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Dear Napa County Friends and Neighbors,
The past month, I had the privilege of traveling to Washington, D.C. to advocate on behalf of the Bay Area with the goal of protecting transit investment and the values we hold dear. Alongside local leaders from across the region, I met with federal officials to discuss critical transportation issues impacting our community. I emphasized the importance of preserving Surface Transportation Block Grant dollars for our region, funding that is essential for infrastructure projects such as the rehabilitation of Green Island Road and the completion of the Napa Valley Vine Trail. Federal transportation dollars are vital to improving mobility, safety, and connectivity in Napa County.
Regionalism is an important part of my representation of you and our County. Whether it is serving on the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) to advocate for transportation dollars, the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) to fight for investments into housing and planning, or with The California State Association of Counties (CSAC) to collaborate with Supervisors from around the state on issues from immigration to local funding formulas - we will continue to elevate the needs of Napa County.
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This past weekend, it was an honor to host the first Bay Area Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials (BALEO) Leadership Summit in Napa County. We gathered to discuss policy, diplomacy, education, and immigration. It was inspiring to be together, building a coalition to lift each other up and collaborate to best represent our communities.
As always, I am incredibly grateful to represent you and bring your concerns directly to the decision-makers shaping our future. Below you'll find County updates, upcoming events, and ways to stay engaged.
Be well,
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P.S. Please feel free to reach out to me and/or my Board 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. If you were one of the thousands that enjoyed BottleRock or La Onda, it is important to acknowledge our first responders that work behind the scenes before, during, and after the shows to ensure we have a safe and memorable experience - first responders like Deputy Maravilla and K9 Nova. I had a chance to step away from the crowds, visit our Join Incident Command Cener and the Napa Sheriff Deputies to thank them for their presence. I'm pretty sure K9 Nova appreciated the pets and cuddles.
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Help Shape Napa County’s Future -
Take the Strategic Plan Survey
Napa County is developing a new five-year Strategic Plan—and we need to hear from you. This plan will help guide decisions on critical issues like wildfire preparedness, housing availability, road safety, public services, and the impacts of tourism. Whether you live in American Canyon, Calistoga, Napa, St. Helena, Yountville, or the unincorporated areas—your input matters.
This is your chance to help shape the policies and investments that impact your daily life—and the future of our entire community. The survey is open through June 15, 2025—and it only takes a few minutes. Help build a Napa County that works for all of us!
Take the survey now >>>
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Flights from Napa Airport to LA start in July
Beginning July 3, JSX will launch seasonal non-stop charter flights between Napa County Airport and both Burbank and Orange County, operating four days a week. The service, in partnership with Skyservice Napa, supports Napa County’s broader $130 million airport modernization plan, aimed at enhancing travel options, attracting tourism, and boosting economic development. With a focus on convenience and comfort, JSX offers a premium alternative that strengthens the airport’s role as a regional transportation hub.
Learn more >>>
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PG&E Financial Assistance Programs and Alerts about EPSS Outages
As temperatures begin to rise, I want to share two important reminders related to PG&E.
First, explore how to manage your energy costs with programs that help you pay past due bills, save money, and reduce future energy use. Find information on all programs here.
Second, for safety, PG&E is enabling Enhanced Power Safety Settings (EPSS) in High Fire Risk Areas. EPSS reduces wildfire risk by shutting off power within one-tenth of a second if an object strikes the line or fault occurs, followed by checks for damage before restoring power. While these safety settings help protect our communities from wildfires, you may lose power unexpectedly. To receive outage alerts and estimated restoration times, make sure your communication preferences are updated.
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Board of Supervisors Budget Hearing 6/16 and 6/17
The next step in the County’s budget process is the Budget Hearings on 6/16 at 6pm and 6/17 at 9am in the Board of Supervisors Chambers at 1195 Third Street, 3rd Floor, Napa, CA 94559. This is an opportunity for the public to comment on the proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year.
