On #LaborDay, we celebrate America’s workforce – the men and women who play a critical role in building a strong economy and propelling it forward.
U.S. Rep. Julia Brownley — I am working for America’s working families!
Category: Government
Community Environmental Council applauds the California Legislature for passing a range of impressive climate bills
The Community Environmental Council applauds the California Legislature for passing a range of impressive climate bills last night. These bills and the federal government’s recent passage of the Inflation Reduction Act provide the strongest tailwinds for climate progress that the United States has ever experienced. We urge the governor to sign these important measures to continue California’s climate and environmental leadership. Where California innovates, other states and nations follow, and 2022 is rapidly becoming the most momentous year for progress toward solving the climate crisis.
Santa Barbara County Food Action Network — Summer E-Blast
Join Rodale Institute for an Organic Field Day at the California Organic Center on Tuesday, August 30 from 10 AM – 3 PM. Learn more about their organic practices and research projects, watch an electric tractor demonstration, and listen to a panel presentation on “Water, Labor and International Competition.” This event is free and perfect for all farmers. Register to attend.
Andria’s Seafood Restaurant & Market named 2022 Small Business of the Year for the 37th Assembly District
Assemblymember Steve Bennett has selected Andria’s Seafood Restaurant & Market as the 2022 Small Business of the Year for the 37th Assembly District.
Andria’s Seafood Restaurant & Market, located in the Ventura Harbor, is one of the oldest continually owned and operated restaurants in Ventura. Michael Wagner started the business 40 years ago for his young daughter Andria who is now heavily involved in the day to day operations of the business. Andria’s accounts for 27% of all restaurant revenue in the Ventura Harbor. This year Michael and Andria celebrated the 40th anniversary of Andria’s Seafood Restaurant & Market.
Bilingual report — County of Ventura News & COVID-19 Update for Aug. 30
If you test positive for COVID-19, there are treatments you can take at home that are safe and effective at preventing severe illness.
Most treatments must be started within 5 days of getting symptoms, so get tested and talk to your health care provider or find a Test to Treat location as soon as you notice symptoms. Your health care provider or Test to Treat site can tell you if you are eligible to receive treatment and which type would work best for you. To find a Test to Treat location near you, or for more information about COVID-19 therapeutics visit: www.vcrecovers.org/therapeutics/. If you are immunocompromised, ask your health care provider today if pre-exposure prevention therapy with Evusheld would be right for you.
Bilingual report — Covered California Announces Second Straight Year of Premium Decreases for Dental Plans
Covered California announced today that the statewide weighted average rate change for dental coverage in 2023 will be a decrease of 1.7 percent, marking the second straight year that premiums have gone down, and continuing the trend of holding costs steady for consumers.
“The pandemic forced many people to put their dental needs on hold, and dentists saw increased cases of cavities, gum disease and stress-related tooth damage,” said Jessica Altman, executive director of Covered California. “The good news is that rates are going down for the second consecutive year, which will help Californians get the dental care they need at a price they can afford.”
Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) free webinar schedule
VENTURA COUNTY SCORE: CYBERSECURITY-PROTECTING YOUR SMALL BUSINESS
August 30 @ 10:30 am
Even small businesses are not immune from the cybersecurity epidemic. In fact, 60% of small businesses that are hit by a cyber-attack go out of business within six months. That said, there are many tools that are available to protect your small business, many are available in your current IT environment. During the first half of the webinar David will take you through some cybersecurity basics, conduct a demo of how a hack actually occurs, and then give you some tips that you can take back to your IT expert or IT vendor to make sure you are doing the right things in securing your business. David will then conduct a Q&A session to answer your most pressing questions.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
Road Closure Due to Bradley Road Bridge Replacement
The Ventura County Public Works Agency (VCPWA) announces the replacement of the Bradley Road Bridge, beginning August 26th, 2022 until November 30th, 2022. The old bridge, built in 1930 will be replaced to bring the structure up to the current safety standards. The public can expect delays. Please avoid the area if possible.
In order to build the new bridge, Bradley Road will undergo the following:
8/26-9/2 – Single lanewill be closed either direction
9/6-11/8 – Full road closure
11/9-11/30 – Single lane will be closed either direction
Bilingual report — State Awards County and Camarillo-Based Casa Pacifica Additional $5.9 Million in Homekey Funds
The State has awarded the County of Ventura an additional $5.9 million in Homekey funds to expand Casa Pacifica Center for Children and Families’ Stepping Stones project in Camarillo in the County’s third Homekey award. Governor Gavin Newsom announced the awarded funding on August 24, 2022, as part of the statewide program, for the renovation of three existing buildings at Casa Pacifica to create 27 new units of transitional housing and high-quality support services for Transition Aged Youth (ages 18-24) who are experiencing homelessness or are at-risk of homelessness.
“This announcement marks great progress towards ending homelessness in Ventura County,” said Acting Chair of the Board of Supervisors Matt LaVere. “Thanks to these significant state funding opportunities that our County has pursued in collaboration with community partners, we can provide homes and supportive services to some of our most vulnerable residents more rapidly.”
Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — Central Coast ZEV Strategy Plan, Air conditioning, Women’s Commissioners and More
Electric cars are the future of transportation, and the number of these vehicles on the road continues to grow. We want to make charging as effortless as possible and need the public’s help to identify opportunities to make it even better and easier to charge on the fly.
Here is one thing you can do to help make a difference in the fight against climate change.
Help us identify sites for more electric vehicle charging stations by leaving a comment or dropping a pin on this interactive online map, www.bit.ly/CCZEV
The goal is to identify ideal locations for NEW public charging stations in six California coastal counties between Ventura, Santa Cruz, and San Benito Counties.
The information gathered from the interactive online mapping tool will help create the Central Coast Zero Emission Vehicle Strategy, a tool to accelerate the adoption of zero-emission vehicles in this region.
More charging stations are needed to recharge vehicles, particularly in rural and traditionally underserved communities.
Learn more at www.centralcoastzevstrategy.com.
Assemblymember Bennett legislation to help local breweries and wineries signed by governor
Assemblymember Steve Bennett (D-Ventura) announced that legislation to assist breweries with duplicative licensing requirements was signed by the Governor on Aug. 26.
“We are honored to have the support of Assemblymember Bennett’s team to update the current Business and Professions Code (Sec 25607) as it pertains to alcoholic beverages. Updating these regulatory laws (AB 1734) allows small Californian producers of beer and wine like Draughtsmen Aleworks the ability to sell the beverages we make at our satellite locations. We are excited to be able to offer all of our craft beers, wines and ciders at our taprooms in Goleta, Santa Barbara and soon Solvang,” said Tami Snow, Partner at Draughtsman Aleworks, “We appreciate the time and attention from Assemblymember Bennett’s staff reviewing and revising these alcohol regulatory laws in order to make them more equitable and easier to understand and to navigate. We and many small businesses like us in California are fortunate to have this type of support from our representative and we are excited that it allows us to grow all our businesses.”
Bilingual report — Metrolink Offers $10 Holiday Pass on Labor Day
As Metrolink’s Summer of Adventure winds down, travelers looking for deals can take advantage of the $10 Holiday Pass this Labor Day. Metrolink encourages everyone to take the train during the long holiday weekend to avoid traffic congestion, save on high gas prices, and to help the Southern California environment.
The $10 Holiday Pass provides unlimited rides throughout the Metrolink train system on Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 5. More information can be found here.
On Saturday and Sunday of the holiday weekend, riders can also save with Metrolink’s $10 Weekend Day Pass that provides unlimited rides throughout the system on the day of purchase. As always, kids 17 and under ride free on weekends with a paying adult. More information about the Weekend Day Pass can be found here.
Non-profits honor California Legislators, including Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin, and staff for advancing circular and equitable economy legislation
Last night, the National Stewardship Action Council (NSAC) and California Product Stewardship Council (CPSC) co-hosted a legislative awards ceremony to honor legislators who introduced and passed groundbreaking waste and toxics reduction and producer responsibility legislation in the 2021-2022 legislative session, sponsored by Atlantic Packaging and CPSC funders.
“The 2021 – 2022 legislative session has been the most productive yet for passing high-bar legislation to eliminate toxic and wasteful products, bring truth in recycling labeling, and ensure producers are responsible for the end-of-life impacts of their products” said Heidi Sanborn, Executive Director of NSAC, “We wanted to celebrate State Treasurer Fiona Ma who has been a champion for a Circular Economy for two decades and the legislative leaders and staff who worked so hard to make this very successful session a reality.”
Ventura County Office of Education — What to Expect in the New School Year
By the end of this month, nearly 130,000 students from all corners of Ventura County will have returned to class for the 2022-2023 school year. It’s hard to believe, but this is the fourth school year in a row to be impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The good news is that we’ve come a long way from the days of remote learning and mandatory masking. This year, students will again be learning in person, masks will be optional, and most school activities will take place without restrictions.
Bilingual report — EDC’s Economic 411 Labor Market Report for July 2022
The California Labor Market Information Division (LMID) released its July 2022 report on Friday, Ventura County’s unemployment rate remaining unchanged from June to July at 3.2%, a bit off from our low of 2.7% in May, but still at an extraordinary low. The County benefitted from gains in several sectors—Construction, Manufacturing, Professional & Business Services, Private Education & Health Services, Leisure & Hospitality and Other Services—but on net the gains were overshadowed by large declines in Farm, down by 2,800 jobs, and Public Education, down for summer break by 3,500 jobs. For more on the labor force and specific gains and losses in jobs, see below; for the July data, click here.
Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Free Webinar Schedule
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT BOARD OF VENTURA COUNTY WEBINAR AND CALIFORNIA EMPLOYERS ASSOCIATION: RECRUITING IN A POST-COVID WORLD
August 23 @ 10:00 am
Are you having a difficult time finding qualified people to hire back to work now that many COVID restrictions are easing up? This training shows how the pandemic has changed recruiting and gives you tips on how to market, interview and follow-up to get the best candidates to fill your job requirements.
