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Dear Neighbors,
Spring has arrived across Marin, and with it comes a season of momentum, renewal, and community connection. From our hillsides and open spaces to our downtown corridors and neighborhood streets, there is a great deal happening across District 2 and throughout the county.
This month, I had the opportunity to travel to Washington, D.C. alongside county and transportation leaders to advocate for Marin priorities including wildfire resilience, transportation funding, housing, flood protection, and coastal preservation. Back home, we are seeing progress on local issues that matter every day: safer roads, infrastructure investment, youth opportunities, park stewardship, public health, and stronger local business districts.
You will also find many ways to get involved this season, whether by volunteering for Earth Day, applying to serve on a commission, supporting youth wellness, attending a community event, or sharing input on projects shaping our future.
My focus remains the same: practical progress, responsive government, and protecting the quality of life that makes Marin such a special place to call home.
Thank you for staying engaged and for the many ways you strengthen our community.
Sincerely,
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 This week, I joined Marin County and Transportation Authority of Marin leaders in Washington, D.C. for two days of advocacy meetings focused on securing federal support and advancing priorities that matter here at home.
Over a full schedule of meetings across Capitol Hill and at the U.S. Department of Transportation, we met directly with our Congressman Jared Huffman and Senator Adam Schiff, along with the offices of several members of Congress, the Federal Highway Administration, the National Association of Counties, and key congressional committee staff. Our mission was simple: make sure Marin’s voice is heard where national decisions are made.
Fighting for Safer, More Affordable Communities
One of the most important conversations centered on homeowner insurance availability and affordability. We met with both majority and minority staff of the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee to share the challenges Marin residents face as wildfire risk continues to impact coverage and costs. We also discussed federal wildfire resilience legislation and the need for stronger support for local prevention and preparedness efforts.
Protecting Our Coastline
We also raised Marin County’s strong opposition to renewed efforts to allow offshore oil drilling, fracking, and deep-sea mining off California’s coast. Marin has long stood with coastal counties to protect our marine environment, local economy, and treasured shoreline from these unnecessary risks.
Investing in Transportation and Infrastructure
With the Federal Highway Administration, we discussed transportation priorities and future infrastructure funding opportunities that can improve safety, reduce congestion, and modernize key corridors throughout Marin County. We also advocated for flood resilience priorities including the Santa Venetia Floodwall and the Corte Madera Creek Study.
Housing and Local Projects
With Senator Schiff and Congressman Huffman, we highlighted the importance of continued federal investment in Marin housing and community projects. That includes support already secured for the Fairfax–San Anselmo Children’s Center, Oak Hill workforce housing in unincorporated Larkspur, and West Marin workforce housing.
Supporting Our Immigrant Communities
We also met with congressional staff regarding recent federal immigration policy changes and their local impacts. We discussed Marin County’s ongoing commitment to protecting residents, supporting community-based legal and social service networks, and preserving access to critical federal funding that supports health, housing, and essential services.
Marin Leading on Innovation and Safety
Finally, we shared Marin’s leadership on youth e-bike safety and the responsible use of artificial intelligence in government. Marin’s experience is helping inform national conversations around public safety standards, innovation, and effective service delivery.
Supervisor Eric Lucan and I speaking with Congressman Huffman.
Why These Trips Matter
Federal decisions shape local outcomes every day, from roads and housing to disaster resilience and public safety. Showing up, building relationships, and advocating directly for Marin helps ensure our communities remain competitive for resources and heard in the national conversation.
I was proud to represent our county and continue bringing Marin’s priorities to the table.
 The Marin Delegation from left to right: Talia Smith, Susannah Mrazek, Supervisor Brian Colbert, Senator Adam Schiff, Supervisor Eric Lucan, County Executive Derek Johnson, TAM Exec Dir Anne Richman, and Sophie Helpard
National Association of Counties Executive Director Matthew Chase and I at NACo HQ.
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The Marin County Flood Control and Water Conservation District will host two community meetings in May to share updates on Corte Madera Creek flood control projects and gather public input on future priorities.
