Contra Costa Herald

News Of By and For The People of Contra Costa County, California

September is National Preparedness Month

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This year’s theme: “Americans Stand Ready”

By Martinez Police Department

Emergencies can happen anytime, and being prepared ahead of time can make all the difference.

According to Ready.gov, an official website of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, “Each September, FEMA’s Ready Campaign celebrates National Preparedness Month…to encourage Americans to prepare for emergencies. The month is a great time to take small steps to make a big difference in being prepared. This year’s theme is, “Americans Stand Ready.”

FEMA’s Ready Campaign educates and empowers Americans to take some simple steps to prepare for and respond to potential emergencies, including those from natural hazards and man-made disasters. Ready asks individuals to do three key things: get an emergency supply kit, make a family emergency plan, and be informed about the different types of emergencies that could occur and appropriate responses. Everyone should have some basic supplies on hand in order to survive several days if an emergency occurs.

This list of emergency supply kit items is only a starting point. It is important that individuals review this list and consider the unique needs of their family, including pets, for items to include. Individuals should also consider having at least two emergency supply kits, one full kit at home and smaller portable kits in their workplace, vehicle or other places they spend time.

Take a few simple steps this month to help keep you and your family ready:

  • Know your risks
  • Make an emergency plan
  • Build a 72-hour kit (See FEMA’s Ready.gov Recommended Items to Include in a Basic Emergency Supply Kit checklist)
  • Get involved in your community

About Martinez CERT

Organized under FEMA, the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program educates residents about disaster preparedness and equips them with practical skills for handling emergencies in residential settings. The program’s training covers essential skills such as emergency first aid, fire suppression, basic search and rescue, radio usage, command structure

Trained CERT members are prepared to assist their families and neighbors during disasters when professional responders might be delayed. Developed originally by the Los Angeles City Fire Department, CERT became a national initiative in 1993. Today, with more than 3,200 local programs across all 50 states and over 600,000 trained individuals, CERT is an essential component to building a Culture of Preparedness in the United States.

Our partners with Martinez CERT play an important role in helping make our community stronger, safer, and more prepared. Whether it’s learning lifesaving skills, helping neighbors, or supporting first responders, CERT volunteers make a difference.

For more information visit Martinez Community Emergency Response Team.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

RESTORE launches Fall fundraising season to expand life-changing safe homes in Contra Costa County

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Faith-based organization aims to raise $175,000 for a 5th transitional home following milestone growth

By Mike Sisler Executive Director, RESTORE

CONCORD, CA — RESTORE (Restore Hope Dignity Life), a faith-based organization dedicated to life transformation through transitional housing and comprehensive support services, today announced the launch of its Fall fundraising season. The seasonal campaign fuels RESTORE’s ongoing doubling expansion plan, building on last year’s milestone addition of a fourth home to its network. At the conclusion of this Fall’s events, RESTORE aims to raise $150,000 to open a fifth home.

RESTORE’s holistic model integrates stable housing with personalized spiritual care and family reunification support, empowering residents to overcome hardship and achieve lasting recovery. Expanding its housing capacity allows RESTORE to double the number of men, women, and children it serves, directly meeting a vital need for compassionate, faith-based support in Contra Costa County.

“These events are transformative for the audience, the staff, and the residents, as all three groups experience the impact our safe homes and Christ-centered recovery programs have,” said Mike Sisler, Executive Director of RESTORE. “We sincerely invite all to attend.”

Event attendees will experience approximately 20 powerful mixed-media testimonials—featuring live personal stories, video presentations, and silent reading materials—that showcase the profound, real-world impact RESTORE has on individuals and families rebuilding their lives.

Fall Event Schedule

  • Community Presbyterian Church, Danville, CA: September 11, 2026
  • New Life Church, Concord, CA: October 2, 2026
  • Hillside Covenant Church, Walnut Creek, CA: November 6, 2026

To learn more about RESTORE, attend an upcoming fundraiser, or support the expansion plan, visit www.restore1.org or email Christine Thatcher at christinethatcher@restore1.org.

