he next regular meeting of the
County Board of Supervisors is scheduled for
9 a.m. Tuesday, April 1, 2025
County Administration Building
Board Hearing Room, Fourth Floor
105 East Anapamu Street, Santa Barbara
The public may participate virtually, or in person at the County Board Hearing Room in Santa Barbara or Santa Maria.
The draft Fire Hazard Severity Zone map for Ventura provides an updated assessment of local fire hazards and will help guide local fire prevention efforts, inform building regulations, and support emergency response planning. The map updates previous version approved in 2011 to reflect current fire risk conditions and new data. Hazard areas are rated moderate, high, and very high depending on the factors that contribute to fire behavior, like historical fire patterns, vegetation growth, weather, and terrain, among others.
VENTURA — The Ventura Fire Department is proud to announce the launch of a new fleet of cardiac monitor defibrillators, marking a significant advancement in emergency medical care for the community.
The department has acquired 20 new LIFEPAK 35 devices, ensuring every fire unit is equipped with a monitor and replacing older models that have served the department for the past 15 years. To support the purchase, City leaders approved an investment of $1.28 million from the General Fund in July 2024. The department began field testing the new units in January 2025 to ensure a smooth transition before full deployment.
VENTURA — Recognizing the critical need for community members to be prepared and confident in taking appropriate action, the City of Ventura, in collaboration with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and the City of Santa Paula, is excited to announce the return of its Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training program in May 2025.
This free, hands-on program empowers 40 local residents with critical disaster response skills, preparing them to take action when it matters most. Applications are open to Ventura and Santa Paula residents and will be accepted through Wednesday, May 7, 2025.
A team led by UCSB researchers highlights the importance of monitoring shark populations and combining different strategies for managing their numbers.
VENTURA — Just over 100 days after the Mountain Fire began, the Ventura County Environmental Health Division and the Mountain Fire Incident Management Team are pleased to report substantial progress in recovery efforts. A total of 100 properties have completed…
THOUSAND OAKS — Firefighters have moved into Ventura County Fire Dept.’s brand-new Fire Station 34, located at Avenida de los Arboles and Mountclef Blvd. in Thousand Oaks. This state-of-the-art facility enhances our ability to serve the community with modern amenities and room for future growth.
“We are pleased to make this move to a .gov domain, which signals to our community that the County of Ventura is committed to cybersecurity and generating public trust,” said Terry Theobald, Chief Information Officer. “Our new domain will provide an easily identifiable and reliable resource for anyone looking to interact with county government online.”
SANTA PAULA — 31 years have passed since the tragic murder of Eric Velasquez, a bright and ambitious 21-year-old student from Ventura, California, whose life was cut short on March 7, 1994. Despite the time that has elapsed, his case remains unsolved, and his family continues their relentless pursuit of justice.
Eric was known for his academic achievements, artistic talents, and kind heart. He was pursuing a degree in business with dreams of attending law school before his life was tragically taken. On the night of his murder, Eric was walking to his car in Santa Paula after dropping a friend off when he was shot and killed.
For decades, his family has endured the unimaginable pain of losing their beloved son and brother. Eric’s mother, Susan Ventura, has worked tirelessly to keep his memory alive and to seek justice. Her persistence led to the Governor of California offering a $50,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction in Eric’s case.
“Tommy was part of our fire family for nearly 10 years, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with us in response to our community’s public safety needs,” Fire Chief Dustin Gardner said. “We now stand with Tommy’s mother, Diana Minadeo; fiancé, Vanessa Gubbels; brother, Anthony; and his sister, in grieving his passing and supporting each other.”
VENTURA — Episode 10 of the Ventura Voices podcast is now available, featuring an in-depth conversation with Ventura Fire Chief David Endaya and Ventura Water General Manager Gina Dorrington. This timely episode explores how the City of Ventura prepares for, responds to, and recovers from wildfire emergencies, offering insights from two critical departments responsible for public safety and essential services.
