Public Meetings - Alameda County, California

The committee met to receive federal and state legislative updates, and to vote on supporting two state and federal bills. The meeting began at 9:30 AM and was presided over by Supervisor TAM and Supervisor Portonato Bass. Federal Legislative Update (CJ Lake) - DHS Funding Impasse: The Department of Homeland Security remains unfunded beyond 40 days. On March 27, the Senate unanimously (by voice vote) passed a measure to reopen most of DHS, excluding ICE and CBP. The House then voted 213-203 along party lines to fund all DHS through May 22. President Trump signed a presidential memorandum to restore pay for approximately 50,000 TSA screening officers. - Reconciliation Discussions: Republicans are considering a second reconciliation package to fund DHS, potentially including immigration enforcement, the U.S.-Israel war in Iran, and an ag supplemental. Budget committee chairs are coordinating on a budget resolution within 60 days. - Voter ID Provisions: Elements of the Save America Act (proof of citizenship for voter registration, voter ID at polls) are being explored for inclusion in reconciliation, though budget experts note they may not survive the Byrd rule. - Medicare/Medicaid Anti-Fraud: Republicans propose folding anti-fraud policies into reconciliation to offset costs; Democrats warn this is a pretext to cut healthcare. - 21st Century Road to Housing Act: Bipartisan bills passed both chambers but negotiations are stalled. The Senate version prohibits institutional investors from buying single-family homes and places a temporary moratorium on a Federal Reserve digital currency. The House seeks a formal conference. State Legislative Update (Gile Dentus, Full Moon Strategies) - Legislative Schedule: The California legislature is on spring recess until April 6. Policy committee hearings will resume, and budget discussions will intensify ahead of the May revise (expected May 14). - Attorney General Actions: - AG Rob Bonta leads a multi-state coalition to enforce a federal court order blocking HHS from sharing medical recipient data with ICE. The coalition seeks clarification on data shared and transparency on ICE usage. - AG Bonta joined 21 states in a lawsuit challenging conditions tied to USDA funding (SNAP, school meals) related to immigration, gender identity, and diversity initiatives. - Budget Outlook: The Legislative Analyst’s Office released a report examining tax policy scenarios, including potential tax increases, setting the stage for tough fiscal negotiations. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made on the federal update, state update, or non-agendized items. Key Outcomes - Motion 1 (Federal Support): The committee unanimously approved advancing a request from Alameda County Health to support HR 5439 and SB 2834 (pilot program for medically tailored home-delivered meals). Vote: 2-0 (Portonato Bass aye, TAM aye). - Motion 2 (State Support): The committee unanimously approved two support requests: 1. Alameda County Social Services Agency request for $20 million in general fund statewide to sustain emergency response stabilization efforts for child welfare social workforce. 2. Alameda County Health support for AB 1607 (remove sunset on the Maddie EMS fund to sustain reimbursement for uncompensated care). Vote: 2-0 (Portonato Bass aye, TAM aye). Both motions will be forwarded to the full Board of Supervisors for final action.

Note: The transcript indicates the meeting was held on Thursday, March 26, 2026, but the provided date is March 27, 2026. This summary uses the provided date. The Alameda County Public Protection Committee met on March 27, 2026, to receive two informational presentations: an update on women's programming at Santa Rita Jail and the 2025 annual review of the District Attorney's Office. The meeting included public comments on both items. Presentation 1: Santa Rita Jail Women's Programming and Programming Pod Sergeant Priscilla Silva presented an update on programs for women at Santa Rita Jail, based on a January 2025 survey of inmates. Key findings: 44% wanted entrepreneurship, 35% culinary arts, 30% cosmetology/music, 29% first aid/CPR. Barriers included average 3-day stay, classification restrictions, and mental health issues. Programs developed include: mixed-classification courses (a first at the jail), partnerships with Chabot College, Las Positas College (starting in 2026), Five Keys, Juilliard School of Music, Airmark Food Company (culinary certification), Freedom Braiders (braiding with life skills curriculum), and a doula certification program. A women's programming pod was established in summer 2025, currently housing 22 women who wrote a letter praising the safe environment. The presentation highlighted success stories, including Kennedy (former inmate now employed and winning braiding competitions). Funding concerns were raised: Las Positas funding ($328,000 from Rising Scholars) ends July 31, 2026; Freedom Braiders operates without stable funding. Public Comments on Item 1 - Norma Arrozco (Ella Baker Center) acknowledged programming value but argued no amount of programming makes Santa Rita safe, citing over 70 deaths in the last decade, including Kayona Farr who died after three days in custody. She urged investment in diversion and community-based programs. - A speaker (unidentified) praised Freedom Braiders and asked why funding for the program is not continued. - Tanisha Cannon (Legal Services for Prisoners with Children) questioned why tax dollars are spent on 72-hour incarceration and called for diversion before jail. - John Jones III (formerly incarcerated) thanked the sheriff's office and Sergeant Silva for believing in people. - Brianna Reggles (Freedom Braider) advocated for programs centering women. - Maya (Freedom Braider) stressed the need for long-term funding to reduce recidivism. Presentation 2: Alameda County District Attorney's 2025 Annual Review District Attorney Ursula