This Contra Costa County department really measures up for consumers
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CA (Apr. 2, 2025) — Every time you visit the grocery store, you’ve likely noticed that the prices of everyday items – like eggs, produce and poultry – seem to keep climbing.
As inflation affects our wallets, getting the most value for our hard-earned dollars is more important than ever. When you buy apples and the checker weighs them, you probably don’t think twice about whether the scale is accurate. Thankfully, there’s a county agency that’s got our back: the Contra Costa County Department of Agriculture/Weights and Measures.
The department is dedicated to protecting the economic well-being of the community by ensuring the accuracy of weighing and measuring instruments, product standards and business practices used in commerce. They aim to foster equity in the marketplace and create a level playing field for businesses.
To achieve this, the department runs several key programs:
Device Program. This ensures that commercial weighing and measuring devices are properly calibrated. This includes not just grocery store scales but also gasoline pumps, wire meters and more. When a device is accurate, a seal is placed in a visible location – ensuring consumers won’t be overcharged. All devices, along with their locations, are registered with the department, making it easy to track their performance and maintenance.
Registered Service Agency (RSA). If a device fails inspection, it is taken out of service until repaired. All agents who perform repairs are licensed and registered with the department’s RSA, which verifies repairs are done properly. The RSA helps maintain the accuracy and reliability of these devices before they can be returned to service.
Quantity Control Program. This crucial component ensures that consumers pay for exactly what they’re getting. This program works to maintain price accuracy, protecting both consumers and businesses. For example, customers can be confident they’re not paying extra for ice when purchasing seafood, and they can trust that the net content listed on a product is correct. This program helps avoid issues like overcharging or undercharging, which benefits both buyers and sellers by ensuring a fair transaction every time.
These are just a few of the many ways the county Department of Agriculture/Weights and Measures impacts our daily lives. Beyond pricing accuracy, the department also protects us from invasive insects, regulates petroleum products, ensures proper labeling at farmers markets and so much more.
To learn about this small but essential department and how it works to keep things fair, visit www.contracosta.ca.gov/1542/Agriculture-Weights-Measures.
Ken Carlson is Contra Costa County District IV supervisor. Email questions or comments to SupervisorCarlson@bos.cccounty.us or call his office at 925-655-2350.