Library repair, police funding and housing: State of County speech shows Stanislaus priorities
Stanislaus County board Chairman Mani Grewal chose the library as the platform for his State of the County speech Thursday.
He shared how the Modesto Library resources were instrumental in shaping the lives of county Chief Executive Officer Jody Hayes and Grewal’s spouse, a young immigrant who went on to operate dental offices in the region.
County staff said 400 programs were handed out to attendees.
The county is investing millions of dollars in renovations at the Modesto Library along with matching state funds and philanthropic dollars.
Speaking from the library stairs, Grewal said the $18 million in renovation work will ensure more learning opportunities for Stanislaus County residents in future years.
Grewal said the county’s resolve was tested in the past few years by the global COVID emergency and political gridlock. But he said the compassion and collaborative spirit of the people can drive “us to embrace change, cultivate innovation, and forge a path towards a brighter tomorrow.”
In the year ahead, he said, the county has a priority to make progress on building community. Grewal pointed to a budget increase to strengthen law enforcement, emergency operations and criminal justice services.
District Attorney Jeff Laugero was praised for creating a culture in the DA’s office that brings in more staff attorneys than are leaving.
Grewal said 10 new positions in the Public Defender’s office will make caseloads more manageable, and the county is adding Probation Department staff to rehabilitate parolees.
The county will also stay the course on infrastructure improvements in disadvantaged neighborhoods, investments in the Stanislaus 2030 economic initiative and providing affordable dwellings for those who need it.
Grewal referred to new online permitting software in the county Planning Department to make building and development easier.
“Our aim is to position our county as a premier destination in the region with the infrastructure backbone and quality-of-life amenities to draw new businesses, investors, visitors and talent,” he said.
Grewal assured the county is strong as indicated by economic momentum, low unemployment and thriving businesses.
While the county faces challenges such as homelessness and addiction, “we don’t shy away from them or make excuses. Instead, we tackle our biggest issues head-on, together as one community, united in this joyful purpose,” Grewal said.
