Contra Costa Herald

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

Former Pleasant Hill Tourism district V.P. faces felony grand theft embezzlement, bribery charges

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Viola Ncube. Source: LinkedIn

Following $55,000 loss, year-long investigation; worked remotely

By Pleasant Hill Police Department

After a year-long criminal investigation, felony charges have been filed against a former employee for the Pleasant Hill Tourism Improvement District, known as Visit Pleasant Hill, in connection with an embezzlement and bribery scheme.

In July 2025, the City of Pleasant Hill received a report from a contracted company regarding possible fraud involving former Tourism Improvement District Vice President of Sales and Marketing Sibongile Viola Ncube. The Pleasant Hill Police Department subsequently began an investigation.

The Pleasant Hill Police Department determined that Ncube overcharged invoices and bills paid by the Tourism Improvement District (PHTID) and received unauthorized monetary kickbacks. The fraudulent activity occurred between September 2022 and July 2025 and resulted in an estimated loss of approximately $55,000.

The Pleasant Hill Police Department requested assistance from the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office, including a forensic review of bank statements and related financial records. Following its review, on July 24, the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office filed two felony charges against Ncube, 641.3(a) PC – Commercial Bribery and 508 PC – Grand Theft Embezzlement.

Ncube is scheduled to be arraigned in court later this month.

The PHTID was formed by the City Council in January 2017. According to the Visit Pleasant Hill 2024-25 Annual Report the District assesses all lodging businesses available for public occupancy located within the boundaries of the City of Pleasant Hill. According to the organization’s LinkedIn profile, it is the “Destination marketing organization advancing Pleasant Hill’s visitor economy,” which, according to their Facebook page, “provides official visitor information and promotes local businesses, experiences, and events in Pleasant Hill, CA.”

According to her LinkedIn profile, Ncube worked in the position with Visit Pleasant Hill remotely from May 2023 to August 2025, after starting as Director of Sales & Marketing from April 2020 to April 2023. She has since worked remotely on a contract as Director – AI, Sales & Marketing for Aspire Hospitality from Aug. to Oct. 2025 and now works as Director of Sales & Marketing Omni Hotels & Resorts, full-time since Oct. 2025.

She earned a MBA in Hotel, Restaurant & Tourism Management from Oxford Brookes University in 2003 and an Associate’s degree in Hospitality, Restaurant & Tourism Management from City St George’s, University of London in 2000. Ncube also earned a credential in Advanced AI in Marketing from the Digital Marketing Institute in 2025 and a Diversity Equity and Inclusion Certified Professional from Destinations International Issued in 2022.

Her Facebook page shows Ncube’s last post was in June 2025. It also shows she lives in Los Angeles, is the Founder and CEO of My Black Beauty Box and The Black Book Consultant, still works for Visit Pleasant Hill, and references the Bible verse Isaiah 55:5.

According to an undated report by Black Meetings & Tourism, “Viola has held VP and Director roles specializing in the luxury hotel brands, holding key positions such as Regional Sales Manager with Accor Hotels (3200 hotels), then moving to Director of Sales with the prestigious hotel group Red Carnations (16 global hotels) before joining US based L.E. Hotels (400+hotels) as Director of Business Development – EMEA. Viola then joined the luxury Pineapple Hotels firm as Director of Corporate Sales before being head-hunted in 2011 to set-up Global Hospitality Services for a private investor, a hotel sales & marketing representation company, where she held the position of Vice President.

“Viola Ncube founded The Black Book Consultant in 2017, a boutique full-service management, sales & marketing consulting agency specializing in a curated selection of luxury hotels and DMO’s worldwide. The Black Book Consultant has since acquired several contracts within its first few years of operation, including managing the $300 million dollar opening of Svart.no and Melody Maker Cancun. Viola is currently contracted as VP of Sales & Marketing with Stay Pleasant Hill, the tourism district for the city of Pleasant Hill, CA.

“In 2012, Viola founded iROCK! UK, a social enterprise, an empowerment program, mentoring women into employment & business enterprise.”

The Pleasant Hill Police Department extends its appreciation to the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office for its thorough forensic review and assistance throughout the investigation.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Contra Costa Immigrant Rights Alliance to hold press conference in support of ICE non-cooperation ordinance Tuesday

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Source: Contra Costa Immigrant Rights Alliance

By Jess Jollett

On Tuesday, August 11, 2026, the Contra Costa Immigrant Rights Alliance (CCIRA) is hosting a press event to urge the Board of Supervisors to pass a strong countywide ordinance creating the necessary barriers to prevent Immigration and Customs Enforcement and other federal agencies from pillaging and looting Contra Costa County resources.

