Contra Costa Herald

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

Transit tax ballot measure volunteer signature gathering effort collects 4th of 186,000 goal

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Multiple Bay Area transit agencies would benefit from the five-county sales tax measure. Photo: MTC. Graphics source: Connect Bay Area

Paid effort also working before June 6th deadline in 5 Bay Area counties

By Allen D. Payton

On Wednesday, April 22nd, volunteer transit advocates celebrated gathering 46,300 signatures for the regional transit sales tax funding measure to qualify it for the November ballot.

“’As of today, we’ve surpassed 46,300,’ wrote advocate Cyrus Hall in a celebratory email, according to a report by StreetsBlog SF. The goal was that by now they would ‘collect 45,000 grassroots signatures for Connect Bay Area by today.’”

While the effort must gather a total of the required 186,000 valid signatures of registered voters in the five Bay Area counties of  Contra Costa, Alameda, San Francisco, San Mateo and Santa Clara by June 6, the Connect Bay Area has raised more than $3 million to fund the paid-for effort.

“Insiders told Streetsblog that the larger, paid signature-gathering campaign is also on track, although its exact tabulations are a guarded secret,” the report added.

As previously reported, the proposed half-cent sales tax increase in four of the counties and one cent in San Francisco will last for 14 year duration and would generate about $1 billion per year.

Revenue from the tax measure will benefit multiple transit agencies in the region including Tri Delta Transit, County Connection and WestCat, as well as AC Transit and BART which serve Contra Costa County residents.

Following is a county-by-county breakdown of the County Specific Dollars. It does not include money going to BART, Muni, AC Transit and Caltrain, or to regional improvements that aren’t designated by county, such as coordinated fare programs and accessibility improvements:

County Agencies:

  • Contra Costa Transportation Authority (2.5%, $26.51M)
  • Alameda County Transportation Commission (1%, $10.26M)
  • San Mateo County Transit District (4.7%, $50M)
  • Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (25.1%, $264.07M)

Small Operators:

  • Contra Costa County small operators (1.5%, $15.75M)
  • Alameda County small operators (0.5%, $5.25M)
  • SF Bay Ferry (0.7%, $7M)
  • Golden Gate Transit (0.1%, $1M)

Without new and sustainable operations funding, the BART Board could shut down two of its five lines, close as many as 15 stations, and reduce service from 4,500 trains per week to just 500, with trains running only hourly and no weekend service. (See related article AH) related article CCH)

Contra Costa Judicial Candidates Forum in Pleasant Hill April 30

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Hosted by Contra Costa County Bar Association & League of Women Voters of the Diablo Valley

Meet Judge Jesse Hsieh and Stanislaus County Deputy District Attorney Valery Polyakov 

By Jody Iorns, Executive Director, Contra Costa County Bar Association

PLEASANT HILL, CA — The Contra Costa County Bar Association (CCCBA) and the League of Women Voters of the Diablo Valley are pleased to invite the public to a free Judicial Candidate Forum on Thursday, April 30, 2026, from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM at the Performing Arts Center at Diablo Valley College, 321 Golf Club Road, Pleasant Hill.

The forum will feature the two candidates vying for Position Q on the Contra Costa County Superior Court: Judge Jesse Hsieh (jesseforjudge2026.com) and Valery Polyakov, a Deputy District Attorney in Stanislaus County (polyakov4judge.com). This forum is an important opportunity for community members to hear directly from both candidates on their qualifications, judicial philosophy, and vision for the court.

Why This Forum Matters: A Rare Opportunity for Voters

Contested judicial elections are exceptionally rare in California. Under state law, incumbent judges who face no opposition do not appear on the ballot at all — meaning most voters never have the chance to weigh in on who sits on their local bench. When a judicial seat is contested, as it is here, it represents a unique and significant moment in our democracy. The June 2026 primary will give Contra Costa County voters a direct voice in who fills Position Q on their Superior Court — a responsibility that deserves informed participation. This forum is one of the only public opportunities to hear both candidates speak before Election Day.

The event is open to all members of the public. Admission is free. While walk-ins are welcome, early registration is encouraged to help with planning. Members of the public are invited to reserve their seats online at:

Register Here — CCCBA Event Page

About the Hosts

The Contra Costa County Bar Association (CCCBA) empowers its attorney members to deliver outstanding legal service while connecting members of the public to valuable legal resources and assistance.

