On Sunday March 31, The Mighty Cash Cats return to the Canyon Club, 28912 Roadside Dr, Agoura Hills, CA 91301. The Mighty Cash Cats, who the Salt Lake Tribune called “As close as you can get to the real thing” will perform their world renown Johnny Cash Tribute. They cover all six decades of Cash’s music including fun Johnny and June duets. Opening the show will be the fabulous Black Dragon band. The show starts at 7 pm. Mighty Cash Cats will take the stage at 9 pm. Tickets: www.goldstar.com Info: 805-218-2818
IRELAND TOUR DATES ANNOUNCED: Viva Las Vegas! On Friday, April 19, 8 pm, Mighty Cats take their show on the road to Las Vegas to one of the coolest venues in Las Vegas, Count’s Vamp’d, 6750 W Sahara Ave, Las Vegas, NV. Count’s Vamp’d Rock Bar was founded by Danny “Count” Koker, of History Channel’s Counting Cars. Count’s Vamp’d represents the Rock & Roll and Classic Era of the Sunset Strip where you can enjoy great food, drinks and music with a state of the art stage and sound system for the ultimate concert experience. The Mighty Cash Cats will cover all six decades of the Man in Blacks’ music including fun Johnny and June duets.
Mighty Cash Cats
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Thousand Oaks, Calif.—For the second year, California Lutheran University graduate school students will be earning hands-on teaching experience at the Southeast Ventura County YMCA’s “Find My Genius,” a five-week achievement gap program for low- and moderate-income students who are not reading at grade level. The program is provided at no cost to participants.
Last summer, 60 Find My Genius scholars entering second, third and fourth grade took part in the program held at Conejo Elementary School in Thousand Oaks. Lessons focus on vocabulary, spelling, grammar, reading, writing and math. Find My Genius is designed to close the achievement gap frequently experienced by students over the summer.
In 2018, three Cal Lutheran Graduate School of Education (GSOE) students worked full time in the classroom and 15 others volunteered part time as academic camp counselors.
“The program, with the invaluable help by Cal Lutheran students, made a big impact on our participants,” says Isabel Pelayo, Find My Genius camp director and a Cal Lutheran GSOE alumna.In 2018, the 60 scholars improved an average of 2 months in reading and 2.5 months in math. In addition, 91% of the parents reported their child gained confidence as a result of the program.
To build upon last year’s success, the program is expanding to accommodate 120 scholars this summer. Cal Lutheran not only provides student teachers, but also helps underwrite the cost of the program.
“This program provides important summer educational experiences for children in our community as well as meaningful opportunities for our graduate students to continue their development as future teachers,” said Michael R. Hillis, dean of the Cal Lutheran Graduate School of Education. “We are excited to be ongoing sponsors and look forward to how this program will grow in the future.”
Participants are nominated by their schools to attend this summer program. All participants will be notified by the YMCA by mid-May.
Besides the program’s learning component, there is also plenty of time for scholars to take part in outdoor activities, field trips, swimming and arts and crafts. “Emphasis is placed on character building, healthy eating habits and physical activity. It’s a well-rounded, positive experience that can set young students on the right path to success in school and life,” says Pelayo.
In addition to Cal Lutheran, the YMCA receives funding for Find My Genius from the Lennox Foundation, the Valentine Foundation, and multiple individual donors attending the YMCA’ annual Gala each September.
The Southeast Ventura County YMCA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to building positive relationships, impacting lives and strengthening the community through youth development, healthy living programs and social responsibility. It serves the Conejo Valley, Simi Valley, Westlake Village, Oak Park, Agoura Hills and Moorpark through its three branches. www.sevymca.org
Southeast Ventura County YMCA
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Comedy & Cocktails at Studio Channel Islands Art Center
Grab your friends and head on over to Studio Channel Islands Art Center (SCIAC) for an evening of laughter and fun as L.A. comedian Jason Love and friends headline Comedy & Cocktails, 7:30 p.m., March 29. Tickets are $15 at http://bit.ly/2JjwNA0. Beer and wine available for purchase. SCIAC is located at 2222 E. Ventura Blvd, Camarillo.
Studio Channel Islands Art Center Presents The Illusionist Exhibition Studio Channel Islands Art Center (SCIAC) will present a unique exhibition, The Illusionist, March 30 through May 18 in the SCIAC Blackboard Gallery located at 2222 E. Ventura Blvd., Camarillo. Curated by accomplished artist and California Lutheran University art professor Michael Pearce as part of The Representational Art Conference (TRAC) 2019, the premier international event focusing on cutting-edge representational art in the 21st century. The gallery will host an opening reception, 4 to 6 p.m., April 6, with many of the artists in attendance, and will feature comments from award-winning science fiction and fantasy artists Boris Vallejo and Julie Bell. Admission is free. The exhibit will feature works by F. Scott Hess, Richard Macdonald, Sandy Yagi, Bryan Larson, Mark Gleason, Conor Walton, Pamela Wilson, Regina Jacobson, Guy Kinnear, Boris Vallejo, Julie Bell, Roger Dean, Vince Natale and others. For more information, visit www.studiochannelislands.org, or call 805-383-1368.
