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Dear Friends and Second District Residents,
August brings with it a significant opportunity to pause and recognize the individuals who helped shape the foundation of our communities: our seniors. National Senior Citizens Day, observed on August 21, is a reminder of the decades of contributions our seniors have made in building our neighborhoods, raising families, strengthening local economies, and mentoring generations. Their service, wisdom, and perseverance continue to be essential threads in the fabric of Riverside County, and it is our responsibility to ensure they feel valued, heard, and supported.
In that spirit, I invite you to join us for the Third Annual Second District Senior Legacy Awards on Thursday, August 14, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. This event is dedicated to honoring the remarkable seniors in our community who continue to lead by example and make a positive impact. It is a moment to gather, celebrate, and express our appreciation in a meaningful way. If you have not yet reserved your seat, I encourage you to get your tickets today by visiting rivcodistrict2.org/events/supervisor-karen-spiegel-presents-third-annual-second-district-senior-legacy-awards.
As we look forward to that celebration, I also want to take a moment to reflect on all the work we accomplished in July, because every effort we make is grounded in the same goal: to serve you and build a better Second District. This past month was full of activity across the District, and my team and I remained fully engaged in both policy leadership and community outreach.
We began by recognizing June as Fatherhood Awareness Month during a Board of Supervisors meeting. This recognition, done in partnership with the Department of Child Support Services, underscored the critical role that fathers play in strengthening families. Supporting and celebrating responsible fatherhood is a necessary part of building stable, thriving communities, and I was proud to highlight the department’s ongoing work in that space.
Throughout the month, we also celebrated the growth and revitalization of our local business community. Our team joined the Corona Chamber of Commerce in welcoming back Rodrigo’s Mexican Grill following an exciting renovation. We helped celebrate the grand openings of Pollo Campero in Lake Elsinore, All-American Express Car Wash in Eastvale, and Circle City Tavern in Downtown Corona. These openings represent jobs, entrepreneurship, and new life in our local economy. In Jurupa Valley, we helped celebrate the expansion of We Kare Daycare, which opened its third location to meet the increasing need for quality childcare in our growing region. Our communities rely on strong small businesses and accessible services, and I will continue to advocate for the conditions they need to thrive.
The month also brought powerful moments of reflection and patriotism as we celebrated our Country's Independence Day. I attended the Concert for Heroes at Riverside National Cemetery, which remains one of the most moving annual events in our County. It is a solemn tribute to the men and women who gave their lives in service to this country and a powerful reminder of why we continue to work for a better, stronger future. The following day, I participated in the City of Corona’s annual Fourth of July Parade, a tradition I treasure as both a resident and your Supervisor
I also had the honor of delivering opening remarks at several meaningful events, including the kickoff of the Emprendedor@s Program in Corona. This eight-week, Spanish-language workshop series empowers new entrepreneurs with the tools to define and grow their businesses. Programs like this are critical to ensuring that all residents have access to opportunity, and I am grateful for the many partners who brought this program to life. Additionally, I addressed attendees at the Jurupa Valley Chamber of Commerce Board Installation and Community Awards Dinner, where we recognized the individuals and businesses whose contributions continue to uplift the City.
Community engagement was a top priority in July, and our team was proud to host Cookies and Conversation at the Corona Senior Center, where residents joined me to share their concerns, ideas, and local priorities. That kind of real-time feedback is invaluable to the work we do. Our team also attended the Good Morning Corona where Sheriff Bianco was the keynote speaker.
We continued to show up for youth and education, as well. At the Jamil Dada Character Excellence Youth Awards, we joined families and educators in honoring outstanding students who demonstrate leadership, perseverance, and integrity. I also had the opportunity to connect with young leaders during the County’s Youth Summit, where I reminded them that their voices matter and their ideas have the power to shape the future. These young people give me hope and remind me why our investment in their success is non-negotiable.
