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Dear Neighbors,
September has been a month of connection, community, and momentum across Marin. From honoring our past to investing in our future, I’ve had the privilege of joining many of you at events that remind us of the strength and spirit of this county.
We began the month by recognizing Suicide Prevention Week, shining a light on the importance of mental health awareness and reminding our neighbors that help is always available. Together, we are working to break the stigma, expand support, and ensure that no one feels alone.
Wildfire safety remains top of mind. I was proud to join thousands of residents at Ember Stomp, Marin’s wildfire preparedness festival, where community members came together to learn, plan, and prepare. We also witnessed a demonstration of the PG&E Blackhawk helicopters now stationed in Marin to support rapid wildfire response. Seeing these powerful tools in action underscored the county’s commitment to protecting lives, property, and natural resources.
September also gave us opportunities to celebrate community. I joined the San Anselmo parade, a tradition that brings neighbors together in joy and civic pride. I also had the honor of hosting all of our District 2 Commissioners at the Civic Center to thank them for their service and dedication. These are the residents who devote countless hours to shaping policy and guiding the future of our county. Their contributions deserve recognition.
Investing in the next generation of leaders is equally important. This month, I traveled to Sacramento with our interns, giving them a firsthand look at the policymaking process and the importance of public service. We were able to meet with Assemblyman Damon Connolly and enjoyed a fascinating tour of the state capital. Their curiosity and energy give me great hope for Marin’s future.
We also celebrated our older residents at the Marin County Senior Fair at the Veterans Memorial Center, which welcomed more than 10,000 attendees throughout the day. It was a joy to see such strong participation and to highlight resources that support dignity, independence, and connection for older adults.
As we look ahead, we remain focused on housing, transportation, climate resilience, and building a Marin that works for everyone. Whether it’s preparing for wildfire season, celebrating the freedom to read during Banned Books Week, or strengthening our workforce housing projects like Oak Hill, we are moving forward together.
Thank you for your continued partnership, your voices, and your commitment to this community.
Cheers,
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 This month, our District 2 interns had the chance to tour the California State Capitol in Sacramento, gaining a firsthand look at how state government works. The day included a meeting with Assemblymember Damon Connolly, who shared insights on representing Marin in the Assembly and the importance of civic engagement at every level.
Later that week, our interns, Jessica Mendieta, Henry Houser, and Lizbeth Mendieta, presented at a Board of Supervisors meeting on how GPS data, through Placer.AI, can be used to support economic vitality in Marin County. Their work went far beyond simply exploring new technology. Through in-depth data analysis, interviews, and detailed reporting, they delivered valuable insights that will help guide Marin’s efforts to strengthen local businesses and community hubs.
Their excellence, creativity, and fresh perspectives have brought tremendous value to the County. These brilliant young minds represent the future of our community, and their contributions have been nothing short of inspiring.
You can view their full presentation here: Board of Supervisors Presentation
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 I had a chance to witness a demonstration of PG&E’s Blackhawk (BlueHawk) helicopter in Marin alongside Board President Mary Sackett and Marin County Fire Chief Jason Weber. It was eye-opening and reassuring, especially as wildfire season heats up.
This helicopter was placed into service in mid-June to improve rapid response in wildfire conditions. In Marin, they boost our ability to fight fires early; delivering water quickly, helping protect homes, natural landscape, and lives. The aircraft are capable of carrying up to 1,100 gallons in belly tanks or 900 gallons using long-line buckets, depending on terrain and fire type.
Witnessing the helicopters overhead, seeing the crews and equipment up close, helped clarify just how much added value they bring.
Why This Matters for Marin
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Faster response to wildfire starts
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Increased water delivery capacity in tough terrain
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Better coordination between PG&E, County Fire, and local agencies
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Greater public confidence in our wildfire suppression capabilities
As residents, it’s not just about seeing helicopters overhead, it’s about knowing we are more prepared. We still need everyone to do their part: maintain defensible space, stay alert during fire weather, and make sure you have a personal evacuation plan. Remember to sign up for AlertMarin for important life-saving information.
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Are you a food vendor, restaurant owner, or interested in food permitting?
