U.S. Representative Dr. Raul Ruiz’s widlfire funding bill passed the House of Representatives (251-169) before the holiday recess. Ruiz’s bill, which would change the way Congress funds the expenses to fight wildfires, was part of the $81 billion disaster-aid bill. This includes funds for victims of recent fires in both Northern and Southern California, as…

Fern Valley Water District directors discussed the timing of their second payment to CalPERS to prefund FVWD’s post-employment benefits last Friday. The board has planned to pay another $200,000 this fiscal year, which will reduce interest owed in future years. FVWD expects to save more than $20,000 annually, beginning next year, according to Victor Jimenez,…

According to California Highway Patrol Officer Mike Murawski, Kimberly Ann Young, 56 of Idyllwild, was traveling westbound on Highway 74 near McCall Park Road Sunday about 4 p.m when she lost control of her black Kia Forte. She hit a boulder and careened into a ravine. Young was arrested on suspicion of driving under the…