In brief: Concord’s DeSaulnier, others introduce gun safety technology bill

CONCORD

U.S. Reps. Mark DeSaulnier, D-Concord, Zoe Lofgren, D-San Jose, and Don Beyer, D-Virginia, recently announced the introduction of the Advancing Gun Safety Technology Act (H.R. 6697), a bill that would help bring life-saving gun safety technology to the market.

Specifically, the bill would create a $10 million pilot program at the U.S. Justice Department’s National Institute of Justice to support private-sector commercialization of gun safety technology. This legislation is supported by the Brady, Everytown and Giffords advocacy groups.

Gun safety technology — such as is used in smart guns, user-authorized handguns, childproof guns, personalized guns and safes and locking devices that include personalized technology — is designed to reduce the likelihood of an accidental or unauthorized use of guns.

According to the Educational Fund to Stop Gun Violence, nearly 500 people die each year in the United States from unintentional firearm injuries, which also account for 37% of nonfatal firearm injuries.

“With gun violence taking such a devastating toll on our communities, and as the son of someone who took his life by gun suicide, I strongly believe that we need to use every tool in the toolbox to address the gun violence epidemic,” DeSaulnier said.

“Gun safety technology will help reduce accidental shootings and gun suicides while protecting responsible gun owners, and this bill will help make that technology available to more people. I am grateful to join with my colleagues in introducing this important legislation.”

The legislation was previously introduced by former U.S. Rep. Jackie Speier, D-San Mateo. For information online, visit bit.ly/3GQ7Oz2.

— U.S. Rep. DeSaulnier’s office

ORINDA

AAUW chapter meeting Jan. 16 to discuss food insecurity

The American Association of University Women, Orinda-Moraga-Lafayette Branch, will hold a meeting at 9:30 a.m. Jan. 16 in the Orinda Community Church at 10 Irwin Way in Orinda. The meeting is open to the public, and the topic will be food insecurity in Contra Costa County.

A panel of speakers will drill down on this topic and examine and discuss ways that the AAUW branch can support families with food Insecurity in Lamorinda and Contra Costa County. Speakers at the meeting will be Daniel McCarthy, the Gael Pantry coordinator at St. Mary’s College in Lafayette; Janette Kennedy, of Loaves and Fishes of Contra Costa County; and a representative from the Contra Costa Food Bank.

— Marilyn Evans

WALNUT CREEK

Council approves Haskew as mayor for next 12 months

At the Walnut Creek City Council’s Dec. 5 meeting, Mayor Cindy Silva passed the gavel to Mayor Pro Tem Loella Haskew.

The council unanimously approved the appointment of Haskew, who will serve through early December 2024. Councilmember Cindy Darling will serve as the city’s mayor pro tem. Before Haskew’s selection, outgoing Silva reflected on the past year of city operations.

“This has been a busy and productive year for Walnut Creek,” said Silva. “I appreciated the support and input from the community on issues of importance to our residents.”

Haskew was first elected to the council in November 2012 and has previously served as mayor in 2016 and 2020.

“I am looking forward to serving with my fellow Councilmembers to continue our work for the community,” she said. “We have many high-priority programs and services to deliver.”

Haskew has an extensive background in community service, having been on a wide variety of volunteer boards and commissions. She received her bachelor of science degree in accounting from Golden Gate University, where she also earned a master’s degree in taxation in 1986.

— city of Walnut Creek

CONCORD

Birsan, Obringer voted in as city’s new mayor, vice mayor

At the Dec. 5 Concord City Council meeting, outgoing Mayor Laura Hoffmeister turned over the gavel to Vice Mayor Edi Birsan after he was selected by fellow councilmembers as the city’s mayor for 2024.

Councilmember Carlyn Obringer was selected to serve as vice mayor for the year ahead. Birsan, Obringer and Councilmembers Dominic Aliano and Laura Nakamura thanked Hoffmeister for her service as mayor.

In addition, Hoffmeister recognized “Bike Concord” leader S.M. “Smitty” Ardrey with the mayor’s 2023 Community Service Award in honor of Ardrey’s work to support the bicyclist community. Hoffmeister also presented a proclamation to the Contra Costa Blue Star Moms.

— city of Concord

ANTIOCH

Grants available from city for various facilities, activities

The city of Antioch offers one-time grants to provide funding that supports operations, marketing and promotions for Antioch special events, historic and cultural activities and facilities that enhance civic pride and strengthen community engagement within the city.

Grants are funded by revenues from city transient occupancy taxes and/or the general fund and are approved by the City Council. City officials will review applications, and the Antioch City Council will make final grant award decisions.

Funds may only be used for: activities performed directly for the benefit and enjoyment of all Antioch residents; facilities or activities open to the public and all citizens and/or underserved youth/communities; improvements to or operation of arts and cultural facilities; or general city beautification.

Applicants and grant recipients must meet certain reporting requirements and deadlines. This may include reports of how grant funds from previous fiscal years and or grantors were used. For more details online, visit antiochca.gov/recreation/civic-enhancement-grants.

— city of Antioch

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