Jones Dixon presented the 2025 annual review, emphasizing her office's mission to ethically prosecute, uphold victims' rights under Marcy's Law (California Constitution), and rebuild community trust. She highlighted: 12,962 misdemeanor and 5,856 felony in-custody referrals reviewed in 2025 (up significantly due to clearing backlog). Gun charge referrals rose between 2023 and 2025. The office provided 39 services on average to each of 7,646 new victims in 2025. Death case backlog: 322 pending death cases, 262 homicide/murder cases, 60 manslaughter cases awaiting trial. Average time to resolution is 2 years 9 months. The DA's office lost a federal Trauma Recovery Center grant. The office is working on a gun violence prevention grant for a young women's empowerment program and expanding the CARES Navigation Center (currently 16-20 clients per month, with a second mobile team starting April 1, 2026). The DA responded to questions about data dashboard (system is outdated, hiring coders), resentencing (slowed to ensure victim notification), juvenile transfers (no direct files; only fitness hearings requested as allowed by law), and police accountability cases (cases dismissed when cannot be proven beyond a reasonable doubt; families have been met with). Public Comments on Item 2 - Madeline Stacy asked how the office serves victims of police violence, citing Stephen Taylor's case. - Michelle Monterosa asked about resources for families impacted by police violence. - Aces Hart Bell questioned why petitions to prosecute children as adults were filed only for non-white children. - Tanisha Cannon asked why prosecutor-initiated resentencing stopped, referencing a UC Berkeley study showing 165 sentences reduced, saving 2,792 years of incarceration and millions annually. - A speaker (unidentified) asked why the public data dashboard was removed and about racial disparities in Prop 36 enforcement. - Derek Benson asked why police accountability cases were dismissed and what pathways exist for accountability. - Maria Sopeda (Urban Peace Movement) said the DA refuses to meet with community groups, unlike prior DAs. - Norma Arrozco (again) repeated calls for meeting and for halting youth transfers to adult court. - Kate Tellerico (San Francisco Chronicle) requested data on sex trafficking cases, noting a delayed public records request. - John Jones III praised the DA but urged prevention. - Simone Renee (Urban Peace Movement) called for halting youth transfers and resuming resentencing. - John Lindsay Poland (American Friends Service Committee) asked about the CARES Navigation Center data and urged the DA to submit a plan to the CARES First ad hoc committee. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken. The committee received the presentations as informational. - Supervisor Marquez requested a timeline of the women's programming for the next year and emphasized tracking data on recidivism and employment post-release. - Supervisor Miley expressed support for the programs and offered to help find funding. - The DA committed to continuing quarterly reports and improving data transparency. - The next Public Protection Committee meeting is scheduled for Thursday, April 23, 2026, at 10:30 AM, with updates on medical quality assurance at Santa Rita Jail and procurement timeline for comprehensive medical services.

Note: The transcript records the date as March 25, 2026, but the provided instruction specifies the meeting took place on March 26, 2026. This summary uses the instructed date. The Unincorporated Services Committee of the Alameda County Board of Supervisors, chaired by Supervisor Miley and also attended by Supervisor Tam, convened to discuss several items including a cannabis ordinance amendment, a fireworks prohibition ordinance, updates on Measure X fire stations, the first annual Environmental Justice (EJ) Implementation Status Report, and the Alameda County Health Status Report. The meeting began with public comments on non-agendized items, followed by action items, and concluded with presentations and discussions. Public Comments & Testimony - Matt Turner spoke about the transition from at-large elections to by-district elections in the unincorporated area, encouraging participation via the YouMapIt.com website. - Rachel Osajima, Director of the Alameda County Arts Commission, announced a call for artists for a public art project at the new African American Wellness Hub in Oakland, with a deadline of April 30, 2026, and an info session on April 9, 2026. - Cannabis Ordinance (Item 5): Several speakers opposed the expansion of hours. Sandra Archiletta, a resident and prevention professional, argued that increased access would harm youth, as cannabis is the most used substance by youth. Anthony Escander, a 16-year-old student, urged against the change, stating it would allow easier access before school. Brooklyn, a public health professional, argued that the proposal would increase consumption and strain county resources. Delilah, a youth leader, expressed concerns about enforcement and normalization. Marcia Lopez, a community leader and mother, opposed the earlier hours. Samantha Ramos, a youth leader, noted that delivery services make access easier for youth. Oscar, another youth leader, argued that the proposal values drugs over necessities. Matthias, a youth, echoed concerns about youth exposure. Cheryl Lighthoven expressed frustration that supervisors do not live in the area and do not care. Supervisor Miley responded by defending the ordinance, noting that the two dispensaries have operated without issues for 20+ years, and that any expansion would require individual approvals with public review. - Fireworks Ordinance: Several speakers supported the ordinance. Dale Silva, a Fairview resident, argued that property owner responsibility is well-established in other codes. Fran Krug spoke in support, citing fire risks and the success of similar ordinances in neighboring jurisdictions. Brenda