Dear Friends:

Welcome to my website! I hope that this two-way communication medium is helpful in serving you as a Contra Costa County Supervisor. This site is intended to be a way for you to share your thoughts directly with me. I urge your feedback and comments on matters of concern to you and welcome hearing from you. It has always been my belief that I can serve you better if I know of your opinions and concerns and I value what you have to say.

Supervisors make decisions on many subjects – from the management of social programs to service decisions. We also make land use and environmental decisions that affect the quality of life of all Contra Costans. Each Supervisor also has areas of particular interest, and that certainly is the case for me. I have always focused on what I believe are the "basics" of government: responsible finances, transportation and public safety.

My focus on these three areas is based upon the fact that they are collective needs – things which people cannot provide for themselves. People rely on government as a provider of transportation infrastructure and service throughout the county. People count on government to deliver effective police and fire services. In order to provide these public services, the county must be financially sound. Financial stability provides options and choices for service delivery to the people.

There are many ways in which my office can serve as a bridge between you and the county government. Oftentimes, my office can assist you and your neighbors in solving a problem – or directing you to the proper person within a County department or other agencies to help you sort out an issue. My office will initiate contact within the department and track these matters until you get an answer.

The best way to get advice or assistance is to send a letter or email to my office regarding your concern. A written statement (it does not have to be fancy) is the best way to get results. Please include your name, email and mailing address and phone number so my office can contact you.

I look forward to hearing from you and also welcome your comments about how we can improve this web site.

Sincerely,

Supervisor Gayle B. Uilkema

A PERSONAL NOTE

There are many areas of interest in government. I am always interested in knowing of your concerns and interests. I ask for your involvement as we move forward in addressing the issues that are important to you.

I look forward to hearing from you and hope that this web site provides an additional link for sharing your views  and communicating your opinions on the subjects of importance to you. Together we can make a difference.

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY 

Contra Costa County is home to approximately 1,030,000 people and over 23,000 businesses that are served by 19 cities, more than 250 special districts and the County government.  With an annual budget of over $1.5 billion, Contra Costa County is the 9th largest county in California.

The county also provides municipal services for the more than 157,000 residents of the unincorporated areas. If Contra Costa were a city, it would be the County's largest.

DISTRICT 2

District 2 has six incorporated cities within its boundaries: Danville, Lafayette, Moraga, Orinda, San Ramon and the western portion of Walnut Creek, including Rossmoor.  Additionally, several unincorporated communities are within the boundaries of District 2: Alamo, Canyon, Saranap, and a potion of unincorporated Walnut Creek. District 2 has large areas of undeveloped watershed and recreational parklands as well as expanses of open-spaces and trails.

The San Ramon Valley, with its vibrant business parks serve as an economic anchor to the area. San Ramon's headquarters of many large businesses and firms have provided growth to Contra Costa in the business and residential arenas. The dynamic housing growth provides housing to more than 72,000 residents. San Ramon is the fastest growing city in District 2.

The semi-rural ambiance of Lafayette, Moraga and Orinda provide a peaceful dimension to our county. The communities are described as nearing build-out and provide stable source of established housing. The Lamorinda Area has developed primarily during the past forty years and is an area that is known for its unique neighborhoods and high equality school systems.

Historic Alamo is located at the northerly portion of District 2. Its history is rich and the community prides itself on the civic involvement that provides a quality of life where all can participate. Alamo is a vibrant community yet a community of bucolic beauty. The natural beauty of Alamo is provided by the elegant backdrop of Mt. Diablo. Danville is located in the more central part of the San Ramon Valley and is a community of strong pride and active, organized involvement by its residents. A vibrant business community serves the needs of the area and is supported by the may civic and recreational programs that are cherished by the residents.

Walnut Creek is a hub for charming ambiance of a balanced cit that incorporates semi-rural living with a vital commercial downtown. Dedicated and involved citizens and business owners work together to continue future development in a high quality and pleasant fashion. Great civic pride is the hallmark of this successful community. Within the borders of Walnut Creek is the nationally known community of Rossmoor. Rossmoor has 10,000 residents and prides itself on providing a lifestyle for an active and vibrant population of seniors.

A strong and typical characteristic of the District 2 communities is the active involvement in municipal and governmental affairs. Volunteerism is an expected activity and is highly prized by an involved citizenry. High value is placed on accessible programs with a strong value system and goal to enhance recreational opportunities for youth.

Need I say that it is with great pride that I am able to represent the interest of the residents of District 2?

Please contact me with your comments and suggestions