SANTA BARBARA — In a landmark legal victory, a California judge has certified a class action lawsuit against Valley Crest, a commercial cannabis cultivation facility in Carpinteria, allowing residential property owners within a one-mile radius of the operation to collectively seek damages for the persistent and pervasive cannabis odors invading their properties. This ruling is the first of its kind in California, setting a powerful precedent for future cases against cannabis growers who fail to control malodors impacting residential communities.
THOUSAND OAKS — The Ventura County Fire Department (VCFD) and the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) plan to conduct a prescribed burn in Adams Canyon, north of Santa Paula, on March 4, 2025, weather permitting. This controlled burn is part of ongoing efforts to improve ecosystem health and reduce wildfire risk. This prescribed burn was initially scheduled for November 18-21, 2024.
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VENTURA — The Ventura Police Department (VPD) is excited to announce that applications are now open for the next class of its teen Explorer Program. Apply online at www.cityofventura.ca.gov/Explorers.
Since its launch, the program has successfully mentored over 50 local students, with 8 graduates going on to become part-time police cadets and many more pursuing law enforcement and public service-related education. Since its launch in 2022, Explorers have contributed more than 4,200 hours of volunteer service in Ventura County, assisting at community events like the Aut2Run, X-Games, Strawberry Festival, Ventura County Fair, and dozens of Ventura PD events.
PORT HUENEME — In a monumental step toward sustainability and environmental stewardship, the Port of Hueneme and NYK Line have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to establish a Green Automotive Shipping Corridor between Japan and Southern California. The signing ceremony took place on February 12, 2025, at the Port of Hueneme, marking the continuation of an exciting collaboration aimed at driving both innovation and environmental progress.
We have experienced devastating fires in the last seven years and this bill aims to address the issues we have seen in water delivery,” stated 1st District Supervisor Matt LaVere. ““Supporting AB 367 is a critical step toward ensuring our community has the resources needed to fight fires even in the most challenging circumstances.”
SANTA BARBARA — Friends General Conference (FGC), a national Quaker organization, joined multiple religious organizations in challenging the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) reversal of the sensitive locations policy, which previously limited immigration enforcement actions at places of worship. The Santa Barbara Friends Meeting (SBFM) as an affiliate of FGC, joined this legal challenge.
We are an unprogrammed meeting of Quakers and we reaffirm that our house of worship serves as a sanctuary for all. The belief that God is within every person has powerful ramifications.
VENTURA — The Ventura Police Department Traffic Unit will conduct a DUI checkpoint at an undisclosed location within the city limits on Friday, February 21, 2025 from 8:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m.
DUI checkpoint locations are chosen based on data showing incidents of impaired driving-related crashes. The primary purpose of checkpoints is not to make arrests, but to promote public safety by deterring residents from driving impaired. During the checkpoint, officers will look for signs that drivers are under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
Parker’s promotion marks a significant milestone in his distinguished 30-year career. Recognizing his dedication and leadership, Fire Chief Gardner stated, “Barry has consistently risen above expectations and stands in a league of his own. With this well-earned promotion, we are thrilled to recognize his unwavering commitment and professionalism.”
I hope this message finds you well. I want to take a moment to provide important safety information regarding the upcoming storm impacting our community.
The Ventura County Sheriff Office – Emergency Services and the National Weather Service are closely monitoring a moderate storm expected to impact Ventura County from Wednesday through Friday. Rainfall is anticipated to begin Wednesday morning, peak Thursday afternoon, and taper off by Friday morning.
Storm Details:
Rainfall Projections: 1”-3” along the coast and valleys, 3”-6” in the hills and mountains.
Rainfall Rates: .10”-.33”/hr, with the remote possibility of .50”-1”/hr during thunderstorms.
Wind: Gusty Westerly winds of 20-40 MPH throughout the region.
Residents are urged to stay updated with weather forecasts and monitor their homes for any changing conditions.
“The importance of this project to our City cannot be overstated, as it plays a crucial role in enhancing public safety. We sincerely appreciate the continued efforts of our state legislature and agency partners, who are committed to collaborating on these important improvements in Oxnard,” said Mayor Luis Mc Arthur.