About RESTORE

Founded in Contra Costa County, RESTORE provides holistic, home-based programs to help individuals recover in all areas of life as they break free from addictions, re-story their lives, and reunify families. RESTORE’s mission is to provide men, women, and their children with safe homes and Christ-centered, 12-step recovery programs to restore hope, dignity, and life in them and the broader community. As a nonprofit, RESTORE operates through the generous support of individuals, partner churches, business donors, and grants.

24th Annual MRC-MEF Run for Education in Martinez Sept. 27

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During “Run for Education Week” beginning Monday, September 21

Help us cross the $2 million mark!

By Martinez Education Foundation

Get ready to run, walk or roll through Downtown Martinez on Sunday, September 27, for the 24th Annual MRC-MEF Run for Education! This community event brings people together to raise money for the Martinez Education Foundation (MEF) and directly supports Martinez Unified School District (MUSD) schools. The Alhambra High School Marching Band and Color Guard kick off the morning with music and school spirit for hundreds of students, educators, families and community members. This year’s Run features a logo designed by Alhambra High student Nayelie Rodrigez, which will appear on participant t-shirts.

Since 2003, the Run for Education has raised more than $1.9 million to support programs and resources for MUSD students such as technology, reading, science, art, math, and music. With this year’s event, organizers expect the Run’s cumulative fundraising total to surpass $2 million for local education. Among the many grant recipients, Alhambra High School received calculators for their Science Department. Biology and AP Environmental Science Teacher, Emily Ferrairo says, “The calculators are used all the time in our classrooms, especially in chemistry, physics, and AP Environmental Science classes. The grant eased my teaching duties because now students don’t have to use their Chromebooks to calculate problems and can use the calculator which removes the barrier of students trying to plug it all into their computer. Students are very thankful for the calculators and ask to use them all the time!”

Photo: MEF

John Swett Elementary teacher, Katie Page, says her grant has made a positive impact on her students’ music experience, “I have more instruments and a whole set up for school concerts. I am so grateful! My students love the new drums and Ukuleles, and I am loving my new keyboard for whole class instruction.”

What’s been termed “Run for Education Week” starts on Monday, September 21 with the MRC-MEF Fairways Fore! Futures Golf Tournament. MRC underwrites the cost of the Run and Golf Tournament. The total amount of money raised for MEF will be revealed on Race Day by Refinery Manager, Bevan Lewis, who says, “Our refinery is proud to have supported education in Martinez for decades. The Run for Education is a special tradition, and we’re grateful to our Contract Partners for their generous sponsorship of the Run and golf tournament. Supporting education is one of the most important investments we make in our community.”

MEF President and Race Director, Jack Funk points out, “Every year I am overwhelmed with the joy and support that the Martinez community has for its schools and students.  Our lead sponsor, The Martinez Refining Company, has taken that support to a whole new level with direct corporate donations to the Martinez Education Foundation and its extremely productive solicitation of the many businesses who donate to MEF through our Golf event as well as the Run itself.  We have tremendous gratitude to our sponsors but also to the hundreds of participants and volunteers that make this the wonderful community event that it has become.”

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to have fun and support Martinez Unified schools.

MRC-MEF Run for Education – Sunday, September 27, 2026

  • Start Time: 8:30 a.m. at Ward Street near Estudillo Street
  • Registration: Online https://www.martinezedfoundation.org/run-for-education/or in-person on event day
  • MUSD Students: Run free! (Discount is applied on the registration page automatically based on the entered date of birth.)
  • Volunteers Needed: Sign up at ca_mccauley@comcast.net
  • Student Volunteers: Sign up here.
  • Participants and spectators are encouraged to share their experience using #mrcmefrun.

