 12, 2024, the City of Richmond (City) held a Special Council meeting to consider approval of a Letter of Intent (LOI), a three-party agreement between the City, East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD), and the Guidiville Rancheria of California.
“This step is worthy of heralding and there are many partners to thank who have backed our goal to make this an East Bay Regional Park,” said Park District General Manager Sabrina Landreth. “This Letter of Intent is a major step in the process to secure Point Molate as public open space for the community for decades to come.”
The LOI will be before the EBRPD Board of Directors for approval at its regular board meeting on Tuesday, July 16, 2024. This LOI is a precursor to the Purchase and Sale Agreement which will transfer the property into the hands of the Park District no later than January 15, 2025. The LOI includes a purchase price of $40 million, supported by an independent appraised valuation. Additional details can be found in the Board’s meeting agenda. (See Item III B.)
“This important step toward creating a regional park at Point Molate will preserve stunning bay front land with a rich cultural history for all to enjoy,” said Park District Board President Elizabeth Echols. “It promotes our shared goal of creating equitable access to parks and recreation. I thank the many partners, elected leaders, and community members who have long shared our vision for a regional park at Point Molate.”
Combined with the extension of the San Francisco Bay Trail already scheduled for construction along this shoreline, this historic land is now on track toward public ownership and to provide the type of open, outdoor space the community has come to expect from the Park District.
“Point Molate has been called ‘the most beautiful part of San Francisco Bay no one’s ever heard of,’” said Richmond Councilmember Gayle McLaughlin. “We are now at the point where everyone will come to know Richmond as home to an amazing world-class park at Point Molate.”
The Park District’s 2013 Master Plan and the Bay Conservation and Development Commission’s San Francisco Bay Plan both have called for a regional park at Point Molate. It has been a long-standing vision to have a regional park for all of Richmond and Bay Area residents and to ensure the East Bay shoreline is preserved as open space for all to enjoy. Few opportunities remain to create significant parkland in the Bay Area, especially in the Richmond region.
Point Molate is located on the San Pablo Peninsula within the City of Richmond, in Contra Costa County. The San Francisco Bay lies to the west, open space parcels to the north and south, and the Chevron Richmond refinery to the east.
Underscoring the support this acquisition has received over the years, State Senator Nancy Skinner championed $36 million in the 2022-23 California budget for acquisition and clean-up of Point Molate.
“This is truly a great day for the East Bay and all of California,” Senator Skinner said. “I am thrilled that Point Molate’s 80 acres will now and forever be preserved as parkland and open space. The acquisition of Point Molate, with its breathtaking views along San Francisco Bay, continues the East Bay’s decades-long mission to protect our bay shoreline. Securing Point Molate within the East Bay Regional Park District is not only an incredible environmental victory, it will also reawaken the area’s significant cultural history, which includes Native sacred sites, a historic Chinese fishing camp, a historic wine port and America’s last whaling station. I was proud to lead the state budget effort to help in the purchase of this property and thank the Guidiville Rancheria of California, the City of Richmond, and the East Bay Regional Park District for their role in securing Point Molate for all to enjoy.”
The East Bay Regional Park District is the largest regional park system in the nation, comprising 73 parks, 55 miles of shoreline, and over 1,330 miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and environmental education. The Park District receives an estimated 30 million visits annually throughout Alameda and Contra Costa counties in the San Francisco Bay Area.
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