Due to impact of winter storms; includes quarterly tax payments
The Internal Revenue Service announced on Feb. 24, 2023, that California storm victims, including Contra Costa County residents and businesses, now have until October 16, 2023, to file various federal individual and business tax returns and make tax payments. The deadline was previously extended to May 15 on January 10 and didn’t include Contra Costa. But that changed the following day. Then on Thursday, Gov. Gavin Newsom announced state tax returns will also not be due until Oct. 16, as well.
The IRS is offering relief to any area designated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). This means that individuals and households that reside or have a business in Alameda, Colusa, Contra Costa County qualify for tax relief. The current list of eligible localities is always available on the Tax Relief in Disaster Situations page on IRS.gov.
The tax relief postpones various tax filing and payment deadlines that occurred starting on January 8, 2023. As a result, affected individuals and businesses will have until Oct. 16, 2023, to file returns and pay any taxes that were originally due during this period.
This includes 2022 individual income tax returns due on April 18, as well as various 2022 business returns normally due on March 15 and April 18. Among other things, this means that eligible taxpayers will have until Oct. 16 to make 2022 contributions to their IRAs and health savings accounts.
The Disaster Assistance and Emergency Relief for Individuals and Businesses page has details on other returns, payments and tax-related actions qualifying for the additional time.
The IRS automatically provides filing and penalty relief to any taxpayer with an IRS address of record located in the disaster area. Therefore, taxpayers do not need to contact the agency to get this relief. However, if an affected taxpayer receives a late filing or late payment penalty notice from the IRS that has an original or extended filing, payment or deposit due date falling within the postponement period, the taxpayer should call the number on the notice to have the penalty abated.
In addition, the IRS will work with any taxpayer who lives outside the disaster area but whose records necessary to meet a deadline occurring during the postponement period are located in the affected area. Taxpayers qualifying for relief who live outside the disaster area need to contact the IRS at 866-562-5227. This also includes workers assisting the relief activities who are affiliated with a recognized government or philanthropic organization.
Individuals and businesses in a federally declared disaster area who suffered uninsured or unreimbursed disaster-related losses can choose to claim them on either the return for the year the loss occurred (in this instance, the 2023 return normally filed next year), or the return for the prior year (2022, normally filed this tax season). Be sure to write the FEMA declaration number – 3591-EM − on any return claiming a loss. See Publication 547 for details.
The tax relief is part of a coordinated federal response to the damage caused by these storms and is based on local damage assessments by FEMA. For information on disaster recovery, visit disasterassistance.gov.
California Extension Matches IRS
In addition, California is extending the tax filing deadline for Californians impacted by December and January winter storms to October 16, 2023 – aligning with the IRS
In addition to tax relief measures that Governor Gavin Newsom announced in January, California is also extending the state tax filing and payment due dates to October 16, 2023 for Californians impacted by the winter storms in December and January. This aligns California with the Biden Administration, which announced that the IRS extended various due dates until October 16, as well.
“As communities across the state continue recovering from the damage caused by the winter storms, California is working swiftly to help recovering Californians get back on their feet,” said Governor Newsom. “The state is aligning with the Biden Administration and extending the tax filing deadline in addition to the tax relief announced earlier this year.”
Last month, Governor Newsom announced tax relief for those impacted by winter storms, giving people the ability to claim a deduction for disaster loss and extending certain filing deadlines.
The following counties are eligible for this extended tax relief, per the IRS announcements here and here:
Residents and businesses in Alameda, Alpine, Amador, Butte, Calaveras, Colusa, Contra Costa, Del Norte, El Dorado, Fresno, Glenn, Humboldt, Inyo, Kings, Lake, Los Angeles, Madera, Marin, Mariposa, Mendocino, Merced, Mono, Monterey, Napa, Nevada, Orange, Placer, Riverside, Sacramento, San Benito, San Bernardino, San Diego, San Francisco, San Joaquin, San Luis Obispo, San Mateo, Santa Barbara, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Siskiyou, Solano, Sonoma, Stanislaus, Sutter, Tehama, Trinity, Tulare, Tuolumne, Ventura, Yolo, and Yuba counties who have been affected by severe winter storms, flooding, landslides, and mudslides are eligible for tax relief.
TAX EXTENSION
To help alleviate some of the hardship many have endured during this trying period, the FTB has extended the filing and payment deadlines for individuals and businesses in California until October 16, 2023.
This relief applies to deadlines falling on or after January 8, 2023, and before October 16, 2023, including the 2022 individual income tax returns due on April 18 and the quarterly estimated tax payments, typically due on January 17, 2023 and April 18, 2023. Those payments were previously extended to May 15, 2023 for those impacted by winter storms.
The IRS announced tax relief for Californians affected by these winter storms. Taxpayers affected by these storms qualify for an extension to October 16, 2023 to file individual and business tax returns and make certain tax payments. This includes:
- Individuals whose tax returns and payments are due on April 18, 2023.
- Quarterly estimated tax payments due January 17, 2023, April 18, 2023, June 15, 2023, and September 15, 2023.
- Business entities whose tax returns are normally due on March 15 and April 18.
- PTE Elective Tax payments due on June 15, 2023.
CLAIMING DISASTER LOSSES
Taxpayers affected by a presidentially declared disaster may claim a deduction for a disaster loss. Taxpayers may claim a disaster loss when filing either an original or amended tax year 2022 tax return.
When filing their return, taxpayers should write the name of the disaster in blue or black ink at the top of their tax return to alert FTB. If filing electronically, taxpayers should follow the software instructions to enter disaster information. If a taxpayer receives a late filing or payment penalty notice related to the postponement period, they should call the number on the notice to have the penalty abated.
Additional information and instructions are available in FTB Publication 1034, 2022 Disaster Loss: How to Claim a State Tax Deduction.
Disaster victims can receive free copies of their state returns to replace those lost or damaged. To do so, they should use form FTB 3516 and write the name of the disaster in blue or black ink at the top of the request.
