District 1: Supervisor Larry Micari

We’ve been paying special attention to our parks since 2020, and the results are impressive. More than $8 million in ARPA funds made it possible to upgrade arbor signs, murals, pumps, fencing, as well as repaving the roads across County Parks. Reservations can now be made online at https://www.parks.tularecounty.ca.gov/, and starting this month, entry fees have been removed so more people can enjoy our parks.

During the Board of Supervisors meeting on July 22, more additions to the parks were presented with the Parks Improvement Plan for Fiscal Years 2025/2026-2029/2030. Based on community feedback, improvement plans also include sports fields and shade structures. The total proposed budget for new projects is $3.8 million and would be distributed between each of the eleven parks.

In District 1, Cutler Park can look forward to new sports fields, and Woodville Park has plans for sports fields and a sunshade. With these additions, our parks will become more accessible and desirable to use during these long summer months.

District 2: Supervisor Pete Vander Poel

A Milestone for Safety & Access in District 2! – Avenue 56 Project Complete

I'm proud to share that the permanent raising of Avenue 56—just west of Alpaugh—is now fully complete. This 219-foot overpass, built with reinforced concrete and steel, lifts traffic safely over the future high-speed rail line. It’s the first project of its kind finished in Tulare County. What began as an emergency response to severe flooding during the pandemic has now become a lasting investment in safety.

In 2023, the temporary berms provided crucial emergency access. Today, that access is permanent—ensuring our communities stay connected, even in extreme conditions. This project reflects our ongoing commitment to protecting District 2 families and improving local infrastructure. I’m grateful for your support, and I’ll keep working to ensure safer, stronger routes for everyone—no matter the weather.

District 3: Supervisor Amy Shuklian

Did you hear: Tulare County is getting a new website! We added a teaser in this newsletter to help everyone be ready for a change.

So, what can you expect on the new website?

• New look: page layouts will be similar across departments to make finding information easier, and colors all come from the Tulare County seal
• Translation option: the site will display in English but can switch to Spanish; we’re working on more languages to be available in the future
• Search for services: not sure where to find a service you need? We added the “I Need To…” search bar at the top of every page to help you find options quickly
• Department pages: If you are used to visiting a department page, it will still be there and ready to use

The internet is always evolving, and our websites will be as well. The goal is to keep you connected to services and information, so keep an eye out for our new look coming in August!

District 4: Supervisor Eddie Valero

As we enter the month of August, our communities are buzzing with the excitement of a new school year. Let us all do our part to ensure a safe and successful start for students across Tulare County. Please remember to drive cautiously in school zones and stay alert for students walking or biking to class.

Many organizations throughout the county are hosting backpack and school supply distributions—take advantage of these resources and share them with families who may benefit.

This season also offers a meaningful opportunity to connect with your children, encourage them to begin the school year with confidence, curiosity, and a commitment to kindness. Remind them that if they see something, they should say something, especially when it comes to bullying or unsafe behavior.

Together, we can build supportive environments where all students thrive.

Here’s to a strong start and a safe school year for all!

District 5: Supervisor Dennis Townsend

Balch Park is a beautiful park adjacent to the Mountain Home State Demonstration Forest. It has been enjoyed by countless campers, people on day trips, and fishing outings over the years and has also been the backdrop for movies, commercials, and music videos. Many also know it is the location of the Balch Park Pack Station where visitors can enjoy guided trail rides into the majestic forest.

This small pack station has a surprisingly wide range of admirers and users. It is Tulare County’s only remaining pack station and a wonderful way to visit our State and National Forests. Thanks to the efforts of the lessee, trails are also maintained by them and volunteers working with them. These trails are used as emergency access for firefighters, law enforcement, rescue teams, and cabins located in the back country. Balch Park and the Pack Station are some of the must-experience jewels in Tulare County.