Email header image has large text that reads 'Supervisor Belia Ramos District 5 Updates' and smaller text below reads 'July 2025'. The official Napa County seal is featured in the bottom left corner. The header includes three photos that are graphically cropped on a diagonal. The first is three people, two adult women and a teenage boy standing together and smiling. Two of them are wearing bicycling gear and the woman in the center is dressed more professionally. The second photo is of two adult women looking at a falcon being held by one of them. In the background there is a table and people walking indicating an outreach fair or event is happening. The last photo has two firefighters in the foreground who are lighting a prescribed and controlled burn. Part of the dry grass is burnt and on fire.

Hello friends and neighbors,

Happy July! In County talk we say, “happy new fiscal year!” As we gear up to celebrate Independence Day, I want to remind everyone to enjoy the 4th safely and responsibly. Whether you’re watching fireworks, hosting a family BBQ, or simply relaxing at home, please be mindful of fire safety, pets, and one another. We have requested cautionary signs in Coombsville to remind us all about heightened fire dangers. Let’s keep our celebrations fun and safe for the whole community. If you want to see fireworks, head to American Canyon for the best fireworks show in the County!

This past month, I had the privilege of participating in Rock the Ride, a powerful event promoting gun violence awareness and prevention that was started by our own Congressman Thompson. It was even more special this year because my son Lucas joined me for the bike ride. Sharing that experience with him—and seeing so many families come together for such an important cause—was truly heartwarming.

A few days ago, I celebrated my 20th year as a resident of American Canyon. It has flown by in the blink of an eye. I’m deeply grateful to call this community, and all of Napa County, home. It’s where I’ve raised my family, built lasting friendships, and witnessed the incredible creativity, resilience and kindness of our neighbors.

Thank you for allowing me to serve you. I hope you have a safe, meaningful, and joy-filled July!

Sincerely,

Handwritten signature of the name Belia Ramos

P.S. It is my honor to serve you and the County of Napa. Please feel free to reach out to me and/or my District Aide Melissa Moize with any County-related issue, concern or ideas. We can be reached at (707)253-6170; belia.ramos@countyofnapa.org; and melissa.moize@countyofnapa.org

P.P.S. Reminder that the District 5 satellite office is now open, and we are regularly there on Wednesdays and Thursdays. You can also schedule an appointment there through Melissa. Please note this office will be closed July 3-4 for the holiday.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

You're Invited to a FREE Summer Swim Day!

District 5 is excited to be sponsoring a Free Summer Swim Day at the American Canyon Phillip West Aquatics Center on Friday, August 1 1:30-4pm! No registration is required; we'll be welcoming drop-in participants until the pool reaches max capacity. Hope you can join us for some summer recreation and community connection!

Graphic that has the title in large purple text that reads Budget in Brief Fiscal Year 2025-2026. Below is the image of a US dollar bill with portions highlighted in different colors with arrows pointing at them representing different ratios of the dollar. The Napa County seal is in the bottom right corner over a large dark purple block.

County Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Budget Adopted

The Board officially adopted the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 budget at the meeting on June 24. The adopted budget keeps vital County programs and departments fully operational while also making some key investments in capital improvements. New projects budgeted for the upcoming fiscal year include $30 million in facility, road and bridge improvements, preventive bridge maintenance, the updated facilities space plan and plan development, and others. The full adopted budget will be added to the Budget page soon, and you can find the recommended one here.

Read the Budget-In-Brief for a process overview and highlights >>>

Graphic of three square yellow traffic signs. The first depicts a person shoveling. The center one has large letters that read 'Under Construction'. The third has a person standing holding a small shovel.

Construction Updates

With so many construction and projects underway this summer, I wanted to remind you where you can easily find information about current projects and possible impacts to your neighborhoods and daily routes.

Napa County Roads Projects

American Canyon Construction & Development Updates

City of Napa Public Works Projects

Photo of a creek or stream that has some algae. Water is still and there are some trees in the background on both banks.

