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Dear Neighbors,
I’d like to share some updates from my work on the Board of Supervisors and in our community.
Lately, my office has been focused on bringing Marin further into the digital age. We are now spearheading the development of a new 311 App that will give residents a user-friendly way to connect with County services. In the coming months, we’ll be launching a beta version in specific communities across Marin, and I’m excited to share more about it soon. This is just one of several initiatives underway to improve customer service and make County government more responsive and efficient.
I’ve also had the chance to explore new technology with my interns, including Placer.ai, which helps us better understand foot traffic and community trends. It’s been energizing to see how fresh perspectives can open the door to creative ways of applying innovation to County work. The interns will be presenting their findings to the Board of Supervisors soon.
In my role as a Board Member of the Bay Area Air District, I toured the Martinez Refinery and Waste Management facilities. These visits aren’t just about seeing operations—they’re about understanding how major facilities work, the impacts they have on surrounding communities, and the responsibility we share in balancing operations with environmental health.
And of course, one of the most important parts of my job is staying connected with you. Over the past few weeks, I’ve joined neighbors at the GPOA Neighborhood Social, Gerstle Park and Southern Hills National Night Out events, San Anselmo Live on the Avenue, and the TAM House BBQ. These gatherings are reminders of the strength and vibrancy of our community, and they give me the chance to listen and learn directly from you.
Thank you for continuing to share your time, your stories, and your ideas. I’m grateful for the trust you’ve placed in me and look forward to carrying this work forward together.
Sincerely,
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 As of mid-August 2025, CAL FIRE has reported 5,362 wildfires burning approximately 355,000 acres across California—already surpassing the five-year average of 302,500 acres. These numbers are more than statistics; they’re a wake-up call. Preparation isn’t something to put off for “later.” Later is now.
In a collaborative effort, the Marin County Fire Chiefs Association and the Marin County Police Chiefs Association are inviting all residents to take part in a County-Wide Self-Paced Evacuation Drill on Saturday, September 6, 2025. The goal of this drill is to strengthen community preparedness and resilience in the face of wildfires and other emergencies.
Residents are encouraged to practice a safe, voluntary evacuation by simulating a controlled departure from their homes and making their way to the Ember Stomp Wildfire Safety Festival at the Marin County Fairgrounds, 10 Avenue of the Flags, San Rafael.
This exercise will demonstrate a unified evacuation strategy between law enforcement and fire services while giving residents the chance to walk through their own evacuation procedures, including reviewing evacuation checklists and go-bags. It also supports Firewise Communities efforts, boosts community engagement, and helps ensure that agencies across the County are delivering consistent evacuation messages.
By participating, residents not only practice evacuation skills but also increase awareness of wildfire safety methods while engaging directly with experts and neighbors at Ember Stomp.
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This year as the Honorary Chair of FireSafe Marin, I am also an Ambassador for Ember Stomp! I want you to Mark your calendar for Saturday, September 6, 2025, from 10 AM to 4 PM at the Marin Civic Center Fairgrounds—Ember Stomp is back, and it’s bigger and bolder than ever. Organized by Fire Safe Marin, this free, family-friendly wildfire prevention festival is designed to help our community learn, connect, and get wildfire-ready.
Ember Stomp isn’t just an event—it’s action you can take. Witness live demos, get your questions answered, test your evacuation plan, and walk away with tools to better protect your home, your loved ones, and your community.
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What’s New and Exciting This Year:
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Live Fire Demonstrations: Catch comparisons between ember-resistant materials and others—every 30 minutes starting at 10:30 AM.
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Full‑Scale Home Hardening Display: See the latest in ember-resistant fencing, decking, gates, and other retrofits in action.
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Enhanced Fire‑Smart Landscaping Exhibit: Marin Master Gardeners bring defensible space zones (especially Zone 0) to life with design tips that are functional and beautiful.
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Climate Resilience & Wildfire Innovation: Explore interactive exhibits spotlighting the future of disaster preparedness, fire suppression, and resilience.
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Interactive Kids Zone: Featuring bilingual activities, art, storytelling, comedy, face painting, and more—fun for all ages.