For over a year, immigration attorneys, advocates, and community members have worked to propose language and advocate for a strong ordinance. Contra Costa is one of the few Bay Area counties without this protection. Neighboring counties of Alameda, San Mateo, San Francisco, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, and Sonoma all have non-cooperation ordinances in effect. And the draft proposed by county counsel is insufficient to protect our residents and not in compliance with the recent guidance issued by the CA Attorney General.

Inspired by the Summer 2025 TRUTH Act and ICE’s expanding presence in Contra Costa, the Contra Costa Immigrant Rights Alliance, Lift Up Contra Costa, and its allies have been advocating for a non-cooperation ordinance that:

  • Prohibits the usage of our county’s resources and funds for ICE operations.
  • Calls for the creation of county-wide policies to protect county workers.
  • Safeguards our county data from being raided by ICE agents.
  • Ensures that county contractors do not comply or cooperate with ICE agents.
  • Demands that the Sheriff Department report its contact with federal agencies.

Since January, over 50 people have died in ICE custody. We have also witnessed ICE’s rogue extrajudicial killings in Minnesota, Houston and Biddeford. Local ordinances are one answer to these deadly federal immigration enforcement tactics. These unprecedented times require brave leadership and action. We’re calling on the Board of Supervisors to do their duty and to stop delaying. Contra Costa deserves better.

What: Press Event Demanding the Passage of a Strong ICE Non-Cooperation Ordinance in Contra Costa County

Confirmed Speakers: 

Danny Espinoza, Director, Lift Up Contra Costa

Rev. Deborah Lee, Executive Director of Interfaith Movement for Human Integrity

Brandon Dawkins, VP of Organizing, SEIU 1021

Cameron Sasai, Mayor of the City of Pinole

Miosotti Tenecora, Staff Attorney, Immigrant Legal Resource Center

Betty Gabaldon, Concord Organizer Manager, East Bay Alliance for a Sustainable Economy

Tony Bravo, Executive Director, United Latino Voices

Devin Williams, 3rd Vice President, East Contra Costa County NAACP Executive Committee and Vice Chairperson, Antioch Police Oversight Commission

Marifer Marina, Organizer, Monument Impact

Katie Ricklefs, Chair, Democratic Party of Contra Costa

Where: 1025 Escobar Street, Martinez

When: 9:30 am on Tuesday, August 11th

By law California is already a sanctuary state as, according to iceoutofca.org, “California has long enacted laws that restrict state and local law enforcement from cooperating with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in immigration enforcement actions. The most significant of these is the California Values Act (SB 54), which took effect on January 1, 2018,” which “protects the safety and wellbeing of all Californians by limiting use of state and local resources for mass deportations and ensures that important institutions such as schools, health facilities, and courthouses remain accessible to everyone. SB 54 remains legally binding state law, and states and localities continue to have the constitutional right to opt out of federal immigration enforcement.

In addition, the County complies with other state laws regarding law enforcement dealing with undocumented immigrants illegally residing in the U.S. They include:

  • “TRUTH Act (AB 2792, 2017) – Requires local law enforcement to provide “Know Your Rights” information and copies of ICE holds, notifications, or transfer requests to individuals affected.
  • “TRUST Act (AB 4, 2014) – Prohibits local jails from holding individuals beyond the time ICE requests, with some exceptions.”

As previously reported, the Board of Supervisors will hold its annual state TRUTH Act Community Forum to discuss civil immigration enforcement activities during their regular meeting at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, Aug. 25, 2026.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Over $900K scammed from City of Pittsburg in phishing attack

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Investigation, recovery effort results in return of almost $700K

Suspect based in Nigeria

By Toni Baldazo, City of Pittsburg Community Engagement Officer

The City of Pittsburg is reporting a February 2026 phishing incident that resulted in a single unauthorized ACH payment totaling $913,839.81 being sent to a fraudulent account spoofing as a known City vendor. The incident occurred on February 12, 2026, and was identified by City staff on February 17, 2026, prompting immediate action. The City informed the Pittsburg Police Department who expanded the response team to include the County of Contra Costa and Federal Bureau of Investigations.