Studio Channel Islands Art Center Presents The NEXT Big Thing Renowned art critic Mat Gleason to jury fine art of artists from around the country
Studio Channel Islands Art Center (SCIAC) will launch The NEXT Big Thing exhibition with an opening reception 4 to 6 p.m., June 1, at SCIAC’s Blackboard Gallery located at 2222 E. Ventura Blvd., Camarillo. The exhibition will be juried by artist Mat Gleason, an internationally recognized art critic and curator of contemporary art and founder of the controversial Coagula ArtJournal. The NEXT Big Thing showcases the contemporary art of exciting emerging artists, as well as nationally exhibited and award-winning artists, in all medium including video, film, performance, sound and installation art. This exhibition will be on display June 1 through July 20. Admission to the opening reception and the gallery is free. Gallery hours are Tues.–Fri., 11 a.m.–5 p.m., Sat. 11 a.m.–3 p.m. For more information, visit www.studiochannelislands.org or call 805-383-1368.
Artist Studios Open to Public on First Saturdays at Studio Channel Islands Art Center
Camarillo, Calif.– Every first Saturday of the month, Studio Channel Islands Art Center’s artist studios, located at 2222 E. Ventura Blvd., Camarillo, are open to the public, 11 a.m.– 4 p.m. As many as 40 of the area’s very best artists welcome visitors into their studios to watch them create sculptures, paintings and multimedia pieces up-close and personal. Visitors can also enjoy the current exhibition showing at the Blackboard Gallery. Free admission and ample free parking. For information, visit www.studiochannelislands.org or call 805-383-1368.
Studio Channel Islands Art Center
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On 3-19-19, the Oxnard Council: heard a proposal for a joint use project between the high school district and a residential/commercial developer; touted April 12 Oxnard Job Fair; heard status of East Village Development Project; had some reservations about the Portofino Place Residential Development Project; approved health care benefits increases for Oxnard Peace Officers Association and the Oxnard Public Safety Managers’ Association (police); Amended Industrial Zoning; Designated the Month of March as “Women’s History Month
All legal issues. Nothing was disclosed to the public on outcomes.
E- Presentation of a Proclamation Designated the Month of March as “Women’s History Month.”
Approved 7-0
F. Public Comments on items not on the agenda
Mark Sandoval- Director – Channel Islands Harbor (a County position)- apologized for not coming before. He said there is a lack of public understanding on the Harbor Dept, which he plans to remedy with “The Harbor Academy,” which will cover history, finances, planning/development, harbor patrol, maintenance, marketing, boating center. and more. April 4 will be on planning and development. Conspicuously absent was any discussion of the heated dispute between the County and Oxnard on control of development of Channel Islands Harbor, which is in Oxnard city limits.
Ray Bluetel- When was last Intelligent Transportation status report? Last year? Getting $100K/yr from Measure O for “equipment.” But 90% of master plan functionality already received. Deployment of adaptive traffic signal timing? If deployed, it is failing miserably. What is ITS doing with our $100K annually. Tim Flynn- $10MM spent on traffic signal system- 50% functional. Have received multiple complaints.
Ray Martinez- Was homeless alcoholic for 3 years. Applied to be a homeless advocate. Have talked to many about resources for Homeless. He says that he’s with a Baptist ministry, too.
Lauraine Effress- Seconds Sandoval’s Harbor invitation. Next meeting: April 4 6pm at Pacific Corinthian Yacht Club. Still confused about new committee/agenda system, policies and procedures, how items get on the agenda. Most don’t know there are committees and how they work. Wants a workshop on committees, public role, etc.=
Pat Brown- Criticized large truck traffic patterns, gave several examples of problems.
G. Report of City Manager/Executive Director/Secretary
City Manager Nguyen- We are about to host the first ever Oxnard Job Fair, focused on city residents and businesses. City, Oxnard College and Chamber of Commerce are partnering t do this. Fri 4-12 10 am. 4/4 an 4/ two free prior workshops. See on City website oxnard.org. 27 employers signed up so far:
Fri, Apr 12, 10 AM – 2 PM
Oxnard College 4000 S Rose Ave, Oxnard, CA
From Eventbrite.com: Join the City of Oxnard, The Oxnard Chamber of Commerce, & Oxnard College as they host the Oxnard Job Fair Event Details: Date: Friday, April 12, 2019 Time: 10 am – 2 pm Location: Oxnard College…
Madrigal- Went to opening of Oxnard Pony baseball league. Great turnout. At Manny Lopez garden- local art showing and fundraiser. Grand opening of Grand School. Attended Kern and Rose elementary school presentations/ play at Hardock School. Met with NARAP about affordable housing/ownership. East side little league opening upcoming. Caesar Chavez march Saturday in Colonia. New restaurant Raising Cains at old TGIF location early 2020
Basua- Met w/National Assoc of Hispanic realtors. to facilitate affordable Housing. Met with SESPE consulting.
Ramirez- Local government Commission conference in Yosemite climate change, housing, disaster, SIGMA groundwater act, homelessness. Governor pressuring cities to build housing. Chavez March. She met him when he was alive. Represent housing needs assessment for SCAG. State decides city/county housing quotas.
MacDonald- Going to Regional Defense partnership, advocating Naval Base Ventura County. Also will meet on Halaco cleanup.