The League of Women Voters of the Diablo Valley is a nonpartisan, civic organization that encourages informed and active participation in government and influences public policy through education and advocacy.

Contra Costa County Assistant Auditor Controller Peter Karumbi runs for Auditor Controller

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Source: Karumbi for Auditor-Controller campaign

The dedicated public servant and CPA with an MBA offers 14 years of experienced financial leadership, integrity

By Allen D. Payton

For more than 14 years, Peter Karumbi has proudly served the people of Contra Costa County through his work in the Auditor‑Controller’s Office. His career began as an entry‑level Accountant I, and through hard work, integrity and a deep commitment to public service, Karumbi advanced to his current role as Assistant Auditor‑Controller.

With current Auditor-Controller Joanne Bohren not running for election after being appointed to the position last year, Karumbi is seeking the position with her support.

He is committed to:

  • Protecting the fiscal integrity of the County’s financial records;
  • Ensuring compliance with the California Constitution, state codes and Board of Supervisors directives;
  • Providing accurate, timely financial information to the public and county partners; and
  • Supporting county departments, employees, special districts and regional agencies with professionalism and respect.

Karumbi is also endorsed by retired Contra Costa County Auditor-Controller Robert Campbell, Retired Assistant County Auditor-Controller Harjit Nahal and California State Treasurer Fiona Ma.

His journey reflects not only professional growth but also a genuine dedication to strengthening the financial foundation of our county.

“I understand the responsibility that comes with managing public resources, and I have devoted my career to ensuring accuracy, transparency and accountability in county financial operations,” Karumbi said.  “I understand the responsibilities of this office because I’ve spent my career performing them.”

He also has experience in the private sector having worked for four-and-a-half years in Accounts Payable for Ross Stores, Inc. in Pleasanton.

Karumbi earned the designation of Certified Public Accountant in 2015 and earned a Master’s of Business Administration in 2013 from Cal State East Bay’s School of Business & Economics.

The first-time candidate for public office is married to Margaret Ng’ang’a and they have four daughters.

For more information about Karumbi and his campaign visit his LinkedIn profile and his website at karumbiforauditor.com. The election is Tuesday, June 2nd.

Note: Herald publisher Allen Payton is a paid consultant for the Karumbi campaign.

Initiative signature gathering begins for Senior Housing Transit Village near Walnut Creek BART

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Ygnacio Center is the location for the proposed Hall Equities Group’s Walnut Creek Senior Housing Transit Village with mixed-use retail project. Map source: Ygnacio Center CBRE Properties.

Initiative would update zoning to permit delivery of over 200 units and mixed-use retail

Learn more during community meeting 27th

By Adam Alberti, Singer Media

Walnut Creek, CA – Hall Equities Group, a Walnut Creek-based real estate investment company, today announced they’ve launched a signature gathering effort to qualify an initiative for the November 2026 ballot to allow for development of much needed senior housing and community-serving retail to Downtown Walnut Creek.

The Walnut Creek Senior Housing Transit Village Initiative aims to update zoning in Downtown Walnut Creek to facilitate delivery of over 200 units of senior housing and mixed-use retail to a 2.4-acre site located at the northeast corner of North California Boulevard and Ygnacio Valley Road, across the street from the Walnut Creek BART station.

“We’re excited about the opportunity to help address the clear and growing need for senior housing in Walnut Creek,” said Mark Hall, Chairman of the Hall Equities Group Board. “This initiative reflects our community’s evolving needs by giving seniors the option to remain close to friends, family, healthcare and cultural opportunities, while creating an accessible mixed-use center that serves both seniors and the broader Walnut Creek community.”

The initiative prioritizes high-quality senior housing near BART, enabling residents to easily access regional destinations, connect to the Downtown Trolley system and walk to shopping, dining, entertainment and everyday services. By concentrating housing near public transit, the proposal supports mobility, independence, health and wellness for seniors while reducing vehicle traffic.

The initiative also paves the way for a vibrant, mixed-use center that supports community-serving shopping, dining, entertainment and other convenient services. The center will serve senior residents, downtown visitors, nearby businesses and future development proposed by the city, adding valuable evening and weekend activity that strengthens the local economy.

The Walnut Creek Senior Housing Transit Village aligns with the city’s goals to create a range of housing opportunities for seniors, mixed-use development, healthy community design and growth near transit, all while supporting a diverse downtown economy.

Signature gathering is now underway to place the initiative on the November 2026 ballot.

