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    Setting Brushfires of Freedom by Don Jans

    Oxnard: Public Protests Draconian Budget Cuts- City Backs Off Later; Greenlights Cannabis Rules; Hears Housing Budget;

    By George Miller

    Note: Meeting highlights were published Tuesday. This is the full version.

    The Oxnard City Council, at its five hour 6-4-19 open meeting, approved: direction to regulate cannabis manufacturing, testing and distribution; indicated they wanted to accelerate movement into cultivation and retailing of it (a change of direction); nearly no change budgets/strategies for the Housing Dept (city-owned housing) and Housing Commission (HUD-funded housing); objected to lack of action to get people off assisted housing (an annual ritual accomplishing nothing); Ramrodded 21 consent agenda items through with no debate at all,* including some taxes; streamlined/changed procedures for handling nuisance abatement and civil fines; 

    On a lighter note, the Council/City also celebrated: (LGBT) Pride month; Juneteenth (go to Plaza Park on 6-15!); Cheered Santa Clara High School Boys Basketball Team for Winning the CIF Southern Section Division 5AA and Advancing to the State’s Semi-Finals.

    Off agenda: public pushback on draconian budget cuts- especially fire station, PAC, Colonia Library, with a few alternative ideas; Strong allegations that Police/Fire benefit increases will cost 2-3X what the city claims.

    * These are discussed at daylong committee meetings that many say are long and at inconvenient houses for most working people.

    6-4-19 Council Meeting Event AGENDA, VIDEO

     

    A Wednesday 6-5-19 budget meeting was held. City backed off on some of the cuts of fire station, PACC, Colonia Library. It remains to be seen where the money will come from. AGENDA, VIDEO

     

    You don’t get to see the closed session part of the meeting:

    B- CLOSED SESSION (4:30 PM) (NEW ITEM)
    1. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – EXISTING LITIGATION (Government Code
    section 54956.9 (d)(1))
    (City Council)
    Name of case: Green Energy Holdings, LLC; Auto Fuels, Inc. v. City of Oxnard, et al.
    Ventura County Superior Court, Case Nos. 56-2015-00470344-CU-EI-VTA; 56-2018-00512103-
    CU-MC-VTA

    C-1. Community Development Department
    SUBJECT: Recovery of Nuisance Abatement Costs. (5/10/15)
    RECOMMENDATION: That the City Council:
    1) conduct a public hearing to consider objections to the cost report of the property owners whose
    property is to be assessed for nuisance abatement costs,
    2) approve the cost report, and
    3) direct the City Manager or designee to file a certified copy of the cost report with the Ventura
    County Auditor-Controller.
    Legislative Body: City Council
    Contact: Jeffrey Lambert, (805) 385-7882

    Approved unanimously 7-0

    C-2. Community Development Department
    SUBJECT: Recovery of Civil Citation Fines. (5/10/15)
    RECOMMENDATION: That the City Council:
    1. Conduct a public hearing to consider objections to the cost report of property owners whose
    property is to be assessed for civil citation fines;
    2. Approve the cost report; and
    3. Direct the City Manager or designee to file a certified copy of the cost report with the Ventura
    County Auditor-Controller.
    Legislative Body: City Council
    Contact: Jeffrey Lambert, (805) 385-7882x

    Approved unanimously 7-0

    E-1. SUBJECT: Presentation of a Proclamation Designating June 2019 as “Pride Month” in the City
    of Oxnard.

    50 year anniversary of Selma riots, which “trans” (transgender) people of color were involved with. 6 trans women of color murdered, life expectancy of trans is 35. Budget cuts to LGBT budget cuts, August 17 Promenade park Ventura is PRIDE celebration. Troubled by discrimination, inequity. Celebrate accomplishments of LGBT’s.

    E-2. SUBJECT: Presentation of a Proclamation Designating June 15, 2019 as the “29th Annual
    Juneteenth Celebration.”

    Angela Mitchell and Julie Dixon accepted the proclamation from the Mayor celebrating Juneteenth, which celebrated the anniversary of the Union Army announcing emancipation in Texas, two years after the Civil War ended.

    The entire city is invited to June 15 (10-5) celebration at Oxnard’s Plaza Park. The Emancipation proclamation was signed in 1863. On June 19, 1865. The Union Army informed Texans of it and it is now a celebratory day (Juneteenth)- black independence day.  It is a state holiday in Texas and Oklahoma.

    E-3. SUBJECT: Presentation of a Commendation to Santa Clara High School Boys Basketball Team for
    Winning the CIF Southern Section Division 5AA and Advancing to the State’s Semi-Finals.

     

    F. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA

    only 1 minute was offered to speak per the 23 speakers signed up.

    Martha Matta- From Wilson Senior Center, supporting  a person to be laid off- commending her and  underlining her importance.

    Peggy Rivera-  Glad budget process is almost over. “Stopping the bleeding” is actually “an artery cut off”- pain felt deeply, may lose critical  employees.  Thanks for hard work on the budget.

    Vince Stewart- New Chair of Community Action- Ventura County. 600  Richmond Ave.-invited all to tour the facility. They help with rent/utility assistance, Foodshare. 9/14 is Jazz Festival at Oxnard Beach Park See in our events section).

