Marin is a place people care deeply about, and for good reason. We’re surrounded by natural beauty, strong communities and a spirit of innovation that runs deeper than most people realize. Yet, none of that guarantees our future unless we’re intentional about where we’re headed.

It’s time to set smart, focused priorities reflecting the future we want to build, while being honest about the challenges. Given today’s political climate, we’ll need to think outside the box, do more with less and get comfortable with the unknown. Our next move will define who we are as a county and who we want to be for future generations.

Climate change isn’t theoretical; it’s local. Wildfire season is perpetual. Flooding hits harder. I’ve seen the impacts firsthand, and action isn’t optional — it’s a duty. That means coordinated regional efforts for readiness; defensible space work that is not just encouraged but implemented; and smarter flood mitigation that protects both people and small businesses.

I am committed to executing long-promised restorative projects like Corte Madera Creek Park and the fish ladder. As honorary chair of FireSafe Marin, I’m working to fund and promote adaptive emergency preparedness that actually reaches our residents. Did you know that in some parts of our county, only 25% of people are signed up for emergency alerts via AlertMarin? That’s not just a missed opportunity; that’s a public safety issue.

One of my core beliefs is that infrastructure should work for the people who use it every day. Sir Francis Drake Boulevard, our key arteries and The Hub in San Anselmo are critical focus points that need modern, safe, forward-looking design.

It’s imperative that we future-proof Marin County’s infrastructure by designing systems that can adapt to evolving challenges from climate change, population shifts, transportation barriers or rapid tech evolution. We need to build with our long-term brains, prioritizing flexibility and resilience now so that we’re not constantly playing catch-up. Let’s embrace smart traffic technologies that adapt to evolving commuter patterns, reimagine what a suburban traffic circle looks like, and expand cleaner options like bike-sharing and electric buses.

We also need to modernize local government. Residents shouldn’t feel like they’re chasing down answers or navigating a maze just to get basic services. We need human-centered systems that leverage technology, deliver transparency and embrace innovation. Imagine accessing county services through an intuitive, user-friendly app. Snap a photo of a pothole, submit it and receive real-time updates as it gets flagged, scheduled and repaired.

That kind of responsiveness isn’t futuristic, it’s possible, but we must make it a priority. This level of digital access also increases equity for residents who are homebound, live in rural areas or otherwise can’t get to the Marin County Civic Center. Everyone should be able to engage with their government easily and effectively.

We need real options for housing at every income level, so the people who teach our kids, protect our neighborhoods and work in our main street shops, can afford to live and become woven into our communities. With public-private partnerships and a boldness to challenge the status quo, we can create housing that reflects Marin’s identity without compromising it. The perfect shouldn’t be the enemy of the possible.

As we build, our local economy can thrive. Each town, city, and unincorporated area has its own identity, and preserving that while expanding is both a challenge and an opportunity. As co-lead of the Economic Vitality subcommittee, I intend to create places people want to spend time in — not just pass through. This includes investment in placemaking, celebrating downtown identity, encouraging public-private partnerships and leaning into the Marin ethos: thoughtful, independent, and idealistic. Marin has the social capital to pull it off if we commit to sustained community engagement and audacious thinking.

District 2 has everything it needs to lead the way: talent, passion and a community that cares deeply. We need to stop spinning our wheels on process and start focusing on implementation and results. I’m committed to doing the work, listening closely and pushing for real solutions that improve life for everyone in Marin.

If you’re ready for a local government that leads with clarity, conviction, and common sense, so am I.

Brian Colbert is a member of the Marin County Board of Supervisors. He represents District 2, which includes Fairfax, San Anselmo, Ross, Larkspur, southwest San Rafael, Kentfield, Greenbrae, Oak Manor and Sleepy Hollow.