~ California Secures Federal Assistance to Support Response to Sandy Fire in Ventura County

Ventura County, California - As the Sandy Fire continues to burn in Ventura County, Governor Gavin Newsom announced on Monday that California has secured a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to aid in the response efforts.

The fast-moving fire, which ignited on May 18, 2026 near Sandy Avenue, has already burned over 1,364 acres and is threatening several communities in Simi Valley. Evacuation orders are currently in effect for over 10,000 homes and an additional 3,500 homes are under evacuation warnings.

In a statement, Governor Newsom expressed his gratitude for the firefighters and first responders working tirelessly to protect lives and homes. He also urged residents in impacted areas to follow guidance from local officials.

The FMAG, provided through FEMA on a cost-share basis, will assist local, state, and tribal agencies responding to the fire by reimbursing them for 75% of their eligible fire suppression costs.

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Caroline Thomas Jacobs, Director of Cal OES (California Office of Emergency Services), emphasized their commitment to ensuring Ventura County has the necessary resources to combat the Sandy Fire. She also urged residents to stay vigilant during this heightened heat and fire weather period.

Residents are reminded to sign up for local emergency alerts and prepare a wildfire action plan including evacuation routes and a go-bag with essentials. For more information on fire safety and general preparedness, they can visit Ready.ca.gov.

In other recent news related to public safety in California, a superior court ordered the city of Huntington Beach to pay penalties amounting to $160,000 for repeated violations of state housing law. The city will also be required to pay an additional $50,000 per month starting in June.

Governor Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom also issued a statement on the passing of Rita Semel, a civic and interfaith leader who co-founded the San Francisco Interfaith Council. They praised her for bringing people together and promoting unity in the community.

Additionally, Governor Newsom announced several appointments, including Jonathan Klein as Executive Director of the Housing Development and Finance Committee. Klein, who has been the Founder and Principal of Community Finance Solutions, will bring his expertise to help address housing issues in California.

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