Clear, clean water for rural community -- done

CAMARILLO, Calif. - Californer -- Assembly member Monique Limón and Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson met an enthusiastic crowd this week to deliver the good news that $2.65 million in funds were now available to County of Ventura's Public Works Agency (VCPWA) Water and Sanitation Department (WSD). The funds will help support Ventura County Waterworks District (VCWWD) No. 19 provide better water quality, a reduction in minerals, and safe drinking water, specifically in Well #2 Iron and Manganese Treatment Facility that is located in the unincorporated community of Somis.

Assembly member Monique Limón and Sen. Hannah-Beth Jackson described working together to find the funds for the water system.

"I am proud to have worked with my colleagues to ensure much needed funding is allocated to our community. The investments made will yield long-term benefits to the constituents of Ventura County and especially Somis. I look forward to celebrating and continuing to work to bring much needed resources to our district," said Assembly member Limón.

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This year's state budget prioritizes safe and affordable drinking water by providing over $100 million per year to provide communities with resources to deliver clean drinking water.

"When communities and state legislators work together, we have an opportunity to match local needs with vital state budget investments," said Sen. Jackson. "From helping our youth to ensuring safe drinking water and supporting our libraries, these investments will make a real difference for our residents and young people."

VCPWA's Water and Sanitation Department, is responsible for 4 water districts and this $2.65 million dollars will open up opportunities for additional VCWWD #19 projects and initiatives going forward.

"This infusion of cash into this mostly agricultural water district is a huge win for the community. This project is key to providing new infrastructure for water for all residents, agricultural and other users and will reduce the iron and manganese minerals to acceptable levels, ensuring higher quality drinkable water for the Somis area – Waterworks District 19," said Joe Pope, VCPWA's Director for the Water and Sanitation Department.

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In attendance were District 2 Supervisor, Linda Parks, who collaborated on the state level; as well as Ventura County CEO Michael Powers; Sue Hughes, Senior Deputy Executive Officer Government Affairs Ventura County and Pat Richards, Chair of the Somis Municipal Advisory Council. Also present were members of the Citizens' Advisory Committee for Waterworks District No. 19, David Hutter, Lynette Buchanan-Roth and former member Dr. Colleen Robertson and leaders of VCPWA's Water and Sanitation Department, Joe Pope, Susan Pan, Dave Hazen, Marco Segui, Aurora Isabel, Rick Bleak, and Atika Marsela.