Contra Costa Today

On this episode, I chat with Liberty Union High School District trustee Erick Stonebarger who released data last week on the failure rate of nearly 30% after the District moved to Distance Learning, this is more than a 100% increase compared to last year. If you like the show, please consider a donation: https://patron.podbean.com/contracostatoday   00:36 – Introduction of Erick Stonebarger 01:20 – We get into data released by the Liberty Union High School District regarding 28% of the District under a 2.0 GPA and 14% with a 1.0 GPA or below. This is for Heritage High School, Freedom High School and Liberty High School in the cities of Brentwood and Oakley. Stonebarger highlights it’s the same teachers, same students and it’s a system problem, not a teacher and student problem.   06:00 – Given the data being new, has the District been able to dig deeper into the reason behind the low grades such as homelife, technology, mental health, overwhelmed, etc.  Stonebarger highlights how 1/3 of the students have no chance in this structure of Distance Learning. 09:55 – Stonebarger argues when you go from 1100 kids to 2100 kids to a failure rate, they need to do something different because right now is not working and its impacting kids. He blames those making decisions will not discuss the balance of the whole child—including Contra Costa Health Department who is only talking about one aspect. 11:19 – We get into social emotional issues, teachers are seeing the grades, will teachers question the job they are doing, it has to be devastating considering the amount of time they are putting into it. 12:55 – We talk about human connection for kids with their teachers versus screen time. 15:00 – I ask Stonebarger how Liberty Union High School District addressed the digital divide. 16:45 – Frustration with Contra Costa County Board of Education and Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors. I argue for shutdowns by zip code, not the whole county. 17:55 – Stonebarger says they need to look at the data and sit down with the county and see if they can reopen or not. I suggest why not put the 28% kids who are struggling and place those kids back in a classroom.  They can be the ones who go back first. Stonebarger argues they need to have that conversation and option. 19:01 – Stonebarger gets into the three options for Distance Learning which is 20% of the kids, now the school population is reduced by 20%. Now focus on the 80% who could return to school. Says the county is not having that conversation—especially County Board of Education and Superintendents meetings. 22:15 – Stonebarger says he released data to begin having a conversation. He says its not the teachers doing a bad job, they are doing the best they can in the learning environment—the learning environment changed. 25:46 – Has the District broke down the data of those 28% who are failing. What is their homelife and have parents been surveyed? Family dynamics at play? 28:43 – Will the reopening in January happen? What is Stonebarger hearing from parents? 30:50 – We talk about the California Teachers Union stance of not wanting to go back until there is a vaccine.  But a conversation around a vaccine will have to happen. Still no discussion on cost of reopening. 34:50 – Concerns with kids now given the data with kids. I urge the District to dig deeper into the 30% not passing and figure out why. 38:16 – Is the plan to have kids rotate in and out of classrooms on return or will the teachers rotate classrooms?  Maybe 1/3 of the kids go back, asks to local level to be able to make the decision to reopen because they are seeing the effects. 40:29 – With the County/State being in Purple Tier, what is the next step? Stonebarger is asking for a change in policy on a waiver for K-12 schooling.  Says the rules are not logical. We also get into the County Health Numbers. 47:00 – This idea of students being in school for a few hours, if they are already there, why cant students be at school all day? 49:00 – I argue many superintendents are not leading, including Contra Costa County Board of Education. I urge other Districts release their “failure rate” and showcase what is happening to students. We get into how schools are the safest place for them. 54:58 – Stonebarger gives brief update on Special Education and what could happen. 56:19 – Will Liberty Union High School District release the full report and more data? Stonebarger says the District needs to communicate data to the County and post the data on the website. Says this should begin to force the conversation. 58:00 – data is for Brentwood, but what is going on in other areas with greater socioeconomic challenges, what would their numbers show?   More info: https://eastcountytoday.net/liberty-union-high-school-district-board-approves-hybrid-reopening-plan-failure-rates-concerning/

On this episode, I chat with Matt Shupe who is the Chair of the Contra Costa County Republican Party.  He is also a political consultant and does Public Relations Work.  We discuss a variety of issues including Gavin Newsom, COVID-19 shutdowns, status of the republican party, how to get involved and a variety of other items.   Please consider providing a gratuity to support this show at https://patron.podbean.com/contracostatoday   Episode Overview: 00:25 – Introduction of Matt Shupe who is on the show representing himself, not any client or political party.   03:05 – We talk about Harmeet Dillion and her law firm including the Center For American Liberty filing several lawsuits as Governors and states overstep their power. Shupe argues there is politics over science   06:14 – We talk about COVID-19 Hypocrite number one in Governor Gavin Newsom and the dinner at the French Laundry which Newsom apologized and told the world what happened, however, the photographs released show a different story. Shupe also brings up Nancy Pelosi and the hair solon incident.   12:40 – We talk about the lack of accountability, which is happening in Contra Costa County due to the District Attorney’s Office. Shupe says Diana Becton has legalized petty theft under $950 which has huge ramifications. We talk about how in this county, the victim has become the criminal—such as the incidents at Bourbon Highway in Walnut Creek.   22:36 – We jump back to California going into the Purple Tier.  The hypocrisy over enforcement of businesses being shutdown but its okay for hundreds of people to protest, but churches also can’t gather.  We jump into Assemblymembers Kevin Kiley and James Gallagher.   24:22 – We talk about Kevin Kiley being public enemy number one as he fight against Assembly Bill 5 (AB5) which was introduced by Lorena Gonzalez (D-San Diego). AB 5 was rejected by voters who approved Proposition 22 by 58% who support the gig economy.   26:35 – we talk about this Hawaii trip by California legislators during a so called 14-day quarantine for travel in and out of California.     30:48 – I explain what is going on with City Managers, Police Departments, City Governments have retreated on giving out information – no real discussions are occurring in local governments. Community wide discussions are really not wanted, just rammed through policy and ordinances. Shupe jumps into lack of Public Records Requests not even being responded to, which is what is happening at the California Department of Health.   39:05 – Bring up Governor Gavin Newsom possible curfew coming soon.  We get into science vs. data.   43:50 – How people can get involved over the next two-years before the 2022 elections, if people want to get involved with possible running for election, what needs to happen now? Shupe says the goal is to build a bench.  We talk about Assembly District 11 which is currently held by Jim Frazier. 51:55 – I ask Shupe if he believes Gavin Newsom will run for President in 2024.   55:48 – I argue how California Legislators should be rolling back regulations during COVID-19. There is still a backlog of unemployment claims. Shupe talks about the failures of California Departments such as the DMV.   57:13 – Shupe talks about the problem with Republicans in California—who focus on bland topics such as budget.   57:48 – We talk about Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) director Rebecca Saltzman tweeting out that Debora Allen’s victory “shows the not-so-hidden racism of East Bay suburban residents”.  Shupe highlights how she is actually calling a lot of democrats racist because Allen’s District is only 23% republican.  I explain how Director Mark Foley is an east county representative but is pandering to San Francisco and Oakland.    01:03:31 – We briefly touch on Congressman Eric Swalwell on his failed Presidential run.   01:04:11 – Shupe provides advice for people who want to get involved and possibly even run for office.  We get into homeless, what is going on in Texas with people moving out of California.  This idea what republicans in Contra Costa County run out of nowhere, no one knows who they are.   01:12:30 – Why can’t republicans get together in some of these local city council races and decide on which candidate to run so they don’t split the vote – which happened in some local races, including City of Brentwood.   01:18:57 – Shupe talks about his focus over the next two years. He calls the biggest goal for 2022 is to replace the Diana Becton, Contra Costa County District Attorney.   01:21:01 – Shupe plugs how people can get in touch with the Contra Costa County Republic Party and www.LibertyCenter.org   

On this episode, I chat with Antioch City Councilwoman elect Tamisha Walker where we talk about how she got elected, address some of the rumors on her decade old arrest, where she stands on voting blocks, the police department and direction of the city. Episode Overview: 01:05 – we talk about the election and how she is 196 votes ahead of Joy Motts. I ask her how she beat an incumbent city council member and a city council member who previous served in Manny Soliz Jr. 02:53 – We talk about in her district, what she learned on the campaign trail. Also what most residents were curious about and their concerns – traffic safety, blight and trash, and crime. 05:46 – Walker talks about this assumption of a “voting block” with Lamar Thorpe and Monica Wilson.  Walker rejects the idea of voting blocks. 11:11 – Walker urges people to “calm down” on this idea of Charter City, she doesn’t believe it can happen in the 2-years she is serving on the City Council. 12:15 – We get into people calling Tamisha “arsonist” or “felon” on social media based on a decade old arrest. She explains people either believe in the criminal justice system and rehabilitation or you don’t. if you don’t believe it, how can you continue to support a system that doesn’t rehabilitate.  She explains people can change and she needed treatment and mental health support along with spiritual guidance. 16:55 – we discuss this idea that Walker got the “hood vote” which put her over the top to win the City Council Election. 18:12 – We discuss where Walker stands with the Antioch Police Department, possible meetings with community activists.  She also talks about police intimidation during the campaign trail against her and Gabe Makinano. 23:46 – We touch on the City of Brentwood incident involving the Joe Biden mannequin at a Donald Trump supporters house. We talk about how Brentwood is willing to discuss this, Antioch is dragging its feet on a community meeting on racism.  How to we move from agenda pushing to actual dialogue.  We talk about activism and protests and what should and should not occur. 33:35 – Where does Tamisha draw the line from City Councilmember versus community activism.  We talk about the “defund the police” movement. She also says there is too much “word play” going on. She says the city can’t do safety with 80 officers.  We also get into police communication with the community. 41:06 – We discuss the fear that the new City Council will fire Antioch Police Chief Tammany Brooks, that City Clerk position under Ellie Householder will be rewarded with a full-time, fully salaried position. The idea of a charter city is also discussed. Walker says this will not be a “radical” city council. 44:03 – We discuss Ad-Hoc committees versus Standing Committees along with these “serial meetings” that are occurring that no one is talking about. Walker says she wants meetings with impact and wants all meetings to fall under Brown Act and public announcements, staffed and minutes. 46:35 – We talk about racial equity and how Tamisha will push equity in Antioch (Question by Supervisor John Gioia). 50:00 – we talk about the Antioch downtown and how she will work to support downtown business, address homeless issues and should police continue responding to homeless incidents down there. We also get into the idea people think development will stop under this council because developers will not want to work with this council.  She wants a cleaner and safer downtown. 57:49: I bring up the Antioch homeless trailers still sitting in the public works yard.  The need to address the Antioch homeless issue.  We talk about the need for services while Walker calls on more help from Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors Diane Burgis and Federal Glover. 1:07:58 – We discuss youth services and Walker would like to see focus groups and more discussion. 1:10:01 – We talk about the City of Antioch and transparency. 1:12:05 – We close by talking about how much work will need to be done immediately for Antioch to move forward.

