On Saturday, April 4, from 9a.m.-noon, Two Rivers Park was filled with families and kids for the Fillmore Police Departments an “Easter Eggstravanganza Event.” The day was for the community members to have fun and have open conversations with our local law enforcement. The children played some fun games and interacted with first responders: the Mounted Unit, S.W.A.T, Bomb Squad, Probation, K9’s, Motor Unit, and Fillmore Fire Department. They checked out the equipment, Sheriff Command Post, Can-am and lots more. See more photos online at www.FillmoreGazette.com. Photo credit Angel Esquivel.
Enlarge Photo

Enlarge Photo

Enlarge Photo

Enlarge Photo

Enlarge Photo

Enlarge Photo

Enlarge Photo

Enlarge Photo

Enlarge Photo

Enlarge Photo

Enlarge Photo

Enlarge Photo

Enlarge Photo

Fillmore Police Station coordinated with the K-9 and Mounted Unit of the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office to host an Easter Eggstravaganza for the community members of Fillmore. It was a beautiful day that resulted in lots of fun and laughs for all who attended. A community Easter egg-hunt and a variety of games were planned for everyone who wished to participate; patrol deputies and cadets joined in all the fun as well! A big thank you to each and every one of the community members who attended and showed support. VCSD is looking forward to hosting more events that focus on bringing members of law enforcement and members of the community together. Hope all had a happy and safe Easter! Photo credit Angel Esquivel.

Pictured is Fillmore Rotary President Scott Beylik and speaker Eric Swenson. Photo credit Martha Richardson.
Enlarge Photo

At last week’s Fillmore Rotary Club meeting Rotarian Renee Swenson introduced her husband as the guest speaker. Eric Swenson is very passionate about the City of Fillmore and wants to bring life to the downtown.
His idea is to put an interesting display in the store windows, that are closed, this way people will stop and look instead of just moving by. These may change from time to time and people will want to see how they look. If the building is for sale they will stop and notice it and might want to buy it. Every window tells a story. He will try to get a grant to pay for decorations.

April 3, 2026 - (Ventura County) -- Even though the June 2nd Gubernatorial Primary election is two months away, active registered voters in Ventura County can expect to begin receiving important election-related mail from the County Elections office in the next few weeks.
It starts with the 60-day voter information postcard, which will arrive in early April, approximately 60 days before Election Day. The postcard provides information about receiving and returning your vote by mail ballot, and the vote center daily schedule for those who prefer to vote in person.
“An important message we’re emphasizing on the postcard for this election is to VOTE EARLY, regardless of how you vote,” said Ventura County Clerk-Recorder and Registrar of Voters Michelle Ascencion. “If you’re using your mail ballot, you want to make sure it gets returned in time to count – before 8:00 PM on Election Day – and it’s especially important to return it early if you’re sending it in the mail, so it gets postmarked by Election Day.”
“If you prefer to vote in person at a vote center, you can avoid the long lines on Election Day by taking advantage of less-crowded early voting opportunities – up to ten days before Election Day, which includes two weekends and the Memorial Day holiday on May 25th,” she said.
Two Voter Information Guides will arrive by the end of April. The County Voter Information Guide and the State Voter Information Guide can be useful tools to help voters find out more about the candidates in the upcoming election. The State guide has information on the statewide contests and each household receives one hard copy in the mail. The County guide has information about local contests and the state and federal offices that are elected by district locally, and each voter in a household will receive their own copy. Electronic versions are also available on the California Secretary of State’s website voterguide.sos.ca.gov and on the Ventura County Elections website, vote.venturacounty.gov.
With several mail pieces on the way, including the vote by mail ballot in early May, Registrar Ascencion reminds voters to send back any election mail addressed to a voter who is no longer at that address.
“USPS does not forward election mail,” Ascencion said. “If you receive anything that’s addressed to someone no longer residing at your address, just write ‘NOT AT THIS ADDRESS – RETURN TO SENDER’ on it and drop it back in the mail.”
The Ventura County Clerk-Recorder & Registrar of Voters is committed to Preserving History and Protecting Democracy for the people of Ventura County—past, present, and future. More information about the agency’s services is available 24/7 at clerkrecorder.venturacounty.gov.