According to the Federal Trade Commission, phishing is when scammers use email or text messages to try to trick people into giving them personal and financial information to steal passwords, account numbers or Social Security numbers. They are then able access to email, bank and other accounts.

“The instant this incident was identified as fraudulent by City staff, the City’s Police Department acted quickly and immediately froze the account to which the funds were electronically wired,” said Pittsburg Police Chief Phil Galer. “Given the nature of this cybercrime, we contacted related agencies and the FBI to tap all available resources.”

The swift action of the Pittsburg Police Department resulted in the initial recovery of $696,241.00 dollars.  The City is pursuing insurance coverage payment for the remaining $217,598.00, through its cyber and crime insurance policies. The investigation involved several sensitive and intricate components, requiring a number of complex investigative steps over a period of time, to maximize the recovery of funds and to seek identification of the perpetrators.  It included 18 search warrants involving 116 accounts across major technology companies, financial institutions and telecommunications providers. Evidence identified the primary overseas suspect responsible for compromising the City’s email system is based in Nigeria with at least two criminally affiliated U.S.-based suspects. The investigation remains active as the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office have accepted the case for continued investigation domestically and overseas.

“The Pittsburg Police Department remains committed to pursuing every available lead and ensuring the highest level of protection for our city operations,” Chief Galer added.

While the investigation is ongoing with the FBI and related agency partners, it has now reached a point where public disclosure will not compromise the investigation.

In response to the incident, the City immediately implemented new processes to further strengthen internal controls related to financial processes. This includes improvements to digital and human procedures including ACH payment verification processes, and controls within financial workflows, as well as modifications to IT staffing. These enhanced measures reflect significant internal analysis and reinforce the City’s commitment to strong cybersecurity practices that protect public resources.

“Sadly, Pittsburg has joined a long list of public agencies successfully targeted by international crime rings with cyber-based financial crimes. This crime is both upsetting and a hard lesson for how we can improve our security. I share the community’s disappointment that criminals were able to exploit our systems,” said Mayor Dionne Adams. “While this was a difficult moment, the City acted immediately to recover as much of the stolen funds as possible and tightened cybersecurity measures and procedures. I thank Pittsburg PD for their swift action and the law enforcement agency partners that helped us throughout this process.”

The city encourages residents and partners to remain vigilant about cybersecurity threats. City leadership will continue to evolve its internal systems in response to the expanding threats of cybercrime attacks to safeguard public funds and operations.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

CalHR selects Spring Health to assume statewide employee mental health support

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Whole You, Powered by Spring Health, extends personalized mental health care to more than 245,000 California state employees across 153 departments

By Kristina Piersanti, 5W PR for Spring Health

SACRAMENTO, Calif., — California’s firefighters, police officers, parks departments, correctional staff and many others spend their careers keeping communities safe and helping people through their worst days. Nationally, first responders develop PTSD at up to ten times the rate of the general population, according to a 2025 meta-analysis published in Clinical Psychology Review[1]. It’s a toll that builds quietly over the routine weight of emergency response and is compounded during high-intensity stretches like fire season.

The California Department of Human Resources (CalHR) is now providing the state’s employees and their families access to Whole You, Powered by Spring Health, CalHR’s new Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offering confidential, personalized support for care, crisis needs, work-life challenges, and everyday wellbeing. A lifelong mental health platform, Spring Health will deliver mental health care to more than 245,000 California state employees across 153 departments, and their eligible family members.

First responders receive the most extensive tier of care under the new program, delivered by trauma-informed providers with direct experience in first responder roles. Support staff within CalFire, the California Highway Patrol and the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation also receive an elevated level of support, reflecting the higher-stress nature of their roles. The State’s 153,000 administrative or desk-based staff will also receive support under the new program.

CalHR was drawn to Spring Health’s proven outcomes, not just improved access. According to research published in OJPHI and JAMA Network Open, 92% of members reliably improve or recover from depression or anxiety, and members recover 5.9 weeks faster than the leading competitor, with appointments available in less than two days on average, compared to a 48-day average with traditional EAPs.

“First responders put themselves in harm’s way over and over again to protect the communities they serve. That takes a toll not just on them, but on their families too,” said George Michaels, Chief Revenue Officer at Spring Health. “Partnering with CalHR to support more than 245,000 state employees is exactly the kind of large-scale, public-sector commitment we built Spring Health to deliver on, and we’re honored to help deliver the mental health support they and their families deserve.”