Both meetings cover the same information:
- Thursday, May 7, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. — Marin Catholic High School, 675 Sir Francis Drake Blvd., Kentfield
- Wednesday, May 20, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. — Marin Art and Garden Center, 30 Sir Francis Drake Blvd., Ross
The District will present the current status of flood risk reduction efforts, including which project elements may move forward, constraints affecting others, and key decisions ahead. While some project elements have been completed, regulatory and technical challenges have stalled others, prompting the District to pause and reassess next steps. Community feedback will help shape future priorities.
Can't attend? Share your input via the online survey.
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We are excited to share that speed feedback signs have now been installed on Wolfe Grade.
Thank you to neighborhood residents for your support and advocacy in helping move this effort forward. Community partnership plays an important role in delivering practical safety improvements like this one.
These new signs use the latest technology and include built-in data collection and analytics, which will help Public Works better understand traffic patterns and evaluate future safety needs.
This is a smart, targeted investment that supports safer driving behavior and helps improve conditions for everyone who uses Wolfe Grade.
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Over the next two years, District 2 residents should expect meaningful progress on the issues that matter most to our communities: improvements along Sir Francis Drake Boulevard, stronger wildfire prevention in Ross Valley, smarter flood protection for vulnerable neighborhoods, support for local business districts, and a County government that is easier to navigate and more responsive. While these priorities appear in a County planning document today, our focus is on delivering visible results in the years ahead. (Update on County Workplan and CIP)
District 2 Priorities
Sir Francis Drake Boulevard Corridor Improvements
The County is launching a visioning effort for the full Sir Francis Drake Boulevard corridor to explore roadway, transit, bicycle, pedestrian, and multimodal improvements. This creates an important opportunity to improve safety, reduce congestion, and strengthen mobility from Larkspur through San Anselmo to Fairfax.
Wildfire Prevention and Resilience
The workplan includes continued fuel reduction and shaded fuel break projects in Greater Ross Valley and the San Rafael–San Anselmo area. These investments are essential to improving preparedness and reducing wildfire risk in our hillside and open space communities.
Economic Vitality and Local Business Support
The County will develop a measurable Economic Vitality Strategic Plan focused on placemaking, employment sectors, tourism, and partnerships. This work can help strengthen local commercial districts in San Anselmo, Fairfax, Larkspur, and throughout Ross Valley.
Flood Protection and Infrastructure Planning
The County will also review Flood Zone governance and capital delivery systems to better address flood risk and climate resilience. This is particularly important for areas such as Kentfield and neighborhoods affected by recurring drainage and creek-related challenges.
Countywide Improvements That Benefit Everyone
Better Government Services
The County is developing a new strategic plan with measurable goals and performance standards to improve coordination, accountability, and service delivery across departments.
Smarter Infrastructure Management
New asset management tools with GIS capabilities will help the County better maintain roads, facilities, drainage systems, and public assets through more proactive planning.
Stronger Community Engagement
A new Public Engagement Playbook will establish countywide best practices for outreach, accessibility, and language inclusion so more residents can participate in decisions that affect them.
Climate and Transportation Coordination
The County is also advancing regional coordination on climate resilience and transportation improvements that support commuters, reduce emissions, and strengthen Marin’s long-term sustainability.
Looking Ahead
These priorities reflect the practical outcomes residents care about most: safer roads, wildfire preparedness, stronger local economies, flood resilience, and effective government services. District 2 will continue working to ensure these commitments translate into real progress on the ground.
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Community service continues to make a major impact across Marin County. During fiscal year 2024–2025, MarinShares volunteers and Marinterns student interns contributed more than 200,000 hours of service across County departments, representing an estimated value of $10 million.
A report accepted by the Marin County Board of Supervisors high-lighted participation from 8,564 volunteers and unpaid interns, along with 197 paid interns, serving in 19 County departments. Paid internship participation doubled over the prior year as more departments expanded opportunities for students.
Volunteers and interns supported a wide range of roles, including wildfire lookout, parks steward, elections ambassador, homework helper, Civic Center tour guide, and more. Many participants also turned service into careers, with the County hiring 24 student interns and four volunteers into County jobs during the fiscal year.