(April 6, 2026) The LOSSAN Rail Corridor Agency, in partnership with the Ventura County Transportation Commission (VCTC) and the Santa Barbara County Association of Governments (SBCAG), today announced the launch of a new daily Pacific Surfliner roundtrip between Los Angeles and San Luis Obispo, expanding travel and commuter options for riders along California’s Central Coast.
The service expansion, which begins May 4, 2026, increases Pacific Surfliner frequencies to six daily trips to Goleta and three daily trips to San Luis Obispo, improving weekday commuter flexibility and regional connectivity between Los Angeles, Ventura County, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo.
The additional roundtrip improves schedule availability during peak weekday rush hour periods while offering riders a comfortable alternative to driving.
“Expanding Pacific Surfliner service helps strengthen regional mobility and provides travelers with more convenient options along the Central Coast,” said Jason Jewell, Managing Director of the LOSSAN Rail Corridor Agency. “This new roundtrip improves connectivity across the corridor and offers riders a comfortable alternative to driving.”
For Ventura County residents and commuters, the expanded service provides additional travel flexibility between Ventura County and destinations throughout the corridor.
“This new roundtrip strengthens Ventura County’s connection to the broader Southern California rail network,” said Martin Erickson, Executive Director of the Ventura County Transportation Commission. “By providing more travel options during busy weekday travel periods, we’re making it easier for residents and workers to move throughout the region.”
Santa Barbara County leaders also highlighted how the expanded service demonstrates investment in regional transportation and delivers on the voter-approved Measure A, a half-cent sales tax for transportation in Santa Barbara County
“More rail service means more flexibility for how people move through our region,” said Marjie KIRN, SBCAG Executive Director. “With Measure A support, we’re delivering on what voters asked for—more options for commuting, school, and everyday travel.”
SBCAG is hosting an employers forum event on April 22, 2026 at the Hilton Garden Inn in Goleta and informing local employers how to promote jobs and commuting options in the area.
The Pacific Surfliner service operates along a 351-mile coastal corridor connecting San Diego County, Orange County, Los Angeles, Ventura County, Santa Barbara County, and San Luis Obispo County. The service offers amenities including comfortable seating, power outlets, and scenic coastal views. Perhaps the most appreciated amenity, free onboard Wi-Fi, gives riders the opportunity to work or study while en route to the office or class, maximizing travel time.
With the new roundtrip, travelers will benefit from expanded schedule options for a variety of trips, including weekday commuting, business travel, university travel, and leisure trips along California’s coast.
Riders can view updated schedules and plan their trips at http://www.pacificsurfliner.com/goCentralCoast
***
About the Amtrak® Pacific Surfliner®
The Pacific Surfliner travels along a 351-mile coastal rail route through San Diego, Orange, Los Angeles, Ventura, Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties, serving 29 stations. It is the second busiest state-supported intercity passenger rail route in the United States.To learn more and plan a trip, visit pacificsurfliner.com.
***
About the LOSSAN Rail Corridor Agency
The Los Angeles – San Diego – San Luis Obispo (LOSSAN) Rail Corridor Agency is a joint powers authority overseeing the management of the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner service. Comprised of rail owners, operators and planning agencies along the 351-mile LOSSAN rail corridor, the Agency strives to improve passenger rail ridership, revenue, on-time performance, operational flexibility and safety along its service area. The Orange County Transportation Authority provides all necessary administrative support for the LOSSAN Agency and its Board. For more information, visit the LOSSAN website.
***
About the Santa Barbara County Association of Governments (SBCAG)
The Santa Barbara County Association of Governments serves as the regional transportation planning agency for Santa Barbara County, coordinating transportation planning, funding, and programs that support mobility, economic vitality, and environmental sustainability.Learn more at sbcag.org
***
About the Ventura County Transportation Commission
The Ventura County Transportation Commission is the regional transportation planning agency committed to keeping Ventura County moving.Program information available at goventura.org

Saturday & Sunday, April 25 & 26, will be the 2026 Fillmore Flower Show at the Fillmore Active Adult Center. This year’s show will include a 50/50 raffle, so don’t miss out. Above is artwork that will be raffled off at the show. Photo credit Linda Nunes.
Enlarge Photo

The Fillmore Flower Show, coming up on April 25th & 26th, offers two more opportunities to engage in the fun, like the theme “A Blooming Good Time!” states.
We have a 50/50 drawing that does not need you to be present at the award ceremony on Sunday at 3pm. You purchase a ticket & your phone number & address are recorded. On Sunday, the winning ticket is drawn, and half the total amount is sent via check to the winner.
The second opportunity is a drawing for donated items from businesses and individuals,
such as Otto & Sons Nursery Roses, ranch eggs, gift cards from restaurants, or Redoute Rose prints beautifully framed. For this opportunity, you would need to be present or have a friend to represent you.
Hope you are ready to engage in “A Blooming Good Time!” Flower Show!

Pictured is Fillmore Rotary President Scott Beylik with speakers Matt O’Brien and Dan Harasty. Photo credit Martha Richardson.