For a complete list of all disasters declared in California, see the chart on FTB’s disaster loss webpage.
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During School Day STEAM Fest 2023!
Velma Wilson of Antioch will sing the National Anthem before the Santa Cruz Warriors game at Chase Center Saturday night, March 4. Wilson was the Contra Costa County 2021 Humanitarian of the Year.
Gather your family and friends and join us for School Day STEAM Fest 2023 as your Santa Cruz Warriors (NBA G-League Affiliate) take on the Cleveland Charge! Join us on West Concourse Terrace for our STEAM Fest where a variety of vendors will be showcasing educational and interactive activations for your and more!
Read MoreFather and son sentenced to 12 years in state prison
By Ted Asregadoo, PIO, Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office
This week, two defendants charged with the murder of 48-year-old Justin David Silva of Brentwood have entered into a plea agreement with the Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office.
45-year-old Dennis Lindsay will serve 12 years and four months in state prison for killing Justin Silva and residential burglary. His son, 21- year-old Nathan Rampone-Lindsay, will serve the same term for manslaughter and preventing a witness from filing a police report. Judge Mary Ann O’Malley will sentence both defendants on April 14th at 8:30 am in Martinez. The plea agreement reflects enhancements which add to their prison terms.
Deputy District Attorney Jennifer Tompkins said after the agreement was reached, “Justin Silva’s surviving family and loved ones can now begin the process of healing and recovery from his senseless murder. The relationships between the parties, as well as complex issues of self-defense and defense of others, created a significant legal challenge in a jury trial that Justin’s family recognized. While nothing can bring Justin Silva back to his family and friends, justice has been served on his behalf.”
On August 24th, 2021, around 4:15 in the afternoon Brentwood Police responded to reports of shots fired on Brentwood Boulevard near Sellers Avenue. When authorities arrived, they found Silva dead from multiple gunshot wounds. Dennis Lindsay and 50-year-old Daniel Marmino were also shot with non-life-threatening injuries to their leg and arms. (See related article)
During the police investigation, it was revealed Silva was living in an outbuilding on the property owned by a Lindsay family member — where he was employed doing carpentry work.
The living and employment relationship between Silva and the Lindsay family members became acrimonious. Silva was sent an eviction letter to leave the property by September 1st. However, on August 24th, Lindsay, Rampone-Lindsay, and Marmino went to Silva’s home armed with an automatic pistol with an extended magazine, a flare gun, bear spray, and a knife. Dennis and Marmino then tore down a wooden side wall of Silva’s home and entered the residence with their weapons drawn — with Nathan entering behind them. Upon their entry, Silva opened fire on the men with his firearms — shooting Dennis and Marmino. Nathan returned fire with 30 rounds from the automatic pistol, striking Silva 20 times. Silva died at the scene.
Marmino, and a fourth defendant – 74-year-old Roger Lindsay – were also charged but entered pleas in 2022 for their roles in the incident. Roger Lindsay pled to being an accessory to the crime, and Daniel Marmino entered a plea of assault with force likely to cause great bodily harm.
Both men are scheduled to be sentenced on March 27th at 8:30 am in Martinez.
04002026128 | The People of the State of California vs. Lindsay, Dennis Victor, Rampone-
Lindsay, Nathan, Lindsay, Roger Curtis, and Marmino, Daniel Vincent
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By Ted Asregadoo, PIO, Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office
On February 2, 2023, a United States Postal Service (USPS) worker was robbed in Martinez and their mail truck was stolen by 35-year-old Joshua Scott Anderson. Charges were filed on February 28th against Mr. Anderson by the Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office.
The robbery of the carrier’s postal vehicle key and theft of the USPS mail truck occurred around 10:30 am at the Lotus Apartments on the 3900 block of Alhambra Avenue. According to reports, Anderson approached the carrier and used force to rob the Postal worker of their key and the mail truck – which contained letters and parcels.
The stolen mail truck was recovered about 30 minutes later, but several trays of mail and parcels were missing.
Following an investigation, Anderson was arrested and charged with second degree robbery [PC211], carjacking [PC215(a)], driving or taking a vehicle without consent [VC10851(a)], and mail theft [PC530.5(e)].
The complaint also lists an enhancement for prior convictions of vehicle theft, special allegations for committing a felony while on probation, and prior convictions of first-and second-degree burglary, vehicle theft, and identity theft.
Anderson is currently in the Martinez Detention Facility. He was arraigned on the charges on Wednesday, March 1 in Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa in Martinez.
In a statement, San Francisco Division Inspector in Charge, Rafael Nunez, said, “The Postal Inspection Service takes threats to our employees and the theft of mail very seriously, and we will vigorously pursue those who commit such crimes. Postal Inspectors worked closely with the District Attorney’s Office and our partners at the Martinez Police Department and the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office on this case.”
Incidents of mail theft and Postal carriers being robbed – sometimes at gunpoint – have increased nationwide. The safety of USPS employees is paramount, and employees have received training on what to do if they are robbed. However, Postal Inspectors urge the public to report any suspicious activity involving mail trucks or postal carriers.
Case #01-23-00557 | The People of the State of California vs. Anderson, Joshua Scott
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Become an exhibitor and enter to win
ANTIOCH – Online entries for the 2023 Contra Costa County Fair closes April 14th. Imagine the thrill of winning a blue ribbon at the Fair for a special talent. Think you own the best pig, bake the most delicious apple pie, made a beautiful quilt, or have an uncanny knack for making crafts? Want to see who’s the best in all of Contra Costa County? Then be sure to enter the Contra Costa County Fair’s competitive exhibits! Entry information available on the fair’s website www.contracostafair.com/become-an-exhibitor.
Once Upon A Fair ~ May 18th–21st is sure to be a fun event for children of all ages, with new exhibits and entertainment, the carnival, livestock and the always popular fair food.
For additional information visit our website at www.contracostafair.com, or like us on Facebook.
