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Dear Neighbors,
As we head into the heart of summer, I want to share several updates from around District 2 and Marin County, along with some important information to help you stay informed and prepared.
The Board of Supervisors recently adopted the County's Fiscal Years 2026–28 Budget, which continues our commitment to maintaining essential services while making strategic investments in public safety, infrastructure, emergency preparedness, climate resilience, economic vitality, and the health and well-being of our community. The budget also advances several priorities that directly benefit District 2, including the Sir Francis Drake Corridor Study, flood protection efforts, traffic safety improvements, and other infrastructure projects that will strengthen our communities for years to come.
Emergency preparedness remains one of my highest priorities. While wildfire season is never far from mind, our community also faces flood risks throughout the year. The County recently adopted an updated Emergency Operations Plan, incorporating lessons learned from recent emergencies and strengthening coordination across agencies. I also encourage everyone to take a few minutes to prepare your household, sign up for AlertMarin, and stay informed as King Tides and future storm events remind us of the importance of planning ahead.
Many of you have followed the progress of the Building Bridge 2 project in downtown San Anselmo. While the temporary closure of Creek Park Plaza is disappointing, public safety must come first. Necessary structural repairs are underway, and I remain committed to seeing this important community space safely reopened as part of the broader vision for a vibrant downtown and improved flood protection.
I'm also excited to see continued investments in Marin's future. The County is moving forward with development of a countywide Economic Vitality Strategic Plan to support local businesses, innovation, workforce development, and thriving commercial districts. At the same time, we're welcoming our first Chief Climate Officer, whose leadership will help advance long-term solutions for sea level rise, wildfire resilience, flood protection, and sustainability.
Summer also brings opportunities to celebrate the incredible creativity and diversity of Marin. Congratulations to this year's recipients of the Marin Cultural Association Arts Grants, whose work enriches communities throughout the county. I also hope you'll enjoy everything the Marin County Fair has to offer, from live entertainment and local exhibits to agricultural displays and family activities.
Finally, I want to extend a warm welcome to our District 2 summer interns. Public service is strengthened when the next generation becomes engaged, and I look forward to seeing the ideas and enthusiasm they bring to our office over the coming months.
Thank you, as always, for staying engaged in our community. Whether through attending meetings, reaching out with concerns, volunteering, or simply checking in with these updates, your involvement helps make District 2 a stronger and more connected place to live.
Wishing you and your family a safe, enjoyable summer.
Cheers,
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The Marin County Board of Supervisors has approved the County’s Fiscal Years 2026–28 Budget and Financial Plan, a balanced budget that continues funding essential services while preparing for economic uncertainty and potential federal funding changes.
The adopted budget includes $902.6 million in total spending for Fiscal Year 2026–27, with investments focused on public safety, health and human services, infrastructure, climate programs, and community well-being.
Recognizing the potential impacts of federal policy changes, the budget includes $4 million in targeted funding for community-based services, including food security programs, local nonprofits, access to benefits, and immigration support services. The County has also committed $1.5 million over two years to immigrant legal defense and assistance programs.
For District 2, the budget includes funding for the Sir Francis Drake Corridor Study, traffic and safety improvements on major roadways, and multiple capital projects through the Department of Public Works. It also advances flood protection and creek improvement efforts, economic vitality and innovation initiatives, emergency preparedness and resilience planning, housing investments, and climate resilience projects.
County leaders emphasized maintaining core services, protecting vulnerable residents, addressing deferred maintenance, and preserving financial stability while remaining flexible as economic conditions evolve.
Learn more about the County budget process and priorities on the County Executive’s Budget and Priority Setting webpage.
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 The Marin County Open Space District has completed improvements to the Sorich Park Trail, and the upgraded trail is now open for public use.
The project converted the trail to a multiuse route, welcoming cyclists in addition to hikers, equestrians, and dogs on leash. Improvements included widening the trail to four feet, strengthening the trail surface, improving drainage, and enhancing sight lines through selective thinning of small-diameter trees to improve safety for all visitors.
Sorich Park is an important connection between San Anselmo and surrounding neighborhoods, and these improvements expand safe outdoor recreation while protecting the area's natural environment.
