District 1: Supervisor Larry Micari

The State of California is facing an $18 billion deficit in the upcoming fiscal year. State constitutional spending requirements under Propositions 98 and 2 are offsetting revenue gains from income tax collections. Costs in other programs are up $6 billion, and spending is projected to outstrip revenue by $35 billion in 2027-28.

The non-partisan Legislative Analyst’s Office (LAO) notes that these projections do not account for a recession. Overall, the State of California’s budget is less prepared for a downturn as we enter 2026.

At the local level, this means fewer available funds for programs and services for our residents. While the State budget situation is out of our direct control, County staff can control how we serve the public. We will continue to focus on improving customer service and being responsible stewards of your tax dollars. The Board of Supervisors will continue to advocate for smarter spending decisions in Sacramento. And if you see an issue that needs to be addressed or have feedback to help our County run better, please let us know at https://tularecounty.ca.gov/county-main/contact-us. 

District 2: Supervisor Pete Vander Poel

The holiday season is a time when we’re reminded of the importance of looking out for one another. Here in District 2, I’m proud of the many nonprofits, faith organizations, and volunteers who step up year-round to support neighbors facing food insecurity, housing challenges, and unexpected hardships.

Organizations like Lighthouse Rescue Mission provide critical outreach and support to families in need, while CarePortal connects local churches and community members directly with families who need immediate help. Residents can also find resources or ways to give back through United Way of Tulare County and the 211 helpline.

As we celebrate this season, I encourage residents to consider volunteering, donating, or simply sharing information. Even small acts of kindness can make a meaningful difference in someone’s life.

District 3: Supervisor Amy Shuklian

The end of a year often means we start thinking about New Year’s resolutions. And they are often an item that we do or don’t, we succeed or fail, we gain a new habit or try a fad in January. I don’t like New Year’s resolutions.

Instead, I like to focus on setting myself up for success. How can I do just a little better each day. And if I miss a day, it’s not a failure, it’s a chance to try again. Each day of a new year is a chance to serve my community better, have a meaningful conversation that improves policy, helps make a day brighter, or just makes me smile.

Everyone’s goals are different. Maybe yours are to read more, learn something new, visit the natural wonders in our own backyard, or reconnect with your favorite people. Whatever your goal is, I hope you work on setting yourself up for success in 2026 and enjoy a meaningful new year!

District 4: Supervisor Eddie Valero

As we step into a new year, I invite each of us to pause and look ahead through a new lens. A new year offers a fresh start, a chance to reset, refocus, and recommit to the things that matter most in our lives and in our communities.

For some, this season may bring the opportunity to discover a new hobby, set a meaningful goal, or make a commitment that challenges you to grow. Whatever that may be, I encourage you to stay the course, even when it gets tough. Progress is rarely instant, but perseverance carries us to the finish line.

As your County Supervisor, my resolution is clear: to continue investing in the communities of District Four and Tulare County, to uplift the successes we have achieved together, and to push forward on the important projects that are still working their way toward completion. From infrastructure and public safety to community spaces and essential services, the work continues and it is work worth seeing through.

I also encourage you to become more civically engaged in the year ahead. Attend a meeting, ask questions, support local efforts, volunteer, or simply stay informed. When residents are involved, our county is stronger, more responsive, and better equipped to meet the needs of all who call it home.

District 5: Supervisor Dennis Townsend

It is amazing that we are already wrapping up 2025. I notice at the end of each consecutive year how quickly the next year’s calendar fills up. 2026 is filling up quicker than ever. The upside to this full calendar, along with the benefits of advanced planning, is that it becomes a graphic representation of the value of our time. I know it sounds cliché to note how precious time is. When I reflect on the past year, however, and when I see the schedule shaping up for the coming year, I am thankful for the opportunity of serving in this position. It is an honor to meet so many people from around the County and to be their representative voice with agencies, associations and elected officials in the region, the State, and the Nation. I can’t think of a better use of the time we have than to amplify the voice of each of my friends and neighbors across the County. Thank you all for the honor and the blessing of serving in this capacity and thank God for the ability to live and work in such a great County and Nation. Merry Christmas!