Details on how to watch and participate >>>
| | | This month, the Board is proclaiming June as: | | |
Launch of “Connections Napa County” Supports Older Adults and Individuals with Disabilities
The Board proclaimed May as Older Adults Month, reaffirming our commitment to supporting the county’s aging population and launching this year’s theme, “Flip the Script on Aging,” which celebrates the value and contributions of older adults. As part of this initiative, the County introduced Connections Napa County, a new digital resource hub developed in collaboration with local partners to help older adults, individuals with disabilities, and caregivers easily access essential services and support. This launch is a key milestone in the County’s Master Plan for Aging and reflects ongoing regional collaboration with Solano County to improve quality of life for aging residents.
Learn more >>>
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Groundwater Sustainability Plan Progress Update
The Board of Supervisors received the fourth annual update on the Napa Valley Subbasin Groundwater Sustainability Plan, highlighting continued progress toward the goal of groundwater sustainability by 2042. Despite a hot, dry summer that increased groundwater use, key milestones were achieved, including new monitoring sites, expanded data collection, and implementation of water conservation and pumping reduction plans. These efforts reflect Napa County’s ongoing commitment to protecting groundwater resources for the long term.
View the full report >>>
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2024 Napa County Agricultural Report
The Agricultural Commissioner’s Office released the 2024 Agricultural Crop Report and shared highlights at the May 20 Board Meeting. Congratulations to Jullian Pineda, whose cover art submission won first prize. The total agricultural production value is down 14% from the previous year, including a 14.4% drop in winegrape production values from 2023’s record-breaking figures. That said, 2024 is still marks the third highest total winegrape value on record. Learn more about other agricultural sectors, pest detections, and weights and measures in the 2024 Agricultural Report.
Read the full report >>>
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Napa County Airport Construction Update
Major improvements continue at the Napa County Airport, with significant progress across several key projects. At Atlantic Aviation’s Fixed-Base Operator (FBO), ramp paving and concrete work are well underway, with steel framing for the lobby started and hangar construction to follow in June. Skyservice’s FBO is advancing with interior systems, stair installation, and roof prep nearly complete, and second-floor framing beginning soon. Fuel farm upgrades are also nearing completion. Meanwhile, Taxiway K reconstruction continues with subgrade stabilization and drainage improvements, paving scheduled for June.
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Federal Budget Reconciliation Process Update
On May 22, the U.S. House passed the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" (H.R. 1), a comprehensive budget reconciliation package covering healthcare, tax policy, social programs, and more. The bill includes several provisions that affect counties nationwide, with both opportunities and challenges ahead.
What’s in the bill for counties?
- Positive impacts: Preservation of municipal bond tax exemptions, $1.6 billion for local and state preparations for upcoming major events like the 2026 World Cup and 2028 Olympics, reauthorization of Secure Rural Schools funding through 2027, and expanded conservation program funding. Counties would also receive a share of renewable energy revenues from wind and solar projects on federal lands.
- Challenges: Reduced Medicaid funding for states covering undocumented immigrants, a freeze on counties’ ability to regulate AI technologies locally for 10 years, new Medicaid work requirements and cost-sharing that may increase administrative burdens and limit access to care, and higher county administrative costs for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
- Other provisions: The bill increases the cap on the State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction, extends certain tax credits for low-income housing, and includes funding for air traffic control upgrades at county airports.
The bill now moves to the U.S. Senate, where changes are expected before final passage.
Read the National Association of Counties' (NACo) key takeaways >>>
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State Budget Update
Governor Newsom’s 2025-26 budget revision outlines a $12 billion deficit for the state. The proposal includes a mix of budget reductions, borrowing from special funds, and shifting funds between accounts to address the shortfall. The revision also highlights challenges related to global trade policy, wildfire recovery, and other economic factors impacting state revenues.
Notably, the budget does not include critical funding for the Homeless Housing, Assistance, and Prevention (HHAP) Grant program or resources for counties to implement Proposition 36, which will affect local services. The budget now moves to the Legislature for further discussion, with a final version due by June 15.