CAMARILLO — Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP) (Feb. 5) announced the distribution of $225,000 in sponsorships to community-based and national organizations to support Ventura County and neighboring communities to provide relief to victims of the recent fires and strengthen preparedness efforts for future emergencies.
In response to the growing needs arising from the devastation of the recent fires in Camarillo and the Greater Los Angeles area, GCHP distributed $225,000 in total funding to support the following organizations:
On Friday, Jan. 31, 2025, hundreds of angry Oxnard Union High School District and Oxnard School District students sounded the tocsin of resistance to the ICE raids unleashed by President Frump. They walked out in protest from the campuses of R.J. Frank Intermediate and the high schools of Channel Islands, Del Sol, Hueneme, Oxnard, Pacifica, and others. Some lined the streets and avenues adjacent to their campuses; others marched and drove to the City of Oxnard’s ombligo, la placita, where mi raza, in alliance with other working-class gente, historically organized similar rallies demanding immigrant rights as well as the end to police violence.
Cars and pickup trucks roamed the intersection of Fifth and C Streets to affirm the students’ cause with repeated honks, blaring banda music, and the deafening revving of V8 engines. The students responded in kind with hoots while pumping their pawky placards and Mexican colors. School administrators and teachers protectively observed the youth as did boomers like me, Gen Xers, and millennials—yes millennials you are no longer young.
At the workshop, participants will learn about financial assistance, up to $350,000 per household, to help them purchase a home in safer, lower-fire-risk areas of California. The assistance, which is forgiven after five years, is designed to help bridge the affordability gap between what applicants can afford with a First Mortgage Loan and the purchase price of an eligible property.
Across the country, deportation is often discussed as an absolute end. What seems to be missing in the conversation is that for the deported people and their families, it’s the beginning of a new set of legal obstacles that often require advocates on both sides of the border to resolve. It is also the beginning of a new and often hard life chapter.
SACRAMENTO — Assemblymember Steve Bennett (D-Ventura) introduced AB 367 to increase the performance of fire hydrants supplying water to Ventura County firefighters in their battles against wildfires. The legislation raises baseline standards of emergency preparedness for water districts servicing homes…
OXNARD — A one-day symposium, “Dementia Beyond Drugs & Disease,” will be held March 6 in Oxnard. Healthcare professionals, administrators and family caregivers will learn the latest on person-centered and non-pharmacological care for people living with dementia.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 4 percent of adults aged 65 and older have dementia. “It’s important for caregivers to have the tools that emphasize dignity, well-being and meaningful engagements with individuals with dementia,” said Keith Gosselin, executive director of Long Term Care Services of Ventura County, which is organizing the symposium. “Dementia care is evolving as we better understand the disease. The symposium will present the most up-to-date methods to improve quality of life.”
Contribute to the County’s Recreation Master Plan
The Recreation Master Plan sets out a roadmap for public parks, trails, and facilities to meet countywide needs. Chime in by mail and via email or join a virtual meeting on February 6th!
Confirmed ICE presence in Ventura County
Multiple ICE agents were confirmed to be stopping cars and knocking on doors in Ventura County last week. Farm Bureau of Ventura County reached out to Congresswoman Julia Brownley. January 29th, Congresswoman Julia Brownley sent a letter to Acting Homeland Security Secretary Benjamine Huffman and Acting U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Director Caleb Vitello demanding answers about recent U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations conducted in Ventura County. These operations, which took place in Oxnard and Santa Paula, have sparked widespread fear and raised serious concerns about the agency’s tactics and respect for due process. Read the full letter here.
SANTA PAULA — On January 18 and 19, 2025, Law Enforcement Explorers from Santa Paula Police Department Post 2350 participated in the “Chandler Tactical Competition” in Chandler, Arizona. There were 12 Santa Paula Police Department Explorers who participated and competed with other explorer posts from across the Country. The young men and women from Santa Paula were successful with a 1st place and a 3rd place award. The national competition, hosted by the Chandler Police Department, included 47 explorer posts from California, Nevada, Arizona, Colorado, and Florida.
Dear City of Ventura Residents and Community Stakeholders,
In light of the recent federal immigration enforcement actions taking place across the nation, including in California, I want to address our community to provide clarity, support, and reassurance. Ventura is a community built on inclusion and mutual respect. Local organizations are available to provide assistance, legal guidance, and resources to those in need.