from Fairview thanked the Sheriff's Department and MACs for their work. Bob Clark, a Fairview resident, provided examples of other jurisdictions that have adopted similar ordinances and urged swift adoption. - EJ Implementation Report: Anna Raskiza, director of community development at Resources for Community Development, praised the EJ element and noted that youth are using the document as a tool for learning and action. Discussion Items 1. Cannabis Ordinance Amendment (Item 5) Rodrigo Arduña from the County Planning Department presented an ordinance to amend Chapter 6.108 of the County General Ordinance Code to expand retail and delivery hours for cannabis from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., aligning with state law. The change would affect three operators: two dispensaries (Garden of Eden and We Are Hemp) in urban unincorporated areas and one delivery operator in East County. The ordinance is CEQA-exempt. Each operator would need to petition individually to change hours, with approvals subject to review. Supervisor Miley noted that the operators have a long history of compliance and that the change does not automatically allow new hours. Supervisor Tam asked clarifying questions about the review process. Public comment was largely opposed. The committee voted unanimously (2-0) to forward the ordinance to the full Board of Supervisors for consideration. 2. Fireworks and Social Host Ordinance Sergeant Curtis Imperial from the Alameda County Sheriff's Office presented a proposed ordinance to prohibit all fireworks in unincorporated areas, establish a social host ordinance, and create a fine structure. The ordinance was developed collaboratively with county council, fire agencies, and the MACs. Key points: 644 fireworks calls from June 4 to July 6, 2025; fines of $750 for first violation, $1,500 for second, $2,500 for third and subsequent; enforcement by ACSO; appeals to BZA and then Board of Supervisors; property owners may be held liable if renters do not pay, but due process is provided. The Castle Valley MAC did not support the ordinance, but all other MACs voted unanimously in favor. Supervisor Miley expressed strong support, though he raised questions about tenant protections, oaths at hearings, and notification. He also noted that the ordinance should be flexible to accommodate cultural events like Lunar New Year. The committee voted unanimously (2-0) to forward the ordinance to the full Board of Supervisors for adoption, with first reading scheduled for April 21, 2026. 3. Measure X Fire Stations Update (Item 1) Eric Moore, Deputy Chief of Alameda County Fire, provided an update on Phase 1 of Measure X fire station projects. Three stations are under construction: Station 7 (Palomares Hills) – foundation poured in March, superstructure starting May, completion expected by end of 2026; Station 25 (Castro Valley) – moved to interim facility, demolition of old station starting April 9, 2026, groundbreaking in June; Station 22 (San Lorenzo) – under contract, construction starting by end of 2026. Total budget for the three stations is $65 million. Public art components are being integrated. Phase 2 studies for stations 24 and 26 are underway. 4. Environmental Justice Implementation Status Report (Item 2) Ali Avers from the Planning Department presented the first annual report on the EJ Element (adopted August 2024). The EJ Element includes 162 action items across 7 goal areas. Of the 103 non-ongoing actions, 9.7% implemented, 6.8% significant progress, 58.3% in progress, 25.2% not yet started. Barriers include funding and staffing. Examples of progress: online code enforcement forms in multiple languages (implemented), lead poisoning prevention JPA expansion (in progress), healthy store conversion program (significant progress), All In Eats transition (implemented), disaggregated health data (significant progress), Office of Unincorporated Services exploration (in progress), USPS place name changes (implemented). The report also notes challenges from federal policy changes (e.g., HR1, immigration enforcement). The report was presented to the Eden Area MAC and Castro Valley MAC, which provided feedback requesting more frequent updates, clearer metrics, and stronger community engagement. The committee received the report and discussed the need to connect health data to EJ actions. No vote was taken. 5. Alameda County Health Status Report Julia Reifman and Trem Wen from the Alameda County Public Health Department presented health data for the county and the EJ priority communities. Key findings: A 13-year life expectancy gap by race/ethnicity in the county (2018-2019); a 12.5-year gap by city/place, with Hayward Acres having the lowest life expectancy (75.2 years) and Piedmont the highest (87.7 years). The EJ area has higher mortality in middle age (49% higher for ages 45-74) and higher rates of heart disease and cancer mortality. Disparities are stark for African American, Black, and Pacific Islander populations. Social determinants such as poverty, overcrowding, low high school completion, and limited access to parks and tree canopy contribute to poor health outcomes. The report is required every three years under EJ Element objective 6.6B. Supervisor Miley emphasized the need to translate data into actionable strategies and to align with the EJ Element. The committee received the report and requested further integration with the EJ implementation. Key Outcomes - Cannabis Ordinance Amendment: Motion passed (2-0) to forward the ordinance to the full Board of Supervisors for consideration. - Fireworks and Social Host Ordinance: Motion passed (2-0) to forward the ordinance to the full Board of Supervisors for adoption, with first reading on April 21, 2026. - Fire Stations Update: Noted; no vote required. - EJ Implementation Report: Received and discussed; no vote. - Health Status Report: Received and discussed; no vote. The meeting was adjourned at an unspecified time.

