First 5 - 8/10/26

The meeting focused on long-term fiscal stability, community leadership, and specialized services for young children.

Fiscal Management and Budget:

• Budget Approval: The Commission approved the FY 2026-27 Revised Recommended Budget and 10-Year Financial Plan. While no significant changes were made to the expenditure plan, staff noted that Prop 10 revenues came in $1 million lower than anticipated, signaling ongoing volatility.
• Strategic "Pause": To protect current programs and shore up reserves (which are projected to dip near a $3 million threshold), the Commission approved a temporary pause on procurement for new $1.5 million Family Enrichment contracts.
• Home Visiting Expansion: The Commission approved an additional $1.3 million in CalWORKS Home Visiting funds, which will boost support for the "Birth and BEYOND" resource centers and nurse-family partnerships.

Program Highlights and Recognitions:

• Developmental Playgroups: UC Davis MIND Institute presented on its "Developmental Playgroups," which use a "Pivotal Response" framework to support children with autism and other developmental differences. The program specifically targets families in inclusive settings like public libraries to reduce the stigma often associated with specialized clinics.
• Parent Leadership: The Parent Leadership Training Institute (PLTI) reported a successful year, including new Spanish-language cohorts and the introduction of a male facilitator for the first time.
• Retirement of Dave Gordon: The Commission issued a formal proclamation recognizing long-time Commissioner Dave Gordon for his 22 years of "thoughtful leadership" and advocacy for the mental health and well-being of young children.

Administrative Actions:

• The Commission updated its stipend policy, establishing a new category for college interns at a rate of $22 per hour to differentiate their professional development roles from general community volunteers.

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