$14.35 Million Fine Sticks For PG&E For Pipeline Record-Keeping

"'No harm, no foul' may work in the schoolyard, but it is no principle for the maintenance of public safety" in wake of San Bruno.

Affordable Housing Laws Stand, State High Court Rules

Scarcity of affordable homes reaching "epic proportions," chief justice writes. CA Building Industry Assn. had challenged ordinance.

Only One Bay Area U.S. Rep Supports Stalled Trade Bill

Ten Bay Area U.S. representatives voted against the bill that addresses agreements with European Union and Pacific Rim.

BART Directors Approve Budget Aimed at Improving Service

Added trips and cleaner cars will increase speed and comfort.

On 'Spaceship Earth' We Need 'Elegant' Conservation, Says Governor

Technology and lifestyle changes will get California through the drought and into a post-global warming era, the governor said this week.

Water Bills Going Up: EBMUD OKs Temporary 25 Percent Drought Surcharge

An additional permanent 8 percent rate increase will mostly fund infrastructure replacements.

Mandatory Vaccine Bill Passes CA Assembly Committee

Hundreds of opponents attended the hearing, and held a rally on the capitol steps.

Contra Costa Water District Approves Tighter Usage Restrictions, Fines

There is now a charge for households that use more than 200 gallons per day on average.

President Jerry Brown? Effort Afoot to Establish California's Nationhood

Citing California's economic might and progressivism, initiative backers want the state to achieve nationhood ... or something close to it.

'Intolerant Jackass Act' Can Begin Collecting Signatures In CA

The state ballot initiative is a response to the controversial "Sodomite Suppression Act." Would you be inclined to sign either one?

AC Transit Wants Your Two Cents On New GM

An online survey seeks public input on the Alameda-Contra Costa Transit priorities.

14 Unlicensed Contractors Cited In Contra Costa County Sting

If a job is more than $500 in labor and materials, the person you hire must be licensed.

Heading For Divorce In Contra Costa County? Do-It-Yourself Resources Available

The Contra Costa Public Law Library has books, plus upcoming workshops, to help.

Know Any Pleasant Hill Environmental Trailblazers? Nominate The Person, Group Or Business

The Governor’s Environmental and Economic Leadership Awards are now open for applications.

Deadline Approaching for IRS Grants

The grants are for organizations that help the elderly and poor prepare their taxes.

Pleasant Hill: Prepare for 2017 Social Security Cuts

As the Social Security retirement age increases, other cuts are taking place that could seriously impact your lifetime benefit.

Are You Enjoying Smoother Bike Rides Around Pleasant Hill, Contra Costa? Here's Why ...

Measure J funds, coupled with federal funding, has allowed for numerous bicycle and pedestrian improvements. See the list ...

Recall Petition Rejected; Resubmitted

Outraged opponents are trying to recall Supervisor Karen Mitchoff after she voted for a 33 percent pay raise for herself.

Massive Recall Aims to Fix Airbag Flaw Linked to Traffic Deaths

Is your vehicle on the recall list? 33.8 million included for a flaw in air bags linked to a half dozen deaths, more than 100 injuries.

BART Officials Investigating Rail Problem That Caused Massive Commuter Delays May 6

A report in September noted a track defect, however BART's analysis still is underway.

Pleasant Hill Parents: Vaccine Bill Passes California Senate

The bill was introduced in response to the measles outbreak.

Handling Campus Sex Assaults: CA Attorney General Issues New Guidelines

An estimated 1 in 5 undergrads are victims at some point, and now universities will coordinate investigations with local law enforcement.

Did BART Staff Violate Conduct Code In Senate Race?

Early findings say yes.

New Highway First Responders App Should Shorten Highway Closures

Every minute saved in clearing a highway incident saves an estimated four minutes in traffic delays, officials said.

Coast Guard Cutter Decommissioned, Transferred to Bangladesh Navy

US crewmembers will advise and assist crewmembers from Bangladesh as they prepare to take the boat to their country.

Two More Earthquakes Strike Contra Costa County

The earthquake swarm that began Sunday continued Wednesday, with two more quakes reported.

Water Diversion Plan Shrinks Delta Recovery Promise

The governor announces that ambitious tunnel project is on, but the proposed area of delta to be restored has shrunk by more than half.

California Sets Aggressive New Greenhouse Reduction Target

Gov. Jerry Brown's executive order calls for California to reduce greenhouse gases to 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030.

$10,000 Fines For Water Wasters? Governor Proposes Drastic Measures Amid Drought

“These measures will strengthen the ability of local officials to build new water projects and ensure that water is not wasted,” Brown said.

Start Of Summer 'Spare The Air' Highlights Commuting Alternatives

Should you rethink how you get to work and around town? Are transit or biking options?

Flying High: Oakland Airport Passenger Traffic Spikes

Taking a trip? You're not alone. More passengers are choosing Oakland International Airport.

BART Announces New Suicide Intervention Campaign

The campaign’s stated centerpiece will be signage saying “suicide is not the route."

2015 Tax Deadline, Extension Info for Pleasant Hill Residents

Plus, find out what post offices are open late on tax day or how you can go about the electronic filing of your return.

Stage 4 Drought Emergency: Outdoor Water Restrictions Take Effect Immediately

“Going forward, it will cost you more for less (water).” A 25 percent surcharge starts July 1.

NTSB Blames Deaths of 2 Workers on BART Policy

The train was traveling 68 mph toward the Pleasant Hill station when the operator spotted the workers on the track.

Did You Feel It? Small Earthquake Jiggles Contra Costa County

The USGS recorded the quake at 11:32 a.m.

State Attorney General Warns of Immigration Scams During Tax Season

Only licensed attorneys and representatives accredited by the Board of Immigration Appeals can give legal advice regarding immigration.

EBMUD Expected to Declare Stage 4 Drought Emergency Tuesday

Sweeping action will include across the board rate hike, including staggering increases and fines for the biggest users.

Next 10's "California Budget Challenge" Turns 10

Take Next 10's online California Budget Challenge and decide what policy choices you think are best for the state’s future.

How to File an Extension and Other Last Minute Tax Filing Tips for Pleasant Hill Taxpayers

Calling all procrastinators! The IRS has some advice for you if you haven’t filed your taxes yet this year.