Thank you to our sponsors and community partners who support the Run:

Emerald Sponsors, $5,000+

Air Liquide, Air Products and Chemicals, Inc., Brand Safway, Cust-O-Fab, Global Scaffolding, Harder Mechanical, HPC Industrial Services, KAP Project Services, North Coast Carpenters, Nooter, Roux Associates, Schultz Industrial Services, Stronghold Companies, UA Local 342, USA DeBusk, Worley

Diamond Circle Sponsors $2,500+

Evergreen
Platinum Sponsors $1,000+

Delta Tech, EUV Tech, Mangan, Nuvision Credit Union, Overaa, Shell Western States Credit Union, Worley

Gold Sponsors $500+

1st Northern California Credit, Travis Clauson

In kind donations provided by: Bill’s Ace Hardware, Martinez Police Department, Martinez Public Works, Martinez CERT, Martinez Unified School District.

For more information about the Martinez Education Foundation visit www.martinezedfoundation.org.

In Memoriam: Longtime Christian Service Brigade leader from Concord, Bob Nass passes at 84

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Robert “Bob” Walter Nass

July 17, 1942  –  August 2, 2026

U.S. Navy veteran and former Berean Christian High School bus driver

Robert Walter Nass, affectionately known best as Bob, died in Spokane, Washington on August 2nd, 2026, of complications from pancreatic cancer.

Bob and his wife Kristy lived in Concord, California for 49 years before moving up to Spokane, Washington on July 16th.

Bob was born July 17th, 1942, to Ottilie and Robert Nass in Huntington, New York. Bob proudly attended Stony Brook High School, earned his Bachelor’s degree from Ohio Wesleyan and CW Post college, and served three years in the United States Navy. He was a Naval officer in the Vietnam War from 1964 to 1967, earning the National Defense Service medal, the Republic of Vietnam Campaign medal, the Armed Forces Expeditionary medal, and the Vietnam Service medal. While serving in the Navy he also circumnavigated the globe in an ocean tug, earning the Order of Magellan.

He married his beloved wife of almost 50 years, Katherine Kristine Kvalheim (Kristy), on September 11th, 1976, in Madison, Wisconsin.

He served as the regional director for Christian Service Brigade and Sequoia Brigade Camp since 1976 and enjoyed canoeing, backpacking, camping, leading rousing rounds of camp songs and mentoring teens through his years of work. He drove a school bus for Berean Christian High School in Walnut Creek in his final years of life and continued his influence on the community of Christians in the Eastern San Francisco Bay Area. Bob and Kristy were blessed to attend Fair Oaks Church in Concord for almost 50 years where they built a community of beloved friends. Bob also was a member of the VFW, the VA, and the Toastmasters organization.

Bob was a pun master and would often be quiet for long periods of time before joining the conversation with a well-placed joke. Bob loved to read, enjoyed desserts and coffee, and was so generous with his time, home, and resources.

Bob is survived by his wife Kristy Nass, his son Bob Nass (Wendy), his four daughters Bethany Cseh (Jason), Krista Mason, Annalisa Lung (Matt), and Juli Taylor (John), his sister Bonnie Dunbar, and his two brothers Bill Nass and Todd Nass.

He is also survived by 16 loving grandchildren: Caleb (Kody), Brianna, and Erica Nass; Isaac, Emmiley, and Antonio Cseh; Andrew and Dylan Mason; Brooklynne, Cooper, Callie, Elliott, Kennedy, and Forrest Lung; James and Katie Taylor and one great grandchild on the way.

Well done good and faithful servant. Enter into the joy of your rest.

A Graveside service for Bob was held on August 4 at Washington State Veterans Cemetery in Medical Lake, WA and a Memorial Service was held for him on August 29 at Fair Oaks Church in Concord, CA. (See video and slideshow)

(Originally published by Hennessey Funeral Home & Crematory. Visit their website to share a memory. Republished with the family’s permission).

Multi-agency Internet Crimes Against Children operation ends with five men arrested

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A child predator was arrested using drone technology during a recent ICAC operation. Photo & video screenshot: Walnut Creek PD

They came to meet a child. They met Walnut Creek PD instead.

One each from Concord, Antioch, Walnut Creek, Marin County & visiting from Germany

By Walnut Creek Police Department

The Walnut Creek Police Department recently hosted a multi-agency operation with the Contra Costa County Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, targeting adults who used social media to target children for sexual exploitation. Five adults traveled to Walnut Creek believing they were meeting a child. All now face charges including attempted lewd acts with a minor (PC 664/288(a)), contacting a minor to commit a sex offense (PC 288.3(a)), and arranging to meet a minor for sex (PC 288.4(b)).

