Category: Finance

San Luis Obispo County releases Assessor’s Annual Report

by Community Contributor • November 5, 2025 • Comments Off

SAN LUIS OBISPO — It is my pleasure to present the 2025-26 Assessor’s Office Annual Report. This report contains information based upon the assessment roll produced by my office each year in accordance with state law and regulations. All properties identified and valued as part of the assessment roll serve as the basis for local property taxes.

The annual assessment roll captures the changes in value for all properties during the prior year. For 2025-26, San Luis Obispo County experienced a moderate increase in values of 4.74%.

This increase is fairly consistent with the average increase of 4.62% across the 58 California counties.

Time is running out to get your tickets for Port Hueneme’s Casa De Vida 20th anniversary fundraising dinner on Nov. 8

by Community Contributor • November 3, 2025 • Comments Off

Just Days Away — Celebrate 20 Years of Hope!” Time is running out to be part of this special evening! Join us Saturday for Casa De Vida’s 20th Anniversary Dinner & Silent Auction at Ventura Missionary Church. Your support helps…

Ventura County Neighbors Support Fund matching opportunity announced

by Community Contributor • October 31, 2025 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — Momentum is building with the announcement of a new matching opportunity for the Ventura County Neighbors Support Fund, a community-wide effort to support local families and small businesses experiencing sudden hardship and disruption. Through the generosity of the Brokaw Family Fund, donations up to a total of $50,000 will be matched, doubling impact for this vital humanitarian effort that offers a coordinated and trusted way for residents to step up and support one another.

“The Brokaw Family Fund normally focuses on bettering the lives of farm workers but now all our immigrant neighbors are threatened,” said Ellen Brokaw. “Non-profits are overwhelmed with requests from families for life-sustaining help. We hope this challenge will inspire others to contribute whatever they can to help all our neighbors in need.”

Gold Coast Health Plan appoints new chief operating officer

by Community Contributor • October 31, 2025 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP) today announced the appointment of Suma Simcoe as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO), effective Oct. 15.

“Suma brings a wealth of operational expertise, deep understanding of managed care, and a proven record of turning complex challenges into sustainable results,” said Dr. Felix Nuñez, GCHP’s chief executive officer. “Her leadership will help strengthen our infrastructure and ensure we continue to deliver high-quality, member-centered care for Ventura County. We are thrilled to welcome her to the team.”

Ventura County Civic Alliance announces 2025 State of the Region panelist for Nov. 10 event

by Community Contributor • October 29, 2025 • Comments Off

Come hear our outstanding panelists share their insights on the data in the 2025 State of the Region Report and offer their perspectives on the future of Ventura County.

Bilingual report — Ventura Police volunteers to begin proactive scans for credit card skimming devices

by Community Contributor • October 28, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Ventura Police Department is expanding its crime prevention efforts by launching a new initiative that empowers Volunteers in Policing (VIPs) to conduct routine inspections for illegal credit card skimming devices at gas stations throughout the city.

Using specialized handheld Skim Scan devices, trained volunteers will help safeguard residents from electronic theft by checking fuel pumps and other unattended card readers for hidden hardware designed to steal payment information.

California Student Aid Commission launches the 2026-27 Statewide Financial Aid Cycle at Ventura College

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The California Student Aid Commission (CSAC), in partnership with Ventura College and the Ventura College Foundation, kicked off the 2026-27 Statewide Financial Aid Application Cycle at a press conference held on Oct. 1. This event held at Ventura College highlighted the critical role financial aid plays in allowing access and equity for students pursuing higher education across California.

“We chose to launch the 2026-27 financial aid cycle in Ventura because there is something special here,” said Dr. Daisy Gonzales, Executive Director of the California Student Aid Commission. “From being able to support a student to pursue their college dreams, to understanding that financial aid is critical to help students stay enrolled, Ventura has the opportunity to continue its growth in completed financial aid applications while supporting students through their higher education journey.”

Santa Barbara County Food Action Network (SBCFAN) — Join Our Monthly Giving Challenge – Every Dollar Counts!

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2025 • Comments Off

Right now, our Central Coast faces a critical task:
we must strengthen our own community resilience and adaptation because our larger government, health, environmental, and economic systems are increasingly unpredictable.

At Santa Barbara County Food Action Network (SBCFAN), we know that when food is produced and purchased locally, our entire community benefits. Farmers, ranchers, and fisherfolk keep their livelihoods, we reduce transportation-caused pollution, and local dollars stay in our community.