Looking ahead, the Town of San Anselmo is pursuing approvals for a new hiking-only connector trail that would link Sorich Park to Cemetery Fire Road across Town and Tamalpais Cemetery properties, further expanding trail access for the community.
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At the last meeting, the Marin County Board of Supervisors has approved joining an amicus brief supporting litigation challenging a proposed federal immigration detention facility planned near Gilroy in southern Santa Clara County.
The lawsuit, brought by the California Attorney General and Santa Clara County, argues that the project moved forward without required local review and permitting processes. Marin County's participation reflects the County's position that all levels of government must follow established legal requirements and that courts play an important role in determining whether those requirements have been met.
The County has also continued investing in services that support immigrant families, including legal assistance, emergency support, and community education programs. Since 2025, the Board of Supervisors has committed a total of $1.5 million over two years toward immigrant support services and rapid response efforts.
Residents seeking immigration-related resources can access information through the County's immigrant assistance webpage or contact the Marin Rapid Response Network hotline at 415-991-4545.
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The Marin County Community Development Agency (CDA) is warning planning and building permit applicants about a phishing scam involving fraudulent emails requesting payment for permit-related fees.
The scam emails appear to come from CDA Director Sarah Jones and include fake invoices for administrative fees. County officials emphasize that these emails are not legitimate and were not sent by CDA.
Permit payments are only requested through official County channels. CDA will never ask applicants to pay by wire transfer, Zelle, Venmo, PayPal, or other payment apps.
Residents and permit applicants should carefully verify the sender's email address, avoid clicking suspicious links or attachments, and contact CDA directly before making any payment if they are unsure. Anyone who receives a suspicious invoice or payment request should contact the CDA Permit Ombudsperson to verify its authenticity before sending money.
This scam serves as an important reminder to stay vigilant and confirm payment requests through official County sources.
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The Marin County Board of Supervisors has adopted a new countywide Emergency Operations Plan (EOP), strengthening how local agencies coordinate before, during, and after emergencies. Developed by the Office of Emergency Management, the updated plan incorporates lessons learned from recent wildfires, floods, severe storms, public health emergencies, and power outages.
The EOP serves as Marin's roadmap for emergency response, helping protect public safety, coordinate evacuations and sheltering, maintain essential services, provide timely public information, and support community recovery. The plan also emphasizes accessibility, language access, and equity to ensure all residents can receive support during emergencies.
Residents can review the plan, learn about preparedness resources, and provide feedback at http://MarinCounty.gov/EOP. Remember: resilience starts at home. Creating an emergency plan for your household is one of the best ways to prepare for future disasters.
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The Town of San Anselmo and Marin County Flood Control have announced that the Creek Park Plaza/Building Bridge 2 (BB2) area will remain closed while necessary structural repairs are completed.
A recent engineering evaluation found that portions of the underlying structure require reinforcement before the plaza can safely be reopened for public use. As a result, the space will not be available for the start of this summer's Live on the Avenue event series.
While the delay is disappointing, Town and County officials emphasized that public safety must come first. Live on the Avenue will continue as scheduled, but the fenced plaza area will remain closed until repairs are completed and the site is deemed safe for public access.
The Town and Flood Control District remain committed to reopening the space as part of the broader vision for a revitalized Creek Park and vibrant downtown San Anselmo. Additional updates are expected following the June 25 Flood Zone 9 Advisory Board meeting.
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The Marin County Open Space District (MCOSD) announces that construction will start soon on the first of two new trail bridges in the Cascade Canyon Preserve in Fairfax. This project will improve safety for trail users, make it easier for visitors to access the preserve, and protect the delicate aquatic habitat along San Anselmo Creek.
Important Dates to Note
- Preparation Work: Starting around mid-July, crews will begin preliminary work such as surveying and marking the site, protecting trees, and staging materials.
- Bridge Construction: The main construction is set to begin on August 3, 2026, and is expected to last until the end of October.
What to Expect During Construction
- Construction will generally take place Monday - Friday, from 8:00am to 4:00pm.
- Look for informational signs at the entrances of the preserve beginning in early July.
- There will be orange fencing in the areas where construction is taking place.
- Crews will use protective coverings around nearby trees to prevent damage.
- Expect to see construction vehicles, like excavators and dump trucks, as well as materials like rock, concrete, and lumber staged for use.
