Contra Costa Herald

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

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DeSaulnier to host 200th town hall meeting Dec. 9th 

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At Diablo Valley College

Rep. Mark DeSaulnier

Congressman Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10) has announced he will host his 200th Town Hall since coming to Congress on Saturday, December 9th at 1 p.m. at the Bistro at Diablo Valley College’s Pleasant Hill Campus.

“I am grateful for the continued engagement of the people of California’s 10th Congressional District and look forward to celebrating this milestone together,” said DeSaulnier.

During the town hall he will provide a recap of House Democrats’ efforts this past year to support the American people and a preview of his legislative priorities heading into the new year.

Town Hall at Diablo Valley College

Saturday, December 9th
1:00 – 2:00 PMThe Bistro

321 Golf Club Road, Pleasant Hill

This event is open to the public and press and will be streamed live on Congressman DeSaulnier’s Facebook page.

To RSVP, submit a question, or request special accommodations, visit  https://desaulnier.house.gov/town-hall-rsvp or call (925) 933-2660.

 

East Bay Regional Park District announces new Equity Officer

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New EBRPD Equity Officer José G. González. Photo: EBRPD

By Dave Mason, Public Information Supervisor, Public Affairs, East Bay Regional Park District

After a nationwide search, the East Bay Regional Park District announces the appointment of José G. González as its new Equity Officer to lead diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts at the public agency. The East Bay Regional Park District’s mission is to preserve a rich heritage of natural and cultural resources and provide open space, parks, trails, safe and healthful recreation and environmental education. An environmental ethic guides the District in all of its activities. González begins in the role on December 18, 2023.

As the largest regional park district in the country, the park system spans Alameda and Contra Costa counties and serves an estimated 30 million visitors a year through park and trail access, visitor centers, and programs. Its workforce provides services that encompass 73 parks, 55 miles of shoreline, and over 1,300 miles of trails.

“We are pleased to share news of this pivotal role and welcome José González to help lead the East Bay Regional Park District to further strengthen its mission and impact and build upon successes as we continue to prioritize a strong, systemic approach to equity both in our workplace and services to the public,” said Sabrina B. Landreth, General Manager at the East Bay Regional Park District.

The new role will work to improve access to and use of the parks’ services for all community members and support inclusive programs, services, and public processes that reflect the tremendous diversity of our community. The position will also lead on programs and activities to help diversify our workforce, eliminate any systemic barriers to employment and promotion, and ensure equitable policies and best practices to make the agency an employer of choice as the District continuously seeks to build and retain a topnotch workforce.

“I am excited to join the East Bay Regional Park District as its inaugural Equity Officer. I look forward to bringing my experience from the local to the national level around equity in the conservation field and community in a way that showcases the opportunity and leadership that the Park District has been developing in this space for all of our community,” said González.

“Equity and inclusion begin from within, so I am thrilled and ready to support and lead the work that the Park District has prioritized for the agency to represent and reflect the diversity of its community,” added González.

González is a professional educator with training in the fields of education and conservation. He is the Founder of Latino Outdoors as well as a consultant at large. As a Partner at the Avarna Group and through his own consulting, his work focuses on Equity & Inclusion frameworks and practices in the environmental, outdoor, and conservation fields. He is also an illustrator and science communicator.

He received his B.A. at the University of California, Davis with teaching coursework at the Bilingual, Multicultural, Education Department at Sacramento State University. He received his M.S. at the University of Michigan School of Natural Resources & Environment. He serves as a board member at Parks CA and Resource Media, and as a Commissioner for the California Boating & Waterways Commission, among other leadership volunteer roles.

According to his profile on parkscalifornia.org, González is the Founder and Director Emeritus of Latino Outdoors. He is an experienced educator as a K-12 public education teacher, environmental education advisor, outdoor education instructor and coordinator, and university adjunct faculty. As a Partner in the Avarna Group and through his own consulting, his work focuses on Equity & Inclusion frameworks and practices in the environmental, outdoor, and conservation fields.  He is also an illustrator and science communicator.

The East Bay Regional Park District is the largest regional park system in the nation, comprising 73 parks, 55 miles of shoreline, and over 1,300 miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and environmental education. The Park District receives more than 25 million visits annually throughout Alameda and Contra Costa counties in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

 

Join the annual Counties Care Holiday Food Fight Challenge

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Help Contra Costa beat Solano County to win the Big Apple trophy

By Contra Costa County District 3 Supervisor Diane Burgis

I would like to take a moment to wish you and your family a Happy Thanksgiving and invite you to participate in the annual Counties Care Holiday Food Fight to raise money for the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano.

