Dear [firstname],
Read below for an update on my work in Washington on behalf of CA-22. Make sure to sign up for my newsletter to receive regular updates on what's happening in D.C. and the Central Valley. Know someone who would want to read this newsletter? Make sure to forward it to a friend!
|
There's still time to submit an entry for the 2026 Congressional Art Competition! The winner will have their artwork displayed for one year in the U.S. Capitol and will be invited to attend a winner’s reception in Washington, D.C. during the summer of 2026. Students must be in high school (Grades 9-12) to participate. For a full list of rules and regulations, please visit my website here.
|
On Tuesday, I visited the Arvin-Edison Water Storage District to tour the North Canal Spreading Works Expansion Site. This project will help convert land into groundwater recharge to strengthen water security for nearly 20,000 people, which is why I fought to secure a $2 million investment as part of the Fiscal Year 2026 Interior and Environment Appropriations Act. As a member of the House Committee on Appropriations, it's my priority to deliver real results for the Central Valley, and this is exactly the kind of project that really makes a difference!
|
It was great touring the Granite Construction asphalt plant in Bakersfield this week. While there, I spoke with the Plant Manager, Molly, about how asphalt producers are supporting our local communities and discussed the upcoming Surface Transportation reauthorization in Congress. Thanks for having me!
|
On Wednesday, I visited the Sequoia Riverlands Trust to tour the Capinero Creek Pixley Restoration site. While there, I spoke with staff and local agency partners about their ongoing efforts to conserve land and water resources across our state. It's my priority to protect the agricultural legacy of California’s heartlands, and it’s inspiring to see that mission in action.
|
I had a great time touring the Porterville College Allied Health building on Thursday. During my time there, I spoke with administrators about their registered nursing, psychiatric technology, and EMT programs offered on campus. It's great to see so many programs dedicated to preparing local students for careers in our healthcare sector.
|
During this Child Abuse Prevention Month, it was helpful to meet with the Tulare County Child Abuse Prevention Council. We spoke about their work in our community and upcoming programming to address child abuse and neglect. I appreciate their hard work to create supportive environments for Central Valley children and families.
|
Later in the week, I visited the Central Valley Regional Center—a non-profit that helps provide services to individuals with developmental disabilities. While there, I met with staff to discuss their ongoing work to support the Central Valley disability community. I'm grateful for all the work they do to help families and look forward to our continued partnership.
|
Earlier today, I visited the Salt + Light Neighborhood Village to see firsthand the work they're doing to address homelessness in our communities. I visited their fully furnished housing units and spoke with their team about how they're providing onsite care and support. We also discussed the importance of housing affordability and steps we can take at the federal level to help. As California continues to work to address homelessness, I'm proud to have a resource like Salt + Light right here in the Central Valley.
|
Today, I visited the BLOOM Fresh Discovery Center to meet the dedicated team behind the fruit that helps feed our nation. We discussed their innovative natural breeding techniques for developing new varieties of grapes and cherries, as well as the importance of supporting our specialty crop producers. As a new member of the House Committee on Agriculture, I look forward to continuing to advocate for the priorities of our growers.
|
I really enjoyed my tour of McFarland High School this week! While there, I saw their newly renovated facilities and learned about exciting campus programs like the robotics team. It was great to meet the staff, visit with students, and see firsthand how they're supporting the next generation.
|
This afternoon, I had a productive conversation with McFarland Police Chief Olmos about public safety issues facing the Central Valley. I've always been a strong supporter of our local law enforcement and will continue working with officers to keep our communities safe.
|
This week, Team Valadao visited the Maas Energy Dairy to tour the Lakeside Hub and River Ranch Digester. They also toured Opal W Fry & Son Farming, Kern Energy Refinery in Lamont, the Wonderful Citrus facility in Delano, and Avenal State Prison to learn more about their operations. Later, my staff met with the Kings County Office of Education Superintendent and Kings County CASA to discuss the important work they do to support youth and families in our communities. They were also proud to attend the ribbon cutting for the Kern County Superintendent of School Bell Tower Plaza, newly repurposed as a learning center, where they presented a Certificate of Recognition. In Tulare County, the team joined Tulare County Credit Union for the grand opening of their new Visalia branch and presented them with a Certificate of Recognition. They also met with the Tulare County Association of Governments to discuss key priorities including local infrastructure projects, transit options, and housing solutions that improve quality of life across the region. Later in the week, my staff had the opportunity to honor the Sierra Pacific girls basketball team during their championship parade. They also attended the Shafter State of the City Address hosted by Mayor Tracy Given. Finally, my team met with the Avenal City Manager and PARCS Director to discuss ongoing development projects and community programs aimed at expanding recreational opportunities and community engagement.
|
Trying to get an answer from a federal agency can often be a time-consuming and frustrating process. If you ever need help navigating a federal agency, you can visit my website or call my Hanford office at (559) 460-6070. My team is ready to assist you!
Tratar de obtener una respuesta de una agencia federal a menudo puede ser un proceso frustrante y que requiere mucho tiempo. Si alguna vez necesita ayuda con una agencia federal, puede visitar mi sitio de web aquí o llamar a mi oficina de Hanford al (559) 460-6070. ¡Mi equipo está listo para ayudarte!
|
Do you have a question about my position on an issue? How the Congress operates? My thoughts on the news of the day?
Send your first name, town, and question to AskDavid@mail.house.gov and I might answer yours right here in one of my weekly newsletters. Make sure to subscribe to my weekly email updates to see if your question was answered!
If you want to share your opinion with me on issues of importance, you can always contact me on my website.
|
Did you know you can now sign up for texts from my office to stay up to date on my work in Washington D.C.? To sign up to receive updates from me directly to your phone, just text VALADAO to (559) 387-4346 and you will be automatically subscribed. You can also sign up for text alerts using this form here.
|
Arvin water projects expand with federal support, focus on groundwater recharge
Barraza said when groundwater levels decline, the cost to pump water increases — costs that are often passed on to residents. To address that, the Arvin Community Services District is partnering with the Arvin-Edison Water Storage District on a $2 million project to expand groundwater recharge capacity. The project is funded through federal dollars secured by Rep. David Valadao and is one of several water infrastructure efforts across the 22nd Congressional District.
Read more
|
|
Arvin-Edison Water District to expand groundwater recharge facilities
With the help of Congressman David Valadao, the Arvin-Edison Water District will be expanding its groundwater recharge capacities. The $2 million project will include converting about 160 acres of farmland in the 22nd Congressional District into groundwater recharge facilities to help strengthen water sustainability in the region.
Read more
|
|
I'll be using this newsletter as a way to keep you updated on my work in Congress. Make sure to sign up for regular updates and follow my Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to keep up with my work.
|
|
|
|
|
David G.Valadao Member of Congress
|
|
|