Guest Commentary — Carmen Ramirez: An American Icon
The death of Carmen Ramirez: The tragic death this week of our dear friend, Carmen Ramirez has left many in the city of Oxnard, the county of Ventura, the state of California, the nation, and throughout world in pain, sorrow and shock. That’s how much this Chicano guerillera meant to all of us that knew her, worked with her, loved and admired her. Dr. Debbie DeVries, one of Carmen’s closest friends, speaking through the shock, the acute pain, and mental fog of the moment remarked to me that, “Carmen was the most caring, selfless, mindful, loving and kind person I have ever had the honor of knowing and working with. Carmen never made decisions based on political or personal self-interest aggrandizement.”
Bilingual report — County Mourns the Loss of the Chair of the Board of Supervisors, Carmen Ramirez
On Friday evening, August 12, 2022, we learned of the tragic loss of the Honorable Chair of the Board, District 5 Supervisor Carmen Ramirez. Supervisor Ramirez passed away Friday following injuries she sustained as a pedestrian hit by a vehicle in Oxnard. We extend our sincere condolences to her family, friends, staff, and the communities she so admirably served. We honor her life and her historic and lasting contributions to the Oxnard and Ventura County community.
Carmen was a public servant in the truest sense of the term,” said District 1 Vice-Chair of the Board of Supervisors Matt LaVere. “Through her leadership and community engagement, thousands of lives were changed for the better. Carmen was one of a kind, and we will deeply miss her presence on the Board. It was an honor to call her a close friend and confidant.”
“Carmen was an incredible champion for the people and the environment,” said District 2 Supervisor Linda Parks. “What stood out when you met her was her compassion and kindness. What made her effective was her fearlessness, her clear moral compass, her intelligence and her always volunteering to do more. She was a true public servant and a best friend. We are so blessed to have had her in our lives.”
“Carmen Ramirez was a respected leader in our County and demonstrated this over and over again by providing pro-bono legal services to those in need and serving as an elected official for the residents of Oxnard,” said District 3 Supervisor Kelly Long. “Her passion for helping the underserved will never be forgotten and will undoubtedly be picked up by the many individuals she inspired along the way. May she rest in peace knowing she made a significant impact on the quality of life for many Ventura County residents.”
Gold Coast Health Plan Reaches Settlement with Federal Regulators
Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP) has reached a mediated settlement with federal regulators on a 7-year-old dispute regarding disbursements of Medicaid funding to network providers for the benefit of the then-newly eligible adult expansion population resulting from the implementation of the Affordable Care Act. Under the mediated settlement agreement, GCHP agreed to pay $17.2 million – about 24% of the total settlement – and enter into a Corporate Integrity Agreement (CIA) with federal regulators.
The settlement reflects a compromise resolution of a multi-year disagreement between GCHP and the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Office of Inspector General (OIG) for the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) over the appropriate amount of disbursements to its providers under the Adult Expansion Program.
“Although Gold Coast Health Plan believes that its disbursements to providers under this program were lawful and proper, we agreed to participate in a mediation with the regulators to reach a settlement to prevent an expensive and protracted process,” said Nick Liguori, GCHP’s chief executive officer. “The settlement reflects a compromise that will finally and fully resolve this dispute.”
Local Kids Get Jump Start on Back-to-School Resources
The Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara (HACSB) in partnership with 2nd Story Associates hosted Tools for Schools Saturday, August 13, 2022 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Presidio Springs (721 Laguna Street, Santa Barbara 93101).
Now in its tenth year, the “Tools for School” event provided school supplies and backpacks for low-income children and families in the Santa Barbara area. During this event, HACSB youth and families received a FREE backpack, school supplies, and learned about valuable resources and services for them and their families.
Bilingual report — Covered California Hails the Signing of the Inflation Reduction Act, Which Will Continue to Provide Lower Costs and Expanded Access to Quality Health Insurance for Californians
The Inflation Reduction Act extends the increased financial help initially provided by the American Rescue Plan through the end of 2025. The increased subsidies expanded health care coverage, leading to record enrollment in California and across the nation, and lowered…
Bilingual report — County of Ventura Mourning The Loss Of Honorable Chair Carmen Ramirez
VENTURA COUNTY — Our County mourns the loss of our Chair of the Board of Supervisors, Carmen Ramirez. Chair Ramirez was a pedestrian involved in a vehicle accident in Oxnard and passed away Friday evening, August 12, 2022. We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family, loved ones, and her City and County community. An additional statement will be forthcoming.
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CONDADO DE VENTURA – – Nuestro Condado lamenta la pérdida de nuestra presidenta de la Junta de Supervisores, Carmen Ramírez. Carmen Ramírez fue peatón involucrada en un accidente de automóvil en Oxnard y falleció viernes 12 de agosto de 2022 por la noche. Compartimos nuestro más sentido pésame a su familia, seres queridos y su comunidad de la ciudad y el condado. Próximamente publicaremos información adicional.
