News from Around the District  - July, 2015 returntotop
In This Issue
Committees

Candace currently sits on the following boards, commissions and committees.  


 

Click on the name to visit their webpage. 


 

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District 2 Staff
Gayle Israel
Gayle Israel
Chief of Staff
Field Representative;
San Ramon & Danville

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Jill Ray
Jill Ray
Field Representative; Canyon, Moraga & Orinda
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Lauri Byers  
Lauri Byers
Scheduler, Field Representative; Lafayette

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Jennifer Quallick
Field Representative; Alamo & part of Walnut Creek, including; Parkmead, Rossmoor & Saranap
 


District Offices

San Ramon Valley Office   

309 Diablo Road

Danville, CA  94526

 

Hours:

Monday - Friday

8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

 

Phone: (925) 957-8860

FAX: (925) 820-3785

  

Danville Office
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Lamorinda Office

  Fire Station #15

3338 Mt. Diablo Boulevard

Lafayette, CA  94549

 

Hours:

Thursdays, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.   

and by appointment, please call

 

Phone: (925) 646-6067

FAX: (925) 646-6068
 
 
Quick Links
City of Walnut Creek return5

City of Lafayette

City of Orinda

Town of Moraga

Rossmoor

San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District

Contra Costa County Fire Protection District

San Ramon Valley CERT Training

Lamorinda CERT Training

 

Secretary of State - Register to Vote 


Contra Costa County Sheriff

Contra Costa County Public Works Dept.

Contra Costa Solid Waste Authority

Mosquito and Vector Control

Contra Costa Crisis Center

Contra Costa Sanitary District

Contra Costa Water District

East Bay Regional Park District

Bay Area Air Quality Management District

California State Association of Counties

 

 

 

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Where to Go and What to Do  On the  Fourth of July

 

District 2 and its neighboring cities are gearing up for an exciting Independence Day featuring parades, concerts, fireworks, and fun for the entire family!

 

Danville

Danville's annual 4th of July Parade will last from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and will run from the corner of Hartz Avenue and Railroad Avenue down Hartz and San Ramon Valley Boulevard, ending at the corner of San Ramon Valley Blvd and Sycamore Valley Road. For more information, click here.

 

Orinda

Orinda's festivities include the annual parade, pancake breakfast, flag raising ceremony, fun run, live music, food, games, and booths in the park. To learn more, click here.

 

Moraga

Moraga's celebration at the Moraga Commons Park features fun runs, a pancake breakfast, booths, games, a magic show, and various parades. Fireworks begin at around 9:30 p.m. For more information, click here.

 

San Ramon

San Ramon will be having a retro beach party concert at the Central Park Amphitheater from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The event features the Swinging Blue Stars and the California Beach Boys and includes kids' activities. Bring beach chairs and a picnic. Admission is free. For more information, click here.

 

Walnut Creek

The Walnut Creek Concert Band will be playing patriotic songs at Civic Park from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Bring a picnic and a blanket. For more information, click here

 

Besides the various celebrations happening in District 2, these neighboring cities also will be having fireworks shows and other festivities.


 

Pleasant Hill

Pleasant Hill's annual fireworks show takes place at College Park High School and begins at 9:10 p.m. Live music is provided by Public Eye and will start at 7:15 p.m.  Cold Stone and The Slow Hand BBQ Restaurant will be serving delicious food beginning at 6:30 p.m. All expenses for the festivities are paid by contributions from within the community. To donate or learn more about the celebration, including tips for taking snapshots, click here.

 

Martinez

Fireworks will be displayed at Martinez Shoreline Park beginning at 9:30 p.m. The show will last for about twenty-five minutes. For more information, click here

 

Livermore

Livermore's Red, White, and Boom Fireworks and Block Party will take place in Downtown Livermore. Fireworks will be launched off of the top of the Parking Structure on Railroad Avenue. Learn more by clicking here.

 

Pleasanton

The Alameda County Fair will be having a 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular with fireworks set to music performed by Oakland East Bay Symphony. Fireworks will start at 9:45 p.m. The first 400 people in line will be given early concert admission wristbands for the best seats from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 pm. For more information, click here.

 

June is Recognized as Alzheimer's Disease
 and Brain Awareness Month
The Board  of Supervisors joined Grace Liu and other members of the Alzheimer's Awareness Association to recognize Alzheimer's Disease and Brain Awareness Month in Contra Costa County.

June was, "Take the Purple Pledge" month. The Alzheimer's Association asked people around the world to help fight Alzheimer's disease by wearing purple and recognizing June 21 as the Longest Day. The Longest Day event recognizes and honors the patience, strength and endurance of caregivers and those living with Alzheimer's. An estimated 5.2 million Americans, with the majority being women, have Alzheimer's disease, including 200,000 who are younger than 65. For more information about the disease and how you can help, click here.