5 arrests:

  • Andrew Garcia, 32, Concord
  • Billie Ray Breland, 29, Antioch (born 02/12/1997)
  • Rudolf Naused Robl, 42, visiting from Germany (born 07/04/1984)
  • Jacek Markiewicz, 67, Walnut Creek, also charged with attempted kidnapping
  • Taesu Park, 36, Marin County

Photos: Walnut Creek PD

The ICAC Task Force exists to identify predators before a real child is harmed, combining investigations, training, and victim support across our region. Operations like this one are the result of that work.

Thank you to our partnering agencies for their work on this operation: Contra Costa County Sheriff, Contra Costa County District Attorney, FBI San Francisco, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Secret Service, U.S. Customs & Border Protection, Contra Costa County Probation Department, Moraga, Brentwood, San Ramon, Concord, Hercules, Pleasant Hill, Oakley and Menlo Park Police Departments, Contra Costa County MCTF, San Francisco Sheriff’s Office and Marin County DA.

Child predators arrested in Walnut Creek with the help of Contra Costa Sheriff’s Deputies. Photos: Walnut Creek PD

According to the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, the five-foot, 11-inch tall, 237-pound Breland is Hispanic, was arrested on July 23rd and is being held in a Custody Alternative Facility on $50,000 bail. He’s also listed as White and as of Aug. 3, 2026, at 10:25 AM, he was released to Off Grounds Unsupervised Custody.

According to the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, the five-foot, 10-inch tall, 200-pound Robl is Hispanic, but also listed as White, was arrested on July 26, is being held in the West Re-Entry Treatment and Housing facility on $475,000 bail. His next court date is scheduled for Aug. 28 at 8:30 AM in Martinez Superior Court Department 5.

According to localcrimenews.com, Park is a resident of Richmond and was charged with attempted kidnapping, attempted lewd acts with a child, attempting to contact a minor with intent to commit an offense, distributing or sending harmful matter to a minor by any means, and 288.4(A)(2) – Prior Conviction Enhancement. Every person who violates this subdivision after a prior conviction for an offense listed in subdivision (c) of Section 290, he Sex Offender Registration Act, shall be punished by imprisonment in the state prison.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Upgrades Ahead: Ygnacio Valley Library to close for major improvements

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Photo: CCC Library

Beginning September 9, reopening approximately May 31, 2027

By Contra Costa County Library

The Ygnacio Valley Library, on Oak Grove Road in Walnut Creek, is preparing to turn an exciting new page. The branch will temporarily close starting September 9 through approximately May 31, 2027, to undergo essential infrastructure and facility improvements designed to enhance climate control, safety, and energy efficiency for the community.

As part of Contra Costa County Library’s ongoing effort to update and maintain its facilities, this project will address critical structural and interior building systems:

  • HVAC System Replacement: Installation of an all-electric, energy-efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures year-round.
  • Roofing Upgrades: Replacement of the building’s roof to protect the facility and ensure long-term stability.
  • Electrical & Lighting Upgrades: Comprehensive updates to electrical infrastructure alongside energy-efficient lighting upgrades throughout the branch.

This renovation project is made possible through dedicated local support from Measure X funds, supplemented by Contra Costa County Library reserves.

  • Closure Timeline: The Ygnacio Valley Library will temporarily close beginning Wednesday, September 9, and reopening approximately May 31, 2027.
    • Tuesday, September 8, is the final day for patrons to pick up existing holds at the Ygnacio Valley branch.
    • Starting September 9, 2026, all uncollected holds will be moved to the Walnut Creek Library (1644 N. Broadway, Walnut Creek).

During the closure period, the book drop and parking lot will be closed. Books and other physical materials can be borrowed or returned at any open Contra Costa County Library branch, including the Walnut Creek, Clayton, Concord and Pleasant Hill libraries.

For account questions during the closure, please call (800) 984-4636.