    JR Ruiz- Being discriminated. Runs a religious radio station- being discriminate against because of this. Claims false police reports against him- dishonest police. Statewide problem.

    Marvin Booth- Freemont North. Works at PACC. Wrong decision to close it. 50 year institution.  Cut back,. not close. 1400 people there at one event last week.

    Jackie Tedeschi- Southbank Chair and INCO Chair.-

    Ray Blutel- MOU costs are misleading. Data wrong. Actual cost is about 14MM, not $5MM as stated by the city.

    Martin Jones- Article 1 sec 2-3 of CA Constitution violated by Council. Sworn to defend- have violated.

    Joyce Chavez- Born in Colonia- please keep Colonia Library open. Pleasant Valley Road fire station needs to be kept open.  Flammable mobile homes in the area.

    Miguel Rodriguez- Pres of Oxnard New Life – oldest Latino Civil Rights org. Keep fire station open, do away with fire academy. Says it is a civil right.

    Rick Casternioro- Concerned about cuts- library., fire dept? South side needs more service. Schools in Colonia have lowest scores. Highest language skill deficits in Colonia.

    Cyntia Fallas- Deputy Director of LULAC- same concerns. How cuts made, how use Measure O to salvage the situation. Keep fire station open.  Compromising safety. How many of management actually live in city

    Angel Garcia- thanks to Dan &   6-6 East Village at artisan Community Park 6 pm elections to be held.

    Pat Brown-  City meeting listing. Planning Committee engage was put in wrong week. Is actually this Thursday, on downtown redevelopment.

    Sofia Vega- Here for several neighborhoods-09 most south neighborhoods)- Concerned about fire station 62 closure.

    Mayor Flynn- Reminded all of Wednesday 6 PM budget meeting

    Kelly Christian- Risky for safety and lawsuits to close fire station. Public safety should come first.

    Israel Ermondez- Opposes fire station closure inmost heavily populated areas. Take money from elsewhere, such as expensive fire academy and fighting fires in other cities.

    Fardian Leon- Underserved, can’t get rid of fire station.

    ??- Don’t close fire station 62.

    Celeste Gallino– Same. Everyone deserves fire protection.

    Jeff Morloski- Oxnard Fire dept- Putting a paramedic  squad in place of afire engine is reckless.

    Marcello Martinez- Worried about fire station closure. Worried for our children, please keep it open.

    Phillipe Secuo Guzman & wife- Same

    Alicia Percell- Recent MOU’s misstated actual cost $5MM vs $15MM. OPO benefits increased but publication says they decreased. Showed several examples,

    Aaron Starr- Decisions made on MOU’s are hurting us. These 3 contracts will cost $10MM,. Staff gave you wrong information. Can’t make good decisions with such info.

     

    A debate ensued on whether the MOU amount issue could be discussed immediately:

    Tim Flynn- staff please respond promptly. Asked City Atty Fischer if it is a violation of Brown Act to discuss this now. Suggests discussing it at tomorrow’s budget meeting.

    City Mgr. Nguyen-  Clarifications

    Perello- pressed to discuss it now in City Mgr. Report.

     

    G. REPORT OF CITY MANAGER/EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR/SECRETARY

    Mayor Pro Tem Ramirez- Thanks to Supv Zaragosa for getting some Colonia Library funding. Wants support for census hard to count people in census. There is fear in anti-immigrant administration. Downtown homeless situation horrible problem for homeless and community.  Thanks to Mr. Ramirez for his ideas. APCDC meeting on odor control at wastewater plant and paper recycling plant. City making an effort to address.

    MacDonald- Gold Coast transit and VC Trans meetings this week. Today near Oxnard and Wooley in an industrial area is living  a homeless person. an abatement crew was chased away by a homeless person with a chain, who set the lot on fire before leaving. Simply  “homesteading” someone’s property and chasing off authorities is unacceptable.  Bought $9000 in G.D., tickets for PACC. Give back. 100’s died in one day on Day so people would be able to speak

    Perello- Public is feeling pain (budget). Council has more info than public and must make a decision. re: Starr’s question on inaccurate MOU info- must be addressed.  People leave meeting after their issue is addressed- miss the rest of the meeting.

    Madigal- Insect festival was very successful- enjoyed eating insects. Thanks for speakers  and helpers on Colonia Library.  Thanks to VC Supv. Zaragosa for helping Library at this mornings VC Supv. meeting.  Trinity Church groundbreaking is on Wednesday.  Problems with speeding/accidents,

    Basua- Tx to tonight’s speakers. Met with firefighters meeting/tour. Met with SEIU members, Went to insect festival, ate insects, may not repeat.

    Lopez- Spoke in Spanish- Flynn asked for an English translation (don’t be afraid to come- we have translations for you. Come to budget meeting).

    Flynn- Insect Festival was fascinating. He didn’t eat anything, had steak later instead.Thanks to Lopez for appeal to get more people involved in budget process.  Clarified previous statement about Council having more info. they are hired to make decisions.  Must listen to public pleas, all Council persons listening, studying data.

     

    K. INFORMATION/CONSENT AGENDA

    21 items, some very important, Consent Agenda items are voted on without discussion unless items are pulled by a council member.