Join us from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM at EHS’s Food Program Workshop on October 10 at the San Rafael Community Center, 618 B Street in San Rafael! Meet EHS staff and collaborate with fellow food facility operators and other jurisdictions to improve Marin County’s permitting and plan review process. This is your chance to share your experiences and work together on solutions that will benefit everyone. We look forward to productive discussions about how EHS can create a more streamlined process for all.
If you are interested in participating as a speaker or panelist at the workshop, please email food.workshop@marincounty.gov. Presenters and speakers will receive a free lunch from one of our food truck vendors!
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Voting begins in October and concludes on Tuesday, November 4, with a statewide special election on Proposition 50 (congressional redistricting). Marin voters will also decide on three local measures. You can find out more here.
Key Dates
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Sept 25 – Voter information guides mailed
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Oct 6 – Ballots mailed; in-person voting begins at the Elections Department (Civic Center, Suite 121)
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Oct 20 – Deadline to register and receive a ballot by mail
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Oct 25 – Nine in-person vote centers open on a staggered schedule
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Nov 4 – Election Day! Vote centers open 7 AM–8 PM
Voters can return ballots by mail, place them in an official drop box, or vote in person at any vote center. To register to vote please visit the State Board of Elections.
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 The Agricultural Institute of Marin (AIM), well known as the organizer of Marin’s farmers markets, is moving forward with plans for a new headquarters and permanent farmers market at the Marin County Civic Center in San Rafael.
On September 16, the Marin County Board of Supervisors will consider two actions: adoption of an environmental report that confirms impacts have been addressed through design and mitigation, and authorization of a 40-year lease agreement with AIM, which operates the Civic Center’s Thursday and Sunday markets.
The project supports County goals around food security, sustainability, health, and economic vitality. Founded in 1983, AIM has advanced sustainable agriculture and food access, with a focus on equity and resilience.
Project Highlights
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Location: 3.7-acre site known as the “Christmas Tree Lot,” adjacent to Highway 101, Civic Center Drive, and the SMART station.
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Parking: A 250-space parking lot under County management, except during AIM markets and special events.
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Facilities: A permanent, open-air farmers market with restrooms, weather protection, bicycle parking, and other community amenities.
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Expansion: In addition to Thursday and Sunday markets, a Tuesday market is planned.
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Innovation: A Food Innovation Hub will provide space for farm and food business development, garden and nutrition education, and climate-smart landscaping.
The new Center for Food & Agriculture will serve as a hub for local growers, food producers, and residents, combining year-round markets with education and innovation to strengthen Marin’s food system and community resilience.
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Our office is proud to join communities across the nation in recognizing Banned Books Week, October 5–11, 2025. This year’s theme, “Censorship Is So 1984. Read for Your Rights,” is a reminder that the freedom to read belongs to everyone. As part of this, I am sponsoring a ceremonial resolution to acknowledge the week, a
We have partnered with the Marin County Free Library to sponsor a Free Little Library of Banned Books. This collection will feature books that have been challenged or banned, along with resources to help the public learn more about why censorship occurs and how it impacts our communities.
The Banned Books Library will be stationed outside the Board of Supervisors Chambers throughout the week. We encourage you to stop by, pick up a book, and explore stories that broaden our understanding of one another and strengthen civic life. If you have a banned book that you would like to swap or donate, we welcome your contributions to help keep the library fresh and engaging.
Additionally, in San Anselmo, you can stop by the Marin Banned Books Week booth in San during Live on the Avenue every Friday and Saturday from 6:00 to 8:30 pm.
📚 For more information about Banned Books Week and resources from the American Library Association, visit bannedbooksweek.org.
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The Marin County Board of Supervisors is seeking applicants with experience financing and structuring real estate or housing developments to serve on the Marin County Public Financing Authority (MCPFA).
Terms for two MCPFA seats are scheduled to expire at the end of October 2025. To ensure a strong pool of candidates with the right expertise, the Board is accepting applications now. In August, the Board of Supervisors discussed the importance of recruiting members with real estate finance and structuring expertise. All current MCPFA members continue to serve in their existing roles.