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By Lt. Holley Connors, Walnut Creek Police Department
An Antioch woman who is suspected of making threats to a private school in Walnut Creek is in custody. Walnut Creek Police Detectives and the Central County SWAT Team served a search and arrest warrant at 33-year-old Danielle Nye’s residence in Antioch last night. Detectives ultimately arrested Ms. Nye for PC 422 – Criminal Threats.
On February 28th, Contra Costa Christian Schools (CCCS) reported to Walnut Creek Police Department (WCPD) that they received numerous emails and voicemails from an unknown person who spoke of vague threats of violence toward the school. Officers worked to identify and locate the sender and to determine if there were any credible threats.
On March 1st, CCCS notified WCPD that they received more emails, and the threatening language had escalated. One email contained a photo of an apparent rifle.
Based on the continuing threats, behavior of the caller, and the photo of the weapon, CCCS sent students in after-school classes home early on March 1st. Walnut Creek Police searched the campus and found no evidence of weapons or threats to staff or students. Out of an abundance of caution, CCCS cancelled all classes for March 2nd.
At this time, there is no known threat to CCCS’ staff or students. It appears this was an isolated incident, and WCPD will continue follow up investigation to confirm no one else was involved. It is unknown what, if any, connection Ms. Nye has to CCCS.
She was booked into the Martinez Detention Facility and remains in custody on $25,000 bail. Anyone with any information is asked to contact Walnut Creek Police Department at 925-943-5844 or call the Anonymous Tip Line at 925-943-5865.
Case #: 23-7237
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By Chantel Tieman
Hold Your Horses Livestock Emergency Evacuation Response Team & Rescue is a local non-profit evacuation team and rescue based out of East Contra Costa County.
We are deployed by operations of emergency services, Calfire and local fire agencies and Animal Services. We not only rescue during disasters but whenever there are calls for neglect and abuse etc. For more information visit www.holdyourhorsesevac.com or our Facebook page.
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Closed since July 2021
By Allen D. Payton
After over 12 years since it closed, Pinole Valley Fire Station 74 will reopen and a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate it will be held this Saturday, March 4, 2023 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
The Contra Costa County Fire Protection District posted the following invitation on their Facebook page, Wednesday:
“You are cordially invited to celebrate a ribbon-cutting ceremony jointly hosted by the City of Pinole and Contra Costa County Fire Protection District to recognize the reactivation of Fire Station 74 and the implementation of the collaborative agreement through which Con Fire will provide fire protection, rescue, and emergency medical services in Pinole.
On this date, in a precursor to the many service enhancements to be realized through the upcoming contract for fire, rescue and EMS service arrangement with Con Fire, we will begin serving county residents from this renovated and long un-staffed station.
Please join our city, county and fire districts’ leaders, advisory commission members, along with firefighters and staff from the City of Pinole Fire and Con Fire, as we mark the reopening of Fire Station 74.
A ceremony will take place at 11 a.m. with brief remarks by Mayor Devin T. Murphy, Supervisor John Gioia, Pinole Fire Chief Chris Wynkoop, and Con Fire Chief Lewis Broschard, followed by a ribbon cutting and open house to introduce the newly renovated station to the public.
Light refreshments will be served.
A formal transfer of command will take place in a separate ceremony at the Pinole city council meeting on April 4 at 7 pm to mark the completion of the contract for service transition.
WHEN: Saturday, March 4, 2023, 11 am – 1 pm
WHERE: 3700 Pinole Valley Road, Pinole
District 1 Supervisor John Gioia also issued an invite to the event writing, “reopening of Pinole Valley Fire Station will save lives and property.
If you can’t make it in person, you can watch on livestream: facebook.com/contracostafire
Re-activating this Fire Station is the result of a collaboration between Contra Costa County, City of Pinole, and the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District (ConFire)
I successfully advocated to use revenues from the County’s recently passed new sales tax (Measure X) to re-open this vital fire station.
Re-opening Station 74 will enhance fire, rescue, and emergency medical services throughout West County, and it will be staffed by an engine crew operating both a standard structure fire engine and a specialized wildland fire engine.
My father died of cardiac arrest in 1987 after not getting medical care fast enough. I understand the importance of improving emergency response time since every minute can make the difference between life and death.
Under a new agreement with the City of Pinole, ConFire will staff and operate both Fire Stations in Pinole – the Downtown Station 73 and Pinole Valley Station 74.
Thanks to the voters for supporting Measure X to increase vital fire and emergency medical services.”
Source: City of Pinole
History of Station 74 and Reopening Process
Station 74 was closed by the Pinole City Council in July 2011. Also according to the City’s website, “For most of its history, the City of Pinole has operated just one fire station (Station 73). The City briefly operated a second fire station (Station 74), from 2003 until 2011. The second station was closed due to lack of funding. Since the closure of Station 74, the City has explored different options for reopening the station or otherwise expanding fire protection and emergency medical services.
In November 2020, Contra Costa County voters approved Measure X, a half-cent countywide sales tax expected to generate approximately $100 million annually. In November 2021, the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors approved various appropriations of Measure X revenues, including $2 million to help reopen Pinole’s Fire Station 74.”
The process to reopen the station began last September. Then following the approvals by both the council and Board of Supervisors, on Nov. 9, 2022, the Contra Costa County Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) unanimously approved the application for the fire service contract between the City of Pinole and Con Fire.
The partnership enables Con Fire to provide full operation of fire services in the City of Pinole, including the operation of both Fire Station 73 in downtown and Fire Station 74.
That will result ending the City’s own fire department. Emergency medical and fire protection services will be provided in Pinole by Con Fire.
“Residents, businesses, and visitors of Pinole would enjoy a higher level of emergency medical and fire protection services under the proposed arrangement than they do currently. In the future, if the City and Con Fire terminated the agreement, the City would need to reinstitute a City of Pinole Fire Department,” the City’s website reads.
All sworn uniformed personnel, with the exception of the Fire Chief, will become Con Fire employees upon the changeover.
