Category: Government

Bilingual report — COVID-19 Update for Oct. 13, 2021

by Community Contributor • October 13, 2021 • Comments Off

Since Monday, there are 201 new COVID-19 cases reported and 11,964 new tests performed. There are 46 people hospitalized, 6 in the ICU. There have been 4 additional deaths of a 77 year old male, 61 year old male, 64 year old female, and an 85 year old male. Our sincere condolences to the loved ones of those who have passed away.

80.2% of Ventura County’s population 12+ has received the first dose.
81.7% of Ventura County’s population 18+ has received the first dose.
73.5% of Ventura County’s population 12+ are fully vaccinated.

www.vcrecovers.org

Former U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development and Presidential Candidate Julián Castro speaks before UCSB A&L audience in Campbell Hall on “Waking Up From My American Dream’

by Community Contributor • October 13, 2021 • Comments Off

CSB Arts & Lectures (A&L), the Central and South Coasts’ premier cultural arts presenting organization, proudly presented Former U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development and Presidential Candidate Julián Castro, who spoke Sunday, October 10th at 7:30 p.m. on Waking Up From My American Dream. Castro shared insights from his political journey and actionable ways we can effect change.

A former Democratic candidate for president, Julián Castro served as secretary of Housing and Urban Development under President Obama from 2014 to 2017, and as mayor of San Antonio from 2009 to 2014. He made history in 2001 as San Antonio’s youngest city councilman at that time, and again in 2012 as the first Latino to deliver the keynote address at the Democratic National Convention.

His memoir, An Unlikely Journey: Waking Up From My American Dream, published in 2018, is a candid account of race and poverty in America. Born to unmarried parents in a poverty-stricken neighborhood of a struggling city, Castro details his unlikely journey to becoming an emerging national icon.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Grant Available for Businesses in Conejo Valley!

by Community Contributor • October 13, 2021 • Comments Off

The Conejo Valley Small Business Relief Fund has been established by the Greater Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce’s Foundation in partnership with the cities of Thousand Oaks, Westlake Village and Agoura Hills. The fund has provided much needed grants to local small businesses as they navigate the financial impacts of COVID-19. The maximum grant is currently $2,500!

Celebrando a Nuestra Gente– In Conversation with Graciela Casillas on Oct. 13

by Community Contributor • October 13, 2021 • Comments Off

In honor of Latinx Heritage Month, the County of Ventura Behavioral Health Logrando Bienestar program, in partnership with the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion presents “Celebrando a Nuestra Gente – In Conversation with Graciela Casillas” a virtual event on October 13, 2021 at 6 pm.

Graciela Casillas, of Oxnard, a Black Belt Hall of Fame inductee, “Women of the Year,” has earned international acclaim as one of the world’s top martial artist, and as a teacher of the art of self-defense.

San Luis Obispo presents 2021 Annual Report of the Assessor’s Office

by Community Contributor • October 13, 2021 • Comments Off

San Luis Obispo County presents 2021 Annual Report of the Assessor’s Office which provides the latest information regarding the value of property assessed for property tax purposes.

“I want to especially thank the great staff of the San Luis Obispo County Assessor’s Office. With diligence and professionalism the outstanding employees of our office have fairly and equitably assessed the value of all taxable property within the county,” said Tom J. Bordonaro, Jr., County Assessor.

Santa Barbara First District Supervisor Das Williams — Alisal Fire Update & Air Quality Watch

by Community Contributor • October 12, 2021 • Comments Off

I know many are concerned about the growing Alisal Fire. The Board of Supervisors today proclaimed a local emergency and requested the Governor declare a state of emergency.

Below I am sharing information Third District Supervisor Joan Hartmann shared earlier today in addition to other recent updates.

The Alisal fire has burned 7,500 + acres, with zero percent containment. There are 800 firefighters responding. Information about evacuations orders and warnings are available below.

Highway 101 remains closed between Highway 1 and Winchester Canyon Road/Cathedral Oaks in both directions. Highway 154 is the alternate route, however expect significant delays on this route.

