SANTA MARIA — Ten cadets graduated from Allan Hancock College’s CORE Custody Academy on May 23 during a ceremony held at the college’s Public Safety Training Complex in Lompoc.?
“These cadets have been challenged physically, mentally and emotionally,” said Hancock Public Safety Training Director David Whitham. “They are highly skilled and ready to start their careers as custody deputies.”
VENTURA COUNTY — The ability of first responders to communicate on a common radio system is critical when coordinating a response to a major event. The lives of first responders and the people they serve may be at risk if first responders are unable to call for assistance.
The 2023-2024 Grand Jury researched the readiness, interoperability and use of the radio communication systems first responders employ in the event of emergencies affecting Ventura County.
The Grand Jury learned that significant improvements have been made in the ability of first responders to communicate with each other. This report highlights those improvements as well as the remaining challenges.
THOUSAND OAKS — The Ventura County Fire Department officially started a project today to build a new fire station in Santa Paula to replace existing Fire Station 29.
“We are excited to start work, building a modern fire station to serve Santa Paula and the surrounding area,” Fire Chief Dustin Gardner said. “The new Fire Station 29 has been designed for larger, modern fire apparatus and will provide the space we need to add an aerial truck company, enhancing our response capabilities for the community.”
The new, two-story station will include seven dorm rooms and quarters for a battalion chief.
It’s hard to believe that it’s been 10 years since our community was struck by a tragic mass killing in Isla Vista. This is a time to remember those we lost: George Chen, Chengyuan “James” Hong, Weihan “David” Wang, Katherine Breann Cooper, Christopher Ross Michaels-Martinez, and Veronika Elizabeth Weiss. Yesterday, the community gathered together once more as we did after that fateful night in their memory. For the families of the six who were killed, the residents of IV, and the emergency personnel first on the scene, this was a traumatic and unimaginable experience.
CAMARILLO — Fifteen people joined the Ventura County Fire Department ranks on Friday after graduating from the department’s 61st firefighter academy.
“I commend everyone who graduated today for committing themselves to a career of public service,” Fire Chief Dustin Gardner said. “We work in a challenging and dangerous profession. We show up to help people who might be facing one of the worst days of their lives. And we put ourselves in harm’s way to protect others. It takes special people to do this, and I am glad to welcome each of them to the Ventura County Fire Department.”
“The CPUC’s proposed decision to dismiss AT&T’s request underscores the importance of ensuring equitable access to essential services for all residents of Ventura County”, stated Supervisor Parvin. “As your County Supervisor, I remain committed to advocating for policies that prioritize Public Safety and the needs of our constituents, particularly those in underserved areas.”
This checkpoint will be dedicated to the memory of Coldren “Cole” Kiblinger. On December 25, 2022, Cole accepted a ride from a family friend he did not know was intoxicated. The driver went off an embankment on the Santa Susana Pass in Simi Valley. Cole was killed immediately. At the time of his passing, he was 23-years-old and looking to propose to his girlfriend the following year.
VENTURA — During National Police Week, happening May 12-18, the Ventura Police Department proudly acknowledges the valor of its 135 dedicated officers, who pledge their lives to safeguard Ventura. Amidst the commendations, Ventura PD honors Detective Stephanie Avila as Officer of the Year.
“I am incredibly proud of our officers and deeply grateful for their families’ steadfast support throughout the challenges they face,” said Police Chief Darin Schindler. “Leading a team of compassionate professionals who serve with integrity is an absolute privilege.”
VENTURA — On March 26, 2024, the Ventura City Council approved a five-year plan to address homelessness. This plan, developed through collaboration with the County of Ventura, City of Oxnard, and City of Thousand Oaks, outlines a strategy tailored to Ventura’s needs. LeSar Development Consultants played a crucial role by providing extensive research to inform the plan.