Perello-paid homage to women’s history month/women. Urged participation in Harbor Academy meeting. agrees on traffic light problem and truck traffic problems. Venture Regional Sanitation 830 at regional sanitation yard office. date? 4/4 Police officer of Year awards. Inter tribal pow-wow 4/17-18.
Lopez- Cal Gisler Neighborhood Council mtg and Elm, St School ribbon cutting, firefighter of the year, League of Cities meeting.
Flynn- Re; regional housing needs assessment. Will have to be implemented in 6 months. He is asked why do we continue to build housing when we have water shortage, traffic problems and residents are opposed. Answer: because state demands it and is toughening up under new governor, State will penalize for noncompliance. Every community needs a healthy balance between jobs and housing. Oxnard has exceeded all other county cities in meeting various economic groups needs. Oxnard is most compliant in the county. Ventura County Council of Goverments plan must be implemented. Extolled Ramirez’s representation on council.
Mac Donald wants to comment on K-3: Need to take a look at other sources of revenue, especially transient/hotel occupation.
Public Comment- none
Approved 7-0 unanimously. (Consent agenda items are voted upon as a group without debate by default, unless items are specifically pulled for discussion by a council member). Click on K-1 minutes above for items detail.
L-1- SUBJECT: Planning & Zoning Permit No. 19-600-01 – Pre-Application Review of the East Village Development Project, Located on the Northeast Corner of Rose Avenue and Camino Del Sol. (20/20/15) RECOMMENDATION: That the City Council review and provide preliminary comments on an updated request for pre-application review for the master planning of a 107 acres project site, known as “East Village Development Project” with residential, parks, high school with a Civic Center Act agreement, and commercial development. Legislative Body: CC Contact: Jeffrey Lambert Phone: (805) 385-7882
This 107 acre project was previously presented back in December. Much input was provided and incorporated. Now it is back a much more dense al multi-family residential unit project,. still with the high school, parks and proposed Maulhardt barn restoration. State mandates and Council preferences are forcing this. Council and public still have some concerns.
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Doug Spondello presented Parkstone materials and Jeffrey Weinstein presented HS District materials, The project is at Rose Ave and Camino del Sol, initially presented 12/18/19. They are responding to council comments on land use and district, park open spaces concept. East Village Phase III- “urban village.” would be all multi-family. low density residential and commercial development, 590 residential units, a 2300 (2500?) student school plus sports field (23 acres) and parks/open space. 750-900 units in another phase. There will be a civic center with the High School project at no cost to the city. Maulhardt barn and outbuildings will be preserved and a park will surround it,. 200 affordable housing units.
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The agenda materials say that “Residential density increased from 509 units to 900-1,100 units (28 to 34.3 units/acre). Housing types are multi-family, no single-family development proposed.”
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Zoning changes, environmental review and planning required.
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High School District- Jeffrey Weinstein, Asst Supt Business Services: We now have 7 high schools at or over capacity by 1600 students, to be addressed by new high school. An additional 500 students expected. $350MM school bond was approved in June, 2018. 270,000 sq ft, 47 acre project with 93 teaching stations. Will include a 450 seat performing arts center. Civic center will be available to the public- no construction funds or future funds will be needed by city,
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Parkstone Companies-Mike Penrod, working with Maulhardt family, working closely with High School District. Much previous description about needed low cost housing. Had to make denser to keep costs down along an urban village concept. Was largely single family, good that we’re getting past that (will now be multi-family). Also, more demand for parks- which they have responded to. Need new traffic signals. Want to coordinate to do all grading, storm drains initially, at once. Want feedback on latest plans. Quimby fees will contribute to maintaining park. EIR (environmental review) will be done through the city.
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Public Comments
Anthony Mirillez- Local 535 business manager. We support this infill project and High School. Part of $350MMm bond project.
Armando Delgado- Will be at Oxnard Job Fair. Union leader. Favors project, extolled benefits to workers, community. Our apprenticeships are “the other four year degree.”
Jeremy Turner- Union guy, supports project, relieves overcrowding, helps economically.
Chuck Cohen- This is just the beginning of the process, very much in tune with it, worthwhile project, make certain it come sout in the nest way.
Victor Gayardo- Good that local union men will work tis job, spend their money here, send their children to productive projects.
Barbara Macri-Ortiz- Thanks to city and developer for a much improved project. Like s density increase and layout. One concern- SW corner dedicate to affordable housing- need economies of scale. Likes using schools facilities.
Council Comments
Flynn- There is an April 1 deadline to apply for matching grants. He called upon Dist Supt. Penelope DeLeon to comment on hard deadline- what grants, what deadlines? Her answer: State facility grants are Prop 51 grants., with limited $ and a long waiting list. Need to get in queue with a secured property. Jeff Weinstein- how we calculate eligibility: factors in overcrowding, portable buildings in use, offsite improvements needed, such as roads? About $59-60 million involved. Flynn- Prop 51 money now exhausted. Also an overcrowding relief grant upcoming, this year’s process over, may start more in the fall. Weinstein disagreed that all Prop 51 money is spent- said there are billions in upcoming unsold bonds.
Viarney- Supportive of the HS building. Still need more work. Remaining concern- area traffic is an issue.
Perello- Support recommendation going forward.