The MCPFA, formed in 2023, is the governing board of a joint powers authority created to oversee financing and development of the Oak Hill Workforce Housing Project in unincorporated Larkspur, located between Larkspur Landing and San Quentin Village. The authority has the ability to issue tax-exempt bonds to fund construction and will retain ownership and development rights of the property, a former state-owned parcel identified in 2019 as a potential site to help address Marin’s housing needs.
The Oak Hill Workforce Housing project will provide 135 units for educators and County of Marin employees who qualify based on income. This project is public/private partnership with Educational Housing Partners, College of Marin, Marin Office of Educations, San Rafael City Schools, Novato Unified and the County. Educational Housing Partners is designated to manage construction once the project is fully permitted.
The Board is seeking applicants with:
- a strong background in real estate finance and structuring;
- experience in large-scale real estate financing, acquisitions, underwriting, asset management, and risk management; or
- familiarity with public financing tools and affordable housing development (highly desirable).
Applications are available on the County of Marin Boards and Commissions webpage.
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 Marin County and its partners are bringing good news to the September 25 meeting of the Marin County Public Financing Authority: the final state budget includes $7.5 million in support of the Oak Hill Workforce Housing Project.
The Oak Hill development will transform a former state-owned parcel near the Larkspur Ferry Terminal and Marin Country Mart into a 250-unit affordable community. Of these, 135 units will be reserved for educators, school support staff, County employees, and families earning 50% to 120% of Area Median Income, while nonprofit partner Eden Housing will deliver 115 units for extremely low- and low-income households.
This milestone follows years of collaboration. Since 2020, when surplus state land was first secured, the project has been championed in Sacramento by Senate President Pro Tem Mike McGuire. The new state funding helps close a financing gap caused by rising interest rates, enabling the project to move forward.
With total costs estimated at $120 million, the project will be financed through bonds issued by the Marin County Public Financing Authority, along with state and local grants and low-interest loans. Rents for a two-bedroom unit are projected to range from $1,836 to $2,938, depending on income level.
Housing affordability is one of Marin’s most pressing challenges. Nearly two-thirds of County employees commute from outside the county, adding to traffic, emissions, and cost-of-living burdens. A recent survey found 269 County employees expressed interest in renting at Oak Hill once units are complete. This development represents a first-of-its-kind model for Marin, providing affordable homes close to jobs and transit while supporting the local workforce.
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PG&E vegetation manager contractors "Core Tree Care" will be performing work on Sir Francis Drake Boulevard on the night of Friday, September 26 at 8:00pm through Saturday morning September 27 at 8:00am.
This work involves removing a large, unhealthy oak tree that overhangs Sir Francis Drake just north of the Laurel Grove intersection. Due to the hazards of removing a tree of this size next to the road, a full closure of Sir Francis Drake Boulevard between El Camino Bueno and Laurel Grove Avenue will be required during this time.
Through-traffic will be detoured down Shady Lane during the road closure.
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Have you met Marin County’s Permit Ombudsperson? The role was created to help residents, contractors, and design professionals navigate the often-complex permitting process.
Our Ombudsperson, Cristy Stanley, serves as a neutral point of contact when projects get stuck or face conflicting requirements, helping applicants find solutions and move forward. Beyond case-by-case support, the Ombudsperson also works to identify systemic challenges and recommend improvements so the entire permitting system runs more smoothly.
Whether you’re planning a remodel, building an ADU, or tackling a larger project, the Ombudsperson can help with:
- Clarifying rules and requirements
- Coordinating across departments
- Assisting with complex or sensitive cases
- Providing outreach and resources to improve permit applications
Learn more and connect with the Ombudsperson here: marincounty.gov/ombudsperson
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Financial exploitation impacts 1 in 5 older adults nationally, and with more than 35% of Marin’s population projected to be age 60+ by 2030, protecting older residents is a growing priority.
Marin’s Financial Abuse Specialist Team (FAST), a nationally recognized award-winning program, brings together volunteers and public agencies — including Adult Protective Services, the Public Guardian’s Office, the District Attorney, law enforcement, and the Marin Area Agency on Aging. FAST works to educate the community, investigate suspected abuse, and support victims.