But this shift cannot wait. The challenges of climate change, rising costs, poor health, and inequitable access to food are already here. Our community needs action now.

That’s why we’re asking you to join us as a monthly donor.
Your consistent support helps us:

Legacies of Hope Dinner lights a candle for People Helping People

by Community Contributor • October 23, 2025 • Comments Off

LOS OLIVOS — The Legacies of Hope dinner, was an evening of storytelling and community, gathering many of People Helping People’s most dedicated supporters to the Inn at Mattei’s Tavern in Los Olivos on October 17, 2025.

The highlight of the evening was the presentation of this year’s Luminary Awards, for those who have given in extraordinary ways to support the mission of People Helping People (PHP).

This year’s recipients are the Becky Barieau and Billy Wathen Family, Feed the Valley with Chef Daisy and Greg Ryan, and the Brady Family.

County of Ventura Supervisor Jeff Gorell — County of Ventura takes position opposing Zone Zero and Fire Risk Maps one-size-fits-all approach by State of California

by Community Contributor • October 21, 2025 • Comments Off

“Ventura County supports stronger wildfire safety measures,” said Supervisor Jeff Gorell. “But Sacramento’s one-size-fits-all approach to maps and regulations ignores local realities. Without clear funding, local flexibility, or practical timelines, these rules risk creating another unfunded mandate that burdens homeowners and drives up insurance and housing costs.”

Ventura Housing invites Ventura County artists to create public art for new affordable housing community

by Community Contributor • October 21, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Ventura Housing is inviting Ventura County artists to help bring beauty and meaning to its affordable housing community, Valentine Road Apartments.

As part of its commitment to integrating art into community spaces, Ventura Housing seeks artworks that inspire, uplift, and reflect the voices of residents. This project reflects Ventura Housing’s belief that art is an essential part of what makes a home. By bringing creativity and color into shared spaces, the Valentine Road public art initiative aims to spark pride, connection, and healing among residents.

LEAP — Community Raises 21,419 diapers for Local Diaper Bank

by Community Contributor • October 20, 2025 • Comments Off

“LEAP has always believed that when we bring people together, we can solve big challenges. The diaper drives are proof—students, businesses, churches, and organizations all stepped up. Each diaper collected represents relief for a caregiver and comfort for a child, and we are grateful to everyone who made that possible,” said Lori Goodman, CEO of LEAP.

Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) celebrates National Give to Women & Girls Day by honoring Gwyn Lurie and WEV’s League of Extraordinary Women

by Community Contributor • October 20, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Women’s Economic Ventures (WEV) honored National Give to Women & Girls Day on Oct. 7 by celebrating its annual donors, members of the organization’s League of Extraordinary Women, at a luncheon at the Santa Barbara Club. The event brought together community leaders, entrepreneurs, and philanthropists united in the mission to strengthen women’s economic power.

Santa Barbara community invited to sign petition by Oct. 21 for a ‘Balanced, Flexible Design for a Thriving State Street’

by Community Contributor • October 17, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Join the Downtown Santa Barbara Improvement Association (DSBIA) in advancing a Balanced, Flexible Design for a Thriving State Street!

The community is invited to sign the petition before the council meeting on Oct. 21.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) October/November free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • October 16, 2025 • Comments Off

IN-PERSON EVENT: HOLIDAY MARKETING MADE SIMPLE!

October 23 @ 8:30 am

Join SCORE Ventura County, City of Agoura Hills and Economic Development Collaborative at the Holiday Marketing Made Simple in-person event! The holiday season is the most significant sales opportunity of the year, but without a plan, it can quickly become overwhelming. From social media to printing and email campaigns, the right strategy can help you stand out, attract more customers and boost sales during the busiest shopping months. In this practical and action-focused workshop, we will guide you step by step on how to create a simple holiday marketing plan that saves time and drives results. You’ll walk away with clear strategies to keep your promotions organized, stress-free, and effective, so you can make this your most successful holiday season yet. Address: Agoura Hills Recreation and Event Center, 29900 Ladyface Ct., Agoura Hills, CA 91301.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Bilingual report — 805UndocuFund Fall 2025 Newsletter

by Community Contributor • October 15, 2025 • Comments Off

We hope this newsletter finds you well and safe. We are pleased to share with you our latest updates on the 805UndocuFund’s efforts in taking charge of the newly operated Rapid Response Network. Previously owned by CAUSE, we have trained over 1,000 volunteers throughout the tri-county since the beginning of 2025. To date, we have almost reached our fund goal & immediately having been dispersed $478,000 to 388 families! All our successes could not have been achieved without the support from the community.