When asked for renderings of the project, Haley Murphy of Singer Associates, which is running the campaign responded, “The Proponents are still in the signature gathering process and developing plans for the site, so there are not yet renderings to share. The current 2.4-acre site is zoned for ‘office-only’, so the campaign committee is planning to go to the voters directly to establish a new zoning district called ‘Mixed Use – Residential Senior & Commercial,’ to allow for senior housing and retail to be built.”

She was also asked for the specific location and if it will be a conversion of existing space at the Ygnacio Center Office Complex which Hall Equities Group acquired last year or in an existing landscaped area on Northern California Blvd. Murphy shared that the location is the landscaped area “but also includes the office buildings on the corner.”

Asked why they chose the initiative process instead of submitting the project through the normal city approval process Murphy responded, “The initiative process allows us to ask the voters directly, which we are doing. The voters get to decide directly if they agree with the concept. If they do, we will prepare and submit a project application that will follow the normal City approval process for the site considering the base zoning.  We think this will be a more certain, efficient and quicker process.”

Community Meetings April 27

To learn more about the Walnut Creek Senior Housing Transit Village Initiative visit www.wcseniorhousing.com or attend a community meeting.

DATE: Monday, April 27, 2026

TIME: 10 AM–12 PM

LOCATION: Rossmoor – Hillside Clubhouse (Diablo Room) – Located at 3400 Golden Rain Road, Walnut Creek

The events are drop-in. Light bites and refreshments will be provided.

About Hall Equities Group

Hall Equities Group (HEG) is a private, full-service real estate investment, development, and property management company representing the interests of select private investors and company-sponsored group investment entities. Hall Equities Group is a portfolio company of Walnut Creek, California based entrepreneur, Mark D. Hall, who also owns and operates affiliated company’s including, ZMC Hotels, National SportsMall Realty and COPA Innovation Laboratories.

The company was founded by Hall’s father, former Walnut Creek City Councilman Merle Hall in 1962 as a real estate brokerage business. He then renamed it to Merle D. Hall Company in 1976 and refocused on investment brokerage and property management for private investors. Mark joined Merle in 1986 and purchased 50% of the company’s stock and assumed control of operations in 1992. In 1999 Mark acquired the remaining 50% ownership of the company and renamed it to Hall Equities Group.

Ad paid for by Friends of Walnut Creek Senior Housing; Ad committee’s top funder Hall Equities Group and Affiliated Entities

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

The false and misleading case for the Measure B Sales Tax

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By Marc Joffe

On Tuesday, a Contra Costa Superior Court judge declined to expedite a lawsuit demanding changes to proponents’ ballot arguments for Measure B, the county’s proposed five-year, 0.625% sales tax increase. That decision means voters will receive a County Voter Information Guide containing false and misleading statements about the tax increase.

This is not just a problem with Measure B. And it could get worse as advocates for taxes and bond measures make increasingly aggressive claims, irrespective of the facts, and without fear of a judicial remedy.

The case, filed March 27 on behalf of two Contra Costa voters, targets both the Primary Argument in Favor of Measure B and the Rebuttal Argument to the Primary Argument Against Measure B. The respondents are the five authors of those arguments, including a sitting County Supervisor.

The legal challenge was brought under California Elections Code section 9190, which allows voters to seek a writ of mandate during a 10-day public examination period to require that ballot arguments be amended or deleted if they are “false, misleading, or inconsistent with the requirements” of the law.

The Dubious Claims

The complaint identified over a dozen specific claims in the ballot arguments alleged to be false and/or misleading. Here are three that are especially notable.

Exaggerated $1.5 Billion Loss: The argument claims that “according to the county health director, our health system will lose more than $1.5 billion over the next five years.” This appears to have been based on Board of Supervisors materials which mentioned a $300 million annual loss for the five year life of the tax.

But at the March 3 Board meeting Supervisor Candace Andersen flagged the original $300 million annual loss figure as inaccurate. The Board’s adopted Resolution No. 2026-40 was amended to project cumulative losses of approximately $239 million through 2029. The County’s own budget presentation cited a six-year cumulative figure of $509 million. This is roughly one-third the amount we will see in the voter guide.

And even the $509 million estimated loss is unlikely to materialize. With Democrats almost certain to regain control of the House (and possibly the Senate), they will be able to implement their stated intention of reversing HR1’s federal budgetary changes that impact Medi-Cal.