Martinez to hold Sesquicentennial Festival August 29th

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150 Years of Cityhood – “A celebration of our community, by our community!”

Past, Present, Future, Together

“Martinez’s Sesquicentennial is a celebration of where we’ve been and where we’re going. Together, we will honor our past, embrace our present and build a future that reflects the spirit and resilience of our community.” – Mayor Zorn

By City of Martinez

Celebrate 150 years of Martinez with us! Join the City of Martinez for our Sesquicentennial Festival on August 29, 2026, from 11am–7pm at the Martinez Marina and Waterfront Park.

Enjoy this once‑in‑a‑generation, waterfront‑wide celebration honoring the history, spirit, and people of Martinez. Spanning Waterfront Park, and the Martinez Marina area, the festival brings neighbors, families and local organizations together for a full day of music, activities, and community pride.

“I am honored to be part of this chapter in Martinez’s history,” said Mayor Brianne Zorn. “As we celebrate 150 years, we are taking the opportunity to express gratitude for all that has been built by those before us and also look ahead with optimism and commitment to building a vibrant future for the next generations.”

From live music and kayaks to art activities and kites, there’s something for everyone. Plus, with our partnership with the Bay Area Craft Beer Festival from 1pm–6pm, you can enjoy an incredible selection of craft brews as part of the festivities!

Bring your family, invite your friends and spend the day enjoying all the fun, energy and community spirit that makes Martinez special!

August 29, 2026

Main Festival 11am-7pm

Beer Festival 1-6pm

Planned in partnership with Downtown Martinez & Co. and the Bay Area Craft Beer Festival, the event features expanded entertainment and hands‑on experiences that showcase the best of our community.

All Community Activities Are FREE! Festival Features & Activities:

  • Main Stage live music
  • Climbing wall
  • Foam parties
  • Kids’ obstacle course
  • Kids’ zone with arts &crafts, and soft‑play activities
  • Bike Zone
  • Splash‑bash water fun
  • Bocce
  • Kite Zone: First 500 kids get a free kite!
  • Face painting
  • Bubble fun
  • Kayak tours
  • Rowboat races
  • Community Stage performances

Source: City of Martinez

Kit Zone – Let’s go fly a kite, Martinez!

At our Sesquicentennial Festival, we’re celebrating one of our most colorful local traditions: the kites that regularly paint the sky above the Marina!

We’re thrilled to spotlight our very own “Kite Man of Martinez,” Tony Jetland and better known as “KMOM”, whose vibrant kites have become a beloved part of our waterfront. KMOM will be flying his jaw dropping kites in the Kite Zone, where he’s also generously giving away 500 free kites to let families join in the fun and fill the sky with color. This is a great opportunity to meet KMOM and see his kites in action. Thank you also to the John Muir Association and the Boy Scouts Troop 429, who will be supporting the Kite Zone throughout the day.

Come be part of this hometown tradition and help us make the Marina soar during our 150th celebration!

Retail items celebrating Martinez, food trucks and beverages will be scattered throughout the Festival for purchase. Beer Fest is a ticketed event, and you can pre-purchase tickets at www.downtownmartinez.org.

Thank you to our Sponsors

We gratefully acknowledge our generous sponsors for supporting this milestone celebration!

TruGreen, SecureSpace, First Baptist Church Martinez, Muir Family Dentistry, John Muir Association and IBEW Local 302.

We’ll be sharing more info about the day and have some fun surprises already in store, so save the date and stay tuned! Learn more at: www.cityofmartinez.org/150festival

Source: City of Martinez

Sesquicentennial Year 2026

The City was incorporated on April 1, 1876 – no fooling! To mark this momentous occasion, the City has been undertaking initiatives and events throughout the 2026 calendar year.

As Martinez moves through 2026, the Sesquicentennial theme of Past, Present, Future, Together will serve as the guiding vision to make sure each facet of our collective story remains at the center of our community’s celebration and commemoration. This theme reflects the City’s strength of connection to its history, the importance and influence of today’s community, and the optimistic look ahead at our future together.