The Fillmore Rotary speakers this week were Dan Harasty and Max O’Brien, they are both members of Search & Rescue. They talked about some of the rescue teams, Fillmore Mountain team, K9 team, Posse team, and Dive team. Depending on the emergency, there are teams to help. Dan and Max are both on the Dive team and mostly talked about that. The team has training on recovery, evidence collection, working in confined space and in the dark as well as very cold water. They also train on vehicle recovery in submerged water. They have ongoing training and must have certification. They also have interagency help depending on the situation. When asked why they do it, they said they want to bring families back together.

How many Edison trucks does it take to change a light bulb? One. Edison was in Fillmore on Tuesday, March 31st, performing maintenance on streetlights. This one was at the corner of Santa Fe Street and Surrey Way. Photo credit Gazette Staff.

The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office is advising the public of an increase in crime trend commonly referred to as “Bank Jugging” or “Bank Follow-Home” occurring throughout its jurisdictions during the first quarter of 2026.
“Bank Jugging” typically involves suspects targeting individuals who withdraw large sums of cash from banking institutions. In many cases, suspects observe customers either inside or outside the bank and identify potential victims based on behavior consistent with cash withdrawals, such as carrying bank envelopes. The suspects then follow the victim to a secondary location (such as a home, parking lot, or business), where they wait for the individual to leave their vehicle unattended. Once the opportunity presents itself, suspects forcibly enter the vehicle—often by breaking a window—and steal the cash left inside.
The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office urges community members to remain vigilant and take the following precautions when conducting financial transactions:
• Conceal cash immediately after completing a transaction by placing it in a purse, bag, or pocket to avoid drawing attention.
• Do not leave cash or valuables inside an unattended vehicle, even if the vehicle is locked.
• Maintain awareness of your surroundings when entering and exiting financial institutions.
• Be alert to individuals loitering in or around bank parking lots or appearing to monitor customers.
• If you suspect you are being followed, contact 911 immediately and follow the instructions of the dispatcher.
• Report any suspicious activity to local law enforcement without hesitation.
The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to working in partnership with the community to enhance public safety and prevent crime.
Join us in the fight on crime by following us on X @VENTURASHERIFF, Facebook & Instagram @ VCSHERIFF, and with Nixle by texting your zip code to 888777 to receive local law enforcement and public safety alerts and advisories.
Prepared by: Sgt. Richard LaSecla
News Release Date: 03/25/2026
Approved by: Captain Albert Ramirez
***
Nature of Incident: Community Awareness – Bank Jugging
Report Number: 26-35193, 26-31350, 26-29060, 26-22255, 26-117.33
Location: Ventura County
Date & Time: January 2026 through March 2026
Unit(s) Responsible: East County and Camarillo Investigations
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent ; City of Residence; Age
Multiple Unidentified Suspects, Unknown, Unk
***
Ventura County Crime Stoppers will pay up to $1,000 reward for information, which leads to the arrest and criminal complaint against the person(s) responsible for this crime. The caller may remain anonymous. The call is not recorded. Call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477).

Posted on January 21, 2026, courtesy https://www.fillmoreca.gov/m/newsflash/Home/Detail/259
What is Well No. 10 Project?
The Water Well No. 10 project replaces abandoned Well No. 5 that is located at Delores Day Park.
The project consists of three phases:
1. Exploratory drilling to determine viable water supply and quality.
2. Building around the wellhead, access driveway, generator and communication enclosure. Landscaping might be included in this phase.
3. Equip well with piping, electrical, and mechanical components.
For more information on Well No. 10 Project, visit our page dedicated Well No. 10 landing page visit https://www.fillmoreca.gov/1351/Water-Well-No-10-Project.
Below is the Well No. 10 Landing Page:
Project Update 1/28/26
The project will involve drilling and construction of a new groundwater well at Delores Day Park, 868 Goodenough Rd, Fillmore, CA.
Potential Impacts and Mitigation
While minimal noise and activity are expected, crews will be doing everything possible to minimize disruption to the surrounding neighborhood. Traffic Control Measures and sound barriers will be in place to reduce impact.
Project Schedule (Times and Dates are subject to change based on contractor negotiations)
Dates & Activity
Jan 12 - Jan 16: Installation of temporary fence & shoulder closure (7am - 5pm)
Jan 26 - Feb 4: Soundwall Installation
Feb 6 - Feb 20 : Pilot Hole Drilling (24/7 Operation)
Mar 9 - Mar 23: Well Expansion Drilling (24/7 Operation)
Mar 23 - Apr 27: Well Development (7am - 5pm) 7- days a week
Apr 27 - May 8: Well # 5 Destruction (7am-5pm) 7 - days a week
Will Delores Day Park be open during the Well No. Project?
The playground at Delores Day Park is temporarily closed for removal and replacement of playground chips, and the area designated for drilling Well No. 10 is fenced off. Restrooms and park shelters remain open and accessible.
Questions?
For questions related to Project Well No. 10, contact Public Works at 805-535-6625 or visit https://www.fillmoreca.gov/1351/Water-Well-No-10-Project.

