Collaboration
We unite labor, agriculture, and business to find practical solutions.
Who we are
A coalition built on collaboration and commonsense.
CoLAB is a member-driven 501(c)(6) that protects Ventura County’s economy and quality of life through practical, locally informed advocacy.
Member-led
Non-partisan
Ventura County focused
Our purpose
Protect local jobs, farms, and communities.
- Translate complex policy into clear action.
- Align stakeholders before decisions are made.
- Secure practical outcomes for Ventura County.
Mission & values
A practical, people-first approach to policy.
We bring together leaders from agriculture, labor, and business to keep Ventura County resilient, competitive, and prepared for what is next.
Commonsense policy
We focus on workable regulations that protect jobs and working lands.
Data-driven advocacy
We bring research and expert input to every decision table.
Local resilience
We keep Ventura County competitive and prepared for what is next.
What we do
We show up early, with facts.
CoLAB monitors emerging regulations, convenes experts, and delivers clear guidance so members can act with confidence.
- Research and analysis across water, housing, energy, environment, and land use.
- Policy engagement through testimony, comment letters, and stakeholder meetings.
- Monthly WHEEL briefings that keep members aligned on fast-moving issues.
Our story
A track record of local leadership.
Key milestones that shaped the coalition and strengthened Ventura County’s voice.
2010
CoLAB founded
A coalition formed to respond to regulatory threats facing local industries.
2013
Foundation launched
A 501(c)(3) was created to fund education, research, and community programs.
2023
General Plan settlement
A collaborative agreement protected agriculture and clarified land-use policy.
2025
15 years strong
A growing member network across Ventura County and beyond.
Leadership
The people guiding the coalition.
A board and staff team representing Ventura County’s diverse industries and communities.
Executive Director
Louise Lampara
Leads coalition strategy, advocacy priorities, and member engagement.
Policy & Advocacy Coordinator
Brianne Whitcomb
Coordinates policy research, WHEEL briefings, and issue monitoring.
Officers
Chairman
Mark Mooring · Buon Gusto Farms
Vice Chairman
Patrick Loughman · Lowthorp Richards Attorneys
President
Bud Sloan · Sloan Ranches
Vice President
John Hecht · Sespe Consulting
Treasurer
Melinda Carmichael · Retired Wealth Advisor
Secretary
Lynn Gray Jensen · Jensen Design & Survey
Coalition at a glance
A broad network with a focused mission.
Our members span agriculture, labor, business, and community partners across Ventura County.
1,000+
Member organizations
28
Industries represented
15
Years of advocacy
Get in touch
Ready to connect?
We welcome questions, partnerships, and conversations about Ventura County’s future.