The Point in Time Count, mandated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), serves as a crucial tool for communities seeking federal grants to address homelessness. Results from the 2024 Ventura County Homeless Point in Time Count, conducted by the Ventura County Continuum of Care, showed a significant change. The number of sheltered persons increased by 14.7% from 2023 to 2024, reaching 927 individuals, while the number of unsheltered persons decreased by 12.4% to 1,431.
The graduates were honored during two ceremonies at the college’s Public Safety Training Complex (PSTC) in Lompoc.
“These cadets represent the next generation of first responders,” said Hancock Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D. “They are highly trained and prepared to serve their communities.”
VENTURA — May is National Bicycle Safety Month, and The City of Ventura is encouraging everyone to get active and safely take bike rides while at the same time reminding drivers to be on the lookout for more people biking and walking.
“Everyone deserves to reach their destination safely,” Public Works Director, Charlie Ebeling said. “Unfortunately, there has been an increase in bicycle fatalities and injuries over the last few years. Bicyclists do not have the same protections as people in a vehicle so if you see a bicyclist — slow down.”
VENTURA — For 40 years, the first full week of May has been recognized as National Correctional Officers Week. This week provides a platform to recognize the sacrifices and dedication of these unsung heroes. As a 24/7, 365 days a year operation, Corrections Services Officers for the Ventura County Probation Agency serve a vital role in public safety.
“Corrections Services Officers serve a vital role in public safety, one that often goes unnoticed,” shared Chief Probation Officer Gina Johnson. “Their responsibility of caring for youth and young adults at our Juvenile Facilities is monumental. They have an unwavering dedication to their jobs, to the youth and young adults, and to each other. It is befitting that they have a week dedicated in their honor!”
VENTURA — The Ventura Police Department will have extra officers on patrol in May looking specifically for traffic violations made by drivers and motorcycle riders.
The top primary crash factors for motorcycles are unsafe speed, improper turning, right-of-way violations, driving under the influence and unsafe lane changes. Speeding is the most common factor, accounting for nearly a third of all crashes in the state.
CAMARILLO — The Ventura County Fire Department announced its selection of Joe Morelli as its next fire marshal.
“I am pleased to have Joe Morelli join our department as fire marshal,” Fire Chief Dustin Gardner said. “He brings a wealth of experience, expertise, and familiarity with Ventura County to this role, which leads our efforts to keep people safe by reducing the risk of fire in our community, commercial buildings, and homes.”
CAMARILLO — The Ventura County Fire Department will accept registrations for its Junior Fire Academy from 9am May 1, 2024 to 5pm May 8, 2024 (or earlier if all spots are filled).
The department will offer three, five-day sessions for girls and boys ages 13 to 15. Sessions are taught by firefighters and include hands-on activities, interactive learning and field trips. Each session is limited to 30 spaces, which will be filled on a first-come, first served basis. Applicants must sign up online at https://vcfd.org/junior-fire-academy/ starting May 1, 2024.
VENTURA — The Ventura County Continuum of Care Alliance has released the official results for the 2024 Ventura County Homeless Point in Time Count. The executive summary, which can be viewed here, comprises details and key findings of people experiencing homelessness who were surveyed and observed on January 24, 2024. This includes those who met the federal definition of homelessness which includes those living unsheltered or in places not meant for human habitation, as well as those staying in emergency shelters and transitional housing on the night of January 23.
View this email online Hope Village Ribbon Cutting in Santa Maria The County of Santa Barbara hosted the grand opening of Hope Village, an interim, supportive housing community in Santa Maria, CA. This project provides safe housing for unhoused individuals,…
I invite you to join me later this month the public will have the opportunity to learn more about Flood Control’s planning efforts that will guide the design, and construction of improvements to mitigate flooding impacts to the community.
The Grand Jury is an independent panel of 19 Ventura County citizens who serve for one fiscal year, from July to June. Near the end of its term, the Civil Grand Jury files a report of its findings and recommendations with the superior court presiding judge. Afterward, the report is available to the public.
