San Joaquin County set to terminate landfill operations agreement saving $2M annually

San Joaquin County's Board of Supervisors made significant strides in addressing mental health and substance abuse issues during their regular meeting on April 22, 2025. The board unanimously approved a new initiative aimed at tackling the root causes of these challenges rather than merely applying temporary solutions. Supervisor Rickman emphasized the importance of this approach, stating, "You have to look at the underlying cause and stop putting band aids on things," highlighting the initiative's potential impact on the community.

The board's decision aligns with recent discussions held at the National Association of Counties (NACo) meeting, where the focus was on innovative solutions for mental health and substance abuse. The initiative aims to provide comprehensive support for individuals struggling with these issues, allowing law enforcement to focus on those who refuse to engage with available services.

In addition to the mental health initiative, the board approved a significant reassessment of the Downtown Stockton Community Improvement District. This will increase the annual assessment from $104,707 to $122,430 over a 20-year term starting in 2026. The expansion of the district is designed to enhance public safety and economic development, particularly in light of ongoing housing projects in the area.

The meeting also addressed the future of the Foothill Sanitary Landfill. Public Works Director Fritz Buckman proposed terminating the current operational agreement, which could save the county approximately $2 million annually. This move is part of a broader strategy to transition landfill operations to county management, potentially leading to further savings and improved efficiency.

Overall, the board's decisions reflect a commitment to addressing critical community issues while promoting fiscal responsibility and innovation. The anticipated outcomes from these initiatives are expected to foster better community health and economic stability in San Joaquin County.