Special Notice / Hearing: None__
Vote Required: Majority
To: Honorable Board of Supervisors
From: Supervisor Noelia Corzo, District 2
Supervisor Ray Mueller, District 3
Subject: Resolution Reaffirming the County of San Mateo’s Support and Protections for Vulnerable Communities
RECOMMENDATION:
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Adopt a resolution reaffirming the County of San Mateo’s support and protections for vulnerable communities.
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BACKGROUND:
Over the past several years, San Mateo County has taken significant strides to promote equity, inclusion, and belonging for all residents. This resolution establishes the Board of Supervisors’ intent to continue this progress and continue implementing existing protections. This resolution builds on prior actions taken by the Board of Supervisors, including the adoption of Resolution No. 21-672 to advance racial equity and the recent passage of Chapter 1.50 of the County Ordinance Code, which integrates equity into County decision-making.
DISCUSSION:
Recommitting to the County’s efforts to foster equity, inclusion, and belonging is critical due to heightened fear and uncertainty about safety and belonging among many vulnerable communities, including immigrants, women, people of color, LGBTQIA+ individuals, individuals with disabilities, and other historically marginalized groups due to the incoming federal administration.
The resolution reaffirms the Board of Supervisors’ commitment to protecting and empowering vulnerable communities in San Mateo County. It acknowledges the challenges posed by discriminatory rhetoric and policies at the national level and reaffirms the County’s role as a leader in promoting equity, inclusion, and safety. The County recognizes that diversity is one of its greatest strengths, and this resolution communicates that the County will continue to support and expand its initiatives to help all individuals feel welcomed, valued, and protected.
In September 2021, the Board of Supervisors adopted Resolution No. 21-672, formally acknowledging the historical and systemic inequities faced by Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities and committing to key initiatives such as the establishment of an Office of Racial and Social Equity, the creation of a Chief Equity Officer position, and the development of a Racial and Social Equity Action Plan. Building on this foundation, the Board adopted Chapter 1.50 of the County Ordinance Code in April 2024, embedding equity as a core value in County decision-making, encouraging diverse representation on boards and commissions, and expanding community engagement efforts to ensure all residents can participate fully in civic life.
The County has provided strong support to immigrant communities, including by providing funding for arriving unaccompanied immigrant minors and immigration legal services, establishing the Removal Defense Fund and Rapid Response Network, holding “Know Your Rights” trainings, and contributing to the Immigrant Families Recovery Fund to provide financial assistance to immigrant families ineligible for the federal child tax credit.
In addition, the Board has taken action to advance the rights and dignity of LGBTQIA+ individuals by establishing the LGBTQIA+ Commission, which advises on policies and initiatives to address the community’s priorities.
The County has also focused on advancing equity for women and children by creating a dedicated Women and Children’s Officer position and the adopting a comprehensive Women and Children’s Action Plan to promote well-being, safety, and access to opportunities. Moreover, the County has demonstrated its commitment to people with disabilities by hosting initiatives such as the annual Inclusion Festival, which fosters understanding, acceptance, and celebration of individuals of all abilities.
San Mateo County’s dedication to creating an inclusive community has earned national recognition, with the County being designated a “Certified Welcoming County” in January 2024 for its efforts to welcome residents of all socioeconomic, racial, ethnic, and national backgrounds.
The aim of this resolution is to clearly establish that vulnerable communities can count on the County to continue protecting, empowering, and advocating for them and do not fear that the County will let this progress be reversed.
EQUITY IMPACT:
Recommitting to equity, inclusion, and belonging is essential for addressing the growing fears and challenges faced by historically marginalized groups in San Mateo County, including immigrants, women, people of color, LGBTQIA+ individuals, individuals with disabilities, and other vulnerable populations. This resolution reinforces the County’s leadership in advancing policies and initiatives that protect and empower these communities, particularly in light of heightened discriminatory rhetoric and fear nationally. This resolution aims for all residents, including those from vulnerable communities, to feel valued and supported.
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no fiscal impact associated with adopting this resolution.