|
|
Dear Friends,
Last week my supervisor colleagues and I were compelled to call a special meeting and place a sales tax measure on this November’s ballot, fueled by the County’s deepening concern over the projected fiscal impacts of sweeping federal legislation passed last month, known as H.R. 1.
At the press conference we held, I spoke about the real impact this would have on families, making it harder to access health care and nutritious food.
I stated, “We are committed to protecting the health care and all services that we provide. This tax is not ideal, but as we move forward, we must share with our community all the internal measures we are taking — such as improving our reserve policy — so that we are in better fiscal health to absorb federal and state changes and become more self-sufficient.” |
|
|
Setting aside funds in reserve for unforeseen developments -- and doing so by policy will help ensure we are better prepared for future challenges. Our County must take proactive steps to avoid being in a difficult position again. That’s why open dialogue with our community is so important. You are invited to a community meeting on Saturday, August 16 from 10AM to 1PM at the County of Santa Clara Government Center, located at 70 West Hedding Street, San José. You will hear directly from federal, state, and county leaders about the projected $1 billion loss in federal funding to Santa Clara County under H.R. 1. This is an opportunity to learn how these changes could affect local services and your neighborhood, ask questions, and share your concerns. |
|
|
|
Language access services, American Sign Language interpretation, and a virtual attendance option will be available. Please RSVP here.
As we continue these critical conversations at the community level, our work at the Board table remains just as focused and urgent.
This Tuesday, August 12, marked our first regularly scheduled Board of Supervisors meeting since the summer recess. We reviewed key reports and initiatives, including child welfare reform, fire service in South County, and updates on the Hub and Parkmoor Community Apartments in San José—a housing development supporting young adults transitioning out of foster care. The Board also appointed Greg Monteverde, currently serving as Assistant Assessor, to the role of interim County Assessor in anticipation of an upcoming election for the position. As always, I remain committed to ensuring that public funds are allocated responsibly, with a focus on reducing excessive spending while safeguarding the essential services that help our residents thrive.
Whether I’m at the dais or in my office I’m advocating for the residents of District Five. That means making a strong case not only for a larger and healthier fiscal reserve, but also for the services you receive, your quality of life, access to medical facilities, equity, and safety. How you see and feel the results of County decisions is the number one thing on my mind and the outcome I aim to deliver.
Thank you for reading my newsletter and tuning into Board meetings to stay informed about what’s happening at the county level. These decisions directly affect you and the people you know, and your engagement helps shape a stronger, more responsive government.
With commitment and care, |
|
%20(1).png)
|
|
Stay Informed: Your Guide to Supervisors’
|
|
This section of my newsletter will feature key Board of Supervisors meeting dates to keep you informed about decisions that shape our community.
Below are the upcoming August and September meetings that you can join in person at the Board of Supervisors Chambers at 70 W. Hedding Street, San Jose, CA 95110, or virtually.
As always, please email or call our office with any questions at 408-299-5050. |
How to Participate in Board Meetings |
|
Residents are encouraged to get involved in the decision-making process in the following ways:
|
|
|
Now Posted:
|
|
The full recording of the July 31 Townhall on the Lehigh/Heidelberg Cement Plant and Quarry is now available to watch. You’ll learn about the current operations taking place at the quarry from Heidelberg Materials representatives, how they plan to restore Permanente Creek, and how the County will evaluate the company’s Reclamation Amendment application, which outlines how it will restore the site. |
|
|
All answers to questions that were addressed at the meeting and questions that residents posed via 3x5 cards or online but were not answered due to time constrictions will be posted to the county’s Department of Planning webpage in the near future. I will include that document in this newsletter when it is available. |
Let’s Hit the Trail: “Backpack with MAK” |
|
.png)
|
Ready for fresh air, good company, and a scenic workout? Join me for our next “Backpack with MAK” hike at the Rancho San Vicente, a new addition to Calero County Park, on Saturday, August 30 - a great way to connect outdoors and explore one of our local beautiful trails.
This easy-to-moderate 2-mile hike with about 200 feet of elevation gain features beautiful golden hilltops and majestic oak trees. There will be periodic stops along the way to highlight interesting features. Only 25 spots are available, so be sure to RSVP!
Parking is free. Be sure to wear comfortable hiking or athletic shoes and bring water. There’s not much shade, so you may want a hat or visor. |
MAK at Markets |
|
In last week's newsletter, I mentioned farmers markets in District Five that my team and I would be visiting to chat with you. Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances, the D5 team will not be attending this Sunday's farmers market, 08/17, hosted at De Anza Community College. Please stay tuned for farmers dates and locations we will attend in an upcoming newsletter. |
Amplify Your Impact:
|
|
Supervisor Otto Lee and I are proud to support the LGBTQ+ Public Leadership Summit: a free, one-day event hosted by the LGBTQ+ Victory Institute to uplift queer voices in public life and advance equity in our region.