“When people go to work, they shouldn’t have to leave their hearts at home,” said Shannon MacGregor, Statewide Employee Assistance Program Manager at the California Department of Human Resources. “Our first responders carry things most of us never have to. Whole You is our commitment that when they need support, it’s there — fast, confidential and built around what they’ve actually experienced.”

Whole You, Powered by Spring Health, is available now to California state employees and their eligible dependents through their department’s benefits resources. For more information on Spring Health’s lifelong mental health platform, visit our webpage.

About Spring Health

Spring Health is a global mental health company built on one AI-native platform so care follows individuals across every job, move, health plan, and life stage. Independently validated by JAMA Network Open and the Validation Institute, with 92% of members reliably improved or recovered from depression or anxiety and employers seeing a 52% reduction in total mental health claims costs, Spring Health provides personalized lifelong mental health support across self-guided tools, coaching, therapy, medication management, and specialty care. More than 170 million people worldwide have access to Spring Health, which is trusted by leading employers, health plans, and channel partners, including Highmark, Target, The Coca-Cola Company, BlackRock, Microsoft, Pfizer, and Wawa.

[1] Arena, A.F., Gregory, M., Collins, D.A.J., Vilus, B., Bryant, R., Harvey, S.B., & Deady, M. (2025). Global PTSD prevalence among active first responders and trends over recent years: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Clinical Psychology Review, 120, 102622.

 

 

Help ensure fairness in property taxes – join the Contra Costa County Assessment Appeals Board

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By Laura Cassell, Assessment Appeals Board Secretary

(Martinez, CA) — Are you an experienced real estate, appraisal, accounting, or legal professional looking for a meaningful way to give back? The Contra Costa County Assessment Appeals Board is seeking qualified individuals to serve as board members and help ensure property tax assessments are fair, accurate, and impartial.

As a board member, you’ll hear and decide property tax assessment appeals, playing an important role in protecting the integrity of the County’s property tax system while serving the community.

Board Member Compensation

Board members receive:

  • $200 for a half-day meeting
  • $300 for a full-day meeting
  • $400 for each additional consecutive meeting day
  • Mileage reimbursement

Meeting Schedule

Meetings are typically held Thursdays at 9:00 a.m., except the first Thursday of each month. The Board recesses during May and June while the Assessor closes the assessment roll. Because many appeals are resolved through negotiations or withdrawals before a hearing, some scheduled meetings may be canceled.

Who Can Apply?

Applicants do not need to live in Contra Costa County or represent the district in which they reside.
Qualified candidates must have at least five years of professional experience in California in one of the following fields:

  • Certified Public Accountant or Public Accountant
  • Licensed Real Estate Broker
  • Attorney
  • Property Appraiser accredited by a nationally recognized professional organization
  • Property Appraiser certified by the California Office of Real Estate Appraisers or the State Board of Equalization

Applicants must submit documentation verifying their qualifying experience with their application to the Clerk of the Board. Individuals who have worked in a county assessor’s office within the past three years are not eligible to serve.

Ready to Make a Difference?

If you’re committed to public service and bringing your professional expertise to an important community role, we encourage you to apply. Interested individuals may apply online application link, request an application by emailing the Clerk of the Board at clerkoftheboard@cob.cccoounty.us, or visit the Clerk of the Board office at:

County Administration Building, 1025 Escobar Street, 1st Floor Martinez.

For more information about the application process, call the Clerk of the Board at (925) 655-2000. Additional information is available through the California State Board of Equalization.

For more information about the Appeals Board visit Assessment Appeals | Contra Costa County, CA Official Website.

City of Pittsburg to celebrate Central Harbor Park Grand Reopening and Kickoff Party July 26

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Over $3.5 million in improvements completed

By Allen D. Payton

The City of Pittsburg invites the community to celebrate the grand reopening of Central Harbor Park with a family-friendly kickoff party on Sunday, July 26, 2026, from 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Central Harbor Park officially reopened to the public on July 1, 2026. The improvements include:

  • New docks and berths — Increasing marina capacity and access.
  • Expanded restrooms, parking and green space — Creating a more welcoming experience for visitors and families.
  • Shoreline stabilization and ADA pathways — Enhancing resilience and accessibility for all.
  • Modernized event facilities — Encouraging year-round gatherings and civic pride.

With over $3.5 million in Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta Conservancy funding, and after years of planning and construction, Pittsburg’s premier waterfront event space is ready for fishing, sunset walks, gatherings and everyday enjoyment of the Delta.

