Josh Pedrozo Merced County Supervisor

Busy week with important discussions, community events and some great family moments.

T: Board briefing on budget issues. Some positive developments, but more to come.

W: Started the day with a meeting with a member of the Workforce Development Board, followed by a constituent meeting on senior health care and a briefing on an analysis of health care for Merced County employees. There will be a full presentation at Tuesday’s Board meeting.

I also chaired the Central California Alliance for Health meeting. The uncertainty around health care funding remains frustrating. We need to make sure people are taken care of while also making it clear that counties cannot continue to absorb responsibilities that belong to the state.

Later, I attended the monthly Merced Booster Club meeting hosted by Mr. Lorenzi. He is a pioneer, leader and mentor of mine. Proud to call him a friend and honored to be part of the family.

R: Board briefings on budget and closed session matters, then my nephew AJ’s promotion to high school. Proud of you, AJ.

F: Mass at OLM for Lucy’s last day of school, a policy discussion with an Atwater council member, coffee with a Workforce Development Board member and then Lucy’s championship game. They won, and I could not be prouder of her effort and determination. I missed the preview show at the Playhouse, but I heard Owen and everyone involved crushed it.

S: Ribbon cutting for Cali-Rays. It is always great to recognize entrepreneurs willing to take a chance on Merced. Their investment helps strengthen our community and create opportunities for others.

Sunday: Cal Poly is headed to the Super Regionals. Ride high, ye Mighty Mustangs.

Board mtg. Tuesday 6/2, 10:00am.

I hope everyone had a great week and an even better one ahead here in Merced County.

Monday: I had a check in with our Director of Public Health to discuss goals, priorities and the continued uncertainty around HR 1 and the state budget. Regardless of politics, counties need a commitment from the Legislature and Administration that funding for state mandated programs will be upheld. We are actively working to navigate these challenges.

Tuesday: Board meeting day. We appointed Dora Crane to the Cemetery Board, approved a new agreement with TJPA and MCAG and authorized new gates for the Veterans Hall in District 2. I also attended the Political Science graduation reception at UC Merced. Impressive students and great work by the faculty.

Wednesday: During public comments following Tuesday's board meeting I proposed a community naming contest for the bear carving at Courthouse Park and it is happening. We filmed a video and details on how to participate are or will be available at countyofmerced.com. I wrapped up the day at the Hilton Garden Inn ribbon cutting. Thank you to Dan and Grace Moradzadeh for your investment in our community.

Thursday: I attended a renewable energy meeting followed by the District Attorney’s Victim Awareness Ceremony. DA Nicole Silveira continues to do an outstanding job advocating for victims and holding offenders accountable.

Friday: I met with the Sheriff’s Department to follow up on the vehicle leasing program approved in October. I appreciate their responsiveness and commitment to public safety. Later I attended the Burchell Bridge ribbon cutting and the Boys and Girls Club annual fundraiser. It was great to be part of the catering crew led by my dad John and helped by Jeremiah.

Saturday: I took Lucy to the ribbon cutting and celebration of Kiddieland at Applegate Park. I am proud that First 5 of Merced County contributed $623,000 in grant funding to support this project. Then it was softball practice and a date night at the CASA event. CASA does incredible work giving foster youth a voice.

Sunday: Lucy’s tournament was canceled but I was able to support my friend Pao Mua in his city council run, attend the Old Timers event with Mrs. Herkert followed by a memorial service for Mr. Joel Knox.
A long week but a good one. Thank you all for your continued support. As always if there is anything I can do to help please reach out.

Also thank you Glen Camarda for tagging me in the picture!