Contra Costa Herald

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

Hundreds of Bay Area rental housing providers, tenant advocates to protest, testify in opposition to Air Board’s gas appliance ban

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Photos: BAAQMD

To raise concerns during Wednesday meeting that the regulation is bad policy that will increase housing costs, disrupt renters, and push housing providers to sell properties

BAAQMD’s actions part of effort to convert California homes to electric powered heat pumps for water heaters and HVAC systems

Contra Costa Supervisors Carlson, Gioia serve on BAAQMD Board

By Keegan Coleman, Actum

SAN FRANCISCO – Hundreds of rental housing providers, property owners and representatives from local rental housing affiliates across the nine counties that fall under the Bay Area Air Quality Management District’s (BAAQMD) jurisdiction – including the counties of Contra Costa, Alameda, Marin, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Solano and Sonoma – will gather at the BAAQMD Board of Directors meeting on Wednesday, October 7, to testify in opposition to the district’s gas appliance ban and make clear that the regulation is bad housing policy.

Background & Timeline

The Air District Board of Directors is considering changes to Regulation 9, Rules 4 and 6 which are intended to reduce emissions of nitrogen oxides from residential and commercial furnaces and water heaters in buildings in the Bay Area.

According to the Water Heater Rule Draft Amendments Overview, “The amendments are designed to make compliance with the rule more affordable by providing exemptions for low-income property owners and addressing situations where installing a compliant water heater would be particularly expensive. The draft amendments and supporting material can be found at: baaqmd.gov/building-appliances.”

According to the District’s Notice of Public Hearing issued on Friday, Oct. 2nd, “On March 15, 2023, the Air District adopted amendments to Rule 9-4: Nitrogen Oxides from Fan Type Residential Central Furnaces and Rule 9-6: Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) Emissions from Natural Gas Fired Boilers and Water Heaters that govern point of sale emission standards for small, typically residential and commercial, water and space heating systems.

The Board then conducted a public hearing on June 21, 2023, in which they directed staff to submit the current versions of Rule 9-4 and Rule 9-6 to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA and the California Air Resources Board for inclusion in the State Implementation Plan (SIP).

At their meeting on Nov. 4, 2026, the Air District Board of Directors will consider changes to Rule 9-6 for water heaters. The changes being considered would, if approved, provide for some exemptions to the zero-nitrogen oxides standard and would extend the compliance date. The meeting will begin at 9:00 a.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard and is also accessible via Zoom on the Air District’s website.

According to the Appliance Rules Concept Paper Overview, “To make the transition fair and practical, the Air District is working on 2026 flexibility amendments that could:

  • Allow continued sales of small (≤35-gallon) gas water heaters for a limited time.
  • Provide exemptions for low-income homeowners and some small business types.
  • Permit contractors to purchase and install temporary “loaner” water heaters for emergencies
  • Grant extra time or exemptions for homes needing major electrical upgrades, water heater relocation, or hydronic systems”

According to the District’s Fact Sheet on the proposed amendments, “The amended rules will affect Bay Area households that use natural gas appliances — roughly 2/3 of all households currently. The rule amendments will apply only to new appliances, and do not mandate retrofitting of existing appliances and the current timeline is as follows:

  • 2027* – only zero NOx small tank type 75k BTU/hr water heaters can be sold or installed in the Bay Area.
  • 2029 – only zero NOx furnaces less than 175k BTU/hr can be sold or installed in the Bay Area.
  • 2031 – only zero NOx large commercial water heaters, tank type 75k to 2M BTU/hr and tankless water heaters, typically large commercial and multifamily water heaters can be sold or installed in the Bay Area.

*The Board of Directors will consider flexibility amendments in 2026 and potentially adjust the timeline with a later compliance deadline.”

According to the Rule Development History;

  • In December of 2024, Air District staff presented an informational update on the implementation readiness of the zero NOx requirements for residential water heaters (Rule 9-6) to the Air District Board of Directors.
  • In April of 2025, Air District staff presented to the Stationary Source Committee to share proposed next steps and potential flexibilities and amendments to Rule 9-6 (2027 compliance date) based on the IWG’s findings. The second phase of the IWG 2.0 will commence in late-2025 and will focus on furnaces Rule 9-4 (2029 compliance date).

So, the Air Board will consider the proposed amendments to Rule 9-4 at a later date.

Public Comments for Oct. 7th Meeting

During general public comments speakers will urge the Board to reconsider the regulation, warning that the mandate would impose high new costs on rental housing communities, create logistical and construction challenges for older and space-constrained properties, disrupt renters, and further strain a region already facing one of the nation’s most severe housing affordability crises. If Item 16 is pulled from the Consent Calendar, there will be another opportunity for public comments on the Stationary Source Committee’s report (see the Committee’s Item 5 on page 176 of the Board meeting agenda, entitled, State and Regional Efforts to Advance the Equitable Transition to Clean Appliances).

Representatives from organizations including Better Housing Policies, Business and Housing Network, Santa Clara Association of Realtors, San Mateo County Association of Realtors, East Bay Rental Housing Association, Berkeley Property Owners Association, California Rental Housing Association, South County Business Alliance, Silicon Valley Business Alliance, and Small Property Owners of San Francisco Institute will attend the meeting to emphasize to the Board that while clean-air goals are important, this regulation takes the wrong approach by shifting costly infrastructure burdens onto housing providers and, ultimately, renters.

Contra Costa County Supervisors Ken Carlson and John Gioia who serve as Chair and Vice Chair of the BAAQMD Stationary Source Committee speak during its meeting on Sept. 9, 2026. Video screenshots.

Stationary Source Committee Meeting Details

During the District’s Stationary Source Committee meeting on September 9 2026, Chaired by Contra Costa County District 4 Supervisor Ken Carlson, and whose Vice Chair is Contra Costa County District 1 Supervisor John Gioia, “Richard Chien, Planning and Climate Protection Manager, gave the staff presentation entitled, State and Regional Efforts to Advance the Equitable Transition to Clean Appliances, including: abbreviations; outline; major players in the clean appliance transition; spotlight on California Heat Pump Partnership; spotlight on Bay Area Regional Energy Network (BayREN) – heat pump water heater (HPWH) for hard-to-reach households, contractor readiness, building department support; spotlight on Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E); spotlight on load serving entities – funding support, permitting support; Senate Bill (SB) 222 – The Heat Pump Access Act, entitled, “Residential heat pump water heater or heat pump HVAC systems” (which Newsom signed into law on Sept. 28th); spotlight on Sprint to 9-6 – communications and outreach; spotlight on equitable building decarbonization; and Air District outreach and education.

“Jane Elias, Manager of Energy Programs with Metropolitan Transportation Commission/Association of Bay Area Governments, and Nik Kaestner, Senior Building Decarbonization Coordinator with the San Francisco Environment Department, provided additional context after the presentation.”

Before the presentation, the District’s Executive Officer and Air Pollution Control Officer Philip Fine explained to the committee members that the agenda item wasn’t Rule 9-4 or 9-6 which the Board will consider in November.

Chien shared about the California Heat Pump (Public-Private) Partnership Blueprint which is pushing to increase the number of housing units that install heat pumps throughout the state. “The 2025 California Energy Code (effective Jan 1, 2026) encourages heat pumps for both space and water heating and supports all‑electric new construction. California has committed to a clean energy future for all through groundbreaking building decarbonization efforts, including Governor Newsom’s goal to install 6 million heat pumps throughout the state by 2030.”

“Unlike traditional fossil gas systems, heat pumps use electricity to transfer heat rather than generate it, making them highly efficient while reducing greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution,” the Blueprint claims.