- To protect local plants and wildlife, trained biological monitors will be on-site throughout construction.
Temporary Trail Closures
For everyone's safety, please note the following closures during construction:
- Cascade Fire Road and Highwater Trail will be closed to the public Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Access to the interior of the preserve will not be possible during these hours.
- You can enter and leave the preserve before 8:00 a.m., after 4:00 p.m., and on weekends.
- Canyon Trail and Carey Camp Loop Trail will remain open.
MCOSD appreciates your understanding and patience as we work on this important project to enhance trails and protect the environment.
For more information, please visit the Cascade Trail Bridges Project page or contact Senior Natural Resources Planner Jason Hoorn at Jason.Hoorn@MarinCounty.gov.
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As the Fourth of July holiday approaches, Marin County is reminding residents to celebrate responsibly and never drive under the influence.
On June 11, the Marin County Probation Department, in partnership with the Marin County Sheriff's Office, conducted a DUI compliance operation to ensure individuals on supervised probation were following court-ordered conditions. The operation included residence and vehicle searches, drug testing, and compliance checks, resulting in four probation violations and two arrests.
Results of the operation included:
- 32 potential contacts
- 24 contacts made
- 16 attempts conducted
- 16 drug tests administered
- 23 residence searches completed
- 6 vehicle searches conducted
- 4 probation violations identified
- 2 arrests made
These operations help promote accountability, reduce repeat offenses, and improve public safety. By combining supervision with access to resources and support, Marin County works to help individuals make positive changes while keeping our roads and communities safe.
Whether attending a backyard barbecue, community celebration, or fireworks event, residents are encouraged to plan ahead, designate a sober driver, use rideshare services, or arrange alternative transportation. A safe celebration starts with making responsible choices before getting behind the wheel.
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This year, as we celebrate Juneteenth and prepare to mark the 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026, we have an opportunity to reflect on our nation's history, our progress, and the work that remains ahead.
Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, when the last enslaved African Americans in Texas learned of their freedom. It is a day to honor resilience, celebrate the contributions of Black Americans, and recognize the ongoing pursuit of liberty and equality.
As our nation approaches its 250th anniversary, we are reminded that the American story is one of continual growth. Each generation has worked to expand the promise of freedom and opportunity to more people.
The significance of this moment does not escape me. As Marin County's first Black Supervisor, I am deeply aware of those who came before me, broke barriers, and created opportunities for others. Their courage and perseverance helped make my service possible, and I carry that responsibility with gratitude and humility.
While I was unable to attend this year's celebration, my aide, Sonia Saltzman, had the honor of presenting the 2026 Black Excellence Award to San Anselmo Vice Mayor Chantel Walker on my behalf. The award recognizes Vice Mayor Walker's outstanding leadership, lifelong commitment to public service, and dedication to advancing opportunity and strengthening communities throughout Marin County.
Juneteenth and America's 250th anniversary invite us to celebrate how far we have come while continuing to build a future where every person has the opportunity to succeed, contribute, and belong. That work is never finished, but it is a responsibility we share together.
Pictured above: Chitoka Webb, Minister, Vice Mayor Chantel Walker, Sonia Saltzman, and Dr. Linda Lane-Bortell, Pastor.
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WildCare's education team is hitting the road with a new Nature Van, expanding its ability to bring hands-on wildlife education directly into local classrooms.
The new van provides dedicated storage and custom shelving, allowing educators to transport a wider variety of taxidermy specimens, skeletons, and other educational materials. Students can see wildlife up close, learn about local ecosystems, and develop a deeper understanding of the animals that share our communities.
The van also makes it easier for WildCare staff to offer more programs each day and reach more schools throughout the region. Nature Van programs are available in English, Spanish, or bilingually and are aligned with Next Generation Science Standards, helping reinforce classroom learning through real-world experiences.
WildCare has been inspiring curiosity and environmental stewardship in young people for decades. This new investment will help bring those opportunities to even more students in the years ahead.
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Marin County is taking the next step in strengthening our local economy with the development of a new countywide Economic Vitality Strategic Plan.
The Board of Supervisors recently approved a contract with economic development consultants to help create a roadmap for long-term economic success. The plan will build on previous work while addressing the changing realities of today's economy, including workforce needs, housing challenges, business growth, innovation, and community vitality.
