Category: Government

Urgent call for unified support of Ventura CARE Policy protecting Trans, Immigrant, and Reproductive Rights

by Community Contributor • May 29, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Ventura Trans Sanctuary is calling upon community members, allies, and local leaders to rally in support of the proposed Ventura CARE Policy, a critical measure designed to protect transgender individuals, immigrants, and reproductive rights within the region. This initiative comes at a time when federal policies threaten to undermine the safety and freedoms of these vulnerable communities.

The CARE Policy aims to establish Ventura and Ojai as sanctuary cities, ensuring non-cooperation with external enforcement efforts that target transgender individuals, immigrants, and those seeking reproductive healthcare. With the policy scheduled for a vote in Ventura on June 11, 12, 18, or 19, and a similar proposal expected in Ojai during the second week of June, the need for immediate and collective action is paramount.

Ventura County Public Health, VC-ASH, and Tobacco Cessation Programs Mark World No Tobacco Day 2025 on May 31

by Community Contributor • May 29, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Ventura County Public Health, in partnership with Ventura County Action on Smoking and Health (VC-ASH) proudly joins the global community in recognizing World No Tobacco Day on May 31. This day, established by the World Health Organization, raises awareness about the health and environmental harms caused by tobacco use and highlights efforts to promote tobacco-free living.

The 2025 theme, “Unmasking the Appeal,” focuses on exposing the tactics tobacco companies use to attract youth through flavored products and marketing strategies. These deceptive appeals contribute to tobacco’s status as the leading cause of preventable disease and death worldwide.

“Tobacco use remains one of the leading causes of preventable illness worldwide,” said Vicky Gonzales of Ventura County Public Health. “We are committed to empowering Ventura County residents with the information and resources they need to quit and to protect our youth from the harmful influence of tobacco and nicotine products.”

Ventura County Fire Dept. to conduct prescribed burn in Adams Canyon

by Community Contributor • May 29, 2025 • Comments Off

THOUSAND OAKS — The Ventura County Fire Department (VCFD) plans to conduct a prescribed burn in Adams Canyon, north of Santa Paula, on June 3rd, 4thor 5th weather permitting. This controlled burn is part of ongoing efforts to improve ecosystem health and reduce wildfire risk. A window of 3 days is provided to ensure the safest weather conditions are used, and the burn will be conducted on only one of the 3 days listed.

Adams Canyon is located north of Santa Paula, south of Thomas Aquinas College, and west of Steckel Park. Firefighters will utilize hand-ignition techniques to carefully burn up to 100 acres. A small test burn will be conducted beforehand to confirm optimal conditions before proceeding with the full burn.

Bilingual report — City of Ventura and ForeFront Power complete citywide solar portfolio

by Community Contributor • May 29, 2025 • Comments Off

New solar canopies support Ventura’s Climate Action Plan and will save $2.3 million in energy costs

VENTURA — The City of Ventura held a ribbon-cutting ceremony (May 29) celebrating the completion of a new 900 kilowatt-DC solar portfolio, marking a major milestone in the City’s commitment to sustainability and long-term cost savings. Developed in partnership with ForeFront Power, the project features solar parking canopies at two high-usage facilities: the Ventura Police and Fire Headquarters and Ventura Community Park.

Ventura County Public Works Agency completes El Rio Pedestrian Improvements Project. Ribbon cutting on June 2

by Community Contributor • May 29, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Supervisor Kelly Long’s Office and the Ventura County Public Works Agency (VCPWA) will host a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the completion of the El Rio Pedestrian Improvements Project on Monday, June 2 at 12:00 p.m. The event will take place in the parking lot of the First Baptist Church of El Rio, 2857 Cortez St., Oxnard.

The pedestrian improvements – which began in July 2024 — closes sidewalk gaps within the El Rio community, providing accessible pedestrian walkways along three residential roadways: Stroube Street, Walnut Drive and a portion of Cortez Street.

Bilingual report — June 3 County of Santa Barbara Board of Supervisors meeting. Topics include: Fire hazard severity zones, cannabis business licensing, operations, & tax revenue

by Community Contributor • May 29, 2025 • Comments Off

The next regular meeting of the
County Board of Supervisors is scheduled for
9 a.m. Tuesday, June 3, 2025
County Administration Building
Board Hearing Room, Fourth Floor
105 East Anapamu Street, Santa Barbara,CA
The public may participate virtually or in person at the County Board Hearing Room
in Santa Barbara or Santa Maria.