Once again, in 2023 Contra Costa and Solano counties will compete to raise funds for the Food Bank. This friendly competition, spearheaded by individual county departments, has raised nearly $2.7 million since 2003. The county that raises the most funds per employee will win the Big Apple trophy. The trophy and bragging rights pass back and forth annually, but the real winners are the recipients of the funds you raise: those that go hungry in our communities. (See results from past years’ Food Fights)

Please help raise funds for the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano with a donation today. Every dollar donated provides enough food to make two meals. Of every dollar donated, 97 cents go toward food programs.

Counties Care Holiday Food Fight Challenge!

WHO: Contra Costa and Solano County Residents

WHAT: Counties Care Holiday Food Fight 2023

WHEN: Now through December 31, 2023

The Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano serves one in four residents and provides more than 3,400,000 meals monthly. While the Food Bank feeds our neighbors seven days a week, the need is felt even more around Thanksgiving, when a nourishing meal is the centerpiece of the day.

As you plan your Thanksgiving menu, I hope you’ll consider our neighbors and donate to make the 2023 Holiday Food Fight a success.

To donate, click the link below or mail a check to our office.

https://give.foodbankccs.org/team/326115

Please make checks payable to: Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano

Mail to: Office of Supervisor Diane Burgis,

Contra Costa County

3361 Walnut Blvd. Ste 140, Brentwood, CA 94513

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

State Attorney General joins FTC lawsuit challenging John Muir Health’s acquisition of San Ramon Regional Medical Center

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Calls it “anti-competitive”

OAKLAND – California Attorney General Rob Bonta today, alongside the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), filed an antitrust lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, challenging John Muir Health’s (John Muir) acquisition of Tenet Healthcare Corporation’s (Tenet) controlling interest in the for-profit San Ramon Regional Medical Center located in San Ramon in Contra Costa County. The complaint for a temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction filed today argues that the acquisition is inherently anticompetitive, and illegal under the Clayton Act. It seeks to block John Muir and Tenet from completing the proposed acquisition, under which John Muir would become the sole owner of San Ramon Regional Medical Center. In the lawsuit, Attorney General Bonta and the FTC argue the proposed acquisition illegally threatens to eliminate substantial competition between the San Ramon Regional Medical Center and John Muir’s nearby hospitals, significantly increasing consolidation in an already highly concentrated market, and leading to increased prices for patients, employers, and insurers.

“We’re in court today challenging John Muir Health’s anticompetitive acquisition of San Ramon Regional Medical Center, because when healthcare markets illegally consolidate, patients pay the price,” said Bonta. “At the California Department of Justice, ensuring that every Californian can access quality, affordable care is a top priority. Competitive markets help keep prices lower. We will continue to fight to ensure that Bay Area residents – and all Californians – can access the affordable healthcare they need to live healthy and happy lives.”

San Ramon Regional Medical Center is a 123-bed general acute care hospital located in the community of San Ramon, California along the I-680 corridor in Contra Costa County. San Ramon Regional Medical Center is currently owned by Tenet and John Muir through a joint venture. Currently, Tenet, a for-profit healthcare company is 51% majority owner of San Ramon Regional Medical Center. Its profitable strategy for San Ramon Regional Medical Center has been to charge lower prices, while offering high quality care. John Muir is a hospital system headquartered in Walnut Creek, California, which owns two general acute care hospitals north of San Ramon along the I-680 corridor: the 540-bed Walnut Creek Medical Center and the 244-bed Concord Medical Center. Both of these hospitals are located in the same geographic market as, and are direct competitors to, San Ramon Regional Medical Center. As such, John Muir’s purchase of the remaining interest in San Ramon raises significant competition concerns. A 2020 RAND study on hospital price transparency found John Muir’s Walnut Creek Medical Center was the costliest hospital in the nation from 2016 through 2018 and reporting by the New York Times stated: “John Muir Health . . . [is] the most costly system in the nation. Private insurers pay its hospitals four times what Medicare reimburses for care.”

In the lawsuit, Attorney General Bonta and the FTC argue that if John Muir were permitted to acquire San Ramon Regional Medical Center, insurers and their enrollees would have fewer alternatives for inpatient services in the I-680 corridor. As a result, John Muir would be able to demand higher rates from insurers. In turn, higher rates would likely lead to higher insurance premiums, co-pays, deductibles, and other out-of-pocket costs or reduced benefits for commercial health insurance enrollees. Furthermore, San Ramon Regional Medical Center also competes with John Muir for patients by investing to improve its quality, service offerings, and facilities. These investments, and the competition that prompts them, provide meaningful benefits to San Ramon’s patients. If allowed to move forward, the proposed acquisition would immediately eliminate this competition, reducing healthcare investment and improvement along the I-680 corridor for California residents.

A copy of the complaint is available here.

