In this episode of Government Speak, we’re digging into the hidden history written into the deeds of homes across Contra Costa County. The Clerk-Recorder’s Office discuss the Mapping Prejudice Project—a powerful nationwide initiative uncovering racially restrictive housing covenants that once shaped who could live where in our communities.

What does it mean to map these covenants today? How does this work help us better understand modern-day housing inequities? And where do we go from here?

Guests: Clerk-Recorder and Registrar of Voters Kristin Connelly and Host Kristi Jourdan

Contra Costa Animal Services is more than just a shelter—it’s where compassion, public safety, and community connection come together. In this episode, we go behind the scenes with the dedicated team that rescues animals, reunites families, and supports safe, healthy neighborhoods. From field officers to adoption counselors, learn how Animal Services protects both people and pets—every day.

Guests: Animal Services Director Ben Winkleblack, Public Information Officer Steve Burdo, and Host Kristi Jourdan

From tarmac to takeoff, Director of Airports Greg Baer shares more about how the two County-owned airports boost the local economy and are gateways to growth and innovation in the community.

Guests: Airport Director Greg Baer and Host Kristi Jourdan

From inspecting restaurants and responding to compost odor issues, to making sure our drinking water is safe — Environmental Health is working behind the scenes to keep our communities healthy. In this episode of Government Speak, we sit down with Director Kristian Lucas to talk about the vital, everyday work of Contra Costa County’s Environmental Health Division. Learn how they respond to emerging issues, enforce safety standards, and help build a cleaner, safer future for everyone.

Guests: Environmental Health Director Kristian Lucas and Host Kristi Jourdan

In this episode, we’re exploring how Contra Costa County is driving change toward a more sustainable future. Energy Manager Brendan Havenar-Daughton joins us to talk about the County’s efforts in energy management, expanding electric vehicle infrastructure, and building a greener tomorrow.

From potholes to sandbags, Public Works Director Warren Lai shares more about how the department helps keep the community safe and running smoothly and what actions residents can take to prepare for stormy weather.

Guests: Public Works Director Warren Lai, Public Works PIO Kelly Kalfsbeek, and Host Kristi Jourdan

In this episode, County Librarian Alison McKee talks about how libraries can address the national literacy crisis, serve unhoused populations, and save communities money.

Guests: County Librarian Alison McKee and Host Kristi Jourdan

20-25 minutes

In this episode, Contra Costa County’s Health Officer Dr. Ori Tzvieli, shares more about how everyone can stay healthy during winter cold and flu season.

Guests: Dr. Ori Tzvieli and Host Kristi Jourdan

Since 1965, Contra Costa County has been a Head Start provider, ensuring access to early childhood education, health, and nutrition services to low-income children and their families, as well as parent involvement. A local panel of parental and child development experts will discuss how the program is a lifeline, a stepping stone, and an opportunity for future success for vulnerable children and families in Contra Costa County.

Guests:

Sarah Reich, Community Services Bureau Interim Deputy Director at the Employment & Human Services Department.

Ruth Hunter, Site Supervisor George Miller III Center, Richmond

Juan De Dios Batiz, Parent and Head Start Policy Councilmember

In this episode, Deputy Chief Chuck Stark discusses how residents can prepare for the ongoing wildfire season and shares more about Confire’s efforts to mitigate the impact of wildfires throughout Contra Costa County

Guests: Confire Deputy Chief Chuck Stark and Host Kristi Jourdan.