Contra Costa Herald

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

Drone operator charged for flight near Levi’s Stadium during NFL game

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Violated temporary restrictions at Rams vs. Niners contest on Nov. 9, 2025; faces one year in prison and $100K fine

No Drone Zones this week in S.F., at Levi’s Stadium for Super Bowl LX & related events; violators face up to $75K fine, more

By Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle Lo, PIO, U.S. Attorney’s Office, Northern District of California

SAN JOSE – A San Francisco man was charged in a federal criminal complaint for flying a drone within restricted airspace surrounding Levi’s Stadium during a National Football League (NFL) game in violation of a temporary flight restriction (TFR) imposed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

According to the criminal complaint and court documents filed today, Junwei Guo, 27, operated a drone within the airspace surrounding Levi’s Stadium on Nov. 9, 2025, during a game between the San Francisco 49ers and the Los Angeles Rams.  As court documents describe, the FAA has issued a TFR that prohibits all aircraft, including drones, from operating within a three nautical mile radius of any stadium with a seating capacity of 30,000 or more people during, among other events, regular or post-season NFL games.  The “stadium TFR” classifies the airspace defined in the restriction as “National Defense Airspace” and remains in effect for a specified time period before, during, and after the qualifying event.

The complaint alleges that Guo flew the drone as high as approximately 2,300 feet above ground level, an altitude that raises significant concerns for public safety and the potential disruption air traffic control in the area.  Guo allegedly did not register the drone with the FAA, obtain a remote pilot’s certificate with the FAA, obtain FAA authorization to fly the drone in national defense airspace, or comply with the requirements of the FAA’s recreational use exception.

United States Attorney Craig H. Missakian and FBI Special Agent in Charge Sanjay Virmani made the announcement.

Defendant is scheduled to appear in federal court in San Jose on Feb. 27, 2026, for an initial appearance.

A complaint merely alleges that a crime has been committed, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.  If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum sentence of one year in prison and a $100,000 fine for the charged violation of national defense airspace under 49 U.S.C. § 46307.  Any sentence following conviction would be imposed by the court after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of a sentence, 18 U.S.C. § 3553.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Christina Liu is prosecuting the case with the assistance of Natachiana Burney.  The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the FBI, the Federal Air Marshal Service, and the Santa Clara Police Department.

No Drone Zone for Super Bowl LX Week

The FAA, in coordination with the FBI, has established a “No Drone Zone” for Super Bowl LX at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara on Feb. 8, 2026, with additional drone restrictions surrounding Levi’s Stadium and in downtown San Francisco during the days leading up to the event. Areas include the Moscone Center, The Pearl, The Ferry Building, Grace Cathedral and the Palace of Fine Arts.

Drone operators who enter restricted airspace without authorization may face fines of up to $75,000, drone confiscation and federal criminal charges, with the FBI identifying operators, seizing drones, and supporting prosecution

For more information, please visit: https://www.faa.gov/newsroom/faa-and-fbi-announce-strict-no-drone-zones-super-bowl-lx.

Further Information:

Case No. 26-cr-70083-MAG

Electronic court filings and further procedural and docket information are available at https://ecf.cand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. Judges’ calendars with schedules for upcoming court hearings can be viewed on the court’s website at www.cand.uscourts.gov.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

City of San Pablo launches new Marketing and Branding Program for Economic Development and Housing

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Source: City of San Pablo

$150,000 two-year agreement with Irvine-based consultant

The City of San Pablo is proud to announce the adoption of its new Marketing and Branding Program for Economic Development and Housing, a strategic initiative designed to strengthen the city’s identity, attract investment, and foster community engagement.

In partnership with Irvine-based marketing, technology and public affairs firm, Tripepi Smith & Associates, the City has developed a comprehensive economic corridor brand system that reflects San Pablo’s unique position in the Bay Area, its relative affordability and its business-friendly environment. This effort supports reinvestment, business attraction, and placemaking, key priorities outlined in the City Council’s Economic Development Strategy.

Residents and merchants will soon see the new branding come to life across the city, including street pole banners in commercial districts and other public and private spaces. The program introduces a family of corridor-level sub-brands, enabling the City to communicate more effectively about distinct areas and opportunities while building confidence among investors and strengthening resident engagement. With the new brand statement of: “Growing Forward, Grounded in Community”, city staff, partners and business community can lean into San Pablo’s sense of place that is shaped by diverse cultures, strengthened by community pride, that is positioned at the heart of the Bay Area.

During their meeting on March 3, 2025, the City Council adopted a resolution authorizing the city manager to execute a consulting services agreement with Tripepi Smith & Associates in an amount not to exceed $150,000 over two years. It passed on a 4-0 vote with Councilmember Abel Pineda absent.

