Contra Costa County Seeks Planning Commission Applicants

Four-year term on influential county planning board opens up

Apr. 15, 2026 at 9:30pm

A serene, nostalgic painting of a government building or public meeting space, with warm sunlight and deep shadows creating a contemplative mood around the structure.The Contra Costa County Planning Commission plays a pivotal role in guiding the region's development, with its decisions shaping the future of local communities.Martinez Today

The Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors is seeking applicants interested in serving a four-year term on the county's Planning Commission, which is responsible for hearing and deciding on major development projects, advising the Board on planning matters, and overseeing subdivisions and development agreements.

Why it matters

The Planning Commission plays a crucial role in shaping the future growth and development of Contra Costa County, making decisions that can significantly impact local communities. Serving on the commission provides an opportunity to be involved in important land use planning and policy decisions.

The details

The Planning Commission generally meets twice a month in Martinez to hear and decide on applications for proposed projects that generate more than 100 peak hour trips, as well as appeals from decisions of the zoning administrator. The commission also advises the Board of Supervisors on planning matters, oversees subdivisions, and reviews proposed development agreements.

  • The appointment will be for a full four-year term beginning July 1, 2026, and ending June 30, 2030.
  • Application forms must be submitted to the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors by 5 p.m. on Friday, May 8, 2026.
  • Applicant interviews will be held virtually via Zoom on Tuesday, May 26, 2026.

The players

Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors

The governing body of Contra Costa County, responsible for appointing members to the Planning Commission.

Contra Costa County Planning Commission

The county's planning board, which is responsible for hearing and deciding on major development projects, advising the Board of Supervisors on planning matters, and overseeing subdivisions and development agreements.

Diana Oyler

The Senior Deputy County Administrator for Contra Costa County, who is providing information about the open Planning Commission position.

Hiliana Li

An employee of the Contra Costa County Department of Conservation and Development, who can be contacted for more information about the Planning Commission.

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What they’re saying

“Help build a great community!”

— Diana Oyler, Senior Deputy County Administrator

What’s next

Interested applicants must submit their application forms to the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors by 5 p.m. on Friday, May 8, 2026. Applicants will then be interviewed virtually via Zoom on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, before the Board of Supervisors makes its selection.

The takeaway

Serving on the Contra Costa County Planning Commission is an opportunity for residents to play a direct role in shaping the future development and growth of their communities. The commission's decisions can have a significant impact on local land use, transportation, and quality of life issues.