County of Ventura 2023 Annual Report - English Version
2023 ELECTED OFFICIALS & AGENCY DIRECTORS
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
Airports
Animal Services
Department of Agriculture/ Weights & Measures
County Counsel
Department of
Child Support Services
Fire Protection District
General Services Agency
ELECTED OFFICIALS AGENCY DIRECTORS
Keith Freitas
Air Pollution Control District Ali Reza Ghasemi
Jackie Rose
Ed Williams
Tiffany North
Marcus Mitchell
Dustin Gardner
Dave Sasek
Probation Agency
Department
Harbor Department
Health Care Agency
Human Services Agency
Information Technology Systems
Library System
Medical Examiner’s Office
Probation Agency
Public Defender
Public Works Agency
Resource Management Agency
APPOINTMENTS
Gina
Michael Tripp
Barry Zimmerman
Melissa Livingston
Terry Theobald
Nancy Schram
Dr. Christopher Young
Mark Varela
Claudia Bautista
Kim Prillhart
Supervisor Matt LaVere First District
Supervisor Jeff Gorell Second District
Supervisor Janice S. Parvin Fourth District
Supervisor Kelly Long Third District
Supervisor Vianey Lopez Fifth District
MESSAGE
FROM THE CEO
This was a momentous year as we celebrated the 150th anniversary of the County of Ventura.
Truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, the long history of the county was commemorated, with a strong focus on the diversity of our communities, the many contributions of our residents, and an eye on the future of the county as it is bright with exciting innovations on the horizon.
As we commemorated the history and establishment of our county, 2023 was the beginning of much change for our local government and community. Many newly elected officials were officially sworn into office in January, including two of the five members of the Ventura County Board of Supervisors, County Clerk-Recorder, District Attorney, Sheriff, and Tax Collector. As well, the County developed an updated strategic plan that will provide the North Star for agencies as they work closely with the Board of Supervisors to plan ahead for the future of the County of Ventura.
The County continued to prosper financially, with a structurally balanced budget of $2.9 billion. With nearly 10,000 employees, the County holds rank as the 2nd largest employer in our region. The hard work and dedication of County staff throughout 25 agencies and departments are at the heart of the successes that are included in this report.
Dr. Sevet Johnson County Executive Officer
Some of the notable events and achievements, which you will read about are:
• The initiation of an exciting teaching partnership between Ventura County Medical Center and the Keck School of Medicine at USC.
• Recognition of the Resource Management Agency for its outstanding work on farmworker housing in our community.
• Progress being made on Phase I of the Broadband Middle Mile Project that will increase access to the internet in historically underserved communities.
The ability to make these advances is thanks to the stability of our local government. The solid leadership of the Board of Supervisors, unwavering dedication of managers and employees across the County, and the commitment to investing in the local community has generated continued success.
The County remains committed to creating the best quality of life possible for all residents in the region.
Sevet Johnson, PsyD County Executive Officer
Ventura County ranked eighth in data on the health of counties out of the 58 counties in California (Data from University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute).
the
2,735
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Focused on housing, with 17 affordable housing projects in progress to provide up to 1,609 housing units.
Ranked “High” on the Innovation Intelligence Index — Ranked 230 compared to 3,110 counties in the U.S.
158 Bridges
HISTORY – PEOPLE & PLACES
ESTABLISHMENT OF THE COUNTY
Ventura County, California, has a rich and fascinating history that began before its formation in 1873. Over 10,000 years ago, the Chumash people, fishermen and maritime traders, inhabited the land that became Ventura County. Spanish explorers arrived in the 1500s with active occupation beginning in the 1700s. Mission San Buenaventura was founded in 1782, generating population growth in the surrounding area of San Buenaventura. Acres of land were given out to Mexican Californians, Californios, as payment for their service and to encourage land settlement. In the 1830s and 40s, these ranchos raised cattle and increased agriculture interest in what is now Ventura County.
In 1850 California joined the United States, becoming the 31st state. The growing city of San Buenaventura (Ventura) was incorporated in 1866, becoming the first city in what was soon to be Ventura County. Originally the southeastern portion of Santa Barbara County, Ventura County began with three townships - Saticoy, Hueneme, and Ventura, the county’s seat. These became the initial Supervisorial Districts in the first election of county officials on February 25, 1873.
The County of Ventura was formed January 1, 1873, when it separated from Santa Barbara County. At this time, the county had a population of 3,500 residents. Agriculture remained a primary source of revenue in the early development of Ventura County. Many farmers cultivated hay, citrus fruits, grapes, and beans.
Ventura County home to the Chumash people
1542 Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo, Portuguese navigator sailing for Spain, lands in Ventura County
Original document establishing separation of Ventura County from Santa Barbara County
HISTORY – PEOPLE & PLACES
GROWTH IN VENTURA COUNTY
The Southern Pacific Railroad coastal route between Los Angeles and San Francisco was constructed in 1887, facilitating growth with the transportation of goods and people. The new town of Fillmore, established by the railroad, Santa Paula, and Oxnard experienced an expansion of population and industry. Sugar beets, citrus fruits, and beans were popular railroad freight. The railroads connected to the wharf along the Santa Barbara Channel, which would later become the Port of Hueneme.
In the early 20th century, the oil industry joined the growing agriculture industry. The presence of oil and tar had been known since the Chumash times. Still, it wasn’t until 1916 that harvesting petroleum became profitable. At one point, the Ventura Avenue Oilfield was the country’s largest oil field, producing over 90,000 barrels a day.
In the mid-20th century, the eastern portion of Ventura County, previously sparsely populated ranch and farmland, experienced significant growth and development. The Conejo Valley became a popular location for planned communities delivering a high quality of life and offering proximity to nearby Los Angeles. Growing technology and healthcare industries also took note of the area’s potential and expanded the eastern part of the county.
Ventura County’s growth has continued over the 150 years since its formation. Today, Ventura County is one of 58 counties in the State of California. Its landmass rises from sea level to 8,831 feet at Mount Pinos in the Los Padres National Forest. At certain times of the year, it is possible to stand on the
beach and see snow in the mountains. The county’s coastline stretches a stunning 42 miles and the Los Padres National Forest account for 46 percent of the landmass in the northern portion of the county. Agriculture remains a staple of the county’s production. Fertile valleys in the southern half of the county make Ventura County a leading agricultural producer. Together, farming and the Los Padres National Forest occupy nearly half of the county’s 1.2 million acres.
The healthcare and technology sectors continue to be top industries locally. Naval Base Ventura County, including its facilities on San Nicholas Island, offers a significant economic impact to the county. The Port of Hueneme is California’s smallest, but only deepwater port between Los Angeles and San Francisco, and plays a major role in the local economy. As the county expanded, Supervisorial Districts have increased from three to five. The most current population estimates, per the 2020 Census, indicate there are over 830,000 residents in ten cities and numerous unincorporated communities.
Revolutionary War
1833 Mexico revolts against Spain and creates new government
1824 Chumash revolt in Santa Ynez and Santa Barbara. Some refugees come to Ventura County.
HISTORY – PEOPLE & PLACES
FIRST COUNTY COURTHOUSE
The first County Courthouse was built in the city of Ventura between the years 1874 and 1875. The building, which was located on Santa Clara Street and still stands today, was built for $10,000. The original courthouse was used until 1913. Following that date, courthouse facilities moved to Poli Street and were housed in what today is the current location for City Hall in the city of Ventura.
COUNTY HOSPITAL
The County’s first hospital opened in 1887. The original building, which was located in the city of Ventura near the intersection of Thompson Boulevard and Junipero Street, served the local population until 1921, when a new, larger hospital was constructed. The current building for the hospital today stands near the same location as the hospital that was built in 1921.
1862 Homestead Act grants 160 acres to settlers moving west
1864 Gilbert Oil Field launches the County’s first oil boom; sheep industry begins
1865 Lured by oil, Thomas Bard arrives as agent for Thomas Scott (VP of Pennsylvania Railroad)
1866 Southern Pacific Railroad establishes a temporary Chinatown near Fillmore; City of San Buenaventura incorporated
HISTORY – PEOPLE & PLACES
FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT
SHERIFF’S OFFICE
One of two original offices in place at the time that the county was established, the Office of the Sheriff for Ventura County began in February, 1873 following the election of the County’s first SheriffFrank Peterson. Originally, the Office of the Sheriff served to collect taxes and catch horse thieves. Over the years, the job of sheriff’s deputies and the Sheriff’s Office has evolved into a more sophisticated law enforcement agency.
On May 11, 1928, the Ventura County Fire Protection District (VCFPD) was established. The original Fire Protection District headquarters opened at 845 E. Santa Barbara St. in the city of Santa Paula. While no longer home to the County Fire Department headquarters, the building is still in use and serves as the office for the Ventura County Department of Agriculture/Weights & Measures.
1869 Completion of Transcontinental Railroad
1871 Hueneme War 1873 Ventura County separates from Santa Barbara County
1870s Rise of “dry land farming”–newly arrived Easterners grow wheat, barley, and other grains
1876 Severe droughts 1880s City of Ventura passes and ordinance limiting Chinatown to four blocks
150TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION
The County of Ventura’s 150th Anniversary was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for residents to learn more about local history, reflect on the diversity of the county, and celebrate the past while generating a positive vision for the future. The County made significant efforts to meet residents through a variety of mediums and provide opportunities for engagement in-person and through digital programming.
In partnership with the Museum of Ventura County, the County executed three major events – a kick-off reception for 150 days of celebration, the “Mountains to Sea Jubilee” & “Jubilee Music Fest”, a large family festival and music concert, and the 2023 State of the County Address held at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library. The events were held in June, October, and November.
Complementary “pop-up” events were also held to provide “traveling” events within the County’s five districts to bring the celebration to residents and allow them to interact with local history. The joint County of Ventura and Museum of Ventura County pop-up celebrations visited the Ventura County Fair, Simi Valley Ragtime Revival Festival, the Banana Festival at the Port of Hueneme, and the Thousand Oaks Bank of America Performing Arts Center.
As well, the Museum of Ventura County curated a unique historical exhibit – “Ventura County: The Place We Call Home” – that featured the people and places, both past and present, that are representative of the county. Inspiration for the theme throughout the year-long celebration was drawn from the historical archives across County agencies, as well as the materials found within the archives that are curated and managed by the Museum of Ventura County.
Residents who may not have had the opportunity to interact with a 150th Celebration event in person also had the chance to connect via County social media and a dedicated anniversary website – the VC 150 Memories project.
The website served as a digital time capsule by inviting residents to contribute their own photos and memories of residing in Ventura County. As well, it served as the main landing page for all things related to the 150th anniversary celebration.
Overall, a total of 17,167 residents attended events in person or engaged with digital content throughout the course of the year-long celebration of the establishment of the county.
Traveling “Pop-Ups”
Visit the site and view memories celebrating the County’s 150th Anniversary!
SCAN ME!
Museum of Ventura County
Jubilee Music Fest
150TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION
AWARDS & RECOGNITION
GENERAL SERVICES AGENCY
The County of Ventura was ranked number 10 in the top 50 Green Fleets in the United State by the National Association of Fleet Administrators (NAFA) Fleet Management Association. This is Fleet Service’s highest all-time ranking for this award, following 3 consecutive years placing in the Top 50 Green Fleets , representing years of achievement in green initiatives. The NAFA Green Fleet Awards are open to over 2,000 fleets from both private and public sectors.
GREEN FLEET
GSA Fleet Services proudly earned the title of #1 Green Garage in the nation and was named the #10 Green Fleet in the 2023 rankings by the National Association of Fleet Administrators (NAFA). These dual awards underscore the County of Ventura's unwavering commitment to innovative green initiatives and commend the exceptional efforts of GSA Fleet staff in advancing sustainability practices.
In a competitive field of over 2,000 fleets from private and public sectors, Ventura County's victory as #1 Green Garage reinforces the County’s leadership in eco-friendly fleet management, specifically recognizing fleet technicians and exceptional daily operational excellence. Simultaneously, achieving #10 Green Fleet highlights the ingenuity and dedication of County staff to pursue future-focused initiatives, including significant infrastructure and electrification projects across the entire fleet. The #10 Green Fleet designation emphasizes Ventura County as a peak performer on a national scale, recognizing in totality the County's progressive and environmentally committed fleet practices.
RESOURCE MANAGEMENT AGENCY
In testament to the County of Ventura's outstanding commitment to sustainability, judges celebrated expansions in green vehicle counts, advancements in vigilant preventative maintenance practices and robust green procurement policies.
Fleet achieved approximately 332 tons of greenhouse gas (GHG) savings in 2023
• Nearly tripling the plug-in electric vehicle count by the end of 2023 compared to 2022
Launched 7 electric vehicle infrastructure projects within 3 years
The Southern California Association of Governments awarded the County of Ventura with the 2023 Sustainability Award for Outstanding Achievement in Sustainability from the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG). The award, which is the most prestigious given by SCAG, was given in recognition of the Resource Management Agency’s Agricultural Worker Housing Ordinance. The Agricultural Worker Housing Ordinance was adopted in 2022 by the Board of Supervisors to promote and provide housing for agricultural workers in the region.
Requiring the most fuel-efficient vehicle possible to serve each County agency’s mission
1893 Limoneira founded
1898 Oxnard Sugar Beet Factory completed; agriculture industry grows and results in growth of population and immigration
FLEETS EARNS NATIONAL RECOGNITION: #1 GREEN GARAGE AND #10
AWARDS & RECOGNITION
AUDITOR-CONTROLLER
For the 39th consecutive year, the County of Ventura received the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) for its Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR). The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition that a County can receive in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management.
SHERIFF’S OFFICE
The Ventura County Civic Alliance, a coalition of civic leaders, ranked Ventura County the safest large county in California in its 2023 State of the Region analysis. The ranking measured violent crime and property crime rates throughout the 58 states in California. In comparison, Ventura County ranked safer than nearby Orange and San Diego Counties.
Santa Paula known as “Queen of the Silver Screen”; Agriculture supersedes mining as CA predominant industry
1900s Large portion of Ventura’s Chinese population moves to Oxnard
1903 Japanese Mexican Labor Association (Betabelero) strike
1901 Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians is federally recognized
SAFE, HEALTHY, & RESILIENT COMMUNITIES
HEALTH CARE AGENCY
The Public Health Department opened the first Milk Depot in Ventura County, located at the North Oxnard Women Infant and Child (WIC) program site. The depot, which is an initiative run in collaboration with the WIC Program, the Ventura Coast Milk Bank, the Breastfeeding Coalition of Ventura County and the University of California Health Milk Bank, will serve to supply premature and medically ill infants with human donor milk. Generous donors from across the county will register to be screened and approved to drop off breast milk that will benefit families within Ventura County and beyond.
SHERIFF’S OFFICE
In support of efforts to combat a rise in current crime trends across the state, the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office received a $15.6 million grant from the State of California to combat organized retail theft in the county. The grant will provide funds to support the creation of the Ventura County Organized Retail Theft Task Force which will include the Sheriff’s Office, the Ventura County Probation Agency, the Bureau of Investigation within the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office, as well as all local police departments. This collaborative approach will join resources throughout the county to prevent crime, investigate local organized retail theft cases, and share data regionally to identify and prosecute offenders.
1911 First woman in Ventura County registers to vote in Oxnard 1911 First women’s suffrage
SAFE, HEALTHY, & RESILIENT COMMUNITIES
EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES
Ventura County Emergency Medical Services (VCEMS) hosted a Mass Casualty Training and Full Functional Exercise sponsored by the California State Emergency Medical Services Authority in conjunction with volunteers from the Ventura County Medical Reserve Corps (VCMRC) in October at Naval Base Ventura County. This exercise, held in coordination with local law enforcement and first responder agencies, presented a commercial cruise vessel fire off the coast of Oxnard, California. VCEMS coordinated communication with local and neighboring county hospitals to facilitate the simulation of patient transport and tracking, while also partnering with the Western Region Burn Disaster Consortium and UC Irvine Medical Center to test communication pathways for transferring burn patients to burn centers. The volunteers successfully triaged, treated, and transported 63 “patients” during the course of the simulation.
FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT
The Ventura County Fire Department placed four rescue ambulances into service in Camarillo, Santa Paula, Thousand Oaks, and Simi Valley to improve service for people experiencing medical emergencies. The ambulances are staffed by the firefighter paramedics and will allow those paramedics to continue their existing work and provide vital transportation service to patients when emergency activity creates potential delays in transport to a hospital.
1914-1919 World War I
1924 Reed-Johnson Act limiting immigration from Europe and Asia
1916 Santa Paula is the first city to have a jury made up entirely of women 1920 California experiences population boom
SAFE, HEALTHY, & RESILIENT COMMUNITIES
DISTRICT ATTORNEY’S OFFICE
District Attorney Erik Nasarenko and Sheriff Jim Fryhoff announced the launch of a new website for the Ventura County Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (VCSAKI). At VCSAKI.com the public can learn about this important initiative and track the multi-agency effort to test untested sexual assault kits. The site also provides victims with the ability to contact a member of the District Attorney’s Office who can assist them in determining the status of their own sexual assault kit or obtain resources vital to their healing process.
SHERIFF’S OFFICE OF EMERGENCY SERVICES
During the January 2023 Storms, the newly formed Ventura County Sheriff’s Emergency Services Unmanned Aircraft Systems Team deployed several drone aircraft to assist with performing damage assessments. The vantage point achieved by the drone helped to establish a more complete picture of damage and was instrumental in securing federal assistance for Ventura County.
MEDICAL EXAMINER’S OFFICE
The Ventura County Medical Examiner’s Office (VCMEO), in partnership with the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office and Othram Labs, is utilizing newly emerging genetic technology to identify decedents who have been unidentified for years to decades. Forensic Genetic Genealogy technology has been increasingly utilized for this purpose by death investigation agencies across the nation. The VCMEO continues to look for novel scientific advancements to aid in the identification of decedents and to provide closure to their families.
Sexual Assault Kit Initiative
SAFE, HEALTHY, & RESILIENT COMMUNITIES
HARBOR PATROL
The Ventura County Harbor Patrol provides oversight to the County’s seasonal lifeguard program by recruiting, training, and providing the staff with the tools to successfully provide public safety services to Silverstrand, Hollywood, and Kiddie beaches from Memorial Day to Labor Day weekend. In 2023, 15 seasonal lifeguards were hired and were provided training and certification. The lifeguards performed nearly 2,000 actionable items while on duty, including rescues, medical aids, enforcement, and safety lectures. In addition, Harbor Patrol collaborated with the lifeguards to ensure beach safety by assisting in the enforcement of safety regulations and in-water rescues.
HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY
In partnership with Ventura County-based nonprofit James Storehouse, the Human Services Agency launched VC Thrive, a supplemental income pilot program serving former foster youth between the ages of 21 and 26 with low incomes. The 18-month program provides monthly stipends of $1,000 to 150 eligible individuals. The program was made possible by an over $1.5 million grant from the State Department of Social Services, $1.5 million in County funding, and $2,700 in private funds.
1930 Camarillo State Hospital opens 1930s Great Depression
1933-1934 Farmworker unionization attempted; WPA programs in place; immigrants escaping Dust Bowl arrive in California looking for agricultural work
1936 Fillmore Artists’ Barn, Ventura County’s first art gallery, opens
FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY & ECONOMIC VITALITY
ARTS & CULTURE DIVISION
The County Arts and Culture Division received two significant grants in 2023 – the first being a Humanities for All grant from California Humanities, a non-profit partner of the National Endowment for the Humanities, which helped support projects connected to the County’s 150th Anniversary Events. Funds from the grant supported a variety of events from arts and culture organizations across the county. The second was a $140,000 grant from the Central Coast Creative Corps, which, in partnership with the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and the District Attorney’s Family Justice Center, is supporting a local artist in developing arts and culture programs to support FJC clients.
ECONOMIC VITALITY DIVISION
The Economic Vitality program celebrated the launch of the Business Forward website – a central resource hub outlining Ventura County business associations and incubators, chambers of commerce, government organizations, and other resources like the Workforce Development Board and the Economic Development Collaborative that both provide support and prioritize the improvement of industry, economy and equity for our region. Business and individuals looking for information can visit businessforwardvc.com
HARBOR DEPARTMENT
After a 3-year hiatus due to the pandemic, the Ventura County Harbor Department brought back the July 4th Fireworks by the Sea - Ventura County’s only seaside fireworks show. The Harbor Department was able to meet the new stricter-permitting rules from the Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board. The new rules forced many other coastal destinations in Southern California to cancel their shows. The fireworks show draws more than 20,000 visitors, providing an economic boost for many local businesses.
1942 Chief of US Naval Operations appropriates the Port Hueneme Harbor and surrounding land to establish Naval Advanced Base Depot
1941 3,500-4,000 lemon pickers and packers go on strike in January. Ends July 14
RELIABLE INFRASTRUCTURE & SUSTAINABILITY
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
Phase 1 of the broadband Middle Mile project was initiated and consists of the installation of high-density fiber along the Highway 126 and Santa Paula Branch Railway corridor in the Santa Clara Valley. An initiative that includes partners from across state and local agencies, the project is designed to bring internet access to historically under-served communities and will serve approximately 1,500 households in the area.
HEALTH CARE AGENCY
PUBLIC WORKS AGENCY
The Arroyo Simi Grade Control Structure No. 14 Replacement project (GCS-14) replaced an existing failed and severely damaged concrete and rock grade control stabilizer constructed in the early 1960s. Grade control structures act like mini dams, or speed bumps, preventing the river’s invert, or bottom, from eroding and washing away the banks of the creek. The replacement of the grade control structure helped prevent the erosion and deterioration of the Leta Yancy pedestrian bridge. Total construction cost for this project was $2,819,884.
The Ventura County Medical Center (VCMC) expanded the hospital’s ability to provide premier pediatric care close to home by bringing in new pediatric specialists and service lines. The hospital initiated a new collaboration with Community Memorial Hospital (CMH) to merge and move CMH’s in-patient pediatric care to VCMC. Through the merger, pediatric patients and their families will have access to the only Pediatric Intensive Care Unit in the county.
1942 Bracero program begins; Japanese relocation begins
1942 Oxnard Buena Vista Labor Camp the largest of its kinds in the US
1946 Naval Air Missile Test Center established at Point Mugu
1948 Matilija Dam completed
RELIABLE INFRASTRUCTURE & SUSTAINABILITY
LIBRARY SYSTEM
In support of updating and modernizing several library branch locations, the Ventura County Library received a $980,000 grant for the Meiners Oaks Library construction project, a $1.5 million grant for the Port Hueneme Ray D. Prueter Library facility upgrades project, and a $8.7 million grant for the E.P. Foster Library HVAC installation project. Funding for the projects was received from local and federal resources.
SUSTAINABILITY DIVISION
GENERAL SERVICES AGENCY
In an effort to support sustainable practices in and around County facilities while keeping the grounds beautiful, the General Services Agency planted over 80 drought tolerant and California native trees. The initiative occurred through the Solar Panel Tree Mitigation project. The beauty and success of the native gardens, succulent gardens, and pollinator and butterfly garden which GSA Grounds team have installed around the Government Center have garnered much public curiosity and high praise.
In collaboration with the Clean Power Alliance, the County’s Sustainability Division initiated a project to invest in the county’s electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure. The project, which will expand electric vehicle charging stations, will create a network of 1,500 stations across the county by 2025. The expansion is an element of the County’s Climate Action Plan that provides information and resources for residents on ways to make sustainable changes in in favor of green energy.
Margaret Keller becomes first
RELIABLE INFRASTRUCTURE & SUSTAINABILITY
AGRICULTURE / WEIGHTS & MEASURES
Ventura County Department of Agriculture/Weights and Measures (VCAWM) began testing and sealing commercial Electric Vehicle Charging Station (EVCS) devices for the first time during the summer and continued to do so throughout the rest of 2023. All EVCS used for commercial purposes are subject to regulation including being registered and tested by VCAWM. Staff members were trained and certified by the California Department of Measurement Standards to use their TESCO 4000 electric vehicle charging standard to test the devices. VCAWM inspection/testing ensures that the Electric Vehicle Charging stations are accurate, the equipment is type evaluated (certified for commercial purposes) and installed by a licensed registered service agent.
HARBOR DEPARTMENT
Following extensive public outreach, the Channel Island Harbor Department entered into an “exclusive right to negotiate” (ERN) agreement with developer Karl’s – a company based in Germany – to redevelop the Fisherman’s Wharf property in the Harbor. The proposed re-development of Fisherman’s Wharf will incorporate new commercial and recreational spaces for residents, including stores and restaurants.
AGRICULTURE / WEIGHTS & MEASURES
This year VCAWM staff trained several different groups and individuals at public events, such as Caltrans, REI, and at the Ventura County Fair, on how to use iNaturalist and on the importance of early detection rapid response of invasive plants. iNaturalist is an easy-to-use phone application which helps anyone identify and map plants they encounter in the field. Many new Ventura County locations of invasive plants that were new or limited in range were “discovered” by people who work/play in the outdoors and use iNaturalist. Staff from VCAWM and partners in the Ventura County Weed Management Area work to remove these new/rare invasive plants to save money and protect agricultural and natural areas. iNaturalist app
1969 Santa Barbara oil spill covers Ventura County beaches
Patagonia founded
1966 William Soo Hoo becomes Mayor of Oxnard, first mayor of Chinese descent in California
HOMELESSNESS & VULNERABLE POPULATIONS
COUNTY EXECUTIVE OFFICE
To expand services to individuals experiencing homelessness in the Santa Clara Valley, the Board of Supervisors voted to approve $1.62 million in funding to support services in the cities of Santa Paula, Fillmore, and the unincorporated area of Piru. The funding from the County will match funding provided by the cities of Santa Paula and Fillmore, as well as the State of California. The funds, which will be provided over a two-year period starting in 2024, will go to support ongoing operations of a permanent year-round shelter with housing navigation services administrated by the non-profit Spirit of Santa Paula.
SHERIFF’S OFFICE
CONTINUUM OF CARE
In partnership with the City of Ventura, the Continuum of Care worked to secure a $32 million grant from the state of California for the development of permanent supportive housing. The grant, which was awarded in October, represents the largest Project Homekey grant to have been awarded by the State. The funds will go toward acquiring and renovating the La Quinta Inn in Ventura.
In April, the Sheriff’s Office celebrated the ribbon cutting and officially opened the Health and Programming Unit (HPU) located at the Todd Road Jail. The HPU provides a 64-bed expansion of the facility to provide treatment for those inmate-patients with medical/ mental health needs. With a dedicated clinic on-site, that includes both medical and dental exam and associated staff support, the new unit reduces the need to transport inmates outside of the facility for specialized care, allowing increased access to essential, on-site medical attention for incarcerated individuals. To support the expansion, eight Sheriff Deputies and six Sheriff Service Technicians were brought on to staff the HPU.
1980 Maggie Kildee and Susan Lacey become first women elected to the Board of Supervisors
1994 First woman, Kathryn Kemp reaches the rank of Commander at Ventura County Sheriff’s Office
SOAR passes
DIVERSE & INNOVATIVE WORKFORCE
DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION OFFICE
The Office of DEI partnered together with the District Attorney’s Office and hosted an International Women’s Day event in the community at the Family Justice Center. Over 120 individuals from the community attended. The event served as an opportunity for families to engage with prominent local women leaders and pioneers.
EMPLOYEE LEARNING & DEVELOPMENT
The County Executive Office HR Learning and Organizational Development Department launched the Cornerstone Learning Management System (LMS) in summer of 2023. The LMS is now available to all County employees and is a valuable tool for professional development. It serves as a “one stop shop” for enrolling in courses, completing online training, tracking progress, and getting access to information and skills that will help employees expand in their roles and grow professionally.
DISTRICT ATTORNEY’S OFFICE
The Ventura County District Attorney’s Office was recognized in 2023 by the State Bar of California as a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Leadership Seal recipient in the inaugural cohort of the State Bar’s new DEI Leadership Seal program. The DEI Leadership Seal recognizes legal employers with California attorneys that commit to and implement research-driven actions that further workplace diversity, equity, and inclusion. The Ventura County District Attorney’s Office is currently the only District Attorney’s Office or Public Defender’s Office in the state to be honored with a seal.