FAST offers presentations tailored for older adults, caregivers, and families on how to spot scams, fraud, and theft. The team also assists agencies in reviewing and documenting financial abuse cases.
If you suspect financial abuse, call Adult Protective Services at (415) 473-2774. To report scams, visit ReportFraud.ftc.gov or call 877-FTC-HELP. To request a FAST presentation for your group, email HHSFAST@MarinCounty.gov.
Together, we can help safeguard Marin’s older adults and ensure they are supported with dignity and care.
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The Marin County Board of Supervisors has approved a new Paid Parental Leave (PPL) benefit, giving eligible employees dedicated paid time off to care for and bond with a new child. Unlike state or federal leave laws that often require the use of vacation, sick leave, or unpaid time, Marin’s policy provides paid leave specifically designed to meet the needs of new parents.
This action reflects the County’s commitment to family-friendly workplace practices. It strengthens our ability to recruit and retain a talented and diverse workforce, supports staff across all life stages, and ensures consistent benefits for both represented and unrepresented employees. By investing in employee well-being, Marin County is investing in more engaged staff and more effective public service for the community.
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The County of Marin has joined a coalition of cities and counties nationwide in a lawsuit to stop the enforcement of unlawful conditions on critical federal grants. The challenged Executive Orders seek to impose sweeping new requirements on programs funded through HUD, DOT, and HHS — jeopardizing essential investments in affordable housing, social services, public safety, transportation, and infrastructure.
Marin joined the case alongside San Diego County, the City of Alameda, and the City of Redwood City, expanding a lawsuit first filed in August by other California and out-of-state jurisdictions. A federal judge has already issued a temporary restraining order, but the Administration continues to signal its intent to impose the contested conditions. The coalition is now seeking a preliminary injunction to protect funding streams that local governments depend on to serve their communities.
For decades, these federal programs have sustained local economies and supported vital services for residents. Marin’s participation in the lawsuit helps ensure that Congressional funding continues to flow as intended; safeguarding the housing, safety, and infrastructure resources our community relies on.
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Did you feel that earthquake this week? Many homes in Marin built before 1980 with raised foundations are at greater risk of earthquake damage. A brace and bolt retrofit strengthens these homes by anchoring them securely to their foundation, helping prevent costly structural damage when the ground shakes.
California offers two programs to help homeowners cover the cost:
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Earthquake Brace + Bolt (EBB): Open to homeowners in select ZIP codes, regardless of insurance carrier. Grants of up to $3,000 are available, and income-eligible households (under $87,360/year) may qualify for supplemental funds that could cover up to 100% of retrofit costs.
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CEA Brace + Bolt (CEA BB): For policyholders with the California Earthquake Authority who receive an invitation to apply. Participants can get up to $3,000 toward retrofits, plus a discount of up to 25% on their earthquake insurance premiums once work is verified.
These programs are designed to make retrofits affordable, reduce earthquake damage, and reward proactive homeowners with lower insurance rates.
-- Check eligibility and program details here: earthquakeauthority.com
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Marin’s Safe Routes to Schools program is kicking off its annual Walk & Roll Wednesdays this fall, encouraging students and families to choose active and sustainable ways to get to school. Whether kids walk, bike, scoot, bus, or carpool, every trip reduces traffic, cuts greenhouse gas emissions, and helps children build healthy, lifelong habits.
Why It Matters
Transportation is the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in Marin County, with school-related traffic making up a noticeable share during morning peak hours. By walking or biking just one day a week, families can significantly reduce emissions and ease congestion around schools. Research also shows that children who walk or bike to school arrive more alert and ready to learn, while developing independence and safety skills.
What the Program Offers
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Education: Students learn pedestrian and bicycle safety through in-school programs and practice.
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Encouragement: Events like Walk & Roll Wednesdays and contests such as “Buddy Up” motivate students to travel together and build community.
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Support: Schools can register to host events and receive materials, including giveaways provided by AAA, to make participation fun and rewarding.
In past years, Marin’s Safe Routes to Schools program has reported thousands of students and families participating countywide, reducing car trips and promoting healthier, safer neighborhoods.