 

The San Ramon City Council approved $4.6 million for the construction phase of the library's much anticipated expansion and renovation.   The project will create a new state-of-the-art library within the current building. The second floor is being expanded and existing spaces will be repurposed to increase the public space by 7,000 square feet. The plan calls for bright, inviting d?cor and updated furnishings.  It includes larger spaces for children and teens, areas for quiet reading, seven study rooms, and technology upgrades and infrastructure to support the community's high expectations for information access. 

 

San Ramon Library closes on Monday August 17, 2015 and will remain closed through 2016 as the project progresses. During the closure, hours at Dougherty Station Library will be increased to match the current San Ramon Library schedule including Tuesday and Wednesday mornings and Sunday afternoons. Limited library services will also be available at the San Ramon Community Center where library customers will be able to pick up holds, return items, attend regular story times, and access laptops for quick hit computing. For current information about library hours, services and events click here or call San Ramon Library at 925-973-2850.

Supervisor Andersen Co-hosts Town Hall Events with Assemblywoman Catharine Baker

 

Candace with her staff at the Danville event

"Coffee & Cocoa with Your Legislators" was held on June 27 at the Danville Community Center. More than 100 constituents attended to get legislative updates and ask questions about county and state issues. Supervisor Andersen and Assemblywoman Baker will again pair up for a Town Hall event at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 29 in Rooms 115 &120 of Filippi Academic Hall at Saint Mary's College in Moraga. Please RSVP by clicking here

Mini Monday at Lindsay Wildlife Experience on July 20th

Encourage your young naturalist's curiosity at Mini Monday, a special day for children and their caregivers. Animal encounters, activities and crafts help connect your child to Lindsay's natural world and all its wonders. July 20th's Mini Monday will be Bug Bonanza. 

 

The fee is $20 for the first child ($10 for members), and $6 for each additional child ages 2 and up. Children under 2 are free with one paid admission. An adult caregiver must accompany children. Nut-free refreshments provided. No pre-registration required.

Supervisor Andersen Welcomes Summer Intern

 

Peter Hutchinson started working with us in May of 2015. He grew up in Danville, attended De La Salle High School, and is a rising sophomore at American University in Washington, DC. He is a double major at the School of Public Affairs, studying Political Science with a Law Concentration and Interdisciplinary Studies (Communications, Law, Economics, and Government). He is also a candidate for a certificate in Advanced Leadership Studies, and serves on the program's steering committee as the Fundraising Chairman. At our office, Peter helps with research and analysis of County issues, note-taking at various meetings, and office work such as scanning. He is excited to take a break from being in the nation's capital, and to learn more about government structure and operations at the county and local level. He hopes to take what he learns here and apply to both his academic education and to his future professional opportunities. 

Family Justice Center Opens in Richmond

On June 4th the Family Justice Center serving West County opened its doors. 300 people witnessed the transformation of the former County building at 256 24th Street in Richmond into a center to break cycles of violence. Family Justice Centers help use existing resources in new ways: ensuring easier access to high-quality services, build safer and healthier communities, and create violence-free futures. The County's other Family Justice Center, serving our end of the County, is at 2151 Salvio Street, Suite 201 in Concord.

 

The mission is a true community partnership bringing together multiple organizations to coordinate wrap-around services for victims of interpersonal violence (domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, elder abuse, and human trafficking). The Zero Tolerance for Domestic Violence Initiative, created by the Board of Supervisors in 2001, developed and continues to support the growth of the Family Justice Alliance. A center in Concord opened its doors in March and discussions are underway for a center in East/Far East County. To learn more about the Justice Center, click here.

National Council of Jewish Women - Contra Costa Section - Celebrates 30 Years

On June 24th, Supervisor Andersen spoke at the 30 Year Anniversary Celebration of the Contra Costa Section of the National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) in Rossmoor. She and Assemblywoman Catharine Baker recognized incoming section President Rose Jackson and outgoing president Elaine Brown for their outstanding leadership and commitment to social justice by improving the quality of life for women, children, and families. For more information about the Contra Costa Chapter of NCJW, click here

Contra Costa Arts & Culture Commission 
Honors Students

 

The Board of Supervisors and the Arts & Culture Commission of Contra Costa County honored the distinguished high school students who have been recognized as California Arts Scholars and selected to participate in the 2015 California State Summer School for the Arts program.

 

The California State Summer School for the Arts was established to help prepare talented high school students for careers in the arts and entertainment industries. To learn more about the California State Summer School for the Arts click here. For more information about the Contra Costa Arts & Culture Commission click here.

Congratulations to the ILSP Class of 2015

The Contra Costa County Children and Family Services' Independent Living Skills Program (ISLP) honored the graduating class of 2015 at the 27th Annual Recognition Dinner on June 16th at Centre Concord.

Gayle Israel, Chief of Staff to Supervisor Andersen, and Shanelle Scales-Preston, Outreach Coordinator to Congressman Mark DeSaulnier, enjoying the events of the evening.