    #15,  Perello recused, from 13

    #2 Flynn- Re: CAG appointments. to Community relations Commission and Downtown Design Commission- what about delays in background checks? City Clerk- some background checks (HR, Police and DOJ involved. DOJ actually does the checks) held up, applications pending. Library board  has insufficient applicants (only 2 of 7 needed). Feels that Nguyen is explaining issues better in agenda.

    Public Comment

    Pat Brown- Re: #21 Rice Ave/5th St. Grade separation project. Was a big train accident there- woke up county, city, state to such a dangerous intersection. Promised to have diesel engines in front, but that isn’t always happening- less safe. Also need to fix terrible Rice Ave pavement- make it suitable for heavy trucking- will get worse when Rice becomes PCH.

    Vote- Unanimous to approve except Perello’s recusal on one item. 9-0 (2 Housing Commssioners voted too on relevant items)

    1. City Clerk Department
    SUBJECT: Approval of Minutes.
    RECOMMENDATION: That the City Council approve the minutes of the May 21, 2019 regular
    meeting as presented.
    Legislative Body: City Council
    Contact: Michelle Ascencion, (805) 385-7805

    2. City Clerk Department
    SUBJECT: Appointment of Citizen Advisory Group (“CAG”) Members.
    RECOMMENDATION: That the Mayor, with the concurrence of the City Council, appoint
    Councilmember Madrigal’s nominee to the Community Relations Commission, and Mayor Flynn’s
    nominee to the Downtown Design Review Committee.
    Legislative Body: City Council
    Contact: Michelle Ascencion, (805) 385-7805

    3. Community Development Department
    SUBJECT: Seventh Amendment for Joranda Marketing Inc. (dba Jan-Pro Cleaning Systems Central
    Coast) Trade Services Agreement No. A-7846 and Budget Appropriation for Janitorial Services at
    the Oxnard Transit Center.
    RECOMMENDATION: That City Council:
    1 Approve and authorize the Mayor to execute the Seventh Amendment to Trade Services
    Agreement No. A-7846 with Joranda Marketing Inc. dba Jan-Pro Cleaning Systems Central Coast,
    to increase the amount from $530,193 not to exceed $557,390 (an increase of $27,197) and to
    extend the expiration date to July 1, 2019, for janitorial services at the Oxnard Transit Center at 201
    East Fourth Street; and
    2. Approve the appropriation of $27,197 for an additional two months of janitorial services at the
    Oxnard Transit Center (Account No. 213-3110-803-8209).
    Legislative Body: City Council
    Contact: Jeffrey Lambert, (805) 385-7882

    4. Finance Department
    SUBJECT: Amendment to External Auditor Agreement for Measure O Fund agreed-upon
    procedures for FY 2017-18 and FY 2018-19.
    RECOMMENDATION: That the City Council approve and authorize the Mayor to execute the
    Eighth Amendment to Agreement A-7819 with Eadie + Payne, LLP, to increase the amount by
    $22,000, for a total amended not-to-exceed amount over 5 years of $1,997,910 for FY 2017-18 and
    FY 2018-19 agreed-upon procedures for Measure O Fund.
    Legislative Body: City Council
    Contact: Kevin Riper, (805) 385-7475

    5. Housing Department
    SUBJECT: Housing Authority Investment Policy and Investment Portfolio Guidelines.
    RECOMMENDATION: That the Board of Commissioners of the Housing Authority of the City of
    Oxnard (“Authority”) adopt a resolution adopting an investment policy and investment portfolio
    guidelines for the Housing Authority of the City of Oxnard for FY 2019-2020.
    Legislative Body: Housing Authority Board
    Contact: Emilio Ramirez, (805) 385-8094

    6. Police Department
    SUBJECT: Change in Accounting Practices for Phoenix Group Contract.
    RECOMMENDATION: That the City Council approve a budget appropriation for the current fiscal
    year (2018-19) that recognizes:
    1. A $280,066 increase in General Fund revenues (101-2101-556-7402) due to a change in the
    accounting process of collecting parking citations, civil citations, and animal safety citations; and
    2. A $280,066 increase in General Fund expenditures (101-2101-802-8202 Patrol and 101-2106-
    802-8202 Animal Safety) due to a change in the accounting process of remitting payments to
    Phoenix Group (vendor) for its services and the County of Ventura Auditor’s Office.
    Legislative Body: City Council
    Contact: Scott Whitney, (805) 385-7624

    7. Police Department
    SUBJECT: Amendment to Agreement with Vigilant Solutions LLC.
    RECOMMENDATION: That the City Council approve and authorize the Mayor to execute the
    First Amendment to Agreement 7907-17-PO with Vigilant Solutions LLC., to increase the amount
    by $275,000 to a total of $425,000 over five years for the purpose of adding nine additional, three
    camera Mobile LPR (License Plate Reader) systems. (Public Safety Committee approved 3-0)
    Legislative Body: City Council
    Contact: Scott Whitney, (805) 385-7624