The improvements were made possible with funding support from the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta Conservancy, a California state agency whose grant funding helped bring this park to life, and the City of Pittsburg’s Waterfront Fund. The City’s Waterfront Fund is funded by lease revenues generated by users of Pittsburg’s granted submerged tidelands.  This is a reinvestment of locally generated non-tax dollars from the private sector, and so far, has totaled over $500,000.

Video screenshots source: City of Pittsburg

Guests will enjoy an evening of community activities along Pittsburg’s beautiful waterfront, including a s’mores experience, fishing demonstration, Public Safety Meet & Greet, DJ, refreshments and a preview of the park’s new event space.

The celebration provides residents and visitors with an opportunity to explore the reopened park, connect with neighbors and local public safety personnel, and learn more about the recreational and event amenities available at Central Harbor Park.

WHAT: Central Harbor Park Grand Reopening and Kickoff Party

WHEN: Sunday, July 26, 2026, 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

WHERE: Central Harbor Park, Cutter Avenue off Marina Blvd., Downtown Pittsburg

  • S’mores bar – enjoy classic treats with a waterfront view.
  • Fishing demonstration – learn from local experts.
  • Preview of the new event space – see the upgraded facilities and seating areas.
  • Public Safety Meet & Greet – meet local law enforcement and emergency services.
  • Live DJ – for a festive evening atmosphere.
  • Refreshments – provided throughout the event.

The event is free and open to the public. Families and community members of all ages are encouraged to attend.

Photos: City of Pittsburg

Boat Launch and Fish Cleaning Station Now Open

The public launch ramps are open and the City is happy to bring with it new restrooms and a fish cleaning station, now open daily from 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Whether you’re heading out early for a day on the water or wrapping up your evening catch, these launch ramp amenities are available to support your experience.

The Pittsburg Marina harbor and fuel dock is closed on Sundays. For questions contact the Marina Office at (925) 439-4958 or email marina@pittsburgca.gov.

Background

In 2021 and 2022, City staff conducted outreach to local residents, users of the boat launch, and City waterfront event-goers to determine the community’s priorities for the Central Harbor Park and boat launch area.  These facilities, while aged, are well loved and full of recreators every weekend and often throughout the week.  Via online and in-person surveys, a town hall style community meeting at the park, and many interviews at the facility, staff gathered community input resulting in three major observations:

1) The community values and enjoys the Delta access provided by Central Harbor Park and the boat launch facility. Other than youth-centered park features, the park and launch facilities provide ample opportunity to enjoy the Delta and outdoors.

2) Members of the community often feel unsafe in the project area which impacts their visit frequency.

3) Public infrastructure in the project area is old and worn down, discouraging use and dissuading people from bringing family and friends to enjoy the facilities.

On August 19, 2024, the Pittsburg City Council awarded the construction contract for the project to NTK Construction, and construction began in the fall of 2024 following the groundbreaking on Nov. 15th that year.

For more information about the Pittsburg Marina visit www.pittsburgmarina.com.

Toni Baldazo, City of Pittsburg Community Engagement Officer contributed to this report.

City of Pittsburg to hold Data Centers Virtual Community Workshop July 30

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Rendering of proposed AVAIO Digital data center in Pittsburg. Source: City of Pittsburg

By Toni Baldazo, Community Engagement Officer, City of Pittsburg

Pittsburg City staff are hosting a virtual community engagement workshop about data center development. Residents are encouraged to participate in the workshop and to submit their questions ahead of time to ensure all resident inquiries are addressed during the meeting.

The AVAIO Perseus Data Center is a proposed data center project within the Pittsburg Technology Park approved by the City Council in 2024. The project is intended to support advanced technology infrastructure, create long-term economic development opportunities and help activate strategically planned employment-generating land in Pittsburg. For more information visit Pittsburg Technology Park | City of Pittsburg.

Proposed data center in the Pittsburg Technology Park Specific Plan. Source: City of Pittsburg

The Technology Park Specific Plan envisions redevelopment of the eastern half of the former municipal Delta View Golf Course, on Golf Club Road off W. Leland Road, which is closed and currently vacant.

“After hearing from many concerned residents, it is clear we need to have a deeper conversation with our community about data center development in Pittsburg,” said Council Member Killings. “City Council has asked the City Manager and Staff to host a workshop educating residents on the City’s data center development policies, procedures and projects, and providing an opportunity for our community to receive answers to their questions.”

