Photo courtesy of the County of Ventura.
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VENTURA — On Monday, June 15, during the County’s annual budget hearing, the Ventura County Board of Supervisors approved a $3.41 billion balanced budget for fiscal year 2026-2027. Built on a strong financial foundation, the budget maintains essential services while continuing investments in programs and projects that strengthen communities and improve quality of life for residents throughout Ventura County.
Developed with a focus on long-term fiscal stability and continued service to residents, the budget reflects the County’s commitment to responsible stewardship while navigating an evolving state and federal funding landscape. The balanced budget was developed while accounting for significant legislative and funding changes affecting local governments, including healthcare workforce mandates and behavioral health reforms. The budget supports continued progress in areas including housing and homelessness solutions, behavioral health services, healthcare access, public safety, emergency preparedness, and infrastructure improvements.
“The adoption of this budget reflects our commitment to responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars while continuing to invest in the services Ventura County residents rely on every day,” stated Chair of the Board Jeff Gorell. “This balanced budget maintains our strong fiscal foundation, supports public safety, infrastructure, health and human services, and positions our county to meet both current needs and future challenges. At a time when changes in state and federal funding are creating new challenges for counties across California, Ventura County remains focused on fiscal discipline, strategic planning, and delivering high-quality services to our residents.”
The budget represents an increase of $186 million, or 5.8%, from the prior year and includes $1.54 billion in General Fund appropriations. Countywide staffing levels remain at approximately 10,456 positions, supporting the delivery of services residents rely on every day.
“This budget reflects the County’s commitment to both fiscal discipline and strategic investment,” said Dr. Sevet Johnson, County Executive Officer. “We’re looking at operations; we’re looking at efficiencies and making real data driven decisions about what we are going to do next. We have to be extremely strategic and thoughtful in order to maintain our general fund so we can provide the core critical services that we are mandated to as a County. By carefully managing resources and planning for future challenges, we are able to sustain critical services while continuing to make meaningful progress on the priorities identified by the Board of Supervisors and our community.”
The County’s disciplined financial management has enabled continued investments in initiatives that strengthen communities and improve quality of life throughout Ventura County. Building on recent accomplishments, the budget supports continued implementation of the County’s Strategic Plan and ongoing investments in permanent supportive housing, behavioral health infrastructure, disaster preparedness, capital improvements, and programs that expand access to services and strengthen communities throughout Ventura County.
Key areas of focus in the FY 2026-2027 budget include:
- Housing and Homelessness Solutions: Continued investment in affordable and supportive housing developments, housing assistance programs, and partnerships that expand housing opportunities and support individuals and families experiencing homelessness. Investments include development of the Lewis Road Homekey+ project in unincorporate Camarillo and other supportive housing initiatives designed to provide long-term housing stability and access to services.
- Behavioral Health and Healthcare: Ongoing support for behavioral health treatment, crisis services, substance use programs, public health initiatives, and healthcare services. Funding supports development of the Mental Health Rehabilitation Center, Psychiatric Health Facility, and Crisis Stabilization Unit located in east Ventura County, expanding access to behavioral health care and treatment services for residents.
- Emergency Preparedness and Public Safety: Continued investment in emergency response capabilities, wildfire preparedness, disaster recovery efforts, and public safety communications. The budget also supports the establishment of the East County Family Justice Center, which will provide coordinated services and support for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, elder abuse, and other crimes.
- Infrastructure and Community Improvements: Funding for capital projects, community facilities, parks, libraries, and other infrastructure investments that enhance public services and strengthen community resilience. Investments include development of the Nyeland Community Center, creating new opportunities for recreation, services, and community engagement in the Oxnard Plain region.
- Economic Vitality and Community Well-Being: Support for programs that promote workforce development, environmental sustainability, and economic opportunity. The budget also includes continued investments in improvements to community recreational assets such as Saticoy Park, enhancing recreational opportunities, expanding active transportation options, and creating greater access to outdoor spaces that support health, wellness, and community connection.
“The FY 2026-2027 budget positions the County to continue delivering high-quality services while remaining responsive to future fiscal and economic challenges,” said Scott Powers, Chief Financial Officer. “Our focus remains on maintaining long-term financial stability, preserving essential services, and ensuring the County remains well-positioned to respond to future fiscal and legislative challenges.”
The budget preserves key financial reserves that help the County respond to emergencies, economic fluctuations, and future service demands. To learn more about the County of Ventura’s programs and services, please visit: venturacounty.gov