Meet the 2025 Ventura County Teacher of the Year — Shi Young Kim

by Community Contributor • May 28, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Dr. César Morales, Ventura County Superintendent of Schools, is pleased to announce that Shi Young Kim, a visual arts teacher from Rio Mesa High School in the Oxnard Union High School District, is the 2025 Ventura County Teacher of the Year. Ms. Kim received the surprise news during a classroom visit today by representatives from the Ventura County Office of Education and OUHSD. With a career marked by creativity, leadership, and dedication to student growth, Ms. Kim has inspired countless students through a dynamic blend of traditional and digital visual arts instruction.

Guest contribution — Urge Newsom: Stop Sable Oil Pipeline, protect May 29 at Gaviota State Park

by Community Contributor • May 28, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Amid growing outrage over Governor Gavin Newsom’s silence regarding Sable Offshore’s oil operations, community members and student activists will gather for a peaceful demonstration on Thursday, May 29 at 7:00 AM at Gaviota State Park.

Sable Offshore has begun pumping oil from offshore platforms that were abandoned for more than a decade, and pipeline work at Gaviota State Park is expected to finish this week. Environmental advocates say the silence from the Governor’s office—and the waivers granted by State Parks and Fire Marshal agencies—suggest tacit approval from the highest levels of state government.

People’s Self-Help Housing CEO & President celebrates 20 year anniversary

by Community Contributor • May 28, 2025 • Comments Off

“We are so grateful for his passion and steadfast guidance over the past two decades,” said Shelly Higginbotham, PSHH Board Chair. “For his dedication and leadership, we congratulate Ken on reaching this significant milestone.”

Since joining PSHH in 2005, Ken has served in many roles, including Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, and Vice President of Real Estate Finance. With extensive experience accumulated through a 30+ year distinguished career in banking and affordable housing, Ken brings an innovative combination of executive skills to his role as CEO & President. He earned his undergraduate degree in Agricultural Business Management from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, and his MBA in Finance & Banking from Golden Gate University, San Francisco.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • May 27, 2025 • Comments Off

IN-PERSON: MARKETING IN A DIGITAL WORLD

June 3 @ 8:30 am

Join SCORE Ventura County, City of Moorpark and EDC for this insight-packed workshop. It aims to educate business owners on the essential digital marketing skills, including social media dos and don’ts, tips for both digital and print marketing, creating engaging and effective content, avoiding common mistakes and so much more! Location: Moorpark City Hall, 323 Science Dr., Moorpark.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Supervisorial Leadership & Excellence Awards

by Community Contributor • May 27, 2025 • Comments Off

Thank you to everyone who joined us for the 1st Annual District 2 Supervisorial Leadership and Excellence Awards—a special evening celebrating the “Great Navigators” of our community. From public safety and education to environmental stewardship and economic development, our honorees represent the best of Ventura County.

A heartfelt thank you to Amgen for graciously hosting us on their Thousand Oaks campus, and to the New West Symphony for providing beautiful music that elevated the evening.

To our recipients, sponsors, guests, and supporters—thank you for making this inaugural event such a success. If you missed it, I encourage you to watch the inspiring tribute videos linked below.

Bilingual report — City of Oxnard joins Memorial Day Ceremony

by Community Contributor • May 23, 2025 • Comments Off

OXNARD — Mayor Luis A. Mc Arthur is pleased to announce that the City of Oxnard along with members of the following organizations: Disabled American Veterans – Chapter 24, Knights of Columbus Council 750, Military Officers Association of America Ventura County Chapter, Port of Hueneme and the Channel Islands High School Raiders Band will jointly host a Memorial Day Ceremony on Monday, May 26, 2025, at Plaza Park (500 South C Street) starting at 11 a.m.

Pierre Claeyssens Veterans Foundation announces free Memorial Day Ceremony at Santa Barbara Cemetery to honor military service

by Community Contributor • May 23, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — The Pierre Claeyssens Veterans Foundation and the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1649 have announced the details of their popular annual Memorial Day ceremony taking place on May 26th, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at the Santa Barbara Cemetery, 901 Channel Drive.

This free event honors men and women who have proudly served in the United States military. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early in order to secure a seat. Plenty of free parking will be available on-site. The ceremony is scheduled to begin at 11:00 a.m. sharp near the cemetery’s main flagpole. This year’s program will feature presentations and performances by local groups such as the UCSB ROTC Color Guard, Gold Coast Pipe & Drum Band, David Gonzales and the Santa Barbara Choral Society, and The Prime Time Band.

Bilingual report — Community Organizing Gatherings continue across Santa Barbara County on May 24

by Community Contributor • May 23, 2025 • Comments Off

Looking to take action in your community? Join the Santa Barbara Transgender Advocacy Network for a countywide day of community organizing this Saturday, May 24th, from 12 to 2 PM in Santa Barbara, Goleta, and Isla Vista.

