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Southern Marin Scoop - August 2025 |
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Dear Southern Marin Friends and Neighbors,
As we soak up the last days of summer, I am reminded once again of how vibrant and resilient our community is. From celebrating Mill Valley’s 125th anniversary to honoring Marin City’s rich history and looking ahead to its bright future, Southern Marin continues to inspire with its deep sense of place and shared commitment to progress.
This month’s Southern Marin Scoop highlights both milestones and momentum: critical funding secured for Golden Gate Village revitalization, regional transportation planning on the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge, celebrations of cultural and environmental leadership, and heartfelt community gatherings from Strawberry to Sausalito. We are also grateful for the energy and dedication of our summer intern, Yseult “Izzy” Serre-Banke, whose work has supported these efforts.
Beyond Southern Marin, important countywide initiatives are moving forward—from the Sheriff’s new Civilian Oversight Commission to storm preparedness, immunization reminders for families, and opportunities for civic engagement on our boards and commissions. These are the threads that strengthen our countywide fabric while supporting the unique needs of each district.
I invite you to explore the updates and upcoming events below, and I look forward to seeing many of you at community celebrations, resource fairs, and safety forums in the weeks ahead. Together, we are writing the next chapter of Southern Marin’s story—one of connection, care, and shared responsibility.
Warm regards,
Stephanie
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 In This Edition
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Mill Valley Celebrates 125th Anniversary This Weekend
Event Features
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Saturday, August 30th
- Dedication of the Old Mill Roof Restoration & Ribbon Cutting - View the invitation!
- Curtain Theatre's 25th Anniversary Production "As You Like It" - Old Mill Park Amphitheater
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Sunday, August 31st
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Monday, September 1st
- Mill Valley Historical Parade
- * Community Sing of "Mill Valley” with Rita Abrams
- Birthday Cake and Cupcakes
- Community Party in the Plaza
- Live Music & Performances in the Plaza
MORE INFO
Golden Gate Village Secures Critical Funding Needed to Launch Phase 1 of Revitalization
 The revitalization of the historic Golden Gate Village is moving from plans to reality. The community has received an award reservation of tax credits and bonds from the California Tax Credit Allocation Committee (TCAC) and California Debt Limit Allocation Committee (CDLAC), unlocking a key piece of financing needed to start Phase 1 of the revitalization in early 2026. Planning for remaining phases is anticipated to start as soon as 2027.
Phase 1 will focus on a portion of the property’s historic mid-century low-rise buildings, delivering upgraded kitchens and bathrooms, enhanced building safety features, energy-efficiency improvements, and refreshed outdoor spaces. These long-awaited repairs reflect years of collaboration, planning, and input from residents who helped shape the vision for revitalization. READ MORE
Commission Votes To Explore High Occupancy Vehicle Lane on The Richmond-San Rafael Bridge and Encourages Public Access
 Earlier this month, the San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission (BCDC) voted to approve a request from California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) and the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) to test new transportation options between the North and East Bay and improve public access to the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge.
The change in operations will allow Caltrans and MTC to test and study elements of the Westbound Improvement Project, including the feasibility of a part-time high-occupancy vehicle lane for mass transit and carpools and a part-time multi-use path for cyclists and pedestrians on the upper deck. A preliminary study found that the Westbound Improvement Project could save commuters traveling to the North Bay 10 to 19 minutes per trip. The transportation agencies will use the next three years to study the impact on safety, bridge traffic, and nearby vulnerable communities. MORE INFO
Thank You to Our Summer Intern, Yseult “Izzy” Serre-Banke
We are so grateful to our summer intern, Yseult Serre-Banke—known as Izzy—who recently joined the District 3 team. Izzy, now a senior at Terra Linda High School, spent part of her summer touring universities in England before jumping right into her internship with us. She hopes to pursue a master’s degree in Criminology, building on her strong interests in both psychology and criminology.
Reflecting on her experience, Izzy shared:
“Being an intern for the County has definitely taught me many things; obviously it taught me how people work a 9 to 5 and how friendly the workplace can really be. I learned plenty about how the government works, how to help others resolve problems, and what all these people's roles are in the County—making me realize it wouldn’t be able to work without them. I can’t wait for more to come.”
Thank you, Izzy, for your time, dedication, and service to our community. We wish you the very best in your bright future!
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 Recently interns from the Board of Supervisors offices and the Office of the County Executive met with Marin County Sheriff Jamie Scardina and toured the Marin County Sheriff's Office.
