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 Dear Friends and Neighbors,
As we move into the final weeks of the year, the season invites both reflection and celebration. The crisp air, the glow of lights, and the company of loved ones remind us of what makes this time of year so meaningful. It’s a time to connect—to each other, to the land we share, and to the future we’re building together.
In October, the Board of Supervisors advanced initiatives to strengthen housing, health, infrastructure, public safety, and civic engagement across Marin—each grounded in our shared values of equity, transparency, and care. Learn more about these actions later in this newsletter or by visiting Rodoni Reports online.
The community recognized our own Maria Niggle as Latina Leader of the Year, and we celebrated Richard Sloan’s 90th birthday with a resolution of the Board of Supervisors. We gathered to remember our colleague Mark Millberg and his years of dedicated public service. From hosting District 4 Community Conversations across San Geronimo Valley, Tomales, Dillon Beach, East San Rafael, and Central Marin, to welcoming graduates of the Canal Alliance Leadership Class at the Civic Center Board Chambers, each of these moments reflected the deep connections and shared values that make Marin so special.
As the Board of Supervisors prepare to mark Marin County’s 175th anniversary on November 18th, I invite you to reflect on our shared history and values that guide us into the future. We’ll close the year in festive spirit with the Marin Holiday Light Spectacular (November 28–January 4) at the Civic Center. This family friendly, free, immersive light and art experience will transform familiar spaces into something magical and welcoming for all ages, backgrounds, and traditions; a celebration of creativity, joy, and togetherness that captures the very best of Marin.
Wishing you warmth and light this season,
 Dennis Rodoni
County of Marin District 4 Supervisor
P.S. Join my office for November Community Conversations on November 12th in Point Reyes Station, November 17th in Stinson Beach, and November 19th in Muir Beach. Learn more online and RSVP today!
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Emergency Food Aid Moves Forward as CalFresh Benefits Are Restored — Amid Ongoing Uncertainty
In response to the federal suspension of CalFresh (SNAP) benefits, the Marin County Board of Supervisors swiftly approved $800,000 in emergency food assistance on November 4 to support local families. The sudden loss of benefits impacted over 15,500 Marin residents (including children, seniors, veterans, and unhoused individuals), leading to immediate surges in food insecurity and demand at local food banks. In partnership with the Marin Community Foundation (MCF) and the San Francisco-Marin Food Bank, the County is delivering critical aid. MCF contributed $500,000 and launched the Food on Every Table Fund, aiming to raise $3.3 million to support a coordinated, countywide response.
On November 6, a federal court ordered the USDA to resume CalFresh benefits, restoring payments that had been delayed from November 1–7. Many Marin households have now received their full EBT benefit amounts, with the remainder expected to be posted shortly as the state finalizes processing. This decision provides essential relief and helps stabilize Marin’s economy, which risked losing $5.4 million in monthly purchasing power during the disruption. However, on November 7, the Trump administration filed an Emergency Motion for Stay Pending Appeal, creating new uncertainty. While November benefits are being issued, the outcome of the appeal may impact distributions for December and beyond.
As the federal government shutdown continues, so too does the uncertainty and fear it brings, particularly for vulnerable households. Marin County remains steadfast in its commitment to respond swiftly and compassionately. Today, the County and its partners are operating three food distribution sites to ensure no one is left without support. In times of instability, Marin residents can count on local government and community partners to come together to meet urgent needs, provide clear information, and deliver services that reflect our values of equity, care, and community resilience. The Board of Supervisors will continue receiving updates as food assistance efforts and legal developments unfold.
Upholding Local Values and Defending Marin’s Future
As federal actions continue to threaten the well-being of vulnerable residents and local self-governance, Marin County has taken swift and principled action to protect our community. From the start of 2025, the Board of Supervisors reaffirmed its commitment to democracy, equity, and inclusion—adopting a resolution that upholds the rights of all residents, regardless of immigration status, and supporting the State’s investment in legal services for immigrant families. In response to federal proposals to restrict health coverage for undocumented residents, the Board advocated against cuts to Full Scope Medi-Cal, which supports nearly 13,000 Marin residents. In the face of ongoing uncertainty, the County allocated $500,000 for local immigration legal aid and emergency assistance, ensuring trusted nonprofits can continue serving those at risk.