• Know your rights. You have constitutional protections. Review resources and
information from the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).
• Seek guidance from trusted organizations. Groups like the El Concilio Family Services, and the Mixteco Indigena Community Organizing Project (MICOP) offer legal resources and support.
• Create a family safety plan. Have a plan in place, including childcare arrangements
and emergency contacts. If you are at risk of losing housing, the City also offers rental assistance for transitional age youth (ages 18-24) through our Homelessness Prevention Program.
• Report and document. If you or someone you know is impacted by an enforcement
action, take note of key details and reach out to local support organizations.
Due to the City of Santa Paula’s stalled contract negotiations, unfulfilled commitments, and lack of financial support, starting Feb. 1, 2025, SPARC will no longer serve as the City shelter for Santa Paula. The City’s commitment in 2012 to construct a custom animal shelter, funded through a promised bond issue, has not been fulfilled. When SPARC was initiated, the City had agreed to issue a bond for a dedicated shelter; however, this commitment has not appeared on any election ballots for the past 13 years. In addition, the City provides less than 8% of SPARC’s operating expenses; and SPARC has not received a raise in monthly fees since 2018, creating a financially unsustainable situation for the shelter.
SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula remains deeply committed to the welfare of animals in our community and ensuring that residents continue to have access to responsible animal care services. We recognize and appreciate the work that the Santa Paula Animal Rescue Center (SPARC) has done over the years, finding homes for countless animals and providing vital services such as spay/neuter programs and vaccinations. We want to clarify the City’s position regarding SPARC’s recent public statement and assure the community that we are actively working on a transition plan to continue providing essential animal services.
On the first day of his second term, President Trump issued a series of immigration-related executive orders and proclamations that will quickly re-shape the U.S. immigration system. These executive orders affect nearly every facet of a complex and demanding system. Most of the policy changes introduced through these actions are framed as directives to federal departments and agencies. However, their language also aims to stoke fear as a means of testing the boundaries of executive authority.
View this email online The next meeting of the County Board of Supervisors is scheduled for 9 a.m. Tuesday, February 4, 2025 County Administration Building Board Hearing Room, Fourth Floor 105 East Anapamu Street, Santa Barbara The public may participate virtually,…
VENTURA — As the recovery and rebuilding process continues following the Mountain Fire, the Environmental Health Division and Incident Management Team are pleased to announce that Phase 2 of debris removal is now underway. Site assessments and asbestos assessments are in progress, and debris removal operations are set to begin as early as this week.
Residents can expect to see multiple crews and trucks in affected neighborhoods, working to remove structural fire debris and clean up properties. Debris removal crews will be in place to start operations at 7:00 am and will end operations by 4:30 pm. To minimize dust and ash pollution, all debris will be misted continuously and securely wrapped in trucks during removal. Air quality will be monitored throughout the process, and operations will be paused if weather conditions are deemed to result in safety issues.
VENTURA — The County of Ventura celebrated the dedication of 24 employees who have served the community for decades and have a collective 645 years of public service. The recognition took place during the Board of Supervisors meeting on Tuesday, January 28.
This special event is part of the County’s Employee Continuous Service Recognition Program, which highlights the contributions of employees who have worked for agencies across the County of Ventura for 25 years or more. Their hard work and commitment invest in County agencies and help improve the lives of residents throughout Ventura County.
Help Shape a Creative Ventura County: Take the Arts & Culture Survey!
From museums to murals, theater to street art, car shows to art walks – how do YOU experience arts, culture, and creativity in Ventura County?
Share your story through our community survey and help build a more vibrant creative future for all!
Whether you’re an artist, supporter, or simply love experiencing local culture, we want to hear from you! Your input will directly influence Ventura County’s Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy Strategic Plan.
Take the survey here or by clicking the button below. It only takes 10 minutes. Be included in drawings for local arts & culture experiences.
“It feels special because it’s my nation saying that my life’s work is appreciated. And that is an amazing feeling,” said Tilman, a distinguished professor at Bren School of Environmental Science & Management.