 

The dinner, honoring 86 graduates and attended by 300 people, was sponsored by VESTIA, Inc. and prepared by Cindy Gershen and her "Change the Food, Change Everything" staff. The dinner was served by volunteers from Golden Hills Church and Calvary Temple Church.

 

Because of the ILSP program, the students are ready for life's opportunities and many got financial help for the next step. The Honorable Judge Lois Haight, The Assistance League of Diablo Valley, The Orinda Woman's Club and VESTIA, Inc. awarded over $60,000.00 in higher education grants.

 

ILSP alumni speaker, Timera Owens who attends Tuskegee University, spoke about perseverance and the importance of a higher education. Honorable Judge Lois Haight acknowledged the hard work by foster parents, social workers, care providers and court appointed special advocates (CASA) in assisting the graduates. Shen then presented 21 seniors with scholarships through her foundation totaling $21,000. 

 

While the focus was on the graduates, special credit goes to ILSP Coordinator, Don Graves and his team for planning another positive life changing event in these foster youths' lives. For more information on the Contra Costa County Foster Care Independent Living Skills Program, click here. 

Orinda City Council Seeking to Fill Vacant Seat

The Orinda City Council is seeking applications to fill the City Council position vacated by Steve Glazer. The term will begin on the date of appointment and continue through December 6, 2016.  The Council will be looking for an individual who has a thorough understanding of the issues facing the City and who can demonstrate a history of active civic leadership, community service and engagement in Orinda. In addition to regular Council business, the individual selected must be available to actively participate as a Council liaison to numerous external agencies and organizations as well as Orinda Commissions.

 

Requirements:

  •    Must be a resident of the City of Orinda
  •    Must be at least 18 years of age to be eligible

The application also requires the filing of a Statement of Economic Interest (Form 700) for calendar year 2014

 

Process:

 

 Interested applicants for the City Council position must:

  • Submit an application, including a Form 700, by 5:00pm on Monday, July 6, 2015. All applications and supplemental materials will be made available to the public after the application deadline.
  • Make a 5-minute opening statement and be available for questions at a Special City Council Meeting on Wednesday, July 15, 2015 beginning at 6:00pm.
  • The City Council will consider all applications and may make an appointment at the July 15, 2015 Special Meeting or at a subsequent meeting prior to the July 27, 2015 deadline

The new City Councilmember would tentatively be sworn into office at the July 21, 2015 City Council Meeting. Click here to visit the city's website for more information and to download a copy of the Form 700.

Aging By Design

On Saturday, August 1, 2015, the Lafayette Community Foundation will hold its "Aging By Design" event from 8:30 a.m.  to Noon.  This year, the event is being held at the Lafayette Elementary School gymnasium and multi-purpose room, located at 950 Moraga Road, in Lafayette. This is an informative symposium for seniors and families caring for seniors. There will be professional speakers, free pertinent information for seniors, such as local transportation options, legal advice, and handymen for home repairs.

 

There is no cost and light refreshments will be served. Click here for more information.

National Night Out

For the past 11 years Supervisor Andersen had celebrated National Night Out with her neighbors.  It is a great excuse for a block party and to help neighbors get to know one another and their local law enforcement. Join the rest of the nation and help celebrate National Night Out on Tuesday, August 4th, 2015. It is is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make our neighborhoods a safer, better place to live. 

 

The event was created and is sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch (NATW), the nation's premiere non-profit crime prevention organization dedicated to the development and promotion of crime prevention in communities across the nation. Founded in March of 1981, NATW works with law enforcement officials and civilian leaders to keep volunteers informed, interested, involved and motivated about local crime prevention.

 

Neighborhoods across the nation host block parties, festivals, parades, cookouts and other various community events with safety demonstrations, seminars, youth events, visits from emergency personnel and exhibits. Neighbors celebrate in 16,124 communities from all fifty states, US Territories, Canadian cities, and military bases worldwide.

 

Join the residents of Alamo at the Alamo Plaza Shopping Center for a community wide National Night Event on Tuesday, August 4th from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. that will feature FREE entertainment including McGruff's ID Kit, face painting, balloon twisting, train rides, and more. There will be a treasure hunt for families that will tie into a raffle for prizes at the end of the night. Local Fire and Police will also be in attendance to talk and mingle with the community. The stores and restaurants in the Center will provide discounts and promotions during the 2-hour event as well. Any questions, comments, or concerns can be e-mailed by clicking here, or call 800-762-1641.

 

Danville

If you would like to register a party or have officers from the Police and/or Town Council appear at your party please contact Crime Prevention Specialist Jacklyn McDaniel at (925) 314-3707 or click here to send an e-mail.

 

San Ramon

San Ramon residents can do the same with their police's Crime Prevention Specialist Darlene Kittredge at (925) 973-2720 or click here to email.

