Wasco authorizes exploratory application for California Jobs First catalyst funding to study regional workforce training model

The Wasco City Council authorized city staff to complete and submit an application for California Jobs First catalyst funds and to execute related grant agreements, the city said. The proposal is an exploratory, proof-of-concept project to study workforce training needs and to pilot a replicable model for training workers transitioning between regional industries.

Scott Herbert (presenting staff) said the county has allocated approximately $9 million among regional projects for proof-of-concept and feasibility work; individual catalyst awards are capped at $1.5 million at this stage. The northern region includes Delano, McFarland, Shafter and Wasco. The city's concept would examine using existing community facilities — such as library branch space or the Powell Building classroom — to provide basic skills, ESL, targeted industrial training, driver training and warehouse safety training.

Herbert described the request as the first, exploratory phase to gather data and define curricula, facilities and costs; the funds would be used for consultants, feasibility studies and outreach if awarded. Council members voiced support and asked staff to pursue the application aggressively, with Council Member Raya offering to seek local supervisor support.

Staff noted the immediate requirement for the application is to submit the proposal by the stated deadline; the grant would fund the study work that would answer questions about curriculum, facility space, staffing and operating costs. The recorded vote on the authorization was four ayes with Mayor Pro Tem Saldana absent.