Please visit https://readysbc.org/alisal-fire/ for status updates on the fire, evacuation zones and road closures. En Español: https://readysbc.org/es/alisal-fire/

Bilingual report — Draft Supervisorial District Maps Available for Review

by Community Contributor • October 12, 2021 • Comments Off

County of Ventura Draft Supervisorial Maps are now available for community review on the Redistricting website at www.ventura.org/redistricting/draft-maps/. Based upon the principles listed below, the County’s consultants Redistricting Partners have objectively prepared a series of draft alternative supervisorial maps. These draft maps were derived from an amalgamation of obligatory state and federal inputs, data points from the most recent census, and draft maps, comments, and statements submitted by the public.

Assemblymember Bennett’s bill increasing enforcement options on idle oil wells signed by the governor

by Community Contributor • October 12, 2021 • Comments Off

Legislation was signed this weekend that establishes additional authority at CalGEM to fine and remediate idle gas and oil wells and create options for companies who seek to work with the State on their unpaid fees. Governor Newsom signed AB 896 (Bennett) which authorizes CalGEM to impose a claim or lien on the idle well under specified conditions.

“The recent oil spill in Huntington Beach underscores the need for California to increase regulations on oil producers,” said Bennett. “I want to thank the Governor for signing my AB 896. The bill allows the state to pro-actively begin enforcement before oil producers orphan a well. AB 896 strengthens our enforcement mechanisms and allows the state to recover cost for environmental damage before an operator files for bankruptcy.”

Grant Program Championed by Assemblymember Irwin to Seize Weapons from Prohibited Persons Announces Open Application Window

by Community Contributor • October 11, 2021 • Comments Off

California Attorney General Rob Bonta today announced the opening of the application period for Gun Violence Reduction Program grants. Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin led a coalition of over 20 of her colleagues in the Assembly to secure this funding in the 2021 Budget Act. Funding will be awarded by the California Department of Justice (DOJ) to county sheriff’s departments to support activities related to seizing weapons and ammunition from individuals prohibited from possessing them.

County of Ventura COVID-19 Update for Oct. 11

by Community Contributor • October 11, 2021 • Comments Off

Since Friday, there are 253 new COVID-19 cases reported and 13,900 new tests performed. There are 54 people hospitalized, 4 in the ICU. There have been 0 additional deaths.

80.1% of Ventura County’s population 12+ has received the first dose.
81.6% of Ventura County’s population 18+ has received the first dose.
73.3% of Ventura County’s population 12+ are fully vaccinated.

Booster shot information
COVID test information (State sites closed on October 11)
Get your flu shot

www.vcrecovers.org

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Free Weekly Webinar Schedule

by Community Contributor • October 11, 2021 • Comments Off

The Economic Development Collaborative encourages you to sign up for our no-cost webinars. Space is limited. Register today!

Bilingual report — COVID-19 Update for Oct. 8, 2021

by Community Contributor • October 8, 2021 • Comments Off

Since Thursday, there are 82 new COVID-19 cases reported and 6,569 new tests performed. There are 57 people hospitalized, 10 in the ICU. There have been 0 additional deaths.

79.9% of Ventura County’s population 12+ has received the first dose.
81.5% of Ventura County’s population 18+ has received the first dose.
73.2% of Ventura County’s population 12+ are fully vaccinated.

Speaker Rendon Appointments Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin to Cradle-to-Career Data System Governing Board

by Community Contributor • October 8, 2021 • Comments Off

Speaker of the Assembly Anthony Rendon (on Oct. 7) appointed Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (Thousand Oaks – D) to serve on the Cradle-to-Career Data System Governing Board. Established as part of the 2021-2022 Budget Act, the Cradle-to-Career Data System will link California’s existing education, workforce, financial aid, and social service information. These tools will help students and families more easily navigate the educational pipeline, as well as empower policymakers and educators to address disparities in opportunities and improve outcomes for all students throughout the state.

“The COVID-19 pandemic and associated learning disruptions have made absolutely clear the need for reliable data that spans across educational segments and institutions,” Assemblymember Irwin said. “This data system will be critical in identifying high impact practices, targeting resources where they are most needed to close equity gaps, and ensuring that all students have access to a roadmap for achieving their goals.”

