City of San Rafael
Proclamation in Recognition of
SMALL BUSINESS WEEK 2026
May 3-9, 2026
WHEREAS, the City of San Rafael celebrates our thousands of local small businesses as they are essential contributors to the economic health of San Rafael; and WHEREAS, according to the California Office of the Small Business Advocate, there are 4.3 million small businesses in California and these generate 99% of net new jobs, 47% of private sector jobs, and make up 42% of annual California exports; and WHEREAS, the U.S. Small Business Administration, which acknowledges the critical contributions of America’s entrepreneurs and small business owners, has celebrated National Small Business Week (NSBW) for over 60 years to recognize their hard work, ingenuity, dedication, and contributions to the economy; and
WHEREAS, local organizations including the San Rafael Chamber of Commerce, San Rafael Downtown Business Improvement District, and the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Marin play a vital role in supporting small businesses through advocacy, networking, economic development initiatives, and culturally responsive outreach; and
WHEREAS, local and regional partners such as the Marin Small Business Development Center provide critical support, including advising, access to capital, and technical assistance to help small businesses start, grow, and succeed; and WHEREAS, San Rafael is home to over 5,800 businesses with fewer than 100 employees, which cumulatively provide over 26,000 jobs; and
WHEREAS, celebrating small businesses encourages residents to “shop local” and support the entrepreneurs who contribute to a vibrant and thriving local economy; and WHEREAS, shopping at small businesses in San Rafael helps enhance local character, stimulate entrepreneurship, increase community well-being, and create local jobs.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor and City Council of the City of San Rafael do hereby recognize and proclaim the City of San Rafael’s support of National Small Business Week (May 3-9, 2026), urge the residents of our community to support San Rafael’s small businesses, and express sincere appreciation for the contributions of local small businesses within the City of San Rafael.
_______________
Kate Colin
Mayor
Resolution of the
San Rafael City Council
in Recognition of
NATIONAL POLICE WEEK 2026
WHEREAS, the Congress and President of the United States have designated May 15, 2026, as Peace Officers' Memorial Day, and May 10th to 16th, 2026, as National Police Week; and
WHEREAS, the members of the San Rafael Police Department play an essential role in safeguarding the rights and freedoms of all those residing in or visiting San Rafael; and
WHEREAS, it is important that all residents know and understand the duties, responsibilities, hazards, and sacrifices of their law enforcement agency, and that members of the Police Department recognize their duty to serve the people by safeguarding life and property, by protecting them against violence and disorder, and by protecting the innocent against deception and the weak against oppression; and
WHEREAS, the men and women of the San Rafael Police Department unceasingly provide a vital public service.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Mayor and City Council of the City of San Rafael call upon all patriotic, civic, and educational organizations to observe the week of May 10th to the 16th, 2026, as National Police Week with appropriate ceremonies and observances in which all of our people may join in commemorating law enforcement officers, past and present, who, by their faithful and loyal devotion to their responsibilities, have rendered a dedicated service to their communities and, in so doing, have established for themselves an enviable and enduring reputation for preserving the rights and security of all residents.
FURTHERMORE, we call upon all residents of San Rafael to recognize Friday, May 15, as Peace Officers' Memorial Day in honor of those law enforcement officers who, through their courageous deeds, have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their community or have become disabled in the performance of duty, and let us recognize and pay respect to the survivors of our fallen heroes.
Kate Colin, Mayor
City of San Rafael
Proclamation in Recognition of
JEWISH AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
May 1 - 31, 2026
WHEREAS, May is recognized as Jewish American Heritage Month to honor the Jewish American experience -- a story of faith, fortitude, and progress connected to key tenets of American identity, including the right of freedom of religion for all; and
WHEREAS, throughout American history, generations of Jewish immigrants fleeing persecution have sought the promise of freedom and opportunity to start life anew in America; and
WHEREAS, the Jewish American community is diverse, with individuals connecting to their Jewish identity through various means, including culture, ethnicity, religion, and shared values, each bringing unique perspectives shaped by their histories and backgrounds; and
WHEREAS, there are an estimated 7.5 million Jewish Americans, with California being home to the second largest Jewish American population in the United States, with thriving communities throughout the state; and
WHEREAS, Jewish Americans have made enduring contributions across various fields, including science, arts, law, business, and public service, enriching the nation's development and diversity; and
WHEREAS, as we celebrate these accomplishments, we also recognize that members of the Jewish American communities continue to face antisemitism and discrimination; the City of San Rafael unequivocally condemns such acts and urges all community members to embrace, learn from, and collaborate with Jewish residents, celebrating both our differences and shared values, and supports the need for education and culturally competent policies that acknowledge and address the experiences and challenges faced by Jewish Americans in all facets of society; and
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor and City Council of the City of San Rafael hereby proclaim May 1-31, 2026, as Jewish American Heritage Month, in recognition and appreciation of the achievements and contributions made by members of the Jewish community and calls upon all residents to confront antisemitism and all forms of hate, support local education about the diversity within the Jewish community, and celebrate Jewish Americans who have woven the fabric of our country and community.