The reason many Americans are not benefitting from our health system is because they do not take seriously the advice given to them by their doctors.
To understand this unfortunate situation, let’s consider for a moment the scenario in which a couple of mischievous teenagers are left “home alone” while their parents go out for a weekend vacation. The teenagers decide, naturally, to throw a party. After all, “When the cat’s away, the mice will play.” The teens are the proverbial “mice” while the parents are the storied “cats.”
“The importance of ensuring our law enforcement and public safety entities in Ventura County have access to high-quality, reliable communications equipment cannot be overstated,” said Congresswoman Julia Brownley. “Not only will this state-of-the-art communication system facilitate better communication and coordination between agencies, but all of our cities and residents will benefit from streamlined services that will lower costs and redundancies. …
Donating the Fire District’s surplus heavy-duty utility truck to the Simi Valley Police Department (SVPD) will provide them with the ability to carry needed equipment to the scene of an emergency safely and expeditiously and is an effective use of County and Simi Valley Police Department resources.
Ventura County is home to three military bases located within 8 miles of each other, namely the Channel Islands Air National Guard Station with 12,000 ppt, the Naval Construction Battalion Center Port Hueneme with 1,080,000 ppt, and Point Mugu Naval Air Station with 46,343 ppt PFAS detected in their soil and groundwater.
CAMARILLO — The Ventura County Fire Department, in collaboration with the Ventura County Air Pollution Control District (APCD), will carry out a planned burning operation within the Sisar fuel break in Upper Ojai through April 12th. The goal of prescribed fire burning is to strategically and safely decrease dangerous fuel amounts to lower the risk of future wildland fires. In this case, piles of vegetation were cut and will be burned to create a buffer zone that will help protect the nearby community from the threat of wildfires.
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CAMARILLO — As part of the Ventura County Fire Department’s initiative to modernize Fire Station 29 in Santa Paula, the personnel and equipment currently stationed at the Tenth Street location will be relocated to a temporary facility one block east on East Main Street. This transition to the temporary station will occur on Friday, March 22, 2024, at noon. The fire crews will operate from this temporary location until the construction of the new fire station is completed.
SANTA PAULA — The Santa Paula Police Department was awarded a $65,000 grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS). The grant will support our ongoing enforcement and education programs to help reduce the number of serious injuries and deaths on our roads.
“This funding will strengthen our commitment to public safety in our community,” Police Chief Don Aguilar said. “We will be able to increase our efforts in making our roads safer for everyone and focus on critical areas such as distracted driving, impaired driving and speeding.”
“The safety of our residents that use this route is our top priority, and I’m grateful to the Public Works Agency for their fast action in assessing the situation and quickly securing a contract to address these much-needed repairs,” said Supervisor Kelly Long. “Having one lane available on the bridge heading east will provide a protected and convenient route into town for residents of west Fillmore. While this construction is underway, please remember to drive safely and be alert in work zone areas.”
(March 1) we took a significant step forward towards avoiding the worst effects of climate change, opening the new Strauss Wind Project. These 27 wind turbines will generate enough power for 36,000 homes – helping us move towards a more clean and reliable electric grid.
What’s most important isn’t just the impact of this one project, but what it means for the potential of clean energy in other parts of coastal California. 21 years in the making, this project was able to navigate the process and get the permits and approvals it needed to open.
OXNARD — The City of Oxnard has started its phased project to repair the pavement on Gonzales Rd. between Victoria Ave. to Rice Ave. Major activities began in mid-February and are expected to continue through the fall of 2024.
At O’Hare International Airport’s Terminal 5, art lecturer H??ng Ngô and collaborator H?ng-n Tr??ng reimagine concepts of citizenship and safe passage in a newly commissioned piece.
As of February 3, 2024 Governor Gavin Newson issued a Proclamation of a State of Emergency for damages to businesses and homes in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties resulting from the Storm and Flooding that occurred February 3, 2024.
