Newsletter: August 2014 E-Newsletter
Statement
Dear Friend,
I wanted to provide you with a brief update on my work during the month of August as your Representative in Congress.
My number one goal is to provide the highest level of constituent services possible. If you need help with a federal agency, please do not hesitate to contact my district office.
It is an honor to serve you.
JULIA BROWNLEY
Member of Congress
Brownley Statement on President Signing VA Reform Bill
I'm pleased the President signed the VA reform bill into law this month. This legislation will provide much-needed additional resources to our veterans, including access, accountability, transparency, increased building capacity, and key provisions addressing military sexual trauma. While this bill does not address all of the problems at the VA, it is an important first step forward.
Brownley Tours Gold Coast Transit District
I had the opportunity to tour Gold Coast Transit District, which provides convenient and reliable, as well as environmentally responsible, public transportation services to over 375,000 people annually throughout the cities of Ojai, Oxnard, Port Hueneme, Ventura, and the unincorporated areas between the cities.
Brownley Announces More Than $600,000 for Ventura County Airports
I recently announced more than $600,000 in grants from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for infrastructure projects at the Camarillo and Oxnard airports. The Camarillo and Oxnard airports play an essential role in driving Ventura County's diverse economy.
Last year, I successfully fought to spare both regional airport contract towers from closure due to sequestration, and I am pleased that the FAA once again recognized the importance of the Camarillo and Oxnard airports in ensuring the safety and economic health of Ventura County. Camarillo Airport will receive $415,464 and Oxnard Airport will receive $227,169 for the rehabilitation of the apron pavement, which is necessary to maintain structural integrity of the pavement.
Brownley Tours AeroVironment Facilities in Ventura County
I had the unique opportunity to tour AeroVironment's facility in Ventura County facility to learn more about their cutting-edge unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV). Their light-weight UAVs run on alternative energy and are already aiding military personnel and law enforcement around America and across the world. I believe the federal government must be a partner in fostering innovation in aviation.
In Congress, I have been a strong supporter of funding for Department of Defense research, development, and procurement of unmanned-aerial vehicles, which provide a critical strategic advantage to our troops on the battlefield. I have also introduced the "Innovation, Research, and Manufacturing Act" (H.R. 3640) to improve and expand the research and development tax credit, which will help cutting-edge Ventura County companies, like AeroVironment.
Brownley Highlights Ventura County Start-Ups in the Latest Installment of Congress at Your Company
In my latest Congress at Your Company, I highlighted Ventura County's commitment to innovation by visiting a high-tech business incubator and three start-up companies. From Ventura Ventures Technology Center (V2TC), to The Trade Desk, Infratab, Inc. and Stratosphere Marketing Solutions, these fast-growing companies play a vital role in driving our local economy through their impressive feats of innovation and leadership.
I have been a strong supporter of lowering taxes for small business innovators so that they can grow and create jobs in Ventura County. I also support Small Business Administration programs that provide loans and other technical assistance to entrepreneurs.
Brownley Tours Hi-Temp Insulation, Inc.
This month, I had the opportunity to tour the Camarillo facilities of Hi-Temp Insulation, Inc., which is a designer, manufacturer, and installer of insulation products for the aerospace industry. Hi-Temp products are used by commercial companies, like Boeing and Airbus, as well as for military aircraft and tanks. Hi-Temp is a prime example of the vital role that local manufacturing plays in bringing innovation and jobs to Ventura County's diverse economy.
Brownley Meets with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to Discuss Ventura County Projects
I was pleased to meet with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, including the 60th Commander of the Los Angeles District, Colonel Kimberly M. Colloton, to discuss the ongoing dredging project at Channel Islands Harbor, as well as projects at Ventura Harbor, Matilija Dam, and Arroyo Conejo. I will continue to work closely with the Army Corps to monitor these projects and ensure that our harbors and waterways receive the proper maintenance and stewardship they deserve.
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