As federal policies like H.R. 1 (“Big Beautiful Bill) move forward, the County stands in strong opposition, citing the bill’s dangerous impacts on healthcare, social services, and working families. In response to the loss of federal electric vehicle incentives, Marin Clean Energy expanded local EV rebate access, while the County will be adding its first-ever Climate Director and increasing staffing to meet local sustainability goals. The Board continues to reiterate its longstanding opposition to offshore oil and gas drilling, reaffirming local ordinances that ban related onshore infrastructure unless approved by Marin voters, and submitting formal comments against the inclusion of the Pacific Coast in new federal leasing proposals.
To protect local funding and autonomy, Marin has joined three federal lawsuits challenging recent executive actions that attempt to tie vital grants, such as those for affordable housing, public safety, and disaster response, to unrelated and unlawful political conditions. These legal actions underscore Marin’s role as a defender of equity, transparency, and local control. As national uncertainty continues, Marin County remains committed to building a community where all residents can live with dignity, opportunity, and stability, regardless of what happens in Washington, D.C.
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October in Action: Advancing Equity, Access, and Community Resilience Across Marin
In October, the Marin County Board of Supervisors advanced a wide range of initiatives focused on equity, inclusion, and improving everyday life for residents. Key actions included approving a new Bookmobile to expand library services in West Marin, funding upgrades to the Board Chambers AV system to improve public access and participation, and adopting measures to support public health and safety — including a new ordinance to restrict vape sales and a state grant to expand gun violence prevention efforts. The Board also reaffirmed its commitment to community service and civic engagement by honoring local leaders and recognizing United Against Hate Week.
The Board continued to invest in housing stability and community resilience, with contract renewals supporting older adults, people experiencing homelessness, and LGBTQ+ and transition-aged youth. The County also launched a multi-year effort to modernize the Community Development Agency, adopted new living wage standards, and began work on an Economic Vitality Strategic Plan. Environmental progress remained a priority, with new funding for restoration and infrastructure projects that protect Marin’s natural resources and prepare for climate change. These actions reflect a government working to meet community needs with care, transparency, and a long-term vision for equity and sustainability.
County Expands Meal Programs to Support Marin’s Older Adults
In October, the Marin County Board of Supervisors renewed a series of contracts to ensure continued access to nutritious meals for older adults across the county. These meal programs, part of the County’s Area Agency on Aging, play a critical role in addressing food insecurity and social isolation, especially among low-income seniors, older adults of color, and those living in rural areas. Through partnerships with West Marin Senior Services, Vivalon, and the Council on Aging, the County will help deliver more than 260,000 meals to older adults in the coming year.
The programs reach residents in a variety of ways. Vivalon will serve over 115,000 home-delivered meals in Central, Southern, and Northern Marin. West Marin Senior Services will deliver 11,000 meals to isolated seniors in the San Geronimo Valley and coastal communities. The Council on Aging will provide the central kitchen support to prepare more than 127,000 meals for homebound clients across Marin. Many of these services also include assessments and case management, ensuring a holistic approach to helping older adults live independently and with dignity.
These investments reflect Marin’s continued commitment to equity, aging in place, and community well-being. The programs are fully funded through federal, state, and local sources with no additional General Fund cost. With high satisfaction rates and growing demand, the County's support ensures that no older adult in Marin is left behind when it comes to accessing healthy food, community connection, and critical support services.