 

Moraga

In the Lamorinda area, Moraga is holding it's National Night Out on August 4.  It's a great way to meet your neighbors.  You can offer to host a party, barbecue or ice cream social.  A fire truck, police car or Town Council Member can visit your event.  For more information call Diana Graham at 925-631-9818 or e-mail by clicking here It is a fun and a great way to help all of us be prepared for whatever comes our way.

 

Residents of other cities in District 2 should contact your local police departments if you would like help in setting up a National Night Out event in your area. Local Police are always interested in community involvement in fighting crime, and would be happy to help participate.

 

You can also register your event with National Night Out 2015 by clicking here, or call 1-800-NITE-OUT. Registration is free and includes an organizational kit with guidelines, suggestions, and more. Please be sure to reach out to community leaders if you would like help coordinating your event. This is an amazing opportunity to get to know your neighbors and local law enforcement better, as well as learn about ways of fighting crime in your area.

 

On NATW's website www.natw.org, check out some of their other crime prevention programs, including Dog Walker Watch, a program that encourages dog walkers nationwide to serve as "extra eyes and ears" for local law enforcement agencies in the ongoing crime prevention efforts. And if one Night Out is not enough, take part in Project365 a yearlong program that utilizes the goals of National Night Out to encourage local communities to work together towards a common goal over the next 365 days.

 

Talk to your neighbors and find or create your own local Night Out. Together, our communities can help take a stand against crime by joining this National Party.

West Nile Virus Confirmed in Contra Costa County

The Contra Costa Mosquito and Vector Control District announced on June 18, 2015 that mosquitos found in Oakley have tested positive for West Nile Virus. The District's Scientific Program Manager, Steve Schutz, PhD, notes that interestingly, the mosquitoes that were tested were found before discovering the first infected dead bird of the year. Birds are usually the first sign of the virus, as they are highly susceptible.


 

Reports of dead birds are greatly needed in helping the District lead mosquito prevention operations. This year, the District has been receiving fewer calls. Any sightings of dead birds can be reported to the state hotline at 1-877-968-2476 or visiting the website by clicking hereTwo species of infectious mosquitoes in Contra Costa County prefer to feed on birds. People can become infected if such a mosquito bites an infected bird and then a person. 


 

Symptoms of West Nile Virus include fever, headache, tiredness, body aches, and swollen lymph glands. The illness can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on the severity of the disease. In its most extreme cases the virus can be fatal. Since 2005, 52 people in Contra Costa County have been diagnosed with West Nile Virus, and two people died from the disease in 2006. The majority of cases are not diagnosed or reported.


 

To reduce risk of contracting mosquito-borne diseases, the District encourages the following:

  • Dump or drain standing water.
  • Use repellents containing DEET, Picaridin, or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus.
  • Avoid being outdoors at dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are especially prevalent.
  • Report neglected swimming pools by calling 925-771-6195 or visit the website by clicking here.

Anonymous calls are accepted. This is crucial, as just one neglected pool can produce more than a million mosquitoes that can affect people within a five mile radius. The District is located at 155 Mason Circle in Concord. Call 925-771-6195 or visit the office between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. to get free mosquitofish for ornamental ponds, horse troughs, or neglected swimming pools.

Rotary International Celebrates the 
30th Year of the Polio Plus Campaign

Past President Cliff Dochterman and current Polio Plus Chairman Michael McGovern reminisce about the early days of Polio Plus Campaign

 

Cliff Dochterman, former world president of Rotary International and  current member of the Rotary Club of Moraga, was a featured speaker as the world-wide service organization celebrated the 30th anniversary of the Polio Plus effort, which is close to success in the quest to eradicate Poliomyelitis from the world.  Dochterman, who was world Vice President of Rotary International at the time, spoke about the initial fundraising from the 33,000 Rotary Clubs in the world, and the first successful experience immunizing six million children in the  Philippines  in 1980.  He then told how Rotary joined in partnership with other worldwide organizations -- World Health Organization, UNICEF, and the U. S. Centers for Disease Control, to take on the effort to fully eradicate the disease.  Also, Rotary was able to arrange large & significant challenge grants from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation in the last 10 years of the program.

 

Dr. Rebecca Martin, of the CDC in Atlanta, detailed the progress of Rotary's effort.  In the 30 year history, the number of new cases of polio in the world has gone from  nearly 400,000 cases in 120 endemic countries each year,  to a total of just 24 new cases in the first four months of 2015 in small parts of just three nations; Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Nigeria.  They predict that by 2018, polio will be the second disease declared eradicated from the world, following smallpox.

 

Other speakers outlined the progress being made on Post-Polio Syndrome, earliest treatments of polio outbreaks, the impact of March of Dimes organization on polio research, and the National Immunization Days conducted in many countries by Rotary.

 

John Germ, who will be world president of Rotary International beginning in July, reported that the Polio Plus Campaign has immunized the equivalent of more than 2.5 billion children at a cost of about $1.3 billion dollars.  During the anniversary events, the Rotary Club of Independence (Missouri) presented donations of about $80,000 which will be matched 2:1 by the Gates Foundation to fund $240,000  to continue immunizations in the three remaining countries where polio exists. Rotary International's 30 year program of polio eradication has been called, "the greatest humanitarian project of any non-governmental organization" by many world leaders.