    8. Police Department
    SUBJECT: MOUs with School Districts.
    RECOMMENDATION: That the City Council approve and authorize the City Manager to execute
    the Cost Sharing Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the City and 1) the Rio School
    District, 2) Hueneme School District, 3) Oxnard School District and 4) Oxnard Union High School
    District for the School Resource Officer (SRO) Program. These MOUs set forth guidelines between
    the listed school districts and the Oxnard Police Department (OPD) to ensure an understanding of
    the goals of the SRO program. The various districts reimburse the OPD for a portion of the
    personnel costs associated with this program. These MOUs establish a 3-year term with each
    school district where the reimbursement rate will remain the same throughout fiscal years 2019
    through 2022. (Public Safety Committee approved 3-0)
    Legislative Body: City Council
    Contact: Scott Whitney, (805) 385-7624

    9. Public Works Department
    SUBJECT: Approval of First Amendment to Agreement No. A-8022 with MNS Engineers, Inc.
    RECOMMENDATION: That the City Council approve and authorize the Mayor to execute the
    First Amendment to Agreement No. A-8022 with MNS Engineers, Inc., increasing the agreement
    value from $250,000 to $400,000 and amending the language in Section 21 (Hold Harmless,
    Defense and Indemnity) of the agreement.
    Legislative Body: City Council
    Contact: Rosemarie Gaglione, (805) 385-8055

    10. Public Works Department
    SUBJECT: Approval of First Amendment to Agreement No. A-8013 with Encompass Consultant
    Group, Inc.
    RECOMMENDATION: That the City Council approve and authorize the Mayor to execute the
    First Amendment to Agreement No. A-8013 with Encompass Consultant Group, Inc., increasing the
    agreement value from $250,000 to $400,000 and amending the language in Section 21 (Hold
    Harmless, Defense and Indemnity) of the agreement.
    Legislative Body: City Council
    Contact: Rosemarie Gaglione, (805) 385-8055

    11. Public Works Department
    SUBJECT: Approval of Third Amendment to Agreement No. A-8231 with M6 Consulting for
    Engineering, Professional, and Technical Services.
    RECOMMENDATION: That the City Council approve and authorize the Mayor to execute a Third
    Amendment to Agreement No. A-8231 with M6 Consulting to:
    (1) Expand the Scope of Services to include engineering and other technical services;
    (2) Extend the agreement term to February 28, 2021; and
    (3) Increase the value of the Agreement from $200,000 to $450,000 for ongoing services.
    Legislative Body: City Council
    Contact: Rosemarie Gaglione, (805) 385-8055

    12. Public Works Department
    SUBJECT: Approval of Third Amendment to Agreement No. A-8102 with Interwest Consulting
    Group, Inc.
    RECOMMENDATION: That the City Council approve and authorize the Mayor to execute a Third
    Amendment to Agreement No. A-8102 with Interwest Consulting Group, Inc. to:
    (1) Extend the Agreement term to June 30, 2020 and
    (2) Increase the value of the Agreement from $239,920 to $419,920 for ongoing services.
    Legislative Body: City Council
    OXNARD CITY COUNCIL OXNARD FINANCING AUTHORITY HOUSING AUTHORITY
    OXNARD COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISION SUCCESSOR AGENCY
    June 4, 2019 PAGE 6
    Contact: Rosemarie Gaglione, (805) 385-8055

    13. Public Works Department
    SUBJECT: Agreement No. 8125 with Pacific Coast Land Design, Inc. for performing community
    engagement and design work for the La Colonia Green Alleys Project.
    RECOMMENDATION: That the City Council award and authorize the Mayor to execute an
    Agreement (A-8125) with Pacific Coast Land Design, Inc. in the amount of $244,252.30 to perform
    community engagement and design work for the La Colonia Green Alleys Project. (Public Works
    and Transportation Committee approved 3-0.)
    Legislative Body: City Council
    Contact: Rosemarie Gaglione, (805) 385-8055

    14. Public Works Department
    SUBJECT: Award Agreement No. 8141 for Mandalay Bay Bridge and Edison Canal Bridge
    Rehabilitation Plans, Specifications & Estimate.
    RECOMMENDATION: That the City Council:
    1. Award and authorize the Mayor to execute Agreement No. 8141 in the amount of $201,914 with
    Dokken Engineering for design of the Mandalay Bay Bridge Rehabilitation Project 133113 and
    Edison Canal Bridge Rehabilitation Project 133114; and
    2. Approve $10,000 for project contingency for the Mandalay Bay Bridge Rehabilitation and
    $10,191 for the Edison Canal Bridge Rehabilitation Project; and
    3. Approve an appropriation of $13,708 from the Street Maintenance Fund (105) for the Mandalay
    Bay Bridge Rehabilitation (Project 133113).
    (Public Works and Transportation Committee approved 3-0.)
    Legislative Body: City Council
    Contact: Rosemarie Gaglione, (805) 385-8055

    15. Public Works Department
    SUBJECT: Fiscal Year 2019-2020 Landscape Maintenance Districts – Initiation of Proceedings,
    Declaration of Intention to Levy and Collect Assessments, and Scheduling of Public Hearing.
    RECOMMENDATION: That the City Council:
    1. Adopt a resolution initiating proceedings for the annual levy and collection of assessments for
    Fiscal Year 2019-2020 within the City’s Landscape Maintenance Districts; and
    2. Adopt a resolution declaring intention to levy and collect assessments for Fiscal Year 2019-2020
    within the City’s Landscape Maintenance Districts pursuant to the Landscaping and Lighting Act of
    1972.
    (The Public Works and Transportation Committee approved 3-0.)
    Legislative Body: City Council
    Contact: Rosemarie Gaglione, (805) 385-8055