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Goats at Work: Meet the grazing goats that help reduce wildfire fuel in local landscapes—yes, real goats.
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Student Art Gallery: Local K–12 students showcase their fire-resilient art—see the next generation’s vision for a safer future.
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County‑Wide Self‑Paced Evacuation Drill: Practice your evacuation strategy: drive to Ember Stomp, check‑in, and be entered to win one of five $1,000 prizes for wildfire safety upgrades, courtesy of CSAA Insurance.
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A community-led oversight body for the Marin County Sheriff’s Office is officially making its debut. The Civilian Oversight Commission was established to improve communication, trust, and transparency between the public and the Sheriff’s Office.
The commission’s kickoff meeting will take place at 10 AM on Monday, August 25, at the Civic Center, Suite 330, 3501 Civic Center Drive, San Rafael. The meeting agenda and staff report are available on the County website.
At this first meeting, commissioners and key staff will be introduced, a Chair will be appointed, and a regular meeting schedule will be determined. Commissioners will also receive an update on the recruitment of the Inspector General and discuss plans for the commission’s orientation and workplan.
Appointed in June, the commission consists of five representatives from Marin’s supervisorial districts and four at-large members, all Marin residents selected through an open recruitment process designed to ensure diverse representation. The commission is responsible for conducting oversight of the Sheriff’s Office operations and policies, reviewing complaints, producing annual reports, and providing input in the hiring of the Inspector General, who will support the commission’s work.
All meetings will be open to the public, and community members are encouraged to attend and participate.
🔗 Sign up to receive news and updates about the commission
🔗 Learn more on the Civilian Oversight Commission webpage
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I recently authored an op-ed in the Marin Independent Journal outlining a plan to reduce flood risk in Ross Valley. For too long, our community has lived with uncertainty every rainy season. My piece highlights how we can move projects forward, increase transparency, and deliver the flood protection residents and businesses need.
In addition to the op-ed, Marin County Flood Control staff will be presenting on the FEMA application to remove Building Bridge 2 and other flood mitigation efforts at upcoming meetings in Ross and San Anselmo. These presentations are a chance for community members to learn more, ask questions, and share feedback.
-- Read the full article here: Marin Voice: Supervisor Shares Plan for Ross Valley Flood Control
-- Find details on the Ross and San Anselmo meetings here: Meeting Information
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 Have you spotted a pothole, downed traffic sign, or another road issue in your neighborhood? Do you live in an UNINCORPORATED part of the county? The quickest way to get it on the County’s radar is to report it directly to Public Works.
Using the County’s online reporting tool is the first step toward getting the problem solved. Once submitted, your report goes straight to the team responsible for tracking and scheduling maintenance.
Every report helps Public Works prioritize repairs and keep our roads safe. If you see something, take a moment to submit it. Your input makes a difference.
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As part of Marin County’s 2025 Road Sealant Project, Sleepy Hollow recently received a sealant treatment and new striping. In advance of the sealing, several narrow shoulder areas were widened, creating more consistent bike lanes for travelers.
The sealant treatment is a cost-effective strategy that delivers smoother, safer conditions at a fraction of the cost of full reconstruction. A major pavement replacement can cost more than ten times as much, take years to plan and build, and consume significantly more natural resources. Sealant extends the road’s life with far less disruption, and it also allows for incremental improvements—slurry patch repairs cost only a few hundred dollars compared to tens of thousands for asphalt patching.
County staff are also continuing targeted improvements along Butterfield Road, including grant-supported projects such as a drainage inlet near Van Winkle Drive and a crosswalk at Irving Drive.
The Sleepy Hollow improvements were delivered through close collaboration among County divisions over the past two years and were completed ahead of the 2025 school year.
This work is one piece of a larger Countywide effort resurfacing about 25 miles of road this summer, spanning multiple communities and funded through a combination of SB 1 and local Road and Bridge funds.
👉 Learn more about the broader project here: Marin County DPW • 2025 Road Sealant Project
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 Fire Safe Marin has released “Fire Smart Yards: A Visual Guide”, a bilingual resource created for landscapers and community members. This guide uses clear visuals and real-world examples to show how landscaping can be both beautiful and wildfire-safe.