According to the HVAC Laboratory, “At its core, a heat pump is an electrically powered appliance that moves heat between the indoors and outdoors. Unlike a furnace that burns fuel or a standard electric heater that converts electricity directly into warmth, a heat pump captures existing heat from the air—or even the ground—and relocates it. In heating mode, the outdoor unit extracts thermal energy from the outside air and brings it inside; even when temperatures drop into the 40s or 30s, there’s enough ambient heat to collect. Come summer, the cycle flips. The system acts just like a central air conditioner, pulling heat from your living spaces and expelling it outdoors.”

According to ElectrifyCalc, “California homeowners can expect to pay $5,500–$12,000 installed for a 2–3 ton air-source heat pump in 2026 — and with the Section 25C federal tax credit (30%, up to $2,000), HEEHRA (High-Efficiency Electric Home Rebate Act) rebates up to $8,000, and California’s own TECH Clean CA program offering $1,000–$4,000, the net cost after stacking incentives can drop below $2,000 for income-qualified households.”

According to EnergyStar.gov, a heat pump water heater “takes the heat from surrounding air and transfers it to water in an enclosed tank.”

Chien also spoke about BayREN, the Bay Area Regional Energy Network, which is “a coalition of the Bay Area’s nine counties…partnering to promote resource efficiency at the regional level, focusing on energy, water and greenhouse gas reduction.” They are working to provide resources, such as “an express permitting form template and standardized information materials for city websites.”

He also spoke about what PG&E is doing to help streamline the installation of heat pumps including zero-interest loans. Finally, Chien spoke on the Equitable Decarbonization Program overseen by the California Energy Commission which includes the Initial Community Focus Areas of Western and Eastern Contra Costa and others in the Bay Area.

He, the other presenters and District staff then answered questions of the committee members followed by public comments on the item.

No action was taken on the information item. (See video of the committee meeting)

WHAT: BAAQMD Board of Directors Meeting

WHEN: Wednesday, October 7, 2026  10:00 a.m.

WHERE: Bay Area Air Quality Management District, 375 Beale Street, Suite 600, San Francisco, CA 94105

WHO: Noni Richen, Board President, Small Property Owners of San Francisco Institute

Derek Barnes, CEO, East Bay Rental Housing Association

Krista Gulbransen, Executive Director, Berkeley Property Owners Association

Public Comment Deadline Nov. 1st

The District is seeking public comments on the Proposed Rule Language and Preliminary Staff Report ahead of the Board of Directors meeting on November 4th. The public comment period for the proposed amendment to Rule 9-6 will close on November 1st at 6 PM. Online comments must be submitted through the Air District’s public comment tool to be considered. Under Air District policy, we cannot consider comments on regulations that are submitted by email. Written comments can also be submitted by mail to Rule Development, Bay Area Air Quality Management District, 375 Beale Street, Suite 600, San Francisco, CA 94105. Verbal comments are welcome up to the day of and during the Public Hearing.

For more information about the Board meeting see Agenda Packet and about the BAAQMD visit www.baaqmd.gov.

Clayton to hold second of two Town Hall Meetings Oct. 7

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Source: City of Clayton

To learn about City finances, Landscape and Maintenance District

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

By City of Clayton

The City of Clayton invites residents to “Come participate in our next Town Hall! This Wednesday, Oct. 7, 2026, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Hoyer Hall, come learn more about the City. Join City leaders for an open and informative Town Hall Meeting to learn more about the future of our community.”

The City’s Financial Picture: An update on City revenues, expenses, financial challenges, and long-term fiscal sustainability.

The Landscape Maintenance District: Learn about LMD funding, the services it supports, and what renewal means for Clayton’s landscaping, trails, open space, weed abatement, and community appearance.

Measure M –  1% Local Sales Tax Measure

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?”

Measure N – Renewal of the Landscape and Maintenance District

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.”

Hoyer Hall is located at 6125 Clayton Road.

More details on the City’s website at Calendar • Town Hall.

“MELT ICE” Act of 2026 authored by Contra Costa’s Ávila Farías signed by governor

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Prevents former ICE agents with history of misconduct from becoming law enforcement officers in California

Claims participating in ICE operations during Trump’s 2nd term “demonstrates an immorality”

Could be challenged in court, deemed unconstitutional

By Allen D. Payton

On Tuesday, Sept. 29, 2026, Governor Gavin Newsom signed into law AB 1627, the Misconduct Ends Law-enforcement Trust Act of 2026 (MELT ICE) by Assemblywoman Anamarie Ávila Farías (D-Martinez), which disqualifies officers employed by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from being employed as a peace officer in California, if they “engaged in serious misconduct that would have resulted in their certification being revoked…if employed as a peace officer in this state.”

The Assemblywoman represents portions of Contra Costa County in the State Assembly’s 15th District.

While the law makes clear that existing police hiring rules covering serious misconduct by former law enforcement officers now, also apply to officers involved in immigration enforcement, it applies even if the ICE officer was not found guilty of misconduct in their current or previous position.

However, the soon to be new law could be challenged in court because of possible violation of federal labor law and deemed unconstitutional in part due to the “immorality” clause. That clause reads, “Participating in the operations of United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement on or after January 20, 2025, demonstrates an immorality that California cannot afford to have in its ranks of peace officer.”

On August 30th, the bill passed the state Senate on 29 to 10 party-line vote, and the Assembly by 57 to 16 also on a party-line vote. It was enrolled and presented to the Governor on Sept. 9th at 1 p.m.

Part of Package of Federal Immigration Enforcement Related Bills Signed by Governor

According to a press release from the governor’s office that day, “Governor Newsom signed 21 bills earlier today cementing California’s longstanding efforts to support immigrant communities and reflecting on the state’s response to an intensified federal immigration enforcement environment.”

“Newsom…signed a package of bills related to federal immigration enforcement in California to expand oversight of federal immigration enforcement in California.

“This action builds on years of work by Governor Newsom and the Legislature to support (illegal) immigrant families, protect communities and the economy from reckless immigration actions, strengthen transparency and oversight of detention facilities, and ensure that state resources are focused on public safety and the needs of Californians.

The governor’s office claims the package of bills, “Prohibits ICE officers who have committed serious misconduct on the job from becoming peace officers or public employees in California.”

Included in the bills was AB 1627 by Ávila Farías, described as “Public employment: disqualifications”, and known as the MELT ICE Act.

Legislative Counsel’s Digest of AB 1627

According to the Legislative Counsel’s Digest, “Existing (state) law specifies circumstances that disqualify a person from holding office or being employed as a peace officer, including, among other things, any person previously employed in law enforcement in any state or United States territory or by the federal government whose name is listed in any of specified indexes whose certification as a law enforcement officer in that jurisdiction was revoked for misconduct or who, while employed as a law enforcement officer, engaged in serious misconduct that would have resulted in their certification being revoked by the commission if employed as a peace officer in this state.

“This bill would specify that, for purposes of the disqualification circumstances described above, the terms ‘employed in law enforcement’ and ‘law enforcement officer’ include a law enforcement officer employed in any state or United States territory or by the federal government who engages in immigration enforcement, as provided.”

Bill Text Claims Participating in ICE Operations During Trump’s Second Term “Demonstrates an Immorality”

According to the Bill Text in, “SECTION 1. The Legislature finds and declares all of the following:

“(a) Beginning in 2025, United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers have terrorized California residents, United States citizens and noncitizens alike, through untargeted arrests and brutality based on nothing more than a person’s racial appearance, language spoken, means of earning a living, or exercise of First Amendment-protected expression.

