Category: Government

Charting New Courses: Port of Hueneme’s Global Trade & Logistics Students set sail toward bright futures

PORT HUENEME — It was a moment of pomp and circumstance at Oxnard College last week as families, educators, and Port leaders honored local students for completing the Port of Hueneme’s Global Trade & Logistics (GTL) class and taking an important step toward future careers in trade, transportation, and logistics.

The award-winning program, offered in partnership with the Oxnard Union High School District, introduces local juniors and seniors to pathways in maritime, supply chain management, and related fields. Through hands-on learning, dynamic presentations, and real-world exposure to Port operations, students gained valuable insight into one of Ventura County’s most vital economic drivers.

Over the course of the 12-session program, students learned directly from Port staff, customers, and community partners about imports and exports, goods movement, cargo systems, safety and security, and the wide range of existing and emerging careers available across the industry.

Guest commentary — An Injury to One Is an Injury to All

At 3 am, Wednesday, May13, 2026, in Ventura County communities, U.S. Department of Homeland Security Investigations agents raided the homes, Gestapo style, of one former and three current VC Defensa volunteers, as well as the organization’s meeting place in downtown Oxnard.

At least twenty-armed HSI agents arrived at each place in military personnel vehicles masked with their firearms and panoplied in full body armor. The agents pounded doors, smashed windows, and battered down entrances.

With warrants, HSI agents ransacked each place and seized computers, mobile phones, and other property while the residents stood outside in the cold handcuffed. No one was arrested.

Bilingual report — Now’s the Time to VOTE: Ventura County Elections Division shares commonly asked questions and answers for June 2 Gubernatorial Primary

VENTURA COUNTY —  With the June 2, 2026 Gubernatorial Primary Election underway, Ventura County Clerk-Recorder and Registrar of Voters Michelle Ascencion and her team are answering some of the common questions about the election that voters have been asking.

“Because every election is unique, each election generates its own set of questions,” Registrar Ascencion said.

“For example, the first thing voters notice when opening their mail ballot is that the ballot size is unusually large, and voters may wonder why that is,” she said. “This election is the first gubernatorial primary in California without an incumbent for governor since 2018, along with other termed-out seats at the State level. An open seat tends to draw a lot of hopefuls – there are about 60 candidates for governor alone!”

Community Environmental Council (CEC) — You have until May 18 to share your input on coastal flooding and erosion solutions

There’s still time to weigh in, but the deadline is coming up fast. Community members are encouraged to complete the Waterfront Adaptation Survey by Monday, May 18 to help shape the long-term future of Santa Barbara’s Waterfront.

The Waterfront Adaptation Plan looks ahead to the next 30 years, focusing on how to prepare for coastal flooding, shoreline erosion, and sea level rise. At the same time, it aims to protect and enhance what makes the waterfront so important to the community: beach access, recreation, boating, natural habitats, and essential coastal infrastructure.

Ventura County Office of Education — 2026 Teacher of the Year, Battle of the Books Winners, and more!

The Ventura County Office of Education is thrilled to announce that John Beck, an English teacher from Pacifica High School in the Oxnard Union High School District, is the 2026 Ventura County Teacher of the Year! Mr. Beck received the news this week when his family members joined representatives from VCOE and OUHSD in a surprise visit to his classroom.

Mr. Beck has been teaching for 21 years and has been at Pacifica for 13. His classroom is known for a positive atmosphere where students feel comfortable and confident in themselves as they engage in academic discussions.

“In a diverse community like ours, where students bring a wide range of experiences, languages, and aspirations into the classroom, my goal is to create an environment where every student sees themselves as a capable reader, writer, and thinker,” Mr. Beck said. His program is built to ensure equitable access to engaging, rigorous learning experiences that prepare students for success inside and outside the classroom.
Learn More about Mr. Beck

Bilingual report — Santa Paula sees sizeable decrease in homelessness 2026 Point-in-Time count results

SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula is pleased to share positive results from the 2026 Ventura County Homeless Point in Time Count, which indicate a 21.5% decrease in the total number of unsheltered and sheltered individuals experiencing homelessness in the City, when compared to 2025.

The Point-in-Time Count, conducted annually across Ventura County, provides a snapshot of homelessness in the community and helps guide funding, services, and policy decisions. Santa Paula’s results reflect meaningful local progress.

Community Environmental Council (CEC) — Final days: we can’t go back

We’re in the final days of our Spring Appeal, and we’re still working to reach our $75,000 goal by May 15.

We’re close — and every gift matters right now.

We are seeing renewed efforts to expand fossil fuels and roll back climate progress, even here on the Central Coast.

We’ve come too far to go back.

Your gift today will be matched dollar-for-dollar, but only for a short time.

Give now. Your gift will be doubled. ?