Investing in Public Safety and Health Across Marin
In October, the Marin County Board of Supervisors advanced several key actions to improve public safety, protect community health, and expand access to violence prevention resources. The Board accepted $829,000 in state funding through the State Crisis Intervention Program to strengthen the County’s response to gun violence and mental health crises. The initiative will fund community outreach, education on safe firearm storage and Gun Violence Restraining Orders (GVROs), and expand awareness of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. The effort will be led by a newly appointed Program Manager in partnership with the District Attorney’s Office, Health and Human Services, and local nonprofits.
The Board also introduced a new public health ordinance aimed at reducing youth access to tobacco and nicotine products. The proposed law—applicable to unincorporated areas of Marin—would ban the sale of vapes and heated tobacco devices, set a minimum price of $12 per pack of tobacco products, and prohibit discounting or coupon promotions. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to prevent youth addiction, protect public health, and reduce targeted marketing to low-income and marginalized communities. If adopted on November 18, the law will align Marin with more than 50 other California jurisdictions that have implemented similar safeguards.
In addition, October was recognized as both Domestic Violence Awareness Month and Cybersecurity Awareness Month. The Board reaffirmed its commitment to survivor safety and healthy relationships by honoring the work of the Center for Domestic Peace and the County’s Coordinated Community Response Network. The Board also highlighted the role of the Information Services and Technology Department in promoting digital safety and supporting Marin residents in navigating online threats. Together, these actions reflect the County’s ongoing commitment to creating a safe, informed, and healthy community for all.
Advancing Civic Engagement and Modern Service Delivery in Marin
In October, the Marin County Board of Supervisors took significant steps to improve civic access, digital equity, and customer service across County operations. At the center of these efforts is a $1.14 million investment to upgrade the Board Chambers’ Audio-Visual (AV) system, replacing outdated infrastructure with a modern, integrated setup that enhances public participation. The new system will support American Sign Language (ASL), dual-language captioning, and simultaneous interpretation, ensuring meetings are accessible to all residents—including those who are deaf, hard of hearing, or speak limited English. During construction, Board of Supervisors meetings will temporarily move to the Showcase Theater in January 2026, with a mobile AV system.
To complement these improvements, the Board approved the creation of a Digital Product Manager position, a role designed to lead the County’s digital service transformation. This position will focus on improving platforms like MarinCounty.gov and the upcoming FixItMarin 311 app, making County services easier to navigate and more user-friendly for all residents. With a strong emphasis on equity, accessibility, and user experience, this role will help bridge long-standing service gaps, especially for underserved communities that face digital barriers. This investment signals Marin’s commitment to a modern, data-informed, and resident-centered approach to local government.
Finally, the Board reviewed a comprehensive Organizational Excellence Report for the Community Development Agency (CDA), which lays out a multi-year roadmap to modernize one of the County’s most community-facing departments. The report identifies key priorities like improving customer service, streamlining permitting, and strengthening policy alignment, especially in areas like housing and environmental health. With over 70 action items and phased implementation starting in early 2026, this effort reflects the County’s broader commitment to transparency, responsiveness, and continuous improvement in service to the public. Together, these initiatives mark a significant step forward in building a more inclusive, accessible, and efficient local government.
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What’s Happening in November at the West Marin Multi-Service Center
The West Marin Health & Human Services Multi-Service Center in Point Reyes Station continues to serve as a vital hub for essential services, community programs, and wellness support. Located at 1 Sixth Street, the Center brings together County departments and community partners to provide free, low-barrier services in English and Spanish—all under one roof. Whether you're looking for help with health, housing, employment, or legal assistance, the Center is here to support you.
Throughout November 2025, residents can access a wide range of offerings including public assistance programs such as Medi-Cal, CalFresh, CalWorks, and Women, Infants & Children (WIC). Staff are available to assist with Medi-Cal eligibility, In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS), Aging & Adult Services, and West Marin Connections, which provides wraparound case management for individuals and families. The Center also offers information and referral services, behavioral health counseling and medication support, and Victim-Witness Advocacy for those impacted by crime or trauma.
