One Voice

One Voice is a federal advocacy program comprised of elected officials, and staff who travel to Washington, D.C. annually to meet with legislators and agency staff to advocate for projects and issues of regional significance. 

The goals of the program are to:

  • Communicate the region’s legislative priorities clearly and succinctly.
  • Obtain more federal funding for local projects.
  • Advocate for legislation or policy changes that will benefit Merced County.
  • Support our legislators by meeting with their peers and garnering wider support for projects and issues relevant to the Merced County region.
costa photo 3

2023 PROGRAM 

2023 MEETINGS 
March 20, 2023Agenda
April 20, 2023 Agenda
April 27, 2023 Agenda
May 4, 2023 Agenda


Previous Program

The One Voice trip to Washington, D.C. program includes meetings with federal legislators, staff, agencies and other stakeholders to discuss Merced County's projects and priority issues in the areas of transportation, economic development, water, education and homelessness. The delegation includes representatives from local jurisdictions, private industry, education and staff.

2020 PLATFORM

The 2020 One Voice program and trip were cancelled due to COVID-19 restrictions. 

2017 Platform

Group of government officials in a court room
Group of government officials seated around a large table

2016 Platform

2015 Platform

2014 Platform

Past Successes

From 2004 to 2010, our congressional representatives requested appropriations on our behalf. Through this process, we had great success in securing over $5 million for projects and programs for the Merced County region in transportation, economic development, healthcare, water, and education. To find out more information, read a list of One Voice achievements (PDF). Congress eliminated "earmarks" in 2010.