Kate Colin
Mayor
City of San Rafael
Proclamation in Recognition of
PUBLIC SERVICE RECOGNITION WEEK
May 3 - 9, 2026
WHEREAS, the week of May 3 through May 9, 2026, has been designated as Public Service Recognition Week to honor employees of federal, state, and local governments, and members of the uniformed services who are entrusted with missions fundamental to the United States and deliver services upon which Americans depend; and
WHEREAS, Public Service Recognition Week provides an opportunity to recognize and promote the important contributions of public servants and to honor those who serve their country, states, and communities at all levels of government; and WHEREAS, many public servants take an oath to support and defend the Constitution of the United States and to faithfully discharge the duties of their office, reflecting the foundational trust between public servants and the communities they serve; and
WHEREAS, millions of individuals serve the public in government service and in the uniformed services in every state, county, and city across the nation; and WHEREAS, public servants make substantial contributions to the American economy by managing public lands, infrastructure, financial systems, research institutions, and regulatory frameworks that support economic growth, protect consumers, and foster innovation; and
WHEREAS, public servants play a critical role in protecting the safety and security of the public, often working at great personal risk to prevent harm, respond to emergencies, and safeguard the well-being of their communities; and WHEREAS, public service is a noble calling encompassing a wide range of professions, and highly skilled individuals dedicate their knowledge, effort, and expertise in service to the public good.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor and City Council of the City of San Rafael hereby commends the dedication, professionalism, and commitment of public servants who deliver essential services to the community; recognizes the indispensable role public servants play in strengthening the economy, protecting public safety, safeguarding individual rights, and supporting effective and responsive government; honors the contributions of all public servants during Public Service Recognition Week, May 3 through May 9, 2026, and throughout the year; and encourages all residents of San Rafael to observe this week with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities that recognize and celebrate the service of those who work on behalf of the public.
Kate Colin
Mayor
City of San Rafael
Proclamation in Recognition of
CELEBRATE OLDER AMERICANS MONTH 2026
WHEREAS, May is Older Americans Month, a time for us to recognize and honor San Rafael older adults and their immense influence on every facet of American society; and WHEREAS, the City of San Rafael is home to more than 15,000 residents aged 60 or older, and more than 1,000 residents aged 90 or older, all of whom contribute their strength, wisdom, and experience to our community; and
WHEREAS, older San Rafael residents enrich our families, communities, and economy through diverse life experiences, cultures, and contributions. We all benefit when people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds are welcomed, included, and supported; and WHEREAS, the City of San Rafael recognizes the importance of creating a community that supports and provides the services that older residents need to thrive and live independently for as long as possible; and
WHEREAS, an objective of the City of San Rafael is to continue to implement the Age-Friendly Strategic Plan, including working with groups like the Age-Friendly Community Partnership to support ageism trainings and activities, and the San Rafael Goldenaires, to enhance recreation, social inclusion, and community connections; and
WHEREAS, the work of the Age Friendly San Rafael Community Partnership and the San Rafael Goldenaires helps the City to stay in front of these demographic shifts and continue to ensure older adults in our community are included, supported, and celebrated; and
WHEREAS, the theme of Older Americans Month 2026 is Champion Your Health, focusing on prevention, wellness, and personal responsibility as cornerstones of healthy aging.
It encourages taking an active role in managing your own health, advocating for yourself, accessing preventive care, and making informed decisions that support independence.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor and City Council of the City of San Rafael hereby proclaim the month of May as Older Americans Month in San Rafael and urge every resident to recognize the contributions of our older community members, help to create an inclusive and connected society, and join efforts to support older Americans’ choices about how they age in their communities.