This meeting, held on March 25, 2026, featured three informational items: an update on the CalFresh Employment and Training program in light of expiring ABOD waivers, a report from the Commission on the Status of Women, and the seventh status update on the Department of Children and Family Services' response to a 2024 audit. The committee discussed program expansions, implementation challenges, and ongoing efforts to improve child welfare services. CalFresh Employment and Training Program Update - The committee received a presentation on the CalFresh Employment and Training (E&T) program, a voluntary program helping participants build skills and move toward self-sufficiency. It also serves as a qualifying work program for Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABODs) to meet the federal 80-hour monthly work requirement. - The ABOD waiver is expiring; implementation in Alameda County begins June 1, 2026. Non-exempt ABODs must meet the work requirement to continue receiving CalFresh beyond an initial three-month period within a 36-month time clock. Many recipients are exempt due to age, disability, pregnancy, or caregiving responsibilities. - The department is expanding partnerships, including a new workfare component with the Alameda County Community Food Bank and new partners such as the Salvation Army (offering CNA and construction pre-apprenticeship programs) and Las Positas College. - In federal fiscal year 2024-2025, the program served 1,091 unduplicated participants (58% male, 42% female; 27% ABODs without exemptions). Employment outcomes included 33% employed through the program, with an average wage of $19.58/hour and a highest wage of $37.50/hour. - Supervisor Fortunato Bass questioned staffing capacity (both internal social workers and contracted partners) to handle the increased demand from ABOD requirements. Director Andrea Ford noted that the program leverages third-party and state partners, with a 50% federal reimbursement model that does not directly draw from county funds for third-party partners. - Supervisor Tam asked about cost: past annual plans were around $5–6 million, but the most recent was approximately $2–3 million. The program relies on non-federal matching funds for the county’s portion. - Discussion clarified differences between CalFresh and Medi-Cal work requirements: Medi-Cal’s requirement is about $580/month and can include other income sources; CalFresh’s is 80 hours/month. The state is exploring alignment. Commission on the Status of Women Update - Vice Chair Sonia Salwan presented the commission’s recent work, including a visit to Santa Rita Jail to support incarcerated women, advocacy at the California Commission on the Status of Women’s 60th anniversary (resulting in foster youth advocacy becoming the state commission’s top priority), and the adoption of CEDAW (Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women) by Alameda County in June 2025. - The next step is implementing CEDAW through intersectional gender analysis to identify disparities. The commission is preparing for its 50th anniversary. - Supervisor Tam asked how the board could support implementation. Salwan highlighted the need for housing and support systems for foster youth, suggesting dedicated housing communities for foster children. Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) Audit Status Update - Michelle Love provided the seventh update on the 2024-108 audit report. A six-month progress report was due that day, and a CDSS on-site review is scheduled for March 26, 2026. The on-site will include case reviews, staff interviews, and focus groups. - Updates included: dashboard transparency (data from CWS/CMS, refreshed monthly, with updated verbiage); accountability mechanisms (new policies for supervision documentation and training); and progress on closing the backlog of open referrals. - The backlog of open referrals without contacts is now 687 (down from a previous figure of 984, which included attempted contacts). Approximately 50% of referrals without contacts are assigned to staff who resigned or are on leave. About 300 new referrals are received each month. - Emergency response staffing: 57 staff as of January 15, 2026, down to 11 in mid-February due to staff on leave; new staff are anticipated. Overtime for day/swing shift ERU staff totaled about 1,700 hours over six months. - Placement capacity: a transitional shelter care facility will soft-open on March 27, 2026. There are 477 approved resource family homes; 928 children/young adults (231 young adults) are in out-of-home care. Homes are needed for older youth, sibling sets, and children with special needs. - Hiring and attrition: in 2024, 22 bachelor’s and 46 master’s level staff were hired, with 19 total attrition (27% of hires). In 2025, 10 bachelor’s and 24 master’s were hired, with 20 total attrition (59% of hires). The overall vacancy rate declined from 35% to 25%. - Recommendations six, seven, nine, and thirteen are deemed fully implemented by the state auditor. Recommendation ten (SIP) is pending confirmation. Recommendations 11 and 12 await the assessment center’s opening to complete action items. - Supervisor Tam expressed concern about the attrition rate and asked how the board could help (e.g., technology investments). Love said ideas would be brought back. Supervisor Fortunato Bass requested a future walk-through of the audit dashboard at a full board work session. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken; all items were informational. - The committee received updates and directed staff to provide follow-up information on staffing capacity for CalFresh E&T and to consider linking audit recommendation status charts on the public dashboard. - Supervisor Fortunato Bass requested a future full-board work session to walk through the DCFS audit dashboard. - The next DCFS update is scheduled for the March 10 board work session; the next task force meeting is March 27, 2026.

