Supervisor Monthly Message ~ District 3 ~ July 2022

7% COLA and ARPA Projects in the Works!

Happy July everyone! 

We are officially more than halfway through 2022, and so far, this year is quite different than 2021. Last summer we were still in the clutches of the Covid 19 pandemic, and even through the threat of a resurgence is currently very real, our lives are slowly returning to normal.  However, the economic side effects of the pandemic have contributed to rampant inflation, soring gas prices, and housing insecurity. 

To ensure the continued success of Tulare County and its citizens, my colleagues and I on the Board of Supervisors approved a 7% cost of living adjustment to the more than 4,000 Tulare County employees. This adjustment was not a result of any negotiations or labor contracts, but simply the Board looking out for the wellbeing of our county staff and their families.

The cost of living adjustment demonstrates the county’s strong financial position at the end of this fiscal year and projected growth into the next. Financial stability has allowed the county to provide additional funds that are invested in the community, thanks in part to the new projects supported by the American Rescue Plan Act. ARPA funds continue to play a pivotal role in revitalizing our parks, with 8 parks on schedule to receive major renovations. 

ARPA continues to provide the means to fund new water infrastructure projects, such as the recently approved Pixley PUD’s water main extension project, the first of many possible projects in the months to come. ARPA has also been pivotal in securing the means necessary to expand housing to individuals experiencing homelessness.  ARPA funds were used to help secure the acquisition of Tagus Gardens which ,once completed, will provide 56 units of permanent housing. Despite the hardships we have seen over the past couple of years, Tulare County and its people continue to press forward and improve their community and way of life.

Amy Shuklian 
District 3 Supervisor