Dear District 5 Residents,
Since taking office this January 2nd, we have been working diligently to bring about innovative programs for our residents.
Some of you may know that I have a background in education. I started as a special education teacher with the Moreno Valley Unified School District where I taught for 14 years. Education has always been a passion of mine, so I am always looking for ways to support our educational system.
In the latest Board of Supervisors meeting, I did just that. My colleagues and I voted unanimously to authorize an additional $8 Million in funding for early childhood education (ECE). Studies have shown how ECE programs can prepare children to develop the social and emotional skills they need to succeed and graduate high school. The approved funds build on a previous allocation that paid more than 3,100 childcare workers one-time wage enhancements of $2,400 each, helping to retain a crucial workforce under strain from years of low wages exacerbated by the pandemic. This investment into early childhood education recognizes the critical role childcare plays for our growing population. This funding is very personal to me as my mom was an early childhood teacher. I saw firsthand how hard she worked and how families relied on her to take care of their children while they went to work. Participants can apply by visiting the County’s First Five website: www.rccfc.org.
Also, at the January 24th Board of Supervisors meeting, I appointed Romelio Ruiz Jr. to the planning commission as the representative for the 5th District. Romelio will do a great job serving in this position. The Riverside County Planning Commission's next meeting will be on February 1, 2023.
Recently, I have been working with Southern California Gas Company to aid residents with the soaring cost of natural gas. I am excited to report that SoCalGas has contributed $1 million dollars to the Gas Assistance Fund. I am proud to announce that my colleagues and I also approved $3 million in additional funding for this program. We are taking every step to ensure that families can stay warm. These contributions will provide much-needed relief for those struggling to afford their natural gas bills. Customers experiencing hardship can explore bill payment or assistance options by calling 1-800-427-2200 or by visiting www.capriverside.org
Please be on the lookout for my first monthly Newsletter. It will be distributed on the last Tuesday of every month. In my newsletter, you will find helpful county programs, events, updates, and specific happenings in our 5th District.
Thank you once again for your support and for making District 5 special.
Supervisor Yxstian Gutierrez.