The Old Telegraph Road single-lane bridge closure remains in effect until emergency repairs are completed. Work began on March 23, 2026, with completion anticipated by May 26, 2026, following the Memorial Day holiday. Motorists are encouraged to plan ahead, use alternate routes, and allow extra travel time. Thank you for your patience as we complete these necessary improvements for public safety. Posted March 24, 2026, courtesy https://www.facebook.com/cityoffillmore.

FRIENDS OF THE BLANCHARD COMMUNITY LIBRARY
BACK STACKS Used Book Sale
119 N. 8th Street, Santa Paula, CA
BIG SATURDAY SALE April 4, 2026
10AM TO 2PM
APRIL SALE ITEM
BUY ONE, GET ONE FREE (BOGO!)
Huge Half Price Sale! The best used book store in the Heritage Valley is offering you great books at even lower prices in April, 2026. Buy one book and you get another one free.
We have loads of gently used books in all genres.
Spend a Saturday morning in Santa Paula and check out the Back Stacks. Buy a book and you will support the Blanchard Community Library, as all proceeds go to help the Library.
If you miss the Saturday sale, the weekday hours are outlined below.
Wednesdays from 12 pm to 4 PM (except January 1st)
Thursdays from 12pm to 2pm
Fridays from 12 pm to 2pm
We accept cash, checks and credit cards.
We have a large inventory of Fiction and Non-fiction, as well as children’s books. Our collection features 1,000’s of used books from 50 cents to $2, as well as collectible books from $4 and up. 100% of book sale proceeds goes to support the Blanchard Community Library. PLEASE NOTE: We love receiving donations, and accept everything EXCEPT VHS, magazines or cassette taps. Also, we accept donations ONLY on days when the Library is open for business to ensure that your generous donation is not damaged or stolen.
Located at the Blanchard Community Library, 119 North 8th Street, Santa Paula,
LOOK FOR our BOOK SALE SIGNS on 8th Street

Robert Appleford was the speaker at last week’s Rotary meeting. He gave an update of the Aviation Explorer Post at Camarillo Airport. They have 25 members now ages 14-20 and meet once a month on the second Saturday of the month. There are Explorer Posts all over the nation. They have hands-on experience with all kinds of tools and are building an aircraft. They also have guest speakers from different occupations and appreciate anyone who wants to participate. They learn about different aspects of aviation, give out Flight Scholarships and help at Air Shows.

The County of Ventura has issued an extreme heat warning for this past week and released some information on the do’s and do nots during extreme heat. Above is a chart for recognizing the signs and differences of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Photo credit and for more information visit https://emergency.venturacounty.gov/.

Released March 16, 2026
Ventura County, Calif. — The National Weather Service in Los Angeles/Oxnard has issued an extreme heat warning from Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. through 8:00 p.m. Friday, March 20, 2026. Temperatures in the valleys and inland mountain areas are expected to reach the 100-degree mark for a prolonged period of time, with relatively poor overnight recovery. A heat advisory has been issued for all other parts of the county – including along the coast and areas that are not commonly subject to high temperatures.
High temperatures may create a dangerous situation in which heat-related illnesses are possible. Residents are encouraged to: drink plenty of fluids, stay in air-conditioned rooms, stay out of the sun, check on relatives and neighbors, take extra precautions if working or spending time outside, and wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing when possible. When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening.
To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments.
Children, the elderly, and those with significant underlying medical conditions are most susceptible to the effects of heat. No person or pet should be left in an enclosed vehicle or direct sunlight for extended periods of time. Temperatures quickly rise to life-threatening levels – even if the windows are partially open.
Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. It is also important to know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Signs and Symptoms of Heatstroke
• Symptoms: Headache, nausea, red, hot, and dry skin, no perspiration, body temperature of 104°F or higher, chills, rapid pulse, confusion and/or altered mental status.
• First Aid: Cool person immediately! Move to shade or indoors, wrap in a cool, wet sheet, and get medical assistance.
• Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 9 1 1.
To help provide respite from the heat, residents who live in heat-prone areas are encouraged to seek refuge in a designated cooling center. For a list of current cooling centers, please call 211 or visit www.vcemergency.com.
Tips for Responding to Extreme Heat Events
Do
• Use air conditioners or spend time in air-conditioned locations such as designated cooling centers.
• Use portable electric fans to exhaust hot air from rooms or draw in cooler air.
• Take a cool bath or shower.
• Minimize direct exposure to the sun.
• Wear sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher and reapply every 2 hours.
• Stay hydrated – regularly drink water or other nonalcoholic fluids.
• Wear loose fitting, light-colored clothes.
• Check on people who may need assistance related to the heat.
• Know the symptoms of excessive heat exposure and the appropriate responses.
Do not
• Leave children and pets alone in cars for any amount of time.
• Drink alcohol to try to stay cool.
• Wear heavy, dark clothing.