The Alameda County Board of Supervisors held its regular meeting on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, with four members present (Supervisors Marquez, Tam, Miley, and Fortunato Bass) and President Halbert excused. The meeting included multiple proclamations honoring community leaders and retiring county officials, votes on consent and regular calendar items, and closed session reports. Closed Session Report - Settlement Approved: The Board approved a $75,000 settlement in the case of Sanchez v. City of Hayward (U.S. District Court, Northern District of California, Case No. 3:14-cv-01394-AGT). The vote was unanimous (Supervisors Miley, Halbert, Tam, Marquez, and Fortunato Bass voting yes). Proclamations and Commendations - Women's History Month (Item 52): The Board proclaimed March 2026 as Women's History Month and honored five women: Dr. Rose A. King Etua (engineering education), Jennifer Hawkins (Union City Family Center), Jane Garcia (La Clinica de la Raza, retiring), Terracita de Jesus (community advocacy), and Dr. Aisha Mays (Dream Youth Clinic). Each honoree spoke. - Commendation for Donna Ziegler (Item 53): Recognized for 26 years of service, including 14 years as County Counsel—the first woman and first African American to hold that role in Alameda County. The Board also authorized adding seven new positions to the County Counsel's office (Item 26, part of consent calendar). - Commendation for Tim Dupuy (Item 54): Recognized for 26 years of service as Chief Technology Officer, CIO, and Registrar of Voters. Under his leadership, the county was named the 1 digital county for large counties twice. - Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month (Item 55): Proclaimed March 2026. Honored Friends of Children with Special Needs, now serving over 1,500 families. - Senior Nutrition Month (Item 56): Proclaimed March 2026. Noted that Alameda County's nutrition programs provide over 600,000 home-delivered meals, 130,000 bags of groceries, and 200,000 congregate meals annually. - Weights and Measures Week (Item 57): Proclaimed March 15–21, 2026. Recognized staff who inspect over 72,000 measuring devices and 4,800 weighing devices countywide with only 8 FTEs. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: Approved minutes from March 10 (two special meetings) and March 16 (budget workgroup). - Consent Items (58–61): Approved unanimously. - Mass Motion (Items 2–51, excluding certain items): Approved with comments on specific items. Included approval of item 26 (seven new County Counsel positions). Discussion Items - Items 14 and 15 – Epic EHR Implementation and CalAIM: Supervisors Marquez and Fortunato Bass expressed support for the Epic electronic health record system implementation, noting its long-term benefits. Supervisor Fortunato Bass highlighted the use of MHSA trust funds and the need for fiscal prudence given federal funding uncertainties. Interim AC Health Director Anika Chandry confirmed that the MHSA trust fund had been set aside for technology and that the Epic go-live is approximately one year away. - Item 18 – Illegal Dumping Conference: Supervisor Miley promoted the 5th Annual Statewide Illegal Dumping Conference, April 30–May 1, 2026, in Alameda County, sponsored by Waste Management. - Item 38 – Interim CIO Appointment: Appointed Rom Gura Murphy as Interim Chief Information Officer, effective March 29, 2026, at biweekly compensation of $12,065.60, pending a permanent recruitment. Murphy expressed commitment to maintaining the team's award-winning performance. - Item 39 – Alameda Health System (AHS) Budget Strategies: The Board approved short-term measures to assist AHS with its FY 2025–26 budget imbalance: (1) reducing the specialty mental health contract payment withhold from 20% to 10% effective immediately, and (2) amending AHS's debt repayment agreement to increase the fiscal year-end net negative balance limit to $100 million for FY26 and FY27, and increasing the intra-year maximum from $50 million to $100 million for those years. These measures aim to offset the $14 million fiscal impact of deferring planned reductions in force (delayed until June 30, 2026 per Board direction). AHS leadership thanked the Board for creative collaboration. A subcommittee task force will address long-term solutions. - Items 33 and 47 – Ordinances: - Item 33: Approved second reading of salary ordinance amendments (unanimous). - Item 34: Items B and C (first reading of salary ordinance amendments and MOU changes) were continued to the next regular meeting for correction. Item 34A (first reading of MOU amendments) passed and will return for second reading. - Item 47: Approved second reading of a traffic code amendment for unincorporated areas (unanimous). Public Comments & Testimony - On Agenda Items (early session): Samuel Ramey and others spoke on items 6, 11, 12, 19, etc., referencing complex legal claims, but time expired on most. - On Non-Agenda Items (end of meeting): - Harold Bryant: Expressed frustration with illegal dumping in Oakland, alleging vendors are unregistered and that enforcement officials (Ronald Browder, Antonio Golair) are not performing their duties. He urged Board action. - Another speaker made references to military orders and claims of planted nuclear warheads, identifying as a prisoner of war. - A speaker advocated for alternative medicine over conventional medicine. - Kelly: Cited a Mercury News article from Thanksgiving 2025 criticizing the county's litigation strategy as costing taxpayers millions, and noted that the legal staff grew 43% (from 35 to 50 attorneys) over 15 years while county population grew only 6%. - Wendy Peterson (Senior Services Coalition): Urgently warned that Area Agency on Aging (AAA) RFPs are delayed; current contracts expire June 30 (99 days away). She requested stability and continuity for seniors. Key Outcomes - Approved Settlement: Unanimous approval of $75,000 settlement in Sanchez case. - Approved Proclamations: All five proclamations and commendations were adopted. - Approved Consent and Mass Motion: All items except those pulled for comment were approved. - Approved Interim CIO: Appointment of Rom Gura Murphy effective March 29, 2026. - Approved AHS Budget Strategies: Measures to reduce fiscal pressure on AHS, including contract payment withhold reduction and debt repayment modification, effective immediately. - Approved Ordinances: Items 33 and 47 adopted; Item 34 continued for correction. - Directed Deferral of AHS Reductions: Continued deferral of reductions in force until June 30, 2026. - Noted Future Actions: AHS subcommittee task force to address long-term budget issues; AAA procurement timeline concerns to be addressed. Adjournment The meeting reconvened from closed session without additional reportable items and adjourned.