Ventura County Civic Alliance Livable Communities Newsletter – August 15, 2022
“As seen in these three excerpts from our 2021 State of the Region report, Ventura County is making some progress getting to the transportation structure required to be a livable community, but there is much more that needs to be done”.
We ended our Livable Communities Newsletter in May with the statement above. This quarter, we decided to step back and look at bigger pictures of transportation that can inform Ventura County’s transportation planning.
Seeking this bigger picture took us to three mini-reports from recent editions of Public Square, a regularly scheduled Journal of the Congress for the New Urbanism (CNU). These reports provide a much bigger picture of what Ventura County needs to understand before we plan our next transportation improvements.
In order to GET THE FULL STORY you need to click the links for each article at the end of the introduction. The articles are short “easy reads” that you should find fascinating and energizing!
Bilingual report — List of City, School District and Special District Offices In Extended Nomination Period for Nov. 8, 2022, General Election
Ventura County Clerk-Recorder, Registrar of Voters Mark Lunn announced the extension of the nomination period for the following City, School District and Special District offices that are scheduled to be voted on in the November 8, 2022 General Election. The extended nomination period will close on Wednesday, August 17, 2022, at 5:00 p.m. The extension does not apply to incumbents.
CITIES
The nomination period extension for City offices applies to the following:
Fillmore City Council (Full term, Short term)
Moorpark Mayor
Ojai City Council, District 1
San Buenaventura (Ventura) City Council, Districts 1 and 5
Santa Paula City Council
Simi Valley Mayor
Thousand Oaks City Council
Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Are You Prepared for the Next Big Disaster?
Economic Development Collaborative is partnering with the California Business, Consumer Services and Housing Agency, the California Academy for Economic Development and Edison International to promote the statewide Outsmart Disaster campaign, which equips businesses with the tools and resources they need to be prepared for disaster. Here’s two ways you can take immediate action for your business:
Take the Resilient Business Challenge – a self-guided, five-step process to help your business become more resilient. CLICK HERE
Watch a recording of a Disaster Resiliency Clinic and receive a walkthrough of the basics of preparedness and the campaign’s Resilient Business Challenge. CLICK HERE
Bilingual report — County of Ventura Celebrates National Child Support Awareness Month
August is recognized nationwide as Child Support Awareness Month. August serves as a time to recognize and celebrate the vital role the child support program plays in promoting the safety and well-being of children. Statewide, California provides support services to one million children—helping families thrive and setting children up to succeed.
The Ventura County Department of Child Support Services (VCDCSS) recognizes that children are our community’s legacy and future. VCDCSS promotes children’s health and well-being by encouraging responsible parenting, understanding parental support, and involvement in children’s lives, which helps drive positive child development outcomes.
Bilingual report — Cultural Relations Commission Accepting Nominations for 2022 Community Recognition Awards Program
The City’s Community Relations Commission (CRC) announces that nominations are now being accepted for the 2022 Community Recognition Awards Program. Since 1989 the CRC awards program has recognized deserving individuals and groups that have furthered human relations in the Oxnard community.
“We look forward to celebrating the individuals and organizations that represent the best of Oxnard – acceptance, courage, and a determination to highlight the good in our community,” said CRC Chair Adam Lopez.
The public is invited to nominate youth, seniors, individuals, businesses and non-profit organizations that have demonstrated outstanding accomplishments in the Oxnard community.
The deadline to submit nominations is Friday, September 9, 2022 by 5 p.m.
Bilingual report — County of Ventura update for Aug. 9, 2022 — Monkeypox Update & COVID-19
Make sure kids are up-to-date on their COVID-19 vaccines before the start of school! Children 5 and older are eligible for vaccine boosters. Learn more at https://schools.covid19.ca.gov/. For information about COVID-19 vaccines, testing and treatments, visit www.vcrecovers.org.
Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — County Hiring Hot Springs Trail Assistants, CCCE Impact Report, and More
The Community Services Department is currently accepting applications to fill two Hot Springs Trail Assistant vacancies in Santa Barbra at the Hot Springs Trail. This position is important in promoting better relations between trail users and residents near the trail, and a part of the County’s responsibility protecting the public safety of both groups.
This is a great opportunity for weekend and evening work. These positions will be communicating trail usage rules and regulations with trail users and enforcing rules and regulations.
Bilingual report — County of Ventura Celebrates National Certified Farmers’ Market Week
County Supervisors, at their Tuesday, July 26, 2022, Board meeting, proclaimed August 7 – 13, 2022, as Certified Farmers’ Market Week in Ventura County. This coincides with National Farmers’ Market Week.
There are one hundred and twenty-seven certified local farmers and ranchers that provide Ventura County consumers with access to healthy foods produced locally through fourteen certified farmers’ markets, which accommodate the demand for a diverse variety of fruits, vegetables, nursery stock, meat, cheese and other agricultural products.
Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Free Webinar Schedule
IN-PERSON EVENT: SANTA BARBARA COUNTY SCORE: BOOKKEEPING BASICS: TIPS AND TOOLS FOR STARTUPS AND SMALL BUSINESSES
August 18 @ 10:00 am
As a small business, it’s important to get your head around company finances in order to maximize profits and margins. This can only be accomplished when your bookkeeping is in order. During this interactive session, Accounting Expert, Juliana Ramirez, will walk you through small business bookkeeping and small company accounting tips and tools to help you ensure your bookkeeping is in order and move your business forward as you start, maintain, and grow. Address: Workzones Santa Barbara, 351 Paseo Nuevo, Fl 2, Santa Barbara, CA, 93101.
Santa Barbara County First District Supervisor Das Williams — First Monkeypox Case Detected in Santa Barbara County
As you may be aware, on August 1, Governor Newsom proclaimed a State of Emergency to Support our State’s Response to Monkeypox (MPX). Today, Santa Barbara County has had its first confirmed case of Monkeypox. Our county has been preparing for this eventuality. This person has been isolated for the past seven days and will be quarantined. Our Public Health Department is prepared to activate its Infectious Disease Emergency Response (IDER) plan if/when the Disease Control program receives 3-5 confirmed cases within a 14-day period. This is the level the Disease Control program would need to access additional resources. There is a vaccination that helps to protect against monkeypox when given before or shortly after exposure. The vaccine supply is very limited and Santa Barbara County has only received 40 doses of the JYNNEOS Vaccine. The Public Health Department expects to receive a second allocation later in the summer. Vaccine supply will gradually increase later this year, but current supplies remain low.
County of Ventura Elections Office seeking volunteers for Language Accessibility Advisory Committee
The County of Ventura Elections Office seeking citizen volunteers to serve on a Language Accessibility Advisory Committee Committee (LAAC) in Ventura County.
The next quarterly meeting will be held on Wednesday, Aug. 24, 2022, at 10:30 a.m. We will be conducting the meeting via the Zoom web conference platform. Attached is a flyer for you to share with your organizations.
Bilingual report — Board of Supervisors Appoints Dr. Sevet Johnson as County Executive Officer
Following a nationwide recruitment, the County of Ventura Board of Supervisors has unanimously appointed Dr. Sevet Johnson as the County Executive Officer. The Board of Supervisors announced the appointment following a special meeting.
“Our Board thanks Dr. Johnson for accepting this offer of employment and for leading our County during this time of transition,” said Chair of the Board of Supervisors Carmen Ramirez. “We are confident she is the right person to lead our County.”
Port of Hueneme Announces Return of Much-Anticipated Banana Festival
It is time to go bananas at the Port of Hueneme when it opens its port to the public for the 12th annual Banana Festival on Saturday, September 24, 2022 from 10 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Roaring back after a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this family-friendly festival promises to provide the community with a fun-filled day of entertainment, banana-themed food and drinks, harbor boat rides, land tours of the Port, vendor booths, activities, and more. The Banana Festival is free and is open to the public and will highlight the various contributions and positive impact the Port has made locally, regionally, and across the world.
Bilingual report — COVID-19 & County Update for Aug. 2, 2022
Since Tuesday, July 26, there have been 1,751 new COVID-19 cases reported and 17,959 new tests completed. There are 73 people hospitalized and 10 in the ICU. There have been 6 new deaths of a 62 year old male, 62 year old male, 74 year old male, an 80 year old female, 90 year old female, and a 95 year old female. We extend our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of the community members who have passed.
The R-effective for Ventura County is 0.94, which means that the spread of COVID is likely stable. The R-effective for California is 0.98.
73.8% of the total county population has been fully vaccinated (completed initial COVID vaccine series).
Port of Hueneme — DOCK TALK – Port News and Events – You’re Invited!
We now have a 24/7 Hotline for the Community! We are open to your comments and feedback at all times of day and night.
We will listen to this hotline’s voice messages box during our regular business hours. We look forward to hearing from you.
Feel free to call us at (805) 986-1148.
Bilingual report — County Of Ventura Ranked a Top Ten Digital County in the Nation by Center for Digital Government and National Association of Counties
The County of Ventura has ranked eighth among digital counties nationwide by the Center for Digital Government (CDG) and the National Association of Counties (NACo). Ventura County’s Information Technology Services (ITS) Department was awarded in the 20th annual Digital Counties Survey for being an information technology leader amongst counties with populations of 500,000 – 999,999, after Gwinnett County, Georgia, followed by Polk County, Florida, and County of Chester, Pennsylvania.
“We are proud that our County continues to be a leader in technology and innovation and are grateful for this special recognition,” said Interim County Executive Officer Dr. Sevet Johnson. “It reflects the dedication of our ITS Department and entire county team in finding new and efficient ways to serve our community. Looking ahead, we remain committed to leveraging technology and key collaborations to help close the digital divide so that all community members have equitable access to digital services.”
