Supervisor Monthly Message ~ District 2 ~ January, 2022

Welcome 2022!

 

Happy New Year, Tulare County! I can't believe what a year 2021 was, but I am looking forward to what the new year will bring us. One of the largest investments ever made in our county’s history will be implemented throughout this upcoming year thanks to the American Rescue Plan Act. The county received around $90 million in federal relief funds that will be re-invested in numerous infrastructure projects in the unincorporated areas of Tulare County. We are going to improve potable water systems, improve the recreation facilities at our parks, and expand the capabilities of our public safety agencies through the implementation of better telecommunications services.

For example, in the communities of Pixley and Alpaugh, we're going to be investing over two million dollars. This investment will be used in installing new grills, picnic tables, and irrigation systems, and repairing arbors. One of the things that we learned during the COVID-19 lockdown was how important recreational opportunities were for our residents and communities. Even after the end of the lockdown, many of the activities that were once readily available are no longer viable, so people turn to our parks to experience new recreational opportunities. Our parks are tremendous resources, and we need to invest in them to help improve their facilities and make them more accessible.

We are also going to be investing significant resources into drinking and wastewater treatment projects. Whether it's in Tipton or Earlimart, our wastewater systems really inhibited and restricted growth in the past, but now we're going to be able to make these investments in those communities that need these essential updates. In collaboration with the many public and community service districts, these projects are really going to be transformational in our unincorporated communities.

I'm also very excited for the investments in the new communication towers for our emergency services. These new radio towers will greatly expand and improve coverage to make sure that our public safety departments have the best resources available to them.

I am thrilled for all the future projects the American Rescue Plan will bring, so stay tuned and lookout for these huge projects. Thank you, and here comes 2022!

 

Pete Vander Poel

District 2 Supervisor