Hello -  

September is an important month as we highlight two vital issues: Suicide Prevention and Recovery Month and United Against Hate Week. Join me in participating in local events, helping spread awareness, and committing to these causes not only in September, but throughout the year.

Suicide Prevention Month
Last week, the Board of Supervisors proclaimed September as Suicide Prevention and Recovery Month to create awareness of this important and preventable health issue. This year’s campaign Ask. Listen. Connect. promotes lifesaving actions we can all take to connect people to supportive resources, including the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline 988. Throughout September, the county and community partners are hosting several virtual and in-person community events. Register and learn more about the various opportunities. Together, we can make a difference by supporting those in need and fostering connections.

United Against Hate Week
The United Against Hate Week movement began in 2017 to stop hate, address bullying, and build safe, brave, and inclusive communities across our country. I am proud that the Marin County Board of Supervisors has consistently supported these efforts. At our September 24 meeting we will consider proclaiming September 21-27, 2024, as United Against Hate Week. 

On Wednesday, September 25 at 6:00 PM at Novato City Hall, the City of Novato's Multicultural Advisory Commission is hosting a Community Empowered Event aligned with United Against Hate Week. The evening will include conversation to explore strategies for combating hate and fostering stronger community connections along with a presentation by the Novato Police Department. 

As a community, let’s continue to celebrate our rich diversity, embracing people of all races, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, abilities, and backgrounds. Let’s stand united in our collective efforts to combat divisive rhetoric and all forms of bigotry, including racism, xenophobia, sexism, and religious intolerance.

The County of Marin maintains over 420 miles of roadway across unincorporated Marin County. We know that the condition of the roads in your neighborhoods and those you drive regularly are of interest to you.

Did you know the county has a five-year pavement resurfacing projects plan? The five-year plan includes approximately 199 miles of roadway that are expected to be improved between the 2025 and 2029 paving seasons. The estimated cost for those improvements is $87 million. To help provide the public with an overview of the workplan, our Public Works Team launched an online interactive map.  

It is important to note that the first two years of the plan are more solidified than the subsequent three. For the final three years, the selection of roads may change depending on many variables, including design and permitting progress, availability of funding, coordination with utility companies, and priority shifts because of emergency projects, such as storm repair efforts. 

When looking at the online interactive map, if you click on a colored road segment, additional information will populate including the assumed approach to be used to improve that segment of roadway. To maintain and improve the county road network, our Public Works Department utilizes a hybrid strategy of pavement maintenance, pavement preservation, pavement rehabilitation, and road reconstruction. Details about these methods, as well as additional information about the county’s road paving programs, can be found on the Paving Program webpage.

The County of Marin has over 50 Boards and Commissions, covering a myriad of topic areas, that serve in an advisory role to the Board of Supervisors by providing important review and recommendations. Some of these appointments are district specific, some are at-large appointments, and some require specific qualification-based representation.  

District 5 is well represented on our County Boards and Commissions with an amazing group of volunteers who dedicate their time and expertise studying important issues and providing invaluable insights and perspectives. See photos below for a snapshot of some of our District 5 Representatives. I want to take a moment to acknowledge them, as well as the many commissioners not photographed, for their commitment, participation, and engagement. Thank you for your service to our community! 

If you are interested in serving on a County Board or Commission, visit the Current Openings webpage to see vacancies.  

The Novato Veterans of Foreign Wars, VFW Post 7816 marks its 75th Anniversary this month and is the County’s only remaining VFW Post. I've had the pleasure of getting to know VFW Post 7816 Commander Rick Saber (pictured below) and learning about the many opportunities this organization offers Veterans to gather socially and be involved in the community. 

If you or someone you know is a veteran of a foreign war seeking connection and friendship, this opportunity is worth exploring. Membership details and the application process can be found easily on their website. Additionally, the Novato Post 7816 has formed a VFW Auxiliary. Membership is open to relatives of any veteran that is/was eligible for VFW membership even if that relative was not a member of the VFW. It’s a great group of people that come together to support veterans. To learn more call (415) 897-0779 or email: info@novatovfw.org. 

A heartfelt thank you to all Veterans for their dedication and service to our country.

Marin’s 36th Annual Senior Fair takes place tomorrow, September 18, from 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM at the Marin Center Exhibit Hall. This event is free to attend and offers valuable information and resources for older adults, their families, caregivers, and anyone seeking credible planning advice. 

With 140 exhibit booths the fair will showcase a wide range of products and services including health and wellness, caregiving, mental health, technology, legal and financial services, housing, in-home care, transportation, education, fitness, and more. Attendees can also take advantage of health screenings, safety education, flu shots, and enjoy live entertainment throughout the day. 

I hope to see you there as this promises to be both an informative and fun event!

As your Supervisor, I welcome and encourage you to connect, share your concerns, and your ideas. We want to hear from you! Please use the contact information below to reach out to the District 5 Team. A reply to this email doesn’t come directly to my office, and I’d like to respond to you in a timely manner.  

**Please note, our email addresses have changed**