Bilingual report — Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Employee Retention Tax Credit
Having trouble viewing this email? Click here Para leer este boletín en español, haga clic aquí EMPLOYEE RETENTION TAX CREDIT The Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC) is a refundable credit that businesses can claim on qualified wages, including certain health…
Bilingual report — County of Ventura’s Department of Agriculture/Weights and Measures Releases 2021 Crop and Livestock Report
The County of Ventura’s Department of Agriculture/Weights and Measures presented the 2021 Crop and Livestock Report to the Board of Supervisors at Tuesday’s meeting. Agricultural Commissioner and Sealer Ed Williams reported the value of crops for the county for 2021 was $2,085,999,000, an increase of 5% from 2020. Strawberries, lemons, and nursery stock remained the highest valued crops, followed by raspberries, avocados, and celery. For the second consecutive year, the report has been published in Spanish.
“It is good to see the gross values for Ventura County’s crops rising again compared to the bit of a slump in 2020 due to the pandemic,” said Williams. “Production costs have increased, and growers must receive a good return on their investments for farming to continue. The impact of farming and ranching goes far beyond the farm gate by providing jobs for processors, marketers, transporters, farm supply companies, and restaurants, to name a few, and especially the tens of thousands of farmworkers who provide the skill and foundation to make it all possible. I deeply appreciate the many people who play a key role in keeping Ventura County’s agriculture thriving.”
Bilingual report — Getting Help with Child Support Just Got Easier in Ventura County
The County of Ventura’s Department of Child Support Services has launched a new Simplified Enrollment Process for parents to easily enroll for child support services. The new Simplified Enrollment Process streamlines the application, enhances user-friendliness, and aims to increase the completion rate for those seeking services from the Department. Parents will benefit from a faster enrollment process and the support of an online automated assistant that helps parents with the enrollment process.
“We know that parental support and involvement in children’s lives drives positive outcomes—so anything we can do to make accessing our services easier for parents will help children and families in our community thrive,” said Marcus R. Mitchell, Director of the Ventura County Department of Child Support Services.
Bilingual report — Mayor and City Councilmembers Welcome Dallas Cowboys Back to Oxnard for 2022 Training Camp
Oxnard Mayor John C. Zaragoza and the City Council welcome the Dallas Cowboys back for their 16th training camp in Oxnard. The City has hosted America’s Team nearly every year since 2001 for all, or a portion of, its annual training camp.
“We’re always excited to host the Cowboys, and we welcome all of the visiting fans to Oxnard. Whether it’s your first time here, or your 16th, we know you are going to have a great time,” said Mayor Zaragoza.
The Cowboys Training Camp at the River Ridge Playing Fields (2501 Ventura Rd., Oxnard) is free and open to the public. The action starts with the Cowboys first practice on Wednesday, July 27 at 11:30 a.m. Fans are invited to all practice sessions that are open to the public, with the final one scheduled on Wednesday, August 10.
WVCBA Announces Winners of 2022 Oxnard Community & Business Awards
The West Ventura County Business Alliance (WVCBA) is thrilled to announce 10 recipients of its annual Oxnard Community & Business Awards, which will be celebrated on Thursday, August 18, at 11:30 am at historic Heritage Square in Downtown Oxnard.
Now in its 72nd year, the Community & Business Awards honors outstanding individuals, businesses and organizations that make Oxnard a wonderful community to live, work and do business in. Nominations are submitted by the public and reviewed by a selection committee. In addition to the nominations, the WVCBA Executive Committee of the Board of Directors selects an individual, business or organization to receive the Oxnard Trophy for bringing recognition to Oxnard and bettering the community.
American Medical Response Ventura County and Gold Coast Ambulance Are Prepared to Respond to County’s RFP for Services
At the July 26, 2022, Ventura County Board of Supervisors meeting, the board voted to place the emergency ambulance service contract out for competitive bid. The current contract for American Medical Response (AMR) Ventura County, and its affiliate Gold Coast Ambulance, is up in 2024, with two one-year extensions at the County’s option, if needed, to 2026.
“AMR Ventura County and Gold Coast Ambulance are proud to have provided our amazing community with more than 70 years of reliable, high-quality medical care and emergency transport services,” said Mike Sanders, regional director of AMR Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties. “As with any long-term contract, we understand and respect the decision for the County to go out to bid — this ensures an equitable process.”
Bilingual report — COVID-19 & County of Ventura Update
Congratulations to Westminster Free Clinic’s student volunteers for completing over one year of service! The Board of Supervisors recognized the students’ accomplishments at this morning’s meeting. More than 200 high school students participate in WFC’s rigorous two-year program that builds excellent job skills in the health care profession by assisting volunteer medical professionals in the delivery of primary health services to over 12,000 low-income uninsured residents annually.
Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Labor Market Report for June 2022
The California Labor Market Information Division (LMID) released its June 2022 report on Friday, Ventura County losing a bit of ground from our unprecedented low unemployment rates the last two months, slipping up in June to 3.2%, from our low of 2.7% in May. While our overall job gains in June were low, which is somewhat discouraging, our rise in the unemployment rate is mostly seasonal, from a drop in Farm jobs and also tied to the summer slowdown in education.
Bilingual report — County of Ventura Public Health Department Confirms First Case of Monkeypox in Ventura County July 22, 2022
Ventura County Public Health (VCPH) officials are investigating the first documented case of Monkeypox in Ventura County, however the risk to general public is still considered low.