Wildlife Conservation Commission Grant Funds Available

Napa County’s Wildlife Conservation Commission is now accepting grant applications for the 2025–26 cycle, supporting efforts to preserve local fish and wildlife. Eligible projects may include habitat restoration, wildlife rehabilitation, and environmental education. Applications are due by Monday, July 21, 2025, and will be reviewed on August 25. Materials are available online and at the Planning, Building, and Environmental Services office.

More information and application instructions >>>

SUMMER SAFETY UPDATES

A safety poster from the Napa County Sheriff's Office titled Stay Safe at the Lake Important Lake Safety Tips for Everyone. It lists eight key safety tips. 1 Wear a life jacket. Always swim with a buddy while wearing a property fitted life jacket. 2 Know your limits. Avoid swimming far from shore or in unfamiliar areas. 3 Supervise children closely. Drowning can happen quickly and silently. Keep constant eyes on kids. 4 Respect wildlife and nature. Don't disturb habitant. Be cautious of slippery rocks and underwater obstacles. 5 Avoid alcohol near water. Alcohol impairs judgement and coordination in and around water. 6 Use the right equipment. Ensure boats jet skis and flotation devices are in good working order. 7 Learn CPR. It can save a life while waiting for help. 8 Pack a safety kit. Include a first aid kit phone whistle sunscreen and water. The background features a scenic lake with trees hills and safety icons illustrating each tip. At the bottom it says Be Smart and Be Prepared.

Life Jackets at the Lake

With summer in full swing, I want to share the Sheriff’s Office tips on how to stay safe at the lake. Please remember to be safe and make sure everyone you’re with is wearing a life jacket. Free life jackets are available at all Lake Berryessa concessions in case you don’t have them already.

Alert Napa County

I also want to remind you to sign up for Alert Napa County to receive urgent and emergency updates about severe weather, planned and unexpected road closures, evacuations, natural disasters, and more. You can sign up online or by texting your zip code to 888777.

PG&E Enhanced Power Safety Settings (EPSS)

Enhanced Power Safety Settings (EPSS) allow PG&E powerlines to automatically turn off power within one-tenth of a second. This can happen when there’s a hazard, like a tree branch falling into a powerline, and is meant to help protect communities by reducing the risk of starting a fire. These settings are enabled in high fire-risk and surrounding areas, which includes much of Napa County. This link will take you to a downloadable PDF EPSS Fact Sheet.

For more information about Enhanced Power Safety Settings >>>more information about Enhanced Power Safety Settings (*For English, Espanol, and Tagalog language, use the translation button in the top right corner).

Screen shot of the Pacific Gas and Electric website referred to as PG and E. Large black text reads Enhanced Powerline Safety Settings. A dark blue arrow points to a menu on the right of different languages including Tagalog English Hmoob Espanol.

COUNTY UPDATES

Photo of an outdoor courtyard area of a modern behavioral health treatment center. The scene features a curved concrete walkway bordered by green artificial turf and a section of straw covered ground possibly for future landscaping. The buildings are single story with a mix of earth tone colors including olive green walls and an orange accent structure. Several benches are placed along the walkway and the area appears clean quiet and secure with a tall metal fence and gate in the background. The overall environment looks calm and structured designed for therapeutic and recreational use.

Board Approves Funding for Behavior Health Treatment Center

On June 3, the Board of Supervisors took a major step to expand behavioral health services by approving the transformation of the County’s former Reentry Facility into a new Behavioral Health Treatment Center. This thoughtfully repurposed space will soon offer residential treatment, crisis stabilization, and a sobering center—all designed to support some of our most vulnerable neighbors.

Learn more about the Behavior Health Treatment Center >>>

Photo of a daytime view of the Napa County Administrative Building located at 1195 Third Street in Napa California. In the foreground a large sign displays the Napa County seal and the building name and address in raised letters. The building behind the sign is a modern three story structure with beige and brown tones large windows and a clean well maintained exterior. Youn trees with early spring leaves and trimmed landscaping are visible in front of the building under a clear blue sky. The inscription at the top of the sign reads A Tradition of Stewardship A Commitment to Service.

