From the Desk of Karen Mitchoff

After 40 years, Mitchoff reviews county’s successes

From the Desk of Karen MitchoffCONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CA (Dec. 7, 2022) — When I started working for Contra Costa County in 1981, the county’s population was only 657,000, the BART line terminated at the Concord station, I used a typewriter and when we got computers, I used disks that were floppy. A lot has changed over my 40-year career.

I am grateful for the opportunities that I have had while working in multiple county departments and now serving three terms on the Board of Supervisors. As supervisor, I have been able to work on numerous projects in the areas of water advocacy, improved transportation and economic development. I have been honored to serve as one of our county’s representatives on the Delta Counties Coalition, where we have continued to preserve the critical ecosystem in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta.

On the Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA), I have worked toward improving the daily commutes of our residents. Projects like additional lanes on Highway 4, completion of the Caldecott Tunnel’s fourth bore and improving the Highway 4/Interstate-680 interchange each have had a direct impact on our community. GoMentum Station, located on the former Concord Naval Weapons Station, has brought several companies to our region for autonomous vehicle testing. CCTA will continue its mission to reduce emissions, improve mobility and implement innovative transit programs with the support of the county.

Buchanan Field Airport is one of two airports in Contra Costa County. I am proud that JetSuiteX offers commercial flights out of Concord, and the growing drone industry also found a home here with offices at Buchanan Field and testing at both airports. Now, with federal funding, this airport will see a new terminal and flight tower. I have always strived to maximize the offerings at Buchanan Field Airport while mitigating its impact on its surrounding communities.

Better quality of life

Collaboration has been a critical part of my work for a better quality of life for residents. The city of Pleasant Hill recently opened its new library building, and the county’s role in that partnership was pivotal for the project to be completed.

The passage of Measure X has enabled the county to fund new initiatives and expand services. We created Contra Costa Health Service’s A3 (Anyone, Anytime, Anywhere) program in collaboration with nonprofits, community members, police departments and cities. This initiative creates mobile crisis teams who will respond to individuals experiencing mental health crises.

I look forward to seeing how these collaborations benefit our community in the years to come.

I deeply appreciate and have the utmost respect for my colleagues on the Board of Supervisors. We may respectfully disagree on things, but I know this comes from our strong sense of duty to our districts. I am proud of what we have accomplished together and am honored to have learned from those who came before me and now, to contribute to the rich history of Contra Costa County.

It has been an honor and a privilege to serve the residents of District 4. In retirement, I look forward to continuing my commitment to a progressive vision and a better future for our community. Thank you.

Please feel free to call my office with any questions at 925-655-2350 or email supervisormitchoff@bos.cccounty.us.

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