Category: Government

County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — E-Bike Safety Measure Passes

by Community Contributor • April 29, 2026 • Comments Off

(April 28), the E-bike Safety Measure (Item 46) passed unanimously. Supervisor Jeff Gorell brought this forward in partnership with the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office.

This measure builds on the strong work already happening locally and aims to evaluate best practices across California—including education, enforcement, and policy options. A report will be provided to the Board with recommendations to improve safety.

As e-bike use continues to rise, so do challenges like unsafe riding, collisions, and confusion around the rules. This is about working together—families, schools, law enforcement, and our community—to keep our kids safe.

Workforce Development Board of Ventura County (WDBVC) honored with 2026 WIOA Trailblazer Award

by Community Contributor • April 27, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Workforce Development Board of Ventura County (WDBVC), a regional public workforce agency, has been awarded the prestigious 2026 WIOA Trailblazer Award by the National Association of Workforce Boards (NAWB). This national recognition, out of 570 boards across the United States, highlights WDBVC’s outstanding leadership, community partnerships, and innovative approach to workforce development.

Ventura County Fire Department (VCFD) Division Chief Dan Horton promoted to Assistant Chief of Operations

by Community Contributor • April 27, 2026 • Comments Off

THOUSAND OAKS — The Ventura County Fire Department (VCFD) is proud to announce the promotion of Division Chief Dan Horton to Assistant Chief of Operations.

Chief Horton’s promotion marks a significant milestone in his 25-year career with VCFD.
He has served in every rank within the department — from Firefighter through Division Chief — demonstrating a strong commitment to leadership, service, and operational excellence at each level.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) presenting FREE Webinar Series for small businesses ‘Work Smarter, Grow Stronger with AI’ May 21 through June 30

by Community Contributor • April 27, 2026 • Comments Off

The Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) will present a FREE Webinar Series for small businesses ‘Work Smarter, Grow Stronger with AI’ May 21 through June 30 including AI 101 for Small Business; Google AI Tools for Growth and Scale: The Small Business AI Toolkit; more…

Bilingual report — Update regarding sewage discharge affecting Port Hueneme and Oxnard beaches

by Community Contributor • April 27, 2026 • Comments Off

OXNARD —The Ventura County Environmental Health Division has collected ocean water samples from the public beaches affected by the sewage release that occurred on April 21, 2026. The samples collected on April 23, 2026, indicate that the beaches from Port Hueneme Beach Park south to the Point Mugu Naval Base meet State ocean water quality standards and are now open. All beaches previously closed due to the sewage release have been re-opened, and warning signs have been removed.

Teacher of the Year for VCOE-Operated Schools is announced

by Community Contributor • April 24, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Mackenzie Holland, who has dedicated her career to teaching students with extensive support needs, has been named the 2026 Teacher of the Year for schools operated by the Ventura County Office of Education (VCOE). Ms. Holland will now have the opportunity to compete for the Ventura County Teacher of the Year award.

Holland learned this morning that she was being honored at VCOE’s Dorothy Boswell School in Ventura, which serves young adults with special needs. Shegot a big surprise as she walked into a conference room to find her colleagues waiting for her, along with Dr. César Morales, Ventura County Superintendent of Schools. Also on hand to break the good news were Associate Superintendent of Student Services Dr. Consuelo Hernandez Williams, Boswell Principal Dr. Amy Stencler, and Director of County Program Support & Accountability Christina Mahone.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura seeks public input on upcoming Prohousing Designation application

by Community Contributor • April 23, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The County of Ventura is inviting public input as it prepares to apply for the State of California’s Prohousing Designation, a program that recognizes jurisdictions that go beyond state housing laws to accelerate housing production and reduce barriers to development. On April 28, 2026, the Ventura County Board of Supervisors will consider adoption of a resolution at 10:30 a.m., authorizing the County to apply for, and participate in the program, marking the start of the public process. The hearing of the item at the Board of Supervisors meeting represents the first opportunity for community members to share input on the proposed application.

Community Environmental Council (CEC) — From oil spill to Earth Day — and what comes next

by Community Contributor • April 23, 2026 • Comments Off

More than 50 years ago, a devastating oil spill off our coast sparked a powerful movement.
In 1970, our community came together to organize one of the first Earth Day celebrations — and the Community Environmental Council was born.