New Director of Ventura County Airports Selected

by Community Contributor • October 8, 2021 • Comments Off

Keith Freitas has been selected to run the County’s airports in Camarillo and Oxnard. The appointment as Director of Airports was made by County Executive Officer Mike Powers. The selection included a national search garnering 45 applicants and a hiring panel comprised of community members from the Camarillo and Oxnard Airport Authority, Aviation Advisory Commission, a representative of the California Airports Council as well as the Assistant CEO and Community Liaison.

“Keith brings more than 30 years of combined airport management experience. He also understands the importance of community engagement and building trust with the community,” said County Executive Officer Mike Powers. “His experience in master plan development and in strengthening partnerships and communication with all stakeholders will be a benefit for our airports and our community members.”

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — EDC Legal Alert- COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave Expires

by Community Contributor • October 7, 2021 • Comments Off

The requirement for employers to provide supplemental paid sick leave (SPSL) to employees expired on September 30, 2021. Read below to learn more about the recent changes on the federal, state and local levels.

Federal Update

The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA), which was extended through the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA) to allow employers to voluntarily continue to provide COVID-related SPSL and still receive the available tax credits, expired on September 30, regardless of whether an employee is on leave at the time of expiration.

UCSB — The Current — ‘Uniting Generations’ and more information

by Community Contributor • October 7, 2021 • Comments Off

A clinical trial explores how virtual reality can help older adults and their families stay connected.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura COVID-19 Update for Oct. 6

by Community Contributor • October 6, 2021 • Comments Off

October 6, 2021 – COVID-19 Update COVID-19 Update Since Tuesday, there are 4 new COVID-19 cases reported and 5,436 new tests performed. There are 61 people hospitalized, 13 in the ICU. There have been 2 additional deaths of a 72…

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Vaccination Verification for Entry in Los Angeles County

by Community Contributor • October 6, 2021 • Comments Off

In response to the ongoing community transmission of COVID-19 and the presence of the Delta variant, the new Los Angeles County Health Officer Order requires certain higher risk businesses to take additional steps to ensure the safety of their customers and employees, including verification of vaccination status prior to entry.

Updated Health Officer Order Requirements
For Los Angeles County Only

Port of Hueneme — Dock Talk – Clean Air Day Edition – October 2021

by Community Contributor • October 6, 2021 • Comments Off

TODAY IS CLEAN AIR DAY!

IT’S OCTOBER 6 – Join us in challenging yourself to create clean air in your community. Take the pledge and agree to switch to a greener energy vehicle, tool or cleaner; vow to plant a tree or start a community garden plot; or reduce your vehicle emissions by walking/biking to work or taking public transit!

County of Ventura Medical Examiner’s Office — Special Report: Fatal Overdose Comparison by 6 Month Interval

by Community Contributor • October 6, 2021 • Comments Off

For calendar year 2020, the number of accidental overdose deaths (203) represented a significant increase from the previous year (128). Data from 2020 indicated that the rise was almost entirely related to the potent opioid drug fentanyl. The data contained in this report indicates that fentanyl overdose deaths rose dramatically during the second half of 2020 and have continued at a similar rate during the first six months of 2021. If overdoses continue at this rate, the number of accidental overdoses in the county could exceed 250 by year end.

Bilingual report — County of Ventura Public Works Agency Awarded Employer of the Year by International Right of Way Association (IRWA)

by Community Contributor • October 6, 2021 • Comments Off

The County of Ventura Public Works Agency has been awarded Employer of the Year for 2020-2021 by the International Right of Way Association (IRWA), Chapter 47. IRWA is a global, member-led organization of dedicated professionals whose purpose is to improve quality of life through excellence in infrastructure development.

In this case, the County of Ventura Public Works Agency provided technology and staff to ensure that Chapter meetings continued virtually during the pandemic with monthly programs continuing to show best practices on public works projects and real estate issues arising in the Ventura, Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo County areas.

Bilingual report — Sept. 14, 2021 California Gubernatorial Recall Election Final Results and Certification Announced

by Community Contributor • October 5, 2021 • Comments Off

Ventura County Clerk-Recorder, Registrar of Voters Mark Lunn announced today the final election results for the September 14, 2021 California Gubernatorial Recall Election with 100% of precincts reporting.