These programs reflect the best of Marin: civic spirit, community connection, and investing in the next generation of public service.
🔗 Learn more about MarinShares and Marinterns: https://www.marincounty.gov/depts/hr/volunteer-intern-programs
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On April 12, 2026, North Bay transit operators launched the Marin-Sonoma Coordinated Transit Service (MASCOTS) Plan, a collaborative effort among nine transit and funding agencies to grow ridership and improve the effectiveness of public transit services in the Highway 101 corridor. Riders will experience a more connected transit network, with better-timed connections and more travel options throughout the day across Marin and Sonoma counties and to and from San Francisco.
This includes more frequent SMART train service running earlier in the morning, later in the evening, and throughout the midday, along with improved connections to Golden Gate Transit services that reduce wait times and make trips more seamless.
Learn more at mascotsplan.org.
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Marin County Public Health has been awarded national accreditation through the Public Health Accreditation Board (PHAB), becoming just the 30th public health organization in California to achieve this distinction.
This important milestone recognizes Marin County’s leadership in delivering high-quality, data-driven, and equity-focused public health services. National reviewers praised Marin’s strong infrastructure, commitment to continuous improvement, and deep partnerships with community organizations.
The accreditation highlights work across a wide range of priorities, including expanding access to care, preventing disease, strengthening emergency preparedness, advancing behavioral health, and addressing health disparities.
It also reflects the dedication of Marin County’s public health professionals whose work helps keep our community safe, healthy, and resilient every day.
At a time when trusted local public health systems matter more than ever, this recognition affirms that Marin residents are served by a department committed to accountability, innovation, and excellence for generations to come.
🔗 Learn more about Marin County Public Health: https://www.marinhhs.org/public-health
🔗 Marin County Health & Human Services: https://www.marinhhs.org/
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Marin County is moving forward with an ambitious set of roadway improvements across unincorporated communities for the 2026 construction season, delivering expanded upgrades thanks to strong program performance and efficient project delivery.
This year’s work includes approximately 150 roadway segments covering nearly 57 miles, a 50% increase over last year. The 2026 season marks the second year of the County’s Five-Year Pavement Management Plan and reflects steady progress in improving local roads through smart planning and strategic investment.
For District 2 residents, key corridors scheduled for treatment include Sir Francis Drake Boulevard and College Avenue, with additional work in communities such as Kentfield. Surface treatments like slurry seal and microsurfacing help extend roadway life, improve driving conditions, and make the most of taxpayer dollars.
Over the past four construction seasons, Marin has improved its overall pavement network rating from “fair” to “good,” showing that long-term planning and consistent investment are producing real results.
🔗 View the County paving program map: https://public-works-marincounty.hub.arcgis.com/
🔗 Learn more about Marin County Public Works: https://www.marincounty.gov/depts/pw
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The Marin County Open Space District is moving forward with improvements to the Sorich Park Trail, with construction expected to begin in spring 2026 and take approximately four to six weeks.
This project will upgrade the trail to multiuse status, allowing cyclists in addition to hikers, dogs on leash, and equestrians. Planned improvements include widening the existing trail to four feet, strengthening the trail surface, improving drainage, and enhancing sight lines for visitor safety through selective thinning of small-diameter trees.
Sorich Park is an important connection between San Anselmo and surrounding neighborhoods, and this work reflects strong partnership to expand safe outdoor access while protecting the natural environment.
Additional trails within the park are governed by the Town of San Anselmo, which has also proposed new pedestrian trail and connector improvements within the park.
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The County of Marin has opened recruitment for two upcoming new terms on the Civilian Oversight Commission of the Marin County Sheriff’s Office. Applications will be accepted through May 24.
The available seats represent Supervisorial Districts 1 and 4 and are open to residents who live in those districts. The Marin County Board of Supervisors is expected to make appointments this summer, with new terms beginning August 1. Each appointment carries a three-year term.
The Commission is a nine-member, community-led body established to conduct independent oversight of the Marin County Sheriff’s Office and strengthen transparency, accountability, and public trust.
