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Southern Marin Scoop - February 2025 |
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Dear Southern Marin Friends and Neighbors,
As I begin my second term as your District 3 Marin County Supervisor, I’m reflecting on the past four years—marked by both challenges and progress. Sworn in during the height of the pandemic, we navigated uncertainty together, prioritizing public health and community resilience. Thanks to the dedication of Marin County staff, our public health leaders, and strong community partnerships, we achieved one of the nation’s highest vaccination rates and safeguarded lives.
Beyond the pandemic, we made significant strides on longstanding priorities, from preserving open space on Tiburon Ridge to restoring Richardson Bay’s eelgrass meadows and expanding housing solutions for former anchor-outs. Additionally, Marin Housing Authority, whose Board I chair, continued to move forward with plans for the renovation of Golden Gate Village, selecting Burbank Housing to manage the upgrade of 300 units of affordable rental housing in Marin City.
We’ve also focused on emergency preparedness and public safety, local infrastructure improvements, and ensuring county services are accessible where people need them most—including the County Services Hub that will open later this year in Marin City. During my first term in office, vegetation management projects completed included: the Shoreline Highway Fuel Break Project in Tam Valley, vegetation removal behind Golden Gate Village and the Paved Road Fuel Reduction Program.
During these times of uncertainty and transition, consistent with our values of excellence, respect, diversity, collaboration, integrity and innovation, the Marin County Board of Supervisors remains committed to fostering an inclusive community that upholds our values, while opposing all forms of discrimination. We adopted a Resolution affirming our commitment to these values that you can read in this newsletter. I will continue to keep equity for all at the forefront of the work I do in Marin County.
Looking ahead to the next four years and continuing the work we’ve started, strengthening services for our seniors, wildfire prevention and evacuation planning, and addressing flooding and sea-level rise adaptation for Richardson Bay communities will also be at the forefront in District 3. With commitment, collaboration, and community, we will continue to move Marin forward together.
All the Best,
Stephanie
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 In This Edition
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 Thank you to the voters of Southern Marin for giving me the opportunity to serve you for another four years. I am excited about all the progress we've made and all that we can continue to accomplish together. I am grateful to County Counsel Brian Washington for swearing me in for another term.
 I want to give a warm welcome to Supervisor Brian Colbert, District 2. I’m grateful to serve with my Board of Supervisors colleagues (from left: Supervisor Eric Lucan, Supervisor Dennis Rodoni, Supervisor Mary Sackett and Supervisor Brian Colbert). We are a great group of community leaders and will do great things for Marin.
Resolution Affirming the Board’s Commitment to Democracy and
Community in the County of Marin
The County of Marin stands united in celebrating the rich tapestry of diversity that makes our communities strong and vibrant. We recognize that our strength comes from the contributions of individuals from all walks of life whose experiences, talents, and resilience enrich us all. Recent rhetoric, elections and potential changes in federal policy have contributed to the fact that many in our community are concerned and fearful. Fearful of discrimination, hate, deportation, and exclusion from a community in which they belong.
The Board is dedicated to advancing our top community priorities, which include the following:
- Building a racially equitable community
- Increasing affordable housing and addressing homelessness
- Reducing carbon emissions and adapting to climate change
- Enhancing disaster preparedness
- Investing in county infrastructure
- Addressing employee recruitment and retention at the County
These priorities are rooted in our local values and not influenced by changes in the federal administration. We remain dedicated to working with partners across all levels—state, regional, and local, including government and community organizations—to ensure that essential services remain accessible to all Marin community members.
The Marin County Board of Supervisors affirms its unwavering support for the rights, freedoms, and interests of all members of our diverse communities, regardless of identity, background, or immigration status. This resolution affirms that we are and will continue to be a united Marin County, committed to democracy, equity, and inclusion for all.
At the January 14, 2025 Board of Supervisors meeting, the Board adopted a resolution affirming its Commitment to Democracy and Community.