“(b) Beginning in 2025, the United States Department of Homeland Security has recruited peace officers to United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement with the promise of being unrestrained in the manner in which officers engage with civilians or by the laws of the State of California.

“(c) Participating in the operations of United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement on or after January 20, 2025, demonstrates an immorality that California cannot afford to have in its ranks of peace officers whose duties include interacting with the public.”

Further according to the Bill Text, “…except as provided in subparagraph (B), any person previously employed as a sworn law enforcement officer or individual contractor, and personally engaged in immigration enforcement,” is “disqualified from holding office as a peace officer or being employed as a peace officer of the state, county, city, city and county, or other political subdivision, whether with or without compensation, and is disqualified from any office or employment by the state, county, city, city and county, or other political subdivision, whether with or without compensation, which confers upon the holder or employee the powers and duties of a peace officer.”

Subparagraph B (ii) reads, “‘Immigration enforcement’ includes any and all efforts to investigate, enforce, or assist in the investigation or enforcement of any federal civil immigration law, and also includes any and all efforts to investigate, enforce, or assist in the investigation or enforcement of any federal criminal immigration law that penalizes a person’s presence in, entry, or reentry to, or employment in, the United States.”

However, the bill “does not prohibit or restrict any governmental entity or official from sending to, or receiving from, federal immigration authorities information regarding the citizenship or immigration status, lawful or unlawful, of an individual, or from requesting from federal immigration authorities immigration status information, lawful or unlawful, of any individual, or from maintaining or exchanging that information with any other federal, state, or local governmental entity.” That means existing law enforcement officers can cooperate with ICE within limits of California’s sanctuary state laws.

Assemblywoman Ávila Farías speaks about her bill, AB1627 on the Assembly Floor On May 27, 2026. Video screenshot source: CalMatters

Ávila Farías Comments About Bill, Signing by Governor

A press release issued earlier this year, after the State Assembly passed her bill, reads, “On the Assembly Floor, Assemblymember Ávila Farías emphasized that ICE enforcement has created fear across California—impacting both citizens and immigrants alike—and legislation is needed to proactively safeguard our communities and critical spaces.”

She is further quoted in a FOX11 Los Angeles report as saying in a statement, “California’s peace officers…must be guardians of constitutional rights, not participants in their erosion.” and “argued that participating in ICE operations during this period ‘demonstrates an immorality that California cannot afford to have in its ranks.’”

In her brief speech on the Assembly Floor on May 27th, Avila Farias said, “Communities are safer when we are policed by people who are committed to protecting the public rather than kidnapping them.”

During a presentation before the Assembly Standing Committee on Public Safety in April, she said, “Frankly, I don’t want my kids or anyone else’s counting on people who flaunt the rule of the law.” Ávila Farías also claimed, “this bill, does not have any legal issues, and challenges, because we’re simply doing a modest expansion of existing law in a way to protect our community members and holding the highest regard of what our law enforcement professionals. It also is not honing into the individuals that are doing their jobs to the letter of the law. This is protecting vulnerable community populations…”

She repeated her remarks before the state Senate Standing Committee on Public Safety in June saying, “AB 1627 ensures that immigration enforcement personnel are disqualified from becoming a peace officer in California if they have committed misconduct in their prior roles. This bill is about restoring public trust and holding federal law enforcement to the same standards as any other peace officer in California.”

About the governor signing her bill Ávila Farías said, “Our kids deserve role models in uniform, not individuals tied to fear and intimidation. AB 1627 is about accountability, integrity, and reducing harm before it happens. With the signing of the MELT ICE Act of 2026, California sends a clear message: Federal agents who have disregarded constitutional rights are not to be entrusted with peace enforcement roles in our state. Thank you, Governor Newsom, for your commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting our communities.”

Ávila Farías’ office issued a press release about the bill’s signing.

“Today, Governor Gavin Newsom signed my bill to prevent former ICE employees with documented histories of misconduct from becoming peace officers in California.

“AB 1627, the Misconduct Ends Law-Enforcement Trust Act of 2026, started with people in my community speaking up. One year ago, at a No Kings Rally in Concord, our community came together and spoke out about the fear many immigrant families were experiencing. That community activism helped inspire this legislation, and I am proud that their voices helped lead to meaningful change.

“AB 1627 was not written overnight. It was the result of many conversations, a lot of listening, and working with people who care deeply about public safety and accountability.

“At the heart of this bill is a simple principle: if someone has a documented history of misconduct, they should not be able to leave one agency and simply put on another uniform without accountability.

“I am honored and humbled to have played a part in creating one more barrier to prevent individuals who have abused their authority from becoming peace officers in California. This is about protecting public trust and making sure the people entrusted with a badge are held to a high standard.

“I want to thank Governor Newsom, my legislative colleagues, the community partners who stood with me, and the law-enforcement professionals who worked with us throughout this process. “This is what people power looks like. A community raised its voice, we listened, we worked together, and we turned that vision into law.

“AB 1627 takes effect January 1, 2027.”

Opposed by Statewide Police Organization

According to a report on MSN.com, “The Peace Officers Research Association of California (PORAC) has voiced opposition to the bill. ‘This bill is unnecessary, duplicative and it jeopardizes qualified immunity for California employees,’ stated David Mastagni on behalf of PORAC.

The report further claims, “Critics argue the measure represents ‘guilty by association’ and could worsen existing staffing shortages in California’s police departments and schools. According to data from PORAC, law enforcement agencies throughout California have lost over 3,300 sworn officers since 2020, with an average of 10% of policing roles remaining unfilled.”

Could Be Challenged in Court, Deemed Unconstitutional

However, the new law could be ruled unconstitutional if challenged in court as questions have arisen whether the state can legally enforce a lifetime ban on a specific class of former federal employees without violating federal labor protections or constitutional due process.

According to a report by iHeart Radio in February, “Legal experts question whether California can legally enforce a lifetime ban on a specific class of federal employees without violating federal labor protections or constitutional due process rights.”

Inclusion of the “immorality” clause could give further basis for a court challenge.

New Contra Costa County District 3 Youth Center to be built in Brentwood

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Rendering of the planned District 3 Youth Center in Brentwood. Source: CCCounty

A Space to Call Their Own: Investing in the Future of Our Youth Ages 12-18 in Brentwood, Oakley, Antioch, Bethel Island, Knightsen, Byron and Discovery Bay

For Creative Expression, Community & Connection, Holistic Wellness

By Diane Burgis, District 3 Supervisor, Contra Costa County

Across all neighborhoods in District 3, our youth have needed a space built specifically around their lived experiences, creative interests, and physical and mental health needs.

The project behind this long-held vision is officially underway with the support of Measure X funding. At the corner of Lone Tree Way and Windy Springs Lane in Brentwood, Contra Costa County is developing the District 3 Youth Center on a 4.68-acre County-owned parcel planned to also hold Fire Station 90.

This planned single-story, 15,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art flagship campus designed entirely for local youth ages 12 to 18 who live in the cities of Antioch, Brentwood and Oakley, and the unincorporated areas of Bethel Island, Byron, Discovery Bay and Knightsen and is scheduled to open in 2029. More than a standard municipal facility, the center’s preliminary blueprint reflects a home-like, collaborative atmosphere:

  • Creative Expression: Architectural plans feature a full music and media recording studio, instructional classrooms, and quiet study nooks designed for academic support and creative exploration.
  • Community & Connection: A central living room and lobby welcome visitors, anchored by multipurpose activity rooms, a community teaching kitchen, and open outdoor recreation areas.
  • Holistic Wellness: Recognizing the unique pressures facing teens today, the facility includes dedicated wellness zones and private consultation rooms for youth therapy, mental health guidance, and peer support.