Bilingual report — Community Environmental Council (CEC) — Cut Costs & Cool Smarter: Your Guide to Healthy Refrigeration

by Community Contributor • October 9, 2025 • Comments Off

Commercial refrigeration is among the most energy-intensive operations in the food business, and outdated systems are costing us more than just money. Many older units use refrigerants that contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change.

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College hosts Career Exploration Day for high school, college students

by Community Contributor • October 3, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — Allan Hancock College invited more than 1,300 local high school and college students to its Santa Maria campus on Oct. 3 for the college’s annual?Career?Exploration?Day.

The in-person event provided participating students with the opportunity to explore potential career paths and learn more about the college’s academic and career technical education programs.

?“Career Exploration Day gives students a chance to connect with industry professionals,” said Hancock Career Counselor David Hernandez. “It opens their eyes to companies and career paths they might not have considered.”

Congresswoman Julia Brownley (D-CA 26th District) — Trump Has Shut Down the Government (Again)

by Community Contributor • October 2, 2025 • Comments Off

(Oct. 1), the federal government entered a “shutdown” caused by a lapse in appropriated resources. Republicans control the House, Senate, and the White House – the three bodies necessary to fund the government. And still, extremists in Congress chose to shut the government down rather than find common ground and negotiate with Congressional Democrats.

In 2019, the Trump administration and Congressional Republicans oversaw the longest government shutdown in U.S. history. In the days leading up to the current shutdown, House Speaker Mike Johnson canceled votes, and the House was not in session to vote on any compromise legislation to keep the government open.

Ventura County Civic Alliance — Registration Now Open – State of the Region Event on Nov. 10

by Community Contributor • October 2, 2025 • Comments Off

Join us for the eagerly awaited release of the Ventura County Civic Alliance 2025 State of the Region report on
Monday, November 10.

This trusted report presents Ventura County data and trends spanning ten areas of community impact including Agriculture, Economy, Education, Land Use and Public Safety.

Hear keynote speaker and report author Tony Biasotti as he delivers a deep dive into the data.

Following the keynote, a diverse and distinguished panel, moderated by David Maron, will discuss the report and share their experiences managing organizations in Ventura County.

Attendees receive a copy of the report and buffet breakfast.

Bilingual report — Mountain Fire Rebuild Permitting Dashboard now available to track permitting progress

by Community Contributor • September 30, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — As the community moves into long term recovery and rebuilding efforts, the Resource Management Agency (RMA) is pleased to announce the launch of the Mountain Fire Rebuild Permitting Dashboard. This new tool, available on both the Resource Management Agency’s website and the Ventura County Recovers website, allows users to track the rebuild permitting progress of properties affected by the Mountain Fire.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • September 24, 2025 • Comments Off

IN-PERSON EVENT: CITY OF OXNARD: READY • SET • GROW: SMALL BUSINESS SUCCESS WORKSHOP SERIES

September 30 @ 9:00 am

Join the City of Oxnard and Economic Development Collaborative for a 3-part series to help business owners improve legal compliance, financial planning and marketing. Participants will receive hands-on, practical training to achieve real results, such as official registration, funding readiness, and customer growth. This 3-workshop series will be conducted in English, with the option to answer questions in Spanish. Hands-on materials will be provided in both languages. Address: Oxnard Main Library, 251 S A St., Oxnard, CA, 93030.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Join us for a NO-COST workshop series for businesses!

by Community Contributor • September 22, 2025 • Comments Off

Join the City of Oxnard and EDC for this workshop series, which has been developed to help advance business formalization, financial resilience and strategic visibility among small businesses in Ventura County. It addresses core areas where entrepreneurs often face barriers—legal compliance, financial planning, and marketing execution—offering hands-on, actionable training that leads to real outcomes: formal registration, funding readiness and customer growth.

Cabrillo Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) IN-PERSON EVENT: Executive Talent Management Forum on Sept. 25

by Community Contributor • September 22, 2025 • Comments Off

Join California Lutheran University for their 10th Annual Executive Talent Management Forum on Talent Mobility & Workforce Agility. In today’s volatile business environment, organizations must develop workforce agility and talent mobility strategies to remain competitive. Economic uncertainties, geopolitical shifts, technological and environmental disruptions, and evolving employee expectations require companies to rethink how they deploy, develop and retain talent. This forum topic would explore how businesses can build a resilient workforce capable of adapting to rapid change.