A total of 321,553 ballots were cast in this election. Final results for this election yielded a 63.07% voter turnout. The county had a record-breaking total of 509,797 registered voters.

Santa Barbara First District Supervisor Das Williams — Rental Assistance Funds, Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment, & Booster Info

by Community Contributor • September 30, 2021 • Comments Off

The County of Santa Barbara Emergency Rental Assistance Program, administered through United Way of Santa Barbara County, is now accepting applications.

So many are still facing evictions and but aren’t aware that this assistance is available to them, so please help us spread the word!

The program is open to Santa Barbara County tenant-households with an annual income at or below 80 percent of the Area Median Income (AMI), who have experienced a loss of income due to or during the COVID-19 pandemic and experiencing a risk of homelessness or housing instability.

To apply, the income of a household (all individuals on lease agreement, related or unrelated) must be at or below 80% AMI (area median income).

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Commercial Eviction Moratoriums Expiring Sept. 30

by Community Contributor • September 30, 2021 • Comments Off

On September 30, 2021, the current commercial eviction moratoriums protections in Ventura and Los Angeles Counties will expire. The EDC understands the significant impact COVID-19 has had on our business community. If your business has experienced economic injury due COVID-19, you do not have walk alone.

EDC Recommendations for Landlords & Tenants
NOTE: Both tenants and landlords need to be in communication with one another regarding the tenant’s ability to pay rent. The County of Santa Barbara does not have any commercial tenant protections in place at this time. The information below is still applicable.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — CA Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program closes Sept. 30 at 5 p.m.

by Community Contributor • September 30, 2021 • Comments Off

Rounds 8 and 9 of the California Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program will be closing September 30th! At this time, there are no other additional rounds planned, so do not miss your last opportunity to submit a completed application.

Bilingual report — Civil Grand Jury in Session – Public Complaints Welcome

by Community Contributor • September 30, 2021 • Comments Off

The Ventura County Civil Grand Jury is a panel of 19 local citizen volunteers established to investigate complaints about government mismanagement, verify that public funds are properly accounted for and legally spent, and investigate the policies, practices and processes of county or city departments in order to improve the efficiencies and effectiveness of our government.

Civil Grand Jury investigations can be generated from public complaints. If you have a complaint about county government, cities and special districts (school and water districts, etc.), you are encouraged to file a complaint any time. All complaints are kept confidential.

Bilingual report — COVID-19 Update for Sept. 29

by Community Contributor • September 29, 2021 • Comments Off

Since Monday, there are 234 (140 today) new COVID-19 cases reported and 13,704 new tests performed. There are 63 people hospitalized, 13 in the ICU. There have been 6 additional deaths of a 53 year old male, 68 year old male, 46 year old male, 51 year old male, 50 year old male, and an 87 year old male. Our thoughts are with the family and friends of those who have passed away.

79.3% of Ventura County’s population 12+ has received the first dose.
80.9% of Ventura County’s population 18+ has received the first dose.
72.2% of Ventura County’s population 12+ are fully vaccinated.

96% of total reported COVID-19 deaths in Ventura County were among individuals with comorbidities.

Booster shot information.
COVID test information.
Get your flu shot.

www.vcrecovers.org

Bilingual report — Ventura County Now Administering Pfizer Booster Shots to Eligible Residents

by Community Contributor • September 28, 2021 • Comments Off

Following the Centers for Disease Control and the California Department of Public Health endorsements, eligible County of Ventura residents can begin receiving their booster doses at any sites offering the Pfizer vaccine. The Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 booster vaccine is recommended six months or later following the primary vaccination series for certain individuals.

People previously vaccinated with Pfizer BioNTech whoSHOULD receive a booster include:

Age 65 years and older;
Long term care residents; and
Age 50 through 64 years with underlying medical conditions or at increased risk of social inequities (including communities of color and others at risk of inequities).

