Shelter-in-Place Two-Year Anniversary

county seal

A message from:
Board of Supervisors
Susan S. Muranishi, County Administrator

March 18, 2022

Dear Colleagues,

Two years ago this week, the Board of Supervisors declared a state of emergency in response to COVID-19. Since the start of the pandemic, Alameda County has recorded over 225,000 cases of COVID-19 and mourns the loss of over 1,800 lives.

With the challenges and uncertainty facing our residents and businesses over the past two years, we commend your dedication to public service and know you will continue to inspire and energize us for the work ahead. In keeping critical County services open, supporting each other, and developing ways to better serve our communities, each one of you has been instrumental in ensuring our residents and employees are assisted with care and compassion

With your help, together we were able to:

  • Remain open for business in service to over 1.7 million county residents,
  • Work together and deliver County services in creative and innovative ways, and
  • Maintain a clear focus on our core mission of public service to our residents and diverse communities.

As we look to the future and build upon our experiences to continue enriching and expanding our service to Alameda County, we know that we are better when we are aligned and work in partnership with the communities we serve.

The pandemic altered the course of our lives and as we learn to live with COVID, we know a few things to be true. We know that prevention works - vaccines and boosters, masks, hand washing, and staying home when ill. We've learned that each of us can take precautions to reduce the risk of COVID-19 to ourselves, our loved ones, our communities, and colleagues. In moving forward, we must also mind our mental health and wellbeing. Public health measures like shelter-in-place did a lot to stop the virus, but also contributed to feelings of isolation, loneliness, economic uncertainty, and anxiety. If you are experiencing these feelings, know that it's ok to need support, and we urge you to reach out to the Employee Assistance Program as needed.

It has been a difficult two years for our employees, our residents, and our communities. It has also been a time that has strengthened our resolve as we turned challenges into opportunities, created innovative solutions, strengthened our community partnerships, and demonstrated our resilience.

The work we've done together is incredible, and it would not have been possible without you. THANK YOU for all that you've done to manifest our mission and values, and for supporting each other.

Together we are better, and we are grateful for you. Please stay healthy and be safe.