MacDonald- Wasn’t in favor of joint use agreement before. Is now. He was against it before he was for it. Now understands Civic Center agreement- comfortable with it, not perfect, but good, not overly burdensome to property owners.
Ramirez- Tremendous progress, thanks. to staff, developer, school district. Developer responded to concerns. Desperately need housing, schools, jobs. Totally supportive. Water conservation an issue. Want affordable units integrated with regular units to avoid segregation. Why are personnel being laid off due to declining enrollment (vs assertion that enrollment is growing)?
Basua- Thanks for doing research, understand rush to get in the queue, but concerned about transparency. Supports, but traffic is an issue. Not enough time to process all this information.
Madrigal- Fully support. a lot of parents send their kids to other districts, even private schools, but come back in high school. Questions- no more commercial area? No, there is one in are the NW corner. Question- Night field lights are a big problem. Can you change layout? What time are lights on and off?
Perello- do not support public funds for Maulhardt property restoration.
Maulhardt property proposed for restoration, dating back to 1917.
Flynn- Much of promised parkland is actually parking lots. Want more 3 acres more for total net gain of 12 acres. Want magnet program to attract health care employees/St. John’s (hospital) area. Only 40% of St John’s people live in Oxnard. Want them here. Want a STEAM program. Want people to come here because of the schools, not to stay away because of them.
MacDonald- Barn has no foundation, dirt floor, not compliant, can’t meet building codes. Stop telling the school district what should be done (directed at Flynn, presumably). Maulhardts may walk away if we demand too much land. Flynn clarified that some of that was already granted and that he only wants two more acres. Not city’s job to determine how restoration would proceed. He used Adolfo Camarillo restoration/development as a model.
Madrigal- what is new acreage at the cost of- what are you removing? Flynn- nothing. Said he isn’t negotiating, but “advocating.” Flynn thinks that extra density would handle it. Bottom line- just 2 acres requested. Most in Oxnard cannot provide transportation for the kids. Against this.
Flynn- supposed to be a walkable community. Madrigal- I don;’t support it at all. Flynn: Thanks you for your support.
Ramirez- support project, worth looking into how the barn can be supported .
Viarney- we are not in a position to take on the barn restoration, but appreciate your work/views.
Perello opposed to Flynn proposal additions.
Feedback was given by Council and public, No vote was taken or necessary to accept progress on preliminary work.
L-2- SUBJECT: Planning & Zoning Permit No. 18-600-02 – Pre-Application Review of the Portofino Place Residential Development Project, Located on the Southeast and Southwest Corners of Fifth Street and Portofino Place. Filed by John Morelli on Behalf of Portofino Place, LLC. (15/20/15) RECOMMENDATION: That the City Council review and provide preliminary comments on: 1. A Pre-Application to construct 45-duplex residential buildings (90 total units), inclusive of a 2,800 square-foot office/gym/pool building; 412 parking spaces; dog park; and children’s play area; and 2. The applicant’s request to pay the City’s in lieu affordable housing fee instead of constructing the affordable housing units on site. Legislative Body: CC Contact: Jeffrey Lambert Phone: (805) 385-7882
90 rental units, 2 and 3 bedrooms, 45 buildings, dog park, gym/pool, children’s play area, 5th and Portofino Place. Developer is proposing to pay a fee in lieu of building affordable housing on site. No formal application has yet been submitted. A previous approval was made for 41 single family homes and commercial development. Zoning is business/.research park. Directly across the street from Oxnard airport. Needs FAA risk assessment, zone changes.Needs several different reviews and approvals. 5 affordable units if rentals, 10 if owned. Fees are now $5,100/unit?
Nguyen- introduced Mr. Figarilla, principal planner. Nguyen said that these fees have nothing to do with this project. City is extremely behind in updating our “absurdly low” fees. It’s on us to update them.
Public Comment
Pat Brown- I remember Quimby and in lieu fees, which never covered enough to actually build affordable housing. Nothing has changed, still have this problem.
Julie Miller Kolbacher- Having a hard time hearing some council members. Thought these wold be owned townhomes, not rentals, felt that she was misled. Promised fire gate left out. Traffic would go through their private HOA rods. Don’t want rental traffic.
Barbara Macri-Ortiz- Oppose project- extremely low density for a rental project. Airport restriction is the tail wagging the dog. Developer asking for too many changes to code. Only way she would agree is to make it an ownership project them build 9 units for low income.
Jim Meany- Broker representing family selling property. On market for 4 years for industrial development. Zero interest. Recommends change to residential zoning – “highest and best use.” , Better than 24 gr truck traffic/ Some interest in VA hospital. Airport authority put 25% maximum coverage. Fire Dept demanded fire exist
Kate Eastender(?)- Represent developer- want to clarify somethings said. Intend to do fire gate. Why low density? Because of airport regulations. Re: rental vs ownership- sorry we didn’t make it clearer to HOA. Always intended it to be a rental project. Good place for a rental project.
Roy Prince- Calling for Oxnard to step up quality of the architecture, This project looks like flat roofs- not attractive. Want City to hire an architect to look at designs. Many projects have poor architecture. Want more traditional, perhaps Spanish style red tile roofs. Bring in some more attractive projects.