On this episode, I chat with Vince Wells, President of the United Professional Firefighters of Contra Costa County, Local 1230. We touch on a variety of topics from Measure X, to the possibility of consolidation of the East Contra Costa Fire Protection District to Contra Costa County Fire, the dynamics of what is going on with the City of Oakley and how the City of Brentwood is exploring working on a funding mechanism for the District.   00:30 – Introduction of Vince Wells 02:15 – We jump into Contra Costa Measure X, a 0.5% sales tax which would invest in fire and paramedic services across the county, keep a regional hospital open, connect residents to essential food, housing and other safety nets to the county and community resources. It would also help fund critical services for children and seniors. Wells explains why the Firefighters are supporting Measure X which could help all 12 fire agencies across the county. 08:37 – We talk about Measure X and Consolidation. What this does for potential consolidation between Contra Costa County Fire, Rodeo-Hercules, and East Contra Costa Fire. Wells shares his vision. 15:33 – We discuss what consolidation would do to auto aid between the borders between the City Antioch, City of Brentwood and City of Oakley. We get into how different fire departments have different policies on responses. I ask if Chief Brian Helmick was justified in his policy of exterior fire attack and no inside fire attack to save homes. 28:58 – Wells says movement on consolidation will come by February. If Measure X fails, a revenue enhancement tax by ECCFPD will need to be voted on. 29:27 – We get into the disagreement between East Contra Costa Fire and the City of Oakley. We get into the rumored CFD’s that Oakley has created, we talk about Station 55 and the agreement. We also get into the bizarre statement issued by Mayor Kevin Romick. He talks about how Bryan Montgomery believes Oakley doesn’t have a fire issue due to auto aid with Antioch engines being close to Oakley. 36:50 – We jump into the City of Brentwood and what they are trying to do in providing funding to the East Contra Costa Fire Protection District to enhance fire service.  We get into the Brentwood 9210 Report and this idea of giving money without sustainability. 45:15 – Wells provides an update on the possibility of City of Antioch getting a 5th fire station. We also talk abut how busy Battalion 8 is (City of Antioch, City of Pittsburg and Bay Point).  Wells further highlights the homeless fires have jumped to 60% of all vegetation fires. 48:42 – We chat about arson and the job that fire investigators are doing. They have been moved to “on shift” because of the call volume. 51:08 – We close on the importance of Measure X and the impact across all of Contra Costa County.  I would argue this measure got lost in the political rhetoric both national and local. 01:01:13 – Final thoughts  

On this episode, I chat Steve Smith who is one of the directors at the East Contra Costa Fire Protection District. We talk about a variety of issues from the District's history, funding issues, the beef with the City of Oakley, and a variety of other issues. 00:33 – Introduction to Steve Smith who has been involved with the Fire District since 2013 as an appointed Board Member. He says he first got involved after the 2006 Citygate Report. 2:20 – We get into how busy the Fire District has been since Chief Brian Helmick taken over to find money for the district, $700k from Byron Bethany Irrigation District, the $6.2 million found and the CCCERA find of $1.7 million. Smith talks about impact of Measure X the might help bring even more revenue. 04:15 – Smith talks about Chief Helmick taking heat for “staffing up” the District. He talks about this fire district trying to overcome neglect for years. 08:08 – We jump into Oakley Community Facilities District and Fire Fees and what is going on with that and why the ECCFPD went public. Smith says the City of Oakley is sandbagging the East Contra Costa Fire Protection District, says Oakley is not fulfilling terms of Station 55.  We talk about these so called approved CFD’s by City of Oakley. Smith says Oakley has a “culture of secrecy” going on. 14:00 – Smith says since 2018, the Fire District is meeting with various candidates as a formal process so candidates understand what is going on. This year, they focused on the Strategic Plan.   15:50 – We get into the upcoming “ask of the public” in terms of revenue enhancement. How do you ask for more funding after multiple tax measures have failed? Now there could be extra money through Measure X plus consolidation is on the table.  Smith says they are still working on financials as they have a lot of moving parts. 18:30 – We talk abut the possibility of consolidation between East Contra Costa Fire Protection District and the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District. 20:50 – We talk about the upcoming election and why voters should consider supporting Steve Smith in his reelection bid. Smith says the public should get a solution that is no longer a band-aid, but a real solution in solving fire service once and for all. 24:00 – Smith says the City of Brentwood has always come through with everything the District has asked of them and end up being 5-0 votes.   25:10 – The Fire District, under Chief Helmick and new board had implemented the creation of an FAQ several years ago. They have worked on educating the public.  Smith highlights there are a lot of people proposing a lot of things, but they are the subject matter experts. 27:25 – I ask Smith what is the one question he gets asked all the time that he is tired of answering.  He talks about reallocation and going to Sacramento. 28:54 – Smith talks about the concept that they are trying to build a coalition of fire districts 30:41 – We talk about the District no longer being the training ground for firefighters, but also there was a time when they did not have enough qualified staff to promote up to Engineer, they also were near brownouts for Station 59 (Discovery Bay) because they didn’t have enough engineers. We also talk about AMR meeting their targets, but ECCFPD is not. 35:22 – We talk about how its taken more than 6 years of education to finally move the ball forward in terms of community knowledge and possibility of tax or consolidation. 40:45 – I ask Steve what has been the most frustrating thing in being a Board Member on the ECCFPD. Smith replies it’s the persistence of East County Voters group. 43:30 – Steve Gets into why voters should support him for re-election.

On this episode, I chat with Indrani Golden who is running for District 3 Brentwood City Council as we talk a variety of issues from homeless, to police, fire service and economic development.   00:46 – intro on Indrani Golden and her background. We get into how COVID-19 has impacted her business. We talk about the importance of pivoting in this economic environment. 05:30 – What made Indrani want to jump into the City Council Race. 06:30 – we talk about her being with the church, the impact they are having with homeless services and seeing the need out there and not enough help available. 08:14 – We jump into public safety with the Brentwood Police Department and what her thoughts are. She calls for at least 10 more officers to be added to the police department. 11:17 – We talk about the East Contra Costa Fire Protection District and the funding issue. We also talk about the potential of Contra Costa County Measure X. 17:00 – We talk about the homelessness in Brentwood and the city response. 20:50 – We discuss transportation in Brentwood and Contra Costa County. 22:55 – Indrani says Bridle Gate has gotten a bad reputation, but says its needed for the schools. 25:30 – We talk abut job creation and economic development for the City of Brentwood. We also get into how Brentwood has responded to COVID-19. 27:49 – Indrani provides her thoughts on Planning Area 1 (PA-1). 32:55 – We talk about agriculture in Brentwood. 35:30 – We talk about youth and senior services.  We get into senior issues such as loneliness. 42:40 – We talk about parks, open space and events. 47:58 – Indrani highlights why voters should support her in this election.

On this episode, I chat with Indrani Golden who is running for District 3 Brentwood City Council as we talk a variety of issues from homeless, to police, fire service and economic development.   00:46 – intro on Indrani Golden and her background. We get into how COVID-19 has impacted her business. We talk about the importance of pivoting in this economic environment. 05:30 – What made Indrani want to jump into the City Council Race. 06:30 – we talk about her being with the church, the impact they are having with homeless services and seeing the need out there and not enough help available. 08:14 – We jump into public safety with the Brentwood Police Department and what her thoughts are. She calls for at least 10 more officers to be added to the police department. 11:17 – We talk about the East Contra Costa Fire Protection District and the funding issue. We also talk about the potential of Contra Costa County Measure X. 17:00 – We talk about the homelessness in Brentwood and the city response. 20:50 – We discuss transportation in Brentwood and Contra Costa County. 22:55 – Indrani says Bridle Gate has gotten a bad reputation, but says its needed for the schools. 25:30 – We talk abut job creation and economic development for the City of Brentwood. We also get into how Brentwood has responded to COVID-19. 27:49 – Indrani provides her thoughts on Planning Area 1 (PA-1). 32:55 – We talk about agriculture in Brentwood. 35:30 – We talk about youth and senior services.  We get into senior issues such as loneliness. 42:40 – We talk about parks, open space and events. 47:58 – Indrani highlights why voters should support her in this election.

On this episode, I chat Marie Arce who is running for Antioch City Council in District 3. We get into why she is running for city council which is improving economic development, cleaning up the city and keeping it safe and working on better taxpayer accountability with reporting.   00:58 – Introduction on who Marie Ace is and she provides a bio. 04:58 – We jump into the school district and if the School Board and City Council can even work together. 06:40 – Marie explains whys he is running for Antioch City Council 8:45 – We talk about Antioch Economic Development and the closure of many businesses recently. Arce shares Antioch isn’t even collecting enough good data to make decisions or attract business. She talks about lack of outreach to local business from the city of Antioch. We also talk about the COVID-19 response. Marie is calling for an incubator program. 18:00 – Marie talks about the budget and taxpayer accountability (Measure W), she asks where all the money is going. She highlights how residents are concerned with how money is being spent and do not trust the city council. She calls on better reporting that is easier for residents to understand. 22:58 – We discuss blight in the City of Antioch. We discuss property owners/business owners maintaining their properties and the spend on illegal dumping.  We get into the Delta Fair Village Apartments. 33:18 – We discuss the homeless and thoughts on how Antioch has responded with their $1 million spend, homeless hotel, a homeless coordinator, etc. She calls for a regional approach. 39:25 – we discuss the Antioch Police Department and Marie is seeking body cameras for police. She applauds Chief Tammany Brooks on his community engagement. We also discuss the Antioch Protests. Marie says she would like to see 130-135 officers which is Chief Brooks recommendation. 43:16 – We discuss specifically District 3 issues and Marie explains what she is hearing and the concerns they have within the District. It comes down to local business, jobs, and change.  We talk about community pride and bringing it back. 52:35 – Marie highlights why voters should support her for Antioch City Council. 54:07 – Marie talks about the loss of her daughter to cancer, the response as a family and continue to live life. She talks about her damaged signs. 1:01:48 – How voters can get in touch with Marie Arce  

On this episode, I chat Olga Vidriales who is running for Brentwood City Council in District 3. We get into the Brentwood COVID-19 response, economic development, PA-1 and the growth within he City as well as public safety. 00:59 – Introduction and background on Olga. 02:05 – Why she is running for city council and some of the favorite things she has done for Brentwood. 04:08 – How Olga believes Brentwood has handled the COVID-19 response. We get into what else she would like to see. 08:28 – We get into how Brentwood could make up the $4 million estimated loss due to COVID, where could/should Brentwood cut? 10:11 – We chat about East Contra Costa Fire Protection District. Olga calls on residents funding their “fair share”. She highlights how she previously voted “no” on parcel tax, but she has changed to a “yes” after being more educated. 16:50 – We talk about Brentwood Police and their response to the national rhetoric. Thoughts on future growth of the police department and adding officers. 19:45 – We jump into homeless and possible solutions. 27:09 – We talk about Brentwood growth and developers. We also talk about the infill projects. 34:46 – Olga discusses Planning Area 1 (PA-1) and how she would like to see that developed. 37:46 – Olga provides her thoughts on the possibility of the youth center and the $100k spend on an architect. 40:29 – Olga provides her thoughts on senior services and what is needed. 42:17 – We talk about the landscaping tax for those in Deer Ridge to make the landscape improved. 44:45 – Olga talks about District 3 specifically and residents concerns she is hearing—she says growth is a big issue and the circulation around Shadow Lakes being “horrible”.  46:20 – We get into the oil drilling in the Brentwood hills. 49:19 – Olga highlights why voters should support her for city council.

On this episode, I chat with Oakley City Councilwoman Claire Alaura who is running for reelection. We talk about a variety of topics which includes economic development, police department, East Contra Costa fire Episode Overview 00:30 – Introduction of Claire Alaura 02:08 – We talk about the baby steps over the past 4 years by the City of Oakley, Claire shares what she is most proud of. 07:55 – We talk about the downtown and finally there is interest for businesses to come to Oakley. 11:15 – We chat about “safety” and the new Oakley Police Chief and the Oakley Police Department. 15:00 – Claire talks about the need to support the East Contra Costa Fire Protection District. 18:00 – Continuing the talk on safety, she also shares how the city is analyzing ADA compliance and looking to be more ADA compliant within the law and services being improved.  She also talks about being neighborly and looking out for one another. 19:29 – We jump into economic development with both Amazon and Skipolini’s came to Oakley and brief update on the train station. 26:25 – Claire talks about amenities and what she wants to bring, such as a library, expand the recreation center, we also get into the 55-acre park. 35:55 – We talk about Code Enforcement and how Oakley residents have responded negatively to actions by code enforcement at times. 38:50 – Claire discusses some of her ideas to help bring more business to the City of Oakley 42:30 – We jump into homeless, how do we work regionally to reduce the amount of homeless in East Contra Costa County. 45:41 – What Claire is looking most forward to if reelected. 47:48 – Claire shares why voters should consider voting for her for a second term.

On this episode, I chat with Brian Swisher, former Brentwood Mayor who is running for Brentwood City Council in District 1. We talk about a variety of issues from why he is running, the need for better city leadership, police services, development and infrastructure. Episode Overview: 00:33 – Introduction on Brian Swisher. Who he is and why he is running after previously serving as Mayor in 2002-2006. 02:37 – Swisher explained why he did not run again in 2006 due to medical issues for his youngest son and family came first. We get into Brentwood moving from 2-year mayor terms to 4-year terms. 08:20 – why he is not running for mayor, why city council? 09:30 – Swisher says Brentwood needs a better direction and leadership has faltered. We get int economic development and Amazon going to the City of Oakley. 15:15 – We get into bringing business/jobs to the City of Brentwood. 21:10 – We chat about PA-1 24:55 – We get into growth and infrastructure. We get into the near screwup by the city council on costing residents an extra $7 million on the $44 million Waste Water Treatment Plant.   32:50 – We talk agricultural in Brentwood and how to improve it.   34:10 – We jump into growth and how Swisher believes Brentwood has grown “right”. 40:19 – Swisher says people on the City Council are making votes to pander for votes rather than what is best for Brentwood.  We chat about Deer Ridge and Shadow Lakes and the time the council has spent on this area given how 3 councilmembers live in this area. 44:08 – We go back to Agricultural and expand it, make it better and possibly get more wineries. 49:28 – Swisher provides his thoughts on the Brentwood Police Department.  He calls defunding the police department a “terrible idea”. He provides his thoughts on how Brentwood Police can better engage the community. 57:35 – We talk homeless in Brentwood and how right now, solutions are basically just spreading them around in the area. Swisher calls it a statewide issue. Swisher reminds the community that many fought against the battered women’s shelter. He says this issue needs to be more of a regional effort. 1:05:20 – We get into the youth center vote and the 4-1 vote. Swisher says Brentwood has ignored the youth for a long time and is 100% in support of it. 1:07:02 – Swisher talks about Bridle Gate project which passed in 2005 which was 165 homes and provide access from the Bypass to Shadow Lakes which would stop the driving through Raley’s parking lot to their homes. He highlights how Seeno is trying to take advantage of every loophole it can and Swisher urges the council to “deny, deny, deny” this new proposal. He talks about how development creates infrastructure. 1:09:28 – We close on Senior Services and bring more services out here. 1:12:33 – How has the last 20 years changed his perspective on life and leadership serving at 30 as Mayor and now nearly 50. How has life experience helped him. 1:15 – Why should voters support Swisher?