Further, about a quarter of the remaining estimated funding loss is attributable to scheduled reductions in federal subsidies to Disproportionate Share Hospitals (DSH) like Contra County Regional Medical Center. As we discuss on our Stop Measure B website, DSH funding cuts were first included in the 2010 Affordable Care Act and have been repeatedly postponed by Congresses controlled by both parties. It is reasonable to expect these postponements to continue through at least 2031 when the tax sunsets.

Groceries, Food, Housing, and Medical Care: The argument states “Measure B won’t increase the cost of groceries” and “It exempts food, housing, and medical care.” The petition notes that the words “food,” “groceries,” “housing,” and “medical care” appear nowhere in the Measure B ordinance’s exemptions. Hot prepared foods are subject to sales tax, as are non-food groceries. Lumber, cement, and roofing materials (items associated with housing) are taxable. Over-the-counter drugs are taxable.

90,000 People “Will” Lose Health Insurance: The argument states that “more than 90,000 people will lose health insurance” if Measure B fails (emphasis added). The word “will” makes this statement false and misleading under California election law.

Contra Costa Health staff gave supervisors a broad range of the number of beneficiaries who may lose Medi-Cal coverage due to new rules, with 90,000 being near the midpoint. These projections are estimates, contingent on future legislative and administrative decisions that have not yet been finalized. No one can say with certainty how many residents will lose coverage.

There is a further problem that the ballot argument glosses over. Even if Medi-Cal rolls shrink in Contra Costa County, it does not necessarily mean our neighbors are becoming uninsured and will flood emergency rooms. People cycle off Medi-Cal for many reasons: they move away, they obtain employer coverage, they age into Medicare, or they pass away. Proponents misleadingly conflate any reduction in Medi-Cal enrollment with people left without coverage.

Implications Beyond Measure B

Unless you read this article or the plaintiff’s court filings, you will not be aware of these inaccuracies. And that points to a serious defect in California election law.

Ballot proponents (or opponents) can make false and misleading arguments, and get away with it, because the court process usually cannot unfold quickly enough to meet the County’s aggressive timetable for editing, translating, printing, and mailing ballot guides.

To remedy this problem, process reforms are needed. Either several additional days should be added to the pre-election timetable for claims like the ones against Measure B to be heard and adjudicated. Alternatively, California should move away from printed voter guides and instead post them on the web. Not only would that provide more time to edit inaccurate arguments prior to public exposure, but taxpayers would also save money on printing and mailing costs. It would be good for the environment too!

Marc Joffe is the President of the Contra Costa Taxpayers Association.

Filing period extended until March 11 in elections for three Contra Costa County offices

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Include Assessor, Auditor-Controller and County Superintendent of Schools

By Allen D. Payton

Because the incumbent didn’t file to run for re-election in the June 2nd primary by Friday, March 6, the filing period has been extended five business days in three county-wide offices.

According to the Contra Costa County Clerk-Recorder’s Office Elections Division the deadline for filing nomination documents has been extended (to non-incumbents only) to March 11, 2026, for the following County offices: Assessor, Auditor-Controller and County Superintendent of Schools.

Candidates must obtain their documents and file between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. at 555 Escobar Street in Martinez.

For more information visit www.contracostavote.gov/elections/candidates-campaigns-measures/run-for-office, email candidate.services@vote.cccounty.us or call (925) 335-7800 and ask for Candidate Services.

Contra Costa Assessor Kramer won’t seek re-election to 9th term

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Contra Costa County Assessor Gus Kramer in 2022. Source: Contra Costa County

Announces retirement after 40 years in public office effective Dec. 2026 at end of current term

Supports Assistant County Assessor Vince Robb as his replacement

By Robin Cantu, Assessor’s Customer Services Coordinator, Contra Costa County Assessor’s Office

On Friday, March 6, 2026, Contra Costa County Assessor Gus Kramer announced he would not run for re-election to a ninth term. He first served in public office as the Martinez City Clerk when he was elected in 1986.

The announcement reads, he “will retire from his position as County Assessor in December 2026, concluding more than three decades of dedicated public service to the residents of Contra Costa County

“First elected in 1994, Kramer has been entrusted by the voters of Contra Costa County for eight consecutive terms over the past 32 years. During that time, he has overseen significant modernization and improvements within the Assessor’s Office, working to ensure that property assessments are conducted with fairness, transparency, and efficiency.