This weekend, we will gather again.

Earth Day is a reminder of what’s possible when a community comes together to demand change and build solutions.

But today, we are once again facing efforts to expand fossil fuels and roll back progress.

Santa Barbara City College releases first annual Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee Report for Measure P Bond Extension

by Community Contributor • April 23, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — Santa Barbara City College (SBCC) announced the release of the first annual report from the Measure P Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee (CBOC), providing the community with a transparent update on how voter-approved bond funds are being managed and invested up to December 31, 2025. Click here to see the full report in English and Spanish: CBOC.SBCC.edu

Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara breaks ground on 46 unit affordable housing development 15 South Hope Avenue

by Community Contributor • April 23, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — The Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara (HACSB) held a groundbreaking ceremony for its newest affordable housing development located at 15 South Hope Avenue on Wednesday, April 22. This new construction, multifamily rental housing project will provide 46 affordable units and represents a major step in addressing the region’s housing needs. Neighbors, local officials, community partners, and housing advocates gathered to celebrate this milestone.

Bipartisan opposition halts effort to weaken Endangered Species Act, safeguarding wildlife along California’s Central Coast

by Community Contributor • April 23, 2026 • Comments Off

CENTRAL COAST — After widespread opposition from constituents and conservation groups, House leaders have indefinitely postponed a vote on the “ESA Amendments Act” (H.R. 1897), a proposal that would have gutted the Endangered Species Act. The bill was pulled from consideration on April 22 moments before it was scheduled for a vote, after mounting concerns about its impact on more than 1,700 protected plant and animal species across the country.

Bilingual report — Registration is now open for the Ventura County Farmworker Housing Study and Action Plan Feedback Sessions

by Community Contributor • April 22, 2026 • Comments Off

The Ventura County Farmworker Housing Study and Action Plan is a collaborative, countywide effort launched by the County of Ventura in partnership with House Farm Workers!, designed to understand and address the urgent housing needs of the county’s farmworker community – needs shaped by long-standing shortages, rising housing costs, and the essential role farm workers play in sustaining the region’s agricultural economy.

Central Coast Alliance United for a Sustainable Economy (CAUSE) — Speak Out (April 21) to protect families’ Housing

by Community Contributor • April 21, 2026 • Comments Off

Time is running out. The deadline to weigh in on a major federal housing proposal is tomorrow – and what happens next could determine whether thousands of families can stay in their homes. The Trump administration’s attacks on immigrant families are spreading to impact affordable housing for children and others living in mixed-status homes.

Right now, federal policy allows families with mixed immigration status to stay together and receive housing assistance for members of the family who are eligible. The new proposed policy would end that.

If finalized, it would shift to an “all-or-nothing” rule: If even one person in a household isn’t eligible, the entire family could lose housing assistance.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • April 20, 2026 • Comments Off

IN-PERSON: STOP GUESSING: UNDERSTAND YOUR BUSINESS NUMBERS WITH QUICKBOOKS REPORTS

April 21 @ 8:30 am

QuickBooks Online can generate dozens of reports, but which ones truly matter for running and growing your business? Join SCORE Ventura, City of Ventura, Accelerate CA and Economic Development Collaborative in this practical workshop, business owners will learn how to create and interpret the most important financial reports on QuickBooks Online. Whether you are new to QuickBooks or have been using it for years, understanding your financial reports is essential for making informed decisions and managing your business with confidence. Participants will explore a few of the most critical reports every business owner should review regularly and learn how to interpret the numbers behind them. Check-in: 8:00 am – Coffee and Pastries Provided; Event starts at 8:30 am. Address: Ventura City Hall | 501 Poli St, Ventura, CA 93001 | Community Room. #202. Price: FREE.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Ventura County Community College District joins National Entrepreneurship Pilot to expand access to business financing education

by Community Contributor • April 20, 2026 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — The Ventura County Community College District (VCCCD) is hosting “Foundations of Financing for Entrepreneurs,” a free workshop today at the HIVE Autonomous Innovation Center in Camarillo.