The Alameda County Elections Commission convened on March 24, 2026, according to the agenda metadata, though the raw transcript explicitly opened with a date of March 19, 2026, noting a significant discrepancy between the two records. The meeting included updates from the Registrar of Voters (ROV), reports from several subcommittees, an extensive presentation on the Brown Act, and critical revisions to the November 2025 post-election assessment report before forwarding it to the Board of Supervisors. Commissioner Butter joined remotely. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public provided comments during the designated public comment periods. Monthly Update from the Registrar of Voters (ROV) - ROV staff provided a list of outreach events conducted from January through April, with additional events confirmed through June. Outreach targets include underserved communities, multicultural and multi-language groups, disability communities, seniors, youth, and restored voters. - High school voter education weeks were highlighted, covering pre-registration, youth voting (in Oakland and Berkeley), and the student election worker program. - Commissioners inquired about the metrics for success. The ROV stated they could provide pre-registration totals and are exploring methods to track turnout for newly eligible voters. A new initiative to send birthday cards to newly eligible 18-year-olds was announced. - The ROV confirmed the website has a dedicated outreach page and a phone tree for organizations to request a visit. - A potential overlap between the Youth Participation and Voter Participation committees was noted, but the chair warned that combining the two committees would create a violation of the Brown Act. - A suggestion was made to conduct proactive outreach at active parks (e.g., San Antonio Park in Oakland). November 2025 Post-Election Assessment (Ad Hoc Committee) - Commissioner Butter (online), joined by Commissioners Wagner and Pham, presented the report compiled in early January. The ROV had submitted formal comments on the report. - The commission engaged in a detailed line-by-line review of the document. Key revisions included: - Removing the phrase "discussed during the November 2025 elections commission meeting" from the overview. - Deleting separate "ROV Response" subheads and integrating the ROV's statements directly into the commission's bullet points. - Removing a bullet point regarding voter confusion over the Union City Hall drop box location, with the agreement that the ROV and city clerk would improve on-site signage and online mapping. - Removing a bullet point about parking difficulties at a Berkeley drop box location, as the issue was deemed inaccurate. - Replacing a lengthy ROV response with a single paragraph acknowledging that the ROV's current observation protocols met applicable legal standards, while maintaining a standing recommendation for incremental improvements on alerting subscribers. Voter Participation Subcommittee Report - The subcommittee is focusing on Districts 6 and 7 and has drafted a mission statement. It faces a challenge in obtaining specific demographic and turnout data from the ROV and is collaborating with an external expert to access public data. - Chair Dieter encouraged the committee to narrow its scope to a single measurable barrier (e.g., youth engagement or ballot box access) rather than broad goals. Youth Participation Subcommittee Report - A meeting with the ROV was scheduled to discuss organizing engagement in Alameda County high schools and the juvenile justice system. - The ROV is working to implement youth voting access at vote centers for the November election. - Commissioner Lindsay suggested that same-day registration at polling places and youth-oriented materials (e.g., with QR codes) could boost youth turnout. Budgeting for Elections Subcommittee Report - The subcommittee has not yet held its first meeting. ROV staff reported working on clearer billing workshops for city clerks. Brown Act Training Presentation - Jason from County Counsel delivered a training on the Ralph M. Brown Act. - Applicability: The full commission and standing committees are subject to the Brown Act. Ad hoc committees with a defined, temporary purpose and less than a majority are exempt. - Meetings: Includes formal, informal, serial, or via social media/email. A majority discussing commission business can create an illegal meeting. Staff cannot be used as intermediaries to share positions. Commissioners were advised to use BCC when emailing the body. - Remote Participation: Three paths were covered: - Default Teleconference: Post agenda at public locations. - Just Cause: Limited to 2 meetings per year. Quorum must be in one county location. Location does not need publication. Members must use audio-video. Meeting must stop if public remote access fails. - Disability Accommodations: Members count towards quorum. - Public Comment: Must occur before a decision. Reasonable limits are allowed. Commenters cannot disrupt the meeting. The commission should listen, not debate. - Consequences: Violations can allow a court to invalidate actions. Knowing violations are a misdemeanor. Key Outcomes - The commission authorized Chair Dieter to finalize the November 2025 Post-Election Assessment report based on the day's discussion and forward it to the Alameda County Board of Supervisors. This motion passed unanimously. - The ROV was directed to improve instructions for finding ballot drop box locations and to provide data on pre-registration and youth turnout. - The Voter Participation subcommittee was encouraged to narrow its scope. - The Youth Participation subcommittee scheduled a meeting with the ROV. - Meeting adjourned at 6:42 PM.

The Alameda County Health Committee met on March 23, 2026, to receive an informational update on the new vendor pool for housing and homeless services. Interim Health Director Anika Chowdery presented the procurement process, service categories, and timeline, with additional input from Jonathan Russell and Mona Palacios. The committee discussed the existing pool's performance, new requirements, and related operational challenges. Discussion Items - Update on New Vendor Pool: The existing Housing Solutions for Health vendor pool, implemented in 2019, includes 93 approved vendors and has awarded over $299 million across 10 master contracts. The new procurement was posted on March 10, 2026, to replace the current pool expiring June 30, 2027, with a one-year overlap. The new pool is expected to start July 1, 2026, and run through July 2031. It includes a new service category for homelessness prevention, funded partly by Measure W. Bids will be accepted every other month until October 13, 2026, then quarterly, via the new OpenGov portal. - Minimum Qualifications: Vendors must have at least three years of experience in the last ten years serving homeless populations. New requirements include HMIS certification or agreement to obtain it, and for housing community supports, two of the last five years experience with HMIS due to Medicaid billing needs. - State Reporting Burden: Supervisor Marley highlighted the burdensome monthly reporting required for HAP grants, consuming over 20 hours of staff time per month. He directed his staff to include this in conversations with state lobbyists to advocate for a return to quarterly reporting, noting the monthly requirement detracts from performance focus. - Housing First Model: Supervisor Marley requested clarification on the housing first model amidst ongoing controversy. Jonathan Russell explained it is an evidence-based practice that prioritizes quick access to housing with wraparound services, not housing only. Supervisor Marley requested a more detailed presentation at a future meeting. - Prevention Services and Prop 1: Supervisor Marley asked whether mental health prevention providers losing Prop 1 funding could qualify for the new prevention category. Russell noted the new prevention scope is narrowly defined for those imminently at risk of homelessness, so overlap may be limited but the county is exploring crossover opportunities. - Vendor Pool and New Projects: The vendor pool covers services, including operational funding for new shelter beds (e.g., 300 interim housing beds already procured via the pool). It does not include capital projects, which are handled separately with the Community Development Agency. Key Outcomes - The committee received the informational update. - Staff will bring a board letter in June 2026 presenting the new vendor pool and initial contracts. - Staff to consider semi-annual or annual reports to the committee on vendor pool utilization. - Supervisor Marley's office will coordinate with staff to discuss state reporting burden with lobbyists. - A future presentation on the housing first model and its outcomes in Alameda County will be scheduled. - Staff will follow up with Supervisor Town's office regarding concerns about First Presbyterian Church in the unincorporated area. Note: No formal action was taken; the item was informational. No consent calendar or public comments were present.