On this episode, I chat with Republican Candidate Julie Mobley who is running against California State Senator Steve Glazer. We get into a variety of topics from COVID-19 response, AB 5, Wildfires, Police, to other regulations.   00:48 – We get into why Julie was quiet during the primary – which had to with being on the Contra Costa Civil Grand Jury. We get into what she learned and got out of it. 05:15 – Who is Julie Mobley. She provides her background. 08:10 – Why she wanted to run for State Senate, she gets into how California is headed in the wrong direction.  She is encouraging more collaborative government because the results are not there. She urges more balance and new thinking to Sacramento. 10:45 – Mobley calls for more creative offerings in terms of COVID-19 response while minimizes health risks to open schools and business open. She highlights how Senator Steve Glazer called for a complete shutdown. 16:30 – We get into the debate over climate change. Fires. Power shutoffs. Solar investments. Thinning of forests and creating more fire breaks. 23:10 – Housing Healthcare, education, transportation, Mobley talks about wanting to increase services while reducing costs. She talks about new models for supportive services for homeless.  We also get into unions and special interest. 34:50 – We jump into Assembly Bill 5 (AB5) and the impact, regardless of Uber and Lyft. 37:30 – We get into Mobley’s belief of “establishing metrics to track progress goals” which is the problem with Sacramento, thousands of bills pass, but no real checks and balances if they work or not. 41:50 – We jump into Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) and how Steve Glazer ran on “BART Sucks” but little has been done. 44:06 – Mobley explains how she would be different than Senator Glazer. I talk about what frustrates me is that fact he ignores East Contra Costa County. 47:30 – we get into Law Enforcement/Police and how they have been crucified in Sacramento, what is her approach to bringing in more police officers to the industry. 58:15 – Mobley talks about attracting more business to California as regulations are hurting business. 1:00:00 – Mobley explains why voters should consider voting for her for State Senate.

On this episode, I chat with Antioch Mayoral Candidate Gabriel V. Makinano Sr. We talk about his background, his work with Operation Ceasefire and other community efforts, along with where he stands on Antioch Police, the homeless and economic development.   00:52 – Gabriel provides a quick bio and his background. 02:50 – We get into Operation Ceasefire and the impact it has had within the community. 04:55 – We get into the passion Gabriel has for helping people, but also talks about the need for more pride in the community and in the City of Antioch. He calls the City Council disconnected from the community. 10:15 – We get into homeless and housing – which includes possibility of shelters. Makinano says the mayor and city council has a “good talk” but no action on the homeless issue. He also gets into shame and guilt with many just embarrassed. 17:24 – Makinano explains how he bounced back from shame and guilt of a hard time in his life before finding his path on becoming who he wants to be. He explains how he moved forward and the importance of programs.  He wants to bring more services to Antioch to assist those in need. 20:47 – We get into Youth Services and the Antioch Unified School District. We get into the Boys and Girls Club rejecting coming to the City of Antioch. We get into needing more Marcus Malu’s of the world and bringing them to Antioch. 25:00 – We get into the Antioch Police Department. Makinano calls for more training while going back into the community and “break the ice” and more officers from Antioch. 29:30 – We get into how the Antioch Police Department and community could begin to have a conversation given the national rhetoric and the protesters. 33:05 – Makinano talks about his work with Deer Valley High School and then Dallas Ranch Middle School and working with the kids. 35:10 - He questions the actions of Mayor Sean Wright and councilmember Lamar Thorpe. We jump into economic development. 36:58 – As Makinano is not the “typical” candidate, how does someone like him win? 40:10 – We talk about the COVID-19 response, Makinano talks about food scarcity. 42:50 – Makinano highlights why voters should consider voting for him as Mayor of the City of Antioch.  I declare Makinano as “Mr. Passion” given his motivation towards helping people. 47:39 – How to get in touch with Makinano.

In this episode, I chat with Brentwood Vice Mayor Joel Bryant who is running for Mayor.  We talk about what he has accomplished on the City Council the past 10 years, we talk about public safety and economic development and where he sees Brentwood headed. Episode Overview 1:23 – Joel explains why he is running for mayor.  He talks about public safety (police and fire), economic development while talking about the 09:19 – how do we take advantage of Brentwood having the ability to reach 11,000 potential customers with fiber-optic service 12:50 – We address the knock on Bryant that he has been “quiet” the last few weeks, Bryant explains he had been dealing with the death of his mother in Tulsa, Oklahoma. 14:59 – We get into Bryant’s thoughts on the Brentwood Police Department and the national rhetoric.  We also get into the importance of creating its own dispatch center. We also talk about “Black Lives Matter” and how Bryant says there is no place anywhere for bigotry. 28:22 – We get into the East Contra Costa Fire Protection District and a solution. We get into how the District was formed, the financial issues, history and more.  We also get into the possibility of consolidation. Bryant also explains how LAFCO will not even allow it to happen. 39:32 – We discuss the Brentwood Homeless situation and possible solutions. 49:53 – We move into agriculture and further development to become an attraction. Bryant talks about saving nearly 1,000 acres of agricultural land. We get into Tess Kitchen and the fiasco with the county. We talk about more wineries and farming land. He wants farmers to no longer be hindered by unnecessary regulations. We also get into the erroneous Harvest Time grant – where two councilmembers opted to reduce it, three councilmemebrs rejected that and increased it. 59:00 – We get into the Youth Center and the vote for the architect which Karen Rarey opposed. Turned out the architect will now also provide services for senior center within same contract.  Bryant talks about the potential with the building including working with the non-profits and building trades for those who may not go to college. 1:11:40 – Where does Bryant see Brentwood headed in next 4-years. 1:16:16 – Bryant highlights why voters should consider voting for him for Mayor. 1:20:50 – How you can contact Bryant.

On this episode, I chat with Susannah Meyer who is running for Brentwood City Council in District 3. We get into a variety of issues from social services, public safety and economic development which needs to help the middle class and produce jobs.   Episode Overview: 00:46 – who is Suzannah Meyer and her background 03:00 – We get into this fake rhetoric of Meyer “job hopping”. 03:54 – Why did you decide to run for Brentwood City Council. She explains how East Contra Costa County, specifically Brentwood, is ignored in terms of services and there needs to be more advocating to bring senior/youth services to Brentwood. We get into need for more partnerships with non-profits to facilitate more programs. 10:21 – Meyer highlights her concerns on the economy and jobs. She talks about the need to better promote business, engage people on how to support each other and bring in new industry that create jobs to assist the middle class. Says small business should be given more of a voice. 16:10 – Meyer explains why she is not accepting developer monies in the campaign. We get into growth, Bridle Gate, etc. She is calling for smart & responsible growth. 21:22 – We talk about public safety and the East Contra Costa Fire Protection District. 27:50 – We talk about Brentwood Police and Meyer provides her thoughts. She applauds Brentwood Police for being quick to respond to national rhetoric. We get into racism in the schools and how we should have a zero tolerance and should begin an open discussion on the topic.  She says Brentwood PD does need more officers. 35:30 – we talk about homeless and where Meyer is at on this issue. She says there needs to be wrap around services and partnerships with the county and non-profits. We get into alternative housing, I raise the issue about what is wrong with mobile home parks? 44:35 – Youth Services and the possible Youth Center. But Meyer argues it could be more such as non-profit services, job training, counseling, etc. 47:12 – We get into the “no drilling” in the Brentwood Hills on county land. 49:00 – We talk about preserving the agricultural land. She talks about ag-tourism but also how the farmers market should be year-round and make agricultural our lifestyle. 55:55 – Meyer explains why voters should consider voting for her for Brentwood City Council.

On this episode, I chat with Antwon Webster, Antioch City Council Candidate for District 3. We get into his support of Antioch Police and how the city needs more police, he wants to improve economic development and work on Antioch providing more transparent government.   00:45 – intro on who Antwon Webster is and why he is running for city council. 02:13 – Antwon talks about when he decided to run, he was approached by Antioch Councilmember Lamar Thorpe who told him he had no chance and then tried to intimidate him into dropping out of the race. 05:50 – We get into the issues and why Webster is running: crime, economic development and transparent government.  He argues Antioch needs more police officers and is not in favor of the defund the police movement. He calls for more dialogue between the city and protesters. 12:20 – We get into economic development and how to help businesses that are already here. We talk about impact of marijuana dispensaries on the budget, investing in our local business.  We also get into the $1 million Opportunity Lives Here Campaign. 21:45 – We get into what Antwon means by “transparent government” and we discuss this creation of multiple “ad-hoc committees”. 30:15 – We get into a discussion on the homeless and Antwon’s solution, which he calls for more privatization in handling it.  We also get into impact and study provided by Keith and Iris Archuleta and what they have done. 35:36 – We discuss the behavior of Nichole Gardner in her approach to homelessness and attitude towards police captured on video, even from her own recordings. 38:38 – How do we get the City Council and Antioch School Board to finally work together. 40:50 – We get into the Mayors race and how nasty its become with the rhetoric. 42:35 – We play a game on whether or not city councilmembers have done their job, we run down the list and Antwon gives his thoughts. 44:03 – Antwon gives his thoughts on School Resource Officers 44:48 – We chat about District 3 specific issues and what Antwon wants to address while working to create more opportunities for youth. 50:00 – Antwon provides an overview of why voters should consider voting for him.  

On this episode I chat with Ken Turnage II, candidate for Antioch School Board in District 3. We get into why he is running for school board and how parent involvement opportunities need to be improved, school safety and building bridges between the community, school board and City of Antioch.   01:04 – We jump into the elephant in the room which were his comments on COVID-19 and herd immunity and if Kenny would have done it differently. 02:27 – We get into why Turnage is running for school district 03:50 – we discuss parent involvement and how Turnage believes he can help improve that. We get into the idea of moving school board meetings to Saturdays to potentially ensure more parent involvement. 09:14 – we get into the Antioch vs. San Ramon debate. Why the comparison? 09:58 – Turnage gets into how he would help reduce chaos on the school board. 14:04 – How do you feel the Superintendent and Administration have handled dealing with this school board? 16:16 – Turnage provides his opinion and thoughts on School Resource Officers and safety. 20:38 – How would Turnage better work with the City of Antioch and School District to work together for common goals versus pointing the finger. 26:00 – We talk about this idea that school board members can change “test scores”. Turnage talks about it has to do with parent involvement and buying into the academies within AUSD. 27:48 – We talk about the AUSD Budget. 31:10 – Turnage shares his opinion on Charter Schools 34:25 – Has the school board participated enough with the launch of Distance Learning? 39:19 – Final thoughts, Turnage highlights his vision for the District upon returning to actual learning. 42:05 – Turnage highlights why voters should consider voting for him for Antioch School Board.  

In this episode, I chat with Manny Soliz Jr. who is a candidate for Antioch City Council is District 1. We talk about a variety of issues from what he is seeing on the planning commission, homeless, the police department and the divisiveness currently going on. We talk about economic development and what needs to be changed for a better Antioch. 01:20 – Soliz talks about being on the Antioch Planning Commission and talks about the homeless trailers and why a site was never selected. 06:30 – We talk about Soliz talking about “poor leadership” and “divisiveness” in the City of Antioch. We get into economic development and back to homeless. 13:45 – We talk about how divisive the City of Antioch has become. 16:35 – We get into the treatment of Mayor Sean Wright and the rhetoric against him from protesters. 20:47 – Soliz talks about Defund the Police and Police Reform. We talk about 2012 and the impact of laying off Antioch Police Officers. 29:00 – we get into economic development on E 18th.  We also get into the rental program and fees. We then move into Antioch’s perception even with a PIO and Opportunity Campaign. 33:40 – Soliz talks about how he would represent the entire city, not just District 1, but we discuss the idea of Sycamore Corridor Rivertown along with E 18th to KMART. Aside from Rivertown, the rest of the area in District 1 has been ignored.  Soliz gives his vision of where District 1 is headed.   39:20 – We get into the fact Antioch City Council brought in an economic development director and never gave him a budget.  We talk about what stops investors from coming into Antioch. 45:47 – How do we get the City of Antioch and Antioch Unified School District to work together and “get along” versus just pointing the finger at one another. 51:45 – Blight in District 1 52:50 – Beede Lumber Yard and what the real story is. 55:40 – We get into this idea of “C” level business owners downtown versus bringing in “A” business players which would draw people downtown and to the City of Antioch. 57:25 – Thoughts on the concept of shutting down Second Street in order to open it up to more outside dinning and walking/bicycles. 60:00 – Manny gives his reason why voters should consider voting for him.