VCPH received a confirmed case of Monkeypox virus infection in an adult earlier this morning after testing was completed at a local lab.
VCPH is conducting contact tracing with the patient to identify anyone who may be at risk due to direct close contact with the patient while infectious. People with direct close contact are being asked to watch for symptoms of illness.
Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) — Free Webinar Schedule
BUSINESS RESOURCES FOR VETERANS FROM THE SBA
August 2 @ 12:00 pm
Did you know that the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has resources and programs for Veterans and the military community? If you are a transitioning or active-duty service member, National Guard or Reserve member, veteran of any era or military spouse, the SBA is here to help. Through training programs, contracting opportunities and access to capital, the SBA is here to help your business start, grow, expand or recover. You can access the SBA’s Veteran resources through the Southern California Veteran’s Business Outreach Center!
United Way of Ventura County provides permanent homes for 110 households
United Way of Ventura County’s Landlord Engagement Program has officially provided permanent housing for 110 local households with a 96% retention rate. This means 188 individuals, including 45 veterans, now have a place to call home in the Ventura County community.
Homelessness and housing challenges have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, and limited affordable housing supply, extremely low vacancy rates, and rising rents make the situation increasingly challenging. UWVC’s Landlord Engagement Program advocates for and supports those prioritized for housing vouchers and housing subsidies provided by local jurisdictions and community partners.
Bilingual report — Covered California Announces 2023 Plan Rates: Lower Than National Average Amid Uncertain Future of American Rescue Plan Benefits
Covered California announced its plans and rates for the 2023 coverage year. The preliminary weighted average rate change is an increase of 6 percent, due in part to the return of a normal medical trend that existed prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the potential end of the increased and expanded financial help offered to eligible consumers through the American Rescue Plan, if Congress does not extend the law before it expires at the end of the year.
“Covered California’s competitive marketplace continues to hold the line on rates that are well below the national average, keeping coverage within reach and giving Californians new choices,” said Jessica Altman, executive director of Covered California. “However, without an extension of the expanded financial help provided by the American Rescue Plan, Californians will receive less financial help next year and see their monthly payments rise as a result.”
Bilingual report — Ventura County Assessor’s Office to Mail Assessed Value Notices Next Week
The Assessor’s Office is preparing to send out, by mail, approximately 250,000 assessed value notices to taxpayers in Ventura County early next week. The notices inform owners of their property’s taxable value as of January 1, 2022. About 200,000 notices will be postcards showing the 2% increase in value due to Proposition 13.
Bilingual report — COVID-19 & County of Ventura Update
As of Tuesday, July 19, there have been 1,293 new COVID-19 cases reported and 8,696 new tests completed since Friday, July 15. There are 87 people hospitalized and 7 people in the ICU. There have been 3 new deaths of females ages 86, 87, and 101. We extend our sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of the community members who have passed away.
The R-effective for Ventura County is 1.12, which means that the spread of COVID is likely increasing. The R-effective for California is 1.13.
84.9% of eligible community members (ages 5+) have received a 1st COVID vaccine dose
77.8% of eligible community members (ages 5+) have been fully vaccinated
COVID-19 summary data is now updated Tuesdays and Fridays at www.vcrecovers.org.
Take steps to protect yourself and your family.
Ventura County’s level of COVID-19 transmission is high. Hospitalizations have increased but are not currently overwhelming our hospital systems. Masks are strongly recommended in all public indoor settings in Ventura County.
Quick links:
• Schedule a COVID vaccine or booster appointment at https://myturn.ca.gov/ or call 833-422-4255
• Find a free state testing site: https://www.venturacountyrecovers.org/coronavirus-testing/
• Get the latest on state masking guidance: https://covid19.ca.gov/masks-and-ppe/
• View California’s isolation and quarantine guidance.
• If you are at high risk and test positive, talk to your doctor about accessing treatments. Most state testing sites offer treatments on site for uninsured residents. Access COVID treatment information at https://www.venturacountyrecovers.org/therapeutics/.
Stay up to date at www.vcrecovers.org.
Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) Business Alert — California Competes Tax Credit and Grant Program
The California Competes Tax Credit (CCTC) is an income tax credit available to businesses that want to locate in California or stay and grow in California. Businesses of any industry, size, or location compete for over $180 million available in tax credits by applying in one of the three application periods each year. Applicants will be analyzed based on twelve different factors of evaluation, including number of full-time jobs being created, amount of investment, and strategic importance to the state or region.
Application Period Timeline: For the remainder of the 2022-2023, applications for the California Competes Tax Credit will be accepted during the following periods:
July 25, 2022 – August 15, 2022
January 3, 2023 – January 23, 2023
March 6, 2023 – March 20, 2023
Consulado de Mexico en Oxnard — Programa donación de libros de texto gratuito en español 2022
Bilingual report — Offices and Nomination Period Announced for Nov. 8, 2022 General Election
Ventura County Clerk-Recorder, Registrar of Voters Mark Lunn announced the offices eligible for the upcoming November 8, 2022 General Election. The 2022 General Election is a non-partisan run-off election for the state, federal and county top-two contest finishers who ran in the June 7, 2022 Statewide Direct Primary Election. It is also the regular election for municipal, special district and school district races.