Council Comments
Lopez- OK
Perello- OIn Oxnard Airport Authority juriisdiction- Would like to discourage through traffic in speaker Miller’s neighborhood. Need to clarify to neighborhoods that this is a rental project. Fees inadequate to build low income housing. Pool proposed would not be public. Sewer, water and storm drain upgrades needed. No school cost impact included.
MacDonald- Torn on this project. Would like for sale project with exclusionary model. How do we enforce (lower) density that airport requires? How come Camarillo Airport doesn’t seem to have the same building constraints? What about traffic/parking congestion? Try to mitigate this stuff. Not enthusiastic, but willing to explore- have some real concerns.
Ramirez- In desperate need of affordable housing. Want that instead of in-lieu fees and want more density.
Basua- Can we reject in lieu fees? Planner: Council can decide this. Mallory: Applicant requesting council feedback on this. Want low income, not in lieu fees.
Madrigal- Don’t builders get money for building affordable housing? No. Mallory says there are amenities designed into the project. Need to have higher fees.
Planner- Fire Department is on review board.
Flynn- Appreciate Ms. Eastbender reaching out to interact with council, neighborhood. In lieu fee absolutely absurd- even $25K would be inadequate.Would like better architecture. He believes in infill projects, but can’t support one so close to the airport.
Nguyen- no comments. Will fix city’s fees across the border.
L-3- SUBJECT: Successor Memoranda of Understanding Between the City of Oxnard and the Oxnard Peace Officers Association and the Oxnard Public Safety Managers’ Association. (5/5/5) RECOMMENDATION: That City Council adopt by resolution the attached successor memoranda of understanding (MOU) with the following bargaining units:
a. Oxnard Peace Officers Association (OPOA); and b. Oxnard Public Safety Managers’ Association (OPSMA). Legislative Body: CC Contact: Steve Naveau Phone: (805) 385-7947
Aditioanl medical/”cafeteria” benefits to be competitive and keep out of PERS pension obligation calculations.
Three fiscal years for Oxnard Peace Officers assoc. Those waiving medical coverage get about $300 difference (about $1500/month value). Will increase physical fitness program amount to $40,000. Add a 401A contribution of .9%. $4/hr callback.
OPSMA- similar but not identical. 1.4% contribution to 401A. Said they are at the low end of medical contributions,
OPOA= $3.7 MM impact
PSM- $259K impact
Perello wanted to know if there are any physical condition levels imposed. Flynn cut him off.
Public Comment
Julie Miller Kolbacher- Wants competitive benefits, or city will train officers,who will then leave for more
Mr. Kolbacher- Basically supported Julie’s point.
Oxnard is 3x lower than other cities. Oxnad rejected him for PD after he was in academy.
Council
Madrigal- this is much needed.
Basua- Benefit package not as great as other cities, nice to make transition,but city is struggling. support 100%.
Ramirez- Supports. Public should know more than just this contribution, but the whole package. Lack funding from state. Appreciate Dept. hiring so many local people.
MacDonald- in Vta College criminal law liaison to academy. Six month commitment plus $7,00 equipment to attend academy (city pays 3/4 salary). Takes about a year to hire +6 mos + field training before becoming a fully functional police officer. We risk becoming a training ground and losing people after all that time and expense. I fully support, would lie to see us being even more competitive.
Perello- I support this. But many in private sector don’t get this, even as they are paying for all this.
Flynn- this is a meager increase, barely keeps up with inflation. Want to reward public safety, all city employees. Have a difficult situation- costs increasing faster than revenues. 80% of general fund is salaries and compensation- may require a workforce cutback. Ventura has 30-40% more revenue per capita than Oxnard does. We have highest rate of PD and FD calls in the county. Cutbacks stress employees, cut service. We are still on an unsustainable path. Ned to find a way to grow the revenue.
Vote- 7-0 passed.
M-1- SUBJECT: Planning and Zoning (PZ) Permit No. 17-580-01 (Zone Text Amendment) – Amendments to the Industrial Portion of the Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 16, Divisions 11-15 of the Oxnard City Code- Business and Research Park, Limited Manufacturing, Light Manufacturing, Commercial Manufacturing, and Heavy Manufacturing (10/15/20) RECOMMENDATION: That the City Council introduce an ordinance (read by title only, waiving further reading) amending Chapter 16, Divisions 11 – 15 of the Oxnard City Code pertaining to regulations governing land uses and development regulations for uses within the Business and Research Park, Limited Manufacturing, Light Manufacturing, Commercial Manufacturing, and Heavy Manufacturing zoning districts, and implement the Planning Commission’s recommendations. Legislative Body: CC Contact: Jeffrey Lambert Phone: (805) 385-7882
Mr Lambert, Director. Council initiate update in 2016, not reflect needs for industrial properties. Now clearer, reflective of how industrial properties are used today.
Planner- Provide an efficient development process. No major update since 1964. Industrial zones updated. Went from text approach to a land use matrix, which should be easier, clearer to read/interpret. nusre consistency with 2030 general plan. Clarify non-industrial uses. Added commercial retail, cafes/restaurants in industrial areas.
Public Comments
Barbara Macri-Ortiz- a lot easier to read. Thanks for change for farm worker housing. Support.
Alex Castilla- Thanks for addressing farmworker housing.