From the Boys & Girls of Southwest County reopening Alberhill Clubhouse in Lake Elsinore, which my office helped fund through $1.8 million in ARPA dollars, to the lively and inclusive Fit and Fun event hosted by the City of Lake Elsinore as part of Parks and Recreation Month, we celebrated programs and projects that directly enhance the quality of life for families across our region. Our office also joined the Lake Elsinore Run Club for a free 5K through Historic Downtown, a fun and energetic event that brought residents together through movement, music, and shared community pride.
In early July, some team members and myself traveled to Philadelphia to attend the National Association of Counties Annual Conference, where we joined thousands of county leaders from across the country to exchange ideas and solutions. Representing Riverside County on the national stage is not just an honor, it is an opportunity to bring back tools and best practices that can improve local governance and services right here at home.
Finally, during the Board of Supervisors meeting on July 29, we took time to recognize key contributors across Riverside County. We presented a proclamation in honor of Child Support Awareness Month. We celebrated the Office on Aging’s new designation as part of the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities. We also proclaimed August 12 as Jane Block Day in recognition of her lifelong advocacy for women and families, including her founding role in NORA (formerly RARCC). These actions reflect our ongoing commitment to uplifting the individuals and organizations that move Riverside County forward.
Additionally, if you are a resident of the Lake Elsinore or Lakeland Village community, I invite you to attend our upcoming Annual Lakeland Village Town Hall on Wednesday, August 27, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Lakeland Village Community Center, located at 16275 Grand Avenue in Lake Elsinore. This town hall is an excellent opportunity to hear updates from County department heads on local projects, public services, and issues that directly affect your community. Your voice matters, and your input helps shape how we prioritize and deliver services.
As you scroll through the rest of this newsletter, you will find detailed updates from the most recent Board of Supervisors meetings, news about available county services, and information about upcoming community events throughout the Second District. These include our upcoming Senior Legacy Awards as well as various National Night Out events hosted in cities across the District.
I encourage you to take the time to read through each section. Your engagement helps drive everything we do. Whether we are honoring public service, supporting small business, investing in our youth, or connecting directly with residents, our mission is to serve with integrity, transparency, and action. Thank you for allowing me to continue that mission on your behalf.
Warmly,
 Second District Unincorporated Communities Initiative: El Cariso Culvert Repair
Supervisor Spiegel secured $50,000 to fix damaged culverts under El Cariso Road, near Calle De Los Pinos, in the unincorporated community of El Cariso. These culverts were compromised during the 2024 Airport Fire and have since become a risk for collapse, flooding, and damage to nearby utilities and homes. This fix will protect residents and properties from future storm impacts and is being funded entirely through the Second District’s Unincorporated Communities Initiative (UCI) fund. This is a clear example of using discretionary funds to safeguard rural communities.
Hostettler Road Drainage Improvement Project and Temescal Wash Storm Drain Agreement
The Board approved over $1.4 million for major drainage work on Hostettler Road in Temescal Valley. During storms, water regularly floods this road, cutting off access and endangering drivers. This road also serves as a secondary evacuation route for the Horsethief Canyon community. The project will install new drainage culverts and reroute Elsinore Valley Municipal Water District pipes to fix the long-standing flooding issue. A full closure of Hostettler Road will be required for about two months during construction. Detours will be provided, and residents will still have local access. This investment addresses both public safety and disaster preparedness, ensuring reliable access during emergencies. To complement the Hostettler Road drainage work, the County entered into a funding agreement with the Riverside County Flood Control District to construct a new storm drain in Temescal Wash. Flood Control will provide $1.6 million to fund the project, which will significantly reduce chronic water overflow that plagues this area. This infrastructure is essential for improving safety and protecting homes in Horsethief Canyon and nearby communities.
