Nevada County is setting the stage for its advocacy efforts in 2026, with a focus on securing funds for essential projects and services. The Board of Supervisors, earlier this week, greenlit its Legislative Platform which serves as a blueprint for state and federal advocacy. Among the key topics are wildfire mitigation, bridge replacement, and the construction of a new regional animal shelter, according to details released on the county's official website.
Last year saw the county play a substantial role in legislative matters, with the successful obstruction of Assembly Bill 470, which would have seen a phase-out of traditional copper wire landlines, thanks to combined efforts with the Rural County Representatives of California (RCRC). Tracy Rhine, a senior policy advocate for RCRC, credited Supervisor Sue Hoek for her advocacy on this issue, as mentioned in a county announcement.
Similarly, the California State Association of Counties (CSAC), represented by chief legislative advocate Kimberly Rodriguez, highlighted instances where they were able to secure state funding for an unbudgeted November 2025 Statewide Special Election. Input for the 2026 platform came from various sectors, including RCRC, CSAC, senior County executives, elected officials, and community stakeholders. The platform emphasizes protection against funding cuts for core services and programs, support for special districts like fire districts, and the need for flexibility in statewide requirements to consider rural realities.
"The more that we can advocate quickly with letters and phone calls, or anything that means we don’t all have to be in a meeting, that’s very important," said Hoek, as noted in the county's news release. This approach gives the County leeway to swiftly address legislative opportunities or threats, backed by the Board's unanimous approval. A 50-page document accompanying the announcement details 30 priority projects for funding, including the community wellness initiative HealthSpan, Edwards Crossing bridge replacement, and the establishment of a new psychiatric treatment center.
With over 225 specific policies, the Legislative Platform categorizes issues under five main groups: administration of justice; agriculture, environment, and natural resources; government finance and administration; health and human services; and housing, land use, and transportation.