“It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve the people of Contra Costa County,” said Kramer. “I am deeply grateful to the voters who placed their trust in me eight times over the past three decades. Their confidence and support have meant a great deal to me throughout my career.”

Kramer also emphasized the contributions of several key members of his leadership team who have played an essential role in strengthening the office’s service to the public. He expressed special appreciation to Vince Robb, Assistant County Assessor; Peter Yu, Assistant County Assessor; and Robin Cantu, Assessor’s Customer Services Coordinator, for their outstanding dedication and leadership.

“Vince Robb and Peter Yu have been exceptional partners in managing the complex responsibilities of the Assessor’s Office, bringing professionalism, expertise, and a strong commitment to public service every day,” Kramer said. “Robin Cantu has also been instrumental in ensuring that our office maintains a high level of responsiveness and service for the public.”

Kramer noted that their leadership—along with the dedication of the entire Assessor’s Office staff—has helped bring the efficiency, professionalism, and public service of the office to an all-time high level.

“I want to thank every member of the Assessor’s Office, past and present, who has worked so hard to serve the residents of Contra Costa County,” Kramer added. “Together we have worked to make the business of property value assessment as simple, transparent, and accessible as possible for the public.”

As he prepares for retirement, Kramer said he is proud of what the office has accomplished and grateful for the opportunity to serve the community.

“Public service has been a privilege, and I will always be thankful for the trust placed in me by the people of Contra Costa County,” Kramer said.

Supports Assistant County Assessor Vince Robb

Asked on Friday if he had groomed someone to take his place, Kramer said, “The Assistant County Assessor, Vince Robb, in my office is a good choice. Nobody has experience or credentials like Vince. He has 20 years’ experience in the Assessor’s Office.  The other two have never appraised a single property.”

He was referring to Nick Spinner, whose ballot designation is Senior Systems Engineer in the Contra Costa Elections Division list of candidates for the June 2nd primary election, and Kismat Kathrani, whose designation is Software Technology Entrepreneur.

About Kramer

In the bio on his campaign website which is still up as of Saturday, March 7th, Kramer wrote, “I was born in Contra Costa and raised in East County. My high school was Pacifica High in West Pittsburg (Go Spartans!) and I graduated in 1968.  Back then the area was called West Pittsburg, but now it is called Bay Point. It was a small high school but we played hard in local sports and competed well against larger central county schools.  It closed in 1976 and is now Riverview Middle School on Pacifica Ave. Having a high school of our own, rather than sending kids to Concord or Pittsburg, was a real anchor for the community.

“After high school I attended DVC for a year, then went to mortuary school in San Francisco. Working in mortuary and funeral services is a very specific calling. It is not for everyone, but for those that answer the call it can be fulfilling. It taught me a deep respect for life, caring for the living, and humbleness in the face of the awesome hereafter. Working as an embalmer introduced me to the CC Coroner’s office, and I worked there for several years.  It might be how I keep my sense of humor when things are gloomy.  I continued my education at USF studying public administration at night, while I worked for the county. This began my career in public service.

“I settled and raised my family in Martinez, the County Seat of Contra Costa.  the adopted home town of environmentalist John Muir and the birthplace of baseball hero Joe DiMaggio.  I still live there today.

“Bitten is a strong word for it, so maybe I was nipped by the political bug in the mid-80s in Martinez.  I wanted to be involved in my community, give back, and continue to serve.  I ran for City Clerk and won. As clerk I was not voting on issues like the city council, but I was part of the process and aware of the machinations of local government.  As city clerk I donated my monthly salary to provide scholarships to local students. Education helped my rise up and build a foundation, and I wanted to give back to the community rather than take from it.”

Official County Bio

According to his official 2022 bio on the Contra Costa County website, “Gus grew up in Bay Point, California, and is a graduate of the San Francisco College of Mortuary Science and the University of San Francisco.

His public career in Contra Costa County began in 1974. Kramer embarked on his tenure with the County at the Contra Costa County Sheriff Coroner’s Office, later moving to the Contra Costa County Probation Department, and finally to the Contra Costa County Public Works Department until 1994 when he was elected to the position of County Assessor. In addition to his service to Contra Costa County and its residents, Kramer was also elected to the position of Martinez City Clerk in 1986.

“As County Assessor, Kramer has overseen remarkable improvements to streamline the operations of his office, eliminate backlogs, and achieve higher levels of public service, all while operating substantially under budget.