Kate Colin
Mayor
City of San Rafael
Proclamation in Recognition of
San Rafael Fire Foundation
WHEREAS, the San Rafael Fire Foundation has demonstrated extraordinary dedication to enhancing the capabilities and safety of our community's fire services through tireless fundraising efforts and unwavering commitment to excellence; and
WHEREAS, the San Rafael Fire Foundation has successfully raised substantial funds to acquire critical equipment and resources that extend beyond the standard provisions of the municipal budget, thereby significantly enhancing our department's operational effectiveness; and WHEREAS, the San Rafael Fire Foundation's support has enabled the acquisition of advanced drone technology, providing our firefighters with aerial situational awareness capabilities for structure fires, hazardous materials incidents, and search and rescue operations, greatly improving incident response and firefighter safety; and WHEREAS, through the San Rafael Fire Foundation's exceptional efforts, our fire department has been equipped with a fireboat, enabling rapid response to maritime emergencies and vessel fires, as well as responding to waterfront structure fires, as it did in the August fire in the canal region of San Rafael; and
WHEREAS, these enhanced capabilities would not have been possible without the San Rafael Fire Foundation's innovative fundraising initiatives, community partnerships, and the generous support of donors who share their vision of a safer, better-protected community; and WHEREAS, San Rafael Fire Foundation exemplifies the spirit of civic engagement and community service, bridging the gap between essential needs and available resources through private philanthropy and public support; and
WHEREAS, the San Rafael Fire Foundation's contributions have directly impacted emergency response capabilities and enhanced the protection of life and property throughout the city; NOW, THEREFORE, that the Mayor and the City Council of San Rafael do hereby publicly recognize and commend the San Rafael Fire Foundation for its outstanding service to our community and its invaluable contributions to the safety and welfare of all residents.
The City Council extends its deepest gratitude to the Foundation's board members, volunteers, donors, and supporters whose collective efforts have strengthened our fire services and demonstrated the profound impact that dedicated citizens can achieve when united in common purpose.
Kate Colin
Mayor
City of San Rafael
Proclamation in Recognition of
ASIAN AMERICAN, NATIVE HAWAI’IAN, AND PACIFIC ISLANDER
HERITAGE MONTH
May 1 - 31, 2026
WHEREAS, first commemorated in 1987 as a week and expanded in 1990 to a full month, Asian American, Native Hawai’ian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month recognizes, celebrates, and increases awareness of the rich history, contributions, and accomplishments of Asian Americans, Native Hawai’ians, and Pacific Island Americans; and
WHEREAS, the month of May was chosen to coincide with two milestones in Asian/Pacific American history: the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants in America on May 7, 1843, and the Chinese workers’ role in building the transcontinental railroad, completed May 10, 1869; and
WHEREAS, during AANHPI Heritage Month, we recognize trailblazers such as Representative Dalip Singh Saund, who in 1957 became the first Asian American to serve in Congress, and Representative Patsy Mink, the first Asian American woman elected to Congress; and
WHEREAS, these communities encompass a vast array of cultures, languages, and traditions, contributing richly to the nation's diversity; and WHEREAS, the national theme for 2026, as announced by the Federal Asian Pacific American Council (FAPAC), is “Power in Unity: Strengthening Communities Together”, which highlights the importance of leveraging our collective power, telling our stories, and being bridge builders in our communities; and WHEREAS, the City of San Rafael encourages all residents to learn more about the rich heritage of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities, to stand against racism and xenophobia, and to support the next generations of AANHPI individuals both locally and nationally.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor and City Council of the City of San Rafael proclaim May 1-May 31, 2026, as Asian American, Native Hawai’ian, and Pacific Islander Heritage (AANHPI) Month, and do hereby reaffirm our shared values of compassion, equity, inclusion, and celebrating diversity and the impacts that AANHPI have had locally and nationally.
Kate Colin
Mayor
City of San Rafael
Proclamation in Recognition of
WILDFIRE PREPAREDNESS WEEK 2026
WHEREAS, the risk of wildfire in the City of San Rafael, Marin County, the State of California, and many areas of North America is a significant concern to community members, elected leadership, and Fire Department personnel; and WHEREAS, following the devastation of recent California fire seasons, including destructive wildfire events in Southern California, Governor Newsom proclaimed a statewide emergency in March 2025 to fast-track critical wildfire prevention and fuels reduction projects, and as of 2026, more than 300 wildfire safety projects have been expedited statewide to protect communities from catastrophic fire; and
WHEREAS, Marin County voters agreed to take action to address the growing threat of wildfire with the passage of Measure C in 2020, which supports the San Rafael Wildfire Prevention and Protection Action Plan so staff and residents can continue to make significant strides to reduce community risk; and WHEREAS, the City remains committed to implementing a whole community approach to address the risks associated with wildfires, including strategic vegetation management, ignition reduction, evacuation improvements, reliable emergency alerting, public education, and providing resources to residents; and WHEREAS, addressing wildfire risk requires year-round resident action to create effective defensible space focusing on zone zero, or the immediate first five feet that surround structures, to best protect lives, prevent ignitions of structures, and maintain critical housing for community members; and
WHEREAS, This year’s theme is “Prepare Today, Protect Tomorrow: Your Role in California’s Wildfire Safety”, focusing on actions like creating defensible space, hardening homes, and building evacuation plans to help protect lives, property, and communities.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor and City Council of the City of San Rafael hereby proclaim May 3-9, 2026, as Wildfire Preparedness Week and, in doing so, urge all residents and community members to take adaptive wildfire preparation steps to reduce our community’s risk profile and achieve safety related to wildfire.
Kate Colin
Mayor