The workshop is part of a national pilot program, CEED to Success, designed to expand entrepreneurship and business financing education to underserved founders. As part of this initiative, VCCCD is partnering with the program’s founder, Baker Hill, through its Center for Entrepreneurship and Economic Development (CEED) and a partnership with the National Association for Community College Entrepreneurship (NACCE).

Bilingual report — County of Ventura employees mark milestones across decades of public impact

by Community Contributor • April 17, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — More than six centuries of public service were recognized this week as the County of Ventura honored 24 employees reaching career milestones of 25 to 35 years. Their combined 660 years of service reflect decades of experience supporting essential programs and services across the county. The recognition took place during the April 14 meeting of the Board of Supervisors.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura Ocean Water Quality Monitoring Report

by Community Contributor • April 17, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Ocean water quality results from samples collected this week indicate that ocean water quality at the following Ventura County beach sampling locations failed to meet State standards for bacteria:

Rincon Beach – South of Creek

Surfer’s Knoll Beach

Bilingual report — Election observation schedule released for June 2, 2026 Gubernatorial Primary Election

by Community Contributor • April 17, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Elections Division released its Election Observation Schedule, outlining the dates, times, and descriptions of observable activities, for the upcoming June 2nd election.

Bilingual report — Santa Paula Police Chief Advisory Committee application period opens

by Community Contributor • April 16, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — The Santa Paula Police Department is currently accepting applications for the Police Chief Advisory Committee. Those interested in applying can do so online. The application is open to residents or business owners in the City of Santa Paula.

The Police Chief Advisory Committee will be comprised of 5-7 members from the community. The committee may take on roles including but not limited to: reviewing policies and practices, community concerns, and recommending public safety strategies. The committee’s purpose is advisory only, and it will not act in an oversight capacity.

Ventura County Taxpayers Association (VCTA) 2026 Economic Outlook Report is HERE!

by Community Contributor • April 16, 2026 • Comments Off

Download the 2026 Economic Outlook Report presented at our April 14th VCTF event.

This comprehensive report is presented by Dr. Mark Schniepp from the California Economic Forecast.

Community Environmental Council (CEC) — This is what’s at stake on the Central Coast

by Community Contributor • April 14, 2026 • Comments Off

Across the country, we’re seeing renewed efforts to expand fossil fuels and lock in decades of climate risk.

Here on the Central Coast, we know what that means.

We’ve seen what happens when systems fail — and we’ve spent decades building something better.

To protect that progress, CEC is working to raise $75,000 by May 15 — and your gift will be matched dollar-for-dollar.

We can’t go back.

Protect our progress ?

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • April 13, 2026 • Comments Off

IN-PERSON WORKSHOP: AI FOR SMALL BUSINESS: 10 USE CASES YOU CAN APPLY THIS MONTH

April 17 @ 8:30 am

Join SCORE, the City of Moorpark, the Economic Development Collaborative, and Accelerate CA for this information-packed workshop. Turn AI from buzzword into business results. Learn practical, low-cost tools and tips for marketing, sales, and operations, no IT or coding background needed. Leave with prompts, checklists and a 30-day action plan. Note: A free or paid Generative AI Account (e.g. ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, Co-Pilot) is required to get the most out of the hands-on portions of this workshop. Bring a fully charged laptop or device with your selected AI application installed and signed in to your account. Address: Moorpark City Hall | 323 Science Dr, Moorpark, CA 93021. The Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub (Accelerate CA Hub) is funded by the State of California and administered by CalOSBA. Price: FREE.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Bilingual report — 805 UNCOCUFund — Urgent: Stop the $460M Jail Expansion – Protect Our Immigrant Community

by Community Contributor • April 13, 2026 • Comments Off

The Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors is currently considering a massive $460 million proposal (including long-term financing and staffing) to expand the North Branch Jail by 1½ housing units, adding 384 beds. We are calling on the Board to reject this overreach and limit the addition to just one housing unit (256 beds).

The Board’s current plan would more than double the capacity of the Santa Maria jail, locking our County into decades of crushing debt and soaring operational costs. Our County is facing $23 million in cuts to social and safety-net programs next fiscal year and a $66 million deficit over the next 5 years.