County Recommends Phased Approach for Facilities Improvements

In light of rising construction costs and a cautious economic outlook, Napa County is taking a more flexible approach to upgrading its facilities. Instead of moving forward with a large-scale project, the County is focusing on immediate, high-priority improvements—like repairing critical infrastructure, relocating departments to ease space constraints, and enhancing safety across several sites. This interim plan balances fiscal responsibility with the need to maintain safe, functional workspaces, while allowing time to shape a more sustainable long-term solution.

Learn more about the phased approach >>>

Photo of four Napa County Supervisors standing in front of a helicopter. The four women stand in front of a large white and gray helicopter with black and red accents on a sunny day. The helicopter's tail number N238P is visible on the side and its large rotor blades extend overhead. The group is standing on a paved surface with visible cracks and the background includes a clear blue sky.

CAL FIRE Contract Renewed for 3 Years

Strengthening our decades-long partnership with CAL FIRE, Napa County has approved a new three-year, $64.6 million agreement to ensure continued fire protection, emergency response, and disaster preparedness in unincorporated areas. Starting July 1, 2025, the agreement includes new positions to enhance fire investigation and equipment oversight, building on recent improvements to the County’s volunteer firefighter program. This renewed collaboration reflects the County’s ongoing commitment to public safety and resilience in the face of growing wildfire risks.

As a demonstration of that commitment, CAL FIRE recently showcased three helicopters stationed in the region, including a powerful Boeing CH-47D Chinook now based at the Napa County Airport. With a water-carrying capacity of 2,300 gallons and the ability to lift up to 26,000 pounds, the Chinook plays a critical role in aerial firefighting operations. It was joined by a CAL FIRE Hawk and a UH-60A+ Blackhawk, both part of a robust helitack strategy supporting rapid wildfire response. The Chinook will remain stationed at the airport through September 2025, continuing its essential work in keeping Napa County fire ready.

REGIONAL UPDATES

Five professionally dressed individuals stand together smiling for a group photo in a modern conference room. They each wear name badges and delegate ribbons around their necks indicating attendance at a formal event. The group includes three women and two men standing in front of a backdrop of white chairs arranged in rows suggesting a meeting or seminar setting. One man holds a blue folder and a water bottle. The atmosphere is bright and friendly reflecting a professional and welcoming environment.

Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) held General Assembly

The Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) held its annual General Assembly on June 20. Representatives from all 9 Bay Area Counties and 101 cities are invited to vote on the Proposed Budget and Work Program for the upcoming fiscal year. This year also included a review of proposed bylaw amendments that would increase efficiency and transparency for ABAG. As ABAG President, I am proud to report that both the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Proposed Budget and Work Plan, and the Proposed Bylaw Amendments were overwhelmingly approved by the delegates present.

The Fiscal Year 2025-26 Budget and Workplan prioritizes financial sustainability, regional collaboration, and continued delivery of critical programs. A major focus remains ABAG’s $18 million unfunded pension liability—linked to employees who retired before 2017. While this presents a financial challenge, ABAG is fully committed to honoring these obligations without shifting undue burdens onto cities and counties.

Thanks to strong financial planning and partnerships, the budget limits the membership dues increase to just 3% this year, a notable shift from prior 10% hikes. Meanwhile, key regional programs like BayREN and the San Francisco Estuary Partnership continue to thrive, delivering real, on-the-ground benefits in energy efficiency, water quality, and environmental resilience. Despite the challenges, ABAG remains focused on supporting the region’s cities and counties through smart, impactful work.

See ABAG’s 2025-2026 Budget and Work Program >>>

Graphic of a cross sectional diagram illustrating a coastal wetland system transitioning from ocean to inland. The diagram is labeled from left to right Mudflat Tidal Marsh Brackish Marsh and Freshwater Swale Arrows indicate environmental processes. Wave Attenuation is shown between the Tidal Marsh and Brackish Marsh and Seepage flows from the Brackish Marsh into the Freshwater Swale. At the far right Treated Wastewater and or Stormwater is shown being introduced into the Freshwater Swale. The diagram highlights the role of marsh zones in buffering waves and filtering water through natural seepage.