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District 3 Hosts Marin City Open House
 On Wednesday, Feb. 5, we hosted the second Marin City Open House at the Marin City Library in collaboration with multiple Marin County departments. Participating agencies included Health and Human Services, Marin County Free Library, Probation, Public Defender, Sheriff’s Office, the new Civilian Oversight Commission, Marin Housing Authority with Burbank Housing, developers of Golden Gate Village, and Marin Transit.
Meeting with Southern Marin Mayors and Town/City Managers
 Earlier this month, I brought together the Mayors and Town/City Managers from my district for thoughtful and fruitful conversation. From left: Mill Valley Mayor Stephen Burke, Mill Valley City Manager Todd Cusimano, Belvedere Mayor Jane Cooper, Sausalito Mayor Joan Cox, Tiburon Councilmember Alice Fredericks, Tiburon Town Manager Greg Chanis, Belvedere City Manager Robert Zadnik, and Sausalito City Manager Chris Zapata.
A Morning with the Marin Housing Authority
 This year, I have been elected Chair of the Marin Housing Authority (MHA) Commission. Recently, I met with staff members and took a tour of their office in San Rafael. Here is a photo of some of the great MHA staff who work to assist low and moderate-income residents of Marin County.
2nd Annual Career Day at Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Academy
 The 2nd Annual Career Day at Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Academy focused on inspiring students by sharing our career journeys and experiences to empower the next generation with stories of success, resilience, and leadership The event was put together by County staff from a variety of departments and featured emergency preparedness training by the Office of Emergency Management, hands-on activity stations, career panels and storytelling.
Performing Stars Honors Community Partners
 At the January 28 Board of Supervisors meeting, Felecia Gaston of Performing Stars honored agencies and organizations for their support of the annual toy drive, which benefits more than 300 children annually who live in low-income areas of Marin County. Agencies and organizations recognized include Bay Cities Refuse, California Highway Patrol, Marin County Fire Department, Marin County Probation Department, Marin County Sheriff’s Office, Mill Valley Fire Department, Southern Marin Fire District, and Seaplane Adventures as well as several steadfast community and school volunteers.
Marin City Community Visioning Project Public Meeting
You are cordially invited to join in shaping Marin City's future by participating in an upcoming workshop. The Marin City Community Visioning Plan is a chance for residents, families, and local groups to join in creating plans and strategies that will make a difference in Marin City.
Online:
Tuesday, February 11, 5:30-7:30 p.m. on Zoom (link in QR code below)
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Board of Supervisors Honors Black History Month
At the Marin County Board of Supervisors meeting on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, the Board will honor Black History Month with a ceremonial resolution. The County of Marin acknowledges the tremendous struggles, triumphs, and contributions of African Americans from all walks of life and their endeavors to learn and thrive throughout history. Making unforgettable marks in our Nation as artists, scientists, educators, entrepreneurs, profound thinkers, members of the faith community, athletes, political leaders, which all reflect the greatness of a resilient people. We all gain a fuller knowledge and appreciation for the influence, culture, and traditions that we embrace as a nation.
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Marin City and Tam Valley Affordable Housing Agreement on
February 11 Board Agenda
A smaller affordable housing project in Marin City is closer to reality, pending a Board of Supervisors review of an agreement with the developer set for February 11 at its regularly scheduled board meeting. Also to be discussed will me the tandem project at 150 Shoreline.
The Board will review a staff recommendation to approve an alternate project agreement between the County and the project developer, The Pacific Companies (TPC), that sets out a pathway for the development of 42 units of housing at the Drake Avenue property instead of the originally approved 74. The smaller project was conceived in response to concerns expressed by the Marin City community.
The Marin County Community Development Agency (CDA) has negotiated a detailed solution with the developer that calls for 42 units of affordable housing at 825 Drake Avenue in Marin City with the remaining 32 units to be constructed at 150 Shoreline Avenue in unincorporated Mill Valley. Twenty-two units were approved for the 150 Shoreline site in 2021.