The Human Cost: A Devastating Blow to Our Immigrant Community

Beyond the fiscal irresponsibility, this expansion poses a direct threat to our immigrant neighbors. Our jails already hold many non-violent residents, including those struggling with mental health or substance use disorders, who do not need to be incarcerated to ensure public safety.

Bilingual report — Ocean Water Quality Monitoring Report: Potential storm water runoff contamination

by Community Contributor • April 13, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — As part of the Ventura County Ocean Water Quality Monitoring Program, the Environmental Health Division (Division) is providing the following precautionary information to the public. Rainfall that is significant enough to result in runoff can flow into storm drains, channels, creeks, and rivers that empty onto the beaches of Ventura County. In general, 0.2 inches (2 tenths of an inch) of rainfall may be enough to create significant runoff conditions.

Bilingual report — Santa Paula City Council opts not to advance cannabis ballot measure

by Community Contributor • April 13, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA PAULA — At a Special Meeting held on April 6, 2026, the Santa Paula City Council convened at the Community Center to consider the feasibility of placing a potential ballot measure before voters related to the regulation of commercial cannabis activities within the City. Ultimately, the City Council voted 4-1 not to place the measure on the upcoming November ballot.

The discussion was aligned with the City Council’s Strategic Goal of Economic Development, as permitting commercial cannabis activities, specifically retail storefronts, would provide opportunities to increase the City’s revenue base, create local jobs, and activate vacant commercial spaces.

Bilingual report — Ventura’s Music Under the Stars tickets go on sale May 12

by Community Contributor • April 13, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Music Under the Stars returns to the Olivas Adobe Historical Park this summer with eight outdoor concerts on Saturdays from July through August. Tickets go on sale May 12, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. PST.

The City encourages people to purchase tickets online, as many concerts sell out quickly. While tickets are also available by phone or in person, please note that customer service may not be able to accommodate all requests promptly due to high demand. Purchasing tickets online ensures the fastest and most reliable way to secure seats.

Mixteco / Indigena Community Organizing Project (MICOP) — From the Fields to Fair Pay: New report demands change

by Community Contributor • April 10, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA MARIA – Alianza Campesina (on April 8) held a press conference to unveil new statewide research. The report builds on years of organizing led by Central Coast farmworkers fighting for living wages and safer, more dignified workplaces.

“Just a week ago, California took a step in the right direction, identifying March 31st as Farmworker Day, but now that everyone has collectively recognized the importance of celebrating farmworkers across the state, we need to follow up with action because farmworkers need more than just celebration. They need a living wage, and that is why we are gathered here today, to demonstrate that implementing a living wage is viable and is long overdue,” Erica Diaz Cervantes, Associate Policy Director with CAUSE.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura marks Mountain Fire recovery milestone with first rebuilt home cleared for occupancy

by Community Contributor • April 10, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The County of Ventura has issued the first certificate of occupancy for a home rebuilt following the Mountain Fire, marking a significant step forward in the community’s recovery. The fire, which started November 6, 2024, burned through unincorporated Camarillo and surrounding areas, destroying 182 homes and damaging additional structures. The disaster displaced hundreds of residents and launched a long-term recovery effort involving multiple county agencies and community partners.

Bilingual report — Community Environmental Council (CEC) announces 2026 Environmental Heroes ahead of Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival (April 25-26)

by Community Contributor • April 10, 2026 • Comments Off

SANTA BARBARA — The Community Environmental Council (CEC) has announced its 2026 Environmental Heroes, honoring Megan Birney Rudert and Assemblymember Gregg Hart for their leadership and innovation in advancing climate solutions. The awards will be presented at the 56th annual Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival, returning to Alameda Park April 25–26, 2026.

One of the longest-running Earth Day celebrations in the country—and among the largest on the West Coast—the Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival is a beloved community tradition that brings together thousands of attendees for a weekend of environmental action, education, and celebration. The free, two-day event will take place Saturday, April 25 from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Sunday, April 26 from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — ounty of Ventura marks Mountain Fire recovery milestone with first rebuilt home cleared for occupancy

by Community Contributor • April 10, 2026 • Comments Off

The County of Ventura has issued the first certificate of occupancy for a home rebuilt following the Mountain Fire, marking a significant step forward in the community’s recovery. The fire, which started November 6, 2024, burned through unincorporated Camarillo and surrounding areas, destroying 182 homes and damaging additional structures. The disaster displaced hundreds of residents and launched a long-term recovery effort involving multiple county agencies and community partners.

