Special Notice / Hearing: None__
Vote Required: Majority
To: Honorable Board of Supervisors
From: Supervisor Ray Mueller, District 3
Subject: Appointments to the Farmworker Advisory Commission
RECOMMENDATION:
title
Recommendation for the following appointments to the Farmworker Advisory Commission:
A) Teresa Jimenez, representing Farmworker, for an initial partial term ending June 30, 2028; and
B) Guillermo Ramirez Sanchez, representing Farmworker, for an initial partial term ending June 30, 2027.
body
BACKGROUND:
On June 14, 2022, the Board of Supervisors established the San Mateo County Farmworker Advisory Commission (Resolution No. 078906) as further amended September 24, 2024 (Resolution No. 080650). In creating the Farmworker Advisory Commission, the Board recognized that the agriculture industry is a major component of the San Mateo County economy.
This ten-member Commission promotes programs and policies that address the unmet needs of farmworkers in San Mateo County. The Commission’s areas of focus include: advising the Board of Supervisors and County agencies on effectively outreaching to farmworkers and their families; helping farmworkers and their families navigate public agencies and access benefits and services; raising awareness among farmworkers about labor laws and other protections; bringing visibility to issues that disproportionately affect farmworkers; and helping to build trust and relationships in the County’s agricultural community, particularly between employers and employees.
Commissioners must be residents of San Mateo County and be members of one of the following groups: four (4) farmworkers, three (3) representatives from a designated community-based organization that targets and benefits the County’s farmworker population; 1 (one) family member of a farmworker; 1 (one) member from the San Mateo County Agricultural Advisory Committee; and 1 (one) representative from the agricultural industry who is not a farmworker.
Initial terms of Commission members were staggered to help ensure the continuity of the Commission. Five of the ten members served initial two-year terms. After the initial term, all members serve three-year terms, with a maximum term limit of four three-year terms.
DISCUSSION:
Teresa Jimenez is being recommended to represent as a Farmworker on the FAC, for an initial partial term ending June 30, 2028, formerly held by Yolanda Guzman Calderon. Guillermo Ramirez Sanchez is being recommended to represent as Farmworker on the FAC, for an initial partial term ending June 30, 2027, a seat formerly held by Yesenia Garcia.
Teresa Jimenez has worked in the fields of San Mateo County, a community she has proudly called home. Farming is more than her livelihood; it is central to her identity. Alongside her husband, who is also a farmworker, Ms. Jimenez has built a life grounded in hard work, family, and community. Their dedication and perseverance have created meaningful opportunities for their daughters, one of whom recently graduated from college, while the other is currently pursuing her studies at a community college.
Teresa finds profound fulfillment in her work. She feels a deep connection to the land and a genuine respect for the sustenance it provides. Her years in the fields have strengthened her resilience and broadened her perspective, motivating her to serve on the Farmworker Advisory Commission and advocate on behalf of farmworkers throughout San Mateo County.
Her vision is both clear and compelling: every farmworker deserves a livable wage, safe working conditions, and full respect for their rights. For Ms. Jimenez, this is not merely an aspiration, it is a future she is committed to advancing
Guillermo Ramirez Sanchez is a dedicated farmworker who has lived and worked in Pescadero for more than 25 years. For over two decades, he has been a committed employee of the same organic farm, exemplifying reliability, skill, and steadfast dedication to his craft.
Guillermo Ramirez Sanchez is a devoted husband, father of four, and proud grandfather of three. He takes great pride in the fact that his youngest daughter is currently attending college, and his youngest son is enrolled in high school, reflecting his enduring dedication to supporting his children’s education and future success.
Beyond his work in the fields of the San Mateo County South Coast and time spent with his family, Guillermo is an active advocate for his community. As a member of the grassroots farmworker organization Del Campo Al Cambio, he has worked to elevate the voices and needs of farmworkers. He has raised awareness before the Pescadero Municipal Advisory Council, the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors, and members of the State Legislature, demonstrating his enduring commitment to advancing equity and opportunity for farmworker families.
FISCAL IMPACT:
None.