The city will continue to own both fire stations.
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Deadline to apply is March 12th
Do you live in one of the following Counties of Contra Costa, Alameda or El Dorado and own a Small Business or Nonprofit? You may qualify for a $2,500 Covid Relief Grant. Chabot-Las Positas Community College District is partnering with the California Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz) to disburse Covid-19 Relief Grants.
Grant Eligibility Rules:
Qualified microbusiness must meet and self-certify, under penalty of perjury, all of the following criteria:
1. Began its operation prior to December 31, 2019
2. Self-employed workers, independent contractors, sole proprietors, and corporations with no more than 5 employees or full time equivalent in 2019
3. Less than $50,000.00 gross revenue in 2019
4. Has fewer than 5 full-time equivalent employees now
5. Is currently operating or has a clear plan to reopen
6. Was significantly impacted by COVID-19 pandemic
7. Microbusiness was the primary source of revenue for the business owner
Note: Businesses who already received funding through this microbusiness program are not eligible for this round 2 funding.
Deadline to apply is March 12th! Check out microbusinessgrant.org or call 925-416-5143 to learn more and apply!
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State Senator Steve Glazer wants greater fiscal oversight of BART.
Says “Bay Area leaders have not stepped up to fix the fiscal oversight problems with BART…”
BART Board Vice Chair Foley responds, Director Allen applauds Glazer
By Allen D. Payton
SACRAMENTO – Senator Steve Glazer, D-Contra Costa, announced that he resigned today, Tuesday, Feb. 28, 2023 from his position as a member of the Senate Select Committee on Bay Area Public Transit, saying Bay Area leaders have failed to support fiscal oversight of BART.
Senator Glazer is a longtime supporter of public transit and is concerned about the financial problems facing Bay Area transit systems, which are essential to the health of the regional economy. But, he said, the status quo is unacceptable.
“Bay Area leaders have not stepped up to fix the fiscal oversight problems with BART, as well as the underfunding of the Inspector General’s office,” Glazer said. “When these problems are addressed, I will join with my colleagues and support greater transit funding.”
In June 2022, an Alameda County Grand Jury found that BART’s leadership has repeatedly blocked the Inspector General’s authority and autonomy.
Just two months later, former State Auditor Elaine Howle found that the BART office “lacked the authority and independence necessary to do its job…”
The BART inspector general was created by Senator Glazer as part of a transportation bill in 2017. Senator Glazer advanced legislation (SB 827) to the governor’s desk last year that enhanced independence for the IG, conforming its auditing standards and investigations with other transportation IGs. At the request of the BART Board, Governor Newsom vetoed the bill.
Senator Glazer’s letter reads as follows:
Dear Senator Wiener,
I hereby resign from the Senate Select Committee on Bay Area Public Transit, effective immediately. The failure of Bay Area leaders to hold BART financially accountable makes my participation in this transit support committee incompatible.
I recognize and support the pressing need for the state to invest in public transit agencies throughout the Bay Area given the financial uncertainty that looms over these systems. However, there is no guarantee that these agencies will spend taxpayer dollars sensibly without adequate oversight of their expenditures. I point to the recent alarming reports from BART’s Inspector General regarding BART’s financial mismanagement and brazen defiance of voter-mandated oversight.
In June 2022, an Alameda County Grand Jury found that BART’s leadership has repeatedly blocked the Inspector General’s authority and autonomy. Specifically, the Grand Jury found that BART’s board of directors and management engaged in a “pattern of obstruction” that has impeded the Inspector General’s ability to conduct independent oversight and “stymied OIG independence and the confidentiality of investigations.”
Just two months later, former State Auditor Elaine Howle, comparing the powers and responsibilities of the BART IG to other, similar offices, found that the BART office “lacked the authority and independence necessary to do its job according to the best practices recommended by national professional organizations that set standards in the accountability field.’ She also asserted in a letter to Governor Newsom that ‘(e)nsuring the independence of the BART Inspector General is critical to the credibility and effectiveness of the office.”
As BART and other regional transit systems seek additional state funding to stave off upcoming fiscal problems, the Legislature must ensure that the same systems spend public resources responsibly.
I wish you well with your important work.
———————
BART Directors Respond
When reached for comment about Glazer’s resignation from the committee and reason for it the four BART Board directors who represent Contra Costa County, including Vice Chair and District 3 Director Mark Foley, District 1 Director Deb Allen, District 3 Director Rebecca Stutzman and District 7 Director Lateefah Simon.
Foley responded writing, “I’d like to thank Senator Glazer for his continuing support of BART and public transit. I look forward to partnering with the senator on matters of mutual interest, including strengthening the Office of the Inspector General and helping support BART’s efforts to provide safe, world-class transit, invest in infrastructure renewal and address societal issues such as unhoused individuals within the BART system. I’m eagerly anticipating Chair Wiener’s appointment to this vacancy on the Senate Select Committee on Bay Area Public Transit.”
Allen responded writing, “I applauded CA Senator Glazer for standing up to Bay Area elected leaders to insist on accountability to transit riders and taxpayers. They deserve answers about how BART spends $2.5B plus annually and those answers aren’t easy to come by.
Senator Glazer and I have worked for over six years together to get answers and still continue to meet resistance in making meaningful independent oversight a permanent part of the BART culture. We have worked tirelessly over last 4 years on strengthening the role of the Office of Inspector General we created and built, while the majority of BART board directors, unions and executive staff continue to focus on the ‘more money please!’ approach. We saw it last week in BART’s annual Board Workshop and it seems Senator Glazer is seeing the same approach evolving from the Senate select Committee on Bay Area Public Transit. That will only produce more of the same failed policies we see now for BART.
I believe BART executive management and a majority of directors will continue to fight proper oversight. Unless our state leaders like Senator Glazer attach oversight strings to new funding at the state level to keep transit agencies accountable to the people who are paying for it, transit will continue to fail the riders, workers and the Bay Area.”