The February 11 meeting of the Board of Supervisors will start at 9 AM in the Board chamber, Suite 330, Marin County Civic Center, 3501 Civic Center Drive, San Rafael. This item is expected to be heard before the lunch-hour recess. The public is invited to address the Board regarding this matter in person, virtually or via written comment. Anyone may watch the livestream and participate remotely through the County website.
Interested community members can review all updates and information about the projects on the 825 Drake webpage or 150 Shoreline webpage.
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Marin City Portable Pumps in Action
On December 14, 2024, extreme high tides peaked at 8.16 ft. at the Golden Gate Bridge, coinciding with 2.5” of rainfall in the Marin City watershed. The pond located between the Gateway Shopping Center and Highway 101 quickly reached capacity after just 1” of rain, threatening access to the Marin City community and causing lane closures on U.S. 101. Flood Control Zone 3 District staff activated new portable pumps throughout the morning and afternoon, successfully keeping the intersection of Drake and Donahue in Marin City passable. This critical flood response, carried out by County of Marin Flood Zone 3 District staff, was made possible through a special State of California allocation secured by Senator McGuire to protect Marin City from life-threatening access disruptions.
Marin Library Presents its Annual Black History Celebration
The Marin County Free Library (MCFL) is proud to present its annual Black History Celebration, a month-long series of events in February honoring Black voices and cultural contributions.
Community members of all ages are invited to participate in programs featuring music, history, and discussions that highlight the achievements and resilience of Black communities.
MCFL is committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable environment in which all community members feel seen, heard, and valued. Through its programming, outreach, and resources, the MCFL staff strives to uplift underrepresented voices, provide accessible learning opportunities, and support lifelong learning. The library’s mission reflects the County of Marin’s priority of building racially equitable communities and ensures that our libraries serve as welcoming spaces for all ages. Community members are invited to participate and join others in this celebration.
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Nonprofits May Apply for County Grant Funds
Applications are welcomed through February 28 for the County of Marin’s Community Services Fund, a resource for nonprofits and other qualified organizations to receive grants of between $1,000 and $10,000 for one-time-only needs.
Twice a year, grants applications for the Community Services Fund are filed with the Office of the County Executive (OCE) and reviewed by OCE staff. Applicants must be registered with the Internal Revenue Service as a 501c3 charity or a tax-exempt organization that provides services to all Marin County residents.
Applicants are allowed to submit funding requests for one-time projects, including unforeseen or emergency needs, not ongoing needs. The projects must be completed by the end of the contract term or within about six months.
The Board of Supervisors must approve the grant allocations. Funds are available to successful applicants soon after the Board approval, which tends to come roughly two months after the application period closes. Those receiving grants become contractors with the County. Learn more about funding opportunities for nonprofits.
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Marin Teen Girl Conference
 The Marin Teen Girl Conference 2025 is a powerful day of inspiration, connection, and empowerment designed for teen girls across Marin. The conference, which will take place Featuring dynamic keynote speakers, interactive workshops, and meaningful discussions, the conference provides a supportive space to explore topics like leadership, mental health, self-confidence, and social impact. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with mentors, make new friends, and gain tools to navigate the challenges and opportunities of adolescence. Whether you're looking to amplify your voice, build resilience, or simply be part of a community that lifts each other up, this event is for you! #MTGC2025 #EmpowerInspireLead
 THE Town of Tiburon is undertaking a study to evaluate existing and future needs for Tiburon Boulevard, Paradise Drive, and Trestle Glen Boulevard. Please join a virtual workshop to learn more about the project and to share your experiences and ideas.
ACCESS THE ZOOM MEETING
https://bit.ly/TiburonFeb12
Meeting ID: 833 1473 8890
Passcode: 844138
“Stronger Together: Neighbors Helping Neighbors”
A Free Community Event, March 2
 Building stronger, safer, and more connected neighborhoods starts with all of us! Westminster Events invites you to “Stronger Together: Neighbors Helping Neighbors to Build Connected, Prepared, and Resilient Communities”—a free panel discussion, reception, and information fair on Sunday, March 2, from 3:00-5:00 PM at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Tiburon.