As one of the Board's top priorities, economic vitality is about more than jobs and business development. It is about creating vibrant communities, supporting local entrepreneurs, attracting and retaining talent, strengthening public spaces, and ensuring residents have opportunities to live and work in Marin.
The new plan will incorporate lessons learned from the County's 2025 learning exchange with San Luis Obispo, where community leaders explored successful approaches to placemaking, workforce development, and regional collaboration. It will also include input from cities, towns, businesses, nonprofit organizations, and community stakeholders throughout Marin.
By taking a coordinated countywide approach, Marin is positioning itself to support innovation, foster economic opportunity, and build a resilient economy that serves residents, workers, and businesses for years to come.
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 Pictured here is the BOS celebrating Pride Month with members of the LGBTQIS+ community.
June is Pride Month, a time to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, recognize the progress that has been made, and reaffirm our commitment to building a county where everyone feels welcome, respected, and valued.
I would like to recognize the dedicated work of PRISM, Marin County's LGBTQ+ employee resource group. Throughout the year, PRISM helps foster a culture of inclusion and belonging within County government by creating opportunities for education, connection, support, and advocacy.
Their efforts remind us that inclusion is not limited to a single month. It is an ongoing commitment that requires listening, learning, and ensuring that all people are treated with dignity and respect. Through their leadership and service, PRISM helps make Marin County a stronger and more welcoming place for employees and residents alike.
As we celebrate Pride Month, we also recognize the many individuals and organizations who continue working to create communities where everyone can live authentically and thrive. Thank you to PRISM and all those who help advance understanding, equity, and inclusion throughout Marin County.
Happy Pride Month!
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County Counsel, Brandon Halter
Please join me in welcoming Brandon W. Halter as Marin County's new County Counsel.
Following a nationwide recruitment, the Board of Supervisors appointed Halter to serve as the County's chief legal advisor. A member of the Marin County Counsel's Office since 2018, Halter most recently served as Chief Deputy County Counsel, where he advised County departments on land use, environmental law, labor and employment, litigation, and public policy. He also helped lead technology and operational improvements within the office.
A graduate of Harvard Law School and the University of California, San Diego, Halter brings both extensive legal experience and a deep understanding of Marin County government. As County Counsel, he will provide legal guidance to the Board of Supervisors, County departments, boards, commissions, and special districts, helping ensure the County continues to operate with integrity, transparency, and accountability.
I look forward to working with Brandon as we continue serving the residents of Marin County. I also want to thank former County Counsel Brian Washington for his outstanding leadership and years of dedicated public service, and wish him all the best in his retirement.
Nadia Seeteram
Marin County has appointed Dr. Nadia Seeteram as its first Chief Climate Officer, a new leadership role focused on advancing climate resilience and sustainability efforts across the County. In June 2025, the Board of Supervisors established a new Climate and Sustainability Division within the Office of the County Executive.
Dr. Seeteram brings extensive experience at the intersection of climate science, housing, and public policy. Her career has included work with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, New York State government, Columbia University's Climate School, the Aspen Institute, and the Center for Climate and Security. Most recently, she led New York's first proactive voluntary property buyout program, helping communities prepare for the impacts of climate change.
The Chief Climate Officer position reflects Marin County's commitment to addressing climate challenges through coordinated planning, regional partnerships, and long-term investment. The role will help integrate climate resilience into County operations, economic development strategies, legislative priorities, and collaboration with local cities and towns.
I look forward to working closely with Dr. Seeteram on the climate challenges facing District 2, from wildfire preparedness and vegetation management to flood protection, sea level rise, and the long-term resilience of our communities. As climate impacts continue to evolve, it is critical that we take a proactive approach to protecting residents, infrastructure, and our natural environment.
Dr. Seeteram's arrival comes as the County continues work on regional sea level rise planning, shoreline adaptation efforts, and climate resilience initiatives designed to prepare Marin for the future.
Please join me in welcoming Dr. Seeteram to Marin County as we continue building a more resilient future.
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 Higher than normal tides are expected to return to Marin County in July and August. While these events are not expected to reach the levels experienced during January's King Tides, they can still cause minor flooding in low-lying, tidally influenced areas, especially during late evening and overnight high tides.