On this episode, I chat with Sandra White who is a running for Antioch City Council in District 4. White is an Antioch Crime Commissioner who is running to support law enforcement and reduce crime. She also plans on focusing on Economic Development, and seeks ways to bring Antioch together.   00:45 – Intro about who is Sandra White 01:45 – Why did White get into the Antioch Crime Prevention Commission. I get into what happened to the Crime Prevention Commission and why the City Council is not promoting it as much as they used to. 06:20 – White explains the transition from being a Crime Prevention Commissioner to wanting to be on the Antioch City Council. 07:58 – White gives her reaction to the treatment of Mayor Sean Wright. We get into not being able to speak on a record or performance, one has to find ways to draw attention to other issues.  White argues when you have a poor performance record, you have to find another item to run on, in this case, its race to distract people from city business. 13:49 – White explains what she believes the Antioch City Council neglected most. White highlights her vision for Deer Valley Plaza and Slatten Ranch areas. 19:25 – White explains there is no reason for the City Council to discuss the idea of opening the police substation at the community center to assist in cutting down on response times and have a police presence in Southeast Antioch to help citizens feel safer. 21:15 – White gets into the protest rhetoric right now against the Antioch Police Department and what she is hearing in the crime prevention commission meetings. 28:00 – We discuss School Resource Officers and where she stands on the issue. She talks about her experience working at Deer Valley High School and some of the things she saw on campus. She argues more SRO’s are needed than the six they are getting. 32:40 – White explains how ego’s need to be set aside so both the City of Antioch and Antioch Unified School District can work together. 34:50 – How do we begin to make Antioch a desirable place to be? 37:40 – We discuss the homeless and how to address it in the City of Antioch 43:50 – Why should voters support you?

On this episode, I chat with Tony Tiscareno who is running for Antioch City Council in District 2. He previously served on the council and is running again to focus on improving the Somersville/Delta Fair Cooridor, address the homeless issues and work on improving transparency within the City. Episode Overview 00:39 – Tiscareno explains why he is running for city council for another term. 02:54 – We get into the dynamics of “chaos” on the current Antioch City Council and Antioch in general. We get into a discussion on the current protests going on in the city. 06:50 – Tiscareno explains how he can help bridge the gap between the city, school district, police department and protesters. 08:23 – Tiscareno highlights his priorities as a city councilmember in District 2. He discusses the Somersville area and what could be done.  He says the area around Delta Fair has become a ghost town and need to do better working with the owners. 16:00 – We get into the homeless discussion, the trailers and need to work with the county. 25:06 – Tiscareno talks Transparency within Antioch, with the police department and the need for body cameras (advocating since 2014 for it).  We talk about number of officers needed—he would like to get to 140 officers but realizes the budget cannot sustain that. 32:12 – Tiscareno says he is not in favor of “defund the police”, would rather address systematic racism. 37:18 – We talk about the Antioch budget and council spending. 39:32 – We get into need for more senior services and housing. 41:06 – The need for the City Council and School District to work together and simply talk. Tiscareno gets into how he would help bridge the gap between the two. 47:00 – COVID-19 and how do we help local business. 51:01 – After a 4-year layoff, does Tiscareno represent “old guard” or new ideas for Antioch? 56:30 – Tiscareno talks about some of his hard decisions he made in the past on the council.   59:00 – Final thought as Tiscareno explains why residents should consider voting for him

On this episode, I chat with Faye Maloney, a police sergeant at a local police department in the San Francisco Bay Area who is running for Brentwood City Council in District 1. Episode Overview:   00:50 – Introduction of why Faye is running for Brentwood City Council 03:44 – What was it about Brentwood that made Faye want to get involved… she says it was the homeless issue because its increasing in the city. She talks about the social nuisances along with the need for services. She also talks about the homeless area behind Target which is actually an Antioch, Brentwood and Oakley issue—there are 100 individuals behind Target, 50% of them do work. 14:33 – We get into Faye’s story and how she got into law enforcement which started with her being parental abducted at age 6. She did not see her mother for the next 7-years while her dad took her to different countries. She talks about when she returned to the US, the American Flag means so much hope for her. 21:44 – She talks about being homeless at age 17, while volunteering at the Sheriffs Office in Sacramento, they mentored her and helped her get on her feet and after graduating High School, she was hired at the Sheriffs Dept. At age 19, became a 9-1-1 dispatcher while going to college. 26:43 – What are some of the reasons why Faye is running for Brentwood City Council. She talks about development and lack of infrastructure from hospitals, to roads/transportation, economic development. 29:07 – what would Faye like to see in terms of improved economic development form helping local business to the agricultural and tourism with Harvest Time. 36:40 – How do we move forward with PA-1 in Brentwood and the current plan. 40:35 – Low income housing in the City of Brentwood, Faye shares her ideas. 44:15 – We discuss Brentwood Police and its 5th beat, its “quality of life” unit it plans to create to address community policing. She urges police to engage with community at a higher level. She also provides her opinion of how Brentwood PD responded to protesters. 51:40 – We get into East Contra Costa Fire Protection District and what should be Brentwoods role in a solution. 55:20 – We discuss the “no drilling” campaign up in the Brentwood Hills. 59:55 – Faye talks about Youth Services and the talk about the possibility of a Youth Center. 1:01:30 – We get into Senior Services in Brentwood and if there are enough services available. 1:06:30 – We discuss human trafficking and Faye’s plan to raise awareness on the issue given her experience. 1:12:00 – Faye explains what sets her apart from the other candidates.

On this episode, I chat with Brentwood City Councilwoman Karen Rarey, who is running for Brentwood Mayor this fall. We go over a series of issues from economic development to public safety. 01:15 – What made Rarey want to run for Mayor. She explains what a “Better Brentwood” means to her which focuses on economic development and higher paying and higher quality jobs. 03:09 – Rarey gets into how we can maintain the businesses we have here vs. focusing on bringing in new business. 07:32 – We talk about the Brentwood Police Department and its future. 11:05 – We get into the national rhetoric on police and if it matches Brentwood Police. 16:25 – We get into a “Brentwood Only” Fire Department and where we are headed with the East Contra Costa Fire Protection District. Rarey says for Brentwood to start its own Dept. it would cost Brentwood $17 million – a $800-$1k tax per Brentwood parcel annually. 20:43 – Rarey talks about her Open Letter to East County Voters for Equal Protection (ECV). We get into where we go from here which includes Community Facility Districts for fire service. 27:50 – Rarey explains smart growth in the City of Brentwood knowing we are 80% buildout already and where we can go with future development. We get into rezoning and potential unintended consequences due to state law and land use grabs. The need for more affordable housing. 36:26 – Why can’t Brentwood invest in more “starter homes” for people. 39:50 – We talk about homeless and solutions on homelessness in Brentwood. Rarey explains many are from Brentwood, but others are coming in from Antioch and Stockton. 46:00 – We talk about blight in Brentwood and what is being done. 47:16 – Drilling in Brentwood, what is Rarey’s position on that. 49:50 – Rarey talks about Brentwood spending habits lately (budget question). 53:14 – Rarey gives her opinion on new city manager Tim Ogden 54:00 – Rarey talks about Deer Ridge & Shadow Lakes and its future. Where can it go from here and how will she guide this as Mayor. 57:58 – Idea of creating a tax so Brentwood could have its own municipal golf course? 01:02:35 – divided Brentwood, how will you work to bring people together on a variety of issues? We get into gas stations, Costco possibly coming, fixing Sand Creek Road to Deer Valley.   01:08:00 – I explain the types of interview I am doing with candidates. 01:08:37 – Rarey provides her “elevator pitch”. 01:10:46 – Agriculture and how does Brentwood move forward with it.

On this episode, I chat with Republican Candidate Janell Proctor who is running for California State Assembly District 14 against Tim Grayson. We get into her priorities which include repeal of AB5, repealing the gas tax and making California more business friendly. Episode Overview: 00:45 – introduction 01:45 – Janell shares why she is running for State Assembly District 14 against Assemblyman Tim Grayson. 04:00 – Janell talks about women in politics and how its changed and we get into the Assemblywoman Buffy Wicks situation where she was not allowed a proxy vote. 06:15 – Janell explains how Assembly Bill 5 is a top priority and why. 09:38 – Janell also wants to repeal the gas tax (Prop 6) 11:40 – She further highlights the need for California Lawmakers to simplify ballot propositions and bills so they are more easily understandable. 13:00 – We talk about COVID-19 and we get into healthcare with people not being punished for pre-existing system or cancer. We also get into H1N1. 19:30 – We get into the state providing forbearance and rent forgiveness/protections. 21:40 – We get into affordable housing and Assemblyman Tim Grayson continues to push it. We also get into homeless and solutions on homelessness. 31:15 – We get into fire service statewide with all the fires and the need for better planning and updating our infrastructure. 34:50 – we get into Janell’s past as she was once a ballerina. 35:53 – We get into law enforcement and where she is at with the national rhetoric. She also talks about her ride along with the Pittsburg Police Department. She also shares her experience with Concord Police Department with an incident on her street involving Black Lives Matter. She talks about reallocating funds from education to fund social workers and education into society.  We also get into how Tim Grayson is supporting and pushing bills that do not support law enforcement. We also get into Prop 47. 50:10 – We get into how we can make California more business friendly. 52:17 – Janell talks again about AB 5 and the negative impacts its having. 53:00 – Janell talks about how one of her goals is to find more ways to support Veterans. 57:40 – Janell highlights why voter should support her and how you can get in touch with her.

On this episode, I chat with Jovita Mendoza who is running for Brentwood City Council in District 1. We get into her platform where she urges the city to work on creating jobs, Project Area 1 (PA1), sticking to the general plan. We also talk about transportation, possibility of Costco coming to Brentwood and public safety. Episode Overview: 01:30 – Jovita gets into why she decided to run for Brentwood City Council. 02:30 – What are Jovita’s issues that she is running on and work on if elected. She highlights the need for local jobs, Project Area 1 which is in District 1, sticking to the General Plan, 07:00 – We get into Transportation in Brentwood and BART, possible transportation hub. 09:48 – Jovita gets into small business and helping local business that are already in operation in the City of Brentwood.  She talks about need for better marketing; more entities that need to be brought together. 16:31 – We get into fire service and emergency response. 21:04 – Jovita shares her thoughts on Brentwood Police Department and the national rhetoric. 25:38 – We get into oil drilling in Brentwood, Jovita explains what is going on with the drilling on Deer Valley Road where 1,000 feet from Brentwood homes is oil drilling. 30:44 – Costco possibly coming to City of Brentwood. 33:37 – Jovita gets into the homeless and what can be done. 36:40 – with Districts, how would you work with other councilmembers to ensure District 1 is taken care of while also working with the rest of the city needs. 39:30 – Where is Jovita on this Youth Center & Technology Center. 43:00 – If elected, what are some of Jovita’s first items she wants to work on. 44:13 – how do we continue to preserve agriculture in Brentwood? Possibility of more wineries. 48:55 – Jovita gets into what people in Brentwood are concerned about. 51:30 – Jovita highlights the Bridle Gate Project and how to get involved with it. 54:54 – Jovita explains why voters should consider voting for her for city council.

On this episode, I chat with Ryan Raimondi who is running for Mayor of Brentwod at just 18-years-old. Ryan shares why he is running for mayor, his background, and his variety of issues facing the city and what he hopes to accomplish.   00:44 – Ryan explains why he decided to run for Brentwood Mayor 04:08 – Who is Ryan and what is his background? 06:15 – What was the reaction after making this announcement he was running for mayor? 08:05 – what issue made him jump into the race. Ryan explains public safety, but more importantly he wanted to serve the community. He talks about Public Safety, more business friendly, more community friendly to non-profits and active in partnering with local colleges and agencies. 20:25 – We get into Public Safety and Ryan talks about Brentwood Police and the East Contra Costa Fire Protection District. 30:35 – Ryan gets into Brentwood Police and building the trust between police and the community. 35:40 – We get into the golf course at Deer Ridge and Shadow Lakes, Ryan shares his thoughts. 41:20 – He gets into areas of the community he would like to see improved. 42:48 – We talk about the agriculture community and preserving it. 45:00 – Ryan shares his thoughts on how to bring the community together. 46:25 – We chat about development and growth. 53:29 – What do you bring that is different than Joel Bryant and Karen Rarey. Also, does age even matter? 56:45 – We get into sports, will there be High School Football this year?