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Due to impact of winter storms; includes quarterly tax payments
The Internal Revenue Service announced on Feb. 24, 2023, that California storm victims, including Contra Costa County residents and businesses, now have until October 16, 2023, to file various federal individual and business tax returns and make tax payments. The deadline was previously extended to May 15 on January 10 and didn’t include Contra Costa. But that changed the following day. Then on Thursday, Gov. Gavin Newsom announced state tax returns will also not be due until Oct. 16, as well.
The IRS is offering relief to any area designated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). This means that individuals and households that reside or have a business in Alameda, Colusa, Contra Costa County qualify for tax relief. The current list of eligible localities is always available on the Tax Relief in Disaster Situations page on IRS.gov.
The tax relief postpones various tax filing and payment deadlines that occurred starting on January 8, 2023. As a result, affected individuals and businesses will have until Oct. 16, 2023, to file returns and pay any taxes that were originally due during this period.
This includes 2022 individual income tax returns due on April 18, as well as various 2022 business returns normally due on March 15 and April 18. Among other things, this means that eligible taxpayers will have until Oct. 16 to make 2022 contributions to their IRAs and health savings accounts.
The Disaster Assistance and Emergency Relief for Individuals and Businesses page has details on other returns, payments and tax-related actions qualifying for the additional time.
The IRS automatically provides filing and penalty relief to any taxpayer with an IRS address of record located in the disaster area. Therefore, taxpayers do not need to contact the agency to get this relief. However, if an affected taxpayer receives a late filing or late payment penalty notice from the IRS that has an original or extended filing, payment or deposit due date falling within the postponement period, the taxpayer should call the number on the notice to have the penalty abated.
In addition, the IRS will work with any taxpayer who lives outside the disaster area but whose records necessary to meet a deadline occurring during the postponement period are located in the affected area. Taxpayers qualifying for relief who live outside the disaster area need to contact the IRS at 866-562-5227. This also includes workers assisting the relief activities who are affiliated with a recognized government or philanthropic organization.
Individuals and businesses in a federally declared disaster area who suffered uninsured or unreimbursed disaster-related losses can choose to claim them on either the return for the year the loss occurred (in this instance, the 2023 return normally filed next year), or the return for the prior year (2022, normally filed this tax season). Be sure to write the FEMA declaration number – 3591-EM − on any return claiming a loss. See Publication 547 for details.
The tax relief is part of a coordinated federal response to the damage caused by these storms and is based on local damage assessments by FEMA. For information on disaster recovery, visit disasterassistance.gov.
California Extension Matches IRS
In addition, California is extending the tax filing deadline for Californians impacted by December and January winter storms to October 16, 2023 – aligning with the IRS
In addition to tax relief measures that Governor Gavin Newsom announced in January, California is also extending the state tax filing and payment due dates to October 16, 2023 for Californians impacted by the winter storms in December and January. This aligns California with the Biden Administration, which announced that the IRS extended various due dates until October 16, as well.
“As communities across the state continue recovering from the damage caused by the winter storms, California is working swiftly to help recovering Californians get back on their feet,” said Governor Newsom. “The state is aligning with the Biden Administration and extending the tax filing deadline in addition to the tax relief announced earlier this year.”
Last month, Governor Newsom announced tax relief for those impacted by winter storms, giving people the ability to claim a deduction for disaster loss and extending certain filing deadlines.
The following counties are eligible for this extended tax relief, per the IRS announcements here and here:
Residents and businesses in Alameda, Alpine, Amador, Butte, Calaveras, Colusa, Contra Costa, Del Norte, El Dorado, Fresno, Glenn, Humboldt, Inyo, Kings, Lake, Los Angeles, Madera, Marin, Mariposa, Mendocino, Merced, Mono, Monterey, Napa, Nevada, Orange, Placer, Riverside, Sacramento, San Benito, San Bernardino, San Diego, San Francisco, San Joaquin, San Luis Obispo, San Mateo, Santa Barbara, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Siskiyou, Solano, Sonoma, Stanislaus, Sutter, Tehama, Trinity, Tulare, Tuolumne, Ventura, Yolo, and Yuba counties who have been affected by severe winter storms, flooding, landslides, and mudslides are eligible for tax relief.
TAX EXTENSION
To help alleviate some of the hardship many have endured during this trying period, the FTB has extended the filing and payment deadlines for individuals and businesses in California until October 16, 2023.
This relief applies to deadlines falling on or after January 8, 2023, and before October 16, 2023, including the 2022 individual income tax returns due on April 18 and the quarterly estimated tax payments, typically due on January 17, 2023 and April 18, 2023. Those payments were previously extended to May 15, 2023 for those impacted by winter storms.
The IRS announced tax relief for Californians affected by these winter storms. Taxpayers affected by these storms qualify for an extension to October 16, 2023 to file individual and business tax returns and make certain tax payments. This includes:
- Individuals whose tax returns and payments are due on April 18, 2023.
- Quarterly estimated tax payments due January 17, 2023, April 18, 2023, June 15, 2023, and September 15, 2023.
- Business entities whose tax returns are normally due on March 15 and April 18.
- PTE Elective Tax payments due on June 15, 2023.
CLAIMING DISASTER LOSSES
Taxpayers affected by a presidentially declared disaster may claim a deduction for a disaster loss. Taxpayers may claim a disaster loss when filing either an original or amended tax year 2022 tax return.
When filing their return, taxpayers should write the name of the disaster in blue or black ink at the top of their tax return to alert FTB. If filing electronically, taxpayers should follow the software instructions to enter disaster information. If a taxpayer receives a late filing or payment penalty notice related to the postponement period, they should call the number on the notice to have the penalty abated.
Additional information and instructions are available in FTB Publication 1034, 2022 Disaster Loss: How to Claim a State Tax Deduction.
Disaster victims can receive free copies of their state returns to replace those lost or damaged. To do so, they should use form FTB 3516 and write the name of the disaster in blue or black ink at the top of the request.