Steaming Ahead: Port of Hueneme secures $11.25M Federal Grant to expand capacity and modernize infrastructure

PORT HUENEME — The Port of Hueneme was awarded $11,250,000 in federal funding on April 28 through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration (MARAD) as part of the competitive Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP). The investment brings needed wharf and berth upgrades to streamline operations at one of the nation’s leading hubs for fresh produce and automobiles.

“Strategic investments like this ensure the Port of Hueneme remains a reliable, forward-looking gateway for global trade,” said Jason Hodge, President of the Oxnard Harbor District Board of Harbor Commissioners. “This funding will allow us to continue delivering economic value for our region while supporting a more resilient national supply chain.”

Bilingual report — Ventura County Health Care Agency announces new VCMC/SPH Director

VENTURA — Ventura County Health Care Agency (HCA) (on May 6) announced the appointment of Danielle Gabele, DNP, RN, as Chief Executive Officer of Ventura County Medical Center (VCMC) and Santa Paula Hospital (SPH), effective May 10, 2026.

Dr. Gabele holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree and serves as President-Elect of the Association of California Nurse Leaders. She is also pursuing a Master of Health Administration degree at the University of Cincinnati.

“Dr. Gabele is a proven leader with a deep commitment to patient-centered care and clinical excellence,” said [Dr. John Fankhauser, HCA Director]. “Her collaborative approach and operational expertise make her exceptionally well-suited to lead VCMC and Santa Paula Hospital into the future.”

Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation opens new exhibit at Casa de la Guerra exploring housing discrimination and its lasting impacts

SANTA BARBARA — The Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation (SBTHP) announces the opening of a new exhibit, Fine Print, Hard Lines: Housing and Exclusion in Santa Barbara, which examines how discriminatory housing policies and practices have shaped the city’s past and continue to influence the community today.

On view at Casa de la Guerra, Fine Print, Hard Lines explores the use of restrictive covenants and other exclusionary practices embedded in historical “fine print” that limited who could buy, rent, or reside in certain neighborhoods. Through a compelling mix of primary sources including property records, real estate advertisements, newspaper articles, and historic maps, the exhibit reveals how these practices produced lasting social inequities and barriers that still affect the lived experiences of Santa Barbara residents.

Bilingual report — Warm May temperatures signal the start of peak ‘Mosquito Season’ following early mosquito activity in 2026

VENTURA — As temperatures continue to rise this May, Ventura County residents are encouraged to take steps to prevent mosquito breeding and protect themselves from bites as peak mosquito season begins. Mosquito activity started earlier than usual this year due to above-average temperatures, including the warmest March on record, along with increased rainfall. In addition to native mosquito species that can transmit West Nile Virus (WNV), the invasive Aedes aegypti mosquito has become established in Ventura County.

Art, Identity, and the Global Game Converge in ‘Once Miradas, Un Balón’ at the Mexican Consulate in Oxnard. Events May 14 through Sept. 4

OXNARD — As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, a new exhibition in Oxnard invites the community to explore the game of soccer through a local perspective. The Oxnard Performing Arts Center Corporation (OPAC), in partnership with the Consulado de México en Oxnard, presents Once Miradas, Un Balón (Eleven Gazes, One Ball)—a group exhibition that looks at fútbol as both a cultural presence and a source of artistic inspiration. The exhibit opens to the public with a reception on May 21 from 5:30-8pm and will celebrate (4) youth soccer teams with a custom jersey giveaway and hands-on activities. Once Miradas, Un Balón will be on view from May 14 – September 4, 2026. Gallery hours are 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, Monday-Friday. Admission is free.

Ventura Charter School’s 15th Annual EcoFest draws 2,500 in celebration of Students, Sustainability and Community

VENTURA — Ventura Charter School welcomed an estimated 2,500 attendees to its 15th Annual EcoFest on Sunday, April 26, as students, families, local businesses and community organizations gathered on the school’s Ventura campus to celebrate sustainability and demonstrate what a school rooted in its community looks like in practice.

All proceeds from booth fees, sponsorships, the silent auction and raffle ticket sales go directly to student programs and educational enrichment at Ventura Charter School.

Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara held Senior Fair, ‘Young at Heart’

SANTA BARBARA — On Thursday, April 30th, the Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara (HACSB), in partnership with 2nd Story Associates, hosted the Young at Heart Senior Fair at Presidio Springs. Approximately 150 HACSB senior residents gathered to receive important information and resources from a wide array of partnering organizations and service providers.

The event provided local seniors with access to essential resources related to health care, wellness, recreation, caregiving, and social services. Highlights of the fair included:

Bilingual report — Allan Hancock College Foundation welcomes two alumni to board of directors

SANTA MARIA — The Allan Hancock College Foundation has appointed two AHC alumni to its board of directors, further strengthening its mission to support student success and expand educational opportunities across the Central Coast. 