 

FTC sues to block John Muir Health’s takeover of San Ramon Regional Medical Center

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Claims proposed deal would threaten competition in I-680 corridor, leading to higher prices and reduced incentive to improve quality of care for patients; John Muir Health assessing options, issues response

The Federal Trade Commission today, Friday, Nov. 17, 2023, sued to block John Muir Health’s proposed $142.5 million deal to acquire sole ownership of San Ramon Regional Medical Center, LLC from current majority owner Tenet Healthcare Corporation, saying the deal will drive up health care costs. (See related article)

The Commission issued an administrative complaint and authorized a lawsuit in federal court alleging the proposed acquisition will eliminate head-to-head competition between John Muir Health (John Muir) and nearby San Ramon Regional Medical Center (San Ramon Medical). John Muir and San Ramon Medical operate in California’s I-680 corridor, which spans Contra Costa and Alameda Counties in the San Francisco Bay Area.

The deal would allow John Muir to demand higher rates at its two hospitals as well as San Ramon Medical for inpatient general acute care services (GAC), which are a broad range of essential medical, surgical, and diagnostic services that require an overnight hospital stay. The elimination of competition between John Muir and San Ramon Medical would also reduce incentives for these hospitals to invest in quality improvements.

“San Ramon Regional Medical Center has played an important role in ensuring Californians in the I-680 corridor have access to quality, affordable care for critical health care services, such as cardiac surgery and childbirth,” said Henry Liu, Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Competition. “John Muir’s acquisition of San Ramon Medical would increase already high health care costs in the area and threaten to stall quality improvements that help advance care for all patients.”

The FTC and the California Attorney General’s office closely cooperated throughout the investigation and will jointly file a complaint in federal district court.

John Muir Health, a non-profit corporation headquartered in Walnut Creek, California, operates two hospitals that provide inpatient GAC services along the I-680 corridor. Dallas-based Tenet operates 61 general acute care hospitals and hundreds of outpatient facilities nationally, including numerous facilities in California.

Currently, Tenet operates San Ramon Medical and holds a 51% interest in the medical center, while John Muir owns a 49% non-operating interest in San Ramon Medical. Under the terms of the proposed deal, John Muir would acquire Tenet’s remaining interest in San Ramon Medical and would become its sole owner and operator.

The complaint alleges that the proposed deal would allow John Muir to control more than 50% of the market for inpatient GAC services sold to commercial insurers and their enrollees in the I-680 corridor, eliminating competition between John Muir and San Ramon Medical to provide better services, high-quality care, and access that benefits patients in this region. Currently, San Ramon Medical is a lower-priced competitor seeking to offer inpatient GAC services in the I-680 corridor to enrollees. John Muir’s hospitals are close competitors to San Ramon Medical in terms of both patient preference and geographic location, according to the complaint. The proposed acquisition would lead to higher insurance premiums, co-pays, deductibles, and other out-of-pocket costs, or reduced benefits for commercial health insurance enrollees, the complaint alleges.

In addition to filing an administrative complaint, FTC staff will also ask a federal court to issue a temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction to prevent John Muir from taking control of San Ramon Medical pending the agency’s administrative proceeding.

The Commission vote to issue the administrative complaint and authorize staff to seek a temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction was 3-0. The federal court complaint and request for preliminary relief will be filed jointly with the California Attorney General in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California to halt the transaction pending an administrative proceeding. A public version of the complaint will be available and linked to this news release as soon as possible.

John Muir Health Assessing Options Following FTC Challenge of Acquisition

In response John Muir Health spokesman Ben Drew issued the following statement:

Today, John Muir Health (JMH) and Tenet Healthcare learned that the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has decided to challenge JMH’s agreement with Tenet to acquire sole ownership of San Ramon Regional Medical Center (SRRMC). JMH has owned a 49% interest in SRRMC since 2013 and, under the proposed agreement, would acquire the remaining 51% interest from Tenet.

 

“We are disappointed by the FTC’s decision, and are discussing our options and next steps, including challenging the decision in court,” said Mike Thomas, president and CEO of John Muir Health. “We believe the proposed acquisition would benefit our community, caregivers and patients, as well as John Muir Health, San Ramon Regional Medical Center, and Pleasanton Diagnostic Imaging.”

For now, SRRMC will continue to operate under the current joint venture structure between JMH and Tenet with Tenet managing the operations of the hospital. Pleasanton Diagnostic Imaging (PDI), which is also part of the proposed agreement, will remain operated by United Surgical Partners International (USPI).

After announcing the agreement in January, JMH and Tenet learned in late March that the FTC intended to conduct a more in-depth review of the transaction. As part of the FTC’s review process, JMH and Tenet submitted a large volume of documents and data, as well as expert testimony on the Bay Area health care market and letters of support from local community leaders and government officials.