    16. Public Works Department
    SUBJECT: Special Tax Levy for Community Facility Districts No. 1 and No. 2 (Westport at
    Mandalay Bay).
    RECOMMENDATION: That the City Council, acting as legislative body for Community Facilities
    Districts (CFD) No. 1 and 2:
    1. Adopt a resolution (Attachment 1) setting a special tax rate within CFD No. 1 (Westport at
    OXNARD CITY COUNCIL OXNARD FINANCING AUTHORITY HOUSING AUTHORITY
    OXNARD COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISION SUCCESSOR AGENCY
    June 4, 2019 PAGE 7
    Mandalay Bay) for FY 2019-2020; and
    2. Adopt a resolution (Attachment 2) setting a special tax rate within CFD No. 2 (Westport at
    Mandalay Bay) for FY 2019-2020.
    (Public Works and Transportation Committee approved 3-0.)
    Legislative Body: City Council
    Contact: Rosemarie Gaglione, (805) 385-8055

    17. Public Works Department
    SUBJECT: Special Tax Levy for Community Facility Districts No. 3 and No. 4 (Seabridge at
    Mandalay Bay).
    RECOMMENDATION: That the City Council, acting as the legislative body of Community
    Facilities District (CFD) No. 3 and Community Facilities District (CFD) No. 4:
    1. Adopt a resolution (Attachment 1) setting a special tax rate within CFD No. 3 (Seabridge at
    Mandalay Bay) for FY 2018-19; and
    2. Adopt a resolution (Attachment 2) setting a special tax rate within CFD No. 4 (Seabridge at
    Mandalay Bay) for FY 2018-19.
    (Public Works and Transportation Committee approved 3-0.)
    Legislative Body: City Council
    Contact: Rosemarie Gaglione, (805) 385-8055

    18. Public Works Department
    SUBJECT: Adopt a Resolution Authorizing the Special Tax Levy for Community Facilities District
    No. 5 (Riverpark).
    RECOMMENDATION: That the City Council, acting as the legislative body of Community
    Facilities District (CFD) No. 5:
    1. Adopt a resolution setting a special tax rate within CFD No. 5 (Riverpark) for FY 2019-2020
    (Attachment A); and
    2. Authorize the Special Districts Manager to execute an agreement for Billing of Direct
    Assessments (Attachment B) with the Ventura County Auditor-Controller to provide the service of
    placement of direct assessments on the Ventura County Secured Tax Roll.
    (Public Works and Transportation Committee approved 3-0.)
    Legislative Body: City Council
    Contact: Rosemarie Gaglione, (805) 385-8055

    19. Public Works Department
    SUBJECT: Special Tax Levy for Community Facilities District No. 2000-3 (Oxnard
    Blvd./Highway 101 Interchange).
    RECOMMENDATION: That the City Council, acting as the legislative body of Community
    Facilities District No. 2000-3 (CFD No. 2000-3), adopt a resolution (Attachment A) setting a
    special tax rate within CFD No. 2000-3 (Oxnard Boulevard/Highway 101 Interchange) for Fiscal
    Year 2019-2020. (The Public Works and Transportation Committee approved 3-0.)
    Legislative Body: City Council
    Contact: Rosemarie Gaglione, (805) 385-8055

    20. Public Works Department
    SUBJECT: Statewide Park Development and Community Revitalization Program Grant Application.
    RECOMMENDATION: That City Council adopt resolutions authorizing the City Manager to
    submit an application for $8,500,000 in Statewide Park Development and Community
    Revitalization Program grant funds for the Campus Park Activation Project.
    Legislative Body: City Council
    Contact: Rosemarie Gaglione, (805) 385-8055

    21. Public Works Department
    SUBJECT: Approve Grant Fund Transfer, Allocations, and Contract Amendments to Rice Avenue
    at Fifth Street Grade Separation Project.
    RECOMMENDATION: That the City Council approve and authorize the Mayor to execute
    the following:
    1. Transfer of $12,406,000 Senate Bill 1 (SB1) Trade Corridor Enhancement Program (TCEP) grant
    funds from Fund 181 (State Gas Tax) to Fund 189 (TCEP);
    2. A first amendment to Caltrans Cooperative Work Agreement No. 07-5065 upon receipt,
    identifying $1,400,000 of SB1 TCEP grant for right-of-way (ROW) engineering;
    3. A first amendment to WKE, Inc. Agreement A-8094, adding $490,075 and adding subconsultant,
    Group Delta, Padre & Associates;
    4. Authorize future changes to sub-consultants by the Public Works Director; and
    5. Unappropriate $23,000 from Fund 275 (Federal Railroad Administration Railroad Safe
    Transportation of Energy Products) transportation grant.
    (Public Works and Transportation Committee approved 3-0.)
    Legislative Body: City Council
    Contact: Rosemarie Gaglione, (805) 385-8055

    All of the above Consent agenda items approved.

