On Tuesday, November 18th, the Oxnard City Council faces a defining choice: will they stand with our community or take a bad deal from a polluting corporation that has spent decades deceiving and putting profit before people? Join us at City Council on Tuesday at 6:00 PM to make your voice heard and stand up for environmental justice in Oxnard.
THOUSAND OAKS — Arson investigators determined the likely cause of the Mountain Fire was extreme wind dislodging a pocket of covered, hot tire debris from an earlier fire, the Ventura County Fire Department announced Nov. 7.
“The Mountain Fire was devastating to our community,” Fire Chief Dustin Gardner said. “To everyone affected by the fire, you have our continuing support. Neighbors to all of us here in Ventura County lost homes and possessions, including irreplaceable photos and keepsakes. Others were forced to flee, not knowing whether they would have homes to come back to. It was heartbreaking and the emotional scars of this fire will last long after the homes are rebuilt.”
As I reflect on one year since the November 6, 2024 Mountain Fire, my heart is with the many residents who lost so much. Time has passed, but the weight of the fire still impacts many. The pain and loss remain real and are a heavy burden each day for those still rebuilding their lives.
Over the past year, I have witnessed incredible resilience. Neighbors have lifted each other up, volunteers have given their time and hearts, and local organizations continue to help families recover. The strength, kindness, and determination shown across this community are what make Ventura County such a special place to call home.
Since becoming an emergency first responder in 1994 and joining Ventura Fire in 1996 as an Emergency Paramedic, Endaya has advanced through every rank in the department before being selected as Fire Chief in 2014.
“Serving the City of Ventura as Fire Chief has been one of the greatest honors of my career,” said Chief Endaya. “I am proud of what we have accomplished and deeply grateful for the dedication, professionalism, and heart of the men and women of the Ventura Fire Department.”
VENTURA — The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) announced that the annual quarantine on mussels gathered by sport harvesters from California’s coastal waters ended on midnight on Friday, October 31, 2025, for the California coast, including Ventura County. Shellfish advisories remain in place for sport-harvested razor clams from Humboldt County and for sport-harvested mussels, clams, scallops, and oysters from the Northern Channel Islands.
SANTA PAULA — The City of Santa Paula will launch its Fall 2025 Pavement Improvement Project on Friday, October 31, 2025, continuing the City’s commitment to maintaining safe, accessible, and well-maintained streets. The project will enhance roadway safety, extend pavement life, and improve accessibility throughout the community. Work is expected to continue through Wednesday, November 26, 2025, lasting approximately four weeks.
The Fall 2025 Pavement Improvement Project will include resurfacing, striping, and accessibility upgrades along several key corridors — Main Street, McKevett Road, Teague Drive, Teracina Drive, Loma Vista Drive, Vuelta Place, and Mill Street. These coordinated efforts will provide smoother, safer travel for motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists throughout Santa Paula, with Main Street serving as the project’s primary focus area.
“Our AMR and Gold Coast Ambulance teams are comprised of supervisors, paramedics, EMTs, medical professionals and support staff that all contribute to the health and safety of our county,” said Mike Sanders, Regional Director of AMR Ventura and Santa Barbara counties. “We appreciate the County of Ventura for recognizing our entire first responder community, and we especially want to acknowledge and thank our crews for the important role they play in providing responsive, high-quality life-saving care.”
VENTURA — The Ventura Police Department is expanding its crime prevention efforts by launching a new initiative that empowers Volunteers in Policing (VIPs) to conduct routine inspections for illegal credit card skimming devices at gas stations throughout the city.
Using specialized handheld Skim Scan devices, trained volunteers will help safeguard residents from electronic theft by checking fuel pumps and other unattended card readers for hidden hardware designed to steal payment information.
“We are excited to receive this grant, which will allow us to significantly expand our bicycle and pedestrian safety program,” said Principal Civil Engineer Jeff Hereford. “By focusing on education, awareness, and promoting safe practices, we aim to reduce crashes and prevent injuries. Ultimately, we’re working toward building more walkable and bike-friendly neighborhoods where everyone can travel safely and confidently.”
You don’t need to wait for the next disaster to make a meaningful impact. Community Environmental Council’s (CEC) Central Coast Resilience Hubs Accelerator is here to support local leaders who recognize the growing threat of climate disasters and are ready to take action.
If you work with a neighborhood school, church, library, community center, nonprofit, or similar facility, you may be in the perfect position to host a Resilience Hub — a safe space that offers shelter, safety training, clean air, off-grid power, cooling, and/or food before, during, and after a disaster.
VENTURA — The Ventura County Probation Agency (VCPA) is proud to announce the assignment of two new K-9 Officers, Virna Mejia and Andy Bernal, and their specially trained K-9 partners, Inca and Koda. This marks a significant step forward in enhancing the agency’s safety protocols and community service capabilities.