Quick Facts

  • Estimated Construction Budget: $23,000,000
  • Anticipated Construction Start: Winter 2027
  • Estimated Project Completion: Summer 2029

As the Youth Center and Fire Station 90 are planned to be constructed by the same Design-Build team on the same parcel, the planning approval process of the Fire Station will ultimately affect the construction time for the Youth Center. It is currently on track for an opening in late Summer 2029.

Second of Three Youth Centers

The District 3 Youth Center is the second of three Youth Centers planned in the County. The District 4 Youth Center opened in 2025 at 2241 Galaxy Court in Concord. The District 5 Youth Center will be located in a new building to be constructed on the County-owned Los Medanos (former hospital) site in Pittsburg, which is currently home to a County-operated health clinic off Loveridge Road.

New Project Dashboard

The County has launched a new project dashboard where you can bring yourself up to speed on all of the current happenings at the site.

Follow the dashboard and messaging for exciting project updates and news for the District 3 Youth Center:  www.contracosta.ca.gov/10697/District-3-Youth-Center.

Programming for the District 3 Youth Center falls under the Employment and Human Services Department, Workforce Development Board. More information on the Youth Centers Initiative and interim services is available at their website: Youth Centers Initiative | Workforce Development Board of Contra Costa County

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

City of Walnut Creek Below Market Rate home ownership opportunities for very-low and low-income first-time homebuyers*

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3- to 4-bedroom 2,000+ s.f. single family residences.  Sale price $262,750 to $377,00 with up to $70,000 in additional homebuyer assistance financial subsidies

By Walter Zhovreboff, Administrative Director, Bay Area Affordable Home Ownership Alliance

The City of Walnut Creek is providing a very rare and highly beneficial opportunity for very low to low income first time homebuyers to secure home ownership of newly constructed three and four-bedroom single family homes.  The price for these homes will range from $262,750 to $377,000.  These newly constructed large two-level homes are part of the City of Walnut Creek’s Below Market Rate (BMR) home ownership program.  The same market-rate residences in the premier communities are for sale at prices ranging from $1,100,000 to $1,300,000

State and City ordinances enable developers building new homes in Walnut Creek to secure advantageous density bonuses by designating a percentage of their newly built inventory for very low to moderate income households.  Eligibility for these low-income BMR homes is restricted to first-time homebuyer households with a minimum household size of three to four persons.  Furthermore, the household’s combined gross income may not exceed the maximum thresholds outlined in the schedule below.

Household size 3 4 5 6 7 8
Maximum income allowance $122,200 $135,750 $146,650 $157,500 $168,350 $179,200

*To qualify as a first-time homebuyer, no household member may have owned or held an ownership interest in a residential property within the past three years.

The City of Walnut Creeks Below Market Rate homebuyer program is administered by the Bay Area Affordable Homeownership Alliance (BAAHA), a 501c3 non-profit organization.  BAAHA and the City are also partnering with the Richmond Community Housing Development Corporation (CHDC) to help provide access to essential first-time homebuyer education and counseling.  Furthermore, this collaboration, alongside support from Mechanics Bank, provides access for up to $70,000 in additional down payment assistance subsidies for qualifying buyers.   One of the loan subsidies provides up to $32,800 which is forgiven after five years of ownership.

To review the eligibility criteria, application process, and submission requirements for the currently available $262,750 four-bedroom very low-income home, please visit the BAAHA Abigail Place website at: https://myhomegateway.org/walnut-creek-bmr—abigail-place.html.  Households interested in purchasing the Walnut Creek BMR will be required to submit an application to BAAHA to participate in a lottery. The two remaining affordable Below Market Rate (BMR) units are scheduled to be released to the market shortly.

The City of Walnut Creek, BAAHA, and CHCD invite interested households to attend a virtual BMR program informational workshop scheduled for 6:00PM on October 21, 2026.  Topics covered at the workshop will focus on: BMR program purchase eligibility guidelines and requirements; gaining access to BMR Programs; required HUD education and valuable homebuyer counseling services; next steps households should take to apply to an upcoming BMR lottery. To get additional information and make a reservation for the virtual workshop please visit BAAHA’s website at https://myhomegateway.org/wc-bmrworkshop.html

California’s top land use attorneys agree: Prop 45 would speed data center construction

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3

No on 45 campaign responds to Yes campaign’s claims

By No on 45

SACRAMENTO – In response to the Yes on 45 campaign’s recent press release claiming a No on 45 ad spreads “blatant lies” about data centers, the No on 45 campaign issued the following:

In a column in the legal publication The Daily Journal, two of the state’s leading land use attorneys today confirmed that Proposition 45 will fast track the construction of controversial data centers in California. Proposition 45 is the California Chamber of Commerce’s 41-page ballot initiative that would roll back state environmental protections and weaken the state’s defense against President Trump’s attack on state clean air, water, and public health laws.

Richard Frank, Senior Fellow at the California Environmental Law & Policy Center at the UC Davis School of Law, and Matthew McKerley, a land use attorney specializing in the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), note “as they did for other projects, the proponents could have expressly excluded data centers in the text of the initiative. They didn’t.”

“The drafters of Prop. 45 explicitly excluded a long list of controversial projects. The measure expressly carves out high-speed rail, the Delta Conveyance Project, nuclear generation, jails, immigration detention facilities, prisons and oil and gas facilities. Data centers are conspicuously absent from this list. Under bedrock principles of statutory interpretation, a California court will read that silence not as an oversight, but rather as deliberate intent to include data centers in Prop. 45’s coverage. As they did for other projects, the proponents could have expressly excluded data centers in the text of the initiative. They didn’t.

“Tellingly, while publicly proclaiming that Prop. 45 has nothing to do with data centers, the Yes Campaign has quietly taken in $2 million from three companies that are actively building them. Prologis, a builder of two San Jose data center campuses, has given $250,000. California Resources Corporation, which is co-developing a 275 MW data center on its Elk Hills oil field, routed $500,000 into a Chamber-controlled committee four days after the measure cleared for circulation, and contributed another $500,000 directly to support Prop. 45 just two weeks ago. And PG&E has given $750,000, a $500,000 direct contribution and $250,000 to the Chamber-controlled committee, while collaborating with a Canadian mega developer to incorporate data centers into three San Jose housing developments.

“Meanwhile, existing environmental law is protecting communities from data centers’ most significant impacts,” they wrote.

The full article can be found here: https://www.dailyjournal.com/articles/394431-prop-45-will-speed-data-center-construction

Learn more at www.noprop45ca.com.

See videos about Prop 45 by the League of Women Voters of Marin and Sonoma Counties and about CEQA by the Association of Corporate Counsel, San Diego.

Brentwood residents speak out over planned closure of pickleball courts

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Photo of players from Save Creekside Park Pickleball Courts effort.

Just opened in 2024; Club members ask residents to sign petition

By Creekside Pickleball Club

Brentwood residents are asking the City Council to reconsider its decision to dismantle the pickleball courts at Creekside Park, saying the courts serve a much larger community than the 160 members of the Brentwood Creekside Pickleball Club who regularly use them. The courts are located on the south side of the park near Cheshire Drive and Arlington Way near the Marsh Creek Trail.

The Creekside courts are also used by non-member players, families and new players learning the sport. Club members say they regularly welcome newcomers and help teach pickleball etiquette and the rules of the game, creating an inclusive recreational environment for players of different ages and skill levels.