“Tripepi Smith collaborated closely with City staff and community stakeholders to understand San Pablo, where we are today and where we are trying to go,” said Kieron Slaughter, Economic Development & Housing Manager. “The result is a clear, functional brand system that supports one of the City Council’s priorities and implements a key action from our Economic Development Strategy. This gives us a stronger platform to attract investment, support local businesses, and communicate our vision in a more coordinated way.”

The branding initiative included a robust discovery phase, ensuring that key messaging and logos are adaptable for multiple uses from business outreach to community-building communications. The resulting Branding Toolkit provides staff with practical tools for outreach, marketing, and partnership conversations, positioning San Pablo as a city that is thoughtful, prepared, and open to opportunity.

“San Pablo’s new branding program reflects our commitment to reinvestment, community pride, and a thriving local economy. By embracing a unified identity rooted in our diverse culture and strategic Bay Area location, we’re strengthening our ability to attract investment, support local businesses, and ‘grow forward’ together,” stated San Pablo Mayor Elizabeth Pabon-Alvarado.

As of February 2026, Tripepi Smith is working with the City on an implementation plan and communication materials to roll out the new brand system citywide.  

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Agreement reached on $590 million loan for Bay Area transit agencies

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Benefits AC Transit, BART in Contra Costa County

Provides “fiscal bridge” until revenue from possible 5-county sales tax increase measure on November ballot kicks in

By Rebecca Long, Director, Legislation & Public Affairs and John Goodwin, Assistant Director of Communications, Metropolitan Transportation Commission

SAN FRANCISCO, Jan. 30, 2026… The Office of Governor Newsom, the California Department of Finance and the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) on Friday reached an agreement on a $590 million loan for Bay Area transit agencies that will avert major service cuts at AC Transit, BART, Caltrain and SF Muni during the 2026-27 fiscal year that begins July 1. Negotiated in close coordination with the affected transit agencies — which together face a projected deficit of more than $800 million in the next fiscal year — the new agreement will sustain operations used by hundreds of thousands of daily transit riders across the region.

“California is following through in our support for Bay Area transit and the riders who rely on it every day,” said Gov. Newsom. “This agreement between my Administration and the Metropolitan Transportation Commission provides essential short-term financing to support Bay Area transit operations while the region works together on long-term funding solutions. Public transit is essential to our economy and to communities across California, and through continued partnership with regional and local agencies, we are delivering a more stable and reliable system – now and for the future.”

A regional funding measure authorized by the Legislature last year via state Senate Bill 63, authored by senators Scott Wiener of San Francisco and Jesse Arreguín of Berkeley, may appear on the November 2026 ballot in Contra Costa, Alameda, San Francisco, San Mateo and Santa Clara counties. If the measure qualifies for the ballot and is approved by voters, it would establish a temporary 14-year sales tax to support transit operations. But these funds would not begin flowing until around July 1, 2027. The state loan provides a fiscal bridge until the sales tax dollars potentially could be available. (See related articles here and here)

“Today is a huge win for Bay Area transit and for both transit riders and drivers,” said Sen.  Wiener. “For the past year, we’ve worked hard to craft a bridge loan to ensure BART, Muni, Caltrain and AC Transit are not forced to enact massive service cuts — potentially going into a death spiral — as we build toward a regional revenue measure to stabilize and strengthen these systems for the long run. I’m proud of our work with regional stakeholders and the Governor to make this loan a reality. Public transportation is part of the Bay Area’s lifeblood, and we must do everything in our power to strengthen it and protect it from service cuts. So many Bay Area residents rely on transit to get to work, school, or family, and service cuts would also explode traffic congestion. We must not let this happen, and we won’t let it happen.”

Today’s agreement authorizes the loan to be funded no later than July 1, 2026, using money awarded but not yet allocated for Bay Area projects by the California Transportation Commission through the state Transit Intercity Rail Capital Program (TIRCP). Because many transit capital projects have long construction timelines and the TIRCP is continuously replenished, the loan is structured to uphold the state’s commitments to awarded projects while minimizing risk to project schedules.

“MTC greatly appreciates the time and energy the Department of Finance and the Governor’s office put into this loan negotiation,” said Commission Chair Sue Noack, who represents Contra Costa County and also serves as mayor of Pleasant Hill. “It was critical to reach agreement on funding that would avert major service cuts this year while also protecting the Bay Area’s priority capital projects and this agreement does just that.”

