Since confirming the first oak tree infested with Goldspotted oak borers, another 20 oaks have been identified, according to Gregg Bratcher, Cal Fire unit forester on the Hill. While the apparent presence of the beetle is still far from the level of devastation it has inflicted in San Diego County, forest officials are still worried…

The Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association is leading the legal opposition to the state’s Fire Prevention Fee. The State Board of Equalization has begun replying to the fee’s challenges. In response to one local resident’s challenge and claim for refund the Board wrote, “the [Board of Equalization] will hold in abeyance any collection activity on this…