 

Cliff Dochterman was President of Rotary International in 1992-1993, and was named Moraga's Citizen of the Year in 2014 for his work in leading many activities of humanitarian service. Click here for more information about Rotary International and the Rotary Club of Moraga.

The Board of Supervisors Recognizes 
The League of Women Voters of Diablo Valley

 

At the June 9 Board of Supervisors meeting, the Supervisors honored the League of Women Voters of Diablo Valley for receiving the "Voter Service Award for Election Coverage." The Diablo Valley League's efforts during the 2014 election year are impressive for the sheer volume of their candidate forums and the broad audience they reached. They partnered with eight organizations to produce 29 televised "election preview candidate roundtables" and seven live candidate forums in Central Contra Costa County.  The 29 televised roundtables were filmed in just three days and involved 119 candidates for 59 elected seats.  These roundtables and candidate forums informed and inspired thousands of Contra Costa voters by introducing them to their candidates and hearing their positions. To learn more about the League of Women Voters of Diablo Valley, click here.

San Ramon Hosting Sustainable Citizen Workshop

San Ramon will be hosting a new free workshop called "Sustainable Citizen." The workshop will be held from 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m., on July 21st at the San Ramon Community Center, 12501 Alcosta Boulevard. This fun, exciting and informational class is designed to teach simple and effective ways to incorporate sustainable practices into your everyday life. Topics covered include recycling, waste prevention, water conservation, and energy efficiency. The instructor, Todd Sutton - aka "The Waste Sleuth" - is an expert with over 20 years in the environmental field.  He has appeared on national television including the Discovery and History channels.  For more information on Todd, click hereThe Sustainable Citizen class is free but registration is required and space is limited.  To register, please click here and search for barcode #96323.

Troop 206 Visits the Supervisor

 

On June 16 Boy Scouts from Troop 206 met with Supervisor Andersen to learn about Contra Costa County and to work on their Citizenship and the Community merit badge.  They asked questions about issues in the San Ramon Valley and how they could help with solutions.

The Dougherty Valley San Ramon Rotary Club Donates to PACE School for Girls

             Rotary Club of Dougherty Valley/San Ramon President Kimberly Nicola, and Supervisor Candace Andersen

 

The Rotary Club of Dougherty Valley/San Ramon Club generously made a donation to PACE School for Girls in India in honor of Supervisor Andersen speaking to their club on June 10th. PACE's mission is "Changing the Face of Poverty, One Girl at a Time...One Village at a Time...One Community at a Time."  PACE believes if "you educate a girl, you benefit the entire community."  They have committed to sponsoring a young girl throughout her high school studies. To learn more about the Dougherty Valley San Ramon Rotary Club, click here.

AMR, Contra Costa Fire Team Up to Bid
for Ambulance Contract

Contra Costa County Emergency Medical Services Division (EMS) received one response to its request for proposals for a new contract to provide emergency ambulance service throughout much of the County, and has begun the process of evaluating it. American Medical Response (AMR) and the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District jointly submitted the only proposal by the May 21 deadline, responding to two different service models: One similar to the county's current model, and another with extensive strategies to optimize services while matching emergency ambulance service levels to patient need, based on recommendations in the EMS Modernization Project Report. EMS is seeking a qualified ambulance provider to serve all parts of the county, excluding areas served by the San Ramon Valley and Moraga-Orinda fire districts, on a 5-year contract with a 5-year renewal option based on performance. The Board of Supervisors will select its preferred model when it formally accepts a proposal. AMR holds the current contract, which runs through the end of this year.  For a timeline of the RFP process and links to electronic documents, including the RFP, click here.  

Leadership San Ramon Valley Honors 
T his Year's Graduates

From left: David Miller was this year's "Mayor" of the Leadership class, Elaine Schroth is the Executive Director, Supervisor Candace Andersen, and Bob Combs is President of the Board of Directors.
 

On Thursday, June 4, Supervisor Andersen attended the ceremony for Leadership San Ramon Valley's 2015 graduating class. At each class, once a month for ten months, engaging speakers, panelists, and involved community members or officials, share their unique experiences and expertise. Class members interact with the facilitators through fieldwork assignments and projects. To learn more about the Leadership San Ramon Valley, click here.

Contra Costa Awarded Grant

The Board of State and Community Corrections last month awarded $17.1 million in grants to help 16 counties develop strategies to reduce recidivism among mentally ill juvenile and adult offenders. Contra Costa County Probation Department submitted a grant application that focuses on youth as they transition out of our Juvenile Hall and/or while they are on probation. It will provide the evidence based program called Functional Family Therapy (FFT) by contracting with a community based organization. The FFT model is designed to involve the youth AND the family by providing a more comprehensive and family based response to the identified needs. They will augment the service opportunities by drawing down Medi-Cal revenue thereby allowing for more folks to be engaged. 