Forever Marin City Futures Forum
 Marin City came together on July 17 for the Forever Marin City Futures Forum, where residents, youth, small business owners, faith leaders, and seniors joined Marin County officials to envision a stronger future. Held at Cornerstone Community Church, the gathering of nearly 80 participants featured interactive workshops on education, economic empowerment, and infrastructure. Community members voiced bold ideas—from restoring wetlands and building a new sports complex to reimagining schools and workforce opportunities—while emphasizing that meaningful progress requires open, and sometimes uncomfortable, conversations. “This is how change is made—together,” was the shared spirit that carried the day.
Hosted by Marin City Climate Resilience with Be Present Consulting, the forum highlighted the need for equity, collaboration, and accountability from county leaders. Marin County Executive Derek Johnson acknowledged that healing begins with trust and pledged to ensure equity is reflected not just in words, but in action and investment.
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Touring Muir Woods National Monument
 🌲✨ What an unforgettable day among the majestic redwoods at Muir Woods National Monument, Aug. 27. These ancient giants never cease to inspire awe with their beauty, strength, and resilience.
A heartfelt thank you to Muir Woods Volunteer Matt Cramer and Lead Ranger Jace Ritchie for their incredible tour and warm hospitality — your knowledge and passion brought the forest to life in such a meaningful way. 🌿💚
Marin Center for Independent Living's State of Caregiving Summit
 Supervisor Moulton-Peters was honored to give remarks at Marin Center for Independent Living’s State of Caregiving Summit on Saturday, Aug. 23, highlighting the importance of supporting caregivers and the vital services available in Marin County. Pictured here with Sausalito community leader Sybil Boutilier.
Strawberry Community Night
 Supervisor Moulton-Peters enjoyed a wonderful evening at Strawberry Community Night on August 22—connecting with community members, catching up with old friends, and meeting young families who make this community so special.
Marin City Unveils Historical Legacy Banners Honoring Black Shipyard Workers
On August 13, the Marin City Historical and Preservation Society and Performing Stars held a community-wide unveiling of the Marin City Historical Legacy Banners, honoring the vital contributions of Black Marinship workers and their descendants.
The event commemorated the 83rd anniversary of August 13, 1942—the day the first African American families settled in Marin City’s wartime housing during World War II. The occasion served as a powerful reminder of resilience, migration, and the creation of community in the face of historic challenges. LEARN MORE
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An Inspiring Evening with Greenbelt Alliance
 Recently, my Aides and I, along with Community Development Agency Director Sarah Jones attended an event in Belvedere hosted by Greenbelt Alliance, whose mission is to educate, advocate, and collaborate to ensure the Bay Area’s lands and communities are resilient to a changing climate. LEARN MORE
Marine Mammal Center Restores Another Patient
Groveacher, a 200-pound male sea lion, made his way back to the ocean at Rodeo Beach on August 1st after weeks of care at the Marine Mammal Center—the world’s largest marine mammal hospital of its kind. Rescued near Pismo Beach and treated for malnutrition and leptospirosis at the Marin Headlands facility, he’s now healthy and back where he belongs. READ MORE
Galilee Harbor in Sausalito Celebrates 45 years
 Galilee Harbor in Sausalito marked 45 years on August 2nd, with its annual Maritime Day celebration—boat rides, house-boat tours, live music, local art, and fish n' chips drawing an enthusiastic crowd. What a perfect day to go out and celebrate this special occasion. What started as a few boats along the harbor has become a long-standing cooperative of artists, boatbuilders, and passionate workers. Nearly half a century later, they’re still holding down a unique corner of the waterfront. READ MORE
Marin Housing Authority and County of Marin Provide Internet Connectivity and Support to Marin Housing Authority Residents Serving Older Adults and People with Disabilities
The Marin Housing Authority (MHA) and the County of Marin Information Services and Technology (IST) Department have executed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to establish the terms of a collaboration to complete a digital divide project which will provide two years of free broadband speed Internet service, an electronic device to access the Internet, and two years of free training and support to approximately 200 residents at five MHA public housing sites serving older adults and people with disabilities in Novato, San Rafael, and Strawberry.
Kruger Pines resident Edwin says: "It's a privilege to receive this laptop from the County. This will help with paying bills and taking care of Marin Housing paperwork. I can just do it all online and be done with it."
Rich Levine (County of Marin IST): "This is what we want for our residents, not to be intimidated by the technology. We give information out, we train our residents the best we can, at their level and at their pace."