Consistent with state Senate Bill 105 enacted last fall, the loan agreement includes a clearly defined repayment structure, a guaranteed revenue source to secure the loan and an agreed-upon interest rate:

  • 12-year repayment term, with interest-only payments during the first two years.
  • Repayment secured by the “revenue-based” portion of State Transit Assistance (STA) that goes directly to the transit agencies.
  • Variable interest rate tied to the state’s Surplus Money Investment Fund, ensuring the state is fully repaid at the same rate it would have earned had the funds remained in state accounts.

BART General Manager Bob Powers noted that his agency, “is currently developing detailed budget plans for two funding scenarios to close our projected $376 million operating deficit for Fiscal Year 2027 through either new revenue and efficiencies or through service reductions, station closures, fare increases, layoffs, and across-the-board internal cuts. A state loan gives us reassurance money will be available to continue to deliver the best service possible for the Bay Area. We are thankful to Governor Newsom and the Department of Finance for finding a path to fund transit operations during such an unprecedented scenario brought on by the pandemic and remote work. We also thank the Bay Area Legislative Caucus for their supportive efforts and look forward to working with the Legislature on early action to include the loan within the state budget.”

“This bridge loan will help us maintain Muni service for one crucial year for everyone who depends on transit to get where they need to go,” said Julie Kirschbaum, Director of Transportation at the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency, which operates Muni. “We thank the Metropolitan Transportation Commission for its leadership and the Governor and the Department of Finance for their collaboration. We are deeply appreciative of the tireless efforts of Mayor Daniel Lurie, State Senator Scott Wiener, State Senator Jesse Arreguín, the Bay Area Legislative Caucus, the Board of Supervisors and the transit advocates who kept this loan alive last year. With this key agreement completed, securing the additional funding we need to address our ongoing deficit is the critical priority.”

“San Francisco’s recovery is essential to the success of our region and our state,” noted Mayor Daniel Lurie. “Our city cannot continue its comeback without a safe, reliable transit system. This agreement is a major step forward towards securing the bridge loan needed to sustain our comeback and ensure transit systems can continue serving the families, seniors, students, and workers who rely on them every day. We’re already delivering greater accountability and efficiency for Muni, and ridership is continuing to climb toward pre-pandemic levels. I’m grateful to our partners at MTC and Governor Newsom for finalizing the agreement and prioritizing our city and our region’s recovery.”

Caltrain General Manager Michelle Bouchard made a similar point, “We are so grateful to the Governor, our delegation members, and our state and regional partners for stepping in and supporting public transit in the Bay Area at this critical time. This loan will allow us to preserve the service that made Caltrain the fastest growing transit agency in the U.S.”

“For 65 years, AC Transit’s north star has been delivering safe, reliable, and affordable bus service to the East Bay,” said Salvador Llamas, AC Transit General Manager and CEO. “That legacy was put at risk by unprecedented pandemic-related budget shortfalls. This state loan safeguards existing service levels and brings immediate relief to the more than 3 million riders each month who were at risk of losing some of the service they rely upon for the essentials of life. We thank Governor Newsom and our local and state partners for making this possible, and while long-term funding challenges remain, today we celebrate a critical win for our riders and communities.”

Senate Bill 63 co-author Jesse Arreguín also sounded a note of thanks, “I am grateful to the Governor and my legislative colleagues for supporting Bay Area transit with this loan. This agreement is a huge win to keep our transit agencies running and ensure that the Bay Area can continue as a major economic engine, while not compromising critical transit projects. At a time when we are at risk of significant service cuts that would grind the region to a halt, this additional funding will provide a vital lifeline to the Bay Area’s major transit agencies and provide fiscal stability as we move forward on a broader regional self-help measure this year.”

Congressman DeSaulnier to host Town Hall in Pleasant Hill Feb. 7

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Will speak about efforts to impeach Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, other matters

By Mairead Glowacki, Communications Director, Office of Congressman Mark DeSaulnier

Walnut Creek, CA – Today, Congressman Mark DeSaulnier (D, CA-10) announced he will host a town hall in Pleasant Hill on Saturday, February 7th from 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. PT. At this event, the Congressman will speak to his efforts to rein in illegal actions by the Trump Administration, including his support for impeaching Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, and his work in Congress to lower costs for American families. He will also take questions from constituents.

Town Hall in Pleasant Hill

Saturday, February 7th

12:30 – 1:30 p.m.

Pleasant Hill, CA

The event is RSVP only and capacity is limited. To reserve your spot and receive the address of the event, or to request special accommodations, visit https://desaulnier.house.gov/town-hall-rsvp or call (925) 933-2660.

This will be Congressman DeSaulnier’s 257th town hall and mobile district office hour since first serving Congress in January 2015. The 10th Congressional District currently includes most of Contra Costa County.

