A Look Back at CSAC’s 131st Annual Meeting

58 Counties. One Voice.

County supervisors and staff from all 58 counties gathered for five days of workshops, policy committee meetings, and dynamic panels. Leaders explored paths forward on issues such as public safety, behavioral health, and environment, positioning counties for success in 2026 and beyond.

Here are some of the moments and voices that made this week special.

During the Annual Banquet, the 2025–26 CSAC Officers were officially installed, with Santa Clara County Supervisor Susan Ellenberg assuming the role of President.

CSAC hosted its first-ever Gubernatorial Forum, with remarks from candidates who shared their vision for California’s future.

They addressed strengthening the county safety net, disaster preparedness and recovery, housing and homelessness, public safety reforms, and expanding economic opportunity.
 
When it comes to moving policy from the Governor’s office to the county level, state and local collaboration is critical.

Committee meetings brought forward recommendations for CSAC’s legislative priorities and showcased innovative programs from counties across the state.

Members also joined a workshop on navigating federal uncertainty, where Attorney General Rob Bonta discussed the expansive changes occurring at the federal level and California’s response. The session highlighted how local governments can prepare and support communities amid rapidly shifting federal directives.

Receptions and small-group sessions gave county officials the chance to build connections and exchange effective strategies.
 
The Women’s Leadership Forum celebrated the work and achievement of women in public service. Their workshop, “Becoming an AI Orchestrator,” revealed best practices in human-machine collaboration.

At the daily General Sessions, members heard from renowned keynote speakers such as David Brooks, New York Times op-ed columnist and bestseller, and Alex Sheen, founder of the nonprofit “because I said I would” and five-time TEDx speaker.

The 2025 Annual Meeting was a week of collaboration and inspiration, leaving us energized to continue advocating on behalf of all of California’s counties. This week couldn’t have been successful without CSAC members, who work tirelessly to fight for their communities and the betterment of the state of California.