Board of Directors Meeting Thursday, March 19, 2026, 4:00 p.m. at City of Fillmore City Hall Council Chambers, 250 Central Avenue, Fillmore, CA 93015
To participate in the Board of Directors meeting via Zoom, please access: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85480305580?pwd=ZnFBWGhtVU05dXd3REFkM255c0h6UT...
Meeting ID: 854 8030 5580
Password: FPBGSA
To hear just the audio portion of the meeting, phone into: Toll-free number: 877 853 5247 Meeting ID: 854 8030 5580
AGENDA
1. CALL TO ORDER
1A Pledge of Allegiance
1B Directors Roll Call 1C Public Comments
Fillmore and Piru Basins Groundwater Sustainability Agency (Agency) will accept public comment concerning agenda items at the time the item is considered and on any non-agenda item within the jurisdiction of the Board during the agendized Public Comment period. No action will be taken by the Board on any non-agenda item. In accordance with Government Code § 54954.3(b)(1), public comment will be limited to three (3) minutes per speaker per issue.
1D Approval of Agenda Motion
2. UPDATES
2A Director Announcements/Board Communications:
Oral Reports from the Board.
Fillmore Pumpers Association Stakeholder Director Update Piru Pumpers Association Stakeholder Director Update Environmental Stakeholder Director Update
City of Fillmore Member Director Update
United Water Conservation District Member Director Update County of Ventura Member Director Update
2B Executive Director Update Information Item
The Executive Director will provide an informational update on Agency activities since the previous Special Board of Directors meeting of February 19, 2026.
2C Legal Counsel Update Information Item
Legal Counsel will provide an informational update on Agency’s legal issues and concerns since the previous Special Board of Directors meeting of February 19, 2026.
2D GSP Consultant Update Information Item
Representatives from Daniel B Stephens & Associates will provide an informational update on the Agency’s groundwater sustainability planning activities since the previous Special Board of Directors meeting of February 19, 2026.
3. CONSENT CALENDAR
All matters listed under the Consent Calendar are considered routine by the Board and will be enacted by one motion. There will be no separate discussion of these items unless a Board member pulls an item from the Calendar. Pulled items will be discussed and acted on separately by the Board. Members of the public who want to comment on a Consent Calendar item should do so under Public Comments. (ROLL CALL VOTE REQUIRED)
3A Approval of Minutes
The Board will consider approving the Minutes from the Special Board of Directors meeting of February 19, 2026.
3B Approval of Warrants
The Board will consider approving payment of outstanding vendor invoices:
United Water Conservation District $29,743.54
Aleshire & Wynder LLP $ 1,463.20
DBS&A $ 1,426.00
Stillwater Sciences Inc. $925.50
3C Monthly Financial Report
The Board will receive the monthly financial report for the Fillmore and Piru Basins Groundwater Sustainability Agency.
4. MOTION ITEMS
4A Write-Off of Uncollectible Receivable Motion
The Board will consider approving the write-off of uncollectible receivables.
4B Annual Reports to California Department of Water Resources Motion
The Board will consider approving the Water Year 2024-2025 Annual Reports to the California Department of Water Resources for the Fillmore subbasin and Piru subbasin.
4C Proposed Amendments to Work Plan and Schedule
The Board will receive a presentation from staff and DBS&A on proposed changes to the Agency’s Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Work Plan and Schedule and provide comments and directions.
5. FUTURE ITEMS
6. ADJOURNMENT
The Board will adjourn to the next Regular Board Meeting on Thursday, April 16, 2026, or call of the Chair.
Materials, which are non-exempt public records and are provided to the Board of Directors to be used in consideration of the above agenda items, including any documents provided subsequent to the publishing of this agenda, are available for inspection at UWCD’s offices at 1701 N. Lombard Street in Oxnard during normal business hours.
The Americans with Disabilities Act provides that no qualified individual with a disability shall be excluded from participation in, or denied the benefits of, the District’s services, programs or activities because of any disability. If you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, or if you require agenda materials in an alternative format, please contact the UWCD Office at (805) 525-4431 or the City of Fillmore at (805) 524- 1500. Notification of at least 48 hours prior to the meeting will enable the District to make appropriate arrangements
Approved: Board Chair Kelly Long
Posted: (date) March 13, 2026 (time) 5:00 p.m. (attest) Eva Ibarra At: https://www.FPBGSA.org
Posted: (date) March 13, 2026 (time) 5:05 p.m. (attest) Eva Ibarra At: https://www.facebook.com/FPBGSA
Posted: (date) March 13, 2026 (time) 5:10 p.m. (attest) Eva Ibarra At: UWCD, 1701 N. Lombard Street, Oxnard
Posted: (date) March 13, 2026 (time) 5:15 p.m. (attest) Juana Garcia At: Fillmore City Hall, 250 Central Avenue, Fillmore, CA

