The Assembly Budget Subcommittee No. 4 on Climate Crisis, Resources, Energy, and Transportation convened on March 5, 2025, to discuss critical funding initiatives, including a significant focus on the dam removal program outlined in Proposition 4.

A key highlight of the meeting was the emphasis on the Matillaha Dam removal project in Ventura County. This project is considered a top priority by the agency involved and is integral to NOAA's recovery plan for the Southern Steelhead, a species in need of conservation efforts. The discussion underscored the importance of this initiative, which involves not only the removal of the dam but also necessary downstream work such as levee and bridge improvements, as well as land acquisition.

The meeting revealed that a dedicated project team is already in place in Ventura County to facilitate the planning and execution of this program. This proactive approach aims to ensure that all preparatory work is completed before the actual dam removal takes place, highlighting the project's significance in both ecological recovery and local infrastructure development.

Overall, the discussions at the meeting reflect a strong commitment to advancing environmental restoration efforts in California, with the Matillaha Dam removal project serving as a pivotal example of such initiatives.