See the Disaster Proclamation for the recent February storm HERE.
Ventura County Resources
Report Damage to Homes & Businesses: Ventura County Sheriff’s Emergency Services is collecting data on damaged property following the recent storms. This information is then shared with Cal OES and FEMA to assist with qualifying Ventura County as a disaster area. You can submit a damage report through February 12 HERE.
SACRAMENTO – Today, Governor Gavin Newsom thanked first responders for their efforts over the past few weeks to help keep Californians safe during record-breaking winter storms.
Starting in late January, Governor Newsom directed an all-of-government response to storms that have impacted nearly all residents. The response included over 8,500 boots on the ground to support communities with roadways, flood operations, rescue teams, sheltering, and more.
State swift water rescue teams, composed of both California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services and CAL FIRE assets, made a combined 47 rescues and assisted six locally-led rescue operations. These state operations complemented the work of local governments conducting their own rescues.
Evacuation Order Issued Due to Incoming Storm EVACUATION ORDERS have been issued for the following areas in Santa Barbara County: Properties along waterways associated with the Thomas, Cave and Alisal burn areas. Properties in the vicinity of Sycamore Creek, from Stanwood…
Rain is on the way, and now is the time to prepare.
The National Weather Service is forecasting two storms that are heading toward our area. The first will arrive tonight and last through tomorrow, February 1, and a stronger storm is likely arriving Sunday, February 4th and lasting through Wednesday, February 7th.
The first storm arriving tonight may bring moderate impacts which include flooding of roadways, creeks and areas that are prone to flooding risk during moderate storms.
SACRAMENTO — Working proactively to keep communities safe, California is mobilizing a whole-of-government response to a series of potentially dangerous incoming storms.
Beginning Tuesday evening, a series of storms will hit the state for the next 10 days and is expected to bring significant rain, high winds, deep snow as well as potential flash flooding and power outages.
At the direction of Governor Gavin Newsom, the State Operations Center in Mather is being activated to coordinate a unified response to these storms across state, local and federal agencies.
This coming Tuesday at the Board of Supervisors we will discuss a report showing that our County has a higher-than-average jail incarceration rate compared to the rest of California, and hear an update on efforts to better manage the population of the jail. The most basic service in government is public safety, but it does not make us safe when some people are ending up in jail, or coming back to it, because of a lack of mental health services. We have a moral imperative to improve the situation. But we also have a financial need as well.
VENTURA — The County of Ventura invites members of the public to provide responses to a public survey regarding the County’s emergency response efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic. The survey, which will help inform the County’s official After-Action Report (AAR), is available online in English and Spanish at the County’s website at www.ventura.org.
The County of Ventura, in collaboration with Constant Associates, a third-party public health and emergency management consultancy, is developing a COVID-19 After-Action Report to document the County’s response to the pandemic and improve its preparedness for future public health crises. Among other data collection activities, to capture detailed data regarding our response efforts, Constant Associates has created a virtual survey, which we invite you to fill out. Please feel free to also forward this email and link to other members of your community or organization whose feedback you feel would be beneficial.
Your participation in this survey plays a crucial role in shaping our understanding of the County’s COVID-19 response efforts and ensuring that we are effectively meeting the needs of our community.
To access the survey, click the following link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/87XNSZM
WESTLAKE VILLAGE — Enrollment for winter swim lessons is open for classes at the Yarrow Family YMCA in Westlake Village and Simi Valley Family YMCA. Group lessons are from January 16 through February 26. Private lessons are also available.
Weekly swim classes have a maximum ratio of one teacher per five swimmers. Swimmers are assigned classes based on their age and swimming ability. Age groups are three to five years, five to seven years and eight to 12 years. Parent/child classes are for children from six months of age to three years old. Swim diapers are required for infants and toddlers. Parents can select from class times and days on Mondays through Thursdays and on Saturdays.
