Although the total Riverside County budget exceeds $5.5 billion, the Board of Supervisors has direct and authoritative control over less than 20 percent. For fiscal year 2018-19, which begins in less than a month, the “discretionary” portion of spending will be $799.5 million. Regardless of whether one looks at the total county budget, the general…

On Monday, Dec. 13, new statewide California mask mandates in indoor public places were announced as in effect from Wednesday, Dec. 15 to Jan. 15. As of press time, it was not clear how these mandatory measures apply to restaurants. Are restaurants exceptions? Or does the mandate apply to restaurants only until customers reach their…

Riverside County public health officials have planned an Idyllwild community forum to hear about residents’ health-related concerns and create a plan to address them, The meeting is from 6 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 14, at the Idyllwild Library. Participants will hear from county health officials about available programs and services, but the focus will…