The recruitment process is administered by the Clerk of the Board, which posts vacancies, receives applications, and coordinates the appointment process. The application period is open through May 24. After the deadline, applications will be reviewed for eligibility and forwarded to the Board of Supervisors for consideration, with review and final appointments expected to take place in the summer at a public Board meeting
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Two Openings on Marin County Parks Commission – Apply by April 30
Marin County currently has two rare vacancies on the Parks Commission, the County’s primary advisory body on parks and open space matters.
Commissioners help provide guidance on budgets, capital projects, programs, and long-range planning that shape the future of Marin’s parks and open spaces. The Commission typically meets every other month for approximately two hours.
This is an excellent opportunity for residents who care about conservation, recreation, stewardship, and public service.
The application period is open through April 30. Those interested in learning more about the role and responsibilities are welcome to reach out with questions.
Apply here:
https://apps.marincounty.gov/BosBoardsCommissions/BoardPage.aspx?BrdId=88&return=search.aspx.
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The Fairfax Library will be closed April 30 through June 15 for exciting interior and exterior improvements designed to better serve the community. Planned upgrades include a new nature-themed children’s area, updated seating and workstations, refreshed outdoor reading spaces, and new carpet throughout the library. While work is underway, residents can continue to access services online 24/7, visit nearby branches including San Anselmo Library, or use the Bookmobile during onsite visits. A refreshed library is on the way. |
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The Marin County Fair is now accepting entries for its beloved Competitive Exhibits program. Bay Area residents of all ages are invited to showcase their creativity, craftsmanship, and talents at the Fair, happening July 1–5 in San Rafael.
Categories include fine art, photography, baking, preserved foods, floriculture, textiles, creative writing, livestock, small animals, and more. This year’s special “Stars, Stripes & Stories” categories celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with art chairs, masks, decorated hats, quilts, cakes, piñatas, and other creative entries.
New this year, the Fair is launching a Community Paper Quilt, inviting individuals, families, and groups to create a 6-by-6-inch square showing their life in Marin or what makes their community meaningful. Materials will be available at the Department of Cultural Services and on-site at the Fair. Squares may be dropped off between May 1 and July 5.
Deadlines vary by category. Learn more and enter at http://MarinFair.org/Exhibits
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The speed limit reduction on the county-maintained portion of Butterfield Road has now been completed. Following an evaluation made possible by recent changes in California state law, Marin County Department of Public Works determined the corridor qualifies as a residential district under the California Vehicle Code.
As a result, the speed limit was reduced from 30 MPH to 25 MPH on the county-maintained segment beginning near Oak Knoll Drive and extending to San Domenico School.
This is an important safety improvement for residents, students, families, cyclists, and pedestrians who rely on this corridor every day. Slower speeds help reduce collision severity and improve neighborhood livability.
We appreciate the continued partnership of Marin County Department of Public Works and the community in advancing practical safety improvements on local roads.
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The City of Larkspur is exploring the launch of a certified downtown farmers’ market and is inviting community input to help shape this exciting new community amenity. The proposed market would bring fresh seasonal produce, artisanal foods, and vibrant weekly activity to the heart of downtown in the parking lot near the American Legion.
In partnership with local stakeholders, including the Chamber of Commerce and an experienced market operator, the City is evaluating how a downtown market could support local businesses, create a gathering place for neighbors, and enhance the vitality of downtown Larkspur.
Community feedback will help guide key decisions on vendors, operations, and programming. Residents are encouraged to take the survey and share their ideas at www.cityoflarkspur.org/fmsurvey.
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Marin County Department of Public Works has released its 2026 Pavement Management Plan, with a strong focus on pavement sealing treatments countywide.
Pavement sealing is a best practice for extending roadway life. Applying seal coats at the right time helps prevent water intrusion, slows surface deterioration, and significantly delays the need for far more expensive rehabilitation or full reconstruction. Simply put: it is the smartest and most cost-effective tool for improving the County’s overall Pavement Condition Index (PCI).
The 2026 plan includes:
- Approximately 150 roadway segments
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About 57 lane miles of sealing and paving work
- A 50% increase over last year’s program
- Last year’s program was also 50% larger than the year before
That means Marin is accelerating investment in basic infrastructure and taking a more proactive approach to road maintenance.
