Regional Meeting in Ventura County Highlights County Risk, Resilience and Responsibility 

County leaders from across California convened in Ventura County to discuss the complex and growing challenges counties face in managing risk and liability. The two-day gathering at CSAC’s second Regional Meeting of the year offered both strategic insight and real-world inspiration – showcasing how strong partnerships and thoughtful planning can drive meaningful change in communities. 

Day one began with site tours of two homeless housing projects. Thrive Grove in Thousand Oaks – opened to residents this week – offers 27 units and 30 beds. The city’s first homeless housing facility is the result of consistent outreach and coordination by Ventura County. In nearby Oxnard, attendees toured Central Terrace, a five-story, 85-unit low-income housing development made possible through a city-county partnership to adjust zoning laws. The building’s exterior features a mural honoring the late Supervisor Carmen Ramirez, underscoring the project’s deep community ties. 

The second day’s conversations turned to the significant risks facing counties. 

Participants first heard a compelling case study from North Carolina, one of 12 states where counties carry broad governing responsibilities, much like California. When Hurricane Helene struck small mountain communities like Chimney Rock, a recent training exercise enabled leaders to immediately include counties in the state’s Emergency Operations Center. That communication continued throughout the crisis and response period. Less than two months later, counties, cities, and state leaders gathered to assess needs and coordinate recovery – demonstrating the impact of preparation and unified response.

The final session provided a high-level overview of mounting legal risks, from wildfire-related claims and employment law challenges to the lasting effects of AB 218 and rising “nuclear verdicts.” A legal panel featuring county counsels from Los Angeles and Kern counties stressed the importance of proactive planning, internal coordination, and documentation to manage liability and maintain public trust. 

Throughout the meeting, county leaders reflected on the tension between risk mitigation and policy innovation – and the need to strike a balance that allows for both accountability and progress. 

“Counties are on the front lines of nearly every public challenge,” said CSAC President and Inyo County Supervisor Jeff Griffiths. “As our responsibilities grow, so too must our capacity to anticipate risk, protect public resources, and continue delivering essential services with integrity and foresight.” 

The meeting underscored that California’s counties are not alone in these challenges – and that by sharing knowledge, building partnerships, and investing in readiness, they can continue to lead with resilience and purpose. 

The first CSAC Regional Meeting in Butte County in March focused on disaster response and recovery.