CLU School of Management — 2026 Housing Conference Coverage now available

by Community Contributor • April 9, 2026 • Comments Off

CESI’s 2026 conference, “California’s Housing Crisis: Roots of the Problem and What Lies Ahead,” is now fully available—bringing together opening remarks, cutting-edge research, a dynamic panel, and candid Q&A throughout.

Explore three short highlight videos tackling housing affordability, economic inequality, and the mounting pressures facing communities across California.

This is more than a recap—it’s a call to action. Join the conversation, challenge the status quo, and help drive the long-overdue change Californians deserve.

ReFrame 2026: A Day of Inspiration, Advocacy, and Skill-Building for Ventura County’s Creative Community to be held April 12

by Community Contributor • April 9, 2026 • Comments Off

CAMARILLO — Ventura County’s artists, cultural leaders, and creative entrepreneurs are invited to gather for ReFrame, a one-day convening designed to strengthen the region’s creative economy and support the people who power it. The 3rd annual event is taking place Sunday, April 12, 2026 from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM at Studio Channel Islands Art Center (SCIArt) in Camarillo. It brings together creatives from across the county to learn, connect, and explore how arts and culture can drive both community wellbeing and economic vitality.

Two Citizen Life Saving Citations to be presented at VCFD Awards April 23

by Community Contributor • April 9, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — The Ventura County Fire Department will honor 43 employees, first responders, and civilians for excellence in support of the department’s public safety mission at our annual awards ceremony on Thursday, April 23 at the Ronald Regan Library in Simi Valley.

Two Ventura County residents will be awarded life-saving citation medals for their critical role helping a member of our community during a life-threatening emergency.

VC CoLAB leadership update

by Community Contributor • April 9, 2026 • Comments Off

Dear VC CoLAB Members and Supporters:

I want to share an important update with you directly.

After seven years serving as Executive Director, I have made the difficult decision to leave VC CoLAB. I have accepted the position of CEO of the Farm Bureau of Ventura County, where I will continue advocacy work with a focused emphasis on agriculture.

Community Environmental Council (CEC) — We can’t go back

by Community Contributor • April 9, 2026 • Comments Off

Help us meet this moment.

To defend climate progress on the Central Coast, we must raise $75,000 by May 15 — and your gift will be doubled thanks to a generous match from our Board and President’s Council.

Make your matched gift today ?

More than 50 years ago, an oil spill off our coast exposed the risks of fossil fuels — and led to the creation of the Community Environmental Council.

Today, we face renewed threats.

County of Ventura 2025 Medical Examiner’s Office Overdose Report

by Community Contributor • April 9, 2026 • Comments Off

2,097 deaths were reported to the Ventura County Medical Examiner’s Office during the 2025 calendar year. Jurisdiction was accepted for 1,078 of these deaths, requiring further investigation and certification. Postmortem examinations were performed on 796 cases. Of the cases investigated, 216 deaths were due to overdose with illicit drugs, medications, alcohol or other substances.

Of the 216 overdose deaths, 199 were accidents, 14 were suicides, two deaths were of undetermined manner, and one death was a homicide. Of these overdose deaths, men accounted for 154 deaths (71.3%) and women accounted for 62 deaths (28.7%).

Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free event and webinar schedule

by Community Contributor • April 6, 2026 • Comments Off

EN ESPAÑOL: PRESENCIAL: QUICKBOOKS ESENCIAL Y DESARROLLO DE HABILIDADES: TALLER INTERACTIVO PARA NEGOCIOS PRESENTADO POR LA CIUDAD DE OXNARD

9 de abril a las 9:00 am

Acompañe a la ciudad de Oxnard, al Colaborativo de Desarrollo Económico y a Accelerate CA en este taller práctico e interactivo, diseñado tanto para usuarios principiantes y usuarios expertos de QuickBooks en Oxnard. Si está comenzando desde cero o lleva años utilizando QuickBooks y desea perfeccionar sus habilidades, esta sesión abordará las funciones esenciales y explorará temas más avanzados en función de las preguntas de los participantes. Registro: 8:30 am. Dirección: Biblioteca Pública de Oxnard – Biblioteca Principal, 251 S A St, Oxnard, CA 93030. El programa Accelerate California: Inclusive Innovation Hub (Accelerate CA) está financiado por el Estado de California y administrado por el Defensor de la Pequeña Empresa de California (CalOSBA, por sus siglas en inglés). Precio: GRATIS.

