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VENTURA — On Tuesday, June 9, during their regular meeting, the Ventura County Board of Supervisors approved the donation of a Getinge 733LS-E sterilizer and reverse osmosis water system from the Ventura County Public Health Department to California State University Channel Islands. The donated equipment was originally purchased in 2021 to support operations at the Ventura County Public Health Laboratory. Following a recent laboratory remodel, Public Health installed a newer sterilizer designed to fit the updated laboratory layout and workflow. As a result, the original equipment is no longer needed for County operations and will be used by CSU Channel Island’s Biology Department for teaching, training, and research activities.
“This donation reflects our commitment to being responsible stewards of public resources while creating new opportunities for students and researchers,” said Board Chair Jeff Gorell. “We’re pleased that this equipment will continue serving the community through education, training, and scientific discovery at CSU Channel Islands”.
The sterilizer and reverse osmosis system are important pieces of equipment that support laboratory research, testing, and educational activities. These systems help laboratories maintain safe and reliable working environments for scientific work. By donating the equipment to CSU Channel Islands, the County is giving students and researchers access to valuable tools that will strengthen hands-on learning, support scientific research, and help prepare the next generation of public health and science professionals.
“This donation reflects our commitment to strengthening the health and scientific capacity of our community,” stated Rigo Vargas, Public Health Director. “By placing the sterilization and reverse osmosis system equipment into the hands of CSU Channel Islands students and faculty, we’re helping expand the region’s future health and research workforce. We’re proud to support a local university that plays such an important role in preparing tomorrow’s leaders in science and health.”
County officials noted that the donation aligns with established County asset-management practices and supports broader community goals. The transfer will help reduce ongoing storage and depreciation costs while creating educational opportunities that benefit the region, as well as support the County’s Strategic Plan priority of building healthy, safe, and resilient communities.
The County will complete all required transfer and asset-disposition procedures as part of the donation process.
To learn more about the programs and services provided by the Ventura County Public Health Department, visit hca.venturacounty.gov/public-health