Serve on the Contra Costa County Civil Grand Jury

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Investigate the operations of local government officers, departments and agencies

Application deadline: March 13, 2026

By Contra Costa County Grand Jurors Association

The Contra Costa County Superior Court is accepting applications for Civil Grand Jury Service for the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 term.

Contra Costa County’s Grand Jury consists of 19 citizens. A new Grand Jury is impaneled each year. Grand Jurors are officers of the Court, and function as an independent body under the guidance of a Superior Court Judge. Jurors are impaneled in June and are expected to attend a two-week training in June. Each term serves through June of the following calendar year.

Every year, in each of California’s 58 counties, a group of ordinary citizens takes an oath to serve as grand jurors. Its function is to investigate the operations of the various officers, departments and agencies of local government. Each Civil Grand Jury determines which officers, departments and agencies it will investigate during its term of office.

Apart from the investigations mandated by the California Penal Code, each County’s Grand Jury decides what it will investigate. Investigations may be initiated in response to letters from citizens, newspaper articles and personal knowledge.

If you are interested in applying, please complete the application and review the timeline below.

https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/…/2026-2027-cgj…

https://contracosta.courts.ca.gov/…/6-timeline-2026…

Source: Contra Costa County Superior Court

Application deadline is 5:00 PM on March 13, 2026.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors installs new leadership

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District 3 Supervisor Diane Burgis is given her oath of office as the new Chair for the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors by Judge Edward G. Weil as District 4 Supervisor Ken Carlson and her stepmother, Nancy Peterson, look on during ceremonies on Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2026. Photos: CCCounty

Diane Burgis takes helm as Chair, Ken Carlson to serve as Vice Chair

By Kristi Jourdan, PIO, Contra Costa County

(Martinez, CA) – The Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors held its annual reorganization meeting Tuesday at the County Administration Building, ushering in a new chapter of leadership. District 3 Supervisor Diane Burgis was sworn in as Chair, and District 4 Supervisor Ken Carlson assumed the role of Vice Chair. Their oaths of office were administered by the Honorable Edward G. Weil, a Superior Court judge in Contra Costa County.

Supervisor Burgis represents the 222,000 residents of District 3, which includes a portion of Antioch, plus, Bethel Island, Brentwood, Byron, Discovery Bay, Knightsen and Oakley. First elected in 2016 and reelected in 2024, she serves on over 30 local and regional committees, including as Chair of the Legislation Committee, and the Internal Operations Committee. She also leads California’s Delta Protection Commission and serves on the State’s Delta Stewardship Council.

“At a time when our communities are facing complex challenges, I look forward to advancing solutions that strengthen emergency preparedness and public safety, expand access to mental health services, and ensure County government remains responsive, equitable, and accountable to the residents we serve,” Chair Burgis said.

District 4 Supervisor Ken Carlson takes his oath of office as the Board’s new Vice Chair for 2026.

Supervisor Carlson represents District 4, which includes the cities of Clayton, Pleasant Hill and a majority of Concord and Walnut Creek. He brings a strong background in public service and community engagement, with a focus on equity, mental health, and public safety.

“Serving as Vice Chair is an opportunity to help guide the County’s work with stability, collaboration, and a clear focus on results,” said Vice Chair Ken Carlson. “Alongside Chair Burgis and the full Board, my focus will be on delivering practical solutions that support public safety, promote mental health and well-being, and reflect the values of the diverse communities we represent.”

Chair Burgis and Vice Chair Carlson will lead the five-member Board, which oversees a $7.16 billion budget and serves 1.2 million residents across Contra Costa County.

For more information about the Board of Supervisors, visit: https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/9970/Board-of-Supervisors. For more information about Supervisor Diane Burgis, visit: https://www.contracosta.ca.gov/6437/District-3-Supervisor-Diane-Burgis. For more information about Supervisor Ken Carlson, visit: cccounty.us/Carlson.

 

City of Martinez kicks off Sesquicentennial Celebration: “Past, Present, Future, Together”

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150th Anniversary of Cityhood

By Eve Kearney, Martinez City Manager’s Office

Martinez, CA — The City of Martinez is proud to celebrate the beginning of its Sesquicentennial year, marking 150 years since the City’s incorporation on April 1, 1876. Under the theme “Past, Present, Future, Together,” the City will honor its rich history, vibrant community, and bright future ahead. The City will be celebrating its 150th Anniversary on April 1, 2026, and to mark this momentous occasion, the City will be undertaking initiatives and events throughout 2026.

The Sesquicentennial will be recognized throughout the entire 2026 calendar year with special events, community projects, and opportunities for residents to celebrate the community’s legacy and help shape its next chapter.
Milestone Events

As part of the Sesquicentennial year, the City will hold three official events to honor the 150th anniversary.

