District 1: Supervisor Larry Micari

This time of year means dry grass and fire danger. Property owners are responsible for maintaining their property free of tall dry weeds and seasonal grass. One time maintenance is not enough, please check and clear your property regularly to reduce fire risk and keep our first responders and communities safe. Find all the requirements at the Tulare County Ordinance and follow these tips now:

• All disking or mowing should be completed before 10:00 a.m.
• Maintain all weeds and grass at a height of three inches
• All rubbish shall be removed from property
• All disking operations shall comply with San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District Rule 8051

Tulare County Fire is responsible for the Hazard Abatement Program and the full requirements can be found on their website. If you see a property with fire hazards please fill out the Hazard Abatement Complaint Form to help keep everyone safe.

District 2: Supervisor Pete Vander Poel

Tulare County celebrated our seniors on May 9 with the annual Senior Day in the Park at Mooney Grove. The event was hosted by CSET, Kings/Tulare Area Agency on Aging, and Tulare County HHSA. This year was a Hawaiian theme, and everyone showed up ready to hula!

The day featured a car show, entertainment by Elvis (well, an impersonator), food, dancing, resource booths, contests, and great camaraderie.

Every year this event reminds me of the importance of the work of the County and our partners. Seniors came on their own, were brought by loved ones, or by senior homes to spend an active day out in nature. Cakes were donated for the cake walk, volunteers made games and activities possible, exhibitors shared resources, and everyone had a great time.

Thank you to CSET, KTAAA, Tulare County HHSA, and every volunteer for making this event possible!

District 3: Supervisor Amy Shuklian

On May 27 the Board of Supervisors presented a proclamation and planted a flag in recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness which is observed every June. Last year in Tulare County, Adult Protective Services received 1,962 calls regarding potential elder abuse. Elder abuse doesn’t always leave physical marks. It can be emotional manipulation, financial scams, neglect by caregivers, or even social isolation. These actions—or lack of action—can take a severe toll on an elder’s health, self-esteem, and quality of life.

Elder abuse is more common than most people realize. It is estimated that 1 in 6 people over the age of 60 have experienced some form of abuse. However, only a fraction of these cases are reported—often due to fear, shame, or dependence on the abuser.

You don’t need to be a professional to make a difference. Here are a few ways you can support elder abuse prevention:

• Check in regularly with older family members, neighbors, or community members.
• Listen without judgment if someone shares concerns or experiences.
• Educate yourself about the signs of abuse and how to report it in your area.
• Support caregivers, who may be overwhelmed and need assistance or resources.
• Speak out when you see mistreatment or unsafe conditions.

If you or someone you know may be a victim of elder abuse, you can call Tulare County Adult Protective Services at (877) 657-3092.

District 4: Supervisor Eddie Valero

As we step into the final weeks of spring, it’s a season of celebration, reflection, and preparation across Tulare County.

First, congratulations to all our high school and college graduates! Whether you're walking the stage or cheering from the crowd, this is a milestone moment. To all the proud parents, grandparents, and families, thank you for supporting our future leaders through every step of their journey. You inspire us all.

This month has also been filled with vibrant community events! From the energy and culture at our Cinco de Mayo parade and festival to the rich traditions celebrated at the Woodlake Rodeo, Tulare County continues to shine through its people and heritage.

May is also Mental Health Awareness Month —a powerful reminder to check in with ourselves and one another. I had the pleasure of joining Tulare County HHSA, alongside our Board of Supervisors and County Administrative Office teams, for a night of Rawhide Baseball.

As we look ahead to summer, let’s be mindful of the heat. Hydrate, check in on loved ones, especially our seniors, and stay informed through local weather alerts. Tulare County is preparing, and we encourage you to do the same.

District 5: Supervisor Dennis Townsend

One frustration with government is the pace with which things are accomplished. At the Federal and State levels many eyes must review legislation before it is enacted as law. At the local level it is a faster process but may still require patience to endure. There are issues I attempted to move forward during my first term that are yet to be fully realized.

There is, however, measured progress on many of them. Our efforts to complete the last stretches of SR 99 are coming to fruition. Congressman Valadao is carrying a bill that would provide road funding for counties with ag industries which have multiple miles of “farm to market” roads. This could truly boost our road maintenance funding.

After many years of multiple meetings and strategies and planning efforts, we may be on the verge of reinstating “active management” practices within our Federal forests and Monuments soon.

There are other examples but suffice it to say it is heartening to see progress. It is particularly encouraging to understand that we, as your representatives, are seeing your interests advanced at the Federal, State, and local levels due to our combined and persistent voices. We are, in fact, seeing progress!