This month’s calendar includes community events like Lotería Night (Nov. 20) and Closer to Home (Nov. 12), where residents can meet with County departments typically based in San Rafael. Weekly programming features bilingual peer support, therapy and case management, legal aid, job development with CareerTEAM, and hosting the small business training program, Emprende West Marin. Walk-ins are welcome for many services, and staff from Supervisor Rodoni’s office and Municipal Services are available on-site each week to assist with local needs.
Whether you're seeking health services, peer support, legal advice, or help navigating County programs, the Multi-Service Center is here for you. Most services are offered in English and Spanish, and walk-ins are welcome for many programs.
Stop by or call for additional information or to make an appointment Address: 1 Sixth Street, Point Reyes Station, CA 94956 Phone: 415-473-3800 Website
FixItMarin Pilot Launches in San Geronimo Valley
We’re excited to announce the launch of FixItMarin, a new digital tool designed to make it easier than ever for residents to report non-emergency issues like potholes, damaged street signs, and illegal dumping. Now piloting in the San Geronimo Valley, this app and website-based system lets users simply snap a photo, drop a pin on the map, and send their request directly to the County — all from their phone or computer.
FixItMarin is part of a Countywide effort to improve service delivery and public access through modern, user-friendly technology. The pilot is a collaboration between the Department of Public Works, Information Services and Technology, and the Office of the County Executive. So far, 39 requests have been submitted by 26 users. Community input is critical to the pilot’s success, and your feedback is helping us build a better experience in real time. Thank you to everyone who has downloaded the app and using it to report issues to the County team.
Looking ahead, we’re working to expand Spanish language access, add new service categories, and enhance coordination between departments to resolve issues faster and more efficiently. FixItMarin will roll out Countywide in 2026, but right now, your participation helps shape the future of responsive, accessible government.
Library Refresh Project Brings Exciting Updates to All 10 Branches
The Marin County Free Library’s 10-Branch Interior Refresh Project is officially underway! Beginning this month and continuing through June 2026, all ten MCFL branches will receive upgrades designed to make library spaces more welcoming, flexible, and functional for all ages. Funded by Measure B, the voter-approved parcel tax passed in 2022, this $2.5 million investment reflects our shared commitment to vibrant, inclusive public spaces.
Improvements will vary by location and include new carpeting, fresh paint, furniture upgrades, and more flexible areas for programming, study, and collaboration. These enhancements are guided by the MCFL Anti-Racism & Equity Strategic Plan, with each branch’s design tailored to better reflect and support the local community it serves. Whether it's a refreshed children's area, updated technology access, or cozier reading nooks, this project aims to elevate every visitor’s experience.
We encourage you to visit marinlibrary.org/refresh to see renderings, project timelines, and specific upgrade details by branch. Please note that temporary closures will occur at each location, beginning with Inverness, Stinson Beach, and Point Reyes this fall. Closure dates are posted on the website and updated as schedules shift. We appreciate your patience and enthusiasm as we work to bring new life to our library spaces—for today and the generations to come.
Supervisor Rodoni’s Fall Community Conversations Spotlight Local Priorities Across West Marin and East San Rafael
Throughout October, Supervisor Dennis Rodoni hosted a series of Community Conversations in San Geronimo Valley and Nicasio, Tomales and Dillon Beach, and East San Rafael—bringing together neighbors, community leaders, and County staff to exchange ideas, raise concerns, and collaborate on solutions. These gatherings continue to serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of local voices in shaping policy, services, and investments across Marin’s diverse communities.
In East San Rafael, more than 100 residents joined in person and online to discuss community safety, food access, housing, and trust in public systems. Residents raised urgent concerns about the federal CalFresh/SNAP benefit suspension, which could leave thousands without food. Supervisor Rodoni shared that the County is coordinating with the Marin Community Foundation and local partners to launch emergency food support. The community also highlighted the need for better immigration emergency response planning, improved access to services for those without literacy or internet access, and clearer tenant protections for residents facing rising utility costs. Updates on Pickleweed Park improvements, the Canal Boatyard acquisition, and a future bike/pedestrian bridge sparked enthusiasm about public space and mobility investments.
