2024 Accomplishments
Overview
The 2024 legislation passed by D5 centers on public health, civic engagement, and environmental sustainability. Declaring loneliness as a public health crisis reflects a forward-thinking approach to mental health, while resolutions supporting digital access for the elderly and expanding outreach to unhoused voters showcase a focus on inclusion and equity. Civic participation is encouraged through initiatives like "Let San Mateo County Vote Week" and reaffirming the rights of voters with disabilities. Environmental priorities are clear with the endorsement of Proposition 4 and setting a county-wide biodiversity vision, underscoring a commitment to climate resilience. D5 also addressed the growing influence of technology, urging social media platforms to curb harmful content and advocating for transparency in autonomous vehicle deployment. Social justice remains a key theme, with resolutions condemning antisemitism and supporting peer work in the community.
2023 Accomplishments
Overview
In 2023, D5 passed a series of resolutions and ordinances that emphasize inclusivity, equity and social justice. Key themes include gender equity and language inclusivity, as shown by the promotion of gender-neutral language in official county documentation and the provision of free menstruation products in county buildings. D5 also prioritized accessibility for people with disabilities, recognizing essential workers who are visually impaired and declaring itself an "Autism-Friendly" community. Equity initiatives extended to public transportation, religious accommodation in the workforce, and language access planning. D5 also took a stance on broader social issues, supporting gun safety through a proposed 28th Amendment and condemning voter suppression laws. Additionally, paid leave for crime victims and protections for immigrants reflect the D5’s commitment to safeguarding vulnerable populations.
2022 Accomplishments
Overview
The 2022 legislation passed by D5 reflects a strong focus on community support, cultural recognition, and health advocacy. The year’s resolutions and proclamations highlight D5’s dedication to promoting awareness and inclusion of diverse populations. Several proclamations recognize cultural and heritage months, such as Korean American Day, Jewish American Heritage Month, and Filipino American History Month, underscoring the county’s commitment to celebrating its multicultural communities. Health and safety concerns were also prioritized, with proclamations on cancer prevention, stalking awareness, teen dating violence, and autism awareness, as well as a resolution to reopen a local therapy pool for community health benefits. The support for Ukraine amidst global conflict and backing of Senate Bill 893 to enhance support for community college students demonstrate advocacy beyond local concerns. Additionally, social justice was addressed through Human Trafficking Awareness Month and Immigrant Heritage Month, while supporting small businesses with a proclamation for Small Business Saturday.
2021 Accomplishments
Overview
The 2021 legislation passed by D5 highlights a commitment to public safety, social justice, economic recovery and health equity, reflecting the diverse needs of the community. Notably, several resolutions target racial and social equity, such as condemning hate crimes against Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, supporting reproductive freedom, and affirming the rights of Muslims. Economic resilience is a key theme, with multiple resolutions directing American Rescue Plan Act funds toward small business recovery programs, particularly aiding those hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic. D5 also focused on vulnerable populations through measures supporting older adults’ nutritional needs, addressing health misinformation, and promoting inclusion for the disabled community. The advancement of racial equity and efforts to reduce homelessness were also significant, along with honoring the sacrifices of frontline workers.
2020 Accomplishments
Overview
The legislation enacted by the D5 in 2020 reflects a comprehensive focus on public welfare, with key themes centered on public health, housing, social justice, and environmental sustainability. Several resolutions address the urgent challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, such as promoting telecommuting, supporting rent relief for elderly residents, and enforcing health and safety regulations, demonstrating a commitment to both community health and economic stability. Resolutions related to the Census emphasize the importance of inclusivity, pushing for accurate counts that reflect diverse language groups and underscoring the critical role of fair representation in resource allocation. Additionally, the Office tackled issues of racial equity by denouncing xenophobia and declaring racism a public health crisis, while also focusing on elder care, housing security, and domestic violence as essential to the well-being of vulnerable populations.
2019 Accomplishments
Overview
In 2019, D5 prioritized community health, safety, education, and cultural inclusion through key legislative and Measure K funding initiatives. Support for public health and safety was emphasized in policies mandating safe firearm storage, prohibiting unruly gatherings with minors, and banning the sale of e-cigarettes, along with measures to address gun violence and language accessibility in emergency planning. Housing and economic equity were promoted by supporting affordable housing legislation. Measure K funds enabled a wide array of community enhancements, including senior transportation, child wellness programs, and extensive educational and youth development projects, such as improvements to Gellert Park and support for low-income students. Acknowledging cultural diversity, D5 honored events like Día de los Muertos, Filipino American History Month, and the anniversary of African American slavery in the U.S.
2018 Accomplishments
Overview
In 2018, D5 prioritized environmental sustainability, public health, and social equity in its legislative efforts. D5 supported statewide environmental initiatives by endorsing bans on offshore drilling and promoting clean air through the “Diesel Free by ’33” challenge. Public health and safety were bolstered by measures to retain emergency healthcare at Seton Medical Center, establish lactation rooms in new County buildings, and enforce flavored tobacco bans. Social equity and inclusivity were addressed through support for the Digital Inclusion Effort, juvenile fee forgiveness, and funding for programs aiding low-income and minority communities. Additionally, Measure K grants funded diverse community focused projects, including scholarships, emergency equipment for fire services, youth trauma support, and cultural and educational initiatives.
2017 Accomplishments
Overview
In 2017, D5 emphasized themes of community equity, public health, and safety in its legislative actions. D5 worked to promote inclusivity through the development of a Language Access Policy, supporting better communication and access for non-English-speaking residents. It also demonstrated a commitment to public safety by urging both state and federal actions—ranging from local control over traffic safety related to cell phone use in crosswalks to international restrictions on fully autonomous weapons. Through Measure K, D5 funded several community-focused initiatives, including a gun buyback program, support for cultural events like Dia de los Muertos, enhancements to recreational spaces, and events promoting health and wellness. Social welfare was highlighted in proclamations for Older Americans Month, elder abuse awareness, and community recognition, while public health efforts included raising awareness for prostate cancer and supporting age-friendly community planning.