“The State Board of Equalization acknowledged his office as one of the best managed assessor’s operations in California. Gus Kramer is a member of the California Assessors’ Association and the International Right of Way Association and has more than 43 years as a licensed real estate salesperson.”

He now has been a licensed real estate agent for 47 years, since 1979, Kramer said.

During his work for the County Public Works Department real estate division he shared, “I valued commercial and residential real estate to be purchased for public works projects.”

Future Plans

Asked what his plans are for the future, Kramer exclaimed with a laugh, “I gotta find something to do!”

Seriously, he said he will find something where he can apply his skills, knowledge and experience, probably in real estate.

BART Board votes 8-1 to close up to 15 stations if proposed tax measure fails

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The BART Board voted to close four stations in Contra Costa County if the proposed Nov. sales tax measure fails. Source: BART

Contra Costa’s 4 representatives vote to adopt Alternative Service Plan to balance budget including 1,170 employee layoffs

Ridership still down 50% post-COVID

By Allen D. Payton

On Thursday, Feb. 26, 2026, the BART Board of Directors, on vote of 8-1, adopted an Alternative Service Plan outlining specific budget balancing details to solve a $376M deficit for the next fiscal year if no new funds become available to BART. According to a District press release, BART is facing a structural deficit of $350M to $400M because ridership is still down 50% compared to pre-pandemic levels and BART’s current funding model relies heavily on passenger fares.

As previously reported by the Herald, the stations on the list for potential Phase 1 closure in January 2027 include the 10 lowest ridership stations: North Concord, Orinda, Pittsburg Center, Oakland International Airport, West Dublin/Pleasanton, Castro Valley, San Bruno, South Hayward, South San Francisco and Warm Springs/South Fremont.

Phase 2 Closures Include Pittsburg/Bay Point and Antioch Stations

The Phase 2 – July 2027 Segment Closure Scenario, Contingent on Phase 1 implementation, would result in a 70% reduction in train hours and 25% reduction in system miles; Segment closures would stop service on most system segments opened after 1976: Yellow line service would end at Concord, shuttering the Pittsburg/Bay Point and Antioch Stations; Orange line service would end at Bay Fair,; Blue line service would be discontinued shuttering the West Dublin/Pleasanton Station; Most stations south of Daly City would be closed except for direct service to SFO would continue for revenue retention; Service continues to Milpitas and Berryessa due to terms of BART/VTA agreements.

Based on Proposed Transit Tax Measure Failing

The plan is based on the assumption a sales tax increase measure proposed for the November ballot in five Bay Area counties fails. As previously reported, voters would be asked to consider a one-half sales tax increase in Contra Costa, Alameda, San Mateo and Santa Clara counties and a one-cent sales tax increase in San Francisco County. The 14-year regional transportation sales tax would generate approximately $980 million annually with 60 percent dedicated to preserving service on BART, Muni, Caltrain and AC Transit, as well as San Francisco Bay Ferry and smaller transit agencies providing service in the five counties to keep buses, trains and ferries moving, including WestCat, County Connection and Tri Delta Transit. About one-third of the revenue would go to Contra Costa Transportation Authority, Santa Clara VTA, SamTrans and the Alameda County Transportation Commission, with flexibility to use funds for transit capital, operations, or road paving projects on roads with regular bus service.

Also, as previously reported, an effort is underway to gather signatures to place the measure on the ballot. The sales tax increase would be in addition to the half-cent sales tax for BART operations in Contra Costa, Alameda and San Francisco counties in place since the 1960’s.

Motion and Vote Details

Following public comments and discussion among the Board members a vote was taken on the following motion: The Board adopts the attached Resolution “In the Matter of Initially Approving an Alternative Service Plan to Take Effect January 2027 in the Event the Connect Bay Area Measure Fails to Receive Voter Approval at the Statewide General Election on November 3, 2026 and BART is Unable to Secure Other Revenue Sources.”

The motion was made by District 4 Director Robert Raburn, seconded by District 1 Director Matt Rinn, and passed on a vote of 8-1 with the additional support of District 7 Director Victor Flores, District 2 Director Mark Foley, District 3 Director Barnali Gosh, District 8 Director Janice Li, Board Vice President and District 9 Director Edward Wright and Board President and District 5 Director Melissa Hernandez.

District 6 Director Liz Ames was the only member of the Board of Directors to vote “No”.