For a complete list of all disasters declared in California, see the chart on FTB’s disaster loss webpage.
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During School Day STEAM Fest 2023!
Velma Wilson of Antioch will sing the National Anthem before the Santa Cruz Warriors game at Chase Center Saturday night, March 4. Wilson was the Contra Costa County 2021 Humanitarian of the Year.
Gather your family and friends and join us for School Day STEAM Fest 2023 as your Santa Cruz Warriors (NBA G-League Affiliate) take on the Cleveland Charge! Join us on West Concourse Terrace for our STEAM Fest where a variety of vendors will be showcasing educational and interactive activations for your and more!
Read MoreFather and son sentenced to 12 years in state prison
By Ted Asregadoo, PIO, Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office
This week, two defendants charged with the murder of 48-year-old Justin David Silva of Brentwood have entered into a plea agreement with the Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office.
45-year-old Dennis Lindsay will serve 12 years and four months in state prison for killing Justin Silva and residential burglary. His son, 21- year-old Nathan Rampone-Lindsay, will serve the same term for manslaughter and preventing a witness from filing a police report. Judge Mary Ann O’Malley will sentence both defendants on April 14th at 8:30 am in Martinez. The plea agreement reflects enhancements which add to their prison terms.
Deputy District Attorney Jennifer Tompkins said after the agreement was reached, “Justin Silva’s surviving family and loved ones can now begin the process of healing and recovery from his senseless murder. The relationships between the parties, as well as complex issues of self-defense and defense of others, created a significant legal challenge in a jury trial that Justin’s family recognized. While nothing can bring Justin Silva back to his family and friends, justice has been served on his behalf.”
On August 24th, 2021, around 4:15 in the afternoon Brentwood Police responded to reports of shots fired on Brentwood Boulevard near Sellers Avenue. When authorities arrived, they found Silva dead from multiple gunshot wounds. Dennis Lindsay and 50-year-old Daniel Marmino were also shot with non-life-threatening injuries to their leg and arms. (See related article)
During the police investigation, it was revealed Silva was living in an outbuilding on the property owned by a Lindsay family member — where he was employed doing carpentry work.
The living and employment relationship between Silva and the Lindsay family members became acrimonious. Silva was sent an eviction letter to leave the property by September 1st. However, on August 24th, Lindsay, Rampone-Lindsay, and Marmino went to Silva’s home armed with an automatic pistol with an extended magazine, a flare gun, bear spray, and a knife. Dennis and Marmino then tore down a wooden side wall of Silva’s home and entered the residence with their weapons drawn — with Nathan entering behind them. Upon their entry, Silva opened fire on the men with his firearms — shooting Dennis and Marmino. Nathan returned fire with 30 rounds from the automatic pistol, striking Silva 20 times. Silva died at the scene.
Marmino, and a fourth defendant – 74-year-old Roger Lindsay – were also charged but entered pleas in 2022 for their roles in the incident. Roger Lindsay pled to being an accessory to the crime, and Daniel Marmino entered a plea of assault with force likely to cause great bodily harm.
Both men are scheduled to be sentenced on March 27th at 8:30 am in Martinez.
04002026128 | The People of the State of California vs. Lindsay, Dennis Victor, Rampone-
Lindsay, Nathan, Lindsay, Roger Curtis, and Marmino, Daniel Vincent
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By Ted Asregadoo, PIO, Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office
On February 2, 2023, a United States Postal Service (USPS) worker was robbed in Martinez and their mail truck was stolen by 35-year-old Joshua Scott Anderson. Charges were filed on February 28th against Mr. Anderson by the Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office.
The robbery of the carrier’s postal vehicle key and theft of the USPS mail truck occurred around 10:30 am at the Lotus Apartments on the 3900 block of Alhambra Avenue. According to reports, Anderson approached the carrier and used force to rob the Postal worker of their key and the mail truck – which contained letters and parcels.
The stolen mail truck was recovered about 30 minutes later, but several trays of mail and parcels were missing.
Following an investigation, Anderson was arrested and charged with second degree robbery [PC211], carjacking [PC215(a)], driving or taking a vehicle without consent [VC10851(a)], and mail theft [PC530.5(e)].
The complaint also lists an enhancement for prior convictions of vehicle theft, special allegations for committing a felony while on probation, and prior convictions of first-and second-degree burglary, vehicle theft, and identity theft.
Anderson is currently in the Martinez Detention Facility. He was arraigned on the charges on Wednesday, March 1 in Superior Court of California, County of Contra Costa in Martinez.
In a statement, San Francisco Division Inspector in Charge, Rafael Nunez, said, “The Postal Inspection Service takes threats to our employees and the theft of mail very seriously, and we will vigorously pursue those who commit such crimes. Postal Inspectors worked closely with the District Attorney’s Office and our partners at the Martinez Police Department and the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office on this case.”
Incidents of mail theft and Postal carriers being robbed – sometimes at gunpoint – have increased nationwide. The safety of USPS employees is paramount, and employees have received training on what to do if they are robbed. However, Postal Inspectors urge the public to report any suspicious activity involving mail trucks or postal carriers.
Case #01-23-00557 | The People of the State of California vs. Anderson, Joshua Scott
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Become an exhibitor and enter to win
ANTIOCH – Online entries for the 2023 Contra Costa County Fair closes April 14th. Imagine the thrill of winning a blue ribbon at the Fair for a special talent. Think you own the best pig, bake the most delicious apple pie, made a beautiful quilt, or have an uncanny knack for making crafts? Want to see who’s the best in all of Contra Costa County? Then be sure to enter the Contra Costa County Fair’s competitive exhibits! Entry information available on the fair’s website www.contracostafair.com/become-an-exhibitor.
Once Upon A Fair ~ May 18th–21st is sure to be a fun event for children of all ages, with new exhibits and entertainment, the carnival, livestock and the always popular fair food.
For additional information visit our website at www.contracostafair.com, or like us on Facebook.