Jim Meany Commend Asidro, Kathleen, Director. 95% good. Need m-1, m-2 zoning outdoor storage. SA little too restrictive as written. Change special use permit to pd permit, over the counter. Otherwise could cost $15-20,000. Pleas extend, clean up this document.
Pat Brown- Some areas on east side of Oxnard near Date Street have mixed industrial/housing. Move residents out of that area and make all industrial. Want an area for homeless in an industrial area far from downtown and industrial areas. Serve them food and all so they don’t have to go somewhere to irritate the general public.
Dev. Director Lambert- Use planning permit OK. If main use is indoor, then Director level approval is good. Supports staff’s original recommendation. In other words, no to Mr. Meaney.
Council//Staff Comments
Madrigal- great job, into 21st Century 19 years late.
Basua- Hopefully 100% there, not 90% Support
Ramirez- supports
Perello- Re restrictions on land use near churches, homeless shelters. What does no mean? No restrictions to land use existed, so standards were introduced. Greater than 25% requires DDR approval- does that go with the land? You can revert to original use if originally allowed for.
Flynn- re: storage- Planner- more than 25% requires a permit. Need DDR for more, if it’s accessory to the main use.
Vote- 7-0 passed
Upcoming Events
Details- upcoming and archived meetings:
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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A bill that would allow taxpayers to donate a part of their refunds to a nonprofit collecting money to build more border wall has successfully passed the Alabama Senate.
Alabama state senators voted 23-6 along party lines Thursday in favor of SB 22, the Montgomery Advertiser reported. The legislation would add We Build The Wall Inc. to a list of about 20 groups and programs on state income tax forms that residents can check off and donate with their tax refunds.
“I think it’s a way for Alabamians to say to the president and to the nation that we think strong border security is important. We want to promote that. We want Washington to build that wall,” GOP Senate President Pro Tem Del Marsh, the bill’s sponsor, stated according to The Associated Press.
“This bill is about sending a message to Washington that we support President Trump and his mission to secure our southern border,” Marsh said, who is mulling a 2020 U.S. Senate bid.
We Build The Wall — which began in December as a viral GoFundMe campaign by Air Force veteran and triple amputee Brian Kolfage — is a nonprofit group that is raising money for wall construction on the U.S.-Mexico border. The GoFundMe page is nearing $21,000,000 in donations.
However, the legislation may be more symbolic than anything else. Before funds from We Build The Wall can be used, Congress must vote to allow the money to be directed to the Department of Homeland Security. Given that the Democratic Party controls the House of Representatives, this is unlikely to happen in the immediate future.
The private contributions are rolling in as President Donald Trump continues to fight for more wall funding. Trump signed into law a resolution that gave him $1.375 billion to build 55 miles of barrier on the Texas border. He then declared a national emergency that has allowed him a total of $8 billion in funding, but numerous progressive groups are suing his emergency declaration in court.
New iron fence on the border between Mexico and the United States in Texas
The president, in his latest budget proposal, is asking for an additional $8.6 billion in wall funding.
Back in Alabama, local Democrats derided SB 22, which will later be voted on by the state House.
Singleton’s comments are technically correct. Over 960 people have illegally crossed the U.S.-Canada border in 2018, according to government data, representing a 91 percent increase from the previous fiscal year. However, that number remains a minuscule fraction of the apprehensions taking place on the U.S.-Mexico border, where border officials expectto find nearly 100,000 foreign nationals in the month of March alone.
On March 2, 2019, the Los Angeles Times editorial board attacked district attorneys as craven politicians out to maximize punitive sentences. The reason for the attack is because a number of district attorneys have challenged the constitutionality of a law enacted by the state Legislature. The law, enacted pursuant to Senate Bill 1391, prohibits the transfers of 14 and 15-year olds to adult court- no matter how heinous the crime.
The reality is starkly different: Prosecutors are protecting the state’s Constitution and institutions. In our system of government, the Legislature is not vested with absolute power to change the law. In fact, judicial review has been a cornerstone of our system since 1803. Yet, the LA Times conveniently repudiates this doctrine when it disagrees with the law in question while fully embracing it when the courts are called to review issues that the editorial board supports. These vacillating positions on judicial review are fundamentally inconsistent. The Times editorial board’s situational ethics are quickly revealed by a cursory review of past positions they have taken here, here and here where they advocated for judicial review of enacted laws which the Times opposed.
The editorial staff claimed that Proposition 57 repeals Proposition 21. It did not. The former merely limited the latter with regard to one discrete issue: the direct filing of cases against juveniles in adult court. Proposition 57 is not about “treating kids like kids.” Rather, it shifted the power to determine where minors will be tried from prosecutors to judges.
Despite the L.A. Times editorial board’s claims, Propositions 21 and 57 share the assumption that certain minors over the age of 14 should be treated as adults. Specifically, Proposition 57 stated, “In any case in which a minor is alleged to be a person described in subdivision (a) of Section 602 by reason of the violation, when he or she was 16 years of age or older, of any felony criminal statute, or ordinance except those listed in subdivision (b), or of an offense listed in subdivision (b) when he or she was 14 or 15 years of age, the District Attorney or other appropriate prosecuting officer may make a motion to transfer the minor from juvenile court to a court of criminal jurisdiction.”