HAGA CLIC AQUÍ PARA INSCRIBIRSE

Bilingual report — Roadway improvements planned for State Route 34 for enhanced traffic safety

by Community Contributor • April 6, 2026 • Comments Off

SOMIS — AMCAL Multi-Housing, Inc. in partnership with the County of Ventura will be performing off-site roadway improvements to the recently completed Somis Ranch Apartments to enhance safety for future residents, as well as the general public. The improvements, which will take placealong State Route 34 (SR-34) will include two new bus stops, new right and left-turn lanes, and a new traffic signal at the entrance of the housing development. Additionally, minor roadway widening, drainage upgrades, updated signage and striping, and the addition of a bike lane will occur.

Bilingual report — Help Ventura County Vote – Apply to be an Elections Worker for the June 2, 2026 Gubernatorial Primary Election

by Community Contributor • April 2, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA COUNTY — Ahead of every major election cycle, the Ventura County Elections Division hires hundreds of local community members to serve as the temporary elections workers that play a key role in ensuring elections are executed in a safe, secure, and efficient manner. From working at a vote center, verifying signatures, transporting mail ballots, and providing information on the voter assistance hotline, there are many opportunities to get involved with the upcoming June 2, 2026 Gubernatorial Primary Election.

Explore Lompoc — Your budget-friendly guide to Lompoc on California’s Central Coast

by Community Contributor • April 2, 2026 • Comments Off

LOMPOC — Colorful murals, crave-worthy wines, and fresh-air adventures—all without breaking the bank.

Set between rolling hills and the Pacific, Lompoc is your launchpad for adventure. Explore the charming downtown, sip local wines, hike scenic trails, or catch a rocket lighting up the sky from nearby Vandenberg Space Force Base.

Things to Do That Won’t Break the Bank

Lompoc offers plenty of memorable experiences that don’t require a big budget. From outdoor adventures to local culture, there’s something for every visitor to enjoy.

Historic and Cultural Experiences: La Purísima Mission

La Purísima Mission State Historic Park is one of California’s most fully restored Spanish missions, set amid rolling hills and oak-studded landscapes.

County of Ventura District 2 Supervisor Jeff Gorell — Introducing the 2026 “Great Navigators” of District 2

by Community Contributor • April 2, 2026 • Comments Off

You are invited to attend the 2nd Annual Supervisorial Leadership and Excellence Awards on May 7, from 5:30–7:30 PM at the Amgen campus in Thousand Oaks.

Join us as we celebrate the “Great Navigators” of our community—these exceptional honorees representing Education, Public Safety, Community Leadership, Prosperity, and Environmentalism. Each awardee reflects the very best of Ventura County—an educator shaping future leaders, a first responder dedicated to keeping our communities safe, a community leader making an impact on the lives of many, an innovator strengthening our local economy, and a community garden collective advancing sustainability, local food access, and environmental stewardship.

Bilingual report — County of Santa Barbara April 2026 Newsletter

by Community Contributor • April 1, 2026 • Comments Off

Bilingual report — County of Ventura Ocean Water Quality Monitoring Report: Potential storm water runoff contamination

by Community Contributor • April 1, 2026 • Comments Off

In general, 0.2 inches (2 tenths of an inch) of rainfall may be enough to create significant runoff conditions.

There is a potential for storm water runoff to carry disease causing bacteria to the beaches and into the ocean water.

Bilingual report — Ventura City Council meetings return to Council Chambers beginning April 14

by Community Contributor • April 1, 2026 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The City of Ventura will resume hosting City Council meetings in Council Chambers beginning Tuesday, April 14, following the completion of accessibility upgrades.