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By Lt. Holley Connors, Walnut Creek Police Department
An Antioch woman who is suspected of making threats to a private school in Walnut Creek is in custody. Walnut Creek Police Detectives and the Central County SWAT Team served a search and arrest warrant at 33-year-old Danielle Nye’s residence in Antioch last night. Detectives ultimately arrested Ms. Nye for PC 422 – Criminal Threats.
On February 28th, Contra Costa Christian Schools (CCCS) reported to Walnut Creek Police Department (WCPD) that they received numerous emails and voicemails from an unknown person who spoke of vague threats of violence toward the school. Officers worked to identify and locate the sender and to determine if there were any credible threats.
On March 1st, CCCS notified WCPD that they received more emails, and the threatening language had escalated. One email contained a photo of an apparent rifle.
Based on the continuing threats, behavior of the caller, and the photo of the weapon, CCCS sent students in after-school classes home early on March 1st. Walnut Creek Police searched the campus and found no evidence of weapons or threats to staff or students. Out of an abundance of caution, CCCS cancelled all classes for March 2nd.
At this time, there is no known threat to CCCS’ staff or students. It appears this was an isolated incident, and WCPD will continue follow up investigation to confirm no one else was involved. It is unknown what, if any, connection Ms. Nye has to CCCS.
She was booked into the Martinez Detention Facility and remains in custody on $25,000 bail. Anyone with any information is asked to contact Walnut Creek Police Department at 925-943-5844 or call the Anonymous Tip Line at 925-943-5865.
Case #: 23-7237
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By Chantel Tieman
Hold Your Horses Livestock Emergency Evacuation Response Team & Rescue is a local non-profit evacuation team and rescue based out of East Contra Costa County.
We are deployed by operations of emergency services, Calfire and local fire agencies and Animal Services. We not only rescue during disasters but whenever there are calls for neglect and abuse etc. For more information visit www.holdyourhorsesevac.com or our Facebook page.
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Closed since July 2021
By Allen D. Payton
After over 12 years since it closed, Pinole Valley Fire Station 74 will reopen and a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate it will be held this Saturday, March 4, 2023 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
The Contra Costa County Fire Protection District posted the following invitation on their Facebook page, Wednesday:
“You are cordially invited to celebrate a ribbon-cutting ceremony jointly hosted by the City of Pinole and Contra Costa County Fire Protection District to recognize the reactivation of Fire Station 74 and the implementation of the collaborative agreement through which Con Fire will provide fire protection, rescue, and emergency medical services in Pinole.
On this date, in a precursor to the many service enhancements to be realized through the upcoming contract for fire, rescue and EMS service arrangement with Con Fire, we will begin serving county residents from this renovated and long un-staffed station.
Please join our city, county and fire districts’ leaders, advisory commission members, along with firefighters and staff from the City of Pinole Fire and Con Fire, as we mark the reopening of Fire Station 74.
A ceremony will take place at 11 a.m. with brief remarks by Mayor Devin T. Murphy, Supervisor John Gioia, Pinole Fire Chief Chris Wynkoop, and Con Fire Chief Lewis Broschard, followed by a ribbon cutting and open house to introduce the newly renovated station to the public.
Light refreshments will be served.
A formal transfer of command will take place in a separate ceremony at the Pinole city council meeting on April 4 at 7 pm to mark the completion of the contract for service transition.
WHEN: Saturday, March 4, 2023, 11 am – 1 pm
WHERE: 3700 Pinole Valley Road, Pinole
District 1 Supervisor John Gioia also issued an invite to the event writing, “reopening of Pinole Valley Fire Station will save lives and property.
If you can’t make it in person, you can watch on livestream: facebook.com/contracostafire
Re-activating this Fire Station is the result of a collaboration between Contra Costa County, City of Pinole, and the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District (ConFire)
I successfully advocated to use revenues from the County’s recently passed new sales tax (Measure X) to re-open this vital fire station.
Re-opening Station 74 will enhance fire, rescue, and emergency medical services throughout West County, and it will be staffed by an engine crew operating both a standard structure fire engine and a specialized wildland fire engine.
My father died of cardiac arrest in 1987 after not getting medical care fast enough. I understand the importance of improving emergency response time since every minute can make the difference between life and death.
Under a new agreement with the City of Pinole, ConFire will staff and operate both Fire Stations in Pinole – the Downtown Station 73 and Pinole Valley Station 74.
Thanks to the voters for supporting Measure X to increase vital fire and emergency medical services.”
Source: City of Pinole
History of Station 74 and Reopening Process
Station 74 was closed by the Pinole City Council in July 2011. Also according to the City’s website, “For most of its history, the City of Pinole has operated just one fire station (Station 73). The City briefly operated a second fire station (Station 74), from 2003 until 2011. The second station was closed due to lack of funding. Since the closure of Station 74, the City has explored different options for reopening the station or otherwise expanding fire protection and emergency medical services.
In November 2020, Contra Costa County voters approved Measure X, a half-cent countywide sales tax expected to generate approximately $100 million annually. In November 2021, the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors approved various appropriations of Measure X revenues, including $2 million to help reopen Pinole’s Fire Station 74.”
The process to reopen the station began last September. Then following the approvals by both the council and Board of Supervisors, on Nov. 9, 2022, the Contra Costa County Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) unanimously approved the application for the fire service contract between the City of Pinole and Con Fire.
The partnership enables Con Fire to provide full operation of fire services in the City of Pinole, including the operation of both Fire Station 73 in downtown and Fire Station 74.
That will result ending the City’s own fire department. Emergency medical and fire protection services will be provided in Pinole by Con Fire.
“Residents, businesses, and visitors of Pinole would enjoy a higher level of emergency medical and fire protection services under the proposed arrangement than they do currently. In the future, if the City and Con Fire terminated the agreement, the City would need to reinstitute a City of Pinole Fire Department,” the City’s website reads.
All sworn uniformed personnel, with the exception of the Fire Chief, will become Con Fire employees upon the changeover.
