During the Yolo County Board of Supervisors meeting on April 29, 2025, significant discussions highlighted the pressing need for long-term care services and the importance of supporting care providers in the community. Lorna Schroeder, a long-term care provider and member of SEIU 2015, addressed the board, emphasizing the growing demand for care as the population ages. She referred to the "silver tsunami" of baby boomers who require increased long-term care services, stressing that many individuals in this field are women and people of color who have historically been undervalued.

Schroeder urged the board to recognize the essential work of long-term care providers and to ensure they receive livable wages. Her comments underscored the critical role these workers play in the community, particularly as the need for their services continues to rise. The board's acknowledgment of this issue reflects a broader societal challenge regarding the care economy and the need for equitable compensation for essential workers.

In addition to public comments, the meeting included routine administrative matters, such as the approval of the consent agenda. Supervisor Sheila Villegas took the opportunity to recognize Kim Bridal for her retirement and the contributions of the In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) program. She also highlighted the importance of the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program, which supports vulnerable populations in Yolo County.

The discussions during this meeting not only addressed immediate administrative concerns but also pointed to larger issues regarding the future of care services in Yolo County. As the population ages, the board's decisions will have lasting implications for the community's health and well-being, particularly for those who rely on long-term care services. The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue addressing these vital issues in future sessions.