The introduction of K-9 Officers and their canine partners is a strategic initiative designed to strengthen public safety and support probation supervision efforts. This highly skilled K-9 team will focus on detecting illegal substances and weapons during home visits and searches within juvenile facilities. Their presence not only acts as a powerful deterrent against criminal activity but also enhances officer safety and efficiency during field operations.
No Kings Day rallies are planned throughout the Ventura, Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties region on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025 in protest of the policies of the Trump Administration. The rallies are being organized by Indivisible and supported by a variety of organizations.
“In America, we don’t put up with would-be kings,” Indivisible stated in a variety of posts.
“Our peaceful movement is only getting bigger and stronger. “NO KINGS” is more than just a slogan—it’s the foundation our nation was built upon. Born in the streets, carried by millions in chants and on posters, it echoes from city blocks to rural town squares, uniting people across this country to fight dictatorship together.”
Please see links to local protests, news coverage in the region.
In his book “When It All Burns,” Jordan Thomas sets out to answer a straightforward question: What led to today’s megafires? What emerged was an immersive account of a changing world.
The legislation ensures fire hydrants work as designed during wildfires by creating baseline standards of emergency preparedness for water districts servicing homes in high fire risk areas of Ventura County as mapped by CAL FIRE.
SACRAMENTO — Gavin Newsom signed into law Assembly Bill 1041(Bennett) which improves patient access to care and boosts small and independent practices by streamlining the physician credentialing process.
For too long, California physicians have faced months-long delays when trying to join health plan networks. These delays are caused by outdated, inconsistent, and duplicative credentialing requirements that vary from plan to plan.
From move-in activities to a first-ever spirit rally, UC Santa Barbara kicks off a new year with a week’s worth of fun.
The innovative tool, designed specifically for non-expert users, improves airway access and raises survival odds in critical medical emergencies.
CAMARILLO — The Ventura County Community College District (VCCCD) swore in Robert Davidson as its new chief of police September 22, bringing nearly 35 years of county law enforcement experience to guide and strengthen the District’s police department.
Davidson began his career with the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office in 1991 where he rose up through the ranks to Assistant Sheriff. Over more than three decades, he successfully led major investigations, directed Internal Affairs and training programs, and oversaw the Sheriff’s largest division with a $120 million budget.
All 14 graduates of CORE Academy Class #20 completed a comprehensive California Standards and Training for Corrections course consisting of 260 hours of instruction. The six-week academy is designed to prepare students mentally, morally, emotionally and physically to work as correctional officers. Some of the academy instruction included emergency planning in a custody facility, report writing, ethics, investigation procedures, contraband, arrest and control, physical fitness training, CPR/First Aid and emergency vehicle operations.
VENTURA — Mosquito activity is expected to increase following the rainfall from the remnants of Tropical Storm Mario. It is important now to prevent mosquito breeding and reduce the chances of being bitten by mosquitoes by emptying objects that collected water during the rain event.
VENTURA — To expand accessibility and ensure all residents have the opportunity to be prepared for emergencies, the City of Ventura, in collaboration with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the City of Santa Paula, is offering a full Spanish-language Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training beginning this October.
The free, hands-on program is open to 40 participants from Ventura and Santa Paula and will run from October 9 through November 15, 2025. Applicants will be accepted on a rolling basis with the application open through Wednesday, October 8, 2025.
SACRAMENTO — The California State Legislature sent Assemblymember Bennett’s AB 367 to the Governor’s desk. The bill would increase the performance of fire hydrants supplying water to Ventura County firefighters in their battles against wildfires. The legislation also raises baseline standards of emergency preparedness for water districts servicing homes in high fire risk areas of Ventura County as mapped by Cal FIRE.
VENTURA — The Ventura Police Department invites residents, business owners, and community stakeholders to participate in its Strategic Plan Community Questionnaire. This short, accessible feedback form, available in English and Spanish, gives the community a direct voice in shaping the department’s priorities and goals.
Click here to register and join us in this important (virtual conversation on Sept. 16).
This session will bring together leading voices in law, democracy, and civil rights to:
Examine the ruling’s implications for constitutional protections, civil liberties, and immigrant communities.
Discuss what Congress and state governments can do to protect residents, strengthen oversight, and counter discriminatory enforcement.
Explore strategies for building broad coalitions capable of defending both democracy and civil rights in the face of aggressive enforcement.
THOUSAND OAKS — This year marks the 24th anniversary of the September 11 attacks on New York City and Washington, D.C. To honor the lives lost and the courage of those who responded, the Ventura County Fire Department invites the community to join firefighters in remembrance ceremonies across the county.
Commemorations will take place at every fire station, department headquarters, and at Fire Dispatch.
VENTURA — On September 5, 2025 the Ventura County Environmental Health Division (Division) received confirmation from the California Department of Public Health that a bird collected during the fourth week of August (8/25) from the Simi Valley area tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV). WNV is established in Ventura County and additional WNV positives are expected. This is the first detection of WNV activity this year in Ventura County.