By acquiring SRRMC and PDI, JMH would be able to further enhance care for the community by:

  • Integrating SRRMC and PDI onto JMH’s version of Epic, the electronic health record used in the health system’s inpatient and outpatient facilities and by nearly 1,000 physicians and healthcare providers throughout the community.
  • Extending JMH’s quality enhancement and population health programs to SRRMC and the surrounding community.
  • Making investments in facilities and enhanced services at SRRMC to reduce the number of patients leaving the community for their care.

Acquiring SRRMC is consistent with JMH’s history and would further the health system’s mission to improve the health of the communities it serves with quality and compassion. In 1997, John Muir Medical Center and Mt. Diablo Medical Center came together along with the John Muir Physician Network to create John Muir Health to better serve the community.

“We appreciate the patience of John Muir Health, San Ramon Regional Medical Center and Pleasanton Diagnostic Imaging-affiliated employees and physicians throughout this process,” continued Thomas. “Once we determine our course of action, we will communicate with all impacted audiences.”

NOTE: The Commission issues an administrative complaint when it has “reason to believe” that the law has been or is being violated, and it appears to the Commission that a proceeding is in the public interest. The issuance of the administrative complaint marks the beginning of a proceeding in which the allegations will be tried in a formal hearing before an administrative law judge.

The Federal Trade Commission works to promote competition, and protect and educate consumers. You can learn more about how competition benefits consumers or file an antitrust complaint.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

 

State Public Utilities Commission approves 12.8% PG&E rate increase

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Claims typical residential customer will pay $32.62 more for combined monthly electric and natural gas bill beginning January 1, 2024.

By CPUC

The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) on Thursday, Nov. 16, 2023, resolved Pacific Gas and Electric Company’s (PG&E) General Rate Case (GRC), which covers its operational and infrastructure revenue requirement for 2023-2026. The decision marks a crucial step in fortifying the future of California’s electric grid while prioritizing customer affordability.

Based on the evidence presented, the CPUC today unanimously approved the Alternate Proposed Decision of Commissioner John Reynolds. This decision approves investments in the safety and reliability of PG&E’s energy services. Inflation and a significant investment in undergrounding electric lines ranked among the top drivers in PG&E’s request. Over the past year and a half, numerous parties reviewed PG&E’s GRC request and provided input on each cost category and related proposed expenditures.

“I am proud of today’s decision because it represents the CPUC’s commitment to finding a reasonable balance in the face of incredibly challenging circumstances and competing objectives,” said Commissioner John Reynolds, who is assigned to the proceeding. “This decision ultimately represents both an historic investment in PG&E’s electric and natural gas systems as well as an expectation that PG&E must continue to be safer and more efficient. I am grateful to the many parties, and the scores of CPUC staffers, for their help as we grappled with this decision.”

Today’s decision propels PG&E’s energy infrastructure and operations into the future, addressing critical objectives such as mitigating wildfire risk, enhancing safety and reliability, and anticipating evolving electric grid demands. This comprehensive approach not only ensures PG&E’s capacity to maintain a safe and reliable energy system with a dedicated workforce, but also positions California for a more resilient energy future in the face of climate change. Moreover, the decision reflects rigorous oversight over hundreds of programs, and reduces PG&E’s request to more accurately reflect forecasts for prudent use of ratepayer funds.

Among the key initiatives covered in the decision:

  • Wildfire System Enhancement and Undergrounding
    • Approves 1,230 miles of electric line undergrounding, as well as 778 miles of covered conductor, totaling 2,008 hardened miles. This represents an historic opportunity for PG&E to invest in safer, reliable improvements for its customers while also achieving economies of scale to drive down costs; the revised undergrounding total also provides PG&E with a bridge to a future phase of undergrounding planning, through the Senate Bill 884 program.
  • Vegetation Management
    • Approves PG&E investing approximately $1.3 billion in vegetation management to reduce wildfire ignition risk and improve reliability on PG&E’s electrical system.
  • Capacity Upgrades
    • Approves PG&E investing more than $2.5 billion in upgrading the electric distribution system from 2023-2026, which will help prepare the grid to support initiatives for enhanced building electrification and new interconnections for electric vehicle charging stations and new housing and businesses.

“Today’s decision balances a myriad of competing interests—affordability, feasibility, safety, and reliability,” said CPUC President Alice Reynolds. “And in the face of increasingly turbulent climate-driven weather events, it gives PG&E the opportunity to prove it can underground electric lines at scale.  This will allow PG&E to achieve economies of scale, drive down costs, and reduce wildfire risk.”