  • Early 2026 – District Community Sessions: To foster meaningful engagement and share the City’s forward-looking plans, Martinez will host Community Sessions in each district early in the year. These sessions will give residents a chance to learn about current City initiatives preparing Martinez for the future, offer input and ask questions, and connect with neighbors and City leaders.
  • April 1, 2026 – Sesquicentennial City Council Meeting: April 1st marks the official 150th anniversary of Martinez’s incorporation. To honor this historic date, the City Council will hold a commemorative meeting featuring historical reflections, special recognitions, and highlights of Sesquicentennial initiatives taking place throughout the year.
  • August 29, 2026 – Sesquicentennial Festival: To bring residents together in celebration of Martinez’s history and community spirit, the City will host a large-scale festival on August 29th featuring music, food, activities, and cultural showcases. The festival will highlight the people and stories that have shaped Martinez across generations.

Milestone Projects

As part of the Sesquicentennial, the City is launching three key initiatives designed to strengthen Martinez’s future while celebrating its identity.

  • Park System Master Plan Update: 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.
  • Utility Box Art Program: A creative beautification project that will transform utility boxes throughout the City into works of public art celebrating Martinez’s culture, history, and community.
  • 150 Trees for 150 Years: More than 150 trees have been planted across the City in advance of the Sesquicentennial year along Alhambra Avenue, Marina Vista, Arnold Drive, and other key corridors throughout Martinez. Residents will see these new trees begin to flourish as part of the Sesquicentennial year.

A Community Celebration

Residents, businesses, and community organizations are encouraged to participate in the celebratory events and key projects throughout 2026.

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

District Community Sessions 

The City is hosting district Community Sessions to kick off the year! Meet your District Representative and the Mayor and learn about key City initiatives planned or already underway.

Topics at these Sessions include:

  • Sesquicentennial Celebration year
  • City 4-Year Strategic Plan
  • Waterfront and Marina Revitalization Project
  • Park Masterplan Update

We’re bringing these conversations directly to you by hosting one session in each district of the City. No matter which date or location you attend, the topics and discussions will be the same, so you can choose the session most convenient for you and still be part of this conversation about our shared future.

January 15, 2026 5:30-7:30pm – District 4

Grace Episcopal Church, 130 Muir Station Road

Hosted by District Council Member Debbie McKillop and Mayor Zorn

January 28, 2026 6:30-8:30pm – District 2

John Muir Elementary School, 205 Vista Way

Hosted by District Council Member Greg Young and Mayor Zorn

February 12, 2026 6-8pm – District 3

Location to be confirmed

Hosted by District Council Member Satinder Malhi and Mayor Zorn

February 25, 2026 6-8pm – District 1

Alhambra High School, 150 E Street

Hosted by District Council Member Jay Howard and Mayor Zorn

Additional events and details will be shared on the City’s official channels as the celebration year unfolds, including on the City website at www.cityofmartinez.org/150.

City of Brentwood, Police Department provide update on investigations regarding death of Yolanda Ramirez

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Photo source: Yolanda Bustos Ramirez’s obituary.

Plan to release body cam, dash cam video footage of officer involved incident

City council votes to defend lawsuit from family

“Justice for Yolanda Ramirez” Facebook Page created, family issues list of demands

By Melissa Ballesteros, Executive Assistant City Manager’s Office / City Council Office

BRENTWOOD, CA – The City of Brentwood and the Brentwood Police Department are providing an update regarding the ongoing investigations into the incident regarding the officer involved death of 72-year-old Yolanda Bustos Ramirez on Oct. 2, 2025.

On Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at a legally noticed special Council meeting, Mayor Susannah Meyer reported that the City Council and the Brentwood Police Department remain fully committed to cooperating with the independent investigation being conducted by the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office. The investigation is independent, and it is essential that it be allowed to proceed thoroughly, objectively, and without interference. Out of respect for the integrity of the investigative process and for the Ramirez family, the City of Brentwood and the Brentwood Police Department will not speculate or comment on matters currently under review.

During the closed City Council session, the Brentwood City Council voted 4-0, with one council member absent, to authorize the City’s Legal Department to defend the lawsuit recently filed by the Ramirez family.

Police Chief’s Statement on Actions Taken and Cooperation with the District Attorney

Interim Police Chief Walter O’Grodnick stated, “On Thursday, October 2, 2025, I notified the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office that I formally invoked the County Law Enforcement Involved Fatal Incident Protocol. At the same time, I directed our Professional Standards Unit to initiate a separate administrative investigation focused on policy compliance and procedural review. That administrative investigation was later assigned to an independent third-party investigator to ensure independence and objectivity.