VENTURA — September is Pedestrian Safety Month in California, and the City of Ventura reminds drivers and walkers alike to take extra care when sharing streets. Whether you’re heading to school, work, or enjoying Ventura’s neighborhoods, walking should always be a safe and easy option.
According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, 7,148 pedestrians were killed in traffic collisions across the United States in 2024. In California alone, pedestrian deaths account for over 24% of all traffic-related fatalities.
SANTA PAULA — Beginning in October, the Southeast Ventura YMCA will provide water safety classes to third graders in the Simi Valley Unified School District.
The YMCA, in partnership with the Simi Valley Unified School District, will offer its Safety Around Water (SAW) program to approximately 900 third-grade students at no charge. Bus transportation is included to and from the Simi Valley Family YMCA’s indoor pool, where the swim program will be held.
Third graders from all 18 Simi Valley elementary schools will take part in the four-day program, Monday through Thursday. In-water and out-of-water safety training is included.
In a decisive move that prioritizes taxpayer dollars and essential services, the Ventura County Board of Supervisors rejected key elements of Item 43 on August 26, 2025. This proposal sought to allocate millions in public funds for immigration-related initiatives, including a $250,000 Immigration Legal Defense Fund, seven new positions in the Public Defender’s Office Immigrant Defense Unit at an annual cost of about $1.3 million, and up to $1.9 million over three years for a migrant education program.
SANTA BARBARA — Use Your Voice for Safer Streets! Join Us for Meetings October 8 (Online) & October 15 (In Person) Join the City to create safe and more accessible streets! Whether you walk, bike, or drive, your experiences matter—especially…
OXNARD — Ventura County Behavioral Health (VCBH), a department of the Ventura County Health Care Agency (HCA), will join communities nationwide in recognizing the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) second annual “988 Day” on Monday, September 8, 2025. This year’s theme is Compassionate Help. Anytime.
988 Day raises awareness about the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, emphasizing that suicide is preventable and that compassionate support is available anytime, anywhere. The Lifeline provides free, 24/7 access to skilled, caring, and trained counselors by text, chat, or phone call.
VENTURA — The Ventura Police Department Traffic Unit will conduct a DUI checkpoint at an undisclosed location within the city limits on Friday, August 29, 2025, from 7:00 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.
In response to recent burglaries in the Santa Rosa Valley area, the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office partnered with Rosemary Allison, the Santa Rosa Valley CERT and Neighborhood Watch Coordinator, to provide residents with key safety information and practical tips to help secure their homes and property.
Representatives from the Moorpark Sheriff’s Station shared crime prevention strategies and encouraged residents to remain vigilant. These tips are an important reminder for all community members in communities throughout the area.
SANTA BARBARA — From powering tsunami warning systems to supporting 24/7 food pantries, Unite To Light is pleased to announce eight new PowerPole installations which are set to transform how Santa Barbara County communities access reliable, renewable energy. Through a unique partnership with the James S. Bower Foundation and local battery tech startup Dragon Q Energy, the PowerPole is a compact, solar-integrated, off-grid solution providing electricity, battery storage, and internet connectivity, even in the harshest conditions.
Dear Neighbors,
As a new school year begins, I want to wish our local students and families a wonderful start and remind everyone to stay safe on the roadways. In this newsletter, you’ll find important updates, resources, and details about upcoming community events—I hope you’ll join me.
Warm regards,
Jeff
Jeff Gorell, Ventura County Supervisor, District 2
SupevisorGorell@ventura.org
Santa Paula Creek is a tributary to the Santa Clara River located along the east side of the City of Santa Paula. The project aims to reduce flood risk and enhance community safety. Following two early public scoping meetings held in July, the public is encouraged to provide feedback to help guide the study’s scope, shape possible measures and alternatives, and assess potential environmental impacts.
… To clarify, the City of Santa Paula was not invited to participate in the lawsuit. The most recent group of cities to join was added on August 8, 2025, and Santa Paula was not among them. The City is not privy to the Los Angeles City Attorney’s litigation strategy or procedural decisions.
We recognize that this is an important issue for many in our community, and Council has received messages from residents urging the City to join the lawsuit or take other related action. While the City is not a party to this case, Council continues to evaluate issues and opportunities related to protecting the rights and well-being of all Santa Paula residents.
PORT HUENEME — Geopolitical tensions led to increased maritime security threats in 2024. Attacks, cyberthreats, extreme weather events, and other potential dangers underscore the critical importance of robust security training and strong emergency preparedness programs to safeguard global trade and ensure community safety.
It was against this backdrop that officials from the Port of Hueneme recently conducted the organization’s Coastal Trident Security Exercise.
Gifford Fire Update —
Stay informed about the latest developments in fire containment, current evacuation orders and warnings in Santa Barbara County, and available resources for affected communities.
VENTURA — Starting August 13 and running through September 1, the Ventura Police Department will participate in the national Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over enforcement campaign, in partnership with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
This high-visibility campaign focuses on stopping impaired drivers and preventing the types of deadly crashes often seen over Labor Day weekend. Additional officers will be on patrol looking for drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