 

It is a three year grant and they are hopeful that they can get it operational by sometime in August. There will be an RFP process and the probation team will be trained in the process of understanding the most appropriate referral and how best to collaborate with the contracted agency. The proposal was rated #2 in the state but the real focus is our commitment to offer our youth the best opportunities for success. 

Danville Residents Encouraged to Go Greener -  Workshop on Water Conservation, Recycling and Composting July 14th

As California struggles through another year of drought, it is becoming more and more important for government and the community to work together to conserve water and learn to be more conservation-minded. The Town of Danville, Republic Services and the East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) are teaming up to deliver an upcoming workshop on water conservation, composting, garbage and recycling. The free event will be held on Tuesday, July 14, 2015 at the Veterans Memorial Building, 115 E. Prospect Avenue.

 

From 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., Kimberly Lam, Recycling Coordinator for Republic Services, will discuss the change in services for Danville customers.  Lam will discuss what goes in each cart and how residents can maximize their recycling and composting to reduce waste.  Republic Services will also be distributing free food scrap pails at the event for central Contra Costa residents.  Also during the first section of the program, composting expert Billi Haug will cover home composting and grasscycling.

 

The second half of the program focuses on water conservation with a presentation by EBMUD Water Conservation Supervisor Charles Bohlig.  Bohlig will discuss the best strategies for conserving water, including how residents can do their own tests at home, such as determining if their toilets are leaking water or if they have a water-efficient shower head. EBMUD will distribute free water-saving devices, while supplies last.

 

RSVPs are requested but not required to help organizers plan for attendance.  Those interested in attending can sign up by clicking hereFor more information about this event, contact Assistant to the Town Manager Nat Rojanasathira click here or (925) 314-3328.

 

Sustainable Lafayette Presents Summer Film Series at the 
Lafayette Library  and Learning Center

In July, Sustainable Lafayette is sponsoring two documentary films. On July 7, Food Patriots, a new feature length documentary film and public engagement campaign with the goal of getting everyone to improve their buying and eating habits by 10%, will show at 6:30 p.m.  That's 10% more fresh fruit and vegetables, 10% more organics, 10% more locally grown. As consumers learn to demand better food there will be pressure applied towards both policy and supply changes in our food system.

And then at 6:30 p.m. on July 28, Just Eat it will be shown. Just Eat it filmmakers dive into the issue of waste from farm, through retail, all the way to the back of their own fridge After catching a glimpse of the billions of dollars of good food that is tossed each year in North America, they pledge to quit grocery shopping cold turkey and survive only on foods that would otherwise be thrown away.


Both films will be shown in the Lafayette Library Community Center located at 3491 Mt. Diablo Blvd. To learn more  click here.

Nature Journaling Workshop with 

 Naturalist John Muir Laws

Do you want to keep a nature journal or bump your current practice to a higher orbit? Join the Lafayette Library and Learning Center for the first of a monthly nature journaling workshop series. See the possibilities of what a journal can be and how to make journaling and drawing a life changing habit. If you already have a journal kit, bring it along plus any personal favorite sketching or nature study supplies.


In this class you will learn the practices that makes journaling a lifelong habit, get tips to help you set up your journaling kit, participate in a journal kit show and tell, discover field texted logistics of sketching in the field and learn the foundational strategy to draw any subject. Nature Journaling makes you a better observer, naturalist, and artist and opens a world of beauty and discovery. 


The workshop will be held from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 16, 2015 at the Homework Center at the Lafayette Library and Learning Center, 3491 Mt. Diablo Blvd in Lafayette.


The event is free and all ages and experience levels are welcome. Register by click here. Presented by nature illustrator and founder of the Bay Area Nature Journal Club, John Muir Laws.

Recycle Smart with Compost

 

The Central Contra Costa Solid Waste Authority (CCCSWA) is now doing business under the new and improved name: RecycleSmart. Most of you probably don't think about what services your waste carrier provides, you just want your garbage and recycling picked up. RecycleSmart provides many consumer programs you might find helpful, including the increasingly popular and environmentally sustainable practice of home composting.

 

Organic waste material, like yard clippings and food scraps, can be given "new life" through composting. Finished compost is a great soil amendment that improves texture and adds important nutrients into the soil in your garden, creating healthy, thriving plants. It's easy and takes little time, space, and effort, and will also save you money. According to RecycleSmart, "one-third of the waste generated by Central Contra Costa County communities consists of yard and food waste." Home composting reduces the amount of waste which is a huge benefit for the environment. With so many advantages, the question should really be, Why not home compost?