VENTURA — The Ventura County Board of Supervisors has unanimously approved a series of legislative sponsorships aimed at improving utility accountability, enhancing public safety, and expanding disaster recovery assistance for residents. Patrick Maynard, Director of the Office of Emergency Services, emphasized…
Community event to be held at noon Saturday, Jan. 25 at La Casa de la Raza, 601 E. Montecito St., Santa Barbara
— A Call to Unite. The IAC is calling on community partners, including service organizations, advocacy groups, faith-based organizations, elected officials, and the broader public, to join forces and address this urgent issue. Together, we can protect the most vulnerable children and families, and ensure the continued vitality of our protected-class neighborhoods.
Mountain Fire: SBA acted under its own authority to declare a disaster in response to a request SBA received from Gov. Gavin Newsom’s authorized representative, Director Nancy Ward, of the California Office of Emergency Services on November 25. The disaster declaration makes low-interest federal disaster loans available to residents and businesses the counties of Ventura, Santa Barbara, Los Angeles and Kern who were affected by the Mountain Fire that began November 6.
Wildfires and Straight-line Winds: SBA Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman announced that low-interest federal disaster loans are now available to Southern California businesses, homeowners, renters and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations following President Joe Biden’s major disaster declaration. The declaration covers Los Angeles and the contiguous counties of Kern, Orange, San Bernardino, and Ventura due to wildfires and straight-line winds that began on January 7.
The associate professor, an expert in energy, climate and environmental politics, was recognized for her exceptional contributions and public engagement.
VENTURA — The Ventura County Air Pollution Control District is issuing an Air Quality Alert because unhealthy conditions exist.
Smoke from the Hughes Fire is causing the Air Quality Index (AQI) to fall in the unhealthy range for everyone in Camarillo, Fillmore, Moorpark, Oxnard, Piru, Santa Paula, Simi Valley and Ventura. Smoke and ash from wildfires contain very small particles that can harm the lungs and heart.
The district issues Air Quality Alerts when the AQI has reached or is forecast to reach an unhealthy level for all. A lower AQI can affect sensitive groups. This includes children, older adults and people with heart disease or respiratory conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and emphysema.
The alert is in effect until conditions improve.
We recognize the challenges that come with facing yet another period of Red Flag conditions and Public Safety Power Shutoffs.
We know these weather conditions and power shutoffs disrupt routines, create uncertainty, and make it difficult to meet essential needs. Please know that we stand with you during this time, and we are here to provide support and resources to help you navigate these challenges.
We are committed to keeping you informed of resources that keep you prepared and provide support as we navigate this challenge together.
Your patience and resilience are deeply appreciated as we work together to navigate these conditions and keep our community safe.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we face these challenges together.
I want to ensure you’re ready for the extreme conditions forecasted for our area. The National Weather Service and Ventura County Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services are closely monitoring a Red Flag wind event expected to last through Tuesday.
During this period, dry conditions combined with northeast winds of 25 to 40 MPH—and gusts reaching up to 60 MPH—create a heightened risk of wildfires.
Southern California Edison is implementing Public Safety Power Shutoffs in wind-prone areas. The primary period of concern for shutoffs extends through Tuesday morning, though circuits restored earlier may still be at risk for additional shutoffs depending on conditions.
When climate disasters strike, knowing how to help impacted communities and habitats can be daunting. CEC’s Climate Stewards certification program equips you with the knowledge to take climate action and connects you with a network of local activists working to promote community recovery and resilience.
PORT HUENEME — At a ceremony held at the Port of Hueneme, Jess J. Ramirez was sworn in as president of the Oxnard Harbor District.
Ventura County Supervisor Vianey Lopez administered the oath of office. Ramirez, a long-serving member of the International Longshoreman’s and Warehouse Union Local #46, has dedicated over 51 years to the port, starting as a casual longshoreman and rising through the ranks to a respected leader. Ramirez was sworn in alongside Commissioner Celina L. Zacarias who just completed a successful year at the helm as board president. The presidential baton for 2025 has now been passed to Ramirez.