    L 1. Housing Department
    SUBJECT: Fiscal Year 2019-20 Community Development Block Grant, HOME Investment
    Partnerships, and Hearth Emergency Solutions Grant Annual Action Plan Funding
    Recommendations. (15/20/25)
    RECOMMENDATION: That the City Council:
    1. Conduct a public hearing to receive and consider public comments regarding the Plan Year 2019
    Annual Action Plan funding recommendations of the seventh and final year of the 2013-2019
    Consolidated Plan;
    2. Approve the 2019 Annual Action Plan with final recommended use of funds for the three
    entitlement grants, Community Development Block Grant, HOME Investment Partnerships grant
    and the Hearth Emergency Solutions Grant;
    3. Authorize the City Manager to make any changes to the Annual Action Plan as directed by the
    City Council, including amending any budget appropriations approved by the City Council and
    requiring amendment to reflect the additional federal funding received;
    4. Authorize the City Manager to execute the required applications, certifications, and other
    pertinent documents for the submission of the Annual Action Plan to the U.S. Department of
    Housing and Urban Development;
    5. Authorize the City Manager to execute agreements and sign all agreements for the
    implementation of the Annual Action Plan including subrecipients, interdepartmental, and
    intradepartmental agreements; and
    6. Authorize the City Manager to execute, from time to time, subsequent Annual Action Plan
    OXNARD CITY COUNCIL OXNARD FINANCING AUTHORITY HOUSING AUTHORITY
    OXNARD COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMISION SUCCESSOR AGENCY
    June 4, 2019 PAGE 9
    administrative adjustments as authorized by the Citizen Participation Plan.
    Legislative Body: City Council
    Contact: Emilio Ramirez, (805) 385-8094

    A summary of the plan starts on page 586 of the agenda. It’s about $2.5MM plus unspent money, totalling $3.4MM  total expenditures (includes prior year unprogrammed funds of about $800K plus $200K from another source)Emphasis is on low income, homes and natural adversity housing, fire protection and other services.

    City engages 3rd party public service providers. commissions and staff help determine how to spend the money, such as for  Boys and Girls Club, OPD and other service providers.

     

    The Home Investment Partnership program provides for new construction, rental assistance and homebuyer assistance 10% is allocated for admin. Only one application was received.  City is presenting a change of design in the home program. Housing development not yet mature enough to apply for the funds. Need a complete pro forma development. So a fund will be set up for thoughtful applications when they are prepared.

    $1.6MM for affordable housing plus $400K for down payment assistance.  Hoping for a project per year. Denied Cabrillo application.

    Emergency Solutions Grant- to respond to homelessness. $242K. total available. All applicantions received are proposed. Details are in agenda materials.

    Public Comment

    Vickie Odle- With VC Ombudsman Program. Thanks for Oxnard CDBG funding for long term care  1720 live in assisted facilities. Provided 400+ visits in Oxnard. These people are vulnerable and at risk. This group monitors and assists them with 50 highly trained volunteers. Most have no friends or family. Most are on Medicaid (MediCal?). Services are free to subjects, confidential.

    Council Comments

    Madrigal- How many orgs applied, denied? Response: 33 applications. 6 not funded. Madrigal: Is the city free to use it in any way they want or specific? Dir. Ramirez- CDBG must be used for national goals and to help a low income person or neighborhood, reducing slums/blight.  Nguyen- must use for the purpose you applied for.

    Basua- Some funds not programmed in prior years? Why? How long do you have. Emilio- don’t know why. Some funds up to 4 years old.  Haven’t lost any funds of these.

    Ramirez- appreciate your thoughtful presentation. Carnegie was turned down- for what category? Dir. Ramirez- $150K for wheelchair lift- couldn’t comply. Submit application when/if appropriate. Ramirez- For Colonia Boxing Gym? Is this a continuation. Is it for staff or what?  Dir. Ramirez- for programs and it is a recurring application. Kingdom center getting allocation for Homeless system.

    Perello- Some nursing homes terrible. Some people feel lost and alone. What do you mean money is going to you? Dir. Ramirez- Not enough applications to use all money. We operate city homeless programs. $110K  would be allocated to city’s homeless programs. Perello- What are the  3 national objectives? Emili- benefit lo income, elimination slum/blights, respond to natural disaster. Perello- What is Housing Authority vs  Housing dept? First is a separate body, second is City of Oxnard. Housing Authority is state – funded by HUD. 2 bodies, 2 governing structures.

    Lopez- What about Colonia Boxing Gym? If Gym closed, do we appropriate money? Ramirez- this is for operator of Boxing Gym. Community Svces Director Terrel Harrison- If gym closed, no place to go. except maybe PAL Boxing Center.  Dir. Ramirez- Money is for the boxing gym. If closed, money must be reprogrammed. Asst City Mgr. Ashley Golden- Gym would not be closed, just reduced hours, services.

    Flynn- do we have a Section 8 home ownership program? Emilio- no.  Flynn solicited info from Dir. Ramirezon the high level of civic engagement he got while in Riverside- much higher than Oxnard.

    Perello- what about veterans? I recommend more help to them.

    Several officials commented on how rapidly the new Housing Director Emilio Ramirez has come up to speed and was obviously on top of his materiel.