Setting the pathway for critical investments in PG&E’s system

For PG&E customers, this approval by the CPUC translates to a continued commitment to safe, reliable, and affordable energy services. The GRC ensures that every dollar invested contributes to more resilient energy infrastructure, offering customers lasting benefits. Moreover, stringent accountability measures are embedded within the decision, assuring customers that their investment yields tangible and accountable improvements in PG&E’s operations and services.

PG&E requested $15.4 billion for 2023; Thursday’s decision cut that amount substantially, by $1.8 billion. Today’s decision sets the 2023 revenue requirement at $13.5 billion, reflecting an 11 percent increase from the authorized 2022 revenue requirement. For the typical residential customer, their combined monthly electric and natural gas bill will increase by $32.62 or 12.8 percent, compared to PG&E’s request of $38.73 or 17.9 percent increase.

PG&E’s 2022 Authorized Revenue Requirement Proposed 2023
Revenue Requirement		 Percent Increase Dollar Increase
$12.2 billion PG&E Request $15.4 billion 26% $3.2 billion
Decision $13.5 billion 11% $1.3 billion

Customers can expect any changes to their bill to go into effect on January 1, 2024.

For further information on the proceeding, including today’s decision and a fact sheet, please visit the CPUC’s website.

About the California Public Utilities Commission

The CPUC regulates services and utilities, protects consumers, safeguards the environment, and assures Californians access to safe and reliable utility infrastructure and services. Visit www.cpuc.ca.gov for more information.

 

 

 

 

Contra Costa County accepting applications for next Treasurer-Tax Collector

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Russell Watts retiring Dec. 31

Nov. 22 deadline to apply

Russell Watts. Source: CCC

Contra Costa County is recruiting for the next Treasurer-Tax Collector following the announcement of Russell Watts’ retirement, effective Dec. 31, 2023.

The current term for the elected office expires on Jan. 4, 2027. Government Code section 25304 requires that the Board of Supervisors appoint someone to fill the vacancy for the remainder of the term.

“We appreciate Rusty’s service over the past 21 years and wish him well in this next chapter,” said Board Chair District I Supervisor John Gioia.

The Treasurer-Tax Collector is required to be a registered voter of Contra Costa County at the time of appointment by the Board of Supervisors. To qualify for appointment to the office, a person must also meet at least one of the four criteria:

  • The person has served in a senior financial management position in a county, city, or other public agency dealing with similar financial responsibilities for a continuous period of not less than three years, including, but not limited to, treasurer, tax collector, auditor, auditor-controller, or the chief deputy or an assistant in those offices.
  • The person possesses a valid baccalaureate, masters, or doctoral degree from an accredited college or university in any of the following major fields of study: business administration, public administration, economics, finance, accounting, or a related field, with a minimum of 16 college semester units, or their equivalent, in accounting, auditing, or finance.
  • The person possesses a valid certificate issued by the California Board of Accountancy pursuant to Chapter 1 (commencing with Section 5000) of Division 3 of the Business and Professions Code, showing that person to be, and a permit authorizing that person to practice as, a certified public accountant.
  • The person possesses a valid charter issued by the Institute of Chartered Financial Analysts showing the person to be designated a Chartered Financial Analyst, with a minimum of 16 college semester units, or their equivalent, in accounting, auditing, or finance.

Contra Costa County is committed to racial equity, inclusion, and social justice within all county operations and is dedicated to the advancement of key initiatives and efforts in support of this essential mission. The ideal candidate will also possess a value system that engenders trust and confidence and embodies a commitment to racial equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Watts, who is leaving office to spend more time with family, served as the elected-Treasurer-Tax Collector for 13 years and as the Chief Deputy Treasurer-Tax Collector eight years prior.

“It has been a privilege and an honor to serve the residents of Contra Costa County,” Watts said. “I have met and worked with many wonderful people during my tenure and am very grateful for their support and trust.”

To apply visit www.contracosta.ca.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=4563. Please send the completed application and supplemental questionnaire to jobs@hrd.cccounty.us.

Contra Costa County
Summary -Treasurer-Tax Collector Appointment Timeline
Date Description/Action
10/27/2023 Recruitment commences
11/22/2023 Recruitment closes (4 weeks)
11/27/2023 Applications Disclosed/Special Meeting Agenda Published for 11/30/23
11/30/2023 Special Meeting: Board of Supervisors Consider Applicants for Interview
12/12/2023 Regular Meeting: Board of Supervisors Interview Applicants and Makes Appointment
12/14/2023 Special Meeting: Continuation of Interviews (if needed)

Emotions erupt as Richmond Council votes to condemn Israel, support “Palestinian People of Gaza”

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Bachir Hadid points and yells at an audience member during the Richmond City Council meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023. Source: FOX News video screenshot

Supervisor Gioia opposes, writing, “The passage of any resolution, regardless of attempts to amend it, will only contribute to the divisiveness.”