Rinn represents portions of Central Contra Costa County, all of Lamorinda and most of the San Ramon Valley, Foley represents portions of Central County and all of East County, Gosh represents all of West County and Hernandez represents portions of San Ramon.

Approved Plan Details

The plan includes specific cuts and financial strategies needed to balance both the FY27 (July 1, 2026-June 30, 2027) and FY28 (July 1, 2027-June 30, 2028) budgets. The plan includes service cuts, station closures, fare increases, a 40% reduction in system support services, laying off 1,170 employees and a series of deferrals and one-time resources. The plan does not name specific stations to be closed and makes clear the BART Board will be responsible for all decisions on station closures. You can read the Alternative Service Plan resolution, resolution attachment and presentation to the BART Board.

BART has already made budget cuts across all departments and instituted a series of cost controls, including rightsizing service, labor savings, operational efficiencies, and reducing BART’s office space footprint. At the same time, BART has also worked to increase revenue by installing new fare gates, leasing out BART parking lots, and offering new fare products such as Clipper BayPass. View a detailed list of cost savings implement by BART at bart.gov/fiscalcliff.

Alternative Service Plan Details

To take place in January 2027:

  • 3-line service (Yellow, Blue, and Orange line service only, with limited peak service in only the peak commute direction on the Red and Green lines).
  • 30-minute frequencies on every line.
  • Closing at 9 pm seven days a week.
  • This service plan represents a 63% reduction in train hours.
  • 30% fare and parking fee increases (the estimated average fare would increase from $4.98 to $6.38).
  • Target approximately $30M in savings over 6 months from non-service budget reductions to fleet and non-fleet maintenance, police, cleaning, and administrative support functions.
  • Continue deferrals of priority capital allocations and retiree medical contributions.
  • Balance remainder of FY27 with one-time resources and financial deferrals.

Following the January 2027 cuts, staff will continuously assess ridership and revenue impacts and the performance of all District functions to determine if further reductions can be safely and legally implemented.

To take place in July 2027 if feasibly safe:

  • Target over $175M in annual cost reductions through a cumulative 70% reduction in service hours:
  • Maintain 3-line service, 30-minute frequencies on each line, closing at 9pm.
  • Close up to 15 stations and/or up to 25% of system track miles.
  • The BART Board will be responsible for all decisions on station or line segment closures.
  • Increase fares and parking fees up to a cumulative 50%. The estimated average fare would increase to $7.26.
  • Target annual operating expense savings of more than a cumulative $130M from non-service budget reductions to fleet and non-fleet maintenance, police, cleaning, and administrative support functions.
  • Continue to defer retiree health contributions; defer most remaining capital allocations.

Contingency:

  • If at any point it is determined BART can’t safely or legally operate with available resources, stop passenger service.
  • Use existing District tax revenues to secure system assets.
  • Work to determine system’s future.

Use of the State Loan  

BART can’t use state loan money to avoid station closures and service cuts if no new revenue becomes available because without new revenue, there is no way to pay the loan back. The state loan primarily helps with cash flow if a November 2026 transit funding measure is successful. It is a bridge loan that gives BART reassurances money will be available to continue to deliver the best service possible until the sales tax dollars from the successful ballot measure become available for BART’s use. This is projected to happen in July 2027 but could take longer. If a funding measure succeeds, BART will use $97M in loan funds to help balance the FY27 budget.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

 

Oakley woman announces third run for Congress in District 10

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Katherine Piccinini will again take on incumbent Mark DeSaulnier with campaign theme, “Putting the People First”

Longtime Oakley resident Katherine Piccinini announced she has officially filed to run for Congress in District 10 — “bringing a proven record of community leadership, public service and results.” Although Piccinini lives in the portion of Oakley now in the new District 9 following the passage of Prop. 50 last November, just outside of District 10, when asked about her decision to run in the neighboring congressional district Piccinini said, “I am running in Congressional District 10 as I did in 2024. District 10 is my base and my donors are there. So are my friends and family. District 10 it is!!”

However, candidates for and Members of Congress aren’t required to live in the district they represent, just the same state, as Congressman John Garamendi lived just outside the district he represented for several years.

Her campaign announcement continues, “Coming from a law enforcement family, Katherine believes in honoring those who serve — police, firefighters, military, veterans and first responders — while keeping communities safe and accountable. Her priorities include protecting children, supporting parents, honoring farmers, securing borders and ensuring opportunity for every hardworking American.