    Approved unanimously

     

    L-2. Community Development Department
    SUBJECT: Planning & Zoning Permit No. 19-580-03 (Zoning Text Amendment – ZTA) –
    Amendments to Chapters 11 and 16, of the Oxnard City Code (OCC) Pertaining to Manufacturing,
    Testing, and Distribution of Cannabis. (20/15/10)
    RECOMMENDATION: That the City Council:
    1. Following the public hearing, approve the first reading by title only and waiving further reading an
    Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Oxnard adding Article XVI to Chapter 11 and amending
    Chapter 16 of the Oxnard City Code to permit cannabis manufacturing, testing, and distribution.
    2. Adopt a resolution approving the live scan procedure to adopt an Originating Agency
    Identification (ORI) number to permit the City to obtain both state and federal (FBI) criminal
    histories for the regulation of cannabis applicants.
    Legislative Body: City Council
    Contact: Jeffrey Lambert, (805) 385-7882

    Director turned presentation over to Kathleen Mallory  Cannabis Mfg., testing  and distribution ordinance. retail. Cultivation.

    8 retailers, 8 mfg, 3 distributors, 1 testing lab, 2 cultivators.  Could easily accommodate more. Areas of city were specified (see map in agenda package)

    Tim Camardi of HTDL Companies. Testing labs ae used by state to enforce quality. Firewalled off,licensed by state, ISO certification. Must destroy noncompliant batches.

    Distributiion- Able tyo transport between licensed cannabis facilities in appropriate vehicles- farm to lab, processor, distributor, retailer/ Also collect taxes (10% cultivation tax). Appropriate security and documentation required,. Do not deliver to final consumer.

    Application, selection, screening, final approval to submit application.  Annual review, appeals permitted,. Not transferable. Need offer of community benefit. Subsequent conflicting uses would not require the cannabis business to close.

    Mallory: Fire Dept and police inspection required.

    Public Comments

    Joyce Chavez- not there

    Chrsi Eggar- Of Iconic Farms, a cannabis company. Retail market space missing. Excise tax is not main benefit. Vertically integrated professional cannabis operation.

    Alex Kuzusian- CEO of Lotus. Do animal healing via cannabis. Will bring in jobs, taxes and overall contribution to society.

    Jeff Kroll- (see our article on him)- of Shangrila Co-op.  a lot of moving parts to this. Still learning more about state regulations. About 75% of cities not participating, which is boosting the black market. Wants well defined structure, policies.

    Tenisor Pena- AQL testing labs- 20 years experience. In 9 countries- in Oxnard 7 years. Want testing license.  Well paid hi-tech jobs. University connections. Testing here will bring in more companies. A low profile business. ISO 17025 accreditation (an international quality standard).

    Pat Brown- Brought up at INCO meeting. Objects to some of the retail locations proposed. She represents neighborhood east of Oxnard Boulevard. 5 Points and 5th and Oxnard Boulevard or anywhere near that is objectionable. Problem with Homeless in the area.

    Unhed (Angel) Garcia- Learned a lot about Pt. Hueneme of taxation of cannabis. Manufacturing cannabis is important. Oxnard dispensaries might hurt Pt. Hueneme economy. Perhaps Oxnard should focus on manufacturing and Pt. Hueneme on retail..

    Jackie Tedeschi- INCO Chair. Thanks to Kathleen Mallory and Jeff Lambert for meeting with them on cannabis.

    Coiuncil/Staff Comments

    Nguyen- Permits run with applicant, not the land. If a school or other conflicting use moved in close by, it would not force the cannabis facility to close.

    Perello- Need to address aspects of cannabis business not addressed here. What is value of incoming trucks- violence/theft potential? Ms Brown not speaking for the neighborhood- that would require a meeting with a quorum and properly agendized. P 16 slide- 10% cultivation tax? actual cultivation was not on the agenda. Value of a semi-truck of marijuana? Consultant- no. A small backpack could be worth $5-11,000, so imagine what a truckload is worth.

    Lambert- this is not about retail tonight, just mfg, test, distribution. Cultivation, retailing later.

    Perello- Go slow approach may need to be accelerated to help economy, city finances.

    Lopez- “Social equity component”- Don’t want to dismiss retailing. Keep away from residential, school areas. Concerned about that. HDL Consultant- state definition of sensitive areas includes schools, daycare centers, etc, but cities can add more criteria. Vaney- who would conducts interviews? Answer: HDL.

    MacDonald- Likes it that permits don’t go with land.  This has been a problem with alcohol. Now accepting cannabis- will of the people, but must protect them.  Recognizes social equity issue.

    Ramirez- What about possible state legislation to punish cities which don’t allow retail.? Atty: bogged down due to opposition by League of Cities. Supports having testing here. already have ADQ facility here. Mistakes in Carpenteria re: cultivation- smell and proximity to sensitive areas. Port Hueneme doing very well with retail facilities. Some people benefiting from medicinal products. Cannibalization of retail competition a factor. It does affect young brain development, but so does alcohol

    Basua- not a fan of cannabis, but voters voted for it., Do not favor go slow a approach- urge including retail. Very well regulated. We need the money.

    Madrigal- Retail is huge. It lost here by one vote, We should re-look at it. Finances a factor. Favors 101 corridor for retail. Even if we outlaw it, black market will still operate.  It’s already here in the city. Violence a danger.