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College honors 17 retiring faculty and staff

by Community Contributor • May 23, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA — On May 21, Allan Hancock College honored the dedication and service of 17 retiring faculty and staff members during a heartfelt ceremony that celebrated decades of contributions to student success.?

This year’s retirees, who contributed a combined 341 years of service to the college, include full and part-time faculty members, classified staff, supervisors, and administrators from various programs and departments.

“Our retirees have helped shape this college into the extraordinary institution it is today,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “Their dedication, compassion, and commitment to our students have made a lasting impact that will be felt for generations.”

Bilingual report – Ventura County Public Works Agency recognizes 2025 Employees of The Year

by Community Contributor • May 23, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Ventura County Public Works Agency (VCPWA) is proud to announce the recognition of its 2025 Employees of the Year. These exceptional individuals have demonstrated extraordinary leadership, dedication, and innovation in their roles, contributing to the Agency’s ongoing success. The awards were presented on Tuesday, May 20th, during the Ventura County Board of Supervisors meeting.

Evan Martinez, honored with the Operations & Maintenance Employee of the Year award, has been with VCPWA for just over five years, playing a key role in maintaining and operating the water systems across the Agency’s four service districts. His major duties consist of helping the Operations and

Productions team deliver safe drinking water to residents and keeping the water system in excellent working condition.

Bilingual report — May News from People’s Self-Help Housing

by Community Contributor • May 22, 2025 • Comments Off

A big thank you to everyone who supported the 2025 Builder Games, presented by Mechanics Bank. Together, we raised over $125,000 for our Supportive Housing and Camino Scholars programs.

Ventura County Air Pollution Control District — New website improves access to air quality info

by Community Contributor • May 20, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Ventura County Air Pollution Control District has launched a new website that makes it much easier for the public to access information and services and connect with district staff.

Rebuilt from the ground up to replace the district’s original 2006 website, the new digital hub at vcacpd.org also streamlines the process for staff to keep it updated.

Among the new features are colorful dials on the homepage that provide real-time air quality data from the district’s monitoring stations in El Rio, Ojai, Piru, Simi Valley and Thousand Oaks.

Bilingual report — City of Santa Paula to host State of the City event

by Community Contributor • May 19, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula welcomes all Santa Paula residents, business owners, partners and supporters, to attend the annual State of the City event on June 5th. The event will take place at the Ventura County Agriculture Museum, located at 926 Railroad Ave., Santa Paula, CA 93060.

This year’s event, themed “Feel the Progress,” offers a chance for residents, community leaders, and stakeholders to hear about the City’s recent accomplishments, ongoing efforts, and what lies ahead. Join us to explore Santa Paula’s current priorities and community focused initiatives shaping our future.

Local Medi-Cal health plan earns accreditation from National Committee for Quality Assurance

by Community Contributor • May 19, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — CenCal Health, the Medi-Cal managed care plan for Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties, announced that it has received accreditation from the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) for its Medi-Cal (Medicaid HMO) program on the Central Coast. By successfully demonstrating its commitment to high-quality healthcare, operational efficiency and member experience, CenCal Health earned accreditation for its quality of managed care operations.

County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell hiring a full time community field representative

by Community Contributor • May 19, 2025 • Comments Off

Community Field Representative

(Supervisors Administrative Assistant II)

Full-Time | $92,531.22–$129,556.40 annually

Join our team! In this dynamic role, you’ll work directly with the community to help solve problems and support local initiatives.

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College hosts fire and EMS Graduations in Lompoc

by Community Contributor • May 19, 2025 • Comments Off

LOMPOC — Allan Hancock College celebrated a new crop of first responders on May 16 as a combined 68 cadets graduated from the college’s fire and emergency medical services (EMS) academies.?

The graduates were honored during two ceremonies at the college’s Public Safety Training Complex (PSTC) in Lompoc.??

“This graduating class embodies the future of public safety,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “They’ve undergone rigorous training and are ready to step into their roles as first responders, serving and protecting our communities.”

Bilingual report — Ventura County Animal Services — Free dog adoptions for dogs in our care for 100+ days

by Community Contributor • May 19, 2025 • Comments Off

Over 50 amazing dogs have been in our care for more than 100 days! To help them find loving homes, we’re offering a fee-waived adoption promotion for these long-stay pets.

Please note: All adoption procedures still apply despite promotions.