On this episode, I chat with Tamisha Walker, candidate for Antioch City Council, District 1 where we talk about a variety of issues from the Antioch Police Department, community engagement, economic development, homeless, violence prevention strategies to many other items. 1:00 – We get into how I have been trying to interview Tamisha since June.  I get into her speech in front of the Antioch Police Department and shared her story about police interaction after the death of George Floyd. 05:12 – she speaks about Operation Ceasefire and the lack of buy in by local government. How do we grow that program and get he community to participate? Tamisha explains people want an outlet to challenge violence in the city of Antioch—especially gun related violence. She explains why it was working in the City of Richmond. 12:06 – Tamisha explains why she is running for Antioch City Council including lack of participation from the community. We talk about how Cavallo Corridor and Sycamore Corridor and A Street areas are being ignored, the focus is basically 2nd Street downtown by city hall. 16:00 – Tamisha explains what her ideas of focus will be – including economic development, youth development, violence prevention through reimagine public safety efforts—investing in violence prevention strategies. We get into COVID-19 and impact on the budget. Need to focus on small business and the pandemic is not going away. 22:50 – We get into Ad-Hoc Committees, Tamisha explains why Ad-hoc committees bother her and the city council owes the residents more opportunity to participate. 27:40 – Tamisha gets into what she is hearing on the campaign trail from the community – city has to do better community engagement, community wants to be informed and involved. Violence Prevention and what can be done. Basketball Courts near Cavallo & 18th Street. She explains how she wants to know what they can do and is tired of hearing what they cannot do – she wants to know what is possible. 31:04 – What can be done to improve police relations with the community. She talks about a “middle of the road” solution. In Antioch, they are either “pro” police or “anti” police—many are in the middle who want quality services with a department that is willing to be in the community. She argues that Antioch Police need to get uncomfortable and have conversations. 34:15 – Tamisha talks about how the Richmond Police Department was able to work with the community and how it may work in the City of Antioch. She says Antioch City Leaders need to be willing to take charge and have deep conversations with the police chief. She further highlights the community is waiting for a decision on the Officer Michael Mellone decision and how public trust matters. We talk about need for crime commission to have more teeth in their role. 46:45 – We jump back into why Tamisha is running and its to be part of the community and work with the community while highlighting how Antioch has weak leadership. She highlights how to bridge a community back together. 49:22 – We get into homeless and what could be done. Tamisha shares some of her ideas. 01:03:18 – Tamisha explains how Antioch does not have any campaign contribution limits. Candidates can be bought by developers, unions, etc. 01:04:22 – Why should people vote for Tamisha? 01:06:47 – how to reach out to Tamisha or join the campaign. 01:07:33 – Tamisha plugs her non-profit at my request as she runs the Safe Return Project

On this episode, we chat about social media strategy with Samantha Semans of Ten10Social, Hillary Dittmore of Socially Hilary and Michael Pohl of Bay Area Aquatics. This podcast was an open discussion aimed at helping local business improve their social media. 00:40 – Introductions of Hillary Dittmore, Michael Pohl and Samantha Semans. 03:19 – Why social media? Why do business need social media and not just have a website anymore? 05:55 – Posting a photo and say “buy something”, what is the best way to make a post? Do not try and sell 24/7… build trust and let people get to know you. Its about building a community. 10:00 – Navigating different audiences for different platforms. Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, etc. Working on creating appropriate graphics and postings. 12:52 – How do people get started with social media and working with a professional social media manager. 16:40 – What is a social media audit? 18:45 – Biggest change and challenge working with restaurants during the shutdown. As well as impact on brick and mortar. 22:00 – Staying in the forefront while being closed during COVID-19, what are some strategies? 23:45 – How to stay motivated during COVID-19. How to keep it positive while providing value? 27:35 – Advice for page managers dealing with negativity. When to delete posts, comments or just ban people.  Community vs. business relationship. 34:14 – I ask for advice in dealing with comments on EastCountyToday. 39:10 – Social media is false security, we know who you are when you are commenting negativity. If you are a business owner and being ugly in groups/pages, it could hurt your business. 42:25 – What is the value of “likes” and “shares”? Instead, focus on engagement rate. 46:22 – When we are out of COVID-19, when does everyone flip the switch to selling the “experience” again. We then talk about the Pac-man style masks that open as you eat. 50:25 – Thoughts on influencers. 01:01:00 – why do women grow audiences so much faster then men? 01:02:40 – Final Thoughts

On this episode, we hold an immediate reaction to a proposal by Antioch City council members Joy Motts and Lamar Thorpe that would spend $1 million on 32-rooms at the Executive Inn to house the homeless on E. 18th in the City of Antioch.  We then talk about other homelessness issues in the City, go over a timeline of what the City Council has done or not done in resolving homeless issues and touch on other topics.   00:43 – Intro of Manny Soliz, Sandra White & Ken Turnage II 01:20 – Manny Soliz, a former Antioch City Council Member (1996-200) and Antioch Planning Commissioner, and formerly on Antioch Parks and Recreation Commissioner. Soliz has pulled papers to run against Joy Motts in District 1. 02:49 - Sandra White, an Antioch Crime Commissioner with a background in corporate business. She is now a candidate for Antioch City Council in District 4. 04:18 – Ken Turnage, a former Antioch Planning Commissioner who has a business owner right down the street from this proposal. He has pulled papers to run for Mayor. *Note fore clarification purposes, neither Soliz or White were representing Antioch, but rather themselves as individuals as residents of the City of Antioch. 06:01 – We discuss the press conference held by Antioch Councilmembers Lamar Thorpe and Joy Motts to lease the Executive Inn Motel for the homeless. A 32-room facility at $1 million per year. The proposal goes before the council on July 28, 2020. 14:20 – Manny Soliz explains this idea for the Executive Inn being for the homeless is recycled from 7-years ago that has come back. Soliz further highlights loss of revenue from the rooms, the City will lose occupancy room tax ($100k approx.) which would impact Animal Services. 16:35 – Sandra White argues “why Antioch” for this homeless motel services? Now Antioch is inviting one of the largest encampments in east county to E 18th street, plus trailers and RV’s.  All while defunding the Antioch Police Department. Meanwhile, Turnage argues this proposal is right next to a school. 20:24 – I argue Thorpe and Motts did not need a press conference to announce this… this was done for grandstanding and attention while working with the Contra Costa County. It has also been stated that in this whole year and a half of ad-hoc committee, neither Thorpe nor Motts have attended any of the Contra Costa County Council on Homelessness let alone a ride along with the Antioch Police Community Engagement Team who deal directly with homeless. 28:30 – What would you spend $1 million in city money on in Antioch? 36:20 – Antioch Police Community Engagement Team and their role in responding to homeless. Why not take $1 million and expand CET team with a counselor or psychologist and as a team they go out making the rounds? White, Soliz and Turnage answer if police should still respond to these types of calls.  We also get into social worker safety. White argues Antioch Police should hire its own mental health professionals. 50:00 – I go over the Timeline in which the Antioch City Council has worked on homeless issues. Soliz explains why the Planning Commission had issues with proposed homeless trailer sites.  In a year and a half, what has been accomplished and where is the community at? 1:06:15 – White asks why the citizens of Antioch can’t get to a place of stop debating where the homeless shelter should be located, ask why does it have to be in Antioch? What other city should take it? Turnage argues it should located on county property. 1:08:43 – Soliz give his thoughts on where we go from here on the July 28 council meeting. 1:10:39 – I ask White about economic development and where the city could be if they took all that time spent on homeless discussions and instead spent it on economic development and finding ways to help business. 1:15:10 – I ask Turnage about where the city could be if the council spent as much time on youth services/senior services as opposed to the time spent about the homeless. 1:18:50 – I ask Soliz what if the city council used their time to focus bringing the community together through celebrating culture versus talking about the homeless. 1:21:10 – Final thoughts

On this episode, I chat with political consultant Mary Jo Rossi of Rossi Communications ahead of the 2020 election as candidates begin to announce. She provides both some advice and we talk needing to raise the bar locally in Contra Costa with elected officials. Overview: 01:04 – Intro, who is Mary Jo Rossi? 03:03 – Rossi explains we need people who want to raise the bar and lead with high standards and courage. 03:55 – How will COVID-19 have on the November election and how will candidates be able to fund raise and get in front of people. 05:49 – COVID-19 has highlighted who leaders are versus those who are reactionary. Rossi argues we do not have creative individuals in government.  We need to begin attracting really smart, creative people to government and looking at the system of government. 09:15 – Rossi explains what she thinks of elected officials right now. 12:45 – For those considering running for public office in 2020, what do you focus on and what do you ignore right now? 16:14 – I suggest this fall, the focus should be on economic development to ensure businesses stay open. 22:00 – I argue how the public should demand the bar be raised by elected officials’ actions. We also get into how Facebook commentary is misleading. Rossi also gets into how young people need to vote. 24:30 – We look at the past election and how close they were. Upcoming elections with districts and how every vote will count in Antioch, Brentwood, Concord, Martinez, etc. 26:44 – Should we throw them all out of Sacramento? Rossi argues “who are we getting in return”? We need people who do not care if they get re-elected. Do the best job possible. We get into Senator Bill Dodd, Assemblymemebers Tim Grayson and Jim Frazier. 31:28 – With leadership, Contra Costa County does not have good benches for people to learn how to serve. How do we better prepare people to be elected officials with some experience? 35:20 – is Coffee with the Mayor or councilperson enough to get a real perspective of the community? She talks about the insiders (opinion leaders) and everybody else. Elected leaders need to understand the difference. She also says people who will speak their minds, like Ken Turnage II. 41:10 – Rossi brings up we are all just talking about racism right now, but what is actually happening and how does the conversation move forward. We get into how defund the police is a bad concept and slogan. These are conversations you have with the police department, not in attack mode which divides the community. She gets into local leaders who are dividing the community such as Lamar Thorpe and Karen Rarey.  I argue District Attorney Diana Becton is a divider because she is not leading on behalf of the county. 49:50 – We get into how Supervisor John Gioia is a reactionist with an opinion, but no one else is speaking up. Rossi credits Gioia for at least giving an opinion, most will not. 53:30 – The need to have a plan if you want to run or get reelected. We also need to recruit good people because we are losing good people who have done this for years.  Rossi argues we need smart people to run and win to buck the system. She highlights how 1/10 of what you do is at a city council meeting. 01:02:20 – I get into the need to raise the bar in the Nov. 2020 election with strong candidates. Rossi argues the bar can be raised, but the system doesn’t attract better people. We also get into the year Antioch has just spent talking about the homeless.  The county placing homeless services at Antioch/Pittsburg border, project is in purgatory. 1:07:25 – We get into inactivity in Concord with the Concord Naval Weapon Station land. 1:08:20 – Have a plan, principals, do not pander if you are considering running for office. Rossi says know why you are running.

On this episode, I chat with Ariel Ryan who spoke at the Brentwood City Council meeting sharing her experience of being an African American female growing up in Brentwood. We recap her public comments (17:34 min mark of council meeting), to should Juneteenth be a national holiday, to what systems need to change in the United States, and locally what needs to change to be a more inclusive society. Episode Recap: 01:12 – Bio about Ariel and she gets into why she spoke about her rough childhood in the City of Brentwood dealing with racism. 03:12 – Recap of what was said at the Brentwood City Council Meeting. She talks about being called the “N” word for the first time. 2nd grade, someone cut her hair at school. Being an African American in Brentwood schools—she talks about importance of hair in her culture. She gets into middle school and how it got rougher. 06:50 – She gets into attempted suicide from being bullied and isolated. She wanted to blend in and not be Black. 09:30 – in High School, she gets into speaking out against bullying she was threatened with her senior activities being taken away.  11:10 – if this is going on in a community like Brentwood, what is really going on that doesn’t get out? How do we start having this conversation so it stops.  She gets into the testimony she has been collecting and what is being said amongst race related conversations. Ariel suggests we are whitewashing history and providing a false narrative of American history. 13:50 – We get into Juneteenth Celebration 15:14 – I get into why I was frustrated with the protests in the beginning. 17:16 – how do we overcome racial bias in society. 18:13 – We go back into mental health and what helped Ariel. 21:35 – Ariel’s goal going forward 24:50 – How does bullying and racial relations overlap. Why is one the message while the other ignored? 26:27 – Brentwood City Council has been silent on the issue, what does that tell you? 29:22 – Ariel highlights how systems in the United States needs to change. 32:00 – If we are talking defund the police force because police are bad, how do we get the police force to look like the community they represent.  We also get into Richmond City Councilmember Jael Myrick youtube video on Defund the Police. 35:41 – How do people get in touch with Ariel to work on a plan to create action items. She is focused on the Brentwood Union School District, Liberty Union High School District.  She gets into history/social studies, the need to get more social on things. 38:34 – Ariel talks about her brothers experience right now going through the school system. She highlights when she graduated high school, she was broken. She doesn’t want another generation of kids being broken at graduation. 41:35 – Ariel is hoping the people of East Contra Costa can unify and come together for the youth, human beings to protest and come together for change. After the protest, where do we go from there? She again highlights the need for change at the Brentwood Union School District, Liberty Union High School District. 44:30 – I share my frustration with Brentwood elected officials. 46:45 – We get into how youth today, through this conversation, will realize they are not alone, there are many experiencing the same things.  Ariel highlights racism is so covert, people do not know they are doing it. 50:30 – We get into need to change culture for the better and reform has to be everywhere from the police, education, news and more. We need to focus on the context. 55:00 – Politicians will not make the easy decisions because of pandering for votes (on both sides). Change can happen if they really want to. Ariel asks about what I learned in history.   1:00:00 – What is next step? Should be bottom up, not top down movement. How can people get in touch with Ariel.