“Martinez’s Sesquicentennial is a celebration of where we’ve been and where we’re going. Together, we will honor our past, embrace our present and build a future that reflects the spirit and resilience of our community.” – Mayor Zorn

Source: City of Martinez

Sesquicentennial Anniversary

The City proudly celebrated its Sesquicentennial Anniversary on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at Martinez City Hall, marking 150 years since Martinez’s incorporation. The City was grateful to celebrate this milestone with residents, families and visitors from around the Bay Area.

Attendees enjoyed live music from the Martinez Junior High Jazz Band, light appetizers, a celebratory dessert, and the popular Flower Bouquet Bar. The festive atmosphere set a joyful tone leading into the evening’s commemorations.

Then the City Council convened a special meeting honoring Martinez’s 150th Anniversary of Incorporation. The program included congratulatory messages and presentations highlighting Sesquicentennial initiatives taking place throughout the year.

The meeting reflected on the City’s rich history, recognized its ongoing progress, and honored the community’s contributions over the past 150 years.

Photo: City of Martinez

150 Trees for 150 Years Planting Project

More than 150 new trees have been planted across the City in advance of the Sesquicentennial on April 1, 2026! New plantings can be found along Alhambra Avenue, Marina Vista, Arnold Drive and other key corridors, where over ten species, such as Crepe Myrtle, Chitalpa, Valley Oak and Coast Live Oak, were chosen for their beauty and proven success in our local climate.

Source: City of Martinez

This citywide beautification effort not only honors the Sesquicentennial but also enhances Martinez’s long-term environmental health. As part of this project, improvements to medians and irrigation systems will support the trees’ growth and longevity. Additional shrubs and plantings will also be added to the improved medians to create a more vibrant, sustainable landscape throughout the community.

With the trees now in the ground and beginning to take root, residents will see this green transformation unfold throughout 2026. These plantings stand as a lasting tribute to Martinez’s past and a hopeful symbol of the City’s next 150 years!

Park System Master Plan Update 2026

The Martinez Parks System Master Plan is being updated in 2026, and will provide a clear, community-driven vision to guide the development, enhancement, and long-term stewardship of the City’s park and open space system over the next 15 years.

A comprehensive effort to re‑envision Martinez’s parks, open spaces, and recreation facilities for generations to come. Through community collaboration and thoughtful planning, this update will provide a roadmap to enhance existing spaces, expand opportunities, and strengthen connection between people and their parks.

Developing a successful and realistic Master Plan requires a thoughtful, step-by-step process. This includes assessing current conditions, identifying opportunities for enhancement, and engaging with the community to understand local needs and priorities.

Ultimately, the Master Plan will serve as a roadmap for creating a healthy, connected, and dynamic park system that supports the well-being of Martinez residents today and for generations to come!

The completed plan will:

  • Assess current park conditions, amenities, and service levels;
  • Identify priorities for investment, rehabilitation, and expansion;
  • Promote environmental resilience and sustainable maintenance practices;
  • Reflect evolving recreation trends and demographic changes; and
  • Strengthen the connection between people, nature, and community life.

Draft Master Plan for public review in fall 2026 and City Council adoption tentatively expected winter 2026.

Join us on Wednesday, September 2nd at 5:30 p.m. to help shape the future of local parks and recreation! The City will be hosting a Council Workshop in the Martinez City Hall Council Chamber at 525 Henrietta Street, to review draft findings and preliminary recommendations that have come through the first eight months of the Park System Master Plan update process.

More information at www.cityofmartinez.org/parks2026 and follow the City’s Facebook page.

City of Martinez 150 Utility Box Art Program location map. Source: City of Martinez

Utility Box Art Program

Celebrating Community through Public Art!

A creative beautification project that will transform utility boxes throughout the City into works of public art celebrating Martinez’s culture, history and community.

As part of the City’s Sesquicentennial celebration, the Sesquicentennial Utility Box Art Project is underway to bring more public art to our community. The Project will transform five utility boxes across Martinez into vibrant public art celebrating our community’s culture, history, and spirit. Created and selected by the community, the artwork reflects the Sesquicentennial theme, Past, Present, Future, Together, highlighting what makes Martinez such a great community.