Passes on split 5-1 vote

By Allen D. Payton

Richmond Mayor Martinez speaks about his resolution. Source: FOX News video screenshot

Emotions ran high during the five-hour public comments, discussion and approval by the Richmond City Council of a “Resolution Affirming Richmond’s Support and Solidarity with the Palestinian People of Gaza” during their meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 24, 2023. (See 3:00:30 mark of council meeting video)

The Agenda Report for the item (#R.1.) read, “Considering recent events, it’s essential for Richmond’s city council to reflect on our community’s role in the broader global landscape and to stand in solidarity with oppressed people everywhere.

The UN Human Rights Council has expressed grave concerns about the treatment of the Palestinian People. Given this context and understanding the U.S.’s historical backing of Israel, Richmond should evaluate its stance. There are concerns about war crimes against Palestinians due to this support. The lessons from the Afghanistan and Iraq situations further emphasize the need for a measured response in international matters.

At the same time, Richmond acknowledges the importance of safety and dignity for the Jewish community. The city is committed to combating any form of antisemitism. Our discussions should focus on these issues, ensuring Richmond’s actions are consistent with our commitments.”

A woman speaks in favor of the resolution during public comments in front of a pro-Palestine banner held by audience members. Video screenshot.

However, the latter didn’t occur. A FOX News report shows Mayor Eduardo Martinez, who, along with Vice Mayor Gayle McLaughlin proposed the resolution, saying, “We are one small city weighing in on the conflict that has the attention of the entire world and on which global superpowers are pouring in money, political attention and military aid. But the people of the United States whose government and tax dollars directly support Israel’s military, have an immediate moral obligation to condemn Israel’s acts or collective punishment in apartheid state.”

While the mayor shared his thoughts on the resolution and reasons for supporting it, he referred to Israel as an “apartheid state” to which some of those in attendance applauded and cheered while others booed. One man could be heard yelling, “You’re an anti-Semite. Stop hating Jews.” (See the 3:05:00 mark of the council meeting video)

Another man, Bachir Hadid, can be seen in the FOX News video yelling and pointing toward the American flag and audience saying, “United States. The flag stands for freedom, justice and liberty,” as Martinez pounded his gavel.

“Anti-Semite. You’re an anti-Semite,” the one man yelled out, again. Hadid responded with, “It doesn’t work anymore. It does not work.”

The mayor then called a recess.

Another man standing in the back said, “I’m a Jew and I support Palestine.”

Then turning toward the audience, standing, pointing his finger and gesturing with his arm, Hadid exclaimed, “My grandfather stood up for the Jews. We stood up for you when you were killed. But now Israel is killing children. Children.”

Bachir Hadid speaks calmly during public comments in favor of the resolution. Video screenshot.

Later, when he spoke calmly during public comments after his name was announced by the City Clerk, Hadid said, “My family stood against Nazism. They stood against anti-Semitic. I stand against anti-Semitic,” and “I say, ‘free, free Palestine’ and if you are human, you should support this resolution. Thank you.” (See 4:37:30 mark of council meeting video)

“This is a very dire situation..that is why we are focusing on doing this tonight,” McLaughlin stated before public comments and discussion on the resolution. Explaining the reasoning for their resolution Martinez said, “The City of Richmond has a history of taking stands on international issues.”

An amendment was added to the resolution, that “we mourn the loss of all civilian lives lost on both sides”.

One woman, Lucinda Cason, who identified herself as a member of Temple Beth Hillel said, “I’m very distressed by the one-sidedness of this original resolution and I think it’s shameful that you had to have public feedback until you finally included the 1,200 people in Israel who were butchered and set on fire, babies that were beheaded and women that were raped. You didn’t even mention that Hamas’ goal is to kill every Jew. That’s in their charter. My hope is we that have a two-state solution and hope we live in peace. But that is not possible while Hamas exists.”

Banner held by an audience member during the Richmond City Council meeting on Oct. 24, 2023. Video screenshot.

That was met with applause.

Speakers spoke on both sides of the issue, with some carrying banners in support of Palestine.

Canto Bryant, who said he is a member of the Jewish clergy and Richmond resident asked the council to “set this proclamation aside by voting no” and “this proclamation is just one more step in making the Jews in your community feel fearful of being alone, unsupported, abandoned just because we are Jews.”

During council comments, McClaughlin said, “We want peace, but we can’t have peace without freedom.”

A copy of Supervisor Gioia’s letter to the Richmond City Council was posted on his X (Twitter) feed on Tuesday afternoon, Oct. 24, 2023.

Supervisor Gioia Opposes Resolution

Before the meeting, Contra Costa County District 1 Supervisor John Gioia, in whose district Richmond is located, issued a letter to the mayor and councilmembers claiming, “The proposed resolution fails to condemn the terrorist Hamas’ killing of innocent Israeli men, women and children, which unfortunately started this recent brutal warfare.”