On this episode, I chat with Congressman Jerry McNerney after he attended a Juneteenth Celebration in the City of Antioch. We get into the tone in Washington DC, the national debate on police and racial bias. We talk COVID-19 and upcoming bills that are to be discussed and close by getting into technology, the environment and other topics.Episode Breakdown 00:35 – Intro 01:19 – McNerney on what the tone of Washington DC is with trying to change police regarding police policy such as chokeholds and bad actor police officers, setting standards and more. On being in California and trying to get the rest of the country to catch up on police policy. Balancing needs of different states versus state needs. 05:42 – We get into COVID-19 and impact its having including upcoming bills they are voting on such as the HEROS Act. From single payments to households of up to $6k to $600 per month for unemployment. McNerney highlights a lot of people are living paycheck to paycheck. 11:15: McNerney highlights that on Tuesday, they are having a hearing with Dr. Anthony Fauci. McNerney is one of two scientists in Congress and says that science needs a place at the table. 13:39 – McNerney shares we are already seeing the effects of climate change. 17:25 – McNerney says he believes Juneteenth should be a national holiday. 19:55 – Racial bias and how do we tackle that and make people more aware and become more inclusive of one another.  McNerney says we have to tackle public safety, not just police. Social training and de-escalation training for officers. Universal policy for bad officers while police unions should not eb standing by bad officers who commit criminal acts. 23:29 – We get into loyalty to the badge vs. loyalty to fellow officer. 25:52 – We jump into Artificial Intelligence and technology along with drones and where we are headed. We also need better privacy laws. McNerney also shares technology that is impressing him. 36:15 – McNerney talks about the work at home economy and cyber protection is needed. 39:04 – We get into climate change and where we are at with the Delta, improving California Water Storage. 40:40 – We get into local issues that McNerney is watching which includes the East Contra Costa Fire Protection District.  He also is watching the economy, broadband access, schools. 42:31 – McNerney shares an update on Mark DeSaulnier 43:10 – McNerney provides final thought on where we are headed. 46:45 – McNerney highlights how he would like to have corporate model change for social good and environmental good.

On this episode, Ken Turnage II and I sit down and provide our immediate reactions to the Antioch City Council vote Thursday night where they voted against creating an ad-hoc committee on police reform in a 3-2 vote. The council opted for a much larger discussion involving the community as Mayor Sean Wright called this "too big" for an ad-hoc committee.

In this episode, I chat with Walnut Creek City Councilmember Justin Wedel who provides a first hand take on the recent Walnut Creek Protests as he was documenting on Twitter what was going on. We get into the difference between peaceful protests versus looters. We talk about the Miles Hall Shooting, the Walnut Creek Police Department and impacts of COVID-19 on the Walnut Creek Budget. 01:13 – Quick bio of Wedel 03:15 – we get into the recent Walnut Creek protests. Wedel explains while most of them have been peaceful, he never thought he would see looting or see boards on windows of city buildings. But he does highlight the looting should not be associated with the peaceful protests. 06:57 – We get into the blocking of the Freeway by protesters. 10:00 – Wedel explains what it was like documenting all the protests on Twitter as well as the mixed response. Explains he wanted a first hand view and to better understand the protesters perspective which could result in policy changes. 12:32 – on what dialogue was like with some of the protesters. 13:38 – I get into the photos shown by Wedel versus TV media images being shown. 15:50 – Wedel explains how he believes the city responded to the protests. 17:09 – We get into the 8 Can’t Wait Campaign and Walnut Creek Police Response. 20:22 – We speak on the video release of the Miles Hall shooting in Walnut Creek. 25:28 – Wedel highlights what he would like to see moving forward in an overall conversation. 31:50 – why can’t we do micro climate discussions across Contra Costa County to make it a more regional approach on dialogue and community building to better understand one another. 8 Can’t Wait is only a start, much more discussion needs to occur. 43:00 – We get into the City of Walnut Creek budget and $12 million in the hole due to COVID-19. Cuts have to be made. 48:30 – Wedel talks about the Walnut Creek Rebound Program to provide social distancing approved restaurant based options to allow them to be on the street/sidewalk for service. 51:50 – when COVID-19 lifts, what is some of the first things Wedel will do. 54:50 – Final thoughts

On this episode, I chat with East Contra Costa Fire Protection District Fire Chief Brian Helmick who discusses his recent announcement that Starting July 1, the Fire District will only send firefighters inside a burning building if human life is at risk. This is due to severe under-funding, the District has been forced to take new, urgent measures to maintain its extremely limited operations and keep firefighters safe. Overview: 02:18 – Helmick provides an overview of the issue with finances the District is facing. He gets into how funding in 1970’s was fine, but nothing over the past few decades has been done to increase funding such as assessments or community service districts. Needs to work with existing residents to correct the error of the past. 06:04 – Helmick explains what Wednesdays announcement means to the general public in terms of cancelling public outreach and defensive fire attack on structure fires. 09:54 – ECCFPD has become a defensive fire attack district. Helmick explains scenarios and goes into depth on what could occur. 15:00 – In a hypothetical, if ECCFPD engines are on calls, is Contra Costa County Fire Engines of Antioch rolling into ECCFPD District? How is auto aid going to work? Impact being subsidized by CONFIRE and what it does to CONFIRE resources. 25:26 – How does rehab work after a fire or major incident? 26:29 – We get into Brentwood 9212 Report and how Brentwood accepted and filed it. Helmick explains his position on the ECV proposal. 30:13 – We get into why fire services cannot get turned on and off based on money coming in or out. We get into the flaw of the 9212 Report. Helmick explains three criteria’s when seeking funding. 34:19 – I get into why I do not agree with ECV Plan or where they are headed. 40:38 – How do we get from 3 stations to 6 stations and eventually get to 9 stations? Is the debate now asking residents for 2 or 3 stations? In November, that discussion will begin. Some people will never want a new tax. 49:35 – PTSD and suicide with firefighters and living with not being able to save people. 52:28 – Helmick speaks on educating and making people aware of the fire district issues.  We have 100 miles of waterways. District does not even have paramedics on rigs, trucks or boat. Explains the dire situation 57:52 – Final thoughts by Chief Helmick.

On this episode, I chat with Allie Sealey who is in town from Nashville as we shotgun approach this chat on a variety of topics from her new single coming out on June 30 to what its like playing music during COVID-19 and we get into a musicians work ethic. Intro 00:53 – Traveling with COVID-19 from Nashville to California 1:43 – New song “Wherever I go” comes out June 30. New album also is completed. 04:58 – Nashville Bars have reopened for music. Allie explains the vibe at the moment, she is playing at various venues. 07:19 – if visiting Nashville, where should people go? Explaining how Nashville attracts talent and everyone is there for the same goal. Allows for a lot of collaborations. 11:30 – Contra Costa County limited in terms of venues for large audiences 15:06 – why do people name drop all the time? We also get into awards/recognition being political and popularity contests. 18:15 – Sealey explains what a “live streaming” deal is. 19:50 – Explain the musician’s work ethic. Success is subjective and it comes down to work ethic. 26:30 – Does cost of living have something to do with where musicians live or where the venues are at? She gets into tips vs. donations. 30:45 – We get into the need for more music opportunity in Contra Costa County. We get into content creation. 39:20 – What is next for Allie? How to find Allie’s music.  For more on Allie Sealey, visit: https://alliesealey.com/

On this episode, I chat with Chad Davison, the General Manager for the Ironhouse Sanitary District who serves ratepayers in both the City of Oakley and Bethel Island.  We get into the proposed 9% rate increase (Prop 218) where Davison explains the purpose and the process. We get into bio solids on Jersey Island.   01:18 – Bio on Chad Davison 03:08 – Why Davison came to Ironhouse Sanitary District 06:49 – Prop 218 notice on rate increases and reasoning behind it. 10:32 – Davison explains the 9% rate increase. 12:50 – Davison clarifies the rate structure which is 9%, but further broke down rates by fair share. 17:20 – where does the Ironhouse Sanitary District service begin and end with a home. He also explains they have to have a legally defendable rate policy. 20:02 – June 16 Public Hearing, what is the publics role and process? 23:30 – Davison explains wipes down the toilet are a no-no and the impacts. 26:25 – Ironhouse is preparing for a major upgrade project in the older neighborhood of Oakley (downtown). 29:13 – Recycled water pump turns on soon. 32:04 – Davison explains the myths on these hookup fees for the District. 37:40 – ISD rates are hidden in property tax and people won’t see it unless they look at Tax Rate Area (TRA). Davison explains options board had for 19% increase for next 5-years vs. 25% increase. 41:04 – We get into “poop island” (bio-solids). Davison explains what it actually is and its benefits. 46:56 – What has been the impact COVID-19 has had on Ironhouse

On this episode,  I chat with City of Pittsburg Mayor Jelani Killings on the peaceful marches around East Contra Costa County and about their recent special city council meeting to engage in conversation to take what is happening around the country and implement changes.   Intro – we keep off the conversation as Jelani just arrived after attending two peaceful marches. 03:44 – We get into marches in East Contra Costa County, but TV media is showing people breaking things and causing havoc. We talk about peaceful protests   05:37 – We get into last weeks Pittsburg Special City Council Meeting with a lot to take away from mandatory curfew, local emergency, etc.   08:53 – Pittsburg Police found Molotov cocktails at Pittsburg Marina. 10:22 – We get into Pittsburg City Council Letter discussion. All the types of opinions from the Council being shared. Killings provides his thoughts. 15:25 – I get into how the Pittsburg City Council meeting made an impacted on me and how I will work on improving how I run ECT. Killings explains justice you want the right thing done. 20:10 – We talk about the Brentwood an Oakley protests along with what Pittsburg City Council discussion, its about education and sharing experiences. 22:40 – 1 in 3 African American Males goes to prison, where do the role models go? Where is the equity? Fatherlessness is a major issue explains Killings. 24:50 – Killings explains the Pittsburg City Council letter, want to continue a public discussion in the form of a forum or meeting. 30:55 – What happens when protest and marches stop, how do you take all that and turn it into action. 34:40 – How do we figure out what people want? Lots of defund the police conversation. 39:57 – Governor Gavin Newsom wants statewide standard on use of force. Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez talks about rubber bullets. Mike Gipson talks banning chokeholds. How do we get politicians from campaigning to governing.  At what point do we go to far where we start losing police officer lives? How do we get to a balance or better way? 48:35 – Killings on whether people would change perspectives if they went through a modified police academy or training just for experience? 50:20 – on how Pittsburg can be a model cancel for action and how Merl Craft explained any approach must be regional to East County due to geography we are all tied together. 54:20 – NFL comes out and says they were wrong on Colin Kaepernick. How Drew Brees fumbled his comments. 57:10 – How this podcast would love to have this conversation on how the system can be improved from different members of the community. 1:02:49 – We switch gears and go into impact of COVID-19 on City of Pittsburg and budget cuts which could reach as high as 15%. 1:07:45 – Where is Pittsburg at in terms of bringing a grocery store to the city? 1:09:15 – What is going on with all the reckless driving and speeding in Pittsburg.

