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CoLAB VC
Who we are

Ventura County’s coalition for labor, agriculture, and business policy.

CoLAB VC is a member-driven 501(c)(6) that protects Ventura County’s economy with local policy advocacy across housing, water, energy, environment, and land use.

Mission & history Contact CoLAB
Member-led Non-partisan Ventura County focused

Our purpose

Protect Ventura County jobs, farms, and communities.

  • Translate complex policy into clear action.
  • Align stakeholders before decisions are made.
  • Secure practical outcomes for Ventura County.
Meet our leadership

Mission & values

A practical, people-first approach to Ventura County policy.

We bring together leaders from agriculture, labor, and business to keep Ventura County resilient, competitive, and prepared for housing, water, energy, and land-use challenges.

Collaboration

We unite labor, agriculture, and business to find practical solutions.

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 and local context.

CoLAB monitors Ventura County regulations, convenes experts, and delivers clear guidance so employers, growers, and community leaders can act with confidence.

  • Research and analysis across housing, water, energy, environment, and land use.
  • Policy engagement through testimony, comment letters, and Ventura County stakeholder meetings.
  • Monthly WHEEL briefings that keep members aligned on fast-moving local issues.
Issues we track How we work

Our story

A track record of local leadership.

Key milestones that shaped the coalition and strengthened Ventura County’s voice.

See impact

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.

Full leadership

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.

Contact CoLAB Become a member