Pictured is Fillmore Rotary President Scott Beylik presenting speaker Chris Brashears, who shared about Central Coast Free Vision Clinic, with a Rotary mug. Photo credit Martha Richardson.
Enlarge Photo

Last week, Chris Brashears was Fillmore Rotary’s speaker for the week. He has been a Rotarian in Ventura since the 80’s and is also a member of the Lions Club. He works with the Central Coast Free Vision Clinic. They partner with the Ventura Lions Club. It started at the Salvation Army, and they have a van that travels around the county. On Tuesday mornings they take the clinic to Ventura. People line up and get free eye exams if they need glasses, they can get them there if they have cataracts and need surgery they go to a surgeon. Everything is free to them and is donated. Once at the clinic they are excited because now they can drive and get a job. They are happy to receive donations at the Salvation Army and they get donations of glasses also. They are having a Document Shredding and Recycle Event on April 4th 9-12p.m. It is held at the Salvation Army Ventura Corps 650 S. Petit Avenue in Ventura. It will include Document Shredding, Eyeglass Recycling, Prescription Drug Disposal, Cell Phone Recycling and Ink Cartridge Recycling. There is a suggested donation of $10 per box for shredding all other items are free. Their website for weekly clinic locations is ccfreevision.org.

April 25 & 26 will be the 2026 Fillmore Flower Show. This year’s theme is “A Blooming Good Time”. Locals are invited to participate or to come out and enjoy the show. Above are entries from a previous show. Photo credit Linda Nunes.
Enlarge Photo

The Free to ENTER & Free to ATTEND, Fillmore Flower Show will be arriving April 25th & 26th with a theme of, “A Blooming Good Time!” This Fillmore event had its beginning in 1919 & there are albums in the Historical Museum with pictures of entries & the people from several generations that entered them. These will be brought to the Show for you to look at & maybe see a younger version of yourself or friends.
Two Divisions that might need further explanation are Division VII-Potted Plants & Division VIII-Dish Gardens.
The potted plant would be one type of plant, in a pot that isn’t too heavy for you to carry & which hopefully is not full of an ant colony which we have had before! Ants began existing all over the table! No! Put an ant stake in the pot several weeks ahead, if your plant lives outside.
The Dish Garden would be a pot filled with different varieties of plants & perhaps figurines or items representing a tiny garden for Hobbits or creatures in a woodland. Let your imagination enjoy the freedom to create.
Hope to see you at the entry table on Saturday, 25th between 7:30a.m. & no later than 10a.m. when doors close for judging. In fact, don’t wait until 10am because you need to fill out an entry tag!!

Ventura Fire Safe is hosting FREE Chipper Events across Ventura County to help residents dispose of brush and reduce wildfire risk. Multiple locations including Fillmore, Piru, Santa Paula, Ojai, Ventura, Thousand Oaks & more April – July 2026. Registration is required for ALL locations. Help protect your home and community by clearing defensible space the easy way. Register today: venturafiresafe.org/chipper. Courtesy https://www.facebook.com/cityoffillmore.