Read the Budget Brief from California Association of Counties (CSAC) >>>
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Meet Me in the Street Starts June 11
The return of American Canyon’s largest community event is quickly approaching on June 11 from 5-8pm! I am proud to be one of this year’s sponsors and look forward to seeing you all there. If you can’t make it to this one, be sure to come on July 9 or August 13!
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American Canyon Adopts Its 2040 General Plan Update
On May 20, the American Canyon City Council adopted the City’s 2040 General Plan Update, marking the culmination of five years of community input, technical analysis, and thoughtful planning. The plan sets a long-term vision for growth, land use, housing, mobility, and environmental justice, with continued public involvement in its implementation.
Learn more >>>
| | Get Connected to City Updates | | City Manager, Jason Holley, shares important updates at least twice a month including City Council updates, community events and more. | | Every month, Chief Greenberg provides important safety tips through the Neighborhood Watch Newsletter, along with updates on recent happenings. | | Chief Belyea shares monthly stats about calls received by American Canyon Fire Protection District, as well as fire safety tips, and more. | |
Napa Pride 2025 Events All Month Long
Napa Pride, a coalition of volunteers, local businesses, and nonprofits, have organized a month full of events to celebrate and raise awareness of the LGBTQ+ community in Napa Valley.
Pride Month events >>>
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Meet Me in the Street 6/11
Bring the family to enjoy delicious eats from the food truck rally, unique finds at the shopping extravaganza, nonprofit informational tables, a custom/classic car show, and great tunes with live music.
Event details >>>
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Pride Day of Solidarity 6/14
Celebrate Pride all day long starting off at the Napa Farmers Market, then head to Pride Pours and curbside celebrations throughout downtown. Watch the Car Parade at 7pm then celebrate into the evening at participating bars and restaurants.
Event details >>>
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American Canyon's Juneteenth Celebration 6/15
Join American Canyon's 4th annual Juneteenth celebration, hosted by the City and the American Canyon Arts Foundation on 6/15 from 1-6pm. Enjoy speakers, live entertainment, food trucks, vendors and a kid zone.
Event details >>>
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Rock the Ride 6/28
Register for this annual benefit bike ride and walk that raises funds for national and local nonprofit organizations working to end gun violence. With a walk or ride at varying distances, this event welcomes all participants to bring the community together.
Learn more & register >>>
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American Canyon 4th of July Celebration 7/4
Celebrate Independence Day with American canyon's parade, festival and fireworks! Parade starts at 3pm traveling from Elliott Drive to Amarillo Drive. The festival will include live music, and the fireworks begin at dusk.
Event details >>>
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This Month's Board of Supervisors Meetings
Attend and participate in-person or virtually to stay current on County projects and efforts! This month's regular meetings are June 3 and June 24 at 9 am in the Board of Supervisors Chambers on the third floor of the County Administration Building - 1195 Third Street, Suite 305, Napa, CA 94559. This month we also have budget hearings on June 16 at 6pm and June 17 at 9am in the same location.
See current agendas, minutes and meeting details >>>
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Join a 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 Behavioral Health Board, Child Care and Development Planning Council, Housing Commission, and more.
See vacancies and apply >>>
| | | Congratulations to Aidan Agtarap (ACMS) for winning first place in the District 5 Spring Student Art Contest hosted in partnership with the American Canyon Arts Foundation. Come to the District 5 Office to see the artwork and more submissions in person. | | It was an honor to advocate for the Bay Area at the Capitol in Washington D.C. with my Association of Bay Area Governments/Metropolitan Transportation Commission (ABAG/MTC) colleagues and staff. | | On May 30 we celebrated and thanked our firefighters by hosting the annual firefighter appreciation dinner in partnership with the Napa Valley Vintners, Constellation Brands, Gallo Family, Napa Valey Grapegrowers and the Rutherford Firefighters. | | | | |