From June 1, 2026 until July 20, 2026, a total of 3,844 community votes were submitted through PollUnit, a device-based online voting platform. The five designs with the highest number of votes were presented to the City Council on August 5, 2026 and approved. After designs are finalized and fit to the vinyl wrap vendor specifications, the installation is expected to be completed in Fall 2026.  More information at www.cityofmartinez.org/utilityboxart.

District Community Sessions 

The City hosted district Community Sessions January – February 2026 to kick off the Sesquicentennial year! Community members met their District Representative and the Mayor and heard about major City initiatives that were planned or already underway.

The Sessions focused on:

  • The Sesquicentennial Celebration year
  • The City’s 4‑Year Strategic Plan
  • The Waterfront and Marina Revitalization Project
  • The Park Masterplan Update

By hosting one session in each district, the City made sure these conversations were accessible to everyone. Whichever session residents attended, they experienced the same topics and discussions, ensuring that all community members could take part in shaping our shared future. More information including Strategic Plan Presentation Slides at Community Sessions 2026.

Learn about the City Hall Building History and the Mayor and Former Mayors of Martinez.

For more information about the City of Martinez Sesquicentennial visit www.cityofmartinez.org/150.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Help shape Clayton’s Emergency Operations Plan Aug. 27

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In-person or online

By City of Clayton

The City of Clayton is updating its Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) — the official roadmap that guides how we prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies like wildfires, floods, earthquakes, and more.

Join us for an informative Community Engagement Meeting as we kick off this important (and lengthy) update process.

Thursday, August 27 at 7:00 PM

In-Person: Hoyer Hall (Clayton Community Library), 6125 Clayton Road

Virtual: Join via Zoom — find the link on the City’s calendar at www.claytonca.gov or at www.claytonca.gov/239/Police

What we’ll cover:

  • What is an Emergency Operations Plan?
  • The planning process & timelines
  • How you can engage and share feedback

The City of Clayton’s EOP was last revised in 2012. This important undertaking will bring our emergency preparedness framework in line with current best practices, ensuring the City is ready to respond effectively to a wide range of emergencies and disasters. The process involves close coordination with local, county, and state agencies, as well as community stakeholders, to create a plan that reflects the needs and resources of our entire community.

The City Council has approved a contract with Brenna Howell Emergency Management (Brenna Howell Emergency Management) to serve as the City’s consultant throughout this effort. Over the coming months, the update will include opportunities for community engagement, staff training exercises, and a thorough review of hazards, resources, and response procedures. This methodical approach is expected to conclude by the first quarter of 2027. We look forward to this important process and to delivering an updated, robust resource that will help keep our City and community safe and prepared for years to come.

Download the City of Clayton Emergency Operations Plan 2012 (PDF)

Learn more at Emergency Preparedness | Clayton, CA.

Your voice matters. Come learn about the process and help us build a stronger, more prepared Clayton.

We hope to see you there — in person or online!

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

City of Clayton to hold first of two Town Hall meetings Aug. 26

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Source: City of Clayton

Learn about finances, Landscape and Maintenance District

After council placed one-percent sales tax, landscape maintenance assessment measures on November ballot

By City of Clayton

We have a couple of Town Hall meetings coming soon. On August 26 and October 7 (both are Wednesdays), join us from 6-8 pm to learn more about the City of Clayton’s financial picture and the Landscape and Maintenance District.

In June, the Clayton City Council voted unanimously to place a one percent (1%) local sales tax measure on the November ballot as Measure M.

The language reads, “CITY OF CLAYTON SALES TAX MEASURE. To provide local funding to maintain City of Clayton programs, services, and facilities, including: police services, traffic enforcement and road safety, road and sidewalk improvements, enhance library and recreation opportunities, park maintenance, recruitment and retention of city employees and other city services, shall the City of Clayton levy a 1% sales tax until ended by voters generating approximately $1,000,000 annually, subject to public review, the annual audit and all funds benefitting Clayton?”