    Flynn- Go slow approach was unanimously endorsed. (Other Council members took issue with this) .All uses allowed in city. Will retail stores make it available to younger people (alcohol does)? We have an abnormally high at risk  population, I don’t know how marijuana  will make us a safer community.  Driving when high subjects you to arrest. We need to implement every best practice.

    Basua- The industry can be partners, help educate children, enhance youth services. If a kid wants to smoke marijuana, he will buy off the streets.

    Perello- agrees with Basua. What is legal age to buy marijuana – 21 and over for recreational. 18-21 with physician/marijuana a card. Vote to go slow was not unanimous- it was a 3-2 vote. Only legal marijuana is tested, not black market. Re: cannibalization of cannabis sales- we got cleaned out by Camarillo outlet mall on retail goods- we are in competition (with other cities). Decision was made to no longer record INCO meetings. Let’s not wait until September. (already in the works).

    Nguyen- Tonight’s agenda is NOT about retailing, We can discuss when agendized.

    Vote – approved- 7-0 (Perello yes with reservations)

    MacDonald- majority wants to agendize retail.

     

    M- 1. Housing Department
    SUBJECT: Low Rent Public Housing Budget for Fiscal Year 2020. (5/5/5)
    RECOMMENDATION: That the Board of Commissioners of the Housing Authority of the City
    of Oxnard:
    1. Adopt a resolution approving and adopting the recommended $7,242,417 operating budget for
    the Low Rent Public Housing program (“LRPH”) for fiscal year 2020, as presented for each project
    area; and
    2. Approve and authorize the use of $539,323 of unrestricted cash and investments to fund the
    projected deficit.
    Legislative Body: Housing Authority Board
    Contact: Emilio Ramirez, (805) 385-8094

     

    Housing Director Ramirez: includes affordable housing project and Oxnard public housing (7 facilities). $7.2MM budget. Not much discretion permitted.

    Most of income is rents + $965,000 subsidy. $7.2MM expenses.  Use cash reserves to XXX.

    He outlined no alternative ideas, changes, innovation in his presentation.

    Public Comments

    Pat Brown-  Bad city finances, worsening housing here and in other areas. Homeless people can’t afford rent. Need solutions before summer vacation. This is the most comfortable place to live camped out.

    Council Comments

    Madrigal. There are homeless and many close to being homeless. This metro area is the 6th most expensive area in the nation.

    Perello- Is there a lw that Oxnard must a have a housing authority? Ramirez- No. Perello- Is our budget high? Ramirez- no. Some in Las Cotes had said their grandparents were there. What is wait klist? Ramirez- 4000 people. 300 waiting on this program. Perello- how to stop multi-generational residency in public housing. Ramirez- long wait list, multi-generational residency are comon. Can do something about it- moving to work., to”graduate” out of public assistance.

    Vote- approved- 9-0 unanimous.

     

    M-2. Housing Department

    SUBJECT: Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program Budget for Fiscal Year 2020. (5/5/5)
    RECOMMENDATION: That the Board of Commissioners of the Housing Authority of the City
    of Oxnard:
    1. Adopt a resolution approving and adopting the recommended $21,760,439 operating budget
    for the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program (“Section 8”) for fiscal year 2020; and
    2. Approve and authorize the use of $234,189 of unrestricted cash/investments to fund the
    projected deficit.
    Legislative Body: Housing Authority Board
    Contact: Emilio Ramirez, (805) 385-8094

    Have 1825 vouchers limited by actual HUD subsidies, which is the majority of the $21MM ($19.4MM). The rest is administration.

    Council/Staff Comments

    Madrigal- He read an article that says it takes 20 years to leave poverty if all goes well.

    Basua- HDB program- how much actually in reserves? Director Ramirez- about 2.5 years ($812,000). Don’t know what Congress will do. Must streamline our operations.

    Ramirez- many in public housing are disabled/seniors. We have a homeless problem . hard to use vouchers because rents are so high. Urges employers not to raise rent so much.

    Lopez- agree with Mayor Pro tem Ramirez- How many on section 8 wait list? Director: 4000. Lopez- what about moving out? Director: “Moving to Work” program. Considers local regulation changes to local market rents. For example- Oxnard College could operate re-entry program- financial literacy, etc.

    Nguyen- State’s housing crisis makes it harder to find/afford housing.

    Flynn- How good are our efforts to help people to self sufficiency?  Never received answer. Only 28,000 (1%) of housing recipients actually enrolled in a move out programs., How can we give them a hand up?  How many vouches? Ramirez- 1825 but only enough money to fund 16600. Flynn- coastal housing costs are high. How can we be more effective at helping people? Ramirez- Rental  assistance is based on their ability to pay. As they make more, they get les subsidy (a disincentive to get of assistance).  Flynn- Program wants integration throughout city, but we have clustering.

    Perello- are funds separate from te erst of our budget? Ramirez- yes.

    Vote- 9-0 unanimous

    Meeting adjourned

    Details/links: https://www.oxnard.org/city-council-meetings/

     


    George Miller is Publisher/Co-Founder of CitizensJournal.us and a “retired” operations management consultant residing in Oxnard

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