Adoption Hours: 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM, Tuesday – Sunday
Locations: Camarillo & Simi Valley Animal Shelters
View Available Animals: www.vcas.us/pets
Learn About the Adoption Process: www.vcas.us/adopt

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Happy World Trade Month!

by Community Contributor • May 16, 2025 • Comments Off

The Economic Development Collaborative would like to recognize World Trade Month. This month celebrates how international trade unlocks new business opportunities, creates jobs and helps strengthen the United States and global economy.

The EDC is proud to support our community by providing professional technical assistance through our Small Business Development Center. Our NO-COST advising areas include:

• Start-up guidance
• Marketing and Branding
• International Trade
• E-commerce and Social Media
• Manufacturing Assistance
• Legal Compliance
• Strategic Planning
• QuickBooks and Accounting
• And MORE!

County of Santa Barbara Board of Supervisors meeting of May 20 to discuss Emergency Shelters Zoning Ordinance Amendments, Prohousing Designation, Public Safety Realignment Plan, Grand Jury Epidemic Response

by Community Contributor • May 16, 2025 • Comments Off

Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors’ meetings are available in Spanish. Watch live on our Spanish YouTube Channel, or Cable TV subscribers can access Secondary Audio Programming (SAP) in language settings.

Bilingual report — Community Environmental Council (CEC) — Save up to $12,000 on an EV—Get Free Help Applying!

by Community Contributor • May 15, 2025 • Comments Off

Through August, CEC is offering FREE in-person and virtual DCAP application assistance sessions. During the sessions, CEC associates will provide one-on-one support to help you complete your application.

Bilingual report — Community members urged to use shuttles and off-site parking for Strawberry Festival

by Community Contributor • May 15, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — With thousands expected to attend the California Strawberry Festival at the Ventura County Fairgrounds on May 17-18, 2025, the Ventura Police Department advises visitors to expect traffic congestion throughout the weekend. Attendees are encouraged to use off-site parking, the free Strawberry Express Shuttle system, or rail services to avoid delays and enhance pedestrian safety.

“While the City of Ventura is not the host of the Strawberry Festival, the event has a significant impact on our streets and neighborhoods,” said Traffic Unit Supervisor Sergeant Mark Knackstedt. “Our role is to help ensure public safety by managing increased traffic, preventing collisions, and providing for pedestrian safety.”

Downtown Community Input Survey

by Community Contributor • May 15, 2025 • Comments Off

The Downtown Oxnard Improvement Association (DOIA) has partnered with Downtown Strategies to develop a Five-Year Action Plan for Downtown Oxnard. Instead of brainstorming everything we could do, their bite-sized plan will identify practical small-scale strategies for what we should do to see immediate impact.

Ventura County Civic Alliance May 15, 2025 Livable Communities Newsletter

by Community Contributor • May 15, 2025 • Comments Off

We are continuing to look at the dire housing crisis in Ventura County and the need for affordability in the real estate market. This quarter’s articles focus on identifying different housing needs and a variety of approaches used to fill them.

The actualized projects presented by the Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation and California State University Channel Islands each address the needs of specific groups in different but effective ways. The third segment discusses a project that has initial approval and is working its way through the system in Ventura.

It is clear that creativity in design, amenities, location and financing, along with process flexibility, are key

Community Environmental Council (CEC)— Santa Barbara County votes to phase out oil drilling

by Community Contributor • May 14, 2025 • Comments Off

Thanks to your support, on Tuesday, May 13, the County of Santa Barbara Board of Supervisors voted to direct county staff to develop an oil phaseout ordinance. More than two dozen community members attended in-person or virtually to provide public comment, mostly in support of ending oil drilling and phasing out existing wells. The Community Environmental Council (CEC) partnered with the Sierra Club Santa Barbara-Ventura Chapter, the Environmental Defense Center, Climate First: Replacing Oil & Gas (CFROG) and more than 50 other organizations on this call to action.

Bilingual report — Ventura Police Dept. — “Click It or Ticket” campaign reminds Californians to always buckle up

by Community Contributor • May 14, 2025 • Comments Off

“Buckling up takes seconds, but it can save your life,” said Corporal David Curtis. “Every person in every vehicle — no matter their age or where they’re sitting — deserves that protection. Wearing a seat belt should be second nature, every trip, every time.”

UCSB — The Current — ‘Jason De León to speak on May 15,’ and more news, events

by Community Contributor • May 13, 2025 • Comments Off

The scholar and National Book Award-winning author explores the human consequences of U.S. immigration policies and shares stories of hope and resilience from the border.