In this episode, Oakley City Councilmember Sue Higgins talks about her dealings with Multiple Sclerosis and highlights World MS Day... we also talk about the City of Oakley and COVID-19 as she works in a hospital.    0:50 – Intro and World Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Day. We get into her dealing with an MS attack and what it does to someone. She talks about how she has been dealing with it since 2014. 05:45 – We talk about MS and National MS Society and how people can find folks locally to speak with and network. 07:19 – We get into City of Oakley… we chat about Skippolini’s coming to downtown.  We also get into business in the downtown such as the entrepreneur center. 12:02 – Higgins, who works in a hospital, she gets into the impact COVID-19. She was on the line to check for COVID-19 before employees entered the hospital. 17:45 – Covid-19 & City of Oakley response 22:53 – We get into the new Oakley Logistics Center on Bridgehead. 25:01 – Higgins provides an update on the park’s maintenance between Oakley & School District 25:57 – I ask what the deal is with this train station in downtown Oakley. 31:34 – Housing Development in Oakley, Developments keep coming in. 33:01 – We get into when Oakley Police may increase staffing. 35:15 – We get into the closing of the Oakley Chamber of Commerce and bring them back. How to get home based businesses to participate. 39:20 – I can’t even get on the city list for their annual survey. Attitude at City Hall needs to change and work on improving community communication. Higgins explain with social media, they can turn phones on, but people really do need to come to meetings and engage with the council and city hall.  We get into zoning and what Senator Wiener’s bill could do to property around BART. 45:55 – Oakley could be moving to District Elections 49:05 – I get into how Kevin Romick drives me nuts at times. 49:43 – We get into Higgins love of supporting local business – especially Lumpy’s Diner along with her love of bacon. We also get into La Gange, Brownstone Gardens, and Sabrina’s Pizza. 57:03 – Higgins highlights why she is a big supporter of Congressman Jerry McNerney.  We also get into Senator Steve Glazer, Assemblyman Jim Frazier and Supervisor Diane Burgis. We also talk Mark DeSaulnier. 1:07:30 – Higgins explains the glasses in photos.  

On this episode, I chat with Rebecca Barrett who is the President of the Contra Costa Community College District Board of Trustees. We ping-pong around a variety from what is currently going on in the District to her experience with Tom Torlakson and Mark DeSaulnier to K-12 Education. We jump into Contra Costa politics, District elections, the Boys and Girls Club, an update on the Brentwood Campus and more. 00:58 – Intro, Rebecca explains her experience in working for State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson. 03:08 – How does one prepare for a state opening in terms of schools with different areas having different rules. 05:13 – I ask if I have been too hard on State Superintendent Tony Thurmond, Rebecca explains the position and what they are doing from her perspective.  We will begin looking at cuts and how do we save jobs in education. 08:18 – Rebecca’s background as graduate from Diablo Valley College, UCLA and working for Tom Torlakson. Idea of Gold Ribbon Schools for Distance Learning? 10:21 – Why she wanted to be on the community college board? 12:10 – We get into the lack of “bench” in Contra Costa County where people are not involved enough to gain experience to serve local elected office. 14:49 – What issue for Contra Costa Community College District made her speak up – had to do with racist graffiti.  Creating policy and processes. 18:42 – What Rebecca learned from both Torlakson and Congressman Mark DeSaulnier in working for them and how it has helped her now. 23:28 – We get into the scenario at the California State Legislator that will be terming out in 2022-24 and a change in legislator. 25:38 – We get into Contra Costa Community College District and what they are up to with the shutdown, search for the ne Chancellor. We also get into their three online graduations.  We also get into what the Fall Semester may look like. 35:10 – What is new with the Brentwood Campus. 39:53 – We talk about Boys and Girls Club of Contra Costa which is her “day job” and the impact right now the shutdown is having on both fundraising and services.  Providing school supplies and COVID-19 response fund across the county.  44:29 – How do we get a Boys and Girls Club in Antioch or East Contra Costa County, especially considering Antioch approved Measure W funds for Youth Programs. 47:50 – Essential vs. non-essential business term… everyone is essential. How Gavin Newsom is doing everything possible to become unelected. 54:45 – We get into Contra Costa reopening and why none of it makes sense. 58:28 – We get into how Rebecca got rid of her English accent…. 1:03:34 – We chat about District Elections and the impact it will have around Contra Costa County.  Could we get the county to do video ballot statements? What election races is Rebecca going to be watching this fall?  She highlights how Antioch elections never play softball, its rough elections.  Impacts District elections could have on elected officials focus on districts vs. entire cities. We also get into City of Martinez and District Elections. 1:13:19 – Final thoughts on Community College District, the Chancellor search and when a hiring may occur and what the enrollment numbers look like.

On this episode, I chat with Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) Board of Director Debora Allen on a variety of topics from the budget, ridership, cleanliness, homeless, BART Police and enforcement of code of conduct, its new 15 Point Plan, to whether or not BART should get into the housing business. 01:25 – Intro 02:05 – Steps to make the trains safer and healthier during COVID-19. Question asked by Supervisor John Gioia. 04:37 – Rider health procedures during when ridership increases. 06:45 – BART Budget issues and impact it may have 08:15 – BART Police enforcing things such as masks, eating on platforms, sex on platforms (code of conduct issues) 09:37 – Recap the May 23 meeting on the budget and sustaining a 90% drop in ridership. Debora gets into how the budget was formulated. 13:42 – How do you save as many jobs as possible for BART? Current budget calls for no layoffs, no furloughs, and current budget calls for 2.75% raises. How does it work when State Employees are getting a 10% cut, but BART still receiving a COLA increase? 16:11: Elected officials are elected due to unions and special interest which prevent tough decisions to be made. The big picture is not being taken seriously as BART will have a 6% increase in operating costs with ridership being down 90%, 21:50 – we get into BART projects helping maintain and improve tracks as ridership is down to save money later with little impact on ridership. They can now work more than 3-4 hours of actual construction. 23:25 – BART issues a 15 Point Plan – we talk about it. 25:17 – We touch on fare evasion, community outreach and back to police enforcing people wearing masks. BART Police need 93 more officers in 2018. 31:30 – Debora explains her tweet about 20-unfilled BART Police positions will be replaced by civil ambassadors.   35:22 – Is there any plan to address the homeless using the train as a bathroom. Any plans to expand to East Bay (Question from The Happy Medic). We get into how BART is going to enforce masks and eating on trains, but not homeless sleeping on trains and using BART as a restroom. How BART directors were not happy with 15 Point Plan because BART is enforcing mask policy. To enforce the code of conduct or not? 41:20 – BART’s Disconnect between urban and suburban areas. Need to redistrict BART Trustee districts for more equity around the Bay Area. In Contra Costa County, we only have 2 BART Directors. 45:26 – is BART Board qualified to get into housing? (Question by Wolfgang Croskey). 47:22 – Does Allen believe the BART Board understands why people are not riding BART? 49:19 – closing

In this episode, I chat with Steve Aubert, Fire Marshal with the East Contra Costa Fire Protection District who talks about their new ECCFPD APP that launched in an effort to limit vegetation fire and encourages residents to abate their properties from weeds and other combustible material. Editors Note: interview was recorded on Friday, May 29, 2020. 01:10 – Intro 01:29 – Steve explains the purpose of the letter and what it means in terms of enforcement and timelines. 04:30 – We get into what the new ECCFPD app is and what it will accomplish. 06:04 – How much an abatement could cost if a property owner does not tend to their weeds and get the property into code. 06:45 – Steve highlights vegetation fires last year and the goal is to prevent that this year. 08:29 – We get into arson, a series of arrest so far in both CONFIRE & CALFIRE 09:58 – What are some of the basic item’s residents should be aware of with abatements in terms of what the fire district is looking at. Examples in the Knightsen vegetation Fire and the Bethel Island wind event. 13:00 – Minimum abatement standards available on ECCFPD Website. We get into fire breaks and the purpose and what they are. How many times should one do abatement on their property 18:20 – What else is the ECCFPD doing to prevent fires. 21:15 – ECCFPD APP is designed for vegetation abatement. Complaints are anonymous. 22:00 – Process for control burns. 23:52 – What is Steve’s best advice for fire prevention for the upcoming fire season.   Fire Codes: https://www.eccfpd.org/exterior-hazard-control-division#body_file-e11c7c73-7207-4d38-a810-abcd5d44f961

On this episode, I chat with former Editor at the Brentwood Press Rick Lemyre who is leaving Brentwood, CA for Georgia. Just a simple chat here on a variety of topics from the news industry, to the community, non-profits, change, elected officials, and more. Wanted to give Rick a chance to share his story with the community after all his years of telling other peoples story.   02:19 – Rick provides a quick bio on himself from locksmith to Newspaper Distribution to Journalism to launching the Brentwood Press. 06:25 – we chat about the biggest changes in the news industry and if you want to be rich, don’t go into news. 07:50 – Rick explains leaving the Press in 2013… we get into advice Rick provided to me which helped ECT grow over the years. 9:03 – What was the best thing about being in the news industry… we get into youth sports and school coverage. Print vs. online publications 14:50 – How do you pay people to produce the news? Its become tough. 15:55 – Rick explains why he got out of the news industry. He gets into his love of history. 18:20 – Rick explains how he got involved with the John Muir Historic Trust and highlights the challenges with connecting the trail and opening up the property to the public. It would be a 3,700 acre State Park. Working with East Bay Regional Park District to connect trail to Round Valley. 21:10 – Quick update on Friends of Marsh Creek Watershed and the Three Creeks Project in Brentwood 23:28 – What Rick will miss most about Contra Costa County. 25:00 – we get into more educating vs. reporting.. especially with East Contra Costa Fire issue. 27:20 – Moving… what weird things has Rick found living in his house for 27-years. How much has he actually given away 30:00 – Rick gets into how excited he is to get a fresh start. Both history and cost of living was motivating factors. Georgia is about 30% cost of living savings vs. California.   34:08 – We chat how news is 24/7 and decompression at some point is important… then move into potential for podcast to record history. Achieving peoples history. It also comes down to people wanting to be educated – such as ECCFPD. 41:30 – When Rick was starting, there was about 100,000 people in East Contra Costa County and the growth and changes occurring in the area. With Rick leaving, it’s the history and knowledge that is leaving the area. 47:26 – Have people come to East County to become part of the community or try and change it? We get into elected officials and some of the policies being put in place. We talk about public face of elected official vs. public face. 51:48 – What is Rick’s hope for East Contra Costa County after he leaves.

On this episode, I chat with newly hired Brentwood City Manager Tim Ogden where we get into a variety of topics from the impact of COVID-19 shutdown, budget cuts, police services economic development, fire service, homeless, oil drilling and a variety of other topics.   01:20 – Intro 02:55 – What drew Ogden to City of Brentwood? 04:40 – Addressing elephant in the room on what transpired in Manteca 08:01 – Ogden shares the biggest lesson he learned as City Manager 09:03 – We get into COVID-19 and forcing to shutdown City of Brentwood. 10:33 – We discuss $4 million in budget cuts for City of Brentwood and challenges. 13:25 – we go back to businesses being shutdown, how do we keep business alive in Brentwood within limits of Shelter-in-Place. Ogden states why he wouldn’t go rouge and go against County and State orders. 15:58 – We get into Brentwood City Council agenda and items placed on it regarding helping business by shutting down 2nd Street and Oak. We get into how we help all business. 20:43 – What is the strategy to bring new business to Brentwood? Where we headed with economic development? We get into office space and job centers. 26:18 – We get into East Contra Costa Fire, the City of Brentwood and its 9212 Report. Ogden confirms funds could even go to police services versus fire due to open ended proposal. 32:44 – We get into Brentwod Police and what they are up to. Burkholder makes the statement Brentwood police are “too nice”. 40:49 – We touch on homeless… Antioch is providing services and Pittsburg has a motel. 46:55 – Ogden provides an update on Deer Ridge and what is happening. 49:32 – Oil drilling in the hills of Brentwood on county property.

On this episode, with layoffs looming, I chat with Josh Isenbarger who is the president of the CSEA in Antioch for the Antioch Unified school District (Classified Employees). Due to budget cuts, they are anticipating layoffs all while leadership at the teachers union is requesting a 2% raise. Isenbarger highlights how they hope going forward teamwork can be the priority which would help save as many jobs as possible within the District. 01:42 – Who is the CSEA and what do they do? 02:26 – Governor Newsom’s May Revise with $7 billion in cuts, LCAP cuts. What does it look like to CSEA. 03:55 – Why should parents care about these cuts? Classified employees will be laid off. 05:16 – Food Services feeding students during SIP – demand more than doubled. If cuts occur, how are local community going to be fed?  At home learning, with distance learning, staff is needed. 07:38 – We talk about the teacher’s union leadership seeking a 2% raise which could cost classified jobs. 11:19 – How has COVID-19 changed job descriptions and effort just to clean a campus and then how going back to school may look like with extra cleaning? 14:18 – What is going on with bus drivers? What are they doing? 16:16 – CSEA has an open contract, not looking for a raise at this time, keep it the same in terms of pay. Concessions and what they get are still being negotiated. Working more to keep as many people as employed. 17:25 – A lot of CSEA live locally, if laid off, less money into the community. 19:37 – Friday, the plan for job cuts will come out. What does the future hold in terms of job loss? 21:16 – a 2% raise for teachers, its not that its not warranted, its just COVID-19 has changed the landscape and the MOU, a raise is not realistic. 22:21 – Where is the teamwork between AEA and CSEA? 25:00 – What is the goal once the budget recommendation comes out? 26:30 – Where is the superintendent and leadership in all of this? 28:15 – What about the school board? Where are they at?

