There is no need to have yet another layer of government in the Bay Area.

The folks that want to form the JPA
were elected in their individual cities not to regional office.
We already have county, state district and state level electeds representing us !

*Writing in personal, unofficial capacity*, I am grateful to City Counsel for both taking the time to consider this, and for ultimately deciding to agree with Mountain View that participation in a JPA is helpful to residents and small businesses.

Although some may say that a joint powers association would create "more bureaucracy," the truth is that it would create far more efficiency. From the point of view of a county-wide district (**writing in my personal, unofficial capacity**), it would be extremely helpful to be able to work with a collective organization in order to help facilitate conversations about local government decisions that impact, for example, a water district's ability to deliver clean water affordably and to mitigate risks of harm caused by climate events, such as flooding.

For example, zoning policies that enable or prohibit development directly adjacent to creeks and other waterways directly impacts a water district's ability to mitigate harms from flooding. Development too close to creeks and waterways often unavoidably interferes with a waterway's natural flow and movement pattern, and it can inhibit proven methods of mitigation and protection -- especially the protection & restoration of riparian habitat, which generally provides more lasting protection than any concrete wall or barrier. It is usually cities and towns in charge of zoning & development rules - which often impact flood protection and water prices. If a water district could work collaboratively with an umbrella organization, it could help cities and towns decide on solutions that work best for their communities--while also enabling cities and towns to share research, experiences, perspectives, and information with each other to make decisions more efficiently.

In fact, being able to share costs, knowledge and data with each other could in general save time and money for cities and towns as they make decisions that are best for their communities.

So, I, without knowing the specific marching orders of this JPA, (and in my personal capacity) think it is a great idea and could be very beneficial for communities and residents if done well.

What are the county supervisors for??? Why another tax payer funded bureaucracy? If the cities think county supervisors have not done their job, or needs redistricting, adding more headcounts, whatever, let us tax payers know.

This is just another cushy outlet for termed-out city council members to rest while planning for their next political ambitions.

Cities, not counties, handle zoning and many other municipality-specific matters. Unless you want all Palo Alto matters decided by the County govt, which is 1/2 San Jose?