The Tacos San Marcos team celebrates their Grand Opening in Traver, CA, accompanied by County of Tulare Board Supervisor for District 4, Eddie Valero (left).

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Tourists visit Traver year-round, often stopping at the Bravo Farms ag tourism destination off of State Route 99.

As we come to the end of another fiscal year, July has marked a pivotal moment for development efforts here at the Tulare County Resource Management Agency. From advancing community plans to moving forward with critical environmental review work, our Planning teams, including our environmental, counter services, special projects, and our processing divisions, have helped lay the groundwork for future development across Tulare County. And we did it all while finalizing and closing the loop on our annual balanced budgeting efforts, producing 39 land use approvals and 341 building permits in the month of July alone.  

Goshen Community Plan Map

Two key projects reflect this momentum: the initiation of the Goshen Community Plan Update, which is a year-long project that outlines a bold vision for long-term, mixed-use growth, that rounds out development along Road 64 and Highway 198, developing west and south of the community; and the environmental review for the Traver Ranch project, which proposes over 1,300 new single family and multi-family units, retail and general commercial, job-generating industrial development and has plans to add school facilities and improve the community’s drainage, sewer, and roadways. These types of developments support our region’s strategy for balanced growth and improved quality of life along the State Route 99 corridor.

Traver Ranch Subdivision Map

Behind the scenes, the Planning and Building Divisions have also delivered measurable results. As we wrapped up Fiscal Year 2024–25, staff completed more than 539 planning land use projects (the 3^rd most in our agency’s history), which is 94% of what was received (with over 105 planning permits approved in the month of March alone) and issued 3,932 building permits (one less than the previous year). Building projects can be complex, with the approval of development across hundreds of thousands of square feet and a total valuation of $487 million in 2024/25. This was also achieved while cutting the average project approval times nearly in half over the past two years.

Our Public Works team has also continued essential development projects. Whether that’s resurfacing roads, filling potholes, or outright building out a new Road 64 in Goshen, completing Ivanhoe’s sidewalk project, and the County’s first roundabout, plus restoring access to key recreation corridors, the Public Works Branch produces significant results that are often years in the making.

So, thank you to all our staff, our Board and administration, our community partners, and all the Tulare County residents for helping advance the work that keeps Tulare County growing strong. For you, we are continuing to upgrade our services, whether through technology, strategizing, or training, which reflect the cross-divisional collaboration and coordination that RMA shares with its sister agencies. This is all achieved through the public investment our State and County have privileged the RMA with, which defines our role in strengthening Tulare County’s communities, its infrastructure, and its economy.

Best Regards,

Aaron R. Bock, MCRP, JD, LEED AP

RMA Assistant Director of Economic Development & Planning

With planning activity underway in both Traver and Goshen, the County is setting the stage for long-term growth in two key communities along the State Route 99 corridor.

In Traver, a proposed development is undergoing full environmental review.

Meanwhile in Goshen, a General Plan update is in motion that could expand the Urban Development Boundary by over 700 acres.

Both efforts aim to support future housing, commerce, and infrastructure investments that strengthen the regional economy and reflect each community’s unique potential.

Artistic rendering of what the proposed Traver Ranch development may look like decades into the future.

Traver Ranch

Goshen Community Plan

Changes are coming to the County of Tulare’s website presence. The County is preparing to launch an all-new website this summer, offering residents, businesses, and visitors an upgraded digital experience.



The redesigned site will feature a fresh, modern look, updated information, and improved navigation, making it easier than ever to access County services, find important resources, and stay informed. 

Our Tulare County Resource Management Page (RMA) will be easier than ever to access and will keep its current web address (tularecounty.ca.gov/RMA). Whether you’re looking to pay a bill, process a building permit, explore community programs, or contact a department, everything will be just a few clicks away.

Stay tuned for more details as we approach the official launch date. The County of Tulare is proud to take this step forward in providing a more user-friendly and connected experience for all.

Questions? Please contact economicdevelopment@tularecounty.ca.gov

The County of Tulare's agencies and organizations will soon have a whole new website look with added functionality to serve our resident’s needs.