Upcoming higher than normal tides include:
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July 11-14 (peak tides ranging from 7.0 to 7.3 feet)
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August 10-11 (peak tides of approximately 7.0 feet)
If you live, work, or travel near bayside roadways, creeks, or other tidally influenced areas, plan ahead and use caution during high tide periods. Conditions can change quickly if strong winds or storms coincide with elevated tides.
Keep the accompanying tide calendar handy, stay informed through AlertMarin, and check NOAA tide forecasts before heading out during these periods.
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The Marin County Fair returns July 1 through 5 with five days of live music, family fun, and community celebration under this year's theme, "Stars, Stripes & Stories."
This year's concert lineup features something for everyone. Highlights include funk legends The Family Stone on July 1, reggae pioneers Steel Pulse on July 2, Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Linda Perry on Pride Day, July 3, and a full day of tribute bands on July 4 featuring music from Pink Floyd, Fleetwood Mac, Neil Diamond, and more. The Fair wraps up on July 5 with a performance by two-time GRAMMY and Latin GRAMMY nominee Lupita Infante as part of Latin Heritage Day.
In addition to incredible live entertainment, fairgoers can enjoy carnival rides, exhibits, local food, agricultural displays, family activities, and the Fair's spectacular nightly fireworks.
Whether you're coming for the music, the attractions, or simply to spend time with family and friends, the Marin County Fair offers something for everyone. We hope to see you there!
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The Marin Cultural Association has awarded $100,000 in 2026 Arts Grants to support local artists, nonprofits, and cultural organizations throughout Marin County. Funded with support from the California Arts Council, the grants will help expand arts education, preserve cultural heritage, and increase access to creative programs that strengthen community connections across Marin.
This year's recipients include organizations such as the California Film Institute, Marin Symphony, Mountain Play, Youth in Arts, and several local artists. The 2025 and 2026 grant recipients will be recognized at the Marin County Fair.
Learn more about the grants program and future funding opportunities at marincultural.org.
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Alma Culverwell, Sadie Arneson, Carter Fox, and Sydney Martinez.
I am pleased to welcome our District 2 summer interns: Alma Culverwell, Sadie Arneson, Carter Fox, and Sydney Martinez.
This internship provides students with a unique opportunity to learn about local government, public service, and the many ways County government impacts the daily lives of Marin residents. Throughout the summer, they will work alongside our team, engage with community issues, and gain firsthand experience in the public sector.
I am excited to have them join us and look forward to the energy, fresh perspectives, and contributions they will bring to our office and the District 2 community. Please join me in welcoming Alma, Sadie, Carter, and Sydney to the team.
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I’m honored to be appointed to The California Association of Councils of Governments (CALCOG) and attend my first meeting |
COMAEA Juneteenth Event with County Executive Derek Johnson |
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Fairfax parade with San Rafael Council member Eli Hill and my colleague Supervisor Lucan |
My daughter Leila and I visiting the Lincoln Memorial in DC |
Retirement celebration of Marin County Counsel Brian Washington |
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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 County Flood Control General Manager
Marin County is seeking an experienced leader to serve as the next General Manager of the Marin County Flood Control & Water Conservation District. The position oversees flood risk reduction, watershed management, infrastructure projects, and District operations while working closely with advisory boards, partner agencies, and the community. Applications will receive first consideration if submitted by July 6, 2026.
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Chief Information & Innovation Officer (CIIO) for Marin County will lead the County's next generation of technology, digital services, and innovation. This executive leadership position will oversee enterprise technology strategy, cybersecurity, responsible AI, and digital transformation initiatives that improve how residents access County services and how departments operate.
The CIIO will play a key role in advancing modern, customer-focused government while building on Marin County's commitment to innovation, collaboration, and operational excellence. If you're passionate about using technology to make government more efficient, accessible, and responsive, this is an exciting opportunity to make a lasting impact.
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Campaign Lead at NatureBridge
NatureBridge is seeking a Campaign Lead to help lead the largest fundraising effort in the organization's history. This fully remote position will oversee campaign strategy, donor engagement, volunteer coordination, and major gift fundraising to expand environmental education opportunities for more than 30,000 students each year. Applications are due July 14.
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