The four Creekside Park Pickleball Courts under construction in Feb. 2024. Photo: City of Brentwood

Background

During their Monday, Sept. 21st special meeting, the Brentwood City Council, under Item. E.1. on the agenda, received an Annual Update on Pickleball Operations at Creekside Park from City staff, who were given direction on Future Pickleball Court Development including if they should continue preliminary planning and conceptual design for a six-court pickleball facility at 2251 Elkins Way, in the Sunset Park Athletic Complex, including the preferred development option and potential funding approach, and regarding the long-term use of the existing Creekside Park pickleball courts.

The City has been dealing with the Creekside Pickleball Courts since 2020. According to the staff report, “The Creekside Park pickleball courts were completed in August 2024” after plans were drawn up, a contractor was hired and the City announced the construction of the four courts in a Feb. 2nd Facebook post and in the monthly newsletter.

Then, “The City Council took action on March 25, 2025, to reduce operational impacts in response to community complaints regarding noise and evening activity. The Council modified the hours of operation to 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and directed staff to physically lock and unlock the courts each day to ensure compliance with posted hours and discourage unauthorized use. Council also directed staff to begin exploring potential locations for future pickleball courts situated outside residential neighborhoods.”

Yet, there were 21 calls for service to the Brentwood Police Department between July 1, 2025 and June 14, 2026, including playing after hours, noise complaints, jumping the fence and trespassing. During the Sept. 21st meeting, City staff proposed temporary courts in the parking lot at the Sunset Complex parking lot.

The Council then voted 5-0 to allocate $1.7 million for the future courts at Sunset, plus, temporary courts there, to close the Creekside Courts upon striping the lot on Sunset, and review options for the use of the facility at Creekside, such as restoring basketball courts or another option that won’t negatively impact neighbors. (See 3:00:15 mark of meeting video)

Location in red outline of the six new pickleball courts planned for the Sunset Park Athletic Complex on Elkins Way. Source: City of Brentwood

For some residents, the courts have become an important source of community and belonging.

“When I moved to Brentwood, I had a hard time finding my friend group. I actually considered moving back to Danville because I didn’t feel connected. Then I found the pickleball community at Creekside. It gave me a place to meet people, make friends, and feel like I belonged in my community,” said Corrado Fontana, Brentwood resident and Creekside Pickleball Club Member.

Community members are also questioning the decision from a taxpayer and planning perspective. City records identify the Creekside Park Pickleball Courts as a City capital improvement project, with the project bid process occurring in 2023. Residents estimate approximately $408,000 was invested in the facility and are asking how much additional taxpayer money would be required to dismantle it.

“We are not asking the City to ignore neighbors’ concerns. We are asking the City to find a responsible solution that considers everyone, the nearby residents, the pickleball community, and all Brentwood taxpayers,” said Kelly Reddell, Brentwood resident and Creekside Pickleball Member.

Residents have suggested exploring solutions such as noise mitigation, restricted hours, barriers, landscaping, and court or equipment modifications rather than simply closing the courts.

Residents also have questions about references made during the City Council discussion to police reports related to the courts. Following the meeting, members of the pickleball community requested the reports referenced in the discussion and said they were unable to locate responsive reports on file. The community is asking the City to clearly identify the documented complaints and incidents being considered in the decision.

Proposed design of the six new Sunset Park Pickleball Courts. Source: City of Brentwood

Residents are also questioning the City’s communication surrounding the Council meeting. The meeting was held on a different night than the City’s regularly scheduled second and fourth Tuesday meetings, making it difficult for many members of the pickleball community to attend. Residents say that when a decision directly affects a large community group, consistent scheduling, clear communication, and reasonable opportunity for public participation should be a priority.

“This is bigger than pickleball. It is about community, recreation, responsible use of taxpayer dollars, and making sure residents have a meaningful voice before a public facility is removed. The proposed alternative also raises serious safety concerns. The area being suggested is not designed or prepared for the active movement and equipment. Before moving people to a space that may not be equipped to safely accommodate this activity, the City should come see the current courts, understand how they are being used, and work with the community on a responsible solution,” said Michael Huarte, Brentwood resident and Creekside Pickleball Club Member.

“I have two invitations for our City Council members. First, come out to Creekside, meet the people who use this space, and see firsthand the community that has grown around it. You’ll see that this is about far more than pickleball. It’s about connection, health, families, friendship, and belonging. Second, allow us to help find a compromise that balances the benefits of the pickleball courts with the concerns of the neighbors.  We have sought and continue to seek a positive and productive relationship with the city. Let’s work together to find a better way forward than the immediate and permanent closure of a nearly new $400,000 facility,” said Aaron Hill, Brentwood resident and Creekside Pickleball Club Member.

Source: Creekside Park Pickleball Club

A post on the effort’s website, savecreekside.com, includes a message to the city council. It reads, “Creekside Park is a healthy, vibrant community hub that unites people across generations, races, and orientations. On these courts, politics disappear. People of all backgrounds come together to share pure joy, stay active, and escape the heavy stresses of the real world. For many in our city, this is their primary outlet for physical and mental well-being.

“The Brentwood Creekside Pickleball Community does not want to be at odds with our local government—we want to work collaboratively with you. We recognize the city’s desire for thoughtful recreation planning, and our community is eager to partner with the City of Brentwood to enhance, maintain, and support these courts so they remain a point of pride for our city.”

Residents and supporters are encouraged to sign the petition asking the City to reconsider the closure and work collaboratively with the community toward a solution.

SIGN THE PETITION [HERE]

Community members are also encouraged to share the petition with neighbors, friends, and others who have benefited from the Creekside courts.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

No on 45 campaign ad spreads “blatant lies” about data centers says Yes campaign

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Claim “defenders of the unaffordable status quo are resorting to scare tactics to distract from the costly delays driving up California’s cost of living”

By Yes on 45

Sacramento, CA — A new ad from the No on 45 campaign are intentionally misrepresenting Proposition 45, relying on blatant lies that are easily refuted by the plain language of the ballot measure.

Prop 45 streamlines approvals for eight defined categories of essential projects Californians need to lower costs and improve our quality of life: housing, water infrastructure, clean energy, transportation, hospitals and health care facilities, schools, broadband, and wildfire prevention.

Data centers, warehouses, and other heavy industrial projects are not included in any of the measure’s eight essential project categories. Yet the No on 45 campaign is attempting to deceive voters into believing they are. Here are the facts:

  • Data Centers are NOT Included in Prop 45: There isn’t a single reference to data centers in the proposed ballot measure nor the Legislative Analyst’s Office analysis. Opponents instead try to shoehorn them into the measure’s definition of “essential broadband Internet access projects” as evidence, but that language is borrowed almost verbatim from existing California law defines broadband Internet access as a “mass-market retail service” provided to customers. (Gov. Code § 53167(a)) Simply put, broadband Internet access is a service provided to customers, not a facility that merely uses or relies on the Internet. The fact that a data center — or any other facility — uses Internet access doesn’t make it a broadband Internet access provider any more than a hospital becomes an electric utility because it uses the power grid.

Rachelle Chong, a former Commissioner of both the Federal Communications Commission and the California Public Utilities Commission, reviewed the measure and concluded unequivocally that “Proposition 45 does not cover a conventional data center merely because the data center is connected to, uses, stores information from, or helps support the Internet. That distinction is both technologically sensible and consistent with the language regulators have used for broadband Internet access for more than fifteen years.”

Her conclusion is shared by the Data Center Coalition, the industry’s own trade group, and by other outside experts who have reviewed the measure and definitively concluded data centers are not included.