The nomination period for the municipal, special, and school district candidates runs from July 18, 2022, through August 12, 2022. If the incumbent in one of these races does not file by close of business on August 12, the nomination period will be extended an additional five days ending August 17, 2022. It should be noted that newly formed district offices (from previously at-large seats) do not have incumbents and therefore will not have an extension period.
“We are seeing more and more interest in local races in recent years, both from voters and possible candidates,” said Lunn. “We want to make sure anyone interested in running for a city office, school district or a special district is aware that, even though the election isn’t until November, they need to start reviewing the process right away. The deadlines come up quickly.”
Bilingual commentary — When Facts Don’t Matter
For the past two and a half years, I have tried every way imaginable to understand how election deniers think. Of course, I’m referring to those who are convinced, or have convinced themselves, that the 2020 presidential election was stolen from Donald Trump. Why do they so stubbornly refuse to accept Trump’s defeat despite the unambiguous evidence proving that he did indeed lose?
Before we attempt to answer that question, here are several noteworthy facts:
Bilingual report — County of Ventura launches an electronic General Plan platform and releases Spanish version for greater accessibility County Launches an Electronic General Plan Platform and Releases Spanish version for Greater Accessibility
The County of Ventura has launched an electronic version of the 2040 General Plan and released a Spanish version to enhance community accessibility. The 2040 General Plan was adopted by the Board of Supervisors on September 15, 2020. Following its adoption, the Resource Management Agency’s Planning Division included in its Work Plan the development of an electronic web-based General Plan (e-General Plan) and translation of the General Plan into Spanish, based on community feedback. The expanded features and language accessibility aim to provide an easier experience for community members to better understand how Ventura County will grow and change in the next 20 years.
“We are grateful to provide a more accessible experience for community members given the extensive community feedback we have heard around the importance of accessing critical information about the future of our county,” said Chair of the Board of Supervisors Carmen Ramirez.
First District Supervisor Das Williams — Fire Community Meeting Update, Clean Air Grant Funding, DIY Home Energy Savings, and more
The Montecito Fire Department and Santa Barbara County Office of Emergency Management will conduct a test of the County of Santa Barbara’s #ReadySBCAlerts emergency notification system across
the Montecito Fire District on July 21, 2022 at 11 a.m.
Click here to check if you live in the Montecito Fire District
The purpose of the test is to update contact information for all Montecito residents and verify that opted-in community members receive ReadySBC Alerts without issue.
In order to receive the test alert, YOU MUST REGISTER at ReadySBC.org.
Details about the July 21 test of ReadySBC Alerts are here https://bit.ly/3OTgyXB
Bilingual report — From Student Worker to Executive Leadership at Ventura County Public Works Agency
Matt Ehret, a 20-year employee with the Ventura County Public Works Agency (VCPWA), has been promoted to Deputy Director for Design and Construction within Watershed Protection (WP). His new role involves planning and managing environmentally responsible flood protection and stormwater management assets throughout the County as well as making continuous improvements to the flood alert system.
Ehret has a unique history with the County. He started his career with VCPWA as a student worker. Upon completing his bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, he was hired in the Advanced Planning Section of WP, working his way up to the position of Project Engineer.
“It has been a great journey, from student worker through many steps of learning, plus ongoing training in our True North — Dedicated to Innovation and Excellence,” says Ehret. “VCPWA has exceptional leadership and provides employees a way to grow and achieve. I’m excited to return to WP Design and Construction in a new capacity as I’m still committed to designing and building flood control facilities to serve Ventura County.”
California Congresswoman Brownley Visits Ventura Port District To Celebrate the Federal Appropriation of Over $5 Million Towards Ventura Harbor Dredging
California Congresswoman Julia Brownley, U.S. representative of California 26th District, recently visited the Ventura Port District to celebrate the federal appropriation of $5,516,000 for the maintenance dredging of Ventura Harbor. This is one of the Congresswoman’s ten Community Funded Projects which was included in the Fiscal Year 2022 Omnibus and was supported by Senators Dianne Feinstein and Alex Padilla. The Community Project Funding supplements the funding made available for the project in the President’s Budget and ensures that the entrance to Ventura Harbor will be well cared for through the next dredging cycle in early 2023. The check was presented to the Chair and Vice-Chair of the Ventura Board of Port Commissioners, Chris Stephens and Michael Blumenberg.
“Since first being elected to Congress, I have been tireless in my work to secure funding for the dredging and maintenance of Ventura County’s harbors. The dredging of Ventura Harbor is essential to ensuring continued operations of this critical West Coast fishing hub,” stated Congresswoman Brownley. “The annual funding is vital to ensuring that the harbor’s federally authorized channel remains open to those who rely upon the harbor, including the commercial fishing industry and supply chain businesses.