The state Legislature – ignoring Propositions 21 and 57 – mandated that an entire class of minors was no longer eligible for a judicially approved transfer. In response, District Attorneys have argued that the revocation of judicial authority specifically granted by Propositions 21 and 57 to transfer these minors to adult jurisdiction unconstitutionally violated both initiatives. Armed with case law, prosecutors presented this challenge before a number of judges, and the judges agreed. Eventually this process will end in our state Supreme Court. This is the process defenders of democratic institutions should embrace; yet the L.A. Times now questions the process it has supported so many times in the past.
Despite the editorial board’s claims, the stance of district attorneys on this issue is not about being punitive; this is about the state constitution and about balancing the rights of the accused against the constitutional rights of victims. Article II, section 8(a), of the state constitution provides, “The initiative is the power of the electors to propose statutes and amendments to the Constitution and to adopt them.” To protect the power of the initiative, the constitution limits the power of the legislative branch to amend or repeal it by statute in Article II, section 10(c). Our Supreme Court has held that the purpose of this limitation on legislative power is to “preclude the Legislature from undoing what the people have done.”
Yet, this is exactly what the Legislature did. They changed a law that was passed by the voters in two initiatives, Proposition 21 and 57. Proposition 21 allowed 14 and 15 years olds to be transferred to adult court and required a two-thirds majority of the Legislature to change the law. SB 1391 did not pass by those margins. As noted above, Proposition 57 continued to permit the prosecution of 14 and 15-year olds as adults. Proposition 57 allowed the Legislature to amend the law by a simple majority, but only if the subsequent legislative changes furthered the goal of the initiative.
No one knows how the Supreme Court will eventually come down on the constitutionality of SB 1391. As the Times editorial board correctly pointed out when advocating for judicial review of an enacted law that it opposed, “the court’s responsibility is not to anticipate what the public might do. It is to decide what the Constitution commands.” I only wish the L.A. Times would grant as much deference to the courts when they disagree with a given legislative policy as when they don’t.
Eric Siddall, Vice President of the Association of Deputy District Attorneys, the collective bargaining agent representing nearly 1,000 Deputy District Attorneys who work for the County of Los Angeles. To contact a Board member, click here.
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The Port Commission of San Francisco is set to approve a prime Embarcadero waterfront location for what will be the largest homeless shelter in the city.
The commissioners, appointed by the mayor, are scheduled to vote on the proposal April 23. It is expected to be approved. “The commission is likely to support the mayor’s proposal, but has a strong track record of engaging with the community,” said Elaine Forbes, the port’s executive director, in an interview with the San Francisco Chronicle.
The facility, called a “SAFE Navigation Center,” (Shelter Access For Everyone) is planned to house at least 175 people and provide comprehensive social services for the area’s homeless, including care for pets and access to storage, according to Jeff Kositsky, executive director of the Department of Homelessness and Supportive Housing.
San Francisco Waterfront, Dreamstime
The shelter will be located at Seawall Lot 330, directly across from piers 30/32, and is estimated to be open for four years. The area around the proposed shelter site is densely residential, consisting mainly of high-end apartment homes in the Rincon Hill and South Beach neighborhoods, ranging from $750,000 to millions of dollars, per Zillow.
San Francisco has an average daily homeless population of 7,500, according to the 2017 San Francisco Homeless Count & Survey, and an estimated 4,300 sleep on the streets each night. Democratic Mayor London Breed announced her plan last October to add 1000 beds for the city’s homeless by the end of 2020.
She unveiled the proposed shelter site on March 4. “To help those living on our streets, we need to meet people with shelters and services where they are,” Breed said in a statement. “The waterfront has a number of challenges around homelessness.” Seawall Lot 330 is owned by the Port of San Francisco, so the Port Commission’s approval is required.
To speed up the project, Breed introduced legislation in January declaring a shelter crisis for San Francisco, along with ordinances to expedite developmental red tape. Eight days after the announcement, residents were invited to share concerns at the Port Commission’s scheduled March 12 meeting.
The public comments were overwhelmingly negative, with many residents displaying visible emotion during speeches, which were limited to two minutes each. Most of their issues related to increased crime, drugs, loitering and garbage. The meeting was broadcast on San Francisco Government TV.
In the film version of Forrest Gump (but not, if memory serves, in the novel), Forrest’s mother tries to convince the local elementary school principal that her son belongs at his local elementary school rather than at an institution for what we would now call “special needs” students. The two reach an understanding on Mrs. Gump’s remarkably squeaky bed while Forrest waits on the front porch.
That scene popped to mind uninvited in early March when fifty parents, test administrators, and college sports coaches were indicted in a nationwide college admissions bribery scandal.
Coaches allegedly took bribes to accept students as fake athletic recruits to get around academic standards. Test prep services supposedly taught students how to cheat on tests and bribed proctors to smooth the way for the cheating. An “admissions consultant,” William Singer, is accused of orchestrating the scheme to the tune of $25 million.
None of which, obviously, is According to Hoyle.
I’m surprised, though, at the vitriol directed at the parents in particular.
I suspect most movie viewers empathized with the fictional Mrs. Gump, who did whatever she felt she had to do to secure the best education possible for her child.