  • “Industrial Warehouses” are NOT included in Prop 45: No on 45’s claims about industrial development are just as misleading. Industrial warehouses are not among Prop 45’s eight categories of essential projects, and the measure expressly excludes heavy industrial, extractive, port, refinery and hazardous-materials uses. Section 21028(y)(2) of Prop 45 clearly states: “nonresidential uses shall not include any heavy industrial, extractive, port, refinery, or hazardous materials uses or designations.”

“Prop 45 opponents are lying to voters, plain and simple,” said Amelia Matier of the Yes on 45 campaign. “They know Californians are fed up with an unaffordable status quo that makes it too slow and too expensive to build the basics, driving up our cost of living. Instead of defending years of costly delays, they’re resorting to scare tactics about projects that aren’t even included in Prop 45. The measure is right there in black and white: Prop 45 streamlines essential projects like housing, water, clean energy, hospitals, schools and wildfire prevention so we can build faster, lower costs and improve our quality of life.”

Prop 45 streamlines approvals for housing, water infrastructure, clean energy, transportation, hospitals and health care facilities, schools, broadband, and wildfire prevention. It sets clear, enforceable timelines and greater accountability so California can build faster and more affordably while maintaining strong environmental, labor, and tribal cultural resource protections and preserving local decision-making.

California’s affordability crisis is tied directly to how long and how much it costs to build essential projects. Years of unnecessary delays drive up the cost of housing, energy, water, transportation and other essentials, costs ultimately passed on to families, ratepayers and taxpayers. Experts estimate Prop 45 could cut costly delays by 2 to 10+ years, lowering costs, getting critical projects built sooner, and improving quality of life for Californians.

BACKGROUND: Prop 45, the Building an Affordable California Act, modernizes California’s project approval and permitting process for essential projects — including housing, water infrastructure, clean energy, transportation infrastructure, hospitals and health care facilities, schools, broadband, and wildfire prevention projects — by establishing clear timelines, improving accountability, and reducing unnecessary delays, while preserving strong environmental, labor, and tribal cultural resource protections. Prop 45 is supported by a broad and growing coalition of 160+ organizations, including affordable housing advocates, civil rights leaders, clean energy builders, water providers, agricultural groups, and business organizations statewide. Learn more at YESonProp45.com 

See videos about Prop 45 by the League of Women Voters of Marin and Sonoma Counties and about CEQA by the Association of Corporate Counsel, San Diego.

Former Clayton resident, Clayton Valley High grad confirmed as the U.S. Ambassador to Albania

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U.S. Ambassador and U.S. Army Lt. General (Ret.) Eric P. Wendt in a photo (right) taken on November 7, 2019, while serving as Commander, NATO Special Operations Headquarters. Sources: (left) Naval Postgraduate School’s Department of Defense Analysis and (right) U.S. Department of Defense 

9/29/26 UPDATE: U.S. Flag raised as Ambassador Wendt assumes post

9/26/26 UPDATE: Welcomed by Embassy, presents credentials to President of Albania

Retired U.S. Army Lt. General Eric Wendt is a former Commander of NATO Special Operations Headquarters and served 30 years as a Special Forces Green Beret

Class of ’82 CVHS grad

By Allen D. Payton

Former Clayton resident, retired U.S. Army Lt. General Eric Wendt has been confirmed as the next U.S. Ambassador to Albania. He was nominated by President Trump on April 13, 2026, “to be Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America to the Republic of Albania” and was confirmed by the U.S. Senate on August 7th as part of a package of appointments on a 51-to-47 party-line vote. Both Senators from California, Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff, voted against all the appointments.

According to balkanweb.com, the process will conclude with the signature of President Trump, “which is the final step in formalizing his appointment.” According to the September Report of the Ambassadorial Assignments Overseas Office of Presidential Appointments Wendt took his oath of office on August 19th.

According to albeu.com, “The United States Embassy in Albania has responded following the confirmation of retired Lieutenant General Eric Wendt’s appointment as the next U.S. ambassador to the country. In an official statement, the U.S. diplomatic mission announced that Wendt is expected to arrive in Tirana to take up his post as the highest-ranking U.S. representative in Albania.”

In an Aug. 8th post on X, the U.S. Embassy Tirana wrote, “Confirmed! Congratulations to Lieutenant General (ret.) Eric Wendt on his new role to [sic] as the next U.S. Ambassador to Albania! We can’t wait to welcome Ambassador-designate Wendt to Tirana, where he will champion President Trump’s vision for shared security, a stronger NATO, and fair deals for U.S. businesses.”

According to an Aug. 8th report by Atlantiku.com, which publishes news for the Albanian-American community, “Wendt…is expected to assume his duties in Tirana shortly after submitting credentials to the Albanian President,” Bajram Begaj.

That report continues, “In testimony before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee in May, Wendt described Albania as a strong U.S. partner and NATO ally and highlighted the importance of the two countries’ cooperation on security and regional stability…Wendt said his priorities would include strengthening security cooperation, supporting Albania’s fight against corruption and transnational organized crime, expanding cybersecurity cooperation and promoting stronger economic and commercial ties between the United States and Albania.”

The Albanian and United States flags.

Albania is a country of more than 2.3 million people according to the 2026 Census and is located in Southeast Europe east of Italy across the Adriatic Sea. It is bordered by Montenegro, Kosovo, North Macedonia and Greece.

According to a State Department Spokesperson, “President Trump is assembling an America First diplomatic A-team across his administration. We look forward to Ambassador Wendt advancing U.S.-Albanian relations.”

About Wendt

Born in Berkeley on October 7, 1964, the soon to be 62-year-old Eric Patrick Went grew up in Clayton, CA. According to an August 2021 report by the Concord-Clayton Pioneer following his “joint service retirement ceremony overlooking Monterey Bay on Aug. 19,” that year, he “graduated from Clayton Valley High School in 1982. Wendt was the longest serving active-duty Special Forces branched Green Beret of any rank still on active duty as of his retirement date. At three stars, he retired at the highest rank achieved by any Special Forces branched/career-long Green Beret since the group’s creation in 1952.”

The Pioneer also reported, “Wendt is the son of Pete and Pat Wendt. He married the former Katherine Laurie of San Jose, and they have two grown children, Emma and Alden.”

“I am thankful to have been a soldier for over 34 years and to have served alongside incredible men and women from all the American services and many different American agencies, as well as troopers and civilian government employees from many other countries,” Wendt said.

“I will always be thankful for all of my brothers in the Green Berets,” he added, noting that several of them flew to Monterey from around the world to attend the ceremony.

At a Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing, General Eric Wendt—nominated to serve as U.S. Ambassador to Albania—faced sharp questioning from lawmakers. Senators pressed him on how he would address corruption, support key reforms, and help strengthen democratic institutions in Albania. Watch the key moments from the confirmation hearing. Source: Congress Clips

See video of Wendt’s comments and responses to Senators’ questions during the Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing.

According to the U.S. State Department’s website, the Certificate of Competency for Retired Lt. General Eric Wendt was presented in a report to the U.S. Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, on April 22, 2026. “Certificates of Competency must be presented to the…Committee for presidential nominees to be Chief of Mission that demonstrate the competence of a nominee to perform the duties of the position in which he or she is to serve.”

According to the report, at that time, Wendt worked “as a Professor of Practice teaching Command and Leadership at the Naval Postgraduate School (NPS). When still in uniformed service as a three-star general, he was stationed in Europe and served as the Commander for the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Special Operations Headquarters. He commanded all Special Operations Forces apportioned to NATO (to include Albanian special operations units) and worked in Albania with Defense leaders and troopers. Previously, he served for a year in Afghanistan as a Regional Deputy Commander, which included oversight of troopers from Albania.

