WHEREAS, California’s 58 counties serve all of the state’s 39,500,000 residents by providing essential services that foster healthy, safe, and thriving communities; and

WHEREAS, Counties administer and deliver programs that impact nearly every aspect of daily life, including public health, safety, infrastructure, environmental stewardship, economic development, and social services; and

WHEREAS, Counties serve a critical role in disaster response, providing vital services and coordination during emergencies, aiding in response efforts, and mitigating the risk of future emergencies; and

WHEREAS, Counties take pride in their role as California’s operational backbone, implementing state and federal programs while responding to local needs with efficiency, innovation, and fiscal responsibility; and

WHEREAS, Under the leadership of California State Association of Counties (CSAC) President and Santa Clara County Supervisor Susan Ellenberg, and the CSAC Board of Directors, counties continue to work with other local governments to advocate for policies and resources that support effective service delivery and local decisionmaking; and

WHEREAS, Counties play a vital role in engaging residents, fostering civic partnership, and ensuring transparent and responsive governance; and

WHEREAS, The year 2026 marks the 176th anniversary of the incorporation of California’s original 27 counties and California’s statehood, in tandem with our nation’s 250th anniversary, underscoring the enduring role of counties in shaping and serving communities across the state; and

WHEREAS, Since its founding in 1895, CSAC has championed the interests of California counties, advocating on their behalf before the legislature, educating county leaders and the public, and elevating their programs, initiatives, and contributions to the communities they serve; now, therefore, be it