As we honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., I am reminded of the power of his vision. This vision continues to guide us in our work today. Dr. King’s dream of equality, justice, and a “Beloved Community” resonates deeply with our shared mission at LULAC. His strong commitment to nonviolence as a force for change reminds us that unity, courage, and action make progress possible.
This year, we find ourselves at a historic crossroads. The path ahead is uncertain, and challenges are many for the Latino communities we serve across the United States and Puerto Rico. Yet, I want to assure you that our sense of purpose has never been stronger. We are not merely observing the changes around us; we are preparing and taking deliberate action to confront them with clarity and determination.
When I was a teenager, my father seemed eager to teach me how to drive. He himself never had any formal driving instruction, but he had earned his “street cred” as a driver on the battlefield known as the Los Angeles freeway system.
Every workday during my first 18 years, I saw him put on his “driving armor,” metaphorically speaking. He would leave home early in the morning, get into the family car, and go out to fight the good fight on the freeways of Los Angeles to earn a living. There were grueling miles between our modest home in the suburbs and his job at a print shop in Hollywood.
he Laken Riley Act Would Give States Sweeping Power Over Immigration Policy …
Who runs the U.S. immigration system? If the Senate passes the Laken Riley Act this week, the answer might not be Congress?or?the president. The bill, already passed in the House, would hand state attorneys general, like Ken Paxton in Texas, veto power over large swaths of federal immigration policy.
When climate disasters strike, knowing how to help impacted communities and habitats can be daunting. CEC’s Climate Stewards certification program equips you with the knowledge to take climate action and connects you with a network of local activists working to promote community recovery and resilience.
Amigos805 editor’s note: Please keep checking with vcemergency.com and other local officials/organizations for the latest fire/weather updates….
(Jan. 14)’s Board of Supervisors meeting brought significant developments, and I’d like to share the updates with you. But first, I want to remind everyone that Ventura County remains under a red flag warning. Please exercise caution, avoid activities that could spark fires, and stay informed by visiting vcemergency.com. Your safety is always my top priority—let’s all remain vigilant and prepared during these critical conditions.
VENTURA — The Ventura Police Department will conduct a driving under the influence (DUI) Checkpoint on Friday, January 17, 2025, from 8:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. The checkpoint will be held at an undisclosed location within the City of Ventura.
Carefully chosen based on data reflecting incidents of impaired driving-related crashes, DUI checkpoints play a pivotal role in enhancing public safety by removing suspected impaired drivers from the road.
Amigos805 editor’s note: Please keep checking with vcemergency.com and other local officials/organizations for the latest fire/weather updates….
VENTURA COUNTY — A Santa Ana wind event has been forecast to impact Ventura County through 6PM Wednesday, Jan. 15 . Low relative humidity coupled with high northeast wind conditions will continue to bring high fire danger to Ventura County.
A RED FLAG WARNING has been issued for Ventura County through 6PM Wednesday, January 15.
Periods of northeast winds 20 to 30 mph with gusts ranging from 40-50 mph.
The peak of the event will occur early Tuesday morning and last through Tuesday night.
Relative humidities of 8%-15% will be common with minimal improvement overnight.
WESTLAKE VILLAGE — California Strong, Southeast Ventura County YMCA, in partnership with Proactive Sports Performance, will provide essential supplies to Los Angeles wildfire victims during an event on Saturday, Jan. 18, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Proactive Sports Performance (31425 Agoura Rd, Westlake Village).
Available items will include new clothing, toiletries, bedding, baby and toddler supplies, pet supplies, children’s toys and games, shoes and local business gift cards.
“The Southeast Ventura County YMCA has been providing support through its program California Strong to natural disaster victims since the Woolsey Fire in 2018,” says Ronnie Stone, the YMCA’spresident and CEO. “In December, we provided funds to those impacted by the Mountain Fire in Camarillo.”
Amigos805 editor’s note: Please keep checking with vcemergency.com and other local officials/organizations for the latest fire/weather updates….
Due to strong winds and heightened wildfire conditions, the City of Santa Paula is experiencing weather-related power outages and Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS). We want to ensure our community stays safe and informed during this time. Below are essential tips, resources, and important updates to help you navigate these conditions.