This is how good government should work: maintaining assets early, spending wisely, and improving roads before they fail. We appreciate DPW’s continued leadership and commitment to long-term infrastructure stewardship..
District 2 Projects Include:
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Sleepy Hollow Area
- Deer Hollow Road
- Fawn Court
- Fawn Drive
- Oak Knoll Drive
- Oakcrest Road
- Sleepy Hollow Drive
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Kentfield / Greenbrae Area
- Acacia Avenue
- Berens Drive
- McAllister Avenue corridor
- College Avenue
- Kent Avenue
- Laurel Grove Avenue
- Woodland Road
- Good Hill Road
- Rancheria Road
- Tree Top Way
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Ross Valley / Fairfax Area
- Fairfax-Bolinas Road (multiple segments)
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Additional Neighborhood Streets
- Bretano Way
- La Cuesta Drive
- Los Cerros Drive area
- Rosebank Lane
- Stetson Avenue
- Toussin Avenue
- Tiburon Boulevard county-maintained segments
We appreciate the continued work of Marin County DPW to maintain critical infrastructure and invest in safer, smoother roads throughout District 2.
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Spring is here, and many residents are getting started on outdoor projects like planting trees, replacing fences, landscaping, installing mailboxes, or building patios. Before you begin any project that involves digging, remember to call 811 at least two business days in advance to have underground utility lines marked for free.
In Northern and Central California, there were more than 1,200 incidents in 2025 where underground utility lines were damaged during digging projects. The average repair cost is $3,500, and many of these incidents could have been avoided with one simple call.
Even shallow digging can strike gas, electric, water, sewer, or telecommunications lines. Underground utilities may be only a few inches below the surface due to erosion, shifting soil, or prior projects.
Calling 811 is free, fast, and helps protect your family, neighbors, and community infrastructure.
🔗 Call 811 or submit a request online at https://811express.com before you dig
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Young people in Marin looking to gain experience, earn income, and explore future career paths are encouraged to apply for the County’s Career Explorer Program.
This summer opportunity serves residents ages 15–21 and is especially focused on supporting youth who may need additional pathways into employment and professional development. Participants receive paid work experience while learning valuable skills that can support future success in school, work, and civic life.
The program begins with training sessions in mid-June covering topics such as personal finance, workplace readiness, and professional networking. Participants are then matched with internship placements in County offices and local nonprofit organizations across Marin.
The summer session runs from June 15 through August 7, with applications due by May 8 at 11:59 PM.
For more information, contact the Marin County Probation Department at (415) 473-6599.
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From our protected coastline to our redwood ridgelines, from open space preserves to neighborhood parks, Marin is one of the most extraordinary places in the world to call home.
Earth Day is a reminder that this beauty did not happen by accident. It exists because generations before us chose to protect it, steward it, and think beyond their own time. Now it is our turn.
Whether it is keeping trails open, preserving habitat, reducing wildfire risk, protecting creeks and bays, or ensuring future generations can experience the same coastline-to-mountain beauty we enjoy today, stewardship matters.
I encourage everyone to visit the Marin County Parks webpage, explore volunteer opportunities, and find a way to give a little something back to the earth this month.
Marin’s natural landscape is our shared inheritance and our shared responsibility. Let’s keep it that way.
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May is Wildfire Preparedness Month, and agencies across Marin are coming together to help residents get ready for fire season with practical information, tools, and community action.
Throughout the month, Marin Wildfire, Fire Safe Marin, and partner agencies will share resources on defensible space, home hardening, evacuation readiness, vegetation management, and other important preparedness steps residents can take now.
A major kickoff will take place on May 2 with the Marin Wildfire Preparedness Public Forum and release of the updated Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP). May 2 will also feature a countywide Day of Action encouraging residents to register for Chipper Days as part of National Wildfire Community Preparedness Day.
Preparedness starts at home, and small actions taken now can make a big difference later.
