The Nevada County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday approved its annual Legislative Platform which drives the County’s state and federal advocacy efforts. County elected officials and staff use the 71-page platform to advocate with lawmakers on key issues , such as increased funding for broadband expansion and roadway safety.
Armed with the Legislative Platform, County advocates aim to change policy and secure funding in the state and nation’s capitols, where it can be challenging for small rural counties like Nevada County to be heard.
“Nevada County is at the forefront of rural counties. This document serves as a roadmap to advocating with partners on issues impacting our community,” said Supervisor Heidi Hall. The legislative priorities listed in the document are based on feedback from supervisors, community members, and organizations.
“This year, we received more input from our community stakeholders, our jurisdictional partners, and department heads above and beyond anything I have seen in my ten years here,” Chief of Staff/Clerk of the Board Jeff Thorsby told supervisors.
For example, the platform addresses wildfire insurance, the projected $68 billion state budget deficit, and changes to the state’s Mental Health Services Act. The County will also be looking to ensure projects such as the Edwards Crossing Bridge replacement project, improvements to the Independence Trail, the proposed North San Juan Fire Suppression System, and wildfire mitigation efforts remain or become fully funded.
With over 203 specific policies, the issues in the platform fall under five categories: administration of justice, agriculture, environment, and natural resources, government finance and administration, health and human services and housing, and land use and transportation.