Pittsburg Technology Park Site Plan Concept with location of proposed data center. Source: City of Pittsburg

Pittsburg Data Centers Virtual Community Workshop

Date: Thursday, July 30

Time: 6:00 p.m.

Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81157292257

Submit Questions: datacenters@pittsburgca.gov

In addition to the Workshop, the City has updated the Data Center project webpage and is considering ongoing community engagement to ensure the public is informed on data center projects and impacts in Pittsburg. There will be an update to the City Council during the regular City Council meeting on Monday, August 3.

“Residents have raised thoughtful questions about water, energy, noise, and long-term neighborhood impacts, and the City takes them seriously,” said City Manager Darin Gale. “I appreciate the Council’s direction and look forward to supporting this engagement effort on behalf of the Council and our community.”

For those unable to attend the virtual workshop, the meeting will be recorded and posted to the City’s website for later viewing. For workshop questions, please contact datacenters@pittsburgca.gov.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.         

 

City of Martinez launches “GoMartinez” mobile app for fast, easy connection to services

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By Eve Kearney, Manager City Manager’s Office

Martinez, CA — The City of Martinez is excited to announce the launch of GoMartinez, a new mobile app designed to help residents stay connected, submit non‑emergency service requests, and access important City information all in one convenient place.

GoMartinez makes it simple for community members to report non‑urgent issues they see around town, whether it’s a damaged sign, pothole, or other maintenance need. Residents can snap a photo and send it directly to the City through the app, making the reporting process faster, easier, and more efficient.

“Our goal with GoMartinez is to give residents a quick and easy way to reach us,” said Mayor Brianne Zorn. “Whether you’re sharing a service request or exploring upcoming community events, we want this app to be another bridge between City Hall and our residents.”

In addition to service requests, GoMartinez offers:

  • Direct link to City website
  • Easy access to City Council information
  • Link for water bill payment
  • Events calendar link

Over time, the City will continue expanding GoMartinez with additional links, features, and services so residents can access even more resources right from their phones.

All Martinez residents are invited to download and start using GoMartinez beginning July 6, 2026. The app is available on both iOS and Android devices: simply search “GoMartinez” in your device’s App Store/Google Play store and download. Create an account to submit and track service tickets; tickets can be submitted anonymously.
As Martinez celebrates its 150th year, the City remains committed to offering tools that make it easier than ever for residents to engage with their local government, and looks forward to the positive impact GoMartinez will have in meeting the evolving needs of our residents and helping us provide high-quality service to our community.
Download the app at: https://app.govoutreach.com/martinezcityca/public/crm/topics.

City of Martinez to conduct virtual wildfire evacuation drill July 11

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By Eve Kearney, Martinez City Manager’s Office

The City of Martinez is continuing to take proactive steps to enhance community safety by hosting a virtual evacuation drill, on July 11, 2026, from 9:00 am to 10:00 am. This exercise will simulate the evacuation and response to a wildfire emergency.

A virtual evacuation drill is an ideal opportunity for residents to review and practice their personal and family safety plan in the event of an evacuation and ensure they are registered to receive emergency alerts.
The emergency scenario for the Unified Command exercise will be a wildland fire burning into the urban interface on the west edge of the City, north of SR-4. The virtual evacuation and emergency scenario will focus on five evacuation zones: MAR-001, MAR-002, and MAR-003.  These zones were chosen due to actual wildfire risk and wildland-urban interface (WUI).

What to Expect During the Drill

The drill will begin at 9:00 am. Live mock messages will be sent to all registered Martinez Alerts users. Messages will be clearly marked as drill-related. Residents in the three evacuation zones will receive additional messages during the drill.

There are up to three ways residents can participate in the Virtual Evacuation Drill.

  1. Ensure expected mock messaging from Martinez Alerts is received.
  2. Residents may practice preparing to evacuate from their residence, including a list of suggestions on our website.
  3. Residents may safely leave their residence and use their identified evacuation route.

The Importance of Evacuation Drills

The City as a whole benefits from this drill, extending beyond the target neighborhoods. It serves as an instructive example for emergency response across the entire City and offers an educational and preparation opportunity for all residents. Additionally, Martinez’s first responders will use this

Drill to conduct a Unified Command exercise, practicing multi‑agency coordination as well as response and management of an emergency scenario.

For more information, visit the evacuation drill webpage at cityofmartinez.org/july11.

