To: Board of Supervisors
Department or Agency Name(s): County Executive’s Office, Human Services
Staff Name and Phone Number: M. Christina Rivera 707-565-2431; Angela Struckmann, 707-565-5800
Vote Requirement: Majority
Supervisorial District(s): Countywide
Recommended Action:
Title
Approve the Reappointment of Oscar Chavez to the First 5 Sonoma County Commission for a two-year term beginning May 14, 2026 and ending on May 13, 2028. (Countywide)
End
Executive Summary:
First 5 Sonoma County is a public agency focused on supporting the healthy development of children from prenatal age through age five. The governance board for First 5 consists of a 9-member commission appointed by the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors in accordance with the bylaws <https://first5sonomacounty.org/wp-content/uploads/CAC_FINAL-BYLAWS_-5.6.25.pdf>. The First 5 Sonoma County Commission recommends the reappointment of Oscar Chavez to the sector seat representing a nonprofit organization supporting children & families for a two-year term beginning May 14, 2026, and ending on May 13, 2028.
Discussion:
First 5 Sonoma County partners with local organizations and provides grants to improve outcomes for young children and their families. Funded by California’s Proposition 10 tobacco tax and Measure I - Sonoma County Child Care & Children's Health Initiative, First 5 invests in programs that promote early learning, family resilience, and child health. Key initiatives include parenting support, early childhood education, and innovative programs like guaranteed income pilots for low-income families. Through strategic planning and community engagement, First 5 aims to give every child in Sonoma County a strong start in life.
Oscar Chavez is currently the President and CEO of Community Foundation Sonoma County, a nonprofit community funder that has a long history of partnership with First 5. With over 25 years of service to Sonoma County, Mr. Chavez brings deep expertise in advancing programs that support young children and their families in our community. His work has focused on expanding access to early childhood resources, strengthening family support systems, and promoting economic stability for underserved communities. Mr. Chavez’s deep understanding of local systems, commitment to equity, and ability to convene partners to improve outcomes for children and families make him exceptionally well-suited to continue serving on the Commission.
On January 26, 2026, the First 5 Commission voted unanimously to recommend that the Board of Supervisors reappoint Mr. Chavez for a two-year term beginning May 14, 2026 and ending on May 13, 2028.
Strategic Plan:
Not Applicable.
Prior Board Actions:
05-14-2024: Approved the appointment of Oscar Chavez for a two-year term beginning May 14, 2024, and ending on May 13, 2026.
Fiscal Summary
Narrative Explanation of Fiscal Impacts:
Not Applicable.
Narrative Explanation of Staffing Impacts (If Required):
Not Applicable.
Attachments:
None.
Related Items “On File” with the Clerk of the Board:
None.