PG&E Drones Offer a New View
If you see drones in the sky near power lines, they are likely from PG&E’s new pilot infrared drone program.
PG&E pilots are now operating drones equipped with infrared and UV technology to detect potential issues before an outage occurs saying it is a game changer for their inspections by making their system safer, more reliable and cost-effective.
The new infrared technology helps pinpoint “hot spots” on the system – which often indicate damage that cannot be seen by the naked eye.
This is the third year of this pilot program. The drones can cover 3 to 5 miles worth of poles and powerlines a day and give inspectors a birds-eye view of any potential damage or wear and tear offering a better angle than looking from the ground or climbing a pole.
These drones and infrared cameras are only looking at PG&E electrical assets, like pole tops, conductors and insulators, not looking in your backyard, at your house or your family.
If you see a drone and a pilot near a power line and want to ask questions, PG&E asks you to wait until the drone has safely landed to approach.
Any PG&E pilot or contractor wears a high-visibility safety vest, hard hat and have credentials they’ll happily share.
These drone flights only happen during daylight hours and during favorable weather conditions.
Help Student Voter Outreach Project
The League of Women Voters of SLO County has launched the Student Voter Outreach Project, a new initiative to increase voter registration and turnout ahead of the November 2026 election. The project is run by Kate McHugh, a former communications intern, now serving as student voter outreach coordinator. She’ll build an outreach program for Cal Poly and Cuesta students.
In the coming months, the team will reach out to relevant community partners and expand in-person outreach. This includes boothing, canvassing, and presentations. The team will also build out digital outreach through social media and website content.
LWV SLOCO needs help. Do you have community connections that could support this work? Want to schedule an informational meeting to learn more about the project? Are you a business owner or nonprofit interested in spreading the word? Email Kate at studentvoteslo@lwvslo.org.
The Student Voter Outreach Project is aimed at students, but the information applies to all SLO County residents of voting age. Visit VOTE411.org to register to vote or check your voter registration. Remember, if you’ve moved or changed your name since the last election, you’ll need to re-register to vote!
For vote-by-mail drop box locations, polling places, candidate information, and more, visit lwvslo.org/vote.
Study Will Address Area Physician Shortage
San Luis Obispo County is no stranger to healthcare worker shortages. How do we change that situation?
Assemblymember Dawn Addis (D-Morro Bay) announced a $1 million appropriation in the 2026-27 California State Budget for Cal Poly to conduct a study evaluating long term solutions to address healthcare workforce shortages on the Central Coast.
“One of the most urgent needs across California is healthcare, and that starts with the ability to see a doctor,” said Addis in a news release. “Through numerous committee hearings, I have fought to secure funding that invests in increasing the physician workforce on the Central Coast, and I am proud that we are delivering for California, especially at a time when [bill] H.R. 1 is rolling back healthcare in ways we have not seen before.”
Based on input from healthcare providers and residents, this study will evaluate current physician shortages, barriers to recruiting and retaining healthcare providers, and future workforce needs. It will also examine the feasibility of creating a medical school campus on the Central Coast.
“Central California is fortunate to have exceptional healthcare providers, but the shortage of medical professionals remains a significant challenge for our region,” said Cal Poly President Jeffrey D. Armstrong. “Access to healthcare is critical to attracting and retaining talented individuals, supporting economic development and ensuring vibrant communities. We look forward to exploring solutions that help attract and retain healthcare providers in our region.”
In addition to the funding for Cal Poly, Addis secured funding to expand behavioral health services on the Central Coast, including for individuals living with severe schizophrenia.
Funding in the budget also includs the following local programs:
1. $5 million for CenCal Health, to oversee a new pilot program in San Luis Obispo that will provide treatment for individuals living with severe schizophrenia and anosognosia.
2. $2 million for Transitions Mental Health Association to recruit and retain behavioral health professionals serving individuals with severe mental illness in San Luis Obispo.
3. $2 Million for Central Coast Medical School Loan Repayment Program to help subsidize medical school tuition for students living on the Central Coast.
Send your news, community, and business briefs to EditorEBN@gmail.com. Be sure to include the who, what, why, where and when information along with a contact person.