During over 34 years of active duty, he held multiple senior command positions and led organizations with up to thousands of military, civilian, and interagency personnel. He worked for the U.S. Department of State for two years as an integral part of U.S. Embassy Jerusalem where he led an eight-country coalition as the U.S. Security Coordinator, Israel-Palestinian Authority and reported directly to the Secretary of State. His considerable leadership experience, proven ability to manage complex multinational and interagency organizations, and his regional expertise throughout Europe make Lt. General (Ret.) Wendt well-qualified to serve as U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Albania.

Lt. General (Ret.) Wendt earned a B.A. degree from the University of California, Santa Barbara and an M.A. degree from the Naval Postgraduate School, Monterey, California. He speaks Arabic and Korean. He is a recipient of numerous awards and honors including the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, the Distinguished Service Medal (with one oak leaf cluster), the Bronze Star Medal (with two oak leaf clusters), and the U.S. Department of State Superior Honor Award.”

According to his Faculty Page on the Naval Postgraduate School website, Wendt’s “final assignment on active duty was as the fifth Commander of NATO Special Operations Forces Command (NATO Allied SOFCOM) before retiring from uniformed military service in 2021.  As a General Officer he served as the sole Deputy Commanding General (for both Operations and Support) for the 13,500 multinational troops from 17 countries in Regional Command-North in Afghanistan; as a Sub-Unified Theater Special Operations Commander (TSOC Commander), as the Commanding General of the JFK Special Warfare Center and School; as the Chief of Staff for the United States INDOPACOM; he also led an eight-country coalition as the three-star United States Security Coordinator for Israel and the Palestinian Authority, working in multiple countries throughout the Middle East in that assignment.

“LTG (Ret.) Wendt commanded multiple separate organizations for 13 years at tactical, operational and strategic levels while participating in numerous peacetime training and combat operations throughout the globe. He also served as the Principal Military Assistant to the Secretary of Defense.  LTG (Ret.) Wendt received his bachelor’s degree from the University of California at Santa Barbara and received his master’s degree in 1995 from the Naval Postgraduate School (he was in the third class of what today is the Defense Analysis program). Ten years later, he successfully completed a yearlong academic fellowship in the Naval Postgraduate School’s Department of Defense Analysis. In 2018 he was recognized as a Distinguished Alumnus of the Naval Postgraduate School.

“Since retiring from uniformed service in 2021, LTG (Ret.) Wendt worked from 2022-2025 as one of two DOD Senior Mentors in Korea.  He has published multiple military professional journal articles and taught as a Professor of Practice. LTG (Ret.) Wendt had significant guests who are strategic leaders from military, business, interagency, international and other fields speak with his Command and Leadership courses, and he serves as the moderator when these guest speakers provide their “Fireside Chats” to the entire assembled Naval Postgraduate School student body.

“In 2023 he was inducted into the US Army ROTC National Hall of Fame, and in 2023 was also one of four inducted into the Defense Language Institute Foreign Language Center (DLIFLC) Hall of Fame.”

Master Chief Andrew Harrison, NATO Special Operations Headquarters (NSHQ) command senior enlisted leader, receives the NSHQ guidon from incoming NSHQ commander Lieutenant General Eric P. Wendt during a change of command ceremony held at SHAPE (Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe) on November 7, 2019. During the ceremony Lieutenant General Wendt assumed command from Vice Admiral Kilrain as the 5th commander of NATO Special Operations Headquarters. (left) Incoming NATO Special Operations Headquarters (NSHQ) commander Lieutenant General Eric P. Wendt, left, Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR) General Tod D. Wolters, centre, and Outgoing NSHQ commander Vice Admiral Colin J. Kilrain stand at attention during a change of command ceremony at SHAPE on November 7, 2019. (right) Source: NATO SHAPE

According to NATO Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe 2019 report, “A Change of Command ceremony took place for the NATO Special Operations Headquarters (NSHQ) at Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE) on Thursday, November 7, 2019. Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR) General Tod D. Wolters presided over the event which saw Vice Admiral Colin J. Kilrain hand over command of the NSHQ to Lieutenant General Eric P. Wendt.”

According to his Wikipedia page, “As a general officer, Wendt previously served as the United States Security Coordinator for the Israel-Palestinian Authority from November 2017 to October 2019, with prior general officer terms as the chief of staff of the United States Pacific Command from May 2015 to September 2016, as the commanding general of the John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School from 2014 to 2015, as the commander of Special Operations Command Korea from 2012 to 2014, and as the deputy commander of Regional Command North of the International Security Assistance Force from 2011 to 2012 in Afghanistan.”

President Trump had previously nominated Wendt “to be United States ambassador to Qatar on September 22, 2020, but his confirmation hearing was not scheduled before the 116th Congress permanently adjourned on January 3, 2021, so his nomination was returned without action.”

According to Albanian news website, Pamfleti.net, “The US Embassy in Tirana has been without a full-time ambassador for about three years, following the departure of Ambassador Yuri Kim (of Guam) in 2023. During this period, the mission has been led by chargé d’affaires and temporary representatives.” According to the Embassy’s website, the Ambassador prior to Kim, from 2015-2018, was Donald Lu, who, like Wendt, is also from California.

According to the U.S. Foreign Service Association’s Tracker of Current U.S. Ambassadors, as of Sept. 1st, Wendt is listed as the Ambassador to Albania and there are 196 positions of which 99 are vacant. However, nothing on the Embassy’s website confirms he has arrived in Tirana, yet.

According to The Notable People Project, “Wendt retired from active duty on March 1, 2021, concluding over 34 years of military service. His retirement ceremony marked the end of a career that took him from infantry platoons to the highest echelons of NATO command. His legacy is that of a soldier-diplomat who consistently operated at the intersection of special operations, international policy, and alliance management.

“In retirement, Wendt continues to contribute to national security discourse. His insights, drawn from decades of hands-on leadership in complex geopolitical environments, are sought after for strategic consulting and advisory roles. He remains a respected voice on issues of special operations, counterterrorism, and international security cooperation.

Leadership Style and Personality

“Eric Wendt is characterized by a leadership style that is both cerebral and grounded. Colleagues and subordinates describe him as a thoughtful, quiet professional who leads with a calm and measured confidence. He is not given to outbursts or flashy displays of authority, instead preferring to exercise influence through meticulous preparation, strategic vision, and a genuine engagement with the mission and his team.

“His interpersonal approach is built on respect and a deep appreciation for the expertise of those around him. Fluent in Arabic and Korean, Wendt’s language skills symbolize a broader commitment to understanding partners and adversaries on their own terms. This cultural and linguistic competency allowed him to build trust and achieve objectives in highly sensitive international environments where mere presence is insufficient.

Philosophy or Worldview

“Wendt’s operational philosophy is deeply informed by the Special Forces mantra of ‘by, with, and through.’ He believes in the paramount importance of enabling partner nations to secure themselves, rather than imposing solutions from the outside. This approach emphasizes long-term relationship building, capacity development, and respect for sovereignty as the sustainable path to stability.

“He views special operations not as an isolated instrument of power, but as a fully integrated element of broader national strategy. His career reflects a conviction that military force, particularly special operations, must be coupled with diplomatic engagement and a deep understanding of political and social contexts to be truly effective and legitimate.

Impact and Legacy

“Eric Wendt’s legacy is that of a pivotal figure in the modern evolution of U.S. and NATO special operations. He played a central role in shifting the focus of special forces from direct action missions to the more complex, long-term tasks of building partner capacity and strengthening alliances. His commands in Korea, at the Special Warfare Center, and at NATO headquarters directly shaped the forces and doctrine that address contemporary hybrid threats.