The District Attorney’s protocol team arrived the same day I initiated the protocol and were immediately provided with full access to relevant evidence, including:

  • 911 recordings
  • Body-worn camera footage
  • In-car camera footage
  • Police reports and related documentation
  • Police vehicle involved in the incident

The Brentwood Police Department has fully cooperated with the District Attorney’s Office. We have not restricted or limited the DA’s access to any information the DA has requested. I want the Ramirez family and the community to know that I am fully committed to professionalism, accountability, objectivity, fairness, and adherence to the law and constitutional rights.”

Planned Release of Footage

Consistent with the City’s commitment to transparency, accountability and due process, and given the progress of the investigations, Mayor Meyer announced that the Brentwood City Council has directed staff to release footage of the police contact with Ms. Ramirez first to the Ramirez family and then to the public, no later than February 28, 2026.

The Brentwood City Council and the Brentwood Police Department appreciate the community’s patience and respect for the investigative process during this time.

Anyone with additional information or documentation related to this incident is asked to contact the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office, Bureau of Investigations at (925) 957-2200.

“Justice for Yolanda Ramirez” Facebook Page Created, Family Issues List of Demands

A Facebook page has been created entitled, “Justice for Yolanda Ramirez”. The description reads, “This is an open space where family, loved ones, and the community can share about Yolanda Ramirez. Please share any memories, updates about Yolanda Ramirez. Please use the Hashtag: #JusticeForYolanda or #JusticeForYolandaRamirez to help spread the word.”

A post on Nov. 21, 2025, shares the demands of the family. It reads, “Our family’s nightmare began when we learned from a neighbor that our beloved, Yolanda Ramirez, was taken to the hospital in an ambulance after being in the custody of the Brentwood Police Department in the morning of Friday September 26th. The nightmare became our reality on Friday October 3rd, when she passed in the hospital, because of the tragic and unnecessary actions of the Brentwood Police Department.

“Yolanda Ramirez, 72 years old, was the heart and soul of our family. She was a warm, kind, supportive and loving wife, mother/mother-in-law, grandmother, sister/sister-in-law, Tia, and friend. She would do anything for her family and friends, especially dropping anything she was doing to spend time with her grandchildren. She took great pride in helping others, as she was an avid blood donor. On the morning of Friday September 26th, she kissed and hugged her soulmate of 54 years for the last time as she went to pick up her brother to take him to the doctor. Her life was important, and she deserved to be treated with dignity and care, as any elderly adult, while in the custody of law enforcement. She had no previous trouble with law enforcement.

“Our family has many unanswered questions about the circumstances surrounding the events that contributed to her death. We were denied a copy of the police report because we are not involved in the incident. The only information we have come from several brave and outspoken neighbors that witnessed the police encounter. We fear for others in similar situations and demand a full, independent, and transparent investigation into what happened.

“We call on the Brentwood Police Department to provide immediate and complete answers to our family and the community.

“We are demanding:

  1. Assurances that Officer PEACHMAN and the unidentified female officer have been removed from active duty pending the investigation.
  2. Officer PEACHMAN to resign immediately from the police association president post. That position is for someone that displays true leadership, abides by the mission statement of the police department, and knows how to deal with the vulnerable population of our community, which he as obviously failed.
  3. The immediate release of all relevant documents, incident reports, all video footage (including body cameras, dash cameras, and any videos obtained from neighbors), dispatch records/logs related to her time in custody.
  4. An independent investigation by an outside agency that will remain impartial, transparent, and hold those of wrongdoing accountable!
  5. Revaluation of the police policies and procedures of law enforcement interaction with nonviolent incidents pertaining to the vulnerable population in our community. It is obvious that training is needed for some law enforcement officials even if they have 10 years’ experience. Also, the department being very transparent with the public from the onset of such incidents to retain the community trust.

“Our family will not stop fighting for Justice for Yolanda. She was failed by a system that should have ‘protected and enhanced the quality of life through uncompromised dedication, professionalism, and integrity’ as stated in the mission statement of the Brentwood Police Department. We demand accountability and systemic change to ensure that no other family has to experience something similar and yet preventable. #JusticeForYolanda”

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Martinez City Council approves exclusive negotiating agreement to advance Waterfront and Marina revitalization

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Front view aerial rendering by Tucker Sadler of the proposed Martinez Waterfront and Marina Plan presented to the city council on July 16, 2025. Source: City of Martinez

Private developer proposes vision, model, master plan for collaboration

By Eve Kearney, City Manager’s Office, City of Martinez

Martinez, CA — At their December 17, 2025, Regular meeting, the Martinez City Council unanimously approved an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement (ENA) with Tucker Sadler Architects, marking an important milestone toward revitalization of the Martinez Waterfront and Marina. The agreement sets in motion a new phase of study and collaborative planning that will evaluate the project’s feasibility, refine design concepts, and lay the groundwork for decisions on the future of the Waterfront and Marina.