How to Join
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Check with your child’s school about Walk & Roll Wednesdays.
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Encourage your student to team up with friends or neighbors for the Buddy Up contest.
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Learn more and register your school at saferoutestoschools.org.
Let’s make this fall a season of healthier kids, stronger communities, and safer, more sustainable travel for Marin.
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Join Us at the DPW Fair
San Rafael: Mark your calendars! The Department of Public Works Fair is happening on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at the Veterans Memorial Auditorium (10 Avenue of the Flags, San Rafael).
-- Fair Hours (Open to the Public): 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
This free, family-friendly event will feature face painting, balloons, and music by a DJ. Visitors can also explore interactive demonstrations and educational tables hosted by DPW staff, highlighting the wide range of services and programs our department provides to Marin residents.
Fairfax: October 10–12, 2025, with a full weekend of activities for the trail stewardship and mountain biking community.
The event features a Freehub World Tour movie night on Friday, followed by presentations, workshops, rides, and a concert on Saturday, and a group ride on Sunday.
Part of a statewide series organized by CAMTB, the 2025 Summits bring together riders and stewards from across California to learn, share, and strengthen our trail community.
Learn more and get movie tickets: Access4Bikes.org
Authentic Kimchi Workshop
Ross: Wednesday, October 8, 2025, from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM at the Marin Art & Garden Center (30 Sir Francis Drake Blvd., Ross).
You’ll get to roll up your sleeves and make your own jar of kimchi using an authentic family recipe, learn the techniques of preparation, seasoning, and storage, and enjoy tasting two dishes made with kimchi: kimchi carbonara and a pork belly ssam (with vegan adaptations available).
Cost to attend is $170. Marin Art and Garden Center
Spaces are limited. Sign up in advance via the Marin Garden website or contact info@maringarden.org for more information.
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 Jam:
When the World Is Running Down
Bossant Ensemble
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 Listen:
AwPhooey: Radio Retrofit
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EmberStomp with Ross Valley Fire! |
Side By Side, Denim and Diamonds gala with Katie Rice Jones, Comms Manager |
Marin County Senior Fair Peter Rubens, Commission on Aging. |
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Met with Kaiser leadership team (from right to left: Itamar Bikszer MSN RN, Monika Klett-Dunbar RN, Dr. Armika Berkley, Brian, Naveen Kumar, MD)
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With Christine Abela from Fire Safe Marin |
Friends from Fire Safe Marin |
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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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Director of Advocacy & Movement Building
The Director of Advocacy and Movement Building is a pivotal leadership role that guides the agency’s policy and grassroots efforts to address the causes and consequences of poverty. This highly collaborative role engages closely with CAM leadership and clients internally as well as external partners, community members, elected officials, and government staff to elevate the lived experiences of community members across Marin and co-create policy solutions. The Director will develop and execute on an array of movement-building activities, leveraging CAM’s service-based expertise, data insights, and trusted relationships to build shared community power, shift narratives about poverty, and advocate for equitable solutions to eliminate poverty. |
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The San Rafael Chamber of Commerce is hiring a part-time Office Manager to help keep our office running smoothly and support our members and events. This role is the welcoming face of the Chamber, providing administrative and event support, assisting with membership, coordinating supplies and vendors, and helping bring programs like our Chamber Morning Program, Ribbon Cuttings, and Community Mixers to life. We’re looking for someone organized, people-focused, and proactive, with strong communication skills and experience in office management or administration.. |
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 This month, we had the privilege of hosting all of our District 2 Commissioners at the Marin County Civic Center to recognize and thank them for their service. Commissioners play a vital role in shaping policy, advising the Board of Supervisors, and ensuring that community voices are reflected in County decision-making.
From land use and transportation to health, equity, and the environment, their work often happens behind the scenes — but its impact is felt across our entire community. I am grateful for their dedication, expertise, and the countless hours they contribute to making Marin a stronger, more resilient, and more inclusive place to live.
District 2 is fortunate to have such engaged and thoughtful representatives guiding the work of our boards and commissions. Their service is a reminder that local government is strongest when it reflects the commitment and care of its community members.
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