As your elected Sheriff, I am committed to transparency, accountability, and maintaining the trust of the communities we serve. This statement is intended to provide an explanation regarding our agency’s use of Flock Safety’s Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) technology and the findings of a recent audit of Flock system data.
The Sheriff’s Office has been utilizing ALPR technology for nearly a decade. ALPRs capture vehicle-related images, including an image of the vehicle’s license plate. This information is used for legitimate law enforcement investigations and public safety operations. Our Flock ALPR data is stored in an encrypted cloud environment for one year before it is deleted.
State law prohibits California law enforcement agencies from sharing ALPR data with out-of-state and federal law enforcement agencies. California law also limits cooperation between California law enforcement agencies and federal law enforcement agencies as it pertains to immigration enforcement, with few exceptions as outlined in Senate Bill 54.
To comply with state law, in June of 2023 we disabled Flock’s “National Lookup” feature. This feature allowed participating law enforcement agencies throughout the country the ability to search ALPR data of other participating agencies. Flock estimates that 75% of their 5,000 law enforcement customers throughout the nation participate in “National Lookup.” By disabling this feature, we ensured that our data was only searchable by California law enforcement agencies.
ALPR technology has proven to be an invaluable investigative tool. It has assisted law enforcement in:
- Locating suspect vehicles in homicide, robbery, burglary, and organized retail theft investigations
- Locating and recovering stolen vehicles
- Finding vehicles associated with missing persons, Silver Alerts, and Amber Alerts
- Investigating hit-and-run auto collisions
- Identifying vehicles connected to violent crimes
- Enhancing officer safety during active and high-risk incidents (such as an active shooter)
Since implementing ALPR technology, our agency has experienced numerous investigative successes. A few are highlighted below:
- The Sheriff’s Office utilized ALPRs (including Flock readers) to assist in recovering 38 stolen vehicles in 2024 and 46 stolen vehicles in 2025. Many arrests were made associated with the vehicle thefts over this time frame.
- On July 1, 2024, suspects used stolen vehicles to burglarize a Camarillo gun store, stealing 63 firearms. Flock readers linked a suspect vehicle between Thousand Oaks and Camarillo, leading to the identification of six suspects from Riverside and Las Vegas. Working with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, authorities arrested the group, clearing a nine-month spree involving nine different gun store burglaries and 300 stolen firearms.
- On January 1, 2025, multiple semi-trailers and tractors, including loads stolen from Harbor Freight in Camarillo, were taken across Los Angeles and Ventura counties. Flock readers tracked the stolen trailers, enabling detectives to identify suspects, secure search warrants, make arrests, and recover $1.5 million in stolen merchandise.
- On July 2, 2025, a woman was followed from her bank to her workplace in Moorpark in an attempted theft. Deputies obtained a partial license plate from the victim. Sheriff’s Dispatch – Advanced Real Time Information Center (ARTIC) used ALPR data to identify the suspect vehicle and confirmed a hit in Simi Valley, allowing investigators to quickly locate and detain both suspects. The suspects were positively identified and arrested, and a search of the vehicle uncovered a large amount of cash and evidence linked to additional follow home theft cases, demonstrating the critical role ALPR played in the successful resolution.
- On November 25, 2025, multiple reports of gunshots and screaming led deputies to respond to a confirmed shooting into a residence in Nyeland Acres. Witnesses reported the suspects fled in a dark-colored Nissan Altima and used a rifle. Dispatch provided critical ALPR data identifying the suspect vehicle in Camarillo. Deputies located the vehicle shortly after and arrested one adult and four juveniles. A modified AR-15 style rifle was recovered.
- On January 10, 2026, deputies received a Flock hit on a vehicle driven by a known probationer and located it parked at a shooting range in Piru. A records check confirmed the driver was a convicted felon prohibited from possessing firearms. Because of the ALPR hit, the suspect was arrested on several firearms related charges.
- On January 25, 2026, after a jewelry theft in Moorpark, the suspect fled in a red Dodge Challenger, colliding with several parked vehicles. An off-duty deputy who witnessed the event provided the license plate, and ARTIC leveraged Flock data to track the vehicle’s movement through Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks, and into Camarillo. Deputies located the vehicle and arrested two suspects for theft-related charges, conspiracy, and hit and run. The stolen jewelry was recovered and returned to the victim.
- On January 31, 2026, a witness in a homicide investigation provided specific details about a vehicle connected to the suspect. A search of ALPR data helped to identify the complete license plate number of the vehicle within 8 minutes of the call to dispatch. The information allowed law enforcement to quickly locate the vehicle and bring the search for the suspect to an end.
These are just a few examples of how the use of ALPRs keep Ventura County residents safe. These systems enable us to quickly develop investigative leads that would not otherwise exist, significantly improving our ability to prevent crime, solve cases, and protect victims and the public. The safety of our residents is our highest priority.
Earlier this month, the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office learned that some California law enforcement agencies discovered an error by Flock that caused their “National Lookup” feature to turn on without explanation and without notification to the agency. Those agencies reported that their ALPR data became searchable by out of state law enforcement agencies, including federal law enforcement agencies.
As a result, our agency conducted an audit of our ALPR data on February 11, 2026. The purpose of this audit was to confirm that our ALPR data had not been accessed or shared by law enforcement agencies outside of California.
The audit revealed that despite the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office disabling “National Lookup” in June of 2023 to comply with state law, from February 19, 2025, through March 19, 2025, Flock’s error allowed law enforcement agencies from outside the state of California to query our data without our knowledge or approval just over 364,000 times.
The audit further revealed that 299 search justifications entered into the system referenced immigration enforcement. This was done by both federal and local agencies outside California, accounting for a total of 0.08%, or less than 1/10 of 1 percent of all searches.
Upon discovery of the audit results, our agency immediately engaged with Flock representatives, who told us that other agencies experienced similar issues. Flock further advised that due to limitations in technical logging, it was impossible to determine the specific cause. They provided three possible explanations for how our data became searchable nationwide from February 19, 2025, through March 19, 2025:
1. One of our agency’s administrators activated a nationwide lookup feature that would allow out-of-state agencies to access our data.
2. A Flock employee activated the nationwide lookup feature.
3. A system bug automatically activated the nationwide lookup feature.
Regarding bullet point one, we conducted an internal investigation and determined that no one from our agency activated the national lookup feature.
We learned that on or about March 19, 2025, Flock made a company-wide decision to remove the ability for any California law enforcement agency to activate the national lookup feature, which potentially explains why our data was shared for only one month. According to Flock, this was done to ensure compliance with California law.
Flock was unable to determine if any of the out of state queries matched images captured by our ALPRs, but only stated that our data was accessible to out of state or federal agencies and not specifically targeted by out of state or federal agencies. To be clear, we do not know if any out of state law enforcement agencies or federal law enforcement agencies received any images or information captured by our license plate readers.
Effective immediately, we have implemented enhanced internal safeguards, including daily audits conducted by our agency to independently verify system settings and access logs.
Flock has made internal improvements to their system to prevent this from occurring again. This includes reassurances that Flock does not have any contracts with ICE or any sub-agency of the Department of Homeland Security. Flock has blocked federal agencies from engaging in any data sharing relationships with California law enforcement agencies. Flock verified that no California law enforcement agencies have the option to have their data searched by or shared with any law enforcement agency outside the state, including with federal agencies. Flock initiated features that automatically block any searches of data that use immigration related terms as a justification for the search.
Additionally, to ensure full transparency and secure the most reliable and compliant technology available, our agency will explore alternative ALPR vendors. This process will allow us to evaluate all available vendors and ensure that whichever system we utilize moving forward provides the highest standards of security, accountability, and functionality.
ALPR technology remains a powerful and critical tool in combating crime and protecting our communities. Its value in identifying suspects, recovering stolen vehicles, locating missing people, and solving serious and violent crimes cannot be overstated.
However, public trust is equally critical. It is the cornerstone of effective law enforcement. It is essential to community safety, accountability, and legitimacy. We are committed to maintaining that trust through transparency and our responsible use of technology.
Prepared by: Sheriff Jim Fryhoff
News Release Date: February 27, 2026
***
Nature of Incident: Flock Safety Automated License Plate Readers and Data Security
Date: February 27, 2026