In addition to being proud Hancock graduates, Claudia Ortiz and Luis Servin also bring a combined wealth of experience in community leadership, workforce development and education advocacy to the Foundation. 

Ventura County Arts Council — $5k and $10k grants available for artists – APPLY NOW by June 1st!

Are you an individual artist who has a unique artistic vision, a sustained commitment to creative practice, and engages to make an impact on the cultural ecosystem in your community? If so, this grant opportunity is for you!

The California Arts Council’s Individual Artists Fellowship program uplifts and celebrates California artists across all disciplines and traditions, highlights their excellence, and acknowledges their leadership in shaping traditional and contemporary cultures.

The online grant application deadline is June 1, 2026 at 5:00 p.m.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — In-Person Event (May 7): 12th Annual Orange County World Trade Week Forum

12TH ANNUAL ORANGE COUNTY WORLD TRADE WEEK FORUM

Join the District Export Council for an evening filled with world-class keynote speakers, engaging panel discussions, and unparalleled business-to-business networking opportunities at the 12th Annual World Trade Week Forum Event. This is your chance to connect with key trade organizations, international business groups, and extensive global resources available in Southern California.

Presented by the District Export Council of Southern California and supported by key partners, including the Greater Irvine Chamber of Commerce and WITOC, this gathering is essential for those ready to embrace the future of international trade. Don’t miss this opportunity to propel your trade ambitions forward!

Central Coast United for a Sustainable Economy (CAUSE) — Join May Day Actions on the Central Coast. See other events

VENTURA COUNTY — May Day – also known as International Workers’ Day – is Friday, May 1, 2026, and we’re inviting you to take part in a powerful day of action across Ventura and Santa Barbara counties.

On May 1, workers, students, and families across the Central Coast will come together for a coordinated day of rallies and marches as part of a nationwide mobilization spanning more than 1,000 cities. Rooted in grassroots energy and a growing movement of economic noncooperation, communities are taking a collective stand – walking out of workplaces, classrooms, and stores – to demand a future that puts people over profit.

This “No Work, No School, No Shopping” action highlights the strength of everyday people united in solidarity with communities facing impossible choices amid escalating ICE raids and rising authoritarianism, while corporate profits continue to rise. From the fields to classrooms to city streets, the message across the Central Coast is clear: ICE OUT OF THE 805.

Bilingual commentary — The Art of Individual and Global Respect

In kindergarten, children are taught to respect each other. The youngsters are taught to “be nice” to their classmates, avoid name-calling and, above all, respect them.

But along the way, as children grow older, something goes terribly wrong. We would think that as adults we would have figured out that hostile, demeaning language online and face-to-face do nothing to promote amity and forward progress.

Unfortunately, too many adults with angry schoolyard aggression enter our civic and political spheres, where they have the power to inflict irreparable damage and lasting chaos. This is very much the scenario that we are witnessing in real time. Too often it seems as if the policies that guide our current government’s agenda are cruelty, belligerence, and hate. Disrespect for others is a troubling and pervasive element of executive orders, legislative bills, presidential tweets, and official pronouncements.

Mixteco Indigena Community Organization Project (MICOP) — No Work, No School, No Shopping: Oxnard May Day Calls for ICE Out of the 805 on May 1

OXNARD — On May 1, 2026, workers, students, and families will join local organizations in Downtown Oxnard for a May Day Rally and March, as part of the May Day Strong Movement in over 1,000 cities nationwide to demand a country that puts people over profit. The action is part of a coordinated “No Work, No School, No Shopping” pledge to demonstrate solidarity with community members who continue to choose between basic needs amid increased fear due to ICE enforcement, while corporations and billionaires grow their wealth. Across California’s Central Coast, we rise together with one clear demand: ICE OUT OF THE 805. 

Campus Bookstores at the Ventura County Community College District now accepting CalFresh Benefits

CAMARILLO — Making it easier than ever for students to put food on the table, campus bookstores at the community colleges of Ventura County now accept Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, known in California as CalFresh. The expanded payment option launched March 30, 2026.

According to the 2025 Real College California Basic Needs Survey, 46% of community college students statewide reported food insecurity — and research shows that more than half of eligible students aren’t accessing the CalFresh benefits available to them. By upgrading campus bookstore systems to accept Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards, VCCCD is making it easier for students who are already enrolled in CalFresh to use their benefits right on campus.

Bilingual report — City of Ventura launches Small Business Week with events supporting local businesses

VENTURA — The City of Ventura’s Economic Development team is celebrating Small Business Week, May 4-8, with a series of events and opportunities designed to support and connect the local business community. 

“Small businesses are a vital part of Ventura’s economy and what makes our community unique,” said Meredith Hart, Economic Development Manager for the City of Ventura. “We’re committed to providing the resources, connections, and tools they need to succeed.” 

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

(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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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 ?