Join us on Saturday, August 16, from 10AM to 5:30PM in Santa Clara County for a day of leadership, connection, and action. The summit features collaborative workshops, insights on running for office and serving in government, and conversations about the next chapter of LGBTQ+ representation in Santa Clara County. Attendees will connect with local leaders, elected officials, and movement partners working toward meaningful change. This summit is open to everyone interested in being a leader.
Registering ahead of time is strongly advised. |
|
Connect with County Supervisor Betty Duong and Me
|
|
|
Nonprofit leaders are invited to a special morning of conversation with Santa Clara County Supervisors Betty Duong and me on Tuesday, August 19, 10:30AM to 12:30PM at the Second Harvest Food Bank in San Jose. This is an opportunity to share your insights, hear about the Supervisors’ priorities, and discuss ways to strengthen community partnerships.
Register here. Location details to follow. |
Saratoga Residents: Help Shape
|
|
|
Nearly half of Saratoga’s western hillsides fall within the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI)—the zone most vulnerable to wildfires. Updates to the WUI Map are on the horizon, and your voice matters.
Thursday, Aug. 21 | 6 to 8 PM Saratoga Fire Station Community Room, 14380 Saratoga Ave
Join the City of Saratoga to learn about proposed changes, ask questions, and share your feedback. Explore the map and submit comments online: saratoga.ca.us/WUI |
Pedal Smart: Bike Safety Workshop Aug. 23
|
|
|
Is your adolescent ready to roll safely into the school year? Join Silicon Valley Youth Climate Action (SVYCA) for a free, hands-on bike safety workshop designed to teach essential skills in a fun and engaging way.
This event will be hosted in the Sequoia Room of the Los Altos Community Center on Saturday, August 23 from 9:45AM to 11:15AM.
Kids will learn bike safety through a lively game show created by Safe Routes to School Los Altos. Helmets are encouraged and don’t miss the Blender Bike Challenge! How does that work? Kids answer safety questions while pedaling a bike that powers a blender. Pass the test, earn a smoothie! |
|
Spots are limited—register here to secure your seat! |
Los Gatos, Become Firewise: Protect Your Home, Empower Your Neighborhood – Aug. 26 |
|
|
Wildfire preparation starts with you. The Town of Los Gatos invites you to discover how your neighborhood can become a certified Firewise USA Community, reducing wildfire risk and boosting safety for everyone.
By becoming Firewise, your neighborhood will:
The meeting will be held on Tuesday, August 26 at 7PM at the El Camino Health Conference Center, located at 815 Pollard Road, Los Gatos. A remote attendance option will also be available. Each session runs about 90 minutes. Learn more and register at LosGatosCA.gov/WildfirePrep |
Women's Equality Day on Friday, August 22 |
|
|
Each year, the Santa Clara County Commission on the Status of Women commemorates the passage of the Nineteenth Amendment, a historic milestone that secured women’s right to vote in 1920. In 2025, the Commission on the Status of Women is marking this day with a renewed lens: one that centers not just progress, but the shared power and collective care required to advance equity for all.
This year’s celebration will take place on Friday, August 22, 2025, at the Mexican Heritage Plaza. In the spirit of accessibility and inclusion, this event will be free to all attendees but registration is required. Reserve your spot today and get ready for a day filled with good food, networking, and fun. |
Help Strengthen Local Transportation Accountability |
|
VTA is now recruiting for the 2016 Measure B Citizens' Oversight Committee (MBCOC). This volunteer committee plays a vital role in making sure transportation funds from the 2016 Measure B ballot initiative are spent responsibly and transparently. Members bring community voices into the oversight process, ensuring investments align with what voters approved.
|
Donate to Hidden Treasures and Support the Cupertino Senior Center |
|
The Cupertino Senior Center is now accepting donations of gently used or new items for its annual Hidden Treasures fundraising event. Contributions may include jewelry, artwork, kitchenware, home decor, knickknacks, and other quality goods.
A full list of accepted items is available here. Donations can be dropped off at the Cupertino Senior Center, located at 21251 Stevens Creek Boulevard, Cupertino, Monday through Friday between 8AM and 5PM, through Friday, October 10.
This year’s Hidden Treasures event will be held on Thursday, October 23. For event details and donation guidelines, please visit this link. |
|
|
Office of Supervisor Margaret Abe-Koga 70 W. Hedding Street (408) 299-5050 |
|
|
Unsubscribe from future updates |