However, he also wrote, “I believe it is important at times like these to bring our community together rather than create divisiveness. The passage of any resolution, regardless of attempts to amend it, will only contribute to the divisiveness.”

Instead, Gioia suggested the council “bring together our Muslim and Jewish communities in Richmond to work together to develop a resolution that acknowledges and validates the voices of both communities.”

He posted a copy of his letter on his X (formerly Twitter) feed Tuesday afternoon.

But Gioia’s appeal mostly fell on deaf ears. While the council added amendments to the original resolution, the focus remained on support for the people of Gaza.

Adopted Resolution Affirming Richmond’s Support and Solidarity with the Palestinian People of Gaza

Proposed Resolution Affirming Richmond’s Support & Solidarity with Palestinian People of Gaza

118-23 Adopted Resolution Affirming Richmond’s Support for Gaza 10-24-2023

“WHEREAS, the City of Richmond stands in solidarity with the Palestinian people of Gaza, who are currently facing a campaign of ethnic cleansing and collective punishment by the state of Israel; and

WHEREAS, collective punishment is considered a war crime under international law, and refers to a form of sanction imposed on persons or a group of persons in response to a crime committed by one of them or a member of the group; and

WHEREAS, the state of Israel is engaging in collective punishment against the Palestinian people in Gaza in response to Hamas attacks on Israel; and

WHEREAS, this collective punishment of the Palestinian people includes shutting off all access to electricity, drinking water, food, and humanitarian aid; and

WHEREAS, the UN says approximately 2 million people in Gaza may soon run out of drinking water and all medical care; and

WHEREAS, ethnic cleaning refers to the creation of an ethnically homogenous geographic area through the elimination of unwanted ethnic groups by deportation, forcible displacement, or genocide; and

WHEREAS, Israel is now engaged in an ethnic cleansing campaign by explicitly requiring two million Palestinians to leave Gaza immediately or risk being bombed in their homes by the Israeli army; and

WHEREAS, the Gaza Strip, one of the most densely populated places on Earth, has been repeatedly referred to by human rights groups as “the world’s largest open-air prison” even prior to this conflict; and

WHEREAS, Gaza is known as “the world’s largest open-air prison” due to ongoing, unbearable living conditions imposed by the state of Israel, including a full air, land and sea blockade, enclosure of its borders by concrete walls and barbed wire fences, and the strict prohibition of Palestinians from leaving and entering the territory freely; and

WHEREAS, this blockade on Gaza has caused a 42% unemployment rate, while 84% of the population relies on humanitarian aid, 41% of Palestinians have too little food, 60% of Palestinian children are anemic, and the Gazan population cannot count on more than 2-4 hours of continuous electrical power a day; and

WHEREAS, prior to this current water shortage, only 1% of Gaza population has access to safe drinking water, leaving Gaza’s population – half of whom are children – increasingly vulnerable to waterborne diseases, infections, and dehydration; and

WHEREAS, Israel has not allowed many common cancer diagnosis and treatment tools, including PET CT and radiotherapy, to enter Gaza since 2007; and

WHEREAS, pediatric cancer cases that are typically considered treatable are often fatal in the Gaza Strip, as a result of the lack of healthcare and restrictions on movement; and

WHEREAS, the state of Israel would not be able to maintain an apartheid regime without enormous military aid provided by the United States every year, thereby also depriving Americans of money for their own urgent needs;

(AMENDMENT) WHEREAS, 1,400 Israelis have been killed by Hamas on October 7th and nearly 6,000 Palestinians have been killed by the state of Israel in this escalated conflict; and

(AMENDMENT) WHEREAS, we mourn the loss of all civilian lives lost on both sides from October 7th to the present and also throughout the decades of displacement, occupation, oppression and blockade endured in Gaza and the West Bank;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City of Richmond takes seriously the entreaty of “Never Again,” and that the historical memory of the Holocaust means fighting ethnic cleansing and apartheid everywhere; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City of Richmond vows to combat antisemitism and ethno-nationalism in all its forms; and

(AMENDMENT) BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City of Richmond calls for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire and the safe passage of substantial humanitarian aid to Gaza; and

(AMENDMENT) BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City of Richmond calls for the immediate release of all Israeli hostages taken by Hamas; and

(AMENDMENT) BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City of Richmond calls for an end to Israeli apartheid and the occupation and blockade of Palestinian land by Israeli military forces; and

(AMENDMENT) BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City of Richmond opposes all existing and any future military aid to Israel; and

FINALLY, BE IT RESOLVED that the City of Richmond advocates for the dignity and safety of residents in every community, regardless of what crimes its leadership may commit, and that peaceful diplomacy is the only way to achieve this safety and dignity.”