Bilingual report — Mayor John Zaragoza Issues Proclamation Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month in Oxnard

by Community Contributor • September 27, 2021 • Comments Off

On Tuesday, Sept. 21, 2021, Mayor John Zaragoza issued a proclamation celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month in Oxnard during the regularly scheduled City Council meeting.

From Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, cities nationwide recognize the cultures and contributions of the Hispanic community while also celebrating the independence days of several Latin American countries.

“In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, I encourage all residents to come together and celebrate through song, dance, and food, and to embrace and understand the customs, traditions and cultures of our friends, family and neighbors,” said Mayor Zaragoza.

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Free Webinar Schedule

by Community Contributor • September 27, 2021 • Comments Off

October 15 @ 12:00 pm

Deborah Deras has spoken to many business owners who say that they hate Social Media because they don’t like using Social Media for personal use or for fun and don’t know the strategy behind Social Media for Sales. Deborah also wrote an eBook “5 Steps to Go From Likes to Sales” and since expanded it to a 7 step system that will help you shift from hating Social Media to Loving it! During this FREE interactive webinar you will discover how to clarify your message so your target market responds to you with a purchase, the SECRET to Social Media success that will cost you zero dollars and much more.

Farmworker Resource Center legislation signed by Gov. Newsom

by Community Contributor • September 24, 2021 • Comments Off

Gov. Gavin Newsom signed legislation Sept. 22 to establish a state-wide program for counties to create farmworker resource centers. Jointly authored by Assemblymembers Steve Bennett and Robert Rivas, and State Sen. Monique Limón, the bill establishes a grant program, funded in the 2021-2022 Budget, which allows counties to apply for funds to establish centers similar to the one created by Ventura County in 2017.

“I appreciate the work and support of my colleagues on this important issue, and I’m gratified by the Governor’s support.” Said Assemblymember Bennett, “The agriculture industry and the State of California need farmworkers who feel valued respected and supported; and this program will enable counties to access funding to support these critical members of our agricultural community.”

Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Happy Hispanic Heritage Month

by Community Contributor • September 23, 2021 • Comments Off

The Economic Development Collaborative would like to recognize National Hispanic Heritage Month. Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15, by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.

Port of Hueneme — The Best in Tech Play at the Port of Hueneme

by Community Contributor • September 23, 2021 • Comments Off

Day two of the open house of the Advanced Naval Technology Exercise (ANTX) and Coastal Trident programs was a success with over 300 people representing partner organizations attending today’s event at the FATHOMWERX Lab located inside the Port of Hueneme.

Port of Hueneme Makes Splash with $5M Economic Development Grant

by Community Contributor • September 22, 2021 • Comments Off

Through a competitive process based on merit, eligibility, and the availability of funds, the Port of Hueneme/Oxnard Harbor District was selected to receive a grant award totaling $5.1 million from the Economic Development Administration (EDA). This Department of Commerce’s EDA investment will provide long-term infrastructure enhancements to maximize facility utilization through dredging in Ventura County — a designated Opportunity Zone.

“This grant award and berth improvement project demonstrate our steadfast commitment to jobs and the environment, once again showing our ability to collectively foster economic growth and environmental stewardship,” said Oxnard Harbor District President, Jason T. Hodge.

County of Ventura COVID-19 Update for Sept. 22, 2021

by Community Contributor • September 22, 2021 • Comments Off

We are so grateful for our amazing Respiratory Therapists! Ramiro Mares, Anait Serobyan, Jessica Rodriguez, and Scott Riegman (left to right) are among the many RTs helping COVID patients with breathing complications. Our daily actions help them. Thank you VC for continuing to do your part!

Santa Barbara First District Supervisor Das Williams — Celebrating National Drive Electric Week & More!

by Community Contributor • September 21, 2021 • Comments Off

Celebrate National Drive Electric Week by attending an Electric Vehicle 101 webinar, e-biking webinar, Goleta or Oxnard EV showcase, or other virtual or live event. As a long-time electric vehicle driver, I can attest to the many benefits of owning an electric vehicle: significantly lower fuel and maintenance costs, various rebates, incentives, and tax credits, and of course reducing your greenhouse gas emissions! See below for some ways to engage and learn more about electric vehicles: