District 1: Supervisor Larry Micari

While we continue to make progress in our advocacy effort to win the ability for Secret Guerrilla Unit (SGU) fighters to apply for veteran's benefits, I have inadvertently made some groups feel left out. I apologize for this error. Our effort is about honoring the people who protected and served our country in Vietnam. It is about opening the door for more people. This is about recognizing service to this country.

This effort has caused individuals from across the country to reach out and even led to media coverage from outlets like Military.com. And with our resolution being added to the National Association of Counties' (NACo) legislative platform, this provides a way for counties across the country to advocate for the SGU and similarly situated groups under the NACo umbrella.

I will continue to advocate for SGU fighters to Congress and invite others to join our effort.

District 2: Supervisor Pete Vander Poel

The Thriving Pixley Advisory Council (TPAC) continues to play an important role in identifying and advancing transportation and infrastructure priorities for the Pixley community. Supported through COMTO in partnership with the Federal Department of Transportation, this effort ensures that local input is directly shaping future improvements.

Tulare County is actively supporting this initiative through coordination with the Tulare County Regional Transit Agency (TCRTA), our Resource Management Agency (RMA), and our partnership with Self-Help Enterprises. These collaborations are focused on delivering practical, community-driven solutions that improve infrastructure, safety, accessibility, and connectivity.

This is the kind of focused, collaborative work that leads to real results. We remain committed to supporting TPAC and ensuring that Pixley continues to see meaningful, long-term progress.

District 3: Supervisor Amy Shuklian

As the first buds of spring begin to appear across our county, I find myself reflecting on the theme of renewal in a very personal way. This month, I’m not just watching the landscape change; I’m undergoing a bit of a "seasonal transition" of my own following my recent total knee replacement surgery.

Much like our county’s infrastructure, our physical health requires maintenance to keep things moving smoothly. After years of "patching the potholes" of joint pain, I decided it was time for a full reconstruction.

The surgery was a success, and while the recovery process requires patience and a steady "work zone" of physical therapy, the goal is clear: to return to full strength so I can continue to represent your interests with the energy and mobility this office demands.

Spring is a busy time for our county. We are breaking ground on new projects, finalizing budgets, and preparing for the vibrant months ahead. While my stride might be a little slower for a few weeks, my focus on our community’s progress remains as sharp as ever.

District 4: Supervisor Eddie Valero

There are moments in a community’s story when you can feel a new chapter begin. And in London, that moment is now.

The groundbreaking of the new London Hodges Community Center represents a symbol of investment, pride, and possibility. Made possible through Tulare County’s ARPA funding, in partnership with Proteus and our Health & Human Services Agency (HHSA), this project reflects what can happen when we come together with purpose.

This community center is a place where families gather, youth find opportunity, and community takes root. Many activities and programs run through the center, so I’m happy that the new space will facilitate greater opportunity.

What’s happening in London is part of a larger commitment across Tulare County: to build stronger, more connected communities where every resident feels seen, supported, and valued.

This is collective impact.

And it’s just the beginning.

District 5: Supervisor Dennis Townsend

This month, I attended the ribbon cutting ceremony for the Tulare County Public Health Lab. Before the $3.7 million grant from the Centers for Disease Control to expand the facility, the lab served as a vital resource for monitoring and detecting health threats, including foodborne illnesses, infectious diseases, environmental contaminants, and bioterrorism agents. The Public Health Lab serves the central California region by providing reference and specialized testing, outbreak investigation support, and training for students, local hospitals, and future microbiologists. This cutting-edge facility employs highly trained professionals and will provide more training for students and lab staff in the region, as well as increasing surge capacity.

I was impressed by the newly expanded facility during my tour. The team is highly trained and has extensive partnerships with area hospitals and universities to support specialized needs. These are the people who test our milk for quality, provide internships for students, help protect us from bioterrorism, and identify outbreaks in the region.