 

It's easy to get started, RecycleSmart offers residents, schools and businesses the Soilsaver Compost Bin at a discount price of $62, which includes shipping and tax. This same bin normally retails for $90-$130. Bins can be purchased online by clicking here. The Soilsaver is available at the discounted price to service area residents, schools and businesses in Orinda, Moraga, Lafayette, Walnut Creek, Danville, unincorporated Contra Costa County, including: Alamo, Blackhawk and Diablo, and San Ramon (reimbursed to RecycleSmart by the City of San Ramon). The Home Composter Certification is given by RecycleSmart and Republic Services (aka Allied Waste Services) to single-family home residents who actively compost at home and rewards them with a $1.50 per month bill reduction.

 

Once you have a compost bin, you can start making your compost:

?       The first step in composting is to collect your yard and kitchen waste. Items like leaves, twigs, fruits, vegetables, straw, egg shells, and tea bags are perfect to use.  Avoid using foods that spoil like meat or cheese.

?       The second step is to combine the waste in your bin. As you mix the waste, add water.

?       Last but not least, the third step is to manage your compost. Mix leaves or grass in the compost once a week. Every two weeks, turn the pile. If you'd like to add more materials to the pile, grind or cut them so they will decompose faster. The compost pile should be slightly damp, so add water or dry materials depending on the wetness. Make sure food waste is buried so flies or other creatures won't be attracted. When your compost has gotten to its final stages, it should resemble dark dirt. At this point, stop adding waste and wait a month. After, your compost should be all ready.

 

RecycleSmart also hosts "Home Composting for Busy People!" workshops at eleven locations around Danville, Walnut Creek and Lafayette to teach you everything you need to know to get started. Visit their website to view the workshop schedule. Reservations are required. For questions or to register by phone call (925) 906-1801 x306 or check out their website by clicking here for more information.

Interested in Participating in Government?
Supervisor Andersen is Seeking Volunteers for County Advisory Boards

 

Are you looking for a way to participate in County Government? To follow are available volunteer opportunities:

 

District 2 vacancies available:

 

* Arts & Culture Commission click here

 

* County Service Area P-5 Citizens Advisory Committee (Residents of: Roundhill, Regency Woods or Windsor Green)

 

* In-Home Support Services Public Authority Advisory Committee click here

 

In addition, Supervisor Andersen would like to draw your attention to the following list of countywide advisory bodies that currently have At Large Seats available:

 

Advisory Council on Aging

Advisory Council on Equal Employment Opportunity

Agricultural Task Force Committee

Alcohol and Other Drugs Advisory Board

Countywide Bicycle Committee

CCC Local Planning Advisory Council for Early Care & Education

County Connection Citizen Advisory Committee

Developmental Disabilities Board

East Bay Regional Park District - Advisory Body

Economic Opportunity Council

Homelessness Advisory Board

Managed Care Commission

Contra Costa Commission for Women

Workforce Development Board

 

To apply for any of these seats, click hereOr you may contact Jill Ray, (925) 957-8860 or email by clicking here.

June Board Actions

Ever wonder what your Supervisor does at that weekly Tuesday Board of Supervisors Meeting?  Here are some of the board actions from the month of June which impact the residents of District 2:     

 

Recognized the League of Women Voters of Diablo Valley upon winning the Voter Service Award for Election Coverage at the Annual Convention in May 2015, as recommended by Supervisor Andersen.

 

Recognized June as Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month and June 21, 2015 as The Longest Day in Contra Costa County, as recommended by Supervisor Andersen.

 

Presented the "People Who Make a Difference Awards 2015" acknowledged individuals that have significantly contributed towards reducing substance abuse in Contra Costa communities.

 

Heard the Fiscal Year 2015-2016 Tentative Annual Report on assessment charges in County Service Area M-30 (Alamo Springs) and confirmed the Tentative Annual Report and assessed the charges specified in the report, Danville.

 

Heard the Fiscal Year 2015-2016 Tentative Annual Report on assessment charges in County Service Area T-1 (Public Transit) and confirmed the Tentative Annual Report and assessed the charges specified in the report, Danville.

 

Adjourned in the memory of Andrew Allan Morse, Resident of Lafayette and a local pilot.

 

Accepted completion of improvements for the Camino Tassajara Ridge Regional Trail for a project developed by Shapell Homes, Danville.

 

Recognized June 1-7, 2015 as National Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and Automated External Defibrillation (AED) Awareness Week, and June 2015 as National CPR/AED Awareness Month.

 

Appointed Glenn Umont to the District 2 seat on the Countywide Bicycle Advisory Committee, as recommended by Supervisor Andersen.

 

Added one Victim/Witness Assistance Program Specialist position in the Victim/Witness unit of the District Attorney's office.

 

Approved/Authorized application for and acceptance of a grant from the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) in an amount not to exceed $1,875,000 reflecting the potential hiring of six Deputy Sheriff positions for a three year period from the grant award date.

 

Approved/Authorized a contract amendment with First Carbon Solutions, to increase the payment limit for services required to complete the environmental impact report for the Tassajara Parks project in the Tassajara Valley, San Ramon area, with no change in the original term of September 10, 2014 through September 9, 2018.

