Monthly Third District Newsletter - October 2023

Dear Third District Resident,  

Sincere regards, 

CARE Act Launches in Riverside County 

Recently, I spoke at a press conference for the launch of the CARE Act in Riverside County.  The CARE Act – Community Assistance, Recovery, and Empowerment – is a new state law intended to address the needs of our most vulnerable residents by allowing the court to order the county to provide behavioral health treatment in community-based settings.  Riverside County is one of seven pilot counties launching CARE Act services today. And since the legislation was signed into law, we’ve been preparing to bring a new, collaborative civil court process to residents that provides personalized treatment plans and community-based support services. This includes the Court System, Riverside University Health System’s Behavioral Health Department and Medical Centers, the county’s department of Housing and Workforce Solutions, our Public Defender’s Office, and countywide law enforcement agencies, hospitals, and all of our cities working together. 

Further, throughout my years in public service, I’ve spoken with countless families who know what it’s like to watch loved ones struggle with mental illness and the heartbreaking consequences that follow. This is a step forward for them. 

California Firefighters Appreciation Month 

In October, we honor and commemorate California firefighters as a token of gratitude and appreciation to the individuals who put their lives on the line each day to protect us. Our firefighters respond to approximately 3,000,000 incidents across the state every year. Their work goes beyond fighting fires. These brave individuals also provide emergency medical services and respond to natural disasters, water rescue emergencies, and other general public service calls. As essential public safety officers, they courageously protect us and our families daily. 

Join us in honoring California firefighters and those throughout the nation.  

Wildomar’s State of the City 

In September, I attended the Wildomar State of the City address presented by Mayor Joseph Morabito. As we slowly integrate Wildomar into the Third District, it is apparent that the city is a remarkable and flourishing community. We are excited to “continue our path forward” with this beautiful city. 

Winchester Days Community Fair 

This past weekend, my team and I attended the Winchester Days Community Fair where we, in collaboration with Valley-Wide Recreation and Winchester-Homeland Town Association, sponsored the event with a $25,000 grant.  

My office held a booth amongst other county vendors where we engaged with all who attended. It was a wonderful event, full of fun with carnival games, hayrides, a petting zoo, bounce houses, food trucks, and live music! This is the first time in a number of years that this previously held annual event has occurred. We were grateful to be a part of this wonderful community event.  

Community Spotlight: Habitat for Humanity Inland Valley  

This month we would like to highlight the wonderful organization known as Habitat for Humanity. 

Habitat for Humanity Inland Valley is committed to promoting safe and quality housing not only locally, but globally through advocating for reasonable and just housing policies. The organization’s efforts also include constructing and rehabilitating homes, as well as connecting families with training and resources to improve their housing conditions. My office recently joined in partnership with Habitat for Humanity Inland Valley by contributing a $90,000 grant to their home repair program. Program services include yard cleanup, exterior house painting, exterior accessibility such as adding ramps or steps to the home, roof repairs, heating/cooling repairs, window repairs and other minor exterior home repairs. The initiative is currently available to both homes and mobile homes in the areas of Homeland, Winchester, and Romoland, serving qualified, low-income homeowners. We are working to expand this program throughout our district. To learn more about the program and for information on how to apply, visit habitativ.org.  

Menifee State of the City & Birthday Bash 

The City of Menifee State of the City address and 15th birthday celebration will take place on October 19th, 5:00PM – 9:00PM at Mt. San Jacinto College’s Menifee Valley Campus. The night will begin with a community update, followed by a concert featuring Neon Nation and a party with various food vendors.  

Learn More  

CSA 149 Fall Festival  

Join County Service Area (CSA) 149 in Temecula on Saturday, October 21st, 2:00PM – 5:00PM at Galleron Park for a fall festival. Mark your calendar for a day filled with crafts, pumpkins, activities including a haunted house, contest costume, games, and a live DJ.  

Learn More 

Valley-Wide Recreation’s Annual Halloween Block Party 

Valley-Wide Recreation and Park District presents the annual Halloween Block Party at the Valle Vista Community Center on October 21st, 4:00PM – 9:30PM. Enjoy a movie in the park, kids' games and crafts, a kid's costume contest, various food vendors and more! 

Learn More 

Wildomar Fall Family Fun Fair 

Enjoy the Fall Family Fun Fair with the City of Wildomar on Saturday, October 21st, 5:00PM – 8:00PM at Marna O’Brien Park. Festivities include spooktacular vendors, live entertainment, a photo booth, food trucks, raffle prizes and more!  

Learn More 

Temecula Halloween Carnival 

Spend the evening at the annual Halloween Carnival on Saturday, October 27th, 5:30PM – 8:30PM at the Civic Center with family and friends. Games, costume contests and trunk-or-treating will be available for children of all ages to enjoy. Admission is free! 

Learn More 

Murrieta Trunk-or-Treat: Dark in the Park 

Trunk-or-Treat with the City of Murrieta at their third annual Dark in the Park on Saturday, October 28th, 5:30PM – 8:00PM at Town Square Park. This free event will encompass dozens of booths, with an 80s concert performed by “Pulp Vixen” and a spooky laser light show. 

Learn More  

Boards, Committees and Commission Vacancies 

Are you looking for a way to become more involved in your community? If so, Riverside County has numerous boards, committees, and commissions comprised of appointed members of the public, who act in an advisory capacity to the Supervisor, in addition to acting as the Supervisor’s representatives to other members of the public. For information on current vacancies and to apply, click here. 

Board of Supervisors Meetings: 

• CANCELLED: November 15, 2023 | Anza Municipal Advisory Council | 5:30 p.m. | Anza Community Hall 

• December 5, 2023| CSA 149 Meeting | 6:00 p.m. | Wilson Creek Winery