Nursery Ordinance Update

I proposed an amendment that would allow nurseries to sell inorganic mineral materials like rocks, gravel, or decomposed granite without percentage limitations, with the current 20% cap applying only to non-agricultural items such as pots and garden furniture. Before this change all materials being sold had a 20% cap on them. This limited the amount of space a nursery could use to sell these items that help us become a more water conscience County. This change supports local nurseries, encourages water-efficient landscaping, and aligns with the County’s efforts to conserve water amidst drought conditions. The board unanimously approved this amendment with a 5-0 vote, reflecting strong support for these sustainability measures.

Visit to Royal High School

I had the privilege of visiting Royal High School to speak with students about Profiles in Courage. It was an inspiring day, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to engage with such bright and motivated minds.

Human Trafficking Awareness Month

January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month, a time to educate and inspire action against this issue. I presented Soroptimist International of Simi Valley with a proclamation on January 14th in recognition of their efforts to stop human trafficking, with the impactful Apathy Effect Exhibit. This powerful exhibit sheds light on the resilience of trafficking survivors and the need for collective action to end modern-day slavery. Together, we can combat human trafficking and support survivors.

The Free Clinic of Simi Valley is Off The Grid

On October 30th, we celebrated the ribbon cutting for the Free Clinic’s new Solar Energy Program. Direct Relief generously donated the solar panels, but the roof needed repairs beforehand. I was able to successfully secure $120,000 in funding to cover the repairs. This project is a wonderful collaboration between the County, the Free Clinic of Simi Valley, and Direct Relief. We’re thrilled to see the impact of this initiative and the savings the Free Clinic will achieve by going off the grid!

2024 Disability Summit

In September 2024, Ventura County's Office of Disability Access, led by Dani Anderson, hosted California's first statewide Government and Disability Summit at the Crown Plaza Ventura Beach. The four-day event drew 225 attendees and featured 18 breakout sessions on topics like emergency preparedness, advocacy, and employment. Highlights included an opening speech by Rebecca Cokley of the Ford Foundation and panels on Emergency Preparedness, Disability and Aging, and Employment, where I had the opportunity to introduce the speakers for the Employment Plenary. All five Ventura County Supervisors participated, showcasing the county as a leader in disability access. Building on its success, Ventura County will host a larger summit, themed "Disability throughout the Lifespan," on September 23-26, 2025. More details will be available at www.govdisabilitysummit.org in late January.

States Top Learning Award Presented To

Madera Elementary School

Madera Elementary School in Simi Valley achieved a historic milestone when California Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero visited the campus to celebrate its Civics Learning Award of Excellence. As the only elementary school in the state to receive this top honor in 2024, Madera’s recognition highlights its outstanding commitment to fostering active citizenship and leadership among its students. The celebration included a commemorative plaque presentation, student performances, and the swearing-in of the school’s new student council, underscoring Madera’s role as a model for civic education statewide.

I attended the grand opening of the Ron Helus Training Facility, the Sheriff’s department’s new training facility and gun range. It’s a state-of-the-art facility with three distinct sections designed for different training scenarios. As the largest of its kind in the county, it’s also utilized by other first responder agencies.

I had the privilege of meeting and touring with the Finnish Consulate at the Reagan Library on Election Day. They showed great interest in learning about our voting process and had the chance to observe the polling area within the library. It was a unique and rewarding experience to spend Election Day at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, sharing insights about our electoral system in such a historic setting.

19th Annual Firefighter Memorial Ceremony

I attended the 19th Annual Firefighter Memorial Ceremony, a truly moving and heartfelt experience. The event honored the bravery, sacrifice, and dedication of firefighters who have lost their lives in the line of duty. It was a time for reflection, gratitude, and unity as families, colleagues, and community members gathered to pay tribute. The ceremony featured touching speeches, a solemn bell-ringing tradition, and moments of silence to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Being part of such a meaningful occasion left a lasting impression and reinforced the deep respect I have for these selfless heroes.

Spark of Love

Helped spread holiday cheer by packing toys for distribution with Spark of Love hosted by Ventura County Fire Department.

We invite you to join the Battle of the Badges Blood Drive on February 6, 2025, from 1:00 PM - 7:00 PM at Arroyo Vista Community Park in Moorpark. Donors will receive a $15 e-gift card of their choice. Be a hero and save lives!

Visit RedCrossBlood.org and use sponsor code "VCPARVIN" to schedule your appointment.

I’m excited to announce my Town Hall event, happening on March 27th at 6:00 PM at 99.1 The Ranch in the Simi Valley Town Center. This event will feature local leaders from the City of Simi Valley, the Simi Valley Police Department, the Economic Development Collaborative, Ventura County Behavioral Health, and the Ventura County Veterans Services Office. I look forward to an engaging evening of discussion and collaboration with our community. Be sure to preregister at this link.

Mrs. Dandekar, a long-serving member of the Ventura County Area Agency on Aging Advisory Council, is highly qualified with a Master’s in Public Health, a Bachelor’s in Chemistry and Physics, and certification as a registered yoga therapist. A retired clinical manager from Anthem Blue Cross, she is committed to giving back to her community.

Carolyn Johnson is the Administrative Services Director for the City of Simi Valley, where she leads a team of 40 staff members across five divisions. She holds a master’s degree in business administration from California Lutheran University. A passionate advocate for empowering women, Carolyn supports the mission of the United Way and is dedicated to helping women build the confidence and financial knowledge needed to thrive personally and professionally. She is a valuable addition to Women United of the United Way of Ventura County.