For day-of messaging options during the exercise, please sign up for the Martinez Alerts e-notification system at www.martinezalerts.com.

MTC/ABAG award $8 million for environmental and community projects

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McNeil Park Project. Source: City of San Pablo

$500K for San Pablo park

Grants support Plan Bay Area goals

By Metropolitan Transportation Commission

The Metropolitan Transportation Commission in June awarded $8 million to 16 Bay Area projects through the Priority Conservation Area (PCA) Grant Program. These grants support the goals of Plan Bay Area, the region’s long-range plan for housing, the economy, transportation, and the environment.

The PCA Grant Program is a key tool used by MTC and ABAG to protect and enhance natural and agricultural lands, expand public access to open space, and invest in climate resilience and community-driven environmental stewardship. The 2026 awardees reflect a diverse mix of planning, restoration, acquisition, and access projects across all nine Bay Area counties.

These 16 projects were awarded after a multi-step application and evaluation process that initially received over 50 proposals requesting nearly $36 million in funding.

  • McNeil Park (City of San Pablo) – $500,000 to transform a vacant school site into a multi-benefit community park with recreation amenities, green infrastructure, and inclusive design features.
  • Wooden Bridge Replacement Feasibility Study (City of Alameda) – $500,000 to plan replacement of a critical Bay Trail connection threatened by sea level rise and aging infrastructure, serving over 1,000 daily users.
  • Restoring Connections: Deep East Oakland Community Stewardship, Creeks, & Shoreline Access (Oakland Parks and Recreation Foundation) – $450,000 to advance community-led stewardship, outdoor learning, and improved shoreline access in urban neighborhoods.
  • Canal Boatyard Urban Park Connection (City of San Rafael) – $800,000 to plan a new shoreline park and pedestrian bridge in the Canal neighborhood, improving access to open space in an Equity Priority Community.
  • Resilient Suscol Creek: Climate-Ready Habitat Planning (Napa County RCD) – $440,000 to develop restoration designs to improve climate resilience and ecological function across approximately 100 acres of habitat.
  • Twin Peaks Promenade – Bay Area Ridge Trail Connection & Habitat Restoration (San Francisco Recreation & Park Department) – $500,000 to convert a former roadway into a multi-use trail with habitat restoration and improved Ridge Trail connectivity.
  • Fire & Flora: Resilient Foothills Initiative (Grassroots Ecology) – $210,000 to reduce wildfire risks and restore native plant communities while training volunteers and workforce participants.
  • Bay Trail SFO Gap Closure Project – Phase 1 (San Mateo County Transportation Authority) – $600,000 to advance design and environmental review for a 2.5-mile segment closing a major gap in the Bay Trail.
  • Highway 17 Wildlife & Ridge Trail Crossings and Connections (Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District) – $750,000 to reconnect wildlife habitat and close a critical gap in the Ridge Trail with new crossings and trail construction.
  • North Coyote Valley Wildlife & Trails Study (Peninsula Open Space Trust) – $250,000 to evaluate trail alignments that balance recreation access with wildlife connectivity in a regionally significant corridor.
  • Santa Clara Valley Agricultural Outreach & Awareness Campaign (UC Cooperative Extension) – $200,000 to build public support for agricultural land conservation through storytelling, education, and community engagement.
  • Farm to Market Phase 4 (Solano County Department of Resource Management) – $800,000 to improve multimodal access to agricultural areas, supporting local farms and active transportation options.
  • South Fork Gualala River Acquisition (Western Rivers Conservancy with Kashia Band of Pomo Indians) – $750,000 to protect 298 acres of river corridor and redwood forest, supporting habitat restoration and Tribal cultural uses.
  • Petaluma River Park (Petaluma River Park Foundation) – $550,000 to advance design and construction of a new riverfront park featuring habitat restoration and expanded recreational access.
  • Osprey Hill Ranch (Sonoma Land Trust) – $450,000 to plan a public trail network across a 365-acre coastal property while protecting sensitive natural and cultural resources.
  • Improving Habitat Quality and Bike/Ped Connectivity on PCA Creeks (City of Sonoma with Sonoma Ecology Center) – $250,000 to enhance creek ecosystems while improving regional trail safety and connectivity.

The PCA Grant Program—funded through the One Bay Area Grant (OBAG) program and administered by the San Francisco Estuary Partnership—has supported more than 85 projects and invested over $46 million in conservation and access improvements across the region since its inception in 2013.