California Senate honors legacy of Federal Glover Contra Costa County leader

The California State Senate convened on July 7, 2025, to honor the legacy of Federal Glover, a prominent leader in Contra Costa County who passed away on May 18 at the age of 69. Glover, who served as a county supervisor for over two decades, was remembered for his significant contributions to public service, community empowerment, and transportation initiatives.

Senator Grayson led the tribute, highlighting Glover's early leadership roles, including his time as student body president at Pittsburgh High School and his involvement in President Reagan's statewide youth commission. After earning a degree in business administration from San Francisco State University, Glover dedicated his career to workplace safety and employee training, working with companies like USS Posco and Dow Chemical.

Glover's political career began with his election to the Pittsburgh City Council in 1996, followed by his historic election as the first African American to the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors in 2000. His tenure was marked by securing over $1 billion in funding for critical transportation projects, including the expansion of Highway 4 and the E BART extension, which greatly enhanced regional mobility.

His commitment to youth empowerment was evident through initiatives like the Contra Costa youth summit and gang task force, which provided mentorship and support to young residents. Glover was also a strong advocate for affordable housing, equitable healthcare access, and environmental justice, leading to the establishment of the county's office of racial equity and social justice.

Senator Arteghini and other colleagues joined in honoring Glover's legacy, emphasizing his dedication to racial and economic justice, as well as his impactful work on the Metropolitan Transportation Commission. They noted his efforts to address environmental injustices in communities affected by the refinery industry and his role in creating a new African American health center in his name.

The Senate concluded the session by recognizing Glover's profound impact on Contra Costa County and the state of California, reflecting on his decades of service that focused on the needs of historically overlooked communities. The meeting served as a poignant reminder of Glover's commitment to public service and the lasting legacy he leaves behind.