Supporting Housing Stability and Job Opportunities Across Riverside County
The Board approved over $20 million in combined housing and workforce investments aimed at reducing homelessness, increasing housing access, and providing job training, especially for youth and vulnerable populations. Federal HUD funds will support emergency shelters, first-time homebuyer assistance, and repairs for low-income households. In contrast, state grants through the Homeless Housing, Assistance, and Prevention (HHAP) program will fund outreach, supportive housing, and system coordination. At the same time, Riverside County extended $1.2 million in Youth Opportunity Center funding to ensure young people in communities like the Second District continue receiving free career counseling, training, and employment support. Together, these actions reflect a coordinated effort to improve housing security and economic opportunity for residents across all districts.
Investing in Public Safety and Infrastructure to Protect Communities
The Board approved major investments to strengthen public safety and prevent infrastructure failures in key areas of the County. In Lake Elsinore, a new five-year, $116 million law enforcement contract ensures continued sheriff coverage, including the addition of a Motorcycle Deputy to improve traffic enforcement, an issue that’s drawn increasing community concern. Across Riverside County’s health facilities, a separate five-year, $50.7 million agreement will maintain a dedicated Sheriff’s security presence at hospitals and clinics, helping patients and staff feel safe as they access or provide care. The County also accepted a $650,000 federal homeland security grant to support emergency response planning, equipment, and training, bolstering readiness for events like wildfires, floods, and other large-scale threats.
Tackling the Opioid Crisis and Expanding Mental Health Employment Support
The Board approved over $20 million in behavioral health investments to address the opioid crisis and help individuals with psychiatric disabilities find meaningful employment. More than $18 million from opioid lawsuit settlements will fund overdose prevention programs, distribute naloxone (Narcan), support addiction treatment through Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), increase public education efforts, and improve how the County tracks opioid-related data. These programs will be implemented by several departments, including Public Health, Behavioral Health, Emergency Management, and Public Social Services. This means more community-based resources to prevent overdoses and support recovery. The Board also approved a separate three-year, $1.83 million agreement with the California Department of Rehabilitation to provide job training, vocational counseling, and personalized employment plans for people living with serious mental health conditions. Providers like Oasis Behavioral Health will deliver services in District 2 and other regions, helping more individuals gain the stability and independence that comes with employment.
Protecting Taxpayers and Supporting Local Veterans
The Board took action on two behind-the-scenes items that play a big role in keeping County operations running smoothly for residents. First, they approved a five-year, $1.75 million contract renewal with InfoSend Inc. to handle the printing and mailing of property tax statements. This ensures that homeowners and property owners receive accurate and timely notices, including tax bills, delinquent alerts, and ownership updates. On-time delivery helps prevent confusion, penalties, and legal complications. Additionally, in a separate vote, the Board also approved two state-mandated certifications that allow the County to receive reimbursement for running its Veterans' Services Office. These certifications unlock state funding that helps veterans apply for benefits, access healthcare, and avoid unnecessary Medi-Cal expenses by connecting them to federal resources. Together, these actions protect the financial interests of residents and ensure that the County can continue delivering essential services without relying on additional local tax dollars.
Vote-by-Mail Ballots for Tuesday, August 26 Special Election Now on the Way
Vote-by-mail ballots have been sent out for the Tuesday, August 26, 2025, Special General Election in Assembly District 63. Voters can return completed ballots by mail (no postage needed), in official drop boxes, or person at any vote center within the District by 8 p.m. on Election Day. Ballots must be postmarked by August 26 and received no later than September 2 to be counted.
Early voting at the Registrar of Voters office (2720 Gateway Dr., Riverside) is open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m., and on Election Day from 7 a.m.–8 p.m.
To register or update your information, visit registertovote.ca.gov by Monday, August 11. More info: www.voteinfo.net
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Board of Supervisors Honors Key Contributors Across Riverside County
From supporting families to celebrating trailblazing women and embracing age-friendly innovation, Riverside County’s Board of Supervisors spotlighted the people and programs shaping a stronger, more inclusive community during its July 29 meeting. Read more...
