Congressman Jimmy Panetta

In this week's news roundup, another fire starts at the Vistra battery facility in Moss Landing, invasive beetles kill trees in the Santa Cruz Mountains, a large donation to Big Basin, and more.

A bill would reassert congress's role in trade, and a $6 million donation will fund a new interpretive center at Big Basin Redwoods State Park.

In this week's roundup of local news: the Timber Fire grows in Big Sur, leaders address immigration enforcement concerns, Monterey Car Week makes charitable donations, and more.

The Timber Fire in Big Sur has burned about 3,775 acres as of midday Wednesday and cut off access to a condor sanctuary. And, Central coast leaders are reaffirming support for immigrants in the face of changing federal policies.

The Timber Fire in Big Sur has exceeded 2,000 acres, with four zones now evacuated. And, Central Coast leaders continue to oppose offshore oil drilling.

New Leaf Energy is bypassing Santa Cruz County in its effort to seek approval for a new battery energy storage facility in Watsonville. For Monterey County Supervisor Glenn Church, who represents Moss Landing, that’s the worst-case scenario.

Central Coast Democratic Congressman Jimmy Panetta explains why he voted against the farm bill on Thursday. And, a state bill would offer safeguards for immigrant professors at California community colleges.

Monterey County wants to adopt a moratorium on new battery energy storage systems. And, local representatives condemn plans for offshore drilling and seabed mining in California.

Central Coast Democratic Rep. Jimmy Panetta faces backlash from pro-Palestine groups over his support of Israel during a Watsonville town hall.

Civics and service learning are getting a boost in the region. Plus, local leaders are speaking out against health cuts in the recent federal tax and spending bill.