Innovative Nature-Based Solution to Protect the Bay Area Shoreline

Led by the San Francisco Estuary Partnership (SFEP), the First Mile Horizontal Levee Project pioneers a new approach to shoreline protection along the Hayward shoreline by combining habitat restoration, wastewater treatment, and flood defense. Using wetland plants, it strengthens the levee, buffers wave action, and provides valuable habitat for plants and wildlife as sea levels rise.

By reducing pollutants and enhancing flood protection, the project supports SFEP’s mission to safeguard the estuary and the communities that depend on it. Strong collaboration with local agencies and community partners ensures the design meets diverse needs, offering a model for resilient, multi-benefit climate solutions.

AMERICAN CANYON UPDATES

American Canyon Adopts Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Budget

On June 3, the City Council approved American Canyon’s $154.2 million budget for Fiscal Year 2025-26, reflecting the City’s focus on responsible growth and high-quality services. The $32.7 million operating budget is balanced, adds four new staff positions, and maintains strong financial reserves. Key investments include $16.4 million for the Green Island Road reconstruction and walking trail, $8.1 million for improvements in Rancho Del Mar, and $9.8 million dedicated to police services. With new homes, local businesses, and three new hotels in the works, American Canyon is planning for a vibrant future.

Read the City's press release >>>

Photo of a wetlands edge area near dusk with a dark blue and purple sky. The wetlands have both green and dry grasses and water has small waves.

Wetlands Edge Park Update

Exciting progress continues at the Wetlands Edge Enhancement Project! Final cleanup and new shrub planting are underway, while installation of a new shade structure, bike racks, and benches are also taking place. Expect one-way traffic control, temporary street parking restrictions, and a sidewalk closure near Wetlands Edge Park during work hours. Pedestrians will be directed to the nearest crosswalks. This project, supported by a $250,000 grant from California State Parks, is transforming Wetlands Edge into a vibrant space for outdoor learning, recreation, and environmental stewardship.

Read the City's most recent update >>>

Get Connected to City Updates

Graphic image of wetland landscape at sunset. A white block with a wave edge overlays the photo. Large text reads 'City Manager's Update'.

City Manager, Jason Holley, shares important updates at least twice a month including City Council updates, community events and more.

Police Chief Greenberg provides important safety tips through the monthly Neighborhood Watch Newsletter, along with updates on recent happenings.

Group photo of many firefighters together dressed in navy blue uniforms smiling and posing together. Above the photo the title reads 'American Canyon Fire Protection District News Ladder'.

Chief Belyea shares monthly stats about calls received by American Canyon Fire Protection District, as well as fire safety tips, and more.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

Graphic image that has red and white stripes in the background. On top of that a large circle with a blue background and white stars representing the American Flag. Large letters read '4th of July Celebration City of American Canyon.' Smaller letters list 'parade festival fireworks'.

4th of July Celebration

(American Canyon)

Join the City of American Canyon's annual 4th of July Celebration starting with a parade at 3pm from Elliott Drive to Amarillo Drive. A community festival follows at 4pm featuring live music, free activities, and food from local vendors. The evening culminates with fireworks at dusk!

Event details >>>

Graphic background is of the American Flag. A light yellow square is overlayed on top with large text that reads '4th of July Independence Day Celebration Oxbow Commons.'

4th of July Celebration

(Napa)

Join the City of Napa's annual 4th of July celebration. Festivities start at 9:30am with the Parade organized by Napa Sunrise Rotary. Starting at 3pm at the Oxbow Commons, enjoy a free kid's zone, live entertainment, free bike valet, and food and drink available for purchase. A special drone show will start at 9:30pm.

Event details >>>

Graphic has large teal text that reads 'Meet Me in the Street.' Background graphic is of a straight road narrowing from the bottom to the top of the image.

Meet Me in the Street 7/9

Join us for the second Meet Me in the Street this year on 7/9 from 5-8pm. District 5 is proud to sponsor this amazing community event again this year, so be sure to stop by the County booth to say hello. Enjoy performances, local vendors, food truck rally, and more!

Event details >>>

Picture of the front entrance of the American Canyon Library at 300 Crawford Way in American Canyon. The single story building has and orange clay tile roof and brick walls painted white. A large archway leads to the black entrance doors.