Thursday, September 25, at 8:00 am

Address: Lundring Events Center, 60 W. Olsen Rd., California Lutheran University, Thousand Oaks, CA 91360

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Join us for a NO-COST workshop series for businesses!

by Community Contributor • September 18, 2025 • Comments Off

This 3-workshop series will be conducted in English, with the option to answer questions in Spanish. Hands-on materials will be provided in both English and Spanish.

Ventura College Foundation accepting scholarship applications for 2026-27 School Year

by Community Contributor • September 18, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Ventura College Foundation is now accepting scholarship applications for the 2026-27 school year.

November 25 is the application deadline for scholarship applications for the Paramedic and Career Education programs. Scholarship recipients will be notified by mid-December. The application deadline for all other scholarships is January 22, 2026. Scholarship recipients will be notified by mid-April 2026. Scholarship award distributions will begin August 1.

Students currently enrolled at Ventura College in the 2025-2026 academic year and who have completed or are on track to complete at least six units in the semester are eligible to apply. Units earned in previous semesters at Ventura College count towards the unit requirement.

CSUCI earns prestigious ABET accreditation for Mechatronics Engineering Program

by Community Contributor • September 18, 2025 • Comments Off

“Receiving ABET accreditation is a significant milestone for our institution and a testament to the dedication of our faculty, staff, and students,” said Interim Dean of the School of Arts & Sciences Philip Hampton. “It validates the strength of our Mechatronics Engineering curriculum and enhances the value of a CSUCI degree for employers and graduate schools alike.”

Historic glamour meets modern philanthropy at the Fashion Show benefiting Hearst Castle and the Monday Club

by Community Contributor • September 18, 2025 • Comments Off

“This event beautifully demonstrates how community, history, and philanthropy can come together to create lasting impact,” said Doug Jenzen, Executive Director of the Foundation at Hearst Castle. “Funds raised will help conserve two rare 17th-century Peruvian tapestries and keep Hearst Castle’s treasures ready to inspire future generations.”

Yardi® donation supports Atlas in furnishing 134 affordable apartments in Ventura

by Community Contributor • September 17, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Ventura Housing (formerly the Housing Authority of the City of San Buenaventura) announced that its nonprofit partner, Atlas, has received a generous donation from Yardi® in support of “The Road Home” Campaign, benefiting residents of Ventura Housing’s latest development at Valentine Road. This groundbreaking permanent supportive housing project located in Ventura is converting the former 142-room La Quinta Inn into 134 studio apartment homes for individuals who have experienced or are at risk of homelessness, thereby reducing homelessness in the local community and transforming the lives of residents.

Ventura County Credit Union continues ‘Year of Giving’ with $75,000 donation at VCFC ‘Unite to Community Action Ventura’ soccer game

by Community Contributor • September 17, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — In its yearlong celebration of its 75th anniversary, Ventura County Credit Union (VCCU) reaffirmed its deep-rooted commitment to community wellbeing by presenting a $75,000 contribution to Community Action of Ventura County (Community Action VC) during the “VCFC Unite to Community Action Ventura” event on Saturday, Aug. 9. The presentation took place during the highly anticipated Ventura County FC (VCFC) soccer match, at VCCU’s exclusive “Member Soccer Night.”

California Lutheran University receives more than $2.9 million in grant funding

by Community Contributor • September 17, 2025 • Comments Off

HOUSAND OAKS — Hundreds of California Lutheran University students will receive additional support for achieving their educational goals, thanks to $2,937,168 in grant funding the university has received in 2025. The grants will increase access to targeted services for students facing financial challenges, provide opportunities for faculty advancement and facilitate building improvement.

“Cal Lutheran is more than a place of working and learning; it is life-giving,” said Cal Lutheran President John Nunes. “To that end, grant funding is an important way for us to strengthen our connection to our community and to provide life-giving academic tools for our students. These grants also enable our faculty to conduct cutting-edge research for the benefit of their field and teaching.”