PUBLIC WORKS

ROADS CREW, ENGINEERING, & LAND SURVEYING TEAMS

Celebrating RMA's Newest Flaggers

New flaggers have completed training and will take on new duties within the RMA Road Crew team.

Flaggers play a key role in directing traffic safely around construction zones, protecting both workers and drivers during road improvement projects.

Caldwell Project Makes Strides

The Caldwell project looms large, as improvements have been designed and infrastructure is being moved.  Combining the efforts by the City of Visalia, and RMA Planning and Public Works, the team has been successful in acquiring the necessary right-of-way to make the Caldwell Project from Visalia to Farmersville a reality.

2024 Road Repair and Accountability Act (RRAA)

Project 1 & Project 2

Two major roadway improvement projects, approved in July 2023 and July 2024, have been completed. These projects have brought targeted repairs and upgrades to communities across Tulare, Visalia, Pixley, Woodlake, Lindsay, Dinuba, and more.

The projects included pavement resurfacing, bridge and culvert repairs, ADA curb ramp installations, and new striping. They were all completed on time and under budget.

Both projects were fully funded through County Road Funds, the State Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation Account (RMRA), Measure R, and other state and federal transportation programs. These investments support the County’s Strategic Business Plan – Safety and Security Initiative by improving infrastructure, enhancing roadway safety, and strengthening regional connectivity.

Road improvements now visible at Road 144 between Visalia and Ivanhoe. The project included pavement resurfacing and new striping.

The RMA maintains approximately 3,000 miles of roadway, working year-round to keep drivers safe - whether it’s repairing potholes, maintaining road signs, or refreshing pavement striping. But roadway safety is a shared effort, and July brings extra focus to this mission.



In July, agencies across California recognized road safety awareness, including through the California Highway Patrol’s Safe Driver Campaign and Rural Road Safety Awareness Week (RRSAW), which takes place during the third week of the month. RRSAW is led by the National Center for Rural Road Safety and highlights the unique challenges of driving in rural communities.

Tacos San Marcos Grand Opening

The aroma of sizzling meats and the sound of celebration filled the air as Tacos San Marcos officially opened the doors to its first brick-and-mortar restaurant in Traver on July 11. 

What began as a local favorite food truck has now become a restaurant serving delicious Mexican fare in the heart of Tulare County. The family-owned business now features six food trucks across Tulare and Kings counties and two restaurant locations (one in Traver and another in Visalia).

The grand opening drew a crowd of community members, food lovers, and local leaders. Tulare County Supervisor for District 4 Eddie Valero was in attendance, along with representatives from the Tulare Kings Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, the Tulare Chamber of Commerce, and other key stakeholders who came to show their support for the growing small business.

Guests enjoyed free agua frescas, vibrant music, and a ribbon-cutting ceremony that marked a significant milestone for the Tacos San Marcos team. The atmosphere was filled with energy, gratitude, and excitement for what was to come.

Tulare County Taco Trail Challenge Coming to An End

Deadline to Check In & Win Prizes: Thursday, July 31, 2025 at 11:59 p.m.

BUILDING & PERMIT CENTER

The Project Review Committee (PRC) is a project review service offered by the Tulare County Resource Management Agency (RMA) for the purpose of evaluating residential and commercial development proposals to ensure they comply with zoning laws, community plans, and regulatory standards.

Navigating the planning review process is easier than you think. With clear steps to follow and guidance from our experts, submitting an application for a new development or proposing changes to an existing project is a smooth process.

Recently, the RMA created a one-sheet full of valuable PRC information for residents.

Questions? Please contact economicdevelopment@tularecounty.ca.gov.

The County of Tulare's Fiscal Year 2024/25 concluded on June 30, 2025.

While the County’s fiscal year officially began on July 1, 2025, the new budget will not be fully adopted until this fall. In the meantime, our RMA Fiscal Services team has been working behind the scenes to close out the previous year and ensure a smooth transition into the new one.

Their work goes beyond crunching numbers; they’re actively monitoring and managing every dollar spent across RMA programs.



From infrastructure investments to long-term land use planning, the Fiscal Services team plays a vital role in aligning RMA operations with County priorities, ensuring resources are used efficiently and transparently.