Council Chambers had been temporarily closed to allow for improvements that enhance access and usability for all participants. Since August 2025, meetings have been held at the Wright Event Center at Ventura College.

Oxnard launches Arts, Culture & Creativity Month on April 1 featuring new cultural district

by Community Contributor • March 31, 2026 • Comments Off

OXNARD — The Oxnard arts community will officially launch Arts, Culture & Creativity Month this April with a vibrant public celebration of the newly designated Downtown Oxnard Cultural District—bringing together artists, cultural leaders, and community stakeholders for a dynamic kickoff event on Wednesday, April 1 at the Oxnard Transit Center.

Hosted by the City of Oxnard, Downtown Oxnard Improvement Association (DOIA), and Oxnard Performing Arts Center Nonprofit (OPAC), the event will transform the Transit Center into a lively hub of creativity. Attendees will experience interactive art activations, live performances, and a special lowrider on exhibit—alongside refreshments and opportunities to connect with the artists and organizations shaping the district.

Ventura County Office of Education — Science Fair & Mock Trial Results, Why Equity Matters, DC Advocacy, and more

by Community Contributor • March 31, 2026 • Comments Off

Why Equity Matters in Our Schools
Dr. César Morales, Ventura County Superintendent of Schools

Despite what you may have heard, equity in education is a straightforward, commonsense idea. It’s simply acknowledging that some students face more challenges than others. These can range from poverty and disabilities to language barriers or trauma at home.

Whatever their struggles, all students deserve the chance to succeed in school – and that’s what equity is all about. As you can see in this graphic, equity and equality are not the same thing.

Downtown celebrates Arts, Culture & Creativity Month

by Community Contributor • March 31, 2026 • Comments Off

First Thursdays Food Trucks rolls back into Plaza Park on April 2nd, launching the 2026 season with an all-out, big hair, new wave, neon night, ’80s-throwback party featuring live music by The Beta Macks. The food truck lineup is a savory and sweet fleet of the best mobile eats in the 805. And don’t forget to hit up the makers market – imagine it like The Galleria Mall – you’ll see all your friends there!

Ventura County Taxpayers Association (VCTA) — VCMS: County launches $180M PLA before study concludes

by Community Contributor • March 31, 2026 • Comments Off

On Tuesday, March 24, 2026, the Board voted 5-0 to move forward with a massive construction project under a Project Labor Agreement (PLA). This decision was made despite a promised key study that isn’t even finished yet.

The Broken Promise of 2020

Back in 2020, a different group of Supervisors started a $90 million pilot study. The plan was to build four small projects to compare union-only contracts (PLAs) against regular competitive bidding. The Board promised they wouldn’t expand these union-only rules until a full “cost and performance study” was finished.

California Oil and Gas Health Protection Law survives first-round Trump Administration attack

by Community Contributor • March 31, 2026 • Comments Off

“Today’s decision is a win for Californians who have been saying for years that oil and gas drilling and its rampant pollution shouldn’t be anywhere near our schools, hospitals and communities,” said Tomás Rebecchi, Central Coast organizing manager at Food & Water Watch. “This is an important moment for our health and safety, which is under threat from the Trump administration, and we applaud the court for keeping this important protection in place while the lawsuit plays out.”

Bilingual report — The latest news from the County of Ventura

by Community Contributor • March 30, 2026 • Comments Off

County of Ventura appoints new Director of the Health Care Agency

Dr. John Fankhauser has been appointed Director of the Ventura County Health Care Agency. Fankhauser has served as the Interim Director for the Health Care Agency since January 2026. Prior to his role as Interim Director for the Health Care Agency, Fankhauser served as Chief Executive Officer for the Ventura County Medical Center (VCMC) and Santa Paula Hospital since 2019, a role he continued to hold while also serving as the Interim Director.

“Dr. Fankhauser has consistently shown a deep commitment to public service, paired with the depth of expertise needed to lead complex medical systems,” said Dr. Sevet Johnson, County Executive Officer. “His leadership in managing large-scale health care operations and his deep commitment to addressing community needs positions Dr. Fankhauser to make a meaningful and continued positive impact on our health care system. His record of strong health care leadership and experience make him exceptionally well-prepared to serve as the Director for the Health Care Agency.”

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