The collaborative project also includes Marin County Free Library and Xfinity Comcast. LEARN MORE
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Civilian Oversight Commission Makes Debut
 A community-led commission made its debut with a goal of bolstering communication and transparency between the public and the County of Marin’s law enforcement agency.
The Civilian Oversight Commission kicked off with meeting at 10 AM Monday, August 25, in Suite 330 of the Civic Center, 3501 Civic Center Drive, San Rafael. District 3 members of the Commission include Marin City's Felecia Gaston and Tiburon's Doug Lee.
Goals of the kickoff meeting were to introduce commissioners and key staff, appoint a Chair, and determine their regular meeting schedule. Commissioners will receive an update on the recruitment of the Inspector General and discuss plans for the commission’s orientation and workplan.
County Volunteers and Interns Share Spotlight
The Marin County Board of Supervisors has recognized 137 outstanding volunteers and unpaid interns for their notable service in numerous County departments. The group, honored during the Board’s August 26 meeting, served in 16 of the County’s 22 departments and completed their roles between January 1, 2024, and January 16, 2025.
Volunteers and interns from District 3 include:
Belvedere
Samuel Lee, Youth Chair Intern and Marin 9 to 25 Program Intern, Board of Supervisors;
Tawny Strotz, Suicide Prevention Action Team Intern, Board of Supervisors
Mill Valley
Elinor Clark, Elections Intern, Elections Department;
Solveig Drexel, Pre-Law Intern, Public Defender’s Office;
Benjamin Johnson, High School Intern with the Radio Shop, Department of Public Works;
The late Larry Lewis, Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service/Auxiliary Communications Service Volunteer, Marin County Fire Department;
Evan Lichtblau, Public Guardian Intern Project, Health & Human Services Department;
Lucy Maher, Find Your Way Visioning Team Intern, Board of Supervisors;
Brooke McIntire, FIRE Foundry Intern, Marin County Fire Department;
Tula Peltz, Board of Supervisors School to Career Intern, Board of Supervisors
Sausalito
Kyrie Bryan, FIRE Foundry Intern, Marin County Fire Department;
Linda Davis, Volunteer Consumer Mediator, District Attorney’s Office;
Sunita Ellenby, Volunteer Fire Lookout, Marin County Fire Department (pictured above)
Tiburon
Kathleen Forte, Financial Abuse Specialist Team Volunteer, Health and Human Services Department;
Madison Herrero, Board of Supervisors Intern, Board of Supervisors;
Andie King, Homework Helpers Intern at the Corte Madera branch, Marin County Free Library;
Taino Morris, FIRE Foundry Intern, Marin County Fire Department
READ MORE
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Coming Soon: New Marin-Sonoma HOV Lane Hours
5:00 AM–10:00 AM and 3:00 PM–7:00 PM in Both Directions
New Lanes, New Gains. Join the HOV Diamond Dozen Challenge!
 With 52 miles of continuous HOV lanes between Marin and Sonoma targeted to open in September, it will be easier than ever to share the ride and cruise through traffic by taking transit, carpool, or vanpool. To celebrate, Marin Commutes, in coordination with GoSonoma Commutes, is launching the HOV Diamond Dozen Challenge— our longest seasonal challenge ever!
From September 1 through October 31, commuters traveling to and from Marin County will have more chances than ever to rack up rewards by logging shared trips!
Learn more and start logging trips at:
marincommutes.org/rewards/hov-diamond-dozen-challenge/
County Offers Invitation for Feedback on Food Safety Practices
Whether you're grabbing french fries from a food truck, picking up takeout, or dining at your favorite local spot, one thing matters to everyone: The food should be safe to eat. That’s where Marin County’s Environmental Health Services (EHS) steps in — working behind the scenes to help make sure the food you enjoy doesn’t make you sick.
The Environmental Health Services (EHS) division of the Marin County Community Development Agency (CDA) is looking for ways to help food-related businesses thrive.
EHS regulates all commercial food sales in Marin, and the agency is planning changes to its food permitting process to make it easier for businesses to keep customers safe and healthy. Businesses and consumers can help ensure that the changes EHS makes are ones that positively impact them by sharing ideas at the following events:
Community Workshop
October 10, morning
San Rafael Community Center
618 B Street, San Rafael, CA 94901
Questions? Call 415-473-6907 or e-mail EHS for more information.