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Lake Elsinore Run Club Brings the Energy to Downtown
Supervisor Spiegel’s team hit the pavement alongside the Lake Elsinore Run Club for a lively 5K Social Run through Historic Downtown Lake Elsinore. Read more...
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Jurupa Valley Honors Its Champions at Chamber Board Installation and Awards Dinner
Supervisor Spiegel had the honor of delivering opening remarks at the Jurupa Valley Chamber of Commerce Board Installation and Community Awards Dinner, kicking off an evening dedicated to recognizing the people and businesses who keep the city moving forward. Read more...
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Eastvale Shines with the Grand Opening of All-American Express Car Wash
The Eastvale community came out in full force to celebrate the Grand Opening of All-American Express Car Wash, where the energy was high, the suds were flowing, and the community spirit was on full display. Read more...
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Boys & Girls Club of Southwest County Reopens Alberhill Clubhouse as a Beacon for Youth in Lake Elsinore
After years of closure due to water damage, the Boys & Girls Club of Southwest County is proud to announce that the Alberhill Clubhouse at Alberhill Community Park is officially back, and better than ever. Read more...
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Circle City Tavern Opens Its Doors, Ushering in a New Era for Historic Downtown Corona
The City of Corona celebrated a significant step forward in the revitalization of Historic Downtown with the grand opening of Circle City Tavern, the first business to launch at The Hub inside the newly renovated South Mall. Read more...
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Youth Summit Inspires Future Leaders Across Riverside County
Supervisor Spiegel joined the Annual Youth Summit retreat for a day filled with inspiration, connection, and future-focused dialogue alongside the Riverside County Youth Advisory Council. Read more...
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Inland Empire’s Public Service Champions Honored at 2025 IE ASPA Awards
The 2025 Inland Empire Chapter of the American Society for Public Administration (IE ASPA) Service Awards and Scholarship Banquet lit up the Victoria Club with well-deserved recognition for some of the region’s most committed public servants and promising future leaders. Read more...
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Movement, Inclusion, and Fun Shine at Lake Elsinore’s Fit in the Park Event
The A.R.I.S.E. Fit & Fun event at the Lake Community Center brought energy, smiles, and a strong sense of community to Lake Elsinore as part of the city’s Free Fit in the Park program. Read more...
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Pollo Campero Opens Its Doors in Lake Elsinore with Flavor and Flair
There’s a new flavor in town, and it’s already turning heads. Supervisor Spiegel’s staff had the pleasure of attending the Grand Opening and Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony for Pollo Campero in Lake Elsinore, a bold and flavorful new addition to the Second District. Read more...
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Fit Fam Corona Celebrates One Year of Health and Wellness
Supervisor Spiegel joined the Corona Chamber of Commerce to celebrate the first anniversary of Fit Fam Corona Health & Wellness Center, a local business dedicated to promoting health, connection, and community support. Read more...
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Morongo Band of Mission Indians Unveils New Fire Station to Strengthen Regional Safety
Supervisor Spiegel attended the grand opening and push-in ceremony for the new Morongo Fire Station No. 1, a milestone that reflects the Morongo Band of Mission Indians’ ongoing investment in public safety across the San Gorgonio Pass. Read more...
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Celebrating Youth Achievement at the Jamil Dada Character Excellence Awards
The District 2 Team joined community leaders at the March Field Air Museum to honor the remarkable accomplishments of local students at the annual Jamil Dada Character Excellence Youth Awards. Read more...
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Riverside County Participates in 2025 NACo Conference in Philadelphia
Supervisor Spiegel and her team attended the 2025 National Association of Counties (NACo) Annual Conference and Exposition in Philadelphia, where county leaders from across the nation gathered to share ideas and solutions. Read more...
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We Kare Daycare Expands to Jurupa Valley with Grand Opening Celebration
The District 2 Team joined the City of Jurupa Valley to celebrate the grand opening of We Kare Daycare’s newest location, marking a significant step forward in meeting the region’s growing demand for quality childcare. Read more...
