title
Approve the reappointment of Nicole Arocha to the Solano County Child Care Planning Council for the term of August 6, 2026 - August 5, 2028; and Approve the appointment of Susan Miller to the Solano County Child Care Planning Council for the term of October 27, 2026 - October 26, 2028
body
Published Notice Required? Yes ____ No _X _
Public Hearing Required? Yes ____ No _X _
DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION:
First 5 Solano recommends the Board of Supervisors:
1. Approve the reappointment of Nicole Arocha to the Solano County Child Care Planning Council for the term of August 6, 2026 - August 5, 2028; and
2. Approve the appointment of Susan Miller to the Solano County Child Care Planning Council for the term of October 27, 2026 - October 26, 2028.
SUMMARY/DISCUSSION:
Welfare and Institution code §10485 requires the Board of Supervisors and the County Superintendent of Schools to appoint the Child Care Planning Council’s (CCPC’s) membership. One half of the members are appointed by the Superintendent of Schools and the other half are appointed by the Board of Supervisors; the one additional member is appointed by concurrence. State law also requires that CCPC membership be distributed as follows: 20% consumers of child care services, 20% child care providers, 20% community representatives, 20% public agency representatives, and the remaining 20% from any of the above categories at the discretion of the Board and Superintendent of Schools.
Nicole Arocha has served on the Council in the category of child care provider since August 2024 and would continue to bring her experience as a Child Start, Inc., Regional Program Manager. Ms. Arocha has worked for Child Start for 20 years, providing leadership to Center Directors and field staff comprised of teachers, caregivers, and family advocates with responsibility for ensuring a comprehensive, developmentally appropriate Head Start program for families and children of diverse backgrounds. Ms. Arocha is also a trauma-informed lead for her organization, which lends a unique perspective as it relates to supporting children and families in our community.
Susan Miller would serve on the Council in the category of child care provider and would bring her experience as the Chief Programs Officer for Child Start, Inc. Ms. Miller brings extensive experience in early childhood programs and supporting children and families, including those in Solano County. She has collaborated with families, early childhood professionals, community partners, school districts, and health and mental health providers. Her leadership includes health, nutrition, mental health, and family and community engagement. She understands the importance of listening to diverse perspectives, identifying community needs, and developing collaborative solutions. She would bring strong program knowledge, leadership, family engagement, partnership-building, and data-informed planning skills while contributing to efforts that strengthen early learning opportunities and resources for children and families.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
There is no financial impact associated with the appointment of CCPC members.
ALTERNATIVES:
The Board may choose not to appoint the applicants mentioned above. This is not recommended as the applicants have demonstrated an interest in providing their experience and expertise with the CCPC to ensure that quality childcare is available throughout Solano County.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
The Solano County Superintendent of Schools has reviewed the applications and recommends the reappointment of Nicole Arocha and appointment of Susan Miller to the CCPC.
CAO RECOMMENDATION:
APPROVE DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION