Humboldt County Board of Supervisors proclaims May as Bike Month and Mental Health Month

The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors convened on May 6, 2025, to address several significant proclamations and community issues, marking the month of May with a focus on health, wellness, and awareness.

The meeting commenced with a proclamation declaring May as Bike Month in Humboldt County. Supervisor Calvin read the proclamation, highlighting the benefits of bicycling, including improved mobility, reduced traffic congestion, and enhanced public health. The proclamation emphasized the economic advantages of biking and the importance of bicycle infrastructure. The Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services accepted the proclamation, underscoring their commitment to promoting active transportation and community health initiatives.

Following this, Supervisor Wilson presented a proclamation for Mental Health Awareness Month. This proclamation aimed to raise awareness about mental health challenges affecting many residents, particularly in Humboldt County, where rates of suicide and addiction are notably high. The board called upon the community to support mental health initiatives and reduce stigma surrounding mental illness. Supervisor Wilson and other board members expressed gratitude for the efforts of local organizations in providing mental health services and emphasized the need for continued advocacy and support.

The meeting then shifted to a proclamation recognizing May as Older Americans Month. Supervisor Madrone read the proclamation, which focused on the importance of supporting older adults and the services provided by the Area 1 Agency on Aging. The board acknowledged the critical role of community support in ensuring the health and independence of older residents, especially in light of potential funding cuts that could jeopardize essential services.

Lastly, Supervisor Arroyo led a proclamation for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons (MMIP) Awareness Month. This proclamation aimed to raise awareness about the disproportionate violence faced by Indigenous communities and the ongoing crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous persons. The board highlighted recent legislative efforts to improve responses to these cases and called for community support in addressing this urgent issue.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from the board to continue advocating for health and safety initiatives across the county, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in these efforts. The board plans to follow up on these proclamations with further discussions and actions in upcoming meetings.