LEARN MORE
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Storm Season Preparations are Underway
While it is easy to forget during the hot, dry months of summer, winters can bring intense storms to Marin, delivering significant impacts across the county, including downed trees, landslides, damaged roadways and flooded streets. Minimizing such impacts and reducing flood risk is the driving force behind the annual storm season preparations of Marin County Department of Public Works (DPW) staff every summer. READ MORE
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Civic Center Arts Gallery Spotlight
ADA 35: Making Waves
Now through September 4. 2025
Marin Civic Center
3501 Civic Center Drive, San Rafael
1st and 3rd Floor Galleries
Open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Marking the 35th anniversary of The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), this exhibit showcases works by artists from Cedars and Marin Ventures, two Marin County organizations that serve individuals with disabilities.
Bursting with color, creativity, and spirit, this Civic Center exhibit showcases the bold, expressive artwork of local artists with disabilities. Together, the exhibits honor the progress achieved since the passage of the ADA and create space to reflect, imagine, and push for full inclusion. MORE INFO
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Marin Green Home Tour
Learn From Your Neighbors How To Start Your Electrification Journey
 Acterra is thrilled to present the 2025 Marin Green@Home Tour! This exciting event will spotlight a variety of homes that have embraced electrification and sustainable practices, offering attendees a firsthand look at the benefits of replacing gas-powered appliances with cleaner, more efficient electric alternatives.
When: Saturday, September 27, 11am-3pm, throughout Marin
More Info: https://acterra.org/electrification/greenhome/home-tours/
RSVP: bit.ly/MarinGHT
Health Officers Urge Families to Prioritize Immunizations in Heading Back to School
As children and families across the region head back to school, Bay Area health officials urge everyone to make sure your back-to-school checklist starts with getting your child vaccinated.
Vaccines are safe, effective, and a routine part of preventative healthcare. They protect against serious diseases such as measles, pertussis (also known as whooping cough), and polio. Locally, health officials in Marin County are focused on the importance of upholding the credibility of vaccine science and ensuring fair access to these life-saving tools as essential steps toward promoting health equity and safeguarding the most vulnerable populations in our community. READ MORE
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Mark your calendars! The 6th Annual Marin City Job & Resource Fair will take place on Thursday, September 4, 2025. This event connects job seekers with local employers, training opportunities, and vital community resources. RSVP
Tam Valley Creekside Friday, September 5
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Join us at the Cabin for Creekside Unplugged from 5pm to 7:30 p.m. on Friday, September 5! Gather under the redwoods to listen to acoustic music. Bring your own picnic dinner and enjoy the evening with friends, family and a chance to meet your neighbors! They'll have face painting, picnic tables, room to spread out your blanket for a picnic and a great group of friends and neighbors. Come on down! We will see you there September 5th! |
Creekside Unplugged
September 5
The Cabin, 60 Tennessee Valley Road
Things to remember:
Wildfire Safety Festival Ember Stomp, September 6
 Don't miss Ember Stomp 2025 on September 6th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Marin Fairgrounds for an exciting day of community, learning, and fun! Enjoy live music, family-friendly activities, and hands-on exhibits focused on wildfire safety, climate resilience, and emergency preparedness. Highlights include a live burn demo, goats in action, expert tips from fire agencies, and a showcase of student art. Don’t miss this unique chance to connect, celebrate, and learn how we can all help protect what we love. MORE INFO
37th annual Marin Senior Fair, September 17
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Celebrate the vibrant lives of Marin County's older adults at the upcoming Marin Senior Fair! This annual event is the perfect opportunity to explore a wealth of resources, services, and activities tailored to seniors and their families. From health and wellness booths to live entertainment, there's something for everyone to enjoy. MORE INFO
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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 Commission on Aging, CSA #29 Paradise Cay, Library Commission, the Strawberry Design Review Board, among others.
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Marin County Youth Commission - Apply Now
 Founded in 1969, the Marin County Youth Commission (MCYC) is one of the oldest and most well-regarded youth commissions in the United States. Made up of 23 youth aged 12-23 years, MCYC acts as a political voice for young people — particularly those in underserved populations, including youth of color, youth with disabilities, homeless youth, rural youth, and LGBTQ youth — by engaging with the Marin County Board of Supervisors and other policy makers. MORE INFO
Commission Openings in District 3
Women's Commission: Apply by 09/30/2025 05:00 PM
Study issues, advise residents and officials on women's rights and discrimination, consult the Board of Supervisors, and recommend program improvements, including through hearings.
MORE INFO APPLY HERE
Library Commission: Apply by 10/31/2025 05:00 PM
The Commission serves as an advisory body to the Board, Library Director, and community, promotes public support for library services, and may act as the Oversight Committee for temporary tax measures.
MORE INFO APPLY HERE
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