In Tomales and Dillon Beach residents discussed flooding, broadband expansion, local youth programming, and the County’s new FixItMarin app, while San Geronimo Valley conversations focused on road safety, illegal dumping, septic regulations, and creative youth-led ideas for solar energy and sustainability. Across all meetings, Supervisor Rodoni emphasized “One Marin” approach to collaboration, with initiatives like Closer to Home bringing County services directly into rural communities. These conversations reaffirm that while Marin’s challenges are real—affordable housing, aging infrastructure, and climate resilience—its greatest strength is the power of neighbors working together to create lasting solutions.
Save the Date!
November Community Conversations
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Point Reyes Station, Marshall, Olema, and Inverness
November 12, 2025
6:30 pm – 8:00 pm
West Marin School, 11550 Shoreline Highway, Point Reyes Station
RSVP
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Stinson Beach
November 17, 2025
6:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Stinson Beach Community Center, 32 Belvedere Ave., Stinson Beach
RSVP
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Muir Beach
November 19, 2025
6:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Zoom via www.muirbeachcsd.com
Join Us for Closer to Home on November 12
Supervisor Dennis Rodoni’s Closer to Home program continues to bring County departments and services directly to West Marin, making it easier for residents to get the support they need without traveling to San Rafael.
Whether you have questions about building permits, road closures, community planning, or public safety, this is your chance to meet in person with representatives from Community Development Agency, Public Works, the Sheriff’s Office, Probation, District Attorney, and Public Defender.
The last Closer to Home of 2025 is on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, from 2:00 to 6:00 PM at the West Marin Multi-Services Center, 1 6th Street, Point Reyes Station. If you miss us this month, we will be back in 2026 on January 14th.
Stop by to get your questions answered, stay informed, and access services, right here in West Marin.
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 Work for the County of Marin
Marin County is looking for creative, dedicated individuals committed to public service and community impact. With a wide range of job opportunities available, now is a great time to explore a career in local government. The County is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages applicants of all backgrounds, including people of color, women, and individuals with disabilities to apply.
Explore Job Openings
Volunteer for a Board or Commission
Marin County is seeking residents to serve on a variety of boards and commissions that help shape local policies and programs. These bodies play a vital role in ensuring transparency, community input, and effective use of public resources. If you’re passionate about local issues and want to make a difference, now is a great time to get involved.
Openings in West Marin: Measure W Oversight Committee, Measure A Community Oversight Committee, and the Stinson Beach Flood Control District Advisory Committee.
Marin Couty District 4 Team
Supervisor Rodoni, elected in 2016, and re-elected in March 2024, represents the residents of District 4 in the County of Marin. District 4 is the most geographically diverse district in the county, including coastal West Marin from
Dillon Beach to Muir Beach and Homestead Valley; inland agricultural and rural areas of Nicasio, Chileno Valley, San Geronimo Valley, and west Novato; and bayside and urban areas of east San Rafael, San Quentin, Corte Madera, and Larkspur.
County of Marin District Map
Supervisor Rodoni is one of five Supervisors responsible for the function of county government, serving as the governing board of the County Free Library and of many special districts such as Parks & Open Space District, Transit District, and the Housing Authority. The Board passes all ordinances governing the county and is responsible for seeing that mandated functions are properly discharged. The Board adopts the County budget; sets employee salaries and directs a wide variety of services to county residents.
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Dennis Rodoni
District 4 Supervisor
(415) 473-7331
Email Dennis
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As part of my goals for a more accessible and transparent government, District 4 aides are available for in-person assistance in West Marin twice weekly.
Monday, Point Reyes Station, Fernando Barreto
Friday, Point Reyes Station, Morgan Patton
Learn more on our District 4 webpage.
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