Printed copies are available upon request by emailing info@firesafemarin.org.
Explore the Flipbook here: Fire Smart Yards: A Visual Guide
Take a look, share with your neighbors, and use this resource to make your yard more resilient while keeping Marin’s natural beauty intact.
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Marin County is committed to supporting older adults and persons with disabilities in living healthy, independent, and connected lives. Through Aging and Adult Services, residents can access a wide range of programs that promote quality of life, safety, and dignity.
Funded by the U.S. federal government, the State of California, and the County of Marin, this multi-disciplinary system of care provides everything from case management and caregiver support to nutrition programs, housing assistance, protective services, and more.
If you or someone you know could benefit from these resources, help is just a phone call away.
📞 Marin Aging & Adult Information and Assistance Line
Available Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
(415) 473-INFO | (415-473-4636)
Find the service that’s right for you and connect with the support you need to thrive.
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The Find Your Way Scholarship Program, part of Marin 9 to 25, provides young people ages 12–25 the chance to earn up to $500 while engaging in youth-led wellness and community initiatives across Marin County Marin Prevention Network
These scholarship events, trainings, and collaborative meetings center around youth wellness and offer opportunities to connect, learn, and lead.
Whether you've received a scholarship or are interested in attending, this page is your one-stop hub for upcoming events, training sessions, and meetings designed with youth, for youth.
Interested in attending or need help with logistics like transportation? The Find Your Way team has you covered — visit the page to access the full calendar, find virtual and in-person event options, and reach out with any questions Marin 9 to 25.
** Learn more and access the full calendar here:** Scholarship Events & Meetings
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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 event:
October 10, morning
Community Workshop
San Rafael Community Center
618 B Street
San Rafael, CA 94901
Questions? Call 415-473-6907 or e-mail EHS for more information.
Whether you’re a food vendor, business owner, or community member, your feedback matters. Let’s help EHS update the permitting process to be more supportive for everyone.
EHS está buscando la opinión de la comunidad
La división de Servicios de Salud Ambiental (EHS, por sus siglas en inglés) de la Agencia de Desarrollo Comunitario del Condado de Marin (CDA) está buscando formas de apoyar el crecimiento de los negocios relacionados con alimentos.
EHS regula todas las ventas de alimentos comerciales en el condado y está planeando cambios en su proceso de permisos para que a los negocios les resulte más fácil mantener la seguridad y la salud de sus clientes.
Los negocios y los consumidores pueden ayudar a garantizar que los cambios que implemente EHS tengan un impacto positivo al compartir sus ideas en los siguientes eventos:
10 de octubre, mañana Taller Comunitario San Rafael Community Center 618 B Street San Rafael, CA 94901
¿Preguntas? Llame al 415-473-6907 o envíe un correo electrónico a EHS para más información.
Ya sea usted vendedor de alimentos, propietario de un negocio o miembro de la comunidad, su opinión es importante. Ayudemos a EHS a actualizar el proceso de concesión de permisos para que sea más favorable para todos.
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CSA16 - Greenbrae
Are you a Greenbrae resident with an interest in keeping your neighborhood beautiful? The County Service Area 16 (CSA 16) Advisory Board has openings for new members.
CSA 16 plays an important role in beautification and landscaping decisions throughout Greenbrae. Serving on the board is a great way to directly influence how public spaces are cared for and enhanced in your community.
To be eligible, you must live within the boundaries of Greenbrae. Advisory board members work with County staff to set priorities, review projects, and make recommendations that keep Greenbrae’s landscapes vibrant and welcoming.
If you’re ready to lend your voice and ideas, this is your chance to get involved and make a visible impact where you live.
👉 TO APPLY: visit the County of Marin Boards and Commissions page.
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This month, my team and I had the opportunity to tour the Martinez Refinery, a key facility for our region’s energy infrastructure. As a Director on the Bay Area Air District (BAAD), it is of particular interest to visit the place where 50% of the jet fuel for Bay Area airports is refined.