On July 7, the Council voted unanimously to also place on the November ballot a renewal of the Landscape and Maintenance District as Measure N. The language reads: “CITYWIDE LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE EXTENSION AND ALTERATION OF RATE OF EXISTING SPECIAL TAX. Shall the measure to fund on-going trail system operations and maintenance, roadway landscaping, open space weed abatement, and related services of the Clayton Community Facility District No. 2007-1 (Citywide Landscape Maintenance) by extending the special tax for ten years and amending its rate and method of apportionment of the special tax to $354.54/year per residential and $354.54/acre per non-residential parcels, for FYs 2027-2037, including annual inflationary adjustments to the special tax rates not to exceed 3% per year, and subject to continued citizen’s committee oversight, be approved?”

In City Manager Kris Loftus’ August Newsletter he wrote, “Like many California communities, Clayton faces rising costs, aging infrastructure, increasing service demands, and limited revenue growth. These challenges require responsible financial decisions and careful stewardship of public resources. Our focus remains on maintaining essential services, investing in infrastructure, and ensuring the City’s long-term financial sustainability.”

To learn more before the meeting, check out the City Manager’s Newsletters on our website – https://www.claytonca.gov/317/City-Manager-Newsletter.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Only one challenger in Martinez council races

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Martinez incumbent District 1 Councilman Jay Howard will face challenger Nakenya Allen in the November election. Photos: City of Martinez and Allen for Council campaign website.

Mayor, one councilmember face no opposition

By City of Martinez

The nomination period for the November 2026 City election has officially closed. The following candidates have qualified:

Mayor: Brianne Zorn (incumbent)

District 1: Jay Howard (incumbent) and Nakenya Allen

District 4: Debbie McKillop (incumbent)

With the Mayor and District 4 seats uncontested, the City Council will discuss election options for these two offices at the next City Council meeting. The Council may either appoint the nominated candidates in lieu of holding an election, or have the election proceed as scheduled, in accordance with California Elections Code Section 10229. Savings associated with appointment rather than an election for these two seats are between $55,000 – $80,000 of City funds. The District 1 race will continue as planned on November 3, 2026, regardless of how the Mayor and District 4 seats are handled.

Community members are encouraged to attend and share feedback at the meeting on Wednesday, August 19th at 7:00 pm.

Martinz Mayor Brianne Zorn and District 4 Councilwoman Debbie McKillip face no opposition for re-election. Photos: City of Martinez

About the Incumbents and Challenger

According to her bio on the City’s website, Zorn is currently serving in her first term as mayor and “was elected to the Martinez City Council as Councilmember for District 3 in November 2020, and as Mayor in November 2022.”

According to her bio, McKillop is currently serving in her third term and “was elected to the Martinez City Council in 2014 and served as Vice Mayor in 2017, 2021, and 2024.”

According to his official bio, Howard is running for re-elect and “was elected Councilmember in November 2022. He is the third generation of his family to be born and raised in the Alhambra Valley. Since 2014, Jay has been the Superintendent for G Swanson Construction. He is very active in the community where he serves as a board member for the Nor Cal Carpenters Regional Council, Union Local 152, Loaves and Fishes, the Historical Society, and serves as a delegate to the Carpenter’s Regional Council (spanning 46 counties). Jay lives in Martinez with his lovely wife and two children. When he has some downtime, he is an avid hiker and enjoys extreme skiing.”

According to her campaign website, Allen says about herself, “I am a longtime Martinez resident, community organizer, proud mother, and dedicated advocate for a safer, more inclusive city. I hold a degree in Veterinary Technology and loved the time I spent working in animal hospitals and shelters, rescuing and rehoming pets. When I became a mother to a son who is medically sensitive with severe special needs, my priorities shifted profoundly. I now focus on his health and well-being, while working to build a community where every resident is valued, supported, and given the opportunity to thrive. In my rare moments of free time, I enjoy practicing Muay Thai and making my own holistic hair products.”

Allen is Vice President and District 5 Ambassador for the Contra Costa County Commission for Women and Girls, a member of the County’s Family and Children’s Trust (FACT) Committee, and a member of the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) of Contra Costa County.

The election is Nov. 3rd.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.