District 1: Supervisor Larry Micari

The Tulare County Veteran Advisory Committee was established in 2019 and works with the Health and Human Services Agency to address issues affecting our Veteran community. The group also assesses local services for Veterans and proposes strategies to address unmet needs. I’m proud to represent the Board of Supervisors on the committee.

If you are a Veteran, a Veteran’s spouse, or other family member, you are eligible for assistance for applying for benefits from the Tulare County Veterans Services Office (VSO). Their team helps you with paperwork, monitoring claims, communicating with the Department of Veterans Affairs, and more. Visit their website for helpful state and federal resources and housing and financial information.

And we invite all Veterans and their families to the Veterans Appreciation Open House on February 8 at Happy Trails. We'll enjoy lunch, community, activities for kids, and more. Learn more at this flier.

District 2: Supervisor Pete Vander Poel

A new year means changes, and the Board of Supervisors votes in a new Chair and Vice Chair at the start of each year. For the fourth time, I’m proud to serve as this year’s Chair of the Board. We hit the ground running and approved our State and Federal legislative platforms for 2025-2027. As we visit Sacramento and Washington DC to advocate for Tulare County, we’ll use these documents to guide our conversations. We don’t set our priorities alone; we work with our county departments to learn what they need to serve the community. You can review the Executive Summaries and full legislative platforms now at https://tularecounty.ca.gov/board/legislative-platforms/.

This year was also the start of a new term in office for me. I was first elected in 2008 and the excitement of a new term never wears off. I was sworn in on January 6 alongside Supervisors Micari and Shuklian and I look forward to serving District 2 for another four years!

District 3: Supervisor Amy Shuklian

Welcome back Visalia Art League!

After a hiatus, the Visalia Art League has regrouped and is a thriving non-profit organization. They recently held a reception at Sebby’s restaurant in downtown Visalia which was well attended by artists and supporters. Sebby’s is partnering with Visalia Art League to display work by local artists. You can also find local artwork at the Book Nook on Main Street.

The arts are a powerful force that shapes culture and inspires progress. Art isn’t just paint on a canvas. Theater performance, dance, and music are all expressions of art. The arts are often overlooked, but diverse arts in the community can foster economic growth, promote mental well-being, and bring people together.

So, the next time you’re looking for something to do check out some of the many of the diverse Art options in Visalia and throughout the county.

District 4: Supervisor Eddie Valero

As we step into a new year, we recognize that there is much to accomplish in 2025. County employees, we encourage you to stay the course and continue your unwavering dedication to serving our underserved communities. The work you do every day—connecting people to essential services, improving lives, and strengthening our county—is immense and deeply needed as we navigate critical times.

A heartfelt thank you to those on the frontlines, ensuring that county business and public services run smoothly for a better quality of life. The road ahead is busy, but your resilience, fortitude, and compassion are what make the difference. It takes a village, and together, as a community, we uplift each other, support our families, and strengthen the bonds of connection that make our county a better place to live and work.

Let’s take on this year with purpose, commitment, and a shared vision for a stronger Tulare County. We appreciate you! 

District 5: Supervisor Dennis Townsend

I received an invitation to attend the inauguration this year and decided to accept and make the trip. It was truly a privilege to be invited by Congressman Vince Fong, even though plans were drastically changed at the last minute.

I was struck by the fact that people were so gracious with the changes and, even in a five-hour line in sub-freezing conditions waiting to get into the Capitol One arena, folks were genuinely, kind, upbeat, and excited to have the opportunity to witness history.

We were able to enjoy the indoor parade, addresses by the President, Vice President, and Cabinet along with entertainment by the Marine Orchestra over the long afternoon. The sense of pride in the U.S. and confident hope for the future were palpable in the arena, the Capitol, and the halls of Congress and... even in taxi cabs and restaurants! What a wonderful opportunity!