Climate change is no longer a distant threat – it is a reality affecting our communities today. From rising sea levels and extreme weather to environmental injustices disproportionately impacting vulnerable populations, the legal system plays a critical role in shaping how we respond. But the law is not just for policymakers and corporations; it is a tool for communities, advocates, and individuals working to protect our shared future.

It is an honor to step into the role of President of the Marin County Bar Association, and I am deeply grateful for the support and encouragement I have received along the way.

On February 12th, 2025, MCBA was proud to host its annual Board and Officers Installation Dinner and Legal Education Scholarship Fundraiser at the Mill Valley Community Center. Despite a rainy and cold evening, 149 guests, elected officials, and judges gathered to witness the induction of MCBA’s 2025 officers and directors, and to celebrate the 2025 Legal Education Scholarship recipients.

Canal Alliance has been the leading advocate for low-income immigrants in Marin County since 1982. Focusing on education and immigration status to improve economic outcomes, we serve 4850 clients annually providing Immigration Legal Services, Youth and Adult Education, Workforce Development, and wraparound Social Services, including case management, healt information, and a food pantry. Our mission is to break the generational cycle of poverty for low-income Latino immigrants and their families by lifting barriers to their success. To extend our impact and address systemic barriers, our advocacy and community engagement efforts support Latino community members to lift their voices and advance safety, opportunity and wellness in their community.

In the coming years, sea level rise will have profound consequences for coastal West Marin. These consequences include threats to shoreline development, natural resources such as wetlands and other habitat areas, and public beaches, all of which support the economic, ecological, and social well-being of our coastal communities. Even now we see the beginnings of these impacts in the form of increasing incidence of flooding, shoreline erosion, and damage from storm surge.

The California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") has long been a cornerstone of environmental oversight in the state, but its rigorous environmental review process often poses an obstacle to housing projects leading to potentially lengthy delays, increased project costs, and potential legal challenges.