Revitalizing the Waterfront and Marina has been a top community priority for decades. With aging infrastructure, deteriorating facilities, limited resources, and a marina well beyond its useful life, the City has faced growing operational and financial pressures that necessitate a broader reimagining through a private-public partnership.

Tucker Sandler, a San Diego-based architectural planning, design and development firm, has decades of experience delivering private and public sector development projects in California and in other states, including waterfront projects.

Now, with the ENA approval, the City and Tucker Sadler begin a formal 24-month period to collaboratively refine a transformative vision for the waterfront, conduct environmental review, engage the community, and negotiate a potential Development Agreement.

“Tonight’s approval is an important step for unlocking the potential of our Waterfront and Marina. We are excited to refine the project vision in the coming months with input from our community,” said Mayor Brianne Zorn. “This partnership gives us a path to activate our Waterfront, rebuild the Marina, and create a regional landmark that reflects Martinez’s identity, without placing the financial burden on our residents.”

Side aerial view rendering. Source: City of Martinez

A Vision for a Reimagined Waterfront

In July 2025, Tucker Sadler presented a conceptual vision for a comprehensive revitalization of the Waterfront and Marina. After extensive public comment and Council discussion, the Council directed staff to pursue an ENA to further explore the opportunity. (See City staff report and PowerPoint presentation)

Pursuant to the ENA, the City will work exclusively with Tucker Sadler to develop a comprehensive plan to create a vibrant, accessible, sustainable, and community-serving waterfront. The project is envisioned to include a broad range of landside and waterside improvements reflecting the Martinez identity and including thoughtfully-scaled commercial elements necessary to support and sustain the long-term financial viability of the project.

During this next phase, the City and Tucker Sadler will engage the community to garner input on the project’s features and undertake detailed analyses, technical studies, and design evaluations to determine how best to bring these concepts from vision to buildable reality.

On the landside, the project envisions new recreation amenities such as sport fields, a dog park, kite area, and public art installations, along with expanded open spaces featuring plazas, pedestrian pathways, marshland restoration, and stronger connections to downtown. Hospitality and community facilities, including hotels, restaurants, a community/event center, a new Martinez Yacht Club and Sea Scouts’ facility, and an outdoor amphitheater, are also included. These project elements would complement new commercial and retail spaces and support boating, fishing, recreation, and other waterfront activities, and would be supported by upgraded infrastructure, including surface and underground parking, utilities, and lighting.

On the waterside, the plan calls for a full reconstruction of the Marina with new and upgraded boat slips, fueling stations, and improved access for both motorized and nonmotorized vessels. It also includes repairing or redesigning the aging northern breakwater and eastern seawall, as well as adding new public amenities such as launch points for nonmotorized watercraft, accessible promenades, viewing decks, open spaces along the waterfront, and an area reserved for potential future ferry service.

Rendering of the proposed Boardwalk design for the Martinez Waterfront and Marina. Source: City of Martinez

A Financially Sustainable Path Forward

The ENA also establishes that the proposed project must be privately financed and self-sustaining, with no City subsidy and no financial risk to Martinez taxpayers. Tucker Sadler will reimburse the City for all staff, legal, and consultant costs during the negotiation period.

If a future Development Agreement is approved, the project could:

  • Eliminate the City’s ongoing General Fund subsidy for Marina operations (savings of about $650,000+ per year)
  • Shift responsibility for Marina reconstruction, including dredging and seawall/breakwater replacement, to the developer
  • Generate new long-term revenue for the City through transient occupancy tax, sales tax, possessory interest tax, and lease payments

“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to secure the future of our Waterfront and Marina,” said City Manager Michael Chandler. “The ENA allows us to fully evaluate a revitalization effort that could eliminate ongoing subsidies, strengthen the City’s long-term fiscal health, and deliver an enhanced public asset the community can benefit from and enjoy for decades to come.”

Rendering of the proposed Marina design for the Martinez Waterfront. Source: City of Martinez

Next Steps: Community Engagement and Environmental Review

Under the ENA, the City and Tucker Sadler,  will manage and participate in a robust public engagement process that invites residents, businesses, waterfront users, and regional partners to provide input into the final vision. There will be multiple opportunities for community feedback as the project is designed and undergoes extensive studies and review processes.

The first round of outreach will begin in early 2026 as part of the City’s Sesquicentennial Community Sessions. These early conversations will help provide insight into the project process and initial concepts; dates and times of these sessions will be released later in 2025.

