Bilingual report — The latest news from the County of Ventura

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On Tuesday, November 18, the Ventura County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to pass a new local ordinance that will ban overnight parking and camping on certain roads next to farmland in County unincorporated areas. The goal is to protect local agriculture and the environment, while also ensuring public safety. The new ordinance, which was approved during the regular meeting for the Board of Supervisors, goes into effect January 1, 2026.

Following concerns about the impact of individuals camping in vehicles along unincorporated farmlands, the ordinance was drafted through collaboration with various County agencies to provide increased protection for local crop cultivation while finding sensible solutions to the issue of overnight vehicle parking.

Those who park or camp overnight in restricted areas will first receive a written notice to move within 24 hours. Continued violations may result in fines of up to $1,000 or other legal consequences.

Ventura County Public Health unveiled its new laboratory last week, marking an important step forward in strengthening the County’s diagnostic and environmental testing capabilities. The VCPH Laboratory plays a vital role in protecting community health by performing specialized testing for infectious diseases, food borne illnesses, and ensuring the safety of drinking and recreational water.

The renovation brings a more efficient layout, updated safety features, and new state-of-the-art equipment that expands testing capacity and supports faster response during public health events.

The Ventura County Harbor Department and Harbor & Beach Community Alliance (HBCA) are teaming up to spread holiday cheer this season by hosting the 6th Annual Holiday Food & Toy Drive from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on December 6, 2025 at the Harbor Landing parking lot off Harbor Blvd.

The Holiday Food & Toy Drive will benefit Food Share of Ventura County and the Spark of Love Toy Drive, an annual effort coordinated by local fire departments which provide toys to thousands of children each year.

On the day of the event, donations will be accepted at a drop-off location at the Harbor Landing parking lot, located at the Channel Islands Boulevard and Harbor Boulevard intersection. Volunteers will be there to safely accept the donations and provide them to Food Share and the Spark of Love Toy Drive.

Boaters are invited to take part in the Channel Islands Harbor’s 59th Annual Parade of Lights, returning this year with the festive theme Rudolph’s Rock N’ Roll Regatta. Participants can showcase their creativity by highlighting any era of rock whether it’s Elvis and the classics, like The Beatles and Queen, or modern-day favorites.

The parade will light up the harbor at 7 p.m. on Saturday, December 13, 2025.

Those interested in joining the lineup can download the entry form and submit registration materials by

4 p.m. on Saturday, December 13.

Bring your furry family members to the Camarillo Animal Shelter on Saturday, December 6, 2025, for a professional holiday portrait with Santa Claus himself! Whether you show up in matching pajamas, festive sweaters, or your pet’s cutest holiday outfit, this is your chance to capture a merry and bright keepsake.

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, December 6, 2025
• Time: 10:00am–12:00pm (first 50 groups)
• Location: Camarillo Animal Shelter, 600 Aviation Drive
• Cost: $30 donation

To help keep the event safe and joyful for everyone:

• All pets must be on-leash or in carriers
• Pets should be healthy, fully vaccinated, and comfortable around people and other animals
• Please arrive before noon as portraits are not guaranteed for late arrivals

Thank you for supporting Ventura County Animal Services!

County of Ventura administrative offices will be closed Thursday, November 27 and Friday, November 28 in observance of Thanksgiving. County offices will reopen Monday, December 1, 2025.

Wishing you and yours a happy Thanksgiving!

Public Information Office

countypio@ventura.org

800 S. Victoria Ave.

Ventura, CA 93009