🔗 Learn more: https://firesafemarin.org
🔗 Marin Wildfire Prevention Authority: https://marinwildfire.org
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Caregiving for a loved one with dementia can be rewarding, but it can also be exhausting. On May 11, the Marin County Commission on Aging will host a presentation on Three Cheers, an innovative new respite care program launching in Marin through Mt. Tamalpais United Methodist Church. The program will offer social engagement for participants and much-needed support for family caregivers. Community members are welcome to attend at Marin Wildfire Protection Authority Board Room or via Zoom. |
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May is packed with opportunities to explore Marin’s rich history. Highlights include Marin Community History Day on May 2, the Bon Air Community Fair on May 16, and a Downtown Fairfax walking tour on May 17. Throughout the month, the Marin History Museum and local partners are offering events that bring our shared past to life. It is a great chance to learn more about the people, places, and stories that shaped Marin County while supporting local cultural institutions |
Looking to lower energy bills and make your home more sustainable? Join Our Bright Future: Clean Energy Expo on Saturday, May 16, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sherman Avenue in Novato. Explore electric vehicles and e-bikes, learn about solar, battery storage, and home electrification, and connect with experts about rebates and incentives. Enjoy food, giveaways, and community booths while discovering practical ways to save money and reduce emissions. Hosted by the City of Novato with regional partners. |
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Support youth wellness in Marin at Find Your Way Through the Garden, an evening of impact hosted by Marin 9 to 25. This special event helps connect young people with accessible resources and supports youth-led wellness initiatives across Marin.Thursday, May 21 from 5:30–7:30 PM. Set in the beautiful Marin Art and Garden Center, the evening is a chance to invest in programs that help local youth lead healthy, connected, and fulfilling lives. Learn more and support this important work. |
This May, Marin County Department of Health and Human Services, through Behavioral Health and Recovery Services and community partners, invites residents to participate in Mental Health Month with more than 10 free events focused on wellness, connection, and reducing stigma.
Programs throughout May include wellness activities, storytelling, and community conversations designed to promote healing and remind residents that support is available. Select events will also be offered in Spanish..
Thursday, May 14
6:00–7:30 PM
College of Marin, Center for Student Success
835 College Avenue, Kentfield
All events are free. Registration for featured events is available via Eventbrite.
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Residents are invited to attend the Annual MCYC 2026 Wellness Festival, a community event focused on health, wellness, and connection. The festival will bring together local organizations, resources, activities, and opportunities to support physical and mental well-being in a fun and welcoming setting.
The event will also highlight youth leadership and community engagement, including participation from Marin’s Youth Commission and other young leaders helping shape a healthier future for our county.
Events like this strengthen community ties while connecting residents with tools and information that support healthier lives.
For event details and tickets.
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Hot Takes & Sound Waves:
What’s Filling My Brain Lately |
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 4th Annual Marin Pow Wow at College of Marin with Assessor Shelly Scott and Magali Limeta, Novato City School Board
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 I sponsored a resolution in partnership with Behavioral Health and Recovery Services proclaiming May as Mental Health Awareness Month
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 Congratulations to the College of Marin Ideation Challenge Winners! Varun Sanjeev (1st Place: AI Transfer Agent), Meztli Mendieta (2nd Place: Coffee and Careers), and Michael Dechabert (3rd Place: Cultural Fusion Fair).
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 Opening of the new Larkspur Library with Sarah Margulies Larkspur Council and Dan Schwarz, Town Manager.
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 Marin County Free Library is Celebrating National Library Week
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 Visiting the Lincoln Memorial at night with County Executive Derek Johnson
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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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Marin Community Clinics is seeking applicants for a Director of Revenue Cycle Management, a leadership role focused on overseeing billing operations, financial performance, and revenue cycle strategy in support of community healthcare services.
Learn more and apply here.
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Program Director, Safe Routes to Schools
MCBC seeks a Program Director, Safe Routes to Schools to lead organization-wide education and encouragement programs, including the nationally acclaimed Safe Routes to Schools (SR2S) program. A key leader in MCBC’s vision to “spread the joy of bicycling,” the Director oversees a team of eight part-time staff promoting safe, active and shared travel for K–12 schools. To apply and get more information, click here. Please submit your resume and cover letter to jobs@marinbike.org with the subject line: “Program Director – [Your Full Name]” No phone calls, please.
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