“She believes government must work for people — not special interests — and that transparency, accountability, and common sense must replace division and dysfunction. Her campaign is rooted in the belief that Americans deserve clean air, safe food, pure water, safe communities, affordable living, fiscal responsibility, free speech, and a government that listens.  Putting the People First has been her heart since 2022.

“A mother of four and grandmother of five, Piccinini knows firsthand the challenges families face. In 2022, she launched a grassroots write-in campaign that earned over 1,600 votes in just 20 days — the strongest Congressional write-in performance in Northern California in over a decade. In 2024, running on the ballot, she received more than 122,000 votes, the highest total for any non-incumbent congressional candidate in the region.

“Piccinini has served as President of East Contra Costa Republican Women, helped found the Eastern Contra Costa Republican Assembly, and served on multiple county and state party leadership boards. More importantly, she has spent years listening to constituents, supporting community organizations, and standing up for working families.

“Piccinini is running to restore trust in leadership, protect freedoms, and ensure future generations inherit a nation of opportunity, security, and hope for the American Dream once more.

“She pledges to be your voice in Washington — and she wants to hear from you. Together, we can stand as neighbors, not partisans, united in one mission: Putting the People First.

“Contact Katherine Piccinini to share your priorities or support her campaign at piccinini4congress@gmail.com.”

New CD10 Map. Source: Wikipedia

The new District 10 includes most of Contra Costa County, except for Pittsburg, Antioch, Bethel Island, most of West County and portions of Oakley. (See District Map here, here or here) According to Wikipedia, the ethnicity is 47.7% White, 22.2% Asian ,18.3% Hispanic, 6.1% Two or more races, 4.6% Black and 1.2% other and Median household annual income is $151,546.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

CCWD Division 2 Director Burgh to step down March 31st

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CCWD Division 2 Director John Burgh will step down after 22 years on March 31, 2026. Photo: CCWD

After representing Central County communities for 22 years on Board

“CCWD is on a solid path investing in the next generation of water service with a collaborative Board and innovative staff.” – Director Burgh

By Nicola McCluney, Management Assistant, Public Affairs, Contra Costa Water District

Concord – During the Board meeting on February 18, Contra Costa Water District’s Board Director, John A. Burgh, announced that after 22 years representing the community on water issues, he will step down from the Board effective March 31, 2026.

Director Burgh was appointed to the Contra Costa Water District (CCWD) Board of Directors in 2004. He represents Division 2, which includes Pleasant Hill, Martinez, Port Costa and a portion of Concord. During his 22-year tenure, he served on the Public Information & Conservation, Operations & Engineering, Finance and Retirement & OPEB Joint Advisory Committees.

Director Burgh’s 42-year professional career, working as an engineer on water and wastewater projects throughout the world, gave him a unique perspective joining the CCWD Board.  His technical expertise translated to thoughtful policy decisions ensuring CCWD makes sound investments in critical infrastructure to the benefit of all customers, including future generations. While serving on the CCWD Board, his highest priorities have been transparency in spending public dollars, regional collaboration and smart infrastructure investments based on the best available data.

“It has been my honor to represent my neighbors on the CCWD Board for 22 years,” said Burgh. “This Board operates at the highest level of transparency and accountability. I have learned so much from each of my colleagues and always appreciated the respectful discussions, especially when we had differing points of view.”

When asked about his decision to step down from the board, Burgh responded, “While a tough decision, CCWD is on a solid path investing in the next generation of water service with a collaborative Board and innovative staff. For my own personal reasons, this felt like the right time for me to step down and provide an opening for the next generation of water policy leaders.”

According to his bio on the CCWD website, Burgh is a retired engineer who has worked on water and wastewater projects throughout the world. He has a total of 42 years of experience in the administration, project management and design of public works projects.

For the last 30 years of his career, he worked for an environmental engineering consulting firm, where he retired as vice president.

Burgh holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Notre Dame and a master’s degree in management from the University of New Mexico. He is a registered civil engineer in California and an Air Force veteran.

He is a past President of the Contra Costa County Historical Society. A resident of Concord for over 35 years, he is a member of the Pleasant Hill Rotary Club and is a volunteer driver for Meals on Wheels, delivering meals to shut-in senior citizens in the area.

Director Burgh’s last day is March 31, and the Board will need to decide to fill the vacancy for Division 2 by appointment or election.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.