As we face one of the most devastating fire seasons in our region’s history, our hearts are with all those impacted by the fires across Los Angeles County and here in Ventura County. Please know you are not alone, and if you or a loved one need support, please reach out to 2-1-1 or complete this needs assessment if you are in Ventura County. A team of local nonprofits is working collaboratively together and are standing by to help.
Your community foundation is committed to raising funds to address the immediate and long-term needs of those most impacted by the recent Mountain Fire, while remaining prepared to respond to other disaster-related challenges across Ventura County. 100% of all contributions go directly to those most affected and local nonprofits supporting those most in need.
Amigos805 editor’s note: Please keep checking with vcemergency.com and other local officials/organizations for the latest fire/weather updates….
Dear Ventura County Residents,
Our hearts go out to all of you as we continue to navigate one of the most challenging fire seasons in our region’s history. We understand the hardships that many of you have faced, particularly with the extended power outages that have left so many without electricity for days. During the current event, we anticipate that there may be prolonged electrical outages once again so we encourage all residents in impacted areas to prepare accordingly. To find out more information please refer to vcemergency.com.
We want you to know that your safety and well-being remain our top priority. To address the ongoing power issues, we have engaged directly with Southern California Edison executives at the highest levels to advocate for the urgent restoration of electricity to our communities as soon as it is safe to do so. We have also reached out to State and Federal authorities to emphasize the critical need for swift action.
Southern California remains on high alert from devastating wildfires throughout the region. Kaiser Permanente is deeply concerned about everyone in our community who has been affected by this tragedy. Our top priority remains the safety of our patients, members, staff, and anyone seeking care at Kaiser Permanente.
Currently, most of our facilities in Southern California are open and operating normally. We will remain vigilant and ready to respond fluidly as conditions change.
Our hearts go out to those affected, including our own staff and their families. We are grateful to our dedicated employees who continue to work tirelessly to care for our members, even as some of them are personally impacted by the fires.
Amigos805 editor’s note: Please keep checking with vcemergency.com and other local officials/organizations for the latest fire/weather updates….
National Weather Service Update
The National Weather Service is forecasting Red Flag Conditions starting today, Monday, January 13 through Wednesday, January 15. Ventura County and nearby areas will experience very strong Santa Ana winds and extreme fire danger. Conditions will be very dry, with humidity between 10–20% (and not much better at night). Because of these dry conditions and strong winds, any new or existing fire could spread very quickly.
Winds in coastal and valley areas: 25–40 mph
Winds in mountains and foothills: 30–45 mph
Peak gusts could reach 45–70 mph (especially on Tuesday).
Highest wind impact: Tuesday 4 AM – Wednesday 12 PM
Areas at greatest risk: Simi, Moorpark, South Mountain, Piru, Fillmore, and Santa Paula
Amigos805 editor’s note: Please keep checking with vcemergency.com and other local officials/organizations for the latest fire/weather updates….
As we continue to recover and rebuild from the Mountain Fire and face power outages from other So Cal Fires, I want to make sure you know that help is available, especially for those still without power or dealing with other challenges.
? 211 Ventura County is an incredible resource that connects people with assistance for a wide range of needs, including:
? Shelter and housing support
? Food assistance
? Transportation services
? Utility assistance
? Health care resources
? Mental health support
…and much more.
“We are honored to receive this grant and are committed to enhancing our cybersecurity infrastructure to safeguard the college’s digital resources and the data of our students and community,” said Allan Hancock College Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “This funding will play a vital role in strengthening our defenses against evolving cyber threats.”
President-elect Trump’s mass deportation plan will target thousands of people who richly contribute to their families, communities, and our local economies often for decades. While Trump and his advisors claim they will start with “criminal immigrants,” their plans will include millions of people who pose no public safety risk at all—just as we saw during his first administration.
H-1B Modernization Rule Provides Some Comfort But Also Raises Concerns
By issuing a final rule, the Biden administration has made it more difficult for the Trump administration to reverse some agency practices with which it disagrees.