On this episode, I chat with Trevor Frey, a loan officer, at Supreme Lending in Brentwood. We get into some industry news and talk about mortgage interest rates, getting a loan, and a variety of other topic around the mortgage lending process. 00:54 – Intro 02:30 – comparison from 2008 to present, what is the difference? 04:49 – Is forbearance friend or foe? 07:38 – What is the biggest thing going on in the lending market? Any standards? 09:30 – How has COVID-19 changed the industry, specifically Chase and banks have made it tougher to get a loan.  When could it get loosened up? 12:07 – Explain negative interest rates and impact on mortgages. Get into cash is trash argument. 14:45 – Mortgage refinancing applications at a 17-year high. 16:23 - Fannie Mae interest rate forecast…. Will we see 2.99% interest rates again or lower? 21:00 – What is going on with home equity lending? 23:50 – Advice for someone looking to get a loan or refinance? 28:41 – How you can get in touch with Trevor Frey at Supreme Lending.  

On this episode, I chat with Jennifer Fink of Fading Memories, an Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support show, where we talk about dealing with Alzheimer’s during COVID-19 and how to navigate these times. She reminds people its important to build a team you can rely on, find a way to get a break and importance of keeping as much routine as possible for your loved ones. She also recommends a crisis plan be created while also finding support online. 00:23 – Introduction 02:14 – Fink highlights in her support group some of the struggles they are seeing with their loved ones. 04:14 – we get into how important taking a break and getting a break is right now. 06:20 – What are some of the best solutions with needing a break and caring for people. No longer have built in breaks with caregivers available. Importance of decompressing 08:37 – Fink provides tips on how to build a team to help. 11:45 – What is going on with Assisting Living Communities. 15:56 – How challenging is quarantine for seniors because of the impact on routine? 20:43 – We dig a little deeper into importance of routine. 29:31 – Importance of online communities 34:20 – Importance of a crisis plan 42:45 – Is there a lot of second guessing going on? 45:56 – Fink plugs her show and how people can find it.

On this episode, I chat with Seana Fippin who was one of the creators of Brentwood Strong serving the residents of Brentwood with food delivery and assisting seniors. Fippin is also on the City of Brentwood Planning Commission, President Elect for the Brentwood Rotary Club and an owner of Red Box Business Solutions.   00:32 – Intro 01:25 – what is Brentwood Strong? 03:10 – What was the need in the Brentwood Community? Building Community Volunteers 05:50 – Fippin goes over some of the trial and error in the beginning. 08:05 – What was the vetting process for volunteers to ensure safety. 10:15 – Brentwood Strong is now an approved non-profit from the State. 11:28 – We get into the City of Brentwood providing $50k in funding for food services. 15:21 – On working with Meals on Wheels and Contra Costa Food Bank. Pairing volunteers with seniors. 17:30 – Possible expansion into Antioch and other cities. 19:00 – If we come out of COVID-19, seniors are still going to need help for a while. Goal is to support community for the long-term. 22:20 – Fippin explains the biggest challenge in setting up Brentwood Strong. 24:50 – People asked about wine and beer pickup and delivery. Someone asked for them to teach them how to ride a bike again.  We get to local wine and beer. 27:00 – Fippin shares her biggest surprise with Brentwood Strong. 30:20 – We get into human connections and how important it is during COVID-19 and keeping people well in terms of mental health. 32:40 – on Brentwood Strong raising awareness on the need for food service programs and assistance.  Fippin provides some advice in how to start something similar in their community. 35:20 – How can people contribute or help the cause? They also have another food distribution within the next few weeks. 39:11 – Fippin highlights of Brentwood Community Chest was a huge inspiration for Brentwood Strong while Shirasoni in Brentwood is contributing meals to seniors. For information on Brentwood Strong, visit: www.brentwoodstrong.com

On this episode, I chat with Tirrell Muhammad of the Antioch Rotary Club traveled to Africa and was forced to come back early due to the travel ban. He explains the work he was doing for the Rotary International with the International Vision of Volunteers and what Africa was like. He then gets into having to rush back and going through a 14-day quarantine.   00:30 – Intro 01:26 – Tirrell discusses going to Africa as a Rotarian for International Vision of volunteers to provide optical lens and surgery in Zambia.  He also gets into some of the things he saw. 07:17 – Tirrell explains traveling when there was a possible travel ban coming and what was going through his head. It was not until he was in London when the ban was a possibility. By the time he was in Johannesburg still no official ban. 09:50 – Within a few days of arriving in Africa, the ban was coming. Some of the work they had planned, got crammed into 3-days. 12:09 – Tirrell explains the type of work that was being done to help people improve their vision. 14:37 – What city in Contra Costa would be closest to the town he stayed in Africa. Tirrell explains the town he was at. Talks about the market, food, and importance of branches. He also shares how most of the homes were only 400 sq feet. He also gets into visiting the “hood or ghetto”. 20:47 – Tirrell gets into what he took away from the situation and living life to the fullest. 25:00 – IVV also helped set up a library.  This is the only library within a 1-2 hour area. 27:29 – What is going through his head when the travel ban order comes in. If they didn’t leave, they could potentially still be in Africa. 30:20 – How military was used as a fear factor to keep the peace. Explained how it appeared there was no best practices being used. 32:19 – Upon landing in SF, Tirrell explains what transpired within the airport and the 14-day quarantine order he was given. 40:00 – Reality set in once he returned home and seeing people flocking to the stores for TP and towels and essential items.  Great appreciation for people of Zimba and Zambia. Talks about how the Rotary foundation has been set up to do things locally and internationally. 49:00 – Tirrell plugs Rotary and how people can get involved or try it out.

On this episode, I chat with Dana Eaton, Superintendent of the Brentwood Union School District who walks us through what has been going on in the District since the Shelter-in-Place began. We get into variety of topics from parents trying to teach, distance education, learning loss, the digital divide and what school could look like next year.  Episode Overview: 01:24 – We talk back over the past 6-weeks since starting in March, what is going through Dana Eaton’s head during Spring Break when this all breaks out. How it progressed so fast and trying to inform the community of the unknown based on information at the time. 04:00 – Eaton talks coordination during this challenging time. 04:57 – We talk about parents trying to parent and teach.  How teachers can keep a student’s attention but parents can’t keep the attention. 07:17 – Advice to parents right now who may think they are not doing a “good job” during Distance Education. 08:42 – Why reading Harry Potter on video? Eaton explains the backstory. 10:35 – Importance in preventing “learning loss” 15:02 – We talk about unsung heroes in this from IT people and lunch folks.  We talk about food services and providing food to students—97,000 meals provided to students. 18:20 – What is Brentwood doing to help reduce the Digital Divide and number of laptops given out. Eaton says 30% of students who are living below the poverty level. So far, 2,000 chrome books have been handed out. 23:35 – How is the District helping teachers through this transition? Plus, the dynamic of teachers and trying to get their own kids through Distance Education. Perhaps the term “glorified babysitter” will now go away.  We also talk briefly about how teacher negotiations are going and possible impacts of State Budget. 31:36 – we discuss mental health right now of youth and providing emotional support. 36:00 – How did the partnering with other school districts come about with the joint statement? 39:30 – What is the school year going to look like next fall? 45:17 – Eaton says registration is now open and will be launching online registration soon. 46:39 – Final thoughts

On this episode, I chat with local business owner Ken Turnage II who is working to form a Business Alliance group to advocate for better treatment of businesses, advocate for better policy and work on solutions that benefit economic development across Contra Costa County.  We also touch on a variety of other issues facing the City of Antioch, its budget, and the impacts of COVID-19 on his business. 00:40 – Introduction 01:27 – Turnage explains what is going on around his business on E 18th Street in Antioch. What he is seeing has led to the idea of working to create a Contra Costa Business Association after dealing with blight, burglary, homeless, arson, etc. 06:40 – Turnage explains he is paying $1,500 per month due to loss, illegal dumping, graffiti, burglary. 08:45 – how the Business Association will focus on the City of Antioch and work its way out to other cities in the County. The group is planning to identify how businesses are suffering and offer solutions based on policy issued by City, County and State regulations. 11:00 – Business are forced to pay for security, impact on police force—we get into Antioch Measure W and how some of the funding went to areas that do not generate revenue. Turnage notes the priority should be on how do we make it better for everyone who is here first, which items helps everybody in the city because everybody is paying into it. 13:33 – Code enforcement need and tackling “slum lords” with shopping centers. 15:20 – Turnage highlights vision of Business Association 18:50 – We jump into current events and what is essential business vs. non-essential since he is in construction where some construction is allowed, and others are not. Get into liability of working during COVID-19 and dealing with all the ordinances—its random and not enforced equally. 23:18 – With Turnage being on Antioch Planning Commission and lack of sales tax, what does he see happening with City Council punting decision on citywide cuts do to projected loss on sales tax due to COVID-19. 28:47 – Economy and bank loans plus unemployment discussion 31:20 – We get into Antioch water cooler chat from a business perspective. We chat on if too much focus has been put into the Antioch Downtown and the city has become split into different sections. We chat about Antioch priorities being reactive. 39:10 – Turnage highlights the right data is not being collected to help economic development for future planning. The Business Alliance is to take frustration and do something about it because ranting on social media does nothing. 46:40 – What does the future hold for Turnage being on E 18th and fallout from COVID-19. A lot of businesses are just not going to make it. 51:15 – For those interested in the Business Alliance, k2gc@comcast.net is Turnage direct email.

On this episode, I chat with East Contra Costa Fire Protection District Battalion Chief Ross Macumber about the fire districts responding during COVID-19. We talk about a variety of things around what is being done in connection with the virus. We also get into how there are fewer car crashes, but they are larger incidents. We then chat about the District as a whole, such as retirements, new hires, number of stations, and work being done to be sustainable. Lots of good info in this episode that ran a little over an hour, 01:08 – Intro of Ross Macumber 02: 20 – What is it like Day 1 as a firefighter. Biggest fears and biggest screw up first few days in the profession. Talk about firefighting being a lifelong craft and always strive to learn. 07:30 – Update on ECCFPD and response to COVID-19. 09:00 – What is it like when you see other District firefighters and police officers come down with COVID-19 or those first responders pass away. Explains how fire industry does not like to be reactive, they want to be proactive. 14:00 – What is the typical process on a COVID-19 call/response 17:10 – Is the COVID-19 response adding time to call response? 19:17 – What is the relationship like working with local law enforcement and AMR right now with social distancing? 22:50 – Is the Fire Department tracking COVID-19 houses? Keeping uniforms/clothing clean after a call, 28:25 – People released out of jail and homeless encampments, theory on how COVID-19 could stay in the area and impact it could have in the fall. Exposure to both first responders and citizens. 32:45 – What can the public do to help ECCFPD during COVID-19. Potential of mental health issues at the end of this. 37:28 – Car accidents, fewer cars on the road and fewer crashes, but accidents are bigger.  Contra Costa Fire had an engine struck. 40:36 – We get into recent ECCFPD retirements and new hires. 46:27 – At one point, ECCFPD did not have enough qualified people who could promote up to drive fire engines. We get into salary issues in the past, unsure of layoffs and job security. Personnel became a training ground for another district to hire from. 49:34 – how Fire Chief Brian Helmick and East Contra Costa Fire Protection District worked the past several years to make major changes to the district to make it a competitive district and backend changes.  Could the District ever go down to 2 stations?  Macumber assures the community the District is on stable ground for 3-stations over the next decade. 56:14 – Macumber explains what is going on with the next 3 fire stations. We also get into need for more stations. He gets into the wind event last October on Bethel island which created 3 separate fires for a complex between Bethel Island and City of Oakley and shutdown both Bethel Island Road and E Cypress Road near Summerlake. Plus, other events that occurred that weekend. We proved we need 6-engines that day. Explains how fire districts are not supposed to rely on their neighbor district everyday to cover calls. 1:05:30 – End on positive, what is the outlook of the fire district right now. What does Macumber see?