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Community Leaders Gather for Good Morning Corona to Hear from Keynote Speaker Sheriff Chad Bianco
Supervisor Spiegel joined local leaders and residents at Good Morning Corona, where Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco provided key updates on countywide public safety efforts. Read more...
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Cookies, Conversation, and Community Insight at the Corona Senior Center
Residents gathered at the Corona Senior Center for “Cookies and Conversation with Supervisor Karen Spiegel,” a community-focused event that brought neighbors together to share priorities, concerns, and ideas directly with their elected representative. Read more...
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Emprendedor@s Program Launches in Corona
An evening of energy and innovation kicked off as Supervisor Spiegel delivered opening remarks at the launch of the Emprendedor@s Program in Corona. Read more...
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Concert Honors Fallen Heroes at Riverside National Cemetery
On the eve of Independence Day, a moving tradition unfolded once again at Riverside National Cemetery as the Concert for Heroes paid tribute to the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation. Read more...
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Celebrating in Style at Corona’s 4th of July Parade
Supervisor Spiegel proudly took part in Corona’s annual 4th of July Parade, a long-standing tradition she cherishes as both a resident and representative of the Second District. Read more...
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Rodrigo’s Mexican Grill Reopens with New Look in Corona
The Second District team joined the Corona Chamber of Commerce to celebrate the grand re-opening of Rodrigo’s Mexican Grill, marking the restaurant’s return following an impressive renovation. Read more...
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Riverside County Recognizes Fatherhood Awareness Month
At a Board of Supervisors meeting, the Second District joined fellow board members in recognizing June as Fatherhood Awareness Month, spotlighting the essential role fathers play in their children's lives. Read more...
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Soroptimist International of Corona
Soroptimist International of Corona is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of women and girls by providing access to education, mentorship, and programs that promote economic empowerment. Since its founding in 1947, this service organization, comprising dedicated businesswomen, has been an active force for good in both the local community and around the world. As part of a worldwide network of over 90,000 members, S.I. Corona upholds the meaning behind its name, “best for women,” by helping women and girls reach their full potential.
The organization’s efforts are highlighted by impactful programs such as Dreams and Decisions, a workshop focused on self-esteem and education for intermediate school girls, and Dream It, Believe It, Achieve It, a career readiness initiative for high school girls. S.I. Corona also provides scholarships and participates in the Live Your Dream award program, offering financial assistance and mentorship to female heads of household pursuing higher education. Additional partnerships with local schools, Inspire Life Skills Training, and Human Trafficking Intervention programs further reflect their deep commitment to empowering women and girls at every stage of life. Learn more...
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NOW RECRUITING: Boards, Committees & Commissions
Interested in getting involved with local Boards, Committees & Commissions within the Second District?
Now accepting applications for:
- Children and Families Advisory Committee
- Flood Control Commission
For more information, please visit https://rivcodistrict2.org/boards-committees-commissions
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 Board of Supervisors Meetings:
- August 5 - NO MEETING
- August 12 - NO MEETING
- August 19 - NO MEETING
- August 26 - 9:30 a.m. at 4080 Lemon St., 1st Floor, Riverside, CA 92501. Learn more...
Municipal/Community Advisory Council Meetings:
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Woodcrest MAC - NO MEETING. Learn more...
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Temescal Valley MAC - August 13 at 6:30 p.m. at The Tahoe Room at Trilogy at 24477 Trilogy Parkway, Temescal Valley, CA 92883. Learn more...
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Lakeland Village CAC - NO MEETING. Learn more...
 
 
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- National Senior Citizens Day - August 21
- Women’s Equality Day - August 26
- National Health Center Week - August 3 - August 9
- Children's Eye Health and Safety Month
- Child Support Awareness Month
- National Breastfeeding Month
- Psoriasis Awareness Month
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