The meeting began at 9:30 AM with a quorum present. The committee received federal and state legislative updates, heard public testimony, and advanced several support position requests to the full Board of Supervisors. Federal Legislative Update - DHS Funding Shutdown: Emily Bakay DeSilva and John Assini reported that the House and Senate are in session this week before the spring recess. Homeland Security funding remains stalled; the White House rejected a Democratic proposal to fund TSA and other DHS components except ICE. The Senate is expected to confirm Senator Mullen as DHS Secretary tonight, which may restart negotiations. The SAVE Act (voting system overhaul) remains under consideration with no path to passage under a 60-vote threshold. - Defense Supplemental Request: A potential $200 billion supplemental request for the Department of Defense (renamed Department of War) is being discussed informally, covering munitions expended in the conflict with Iran. The formal submission to Congress has not yet been transmitted. Budget reconciliation for defense faces procedural hurdles and limited offsets after the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. - Appropriations Process: The Senate released appropriations guidance; the president's budget request is expected next week. The FY27 defense appropriations and NDAA are being prepared. The regular appropriations base is $1.5 trillion. - Health Care Affordability Hearings: The House held its third hearing on health care costs, examining provider consolidation, site-neutral payments, 340B reform, and other issues. Legislation is considered unlikely. State Legislative Update - Legislative Calendar: The Legislature enters a 10-day spring recess starting March 26, resuming April 6. Fiscal bills must clear policy committees by April 24; non-fiscal by May 1. The May Revision to the state budget is expected May 14. - ICE Detention Center Conditions: Attorney General Rob Bonta filed an amicus brief in a federal case challenging conditions at the Landon ICE Processing Center, citing understaffing, inadequate care, and excessive force, exacerbated by increased deportations. - ICE at Airports: Governor Newsom criticized President Trump for deploying ICE agents to airports. Alameda County‘s rapid response network confirmed ICE has not been deployed to Bay Area airports, but advised families with immigration concerns to consult an attorney before flying. - Tariff Refunds: Bonta and 18 state attorneys general urged Congress to mandate automatic refunds with interest for $166 billion paid by consumers and businesses after Trump’s tariffs were struck down. - Federal HR 1 Impact: A Senate budget subcommittee hearing on March 19 highlighted that HR 1 (work requirements) would cause 1.6 million Californians to lose CalFresh benefits, 1.4 million to lose Medi-Cal, and up to 2 million to become uninsured by 2030. Counties would absorb up to 1 million uninsured residents, straining indigent care systems. Public Comments & Testimony - Don Seifkus (Coalition for the National Infrastructure Bank): Strongly supported Supervisor Tam's request to endorse HR 5356 (National Infrastructure Bank Act). Cited $4 trillion in unfunded infrastructure needs, historical success of the Reconstruction Finance Corporation (financed Bay Bridge, Alameda Courthouse, etc.), and the bank's ability to provide 100% loans for local projects including low-income housing, seawall repairs, and lead abatement. - Jeff Beaman (retired scientist): Also supported HR 5356, noting the bank could fund affordable housing, electric grid upgrades, clean transportation (e.g., Caltrain electrification), and create good-paying jobs outside of gridlocked Washington politics. Discussion Items - Support Positions on Federal Legislation: Supervisor Tam requested support for HR 5356. The committee heard public comment and subsequently voted unanimously to forward the position to the full board. - Support Positions on State Legislation: Four bills were presented: - AB 1606 (Supervisor Miley): Tax credits for cleanup costs. - AB 2310 (Supervisor Miley): Criminal penalties for illegal dumping. - SB 1230: Solid waste dumping penalties to enforce existing law. - AB 1660 (Social Services Agency): Require financial institutions and third parties to comply with lawful requests from probate courts for public guardian and conservatorship processing. Supervisor Fortunato Bas expressed support for all four, and the committee voted unanimously to forward them to the full board. Key Outcomes - Motion to advance HR 5356 support passed (Supervisor Tam moved, Supervisor Fortunato Bas seconded; both voted aye). - Motion to advance AB 1606, AB 2310, SB 1230, and AB 1660 support positions passed (Supervisor Fortunato Bas moved, Supervisor Tam seconded; both voted aye). - The committee will forward all five support positions to the full Board of Supervisors for consideration. - No public comments were received on non-agendized items. The meeting was adjourned.