A panel of local experts will share how neighbor-to-neighbor connections can make a powerful impact by enhancing emergency preparedness, promoting social cohesion, increasing civic engagement, and fostering volunteerism.
Featured speakers include: 🔹 Caroline Joachim – Mill Valley Councilmember 🔹 Dr. Meg Foley McCabe – Executive Director of Programming, Fire Safe Marin 🔹 John Power – Executive Director, Marin Villages 🔹 Matt Cramer – Sycamore Village Resident & Advocate 🔹 Moderated by Dick Spotswood, Marin IJ columnist
Heat Pump Webinars
 Do you need to replace your gas furnace or water heater soon? Learn why switching to an efficient electric-powered heat pump for water heating and/or space heating and cooling can help save energy, improve indoor air quality, and be more environmentally friendly. The County of Marin Sustainability Team is hosting two free resident-focused webinars that will cover how heat pumps work, what to consider before installation, funding programs to help you pay for your project, and the local regulatory landscape.
Dates and RSVP links:
- Heat Pump Water Heaters, Wednesday, February 26, 6pm to 7:30pm, RSVP here.
- Heat Pumps for Space Heating and Cooling, Wednesday, March 5, 6pm to 7:30pm, RSVP here.
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Public Emergency Portal
The Marin County Emergency Portal is your trusted source of information. During an emergency, this site will provide you with the latest information regarding significant incidents or events along with resources and/or actions for community members. You can reach the County of Marin Office of Emergency Management at (415) 473-6584. |
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Sign up to receive emergency alerts
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Emergency officials use the AlertMarin Emergency Notification System to provide you with critical information and potentially life-saving instruction. Those registered will receive the notification if they have been determined to be within the precise geographic area(s) affected. An AlertMarin notification will provide timely, clear, and accurate instruction in the form of a call, text, or email. SIGN UP
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Schedule Your Complimentary Chipper
The Southern Marin Fire District Chipper Program continues to be a valuable service to the residents of Sausalito, Mill Valley and the communities of Tam Valley, Homestead Valley, Strawberry, Alto Sutton, Almonte and Tiburon. After residents have partnered with three or more homes within distance to their home to clear brush, they can call a Vegetation Management Specialist to schedule a chipper and crew to chip and haul away the material free of charge.
MORE INFO
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Commission Applications Now Open for Civilian Oversight of Sheriff’s Office
The application period is underway for Marin County’s new Civilian Oversight Commission (COC), which will be empowered to provide oversight on matters involving the Marin County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO).
Community members have until February 16, 2025 to apply online. The application includes general personal information and a chance to provide narrative answers about the motivations for applying, engagement experience with community members of diverse backgrounds, and other pertinent participation. All Marin County residents aged 18 and older are encouraged to apply, especially communities impacted by MCSO policing policies, and people who might not have been involved with local County government before. FLYER (Eng) | FOLLETO (Esp)
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Apply to Serve on a Board or Commission
Thank you for considering a role on one of Marin County’s boards and commissions! Your time, talents, and commitment to public service are invaluable to our community. By volunteering, you contribute to a more inclusive, responsive, and effective county government. Serving on a board or commission offers a unique opportunity to engage in meaningful civic work, make a difference, and gain insight into the complexities of local government. Your input and perspective are key to fostering a healthy democracy and ensuring that Marin County remains vibrant, equitable, and forward-thinking. We hope you’ll consider joining us in this rewarding endeavor! Together, we can build a stronger community.
In District 3, we are currently seeking applicants for the Civilian Oversight Commission, Commission on Aging, CSA #29 Paradise Cay, Library Commission, the Strawberry Design Review Board, among others.
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