The city will continue to own both fire stations.
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Deadline to apply is March 12th
Do you live in one of the following Counties of Contra Costa, Alameda or El Dorado and own a Small Business or Nonprofit? You may qualify for a $2,500 Covid Relief Grant. Chabot-Las Positas Community College District is partnering with the California Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz) to disburse Covid-19 Relief Grants.
Grant Eligibility Rules:
Qualified microbusiness must meet and self-certify, under penalty of perjury, all of the following criteria:
1. Began its operation prior to December 31, 2019
2. Self-employed workers, independent contractors, sole proprietors, and corporations with no more than 5 employees or full time equivalent in 2019
3. Less than $50,000.00 gross revenue in 2019
4. Has fewer than 5 full-time equivalent employees now
5. Is currently operating or has a clear plan to reopen
6. Was significantly impacted by COVID-19 pandemic
7. Microbusiness was the primary source of revenue for the business owner
Note: Businesses who already received funding through this microbusiness program are not eligible for this round 2 funding.
Deadline to apply is March 12th! Check out microbusinessgrant.org or call 925-416-5143 to learn more and apply!
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State Senator Steve Glazer wants greater fiscal oversight of BART.
Says “Bay Area leaders have not stepped up to fix the fiscal oversight problems with BART…”
BART Board Vice Chair Foley responds, Director Allen applauds Glazer
By Allen D. Payton
SACRAMENTO – Senator Steve Glazer, D-Contra Costa, announced that he resigned today, Tuesday, Feb. 28, 2023 from his position as a member of the Senate Select Committee on Bay Area Public Transit, saying Bay Area leaders have failed to support fiscal oversight of BART.
Senator Glazer is a longtime supporter of public transit and is concerned about the financial problems facing Bay Area transit systems, which are essential to the health of the regional economy. But, he said, the status quo is unacceptable.
“Bay Area leaders have not stepped up to fix the fiscal oversight problems with BART, as well as the underfunding of the Inspector General’s office,” Glazer said. “When these problems are addressed, I will join with my colleagues and support greater transit funding.”
In June 2022, an Alameda County Grand Jury found that BART’s leadership has repeatedly blocked the Inspector General’s authority and autonomy.
Just two months later, former State Auditor Elaine Howle found that the BART office “lacked the authority and independence necessary to do its job…”
The BART inspector general was created by Senator Glazer as part of a transportation bill in 2017. Senator Glazer advanced legislation (SB 827) to the governor’s desk last year that enhanced independence for the IG, conforming its auditing standards and investigations with other transportation IGs. At the request of the BART Board, Governor Newsom vetoed the bill.
Senator Glazer’s letter reads as follows:
Dear Senator Wiener,
I hereby resign from the Senate Select Committee on Bay Area Public Transit, effective immediately. The failure of Bay Area leaders to hold BART financially accountable makes my participation in this transit support committee incompatible.
I recognize and support the pressing need for the state to invest in public transit agencies throughout the Bay Area given the financial uncertainty that looms over these systems. However, there is no guarantee that these agencies will spend taxpayer dollars sensibly without adequate oversight of their expenditures. I point to the recent alarming reports from BART’s Inspector General regarding BART’s financial mismanagement and brazen defiance of voter-mandated oversight.
In June 2022, an Alameda County Grand Jury found that BART’s leadership has repeatedly blocked the Inspector General’s authority and autonomy. Specifically, the Grand Jury found that BART’s board of directors and management engaged in a “pattern of obstruction” that has impeded the Inspector General’s ability to conduct independent oversight and “stymied OIG independence and the confidentiality of investigations.”
Just two months later, former State Auditor Elaine Howle, comparing the powers and responsibilities of the BART IG to other, similar offices, found that the BART office “lacked the authority and independence necessary to do its job according to the best practices recommended by national professional organizations that set standards in the accountability field.’ She also asserted in a letter to Governor Newsom that ‘(e)nsuring the independence of the BART Inspector General is critical to the credibility and effectiveness of the office.”
As BART and other regional transit systems seek additional state funding to stave off upcoming fiscal problems, the Legislature must ensure that the same systems spend public resources responsibly.
I wish you well with your important work.
———————
BART Directors Respond
When reached for comment about Glazer’s resignation from the committee and reason for it the four BART Board directors who represent Contra Costa County, including Vice Chair and District 3 Director Mark Foley, District 1 Director Deb Allen, District 3 Director Rebecca Stutzman and District 7 Director Lateefah Simon.
Foley responded writing, “I’d like to thank Senator Glazer for his continuing support of BART and public transit. I look forward to partnering with the senator on matters of mutual interest, including strengthening the Office of the Inspector General and helping support BART’s efforts to provide safe, world-class transit, invest in infrastructure renewal and address societal issues such as unhoused individuals within the BART system. I’m eagerly anticipating Chair Wiener’s appointment to this vacancy on the Senate Select Committee on Bay Area Public Transit.”
Allen responded writing, “I applauded CA Senator Glazer for standing up to Bay Area elected leaders to insist on accountability to transit riders and taxpayers. They deserve answers about how BART spends $2.5B plus annually and those answers aren’t easy to come by.
Senator Glazer and I have worked for over six years together to get answers and still continue to meet resistance in making meaningful independent oversight a permanent part of the BART culture. We have worked tirelessly over last 4 years on strengthening the role of the Office of Inspector General we created and built, while the majority of BART board directors, unions and executive staff continue to focus on the ‘more money please!’ approach. We saw it last week in BART’s annual Board Workshop and it seems Senator Glazer is seeing the same approach evolving from the Senate select Committee on Bay Area Public Transit. That will only produce more of the same failed policies we see now for BART.
I believe BART executive management and a majority of directors will continue to fight proper oversight. Unless our state leaders like Senator Glazer attach oversight strings to new funding at the state level to keep transit agencies accountable to the people who are paying for it, transit will continue to fail the riders, workers and the Bay Area.”
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