Ventura County Sheriff’s Emergency Services is inviting the public to review and comment on the updated Ventura County Operational Area Emergency Operations Plan from March 3 through April 3, 2026, at 5:00 PM.
Residents, businesses, and community organizations are encouraged to take part in a virtual Town Hall on March 18, 2026, at 6:30 PM. Staff will highlight what has changed in the plan, explain why it matters, and outline how to submit comments. The meeting will also include a preview of the County’s upcoming Hazard Mitigation Plan update.
The Emergency Operations Plan serves as the County’s playbook for preparing for, responding to, and recovering from disasters. It defines roles and responsibilities, supports coordination across jurisdictions, and outlines how the Emergency Operations Center is activated during incidents.
To review the draft plan, register for the Town Hall, or submit comments, visit:
https://ready.venturacounty.gov/eop-update-2026/
Individuals who require language translation or other accommodations to participate in the Town Hall may request assistance during online registration, by calling 805 437 4205, or by emailing OES.OES@venturacounty.gov. Requests should be submitted by noon on March 13, 2026, to allow time for coordination.
Prepared by: Director Patrick Maynard
News Release Date: 3/2/2026
Patrick.Maynard@ventura.org
***
Community: Ventura County Seeks Public Input on Emergency Operations Plan (EOP)
Nature of Incident: Ventura County Seeks Public Input on Emergency Operations Plan (EOP)
Date & Time: March 3, 2026 – April 3, 2026
Unit(s) Responsible: Sheriff’s Emergency Services

Pictured (l-r) is Fillmore Rotary Club President Scott Beylik presenting guest speaker Steve Conaway with a Rotary mug. Photo credit Martha Richardson.

Fillmore Rotary Club President Scott Beylik introduced this week’s guest speaker Steve Conaway. Steve has been involved in competitive BBQ-ing for several years. He started by talking to others and got enthused to try it, sending him down the long BBQ competition road. Steve cooks different proteins, chicken, ribs, pork and beef brisket. At first, he didn’t win but began taking classes and then was off. He has cooked all over the United States and is the top in US. In 2019 he got Grand Champion and then covid hit and things changed. Now he is part of a different company. He talked about what the judges look for in the meat appearance, texture, and taste. The main goal is to make something the judges like, not just some new idea the person comes up with. What he enjoys about competing is seeing friends. In three weeks, he is going to Texas to compete in the World Championship event. As part of his program, he set up his BBQ in the parking lot and brought in Rib Eye steaks for all the Rotary members to try. Delicious!