County Conversations

Mary Jo Flynn, Chief of Emergency Services for Sacramento County, explains the role of the County Office of Emergency Services, how the team prepares for disasters (from flooding and wildfires to cyber and infrastructure incidents), and how they coordinate with state, local and federal partners.The episode offers practical advice for residents: sign up for Sacramento Alert, gather essential supplies and information, and review your flood and homeowner/renter insurance to manage financial risk.

In this episode of "County Conversations," host Kim Nava interviews Rosa Vega, the Sacramento County Coroner, to discuss the vital and often misunderstood role her office plays in the community. A key highlight of the conversation is the independence of the Sacramento County Coroner’s office. While 48 out of 58 California counties operate under a "sheriff-coroner" model, Sacramento is one of only four counties with an independent system. This independence ensures that death investigations are thorough and unbiased, remaining separate from the influence of law enforcement or the District Attorney.

Join host Kim Nave as she talks with Sacramento County Public Defender, Amanda Benson, who explains the essential role of public defenders in upholding due process and safeguarding the integrity of the justice system by ensuring legal counsel for everyone, regardless of wealth. Benson emphasizes that public defenders are highly skilled and dedicated attorneys addressing the need to view clients as human beings often shaped by factors like poverty and mental illness, rather than just their charges. 

Tune in to the latest episode of County Conversations and discover the groundbreaking work happening at Sacramento County Emergency Medical Services (EMS).
Join host Kim Nava as she speaks with Dr. Gregory Kann, Medical Director for Sacramento County EMS, to learn about innovative initiatives revolutionizing emergency care in the region.  Dr. Kann discusses the agency's mission to provide world-class prehospital healthcare efficiently and effectively.

Ann​ette Bedsworth is the Director of Sacramento County's Animal Care Services. Annette began in her role as director in January 2022. Bedsworth has more than 30 years of public service, including more than 20 years in management and director level positions. Before she came to the County, Bedsworth served as the Executive Director for Animal Services for Stanislaus County since 2008. 
In this conversation, Annette talks about the challenges the shelter faces in terms of operations and animal care; how members of the community can be involved in supporting the shelter through volunteering, fostering kittens or donating; and advice for anyone considering adopting a pet.

Kim Nava sits down with Shelby Boston, the director of the Department of Child, Family, and Adult Services (DCFAS). The interview covers Shelby's background and path to social work,  including her experiences growing up and her  accidental entry into the field, and then proceeds to a discussion of the different types of social workers within the department and the  challenges they face, especially regarding  under-resourcing and client autonomy.