The Sunol Citizens Advisory Council (CAC) held its regular meeting on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at 6:30 PM. The meeting included public comments, updates from county agencies, presentations on mosquito abatement and a proposed new home, and a continued discussion on a telecommunications tower renewal. The council voted to approve a site development review for a new residence and continued the telecommunications item to the next meeting pending camouflage renderings. Public Comments & Testimony - Jim expressed concern about the septic study process, noting that a consultant has been paid $93,000 and worked for several months without any public meeting for community input. He requested a community meeting to allow residents to ask questions and share feelings. - Kelly commented on the Alameda Creek Watershed Center, suggesting a more accessible name (e.g., Natural Cultural History Center) and urging the SFPUC to update the construction sign (currently stating "finishing end 2025") and to allow the facility to be rented out for events like the Monterey Bay Aquarium. - Andrew asked about the future of the former golf course clubhouse; Tim Ramirez responded that no long-term plans exist beyond grazing, but utility staging uses may occur. Reports & Updates - Sheriff’s Office (Mark Petrini): Reported 33 calls for service, 20 proactive stops, and 32 business checks in the last month. Petrini announced his retirement; Sergeant Franco (grew up in Sunol) will replace him full-time in April. - CHP (Sean Landers): Conducted enforcement on Highway 84, writing 30 speeding tickets in a few hours. Raised concern about the Paloma Way on-ramp at Southbound 680 where drivers illegally turn left and go straight. - Fire Protection: 27 calls for service since last meeting, 93% EMS-related, five fire responses, one controlled burn, one rubbish fire. - Tree Advisory Work Group (Jim): Over the last two years, $10,000 has been spent on tree work along Sinbad Creek, funded by Friends of the Park and PLA. A volunteer work day is scheduled for Saturday, March 21 (weed whacking and irrigation check). A larger event with 40 students from the Resource Conservation District is planned for water sampling and creek cleanup. - Fire Safety Work Group (Frank): Completed 10 days of tree work on Kilcare Road using $42,000 in CalFire funds: removed 18 dead/hazardous trees, trimmed 87 trees, and cleared 144 cubic yards of green waste. Treated about 2 of the 4 miles; an additional $50,000 is needed to finish. - Downtown Revitalization Work Group: A prototype welcome sign will be delivered Monday, March 23. The sign is lighter in weight and will be displayed during the day, then brought in at night. Public comments will be accepted via email and handwritten notes. The sign features five historical landmarks. - Council Staff Comments: - Bulky waste day scheduled for March? (8 AM to noon, coupon in mail). - PGE open house on May 13 to discuss undergrounding 2 miles of distribution lines on Kilcare Road and pole replacement downtown. - Speed limit studies on Foothill Road (25 mph downtown to park; 35 mph between Koopman and Paloma) were approved by the Board of Supervisors, signs to be posted. - Alameda Creek Watershed Center (Tim Ramirez, SFPUC): - First responder liaison meeting set for June 4. - Grazing leases put out for competitive bid on March 17; mandatory meeting March 28; proposals due in April. - Watershed management plan update expected in May; public commission hearing in June. - Public fishing access at Calaveras Reservoir by reservation, with bathroom and road improvements planned for summer. - Construction of the Watershed Center is delayed due to rain leaks and exhibit issues; the contract runs through June 2028 but completion was hoped for spring 2026. No new schedule available. - Dogs are not permitted on the property. Discussion Items - Mosquito Abatement Presentation (Judith Pierce Davison, Alameda County Mosquito Abatement District): - Mosquitoes are active year-round due to warming. In Sunol, the aggressive Aedes dorsalis mosquito breeds in tree holes and containers. - Invasive Aedes aegypti (vector for dengue, Zika) has been found in Livermore, Pleasanton, Dublin, and Fremont. - Prevention tips: eliminate standing water, use BTI dunks (break into 5 pieces), mosquito fish for troughs, cover rain barrels, and report dead birds (crows/ravens) for West Nile testing. - The district offers free services (inspection, fish, treatment) funded by tax dollars. - Site Development Review – 9925 Foothill Road (Olive Grove House): - Proposal: one-story, 2,500 sq ft home with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, rear-loaded garage, indoor pool, and 2 water tanks on a 10-acre lot. - Site has 60 mature olive trees; home is not on a ridge. The lot was approved as a building site via variance by the Board of Supervisors in 1981. - Staff recommends approval; all agency comments addressed (fire, water, septic, grading). - Surrounding lots (5-15 acres): five of eight are developed, three of those have two-story homes. - Continued Conditional Use Permit – Telecommunications Tower (T-Mobile): - Renewal of a 2014 permit for a 15-foot tower near Mission Road and I-680. The tower is on a hillside, partially visible from the freeway. - Council expressed frustration that previous recommendations for camouflage (e.g., on other towers) were not implemented. - Crown Castle representative Jacob Hamilton explained feasibility of options: painting the tower green, adding faux ivy slats, and camo netting over antennas (rather than a full tree structure). Estimated 120 days from building permit for installation. - Council also requested information on another Crown Castle tower at Paloma Way and Sunol Boulevard that was previously approved with camouflage but never installed. Key Outcomes - Site Development Review Approved: Motion to recommend approval of PLN 2025-00091 (Olive Grove House) passed unanimously (5-0). - Telecommunications Tower Continued: Motion to continue PLN 2025-00153 to the April meeting (date not specified) passed unanimously. The applicant will provide renderings of two camouflage options (green paint + camo netting, and green paint + faux ivy slats) and information on the status of the other Crown Castle site at Paloma Way and Sunol Boulevard. - Minutes from February 18, 2026: Approved unanimously.