Council Approves on Split Vote

McClaughlin moved approval of the resolution which was seconded by District 3 Councilwoman Doria Robinson. Before the vote District 2 Councilman Cesar Zepeda offered an amendment to the title requesting it include “and condemning the killing, kidnappings and torture of innocent civilians in Israel and Gaza” and “that we at least condemn Hamas for the killings on October 7th.”

But McLaughlin said, “As the maker of the motion I think we want this focused. We have amendments in here that shows we are mourning the loss of all civilian lives, those that were perpetuated by Hamas and those ongoing atrocities by the state of Israel. But the bulk of the resolution and the purpose of the resolution, like I said, was to bring out the voice of Palestinians that have been blacked out by the mainstream media and that are needing to be heard because of the extreme oppression and ongoing harm being done to the people of Gaza.”

His amendment was not accepted, and the final resolution passed on a 5-1 vote with Zepeda voting no and District 6 Councilwoman Claudia Jiminez absent. Before voting, the District 3 councilman said, “while the intent is there, however it’s missing that we are sitting down with our community, and I support a free Palestine, however my vote is no at this time.”

Drafts of Contra Costa County General Plan and Climate Action Plan available for public review

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By Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development

From land use and housing to climate change and environmental justice, residents are invited to explore drafts of the General Plan and Climate Action Plan to ensure they reflect the community’s collective aspirations for Contra Costa County’s future.

View the plans and provide comments on the project website at envisioncontracosta2040.org through Jan. 31, 2024.

The Public Review Draft of the Contra Costa County 2045 General Plan is the County’s primary policy tool to guide physical changes in the unincorporated areas over the next 20 years. It serves as the basis for planning- and infrastructure-related decisions made by County staff and decision makers. It is built around the themes of environmental justice, community health, economic development, and sustainability.

“Our General Plan establishes the policies that will move us towards a more equitable, healthier, safer and stronger future,” said John Gioia, Chair of the Board of Supervisors. “Public participation and input is vital in creating sound policy and guiding our public decisions on the issues that impact every facet of our lives.”

The Public Review Draft Climate Action Plan 2024 Update is the County’s strategic plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) and to adapt to changing climate conditions, such as extreme heat, flooding, droughts, and wildfires, in the unincorporated areas of the County. The 2024 Climate Action Plan implements the General Plan policy guidance and addresses behaviors, regulations, and investment decisions that directly reduce GHG emissions or promote climate resilience.

Community feedback has been the driving force behind these planning efforts. County staff have held over 130 meetings with community members, advocates, stakeholders, and officials. This collaborative effort, including almost 50 community meetings and over 20 with community-based organizations, has shaped the shared vision for Contra Costa County.

BART seeks applicants for public seat on Audit Committee

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BART is seeking applicants to serve as public members on its Audit Committee, which assists the Board of Directors in providing oversight for financial management, operational effectiveness, ethics and regulatory compliance.

The Audit Committee is comprised of five voting members, including three Board Directors and two public members with governmental financial expertise. It meets at least four times per year, with authority to convene additional meetings as needed.

Criteria for the position include:

  • Expertise: Have expertise in governmental accounting, financial management, or Performance auditing, or conducting investigations of fraud, waste, or abuse;
  • Technical Knowledge: Have technical knowledge of accounting, financial or performance auditing, financial reporting, and internal controls, including an understanding of and ability to apply the Government Auditing Standards, accounting standards issued by the Government Accounting Standards Board, and a recognized internal control framework;
  • Professional Certification: Possess a relevant professional certification, such as Certified Public Accountant, Certified Internal Auditor, Certified Fraud Examiner, Certified Inspector General, Certified Internal Controls Auditor, Certified Information Systems Auditor, or a similar certification. Relevant experience may substitute for such certification in the Board’s discretion;
  • No conflicts/recent affiliations: Within the past 10 years and other than in their role as a committee member, have no affiliation with the District or with a firm that has done business with the District.

Public members serving on the Audit Committee must be appointed by a majority of the full Board of Directors through this application process. Public members must possess the independence, experience, and collective technical expertise necessary to carry out the duties of the Audit Committee. Public members must be residents within the District’s boundaries and are subject to conflict-of-interest laws.

The application process has two phases. In Phase 1, all applications will be reviewed to meet all requirements and qualifications, letters of recommendations and any supplemental documents. In Phase 2, selected candidates will be invited to appear before the Board of Directors to briefly explain their interest in serving on the committee, followed by a Board vote.

Download the application form, Audit Committee Public Member appointment rules, and the  Audit Committee Charter.

Please contact the Office of the District Secretary with any questions via email at boardofdirectors@bart.gov.