The City will also maintain ongoing information and feedback opportunities on its website at www.cityofmartinez.org/MarinaProject, ensuring the community can stay informed and participate at every stage.

Following the community engagement efforts, the project vision will be finalized and the formal environmental review processes required under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) will commence. This analysis will evaluate potential environmental impacts, explore project alternatives, and ensure the planning process is grounded in transparency, data, and regulatory compliance.

“We’re grateful for the opportunity to move forward in partnership with the City and the community,” said Greg Mueller, Design Principal and CEO of Tucker Sadler Architects. “The ENA allows us to work collaboratively on a waterfront vision that honors the area’s history while creating new opportunities for the future.”

Rendering of the proposed Amphitheatre design for the Martinez Waterfront and Marina. Source: City of Martinez

History of the Martinez Marina

Constructed in the 1960s, the Marina has exceeded its useful life, with facilities closing due to safety concerns and environmental factors, such as sea level rise causing frequent flooding. Viewed as a unique and valuable community asset, the City Council has expressed a commitment to take measures to ensure it is safe and create a vibrant place for recreation and commerce benefiting residents and visitors alike.

The City assumed direct management of the Marina in August 2024 after the previous operator’s contract ended, revealing the need for a comprehensive rebuild rather than costly repairs. Maintaining the Marina has been a financial challenge for the City, which has been subsidizing the Marina for years, a scenario that is no longer sustainable. The Marina threatens to become a financial drain on the City’s general fund if a different course of action is not pursued.

“Our City’s Marina is a vital community asset that has faced decades of infrastructure deterioration and increasing financial strain on the City,” said Mayor Brianne Zorn. “An investment in Martinez by a private developer may offer a transformational opportunity to fund a comprehensive plan for our Marina and Waterfront.”

Additional background and the full scope of the ENA are detailed in the Staff Report included with the December 17, 2025 Regular City Council Meeting agenda. The complete ENA document is also available for public review as part of the meeting materials.

Resources:
Project Webpage – http://www.cityofmartinez.org/MarinaProject

Agenda – https://granicus_production_attachments.s3.amazonaws.com/martinez/63ac58a09b7b4c207dfe66160741c6d90.pdf

Staff Report –
https://www.cityofmartinez.org/home/showdocument?id=5410&t=639016149231794854

Council Resolution –
https://www.cityofmartinez.org/home/showdocument?id=5414&t=639016460677029956

Exclusive Negotiating Agreement –https://www.cityofmartinez.org/home/showdocument?id=5412&t=639016149625840171

Contra Costa preparing for Medi-Cal coverage loss, funding reductions

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By Contra Costa Health

Contra Costa County must prepare for significant reductions in Medi-Cal coverage and hundreds of millions of dollars in long-term funding loss as a result of recent federal and state policy changes, county officials said Tuesday.

New federal requirements under H.R. 1, the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” combined with state Medi-Cal eligibility and reimbursement changes, will make it harder for many residents to enroll in or keep healthcare coverage. While final details are still emerging, county estimates indicate that as many as 93,000 Contra Costa residents could be affected by 2029.

At the same time, Contra Costa Health (CCH) projects more than $300 million in cumulative state and federal funding reductions through 2029, driven by Medi-Cal disenrollment and cuts to supplemental funding that public hospitals rely upon. These impacts are expected to grow year over year and reflect a broader trend affecting counties and public health systems across California.

“These changes mean fewer people covered and fewer dollars coming into the system at the same time,” said Candace Andersen, Chair of the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors. “Our responsibility is to face that reality head-on, plan carefully, and ensure the county continues to provide essential care for residents who have nowhere else to turn.”

During a presentation to the Board on Tuesday, leaders of CCH and the county’s Employment & Human Services Department (EHSD) emphasized that the projected impacts are a result of external policy decisions, not local performance, and that significant uncertainty remains around timelines, enforcement and the response from California.

Federal guidance on several provisions of H.R. 1 has not yet been issued, and California’s approach to mitigating coverage losses is still evolving.

The presentation outlined how specific provisions of H.R. 1 and recent state Medi-Cal policy changes are expected to reduce enrollment, increase administrative barriers to coverage, and lower reimbursement to safety-net providers. It also reviewed projected enrollment losses, funding impacts to CCH and Contra Costa Health Plan, and the anticipated timing of changes, along with areas of ongoing uncertainty.

The Board directed CCH to return in early 2026 with a proposal to update and strengthen the county’s existing supports for people who are not eligible for Medi-Cal and have no other healthcare options.

Contra Costa County will share additional updates as federal and state guidance becomes available and planning continues.