During our visit, we met with refinery staff, toured the operations, and asked in-depth questions about the facility’s processes, safety measures, and environmental practices. It was an informative experience that provided valuable insight into both the scale of refinery operations and the challenges of balancing energy production with environmental responsibility.
Opportunities like this are critical to ensuring that decision-makers are well informed about the facilities we regulate and the impacts they have on both our economy and our environment.
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 Building Bridge 2 from the South
As many of you are aware, Marin County has been working to address flooding issues in the Ross Valley. A key part of our current effort is the potential removal of Building Bridge 2 (BB2) (also known as Creek Park Plaza) in downtown San Anselmo.
In order for this to happen Marin County was required to submit the Conditional Letter of Map Revision (CLOMR) application to FEMA in July. This application is an essential step in the process, allowing FEMA to review proposed changes to the floodplain and floodway boundaries before the project can move forward.
In the coming days, Flood Zone staff will be presenting the application at the Town Council meetings of the Towns of Ross and San Anselmo. We invite you to attend these upcoming meetings, where we will explain the CLOMR process and its impact on the community. These meetings will also provide an opportunity to learn about the next steps in flood mitigation efforts for Ross Valley.
Additionally, should you wish to send questions or comments, staff will be reviewing them and forwarding any relevant feedback related to the CLOMR application to FEMA and the local floodplain managers at the towns of Ross and San Anselmo. While FEMA’s CLOMR process does not specifically seek public comments as part of the review, we want to gather feedback on the completed CLOMR so it can be considered during their review process.
FEMA’s review period also allows for public access to the CLOMR application files, providing an opportunity for the community to review and engage with the project’s details.
All questions can be sent to: FloodInquiries@MarinCounty.Gov and you can find the CLOMR application at this link: https://flooddistrict.marincounty.gov/bb2-clomr/
We encourage your participation in the meetings and welcome your feedback as we continue to work towards reducing flood risks and improving the resilience of our community.
Thank you for staying engaged with these important efforts.
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 As summer winds down, I want to take a moment to recognize the hard work and dedication of some brilliant young minds—my amazing interns. Their energy, curiosity, and fresh perspectives have truly made a meaningful difference in advancing our work across District 2.
From helping with digital projects to supporting key community events, they’ve brought enthusiasm and creativity to everything they do. Their commitment has been inspiring, and I’m proud to support these emerging leaders as they grow and shape the future of our community.
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PG&E Community Wildfire Safety Program
PG&E hosts webinars and events throughout the year where leaders provide updates on the Community Wildfire Safety Program and local projects. Attendees can ask questions and share feedback directly with PG&E staff.
Upcoming Webinars:
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Monday, August 26, 2025 | 5:30 PM
Wildfire Safety Webinar – All Customers
📞 Dial In: 888-989-9714 | Conference ID: 5148680
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Thursday, September 4, 2025 | 5:30 PM
Wildfire Safety Webinar – North Coast Region (Humboldt, Lake, Marin, Mendocino, Napa, Siskiyou, Sonoma, Trinity)
📞 Dial In: 888-810-3952 | Conference ID: 1345040
Cedars in the Garden - Through Fall
Cedars artists have been busy creating artwork inspired by the beauty of Marin Art and Garden Center—soaking in the sights, textures, and colors of nature. Now, their incredible creations are coming to life in a special dual-location exhibition!
From plein air paintings and pressed printmaking to garden-inspired poems, jewelry, ceramics, and sculptures—every piece is a unique expression of connection to the garden.
Closing reception at the Edible Garden Culinary Fundraiser on Sunday, September 14, 5pm to 8pm. https://maringarden.org/events/edible-garden-25/
Art from this collaboration will also be on display at Artist Within - A Cedars Gallery in San Anselmo, opening on August 22 and running through November 21.