Ventura County Fire Secures $1 Million Grant to Strengthen Wildfire Resilience in High-Risk Communities

by Community Contributor • May 13, 2025 • Comments Off

THOUSAND OAKS — The Ventura County Fire Department, in partnership with District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell, has secured a $1 million grant from the Santa Monica Mountain Conservancy to enhance wildfire prevention and preparedness across the Santa Monica Mountains region of Ventura County.

The grant, unanimously approved by the conservancy board Monday night, will fund comprehensive wildfire resilience efforts, including recruiting and support for new Firewise Communities, strategic fuel reduction across more than 150 acres, enhanced public education efforts and the acquisition of a water tender to improve firefighting capabilities.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • May 12, 2025 • Comments Off

HYBRID WORKSHOP: MARKETING IN A DIGITAL WORLD

May 20 @ 5:00 pm

Join SCORE Ventura County and EDC for this insight-packed workshop which aims to educate business owners on the importance of marketing in a changing world where social media runs things. Participants will learn about the benefits of digital marketing and how these benefits will help grow your client base. This is a Hybrid Workshop: You can attend in person with the presenter at Chase Bank, 2181 N Rose Ave, Oxnard, CA 93036, or online via Zoom.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Ventura County celebrates record-breaking graduation from Skilled Trades Program

by Community Contributor • May 12, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — The Workforce Development Board of Ventura County (WDBVC) celebrates the graduation of its latest and largest cohort from the High Road Construction Careers (HRCC) pre-apprenticeship program. The comprehensive, no-cost initiative equips residents of Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo Counties with the necessary skills and connections before embarking on apprenticeship training, and ultimately a career in the building and construction trades.

“This was an amazing career opportunity for me,” said Lois Person-Effinger, a recent HRCC graduate. “There are so many variations of construction [within the program] … electrical, plumbing, carpentry, so I feel like it has something for everyone.”

Bilingual report — Ventura Police Department honors officers during National Police Week

by Community Contributor • May 12, 2025 • Comments Off

VENTURA — During National Police Week, happening May 11–17, the City of Ventura recognizes the people behind the badge and the vital roles they play in making our community safer and stronger. Behind every call for help, traffic stop, or community event is a Ventura Police Department employee working with purpose, compassion, and resolve.

“National Police Week is a powerful reminder of the commitment our officers make every day and of the very real risks they face to protect our community,” said Interim Police Chief Tony Lee. “Our employees are our most valuable asset, and the work they do is the backbone of public safety in Ventura. We are deeply grateful for their service, sacrifice, and resilience.”

Speak Out on May 13 to Support Climate Action and Ensure Oil Drilling Has an End Date

by Community Contributor • May 12, 2025 • Comments Off

On Tuesday, May 13, the County of Santa Barbara Board of Supervisors will hear a staff presentation on the potential to prohibit new oil drilling and phase out oil operations in Santa Barbara County. This is a critical opportunity to advocate for a cleaner future for the California Central Coast.

By pledging to phase out oil drilling, Santa Barbara has the chance to be a climate leader and demonstrate a clear commitment to a healthier, cleaner county for all. Help us ensure oil drilling in our county has an end date.

To learn more about the hearing, explore the agenda here and the staff report here. Our agenda item, Address Emissions from Oil and Gas Operations, is the eighth and final item on the agenda. See the Learn More section below for additional background information and resources.

Bilingual report — Santa Paula Councilmember Jenny Crosswhite appointed SCAG Second Vice President

by Community Contributor • May 12, 2025 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula proudly announces the appointment of Councilmember and former two-time Mayor Jenny Crosswhite as Second Vice President of the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), the largest metropolitan planning organization in the United States. Crosswhite’s appointment was formally confirmed at SCAG’s General Assembly on May 1, 2025.

Port of Hueneme Community Newsletter

by Community Contributor • May 9, 2025 • Comments Off

The Port of Hueneme proudly acknowledges April as Autism Acceptance Month. The Board of Harbor Commissioners passed a resolution recognizing this important month, which was received by the Autism Society Ventura County (ASVC).

We were also honored to sponsor the 13th Annual Aut2Run on April 27th — a meaningful event hosted by ASVC and attended by over 3,000 people. Aut2Run promotes awareness and acceptance for autistic individuals and their families.

County of Santa Barbara Board of Supervisors meeting of May 13 to discuss environmental health service fees, options to address emissions from oil & gas operations

by Community Contributor • May 9, 2025 • Comments Off

The next regular meeting of the
County Board of Supervisors is scheduled for
9 a.m. Tuesday, May 13, 2025
Joseph Centeno Betteravia Government Administration Building
Board Hearing Room
511 East Lakeside Parkway, Santa Maria
The public may participate virtually, or in person at the County Board Hearing Room in Santa Barbara or Santa Maria.

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