STOCKTON, CA - San Joaquin County Board of Supervisors Chair Paul Canepa delivered the 2025 State of the County Address on Thursday, celebrating the County’s 175th anniversary and recognizing major achievements in public safety, infrastructure, health, and economic development.

Speaking to a full audience at the University of the Pacific, Chair Canepa reflected on the County’s legacy of resilience and innovation while outlining key investments that will strengthen San Joaquin County for generations to come.

“San Joaquin County has been defined for 175 years by the heart and spirit of a community built on resilience, innovation, and determination,” said Canepa. “Together, we are building systems that adapt to change, supporting programs that serve people directly, and investing in solutions that will last for generations.”

Canepa announced the adoption of a balanced $3 billion budget that fully funds essential services, maintains a five-percent reserve, and invests in core priorities such as public safety, health, and infrastructure.

Among the highlights shared:

• Public Safety & Justice:
  • Fentanyl-related deaths dropped 25 percent through enforcement and education partnerships like “One Pill Can Kill.”
  • The Sheriff’s new Task Force and Jailhouse Investigative Services Unit are targeting organized crime, narcotics, and cybercrime.
  • The District Attorney’s STAART initiative is now a model for other counties in fighting retail theft.
  • The Dorothy J. Heisler Detention and Program Facility and a new County morgue will open this fall, reflecting investments in modern, humane justice facilities.
• Health & Human Services:
  • Construction is underway on the BeWell Campus, a $137 million behavioral health project that will serve residents with care, compassion, and hope.
  • County social workers are using advanced training simulation tools to help seniors live with dignity and independence.
  • The SJCares outreach team engaged with more than 400 unhoused individuals last year, delivering over 750 services directly in the field.
• Economic Development:
  • Agriculture generated $3.2 billion in value, exporting to 90 countries.
  • The Stockton Metropolitan Airport saw growth in passengers, cargo, and new tenants including green technology companies.
  • The Port of Stockton handled over 5.2 million metric tons of cargo, connecting local industries to global markets.
  • A new WorkNet Center in Tracy and eight small business programs served more than 48,000 job seekers countywide.
• Infrastructure & Sustainability:
  • Public Works replaced a 52-foot bridge, maintained 600,000 feet of sewer lines, and cleared 95,000 cubic yards of debris from storm channels.
  • The County is working to combat invasive golden mussels and protect local waterways.
  • A regional groundwater sustainability plan unites 15 agencies to secure water resources through 2040.
• Investing in the Future:
  • The County acquired Oakmoore Golf Course and 400 E. Main Street for long-term operational needs and downtown revitalization.
  • Funding was provided for the Kress Building restoration, housing the Historical Museum and modernized record storage.
  • $1 million was awarded to the University of the Pacific for a business incubator program, and $25,000 supported the Dolly Parton Imagination Library expansion with Read to Me Stockton.

Canepa also spotlighted local initiatives, including lower garbage rates, 21 community clean- ups, and new family-friendly investments at Micke Grove Park.

“This is public safety with purpose, government with accountability, and leadership with compassion,” Canepa said. “San Joaquin County is ready to meet the challenges and opportunities ahead with the same resilience and determination that have defined us for 175 years.”

The 2025 State of the County event also featured department exhibits, local partnerships, and student performances celebrating the County's 175-year history.

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