 

Authorized a warrant in the amount of $51,000 to the City of Lafayette from the County's Park Dedication Trust Accounts to help fund the installation of a permanent path and new entrance gate at Leigh Creekside Park located at the corner of Moraga Blvd. and 4th Street in Lafayette.

 

Authorized the Auditor-Controller to issue a warrant in the amount of $80,900 to the Town of Moraga from the County's Park Dedication Trust Account to help fund the construction of a new park/plaza area located immediately adjacent to the renovated Council Chambers located at 331 Rheem Boulevard in Moraga.

 

Authorized a warrant in the amount of $67,000 to the City of Walnut Creek from the Park Dedication Trust Fund to help fund renovations to the Larkey Park Swim Center located at 2771 Buena Vista Avenue in Walnut Creek.

 

Authorized the issuance and sale of "Walnut Creek School District General Obligation Refunding Bonds" by the Walnut Creek Unified School District on its own behalf.

 

Received Civil Grand Jury Report No. 1503, "Time for a New Look at Pension Costs"; Forwarded it to the County Administrator for response.

 

Heard a presentation on the 2015 Fire Season from ConFire.

 

Adopted Ordinance that amends the Alcoholic Beverage Sales Commercial Activities Ordinance to restrict the sale of alcopops under certain conditions and establish new posting requirements for alcohol retail sales locations.

 

Accepted the recommended program design for implementation of Assisted Outpatient Treatment (Laura's Law) in Contra Costa County; and authorized and directed the Behavioral Health Services Director to proceed with the implementation.

 

Approved the revised Emergency Operations, Plan as approved by the Emergency Services Policy Board.

 

Accepted report on PACE (Property Assessed Clean Energy) financing; Directed the Department of Conservation and Development to implement an application process to enable PACE financing providers to apply to operate PACE financing programs in Contra Costa County.

 

Awarded/Authorized a construction contract for the 2015 Pavement Surface Treatment Project, Alamo.

 

Awarded/Authorized a construction contract for the Miranda Avenue Sidewalk Improvements Project, Alamo.

 

Approved/Authorized the annual Drainage Area Benefit Assessments for Fiscal Year 2015/16 for Drainage Areas in Walnut Creek, Alamo, Danville, and San Ramon.

 

Adopted Wendt Ranch GHAD budget for 2015/2016 fiscal year and updating GHAD Manager payment limit under Consulting Services Agreement, as recommended by the GHAD Attorney and GHAD Manager.

 

Adopted Canyon Lakes GHAD budget for 2015/2016 fiscal year and updating GHAD Manager payment limit under Consulting Services Agreement, as recommended by the GHAD Attorney and General Manager.

 

Adopted Wiedemann Ranch GHAD budget for 2015/2016 fiscal year and updating GHAD Manager payment limit under Consulting Services Agreement, as recommended by the GHAD Attorney and General Manager.

 

Recognized fifteen Contra Costa County students as California Arts Scholars as recommended by the Arts and Culture Commission of Contra Costa County.

 

Introduced Ordinance establishing a streamlined permitting process for small residential solar energy systems; Waived reading; Fixed July 7, 2015 for adoption.

 

Reappointed Lauren Rettagliata to the District II Family Member seat on the Contra Costa County Mental Health Commission, as recommended by Supervisor Andersen.

 

Adopted a "Support" position on SB 11 (Beall), as amended: Peace officer Training: Mental Health, a bill that requires the Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training to include in its basic training course an evidence-based behavioral health course training officers to recognize, deescalate, and refer persons with mental illness or intellectual disability who are in crisis, as recommended by the Mental Health Commission.

 

Approved/Authorized a contract amendment with Addiction Research and Treatment, Inc. to provide additional methadone maintenance treatment services.

 

Approved/Authorized the Fish and Wildlife Committee to host the 15th annual Fall Forum event for law enforcement agencies to discuss fish and wildlife conservation and enforcement of regulations in Contra Costa County.

 

Approved the response to Grand Jury Report No. 1502, " Utilization of CalFresh in Contra Costa County".

 

Recognized the 811 "Call Before You Dig Program".

 

Authorized the County Librarian to temporarily close the San Ramon Library for approximately 18 months, from August 17, 2015 through February 28, 2017, to complete a branch expansion and remodel; and to open a smaller library outlet in the San Ramon Community Center during the construction period.

 

Authorized the Chair of the Board to sign the East Bay Municipal Utility District Pledge to Partner in Saving Water.

 

Adopted the draft Mental Health Services Act Three Year Program and Expenditure Plan Update for Fiscal Years 2015/16 through 2016/17.

 

Approved/Authorized submittal of a grant to the California Department of Community Services and Development the "Contra Costa County's 2016-17 Community Action Plan", to ameliorate poverty and increase self-sufficiency efforts for impacted Contra Costa County residents.

 

Received Civil Grand Jury Report No. 1504, "Averting Bay Area Rapid Transit District Strikes", and forwarded to the County Administrator for response.