Meet Wild Animals and Learn about their habitat - Aug 23
Join Ranger Shannon and special guest WildCare for an interactive presentation on their Wildlife Ambassador Program at Stafford Lake Park. Nothing is more memorable than meeting live wild animals and learning about their unique adaptations that enable them to survive. Participants will have the opportunity to meet three of WildCare's rescued, non-releasable wild animals during this unforgettable presentation. By sharing their rescue stories, these animals act as ambassadors for their species to raise awareness of their plight in the wild. No pets (except service dogs) are allowed. Adverse weather or poor air quality may cancel. Call (415) 473-2816 two hours before the event to confirm the status. Registration is required.
Documentary Screening: The Making of Fairfax - Sept 23rd
Join MHM Historian Marcie Miller for a special screening of a Fairfax Historical Society documentary on the development of the Town of Fairfax—from the funicular to the “picnic” trains that brought visitors (and future neighbors).
Admission: $10 per person
Questions / details:
📧 marcie@marinhistory.org
📞 415-446-8869
Live on the Avenue
Fridays & Saturdays, June 20 – September 27 | 6:00–8:30 PM
San Anselmo’s downtown comes alive all summer with free music, dining, and community connection. Enjoy Bay Area talent on two stages—Creek Park Amphitheater and Town Hall Plaza—while strolling, shopping, and relaxing with neighbors under the evening sky. I am there every week - make sure to say hi!
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Acterra is excited to announce the 2025 Marin Green@Home Tour, an engaging event that showcases fully and partially electrified homes while providing the community with firsthand insight into the benefits of transitioning away from gas appliances.
Participants will learn about improved energy efficiency, indoor air quality, water conservation, composting, and available rebates and incentives. By touring homes opened by fellow community members, you’ll have the chance to see practical upgrades in action and make informed, climate-friendly choices.
The tour takes place on Saturday, September 27, 2025.
Learn more here: https://acterra.org/electrification/greenhome/home-tours/
RSVP here: bit.ly/MarinGHT.
BECOME A TOUR HOST...
Acterra is seeking tour hosts who have low emission homes to volunteer for our Green@Home Tours. If you have converted at least two or three major appliances in your home from gas to electricity and are ready to showcase your home to the public, please complete the form below.
Tours take place throughout the year in the East Bay, Marin and the South Bay. This event is a great opportunity to highlight your sustainable home upgrades to your neighbors interested in combating climate change.
Questions? Contact greenhome@acterra.org.
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Hot Takes & Sound Waves:
What’s Filling My Brain Lately |
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 Tam House Annual Summer BBQ
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 Sons In Retirement @ McKinnis
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 Gerstle Park Neighborhood Association Meeting
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 Welcomed new Tam Union Superintendent Dr. Courtney Goode
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 The GPOA Neighborhood Social with Fire Safe Marin
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 Waste Management Tour, Novato
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Have you ever wanted to work at the County of Marin? Here is the list of the most recent positions available!
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San Rafael Level-Up Job Expo
In partnership with the Workforce Alliance of the North Bay, the San Rafael Chamber of Commerce, and the City of San Rafael, the inaugural San Rafael Level-Up Job Expo will be held on Thursday, September 25, from 4:00–7:00 PM at the San Rafael Community Center on B Street (next to Safeway). The event will include free childcare, on-site interview spaces, and networking over coffee and snacks. Resume and interview skills workshops will be offered ahead of the expo to help participants prepare, and community organizations will be tabling to provide wrap-around resources.
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Marin City Job & Resource Fair
The Marin City Community Development Corporation will host its 6th Annual Job and Resource Fair on Thursday, September 4, from 3:00–7:00 PM at St. Andrew’s Church. Employers, community organizations, and resource providers will be on site, with food and beverages, music, a raffle, and more. |
Marin Academy is looking for a Part-Time Advancement Operations Coordinator to join their Advancement team!
This role is ideal for someone who is detail-oriented, tech-savvy, and passionate about supporting systems that help an organization thrive. You would be handling everything from gift processing and database management to generating reports, coordinating donor communications, and partnering with colleagues across departments. |
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Senior Emergency Management Coordinator -- Marin County’s Office of Emergency Management is seeking a Senior Emergency Management Coordinator to strengthen emergency response, preparedness, and resilience. This role will focus on technology, GIS tools, and alert and warning systems, while also supporting emergency response, mitigation, recovery, training, and public outreach.
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