American Canyon Library Events All Month Long

Check out the many activities and events happening at the American Canyon Library this month. Activities for kids include storytime, reading to Barney (a certified listening dog), craft times and more. Adults can join the book club, and families can enjoy the summer blockbusters fil series feature classics like Jurassic Park and Back to the Future.

See July's events >>>

National Night Out (American Canyon) 8/5

Save the date for National Night Out in American Canyon! American Canyon residents sign up to host block parties throughout the city while law enforcement and safety officers make their way through each neighborhood to connect and engage with the community. If interested in hosting a block party, be sure to sign up by 7/28!

Event details >>>

Graphic has dark blue background with red and blue sparkles. American flag themed bunting is across the top. Large letters read 'Join local law enforcement for National Night Out.' On a red ribbon at the bottom reads 'August 5th 2025' and below that in red letters '4 to 7 pm at Napa Valley College.'

National Night Out (Napa) 8/5

Join local law enforcement at National Night Out in Napa at the Napa Valley College on 8/5 from 4-7pm! Enjoy activities, games, food, and opportunities to meet and connect with local law enforcement including the Napa Sheriff's Office, California Highway Patrol, District Attorney's Office, Napa Police, Community College Police, and the Napa State Hospital Police.

Event details >>>

GET INVOLVED

Attend the Board of Supervisors Meetings

Attend and participate in-person or virtually to stay current on County projects and efforts! This month's meetings are July 22 and July 29 at 9 am in the Board of Supervisors Chambers on the third floor of the County Administration Building - 1195 Third Street, Suite 305, Napa.

See current agendas, minutes and meeting details >>>

Image of the official Napa County Seal. Center image has grapes in front of a background of rolling hills covered with vineyards. Outer edge is black with gold and white wrings and large white text that reads Napa County California.

Want to make a difference in the community? Join a Napa County board, committee or commission

Joining a committee, commission, council, or board is a way for you to use your experience and expertise to help strengthen our community. Vacancies are currently available on the Napa County Airport Land Use Commission, Behavioral Health Board, Child Care and Development Planning Council, Commission on Aging, and more.

See the list of vacancies and apply >>>

Image of a gavel and round black. Large text reads 'Boards Committees and Commissions' and the Napa County Seal is in the bottom right corner.

American Canyon Community Members! Share your feedback to help shape the City's Parks Master Plan Update

The City of American Canyon’s Park and Recreation Department serves the community by providing parks and facilities as well as offering a variety of recreational programming. To ensure these public spaces and programs meet the needs and desires of the community, and that the prioritization of future amenities reflect the values and priorities of its residents, the City is undergoing a Parks Master Plan Update.

Share your feedback>>>

COMMUNITY SNAPSHOTS

Photo of two adults standing with their backs to the camera, one male and one female. The male has a baseball cap on and the back of his jacket reads 'CALFIRE'. The back of the womans jacket reads 'Napa County Fire Rescue District 5 Supervisor'.A couple other adults in firefighting gear are in the foreground. They are all standing next to a fire engine on the right. To the left is burnt ground and fire and smoke in the foreground on the left.

In June I was able to see a prescribed burn in person on Wild Horse Valley Road. Fire Chief Greenberg toured my District Aide Melissa and I around, reminding us of the strong benefits of prescribed burns. They help reduce fuels, create defensible space, help wildlife and native trees thrive, and lessen the burden on groundwater supply.

Photo of two people, one teenage boy and an adult female standing next to each other smiling and looking at the camera. Behind them is a parked white car with rainbow decorations on it. An inflated unicorn pool toy is on top of the car and rainbow streamers are hanging out the windows.

My son and I decorated a car and participated in the Napa Pride 2025 Car Parade on June 14. The festivities all month long were a celebration and reminder that we all belong in this community.

Photo of two women standing in front of a large modern looking colorful painting. Both women are wearing glasses and wearing similar outfits with hot pink blazers and black underneath. They are smiling and posing for the photo together.

Supervisor Manfree and I walking in with the same vibe last Wednesday when we went to San Francisco to attend Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) meetings in our capacities as commissioners. At those meetings we adopted the new fiscal year budgets for MTC and all of its subsidiaries such as BATA, BAIFA, and others.