Real-life parents like actors Lori Loughlin and Felicity Huffman — the two most famous of the indicted parents — did whatever they felt they had to do to secure the best educations possible for their children as well.
The difference, of course, is that the fictional Mrs. Gump was poor, while Loughlin and Huffman are wealthy.
The public heartburn over Loughlin and Huffman seems less about them bribing their kids into good schools than about them being able to AFFORD to bribe their kids into good schools.
Suppose the scandal had unfolded in a different way. What if, instead of rich people writing checks they could afford, it was working class parents scraping together money they really couldn’t afford, or trading menial work or even sexual favors a la Mrs. Gump, for illicit “admissions assistance?”
In that alternative scenario, I suspect most would regard the parents as victims, not as evil-doers.
In that alternative scenario, I expect that most parents could see themselves doing exactly the same things in the same circumstances.
“Let me tell you about the very rich,” wrote F. Scott Fitzgerald. “They are different from you and me.” True. But not when it comes to loving their children. I won’t condemn them for that.
Thomas L. Knapp (Twitter: @thomaslknapp) is director and senior news analyst at the William Lloyd Garrison Center for Libertarian Advocacy Journalism (thegarrisoncenter.org). He lives and works in north central Florida.
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The Oxnard Police Department has been making strides in reducing the number of reported stolen vehicles in the city. Over the course of several days, Oxnard Police Officers have arrested the following people for auto theft related charges.
On March 15, 2019, Oxnard Police Officers observed a stolen 2003 Honda Civic near the intersection of Hemlock Street and Dunsmuir Street. Officer’s contacted the driver identified as Thomas Bernhardt, 31 years old. During the investigation it was determined that the Honda was stolen out of the city of Oxnard on March 13, 2019. Bernhardt was arrested for driving a stolen vehicle, possession of stolen property and for possession of drug paraphernalia. Bernhardt has an extensive criminal record which includes arrests for auto theft.
On March 17, 2019, Oxnard Police Officers observed a stolen 1999 Honda Civic near the intersection of Saviers Road and Pleasant Valley Road. Officers stopped the vehicle and contacted the driver identified as Fernando Salinas, 29 years old. During the investigation it was determined that the Honda was stolen out of the city of Oxnard on March 15, 2019. Salinas was arrested for driving a stolen vehicle, possession of stolen property and for possession of burglary tools. Salinas has three prior convictions for auto theft related charges and is currently on probation for auto theft.
The passenger in the stolen vehicle was identified as Richard Rodriguez, 44 years old. Rodriguez was arrested for an outstanding misdemeanor warrant and of possession of stolen property.
On March 17, 2019, Oxnard Police Officers observed a stolen 2001 Honda Accord that was parked near the intersection of Ventura Road and Wagon Wheel Road. Officers contacted Nestor Camargo, 27 years old and arrested him for possession of the stolen vehicle, possession of stolen property and for being under the influence of drugs. The vehicle was reported stolen from the city of Oxnard on March 16, 2019.
The four subjects arrested all indicated that they are homeless or transient. All of the stolen vehicles recovered are Honda vehicles.
Suspects: Thomas Bernhardt, 31 years old, Fernando Salinas, 29 years old, Richard Rodriguez, 44 years old, Nestor Camargo, 27 years old
Help protect yourself and your vehicle from thieves by remembering to:
Lock your vehicle and take out your valuables when leaving it. An unlocked car is an invitation to a thief.
Close all windows – thieves can open vehicles through the smallest of openings.
To take your car keys with you. Do not leave them in your car, or leave your car running.
Detectives from the Auto Theft Task Force are offering steering wheel locks to Oxnard residents. Owners of 1990-2000 Honda passenger vehicles are asked to be extra vigilant due to the high number of thefts involving these specific vehicles. The Auto Theft Task Force has a limited amount of steering wheel locks available, for details on obtaining a free steering wheel lock, contact Detective Enrique Alvarez at (805) 385-7664.
The Oxnard Police Department cannot effectively stop auto theft without the assistance of concerned, responsible residents. We are depending on YOU to call and tell us whenever you see suspicious persons or activity. Anyone with information regarding this case or other criminal activity is encouraged to contact the Oxnard Police Department at (805)385-7600, or online via the Oxnard Police Department’s website: www.oxnardpd.org and select the Report Suspicious Activity tab located on the homepage. You can remain anonymous if you choose to do so. You can also remain anonymous by calling the Ventura County Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477. You can also visit this site: www.venturacountycrimestoppers.org to submit a tip via text or email.
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VENTURA, California – District Attorney Gregory D. Totten announced today that Shane Felton Loomis (DOB 07/17/72), of Thousand Oaks, has been charged with one count of felony gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated and a special allegation of having a blood alcohol content of 0.15 percent or higher. This charge stems from a solo traffic collision that occurred March 16, 2019, on Erbes Road in Thousand Oaks, which resulted in the death of his passenger, Amanda Gannon. If convicted, Loomis faces up to ten years in prison.
The Ventura County District Attorney’s Office is the public prosecutor for the county’s 850,000 residents. The office employs approximately 280 employees including attorneys, investigators, victim advocates, and other professional support staff who strive to seek justice, ensure public safety, and protect the rights of crime victims.
Follow the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office on Twitter @VenturaDAOffice
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Zoning changes, environmental review and planning required.