“His tenure as U.S. Security Coordinator in Jerusalem and his nomination for ambassador to Qatar underscore the increasing reliance on senior military officers with his profile for critical diplomatic-security roles. Wendt demonstrated how deep regional expertise, linguistic skill, and strategic patience are indispensable assets in 21st-century statecraft, blurring the traditional lines between military and diplomatic functions.

Personal Characteristics

“Beyond his professional duties, Wendt is known as an avid reader and a lifelong learner, with intellectual curiosity that extends beyond military theory into history, culture, and global affairs. This personal dedication to continuous learning underpinned his ability to quickly grasp the nuances of every complex assignment he undertook.

“He maintains a strong commitment to physical fitness and the warrior ethos, values instilled through his Special Forces career. Even in high-level staff and diplomatic roles, he embodied the Green Beret ideal of the ‘quiet professional,’ valuing substance over self-promotion and finding satisfaction in the successful execution of the mission and the growth of his teams.”

Ongoing Demonstrations

Wendt can expect to be greeted by one of the on-going demonstrations in Albania. According to a Demonstration Alert issued by the Embassy on September 8, 2026, “Nightly demonstrations continue in Tirana, with protesters gathering in Skanderbeg Square.  Additional protests may occur in the coming days, and potentially in other cities.

“Protests and large gatherings can begin peacefully but escalate quickly without warning, disrupting traffic and services, and sometimes turning violent.  Protests may also expand to nearby areas, including government buildings.  Embassy Tirana personnel have been advised to avoid demonstrations, particularly near government institutions.

“Enhanced police presence, road closures, detours, and traffic disruptions can be expected in the hours leading up to and during the protests.”

Interview Efforts Unsuccessful to Date

Efforts to reach Wendt for an interview were unsuccessful prior to publication time. Drew Bailey, Press Officer for the U.S. Department of State responded Tuesday, Sept. 15th, to the request and if he has yet to arrive in Albania writing, “Ambassador-Designate Wendt has not arrived in Tirana yet, so the Embassy has not been arranging interviews. They have noted your interest however and will follow-up in the future if the Ambassador wishes to participate in an interview.”

Albanian President Begaj greets and then receives the credentials from Ambassador Wendt inside the Presidential Office Building in Tirana on Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026. Photos: US Embassy Tirana

Wendt Presents Credentials

9/26/26 UPDATE:  On Saturday, Sept. 26, Ambassador Wendt was welcomed by the U.S. Embassy and presented his credentials to Albanian President Bajram Begaj who announced receipt of his “Letters of Credence” at the Presidential Office Building in Tirana. Wendt was joined during the ceremony by his wife, Katherine.

Ambassador and Mrs. Wendt with President Begaj on the steps of the Presidential Office Building in Tirana, Albania Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026. Photos: U.S. Embassy Tirana

(Right) Katherine Wendt is presented with flowers and greeted by President Begaj during a receiving line at the Presidential Office Building Saturday, Sept. 26. Photos: U.S. Embassy Tirana

In a post on X the U.S. Embassy wrote, “Welcome Ambassador Wendt! The new U.S. Ambassador to Albania, Eric Wendt, presented his credentials to President Bajram Begaj. Ambassador Wendt and President Begaj reaffirmed the strong U.S.-Albania partnership and discussed advancing the priorities of President Donald J. Trump’s administration, including defense cooperation, economic growth, and fighting transnational criminal groups.”

Screenshot of post on X by U.S. Embassy Tirana and Ambassador Eric P. Wendt greeted by Albanian President Bajram Begaj in the president’s office. Photo source: Office of Albanian President Begaj

President Begaj also posted on X writing, “Today, I received the newly appointed Ambassador of the United States of America to Albania, H.E. Eric Wendt, on the occasion of the presentation of his Letters of Credence.

“I wished Ambassador Wendt every success in his mission and reaffirmed Albania’s determination to further strengthen our strategic partnership with the United States.

“Albania will remain fully committed to deepening our relations and advancing our shared interests. The United States remains an indispensable partner for Albania, as well as for our security and prosperity.”

U.S. Ambassador Wendt-meets with President of Albania Begaj on Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026, and screenshot of Pres. Begaj’s X Post that day. Photo: Office of President of Albania Bajram Begaj

H.E. means His Excellency, which is used as a formal title for high-ranking officials, such as ambassadors or governors.

Post on X by U.S. Embassy Tirana (left), and the Marine Security Guard presents the American flag to Ambassador Wendt with his wife, Kathryn to his right and Deputy Chief of Mission Nancy VanHorn to his left, as they prepare to raise it over the official residence in Tirana, Albania Tuesday, Sept. 29, 2026. Photos: U.S. Embassy Tirana

U.S. Flag Raised as Ambassador Wendt Assumes Post

9/29/26 UPDATE: U.S. Embassy raises the American flag. A post on Tuesday, Sept. 29 on the U.S. Embassy Tirana X account reads, “A new chapter begins in Albania! The Marine Security Guard raised the American flag over the official residence as Ambassador Wendt assumes his post. Under President Trump, our alliances are at their strongest when we stand together, share responsibility, and build a more prosperous and safer future for both our nations.”

Ambassador Wendt, with his wife, Kathryn to his right and Deputy Chief of Mission Nancy VanHorn to his left, embassy staff and Marines salute the flag after it’s raised over the official residence, then speaks with the Marine Security Guard on Tuesday, Sept. 29, 2026, and in his official photo. Source: U.S. Embassy Tirana

Please check back later for any additional updates to this report.

Annual Block Party, Fiesta Vecinal brings services, food and fun to Central County Sept. 29

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Source: Contra Costa Public Defender’s Office

City of Pleasant Hill, District 4 Supervisor Ken Carlson to partner on event

By Kristi Jourdan, PIO, Contra Costa County

(Pleasant Hill, CA) – Contra Costa County is bringing its services directly to the community with the annual Contra Costa County Block Party on Tuesday, September 29, from 4:00–7:00 p.m. at the Pleasant Hill Library, 2 Monticello Avenue, Pleasant Hill.

Contra Costa residents can stop by to take care of County business, connect with local government, get help with important tasks—and enjoy an evening of food, fun and community.

District 4 Supervisor Ken Carlson and the City of Pleasant Hill are partnering with the County to host this free, family-friendly event and make it easier for residents to access services outside regular business hours.

“The County Block Party is about meeting people where they are and bringing County services directly into the community,” Vice Chair Ken Carlson said. “By bringing resources together in one welcoming place, we’re making it easier for residents to access the support they need and feel connected to their community.”

Residents can register to vote, obtain copies of vital records and apply for programs such as Veterans Benefits, CalFresh and Medi-Cal. County staff will also answer questions, connect residents with resources and help them navigate County services.

“We’re proud to partner with Supervisor Carlson and Contra Costa County to bring this important event to Pleasant Hill,” said Pleasant Hill Mayor Zac Shess. “The Block Party reflects our shared commitment to accessible services, stronger connections between residents and local government, and a vibrant community.”

County departments — including the Public Defender’s Office, Clerk-Recorder-Elections, Employment & Human Services Department, Public Works and Contra Costa Health — will join the City of Pleasant Hill to provide services, resources and information. Residents can also enjoy food, entertainment and activities for all ages.

Since launching in 2017, the County Block Party has brought County services and staff into communities across the County, rotating locations each year to make government more accessible and strengthen connections with residents. This year marks the event’s seventh year.

Come for the services. Stay for the food, fun and community.

For more information, visit here: Contra Costa County Block Party.