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • September 15, 2025 • Comments Off

IN-PERSON EVENT: READY • SET • GROW: SMALL BUSINESS SUCCESS WORKSHOP SERIES

September 16, 23 and 30 @ 9:00 am

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Cabrillo Economic Development Corp. celebrates completion of Dolores Huerta Gardens Apartments: A new chapter for affordable housing in Oxnard

by Community Contributor • September 12, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Community leaders, elected officials, and labor rights icon Dolores Huerta gathered on Sept. 5, 2025, to celebrate the grand opening of Dolores Huerta Gardens Apartments. This new affordable housing development from Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation (Cabrillo EDC) brings 58 units specifically for farmworkers, veterans, and low-income families to Ventura County.

Named in honor of legendary civil rights activist Dolores Huerta, the new development reflects her lifelong fight for justice, equity, and the empowerment of working families. This property not only expands access to safe, affordable housing, but also stands as a symbol of resilience, dignity, and community transformation.

“Dolores Huerta Gardens is a foundation for families to build brighter futures,” said Victoria Brady, CEO of Cabrillo EDC. “This community reflects our deep commitment to providing safe, affordable housing for those who need it most, and to creating spaces where residents can truly thrive.”

Every Bottle, Every visit, every order: Folded Hills donates 100% of Friday sales in September to Hospice of Santa Barbara

by Community Contributor • September 12, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Every Friday in September, Folded Hills Winery will match 100% of every purchase – whether it’s bottles of wine, visits to the tasting rooms, or orders from the online store—with a donation to Hospice of Santa Barbara. Through its Philanthropy Fridays initiative, made possible by the Kim and Andy Bush Family Foundation, Folded Hills shines a spotlight on local nonprofits and their amazing work. This month, wine lovers have the unique opportunity to raise a glass while supporting Hospice of Santa Barbara’s mission of providing compassionate care to those in need.

Heroes of Hospice of SB luncheon to Sshowcase unique and valuable artwork for auction

by Community Contributor • September 11, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Hospice of Santa Barbara’s 13th annual Heroes of Hospice luncheon will include a silent art auction, thanks to the generous donation by Suzanne Grimmesey and Edwin Feliciano of three giclée prints by Armenian artist Gevorg Yeghiazaryan. While bids are only available online at https://paybee.io/@hospiceofsb@23, the prints will be on display at this year’s event. Each is valued at as much as $2,000 or higher.

My Way Home (formerly VCCDC) — We’ve Changed Our Name!

by Community Contributor • September 10, 2025 • Comments Off

I am delighted to share that Ventura County Community Development Corporation (VCCDC) is now My Way Home. While our name and look have changed, our mission has not. We remain firmly committed to empowering families and individuals on their journey to homeownership, financial stability, and brighter futures.

For more than 20 years, we’ve been honored to walk alongside thousands of families in Ventura County — and more recently, in Santa Barbara, Kern, and Los Angeles counties. This new name reflects both our growth and the deeply personal journeys of those we serve. My Way Home speaks to the opportunities, possibilities, and hope that come with creating a pathway to home.

Bilingual report — Thomas Hunt appointed director of the General Services Agency

by Community Contributor • September 10, 2025 • Comments Off

“Thomas brings decades of hands-on experience and strategic leadership in facilities and engineering, which makes him uniquely qualified for this role,” stated Dr. Sevet Johnson, County Executive Officer. “His deep understanding of both operational needs and long-term planning will strengthen our ability to maintain and improve critical County infrastructure. Ventura County will benefit greatly from his expertise as we continue to deliver reliable, high-quality services to our residents.”

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • September 8, 2025 • Comments Off

IN-PERSON EVENT: READY • SET • GROW: SMALL BUSINESS SUCCESS WORKSHOP SERIES

September 16, 23 and 30 @ 9:00 am

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

United Way of Ventura County — Consider joining our Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) team

by Community Contributor • September 8, 2025 • Comments Off

Help low-income families and individuals improve their financial security. Consider joining our Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) team of tax preparers and interviewers for the 2025 Tax Year. Volunteers prepare federal and state tax returns at no cost, assisting clients to access the tax credits for which they are eligible. Services will be provided at multiple sites across Ventura County offering the opportunity to volunteer during the day, in the evening, or on Saturday.

Bilingual commentary — The AI Arms Race in the Job Market

by Community Contributor • September 5, 2025 • Comments Off

In the 1970s, in a more prosperous country, company “headhunters” were pursuing us even before we graduated from college. Sometimes we ended up with several job offers. Our “dilemma” was having to choose from among them.

I sympathize with today’s college graduates. Today, untold numbers of graduates are experiencing a superabundance of frustration as they submit, sometimes literally, hundreds of their résumés online to a wide range of companies.

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