HUMAN SERVICES AGENCY
The Workforce Development Board of Ventura County, part of the Human Services Agency, launched the SkillUp Ventura County program. The program offers Ventura County residents free electronic training (eTraining) through Metrix Learning. Through this online learning portal of over 6000+ courses, individuals can refresh existing skills and learn new ones that will help ensure their success in the ever-changing employment market. With assistance from a Career Navigator, job seekers can explore career pathways, view local job postings, register for free online learning, and receive workforce services. The program already has over 860 individuals who have accessed the free online courses.
GOOD GOVERNMENT
LIBRARY SYSTEM
Thanks to a $135,000 grant in support of the “Lunch at the Library” program, more than 2,700 children received a free lunch while participating in the Summer Reading program at three library branches in 2023. The funding helps support programs that fill in the gaps for students while school is out-of-session and ensures that children continue to have access to healthy, nutritional foods.
ANIMAL SERVICES
During the annual “Clear the Shelters” one-day adoption event, organized by NBC Universal and Telemundo-52, Animal Services found forever homes for 115 shelter animals. This event, well-known in the community, always attracts a crowd of passionate animal lovers eager to welcome a new member into their family. This year was no different, with over 200 people patiently waiting in line before the doors opened and filled with hope and anticipation to find their next furry friend.
DEPARTMENT OF CHILD SUPPORT SERVICES
The VCDCSS launched a new educational series, narrowing its focus on fathers with the Empowering Fathers Series. This series consisted of live webinars that provided education on dismantling barriers to involvement in their children’s lives. Each presentation was delivered in English and Spanish by local subject matter experts and resulted in a total attendance count of 179. This series serves as a precursor to a larger fatherhood initiative that is currently under development by VCDCSS.
DISTRICT ATTORNEY
The County of Ventura entered into an agreement to purchase a building in downtown Oxnard, which will serve as the future home of the Carmen Ramirez Family Justice Center. The two-story, 32,000-square-foot building, located at 555/545 South A Street will reach and help Oxnard and Port Hueneme families who have faced trauma and abuse. The Family Justice Center, a resource administered by the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office, is a community support system that uses a holistic approach to uplift and empower victims and their families by offering a comprehensive selection of services to Ventura County residents seeking a safe environment to recover, heal, and break the cycle of violence.
2018 Monica McGrath is the first woman to reach the rank of Undersheriff
2019 Kelly White is the first woman to serve in the role of Assistant Fire Chief for the Ventura County Fire Department
GOOD GOVERNMENT
PUBLIC DEFENDER’S OFFICE
The Fresh Start program, offered by the Ventura County Public Defender, expanded their services by hosting more than 10 free legal clinics in 2023. The team assisted participants at the Ventura Training Center Firefighting Academy, Geo RRC, numerous sober living homes throughout the county, and even showed up at local parks to offer post-conviction relief options and provide the possibility of greater employment and housing opportunities to Justice involved community members. The Public Defender Fresh Start team, made up of lawyers and law clerks, can be found monthly at One Stop Oxnard, Swap Meet Justice and the GEO Resource & Reporting Center throughout 2024 as well.
BEHAVIORAL HEALTH
PROBATION AGENCY
Ventura County Probation Agency’s Juvenile Services Division created ‘Williams Place,’ a space where youth and young adults on probation can earn the opportunity to “shop” for essential items such as gently used clothing and shoes, personal hygiene items, and more. The room has custom florescent lighting, brick wallpaper and trendy music. Youth have commented about how they love Williams Place and look forward to coming in and the incentives they receive for positive behaviors.
The Recovery Incentives Program: California’s Contingency Management Benefit, was launched this year, serving Medi-Cal members over the age of 12 who have a moderate or severe stimulant use disorder (StimUD). As an evidence-based treatment, this program provides motivational incentives to treat individuals living with StimUD and supports their path to recovery. The program works with patients and encourages success by recognizing and reinforcing individual positive behavioral change.
2020 Carmen Ramirez becomes first Latina County Supervisor
2023 Ventura County celebrates 150 years 2020 COVID-19 Pandemic 2022 Dr. Sevet Johnson becomes first County CEO who is black