Cheryl Lopez, RMA Account Clerk

Cheryl Lopez joined the RMA in March, and while she still considers herself a newbie, she’s already learning a great deal. Prior to joining the Fiscal team as an Account Clerk, Cheryl spent several years as a retail manager before stepping away to focus on raising her children. During that time, she became a licensed childcare provider and operated a family daycare for six years. She found it incredibly rewarding to create a safe and nurturing environment for young children, helping them learn, grow, and interact with others.

At RMA, Cheryl currently processes utility and supplies invoices. She is also training in accounts receivable, learning how to prepare deposits and update customer utility accounts and loan repayments. Cheryl is excited to continue growing in her role and says she appreciates how welcoming and helpful everyone at RMA has been.

Keyona Hanzra joined the RMA in July as an Account Clerk. Before coming to RMA, she worked alongside her husband at their family-owned business, New York Pizza and Grill in Dinuba. There, she took on a wide range of responsibilities, from customer service and maintenance work to managing back-office operations such as budgeting, reconciling, purchasing, and sales spreadsheets. She even oversaw some of the small business's IT processes.

Echoing Cheryl, Keyona says she is excited to be part of such a welcoming and supportive RMA division and is grateful to join a team that makes her feel right at home.

Keyona Hanzra, RMA Account Clerk

RMA Career Opportunities: The RMA lists available career opportunities through the County of Tulare's Human Resources & Development Department.

Sierra Forest Products Hosts Tulare County Forest Alliance for Facility Tour in Terra Bella

Sierra Forest Products welcomed a group of forestry professionals and agency representatives to its Terra Bella sawmill for a guided tour that showcased the facility’s operations and contributions to the region’s forest products industry.

Hosted by the Tulare County Forest Alliance, the tour brought together 32 participants, including the County of Tulare’s Supervisor for District 5, Dennis Townsend, staff from the RMA, along with CAL FIRE, the U.S. Forest Service, American Forests, Sequoia Riverlands Trust, Yosemite Sequoia RC&D Council, and Save the Redwoods League. Many attendees are also active participants of the Alliance, a collaborative network dedicated to advancing forest health efforts across the region.

For more information about the Tulare County Forest Alliance (formerly the Tulare County Forest Health Task Force), please contact Doreen Alvez, Grants Specialist/Tulare County Forest Health Coordinator, at Foresthealth@tularecounty.ca.gov or (559) 624-7146. For information about Sierra Forest Products, please visit www.sierraforest.net.

County of Tulare Supervisor for District 5 Dennis Townsend (center) joined the tour for Sierra Forest Products.

A view of production at the sawmill.

A tour guide at Sierra Forest Products speaks to the group of visitors.

Latest RMA Data Packet Now Available

RMA Data is now available in a single data packet including information regarding:

• Project Status Updates
• Public Works Field Operations
• Monthly Planning Report
• Building and Housing Report

Follow Us On Social Media

Several RMA initiatives also have an online presence. Search for the following accounts to keep up to date with the latest at our agency.

• Tulare County RMA: Facebook • Instagram
• Economic Development Office (Grow Tulare County): Facebook • Instagram • LinkedIn
• Tourism News: (Discover Tulare County): Facebook • Instagram

Have a Story in Mind?

Send over your story idea and it may just make it into a future edition of this publication! To learn more, contact RMA Media Specialist Lacey Patrick by email (lpatrick@tularecounty.ca.gov).

RMA Contact Information and Quick Links

Government Plaza (RMA Headquarters)

5961 S. Mooney Boulevard, Visalia, CA 93277

Phone: (559) 624-7000 • FAX: (559) 615-3002

Monday - Thursday 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Fridays 8:00 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Email: rma@tularecounty.ca.gov

Building Permit Center Hours:

Monday - Friday 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 

Porterville Permit Center

 346 N. Porter Road, Porterville, CA

Phone: 559-782-6800 • 559-782-6801

Building Zone Information

Phone: (559) 624-7105

E-mail: Zone-Information@tularecounty.ca.gov

Public Information Requests

Email: rma@tularecounty.ca.gov