Proud members of the community at the ribbon-cutting ceremony (see end of article). Photo by Patricia Schallert
On Wednesday, February 16, board members of the Pierpont Bay Community Council held a special ribbon-cutting ceremony to unveil the community’s new monument sign, which will greet residents and visitors at the entrance to South Seaward Blvd.
“We are very thankful and grateful to the city of Ventura for its ongoing support of this project,” PBCC South Seaward Beautification Committee Chair Dan Roundtree stated. He cited Parks and Recreation Director Nancy O’Connor as being especially helpful in ushering the project through the long approval process, which met with significant delays due to the City’s focus on the Thomas Fire tragedy and ongoing COVID crisis.
Fundraising began early in 2019 when Roundtree, on behalf of the PBCC, applied for a $10,000 Measure O grant that was awarded the following year. Funds were released in July, 2021, after the design for the 8-foot tall sign received final approval from the City. Construction began in January, 2022. The completed sign reflects “the community’s special identity and historical significance as an original Southern California Surf City,” Roundtree said.
“This monument sign is an example of what an effective community council can do for their neighbors,” said Deputy Mayor Joe Schroeder, who officiated at the event. “The PBCC listens to needs of the community, raises funds and finds a way to accomplish projects. I’m sure they are planning to get even more done.”
One of seven volunteer community councils recognized by the City of Ventura, the PBCC serves residents of all District 7 coastal neighborhoods. Funds are currently being raised for the group’s Light Up South Seaward campaign to provide decorative lighting along both sides of South Seaward Boulevard, similar to that seen on Main St. in downtown Ventura. The group hosts a monthly Beach Cleanup Day at the end of South Seaward as well as an annual community-wide holiday event. Monthly meetings are currently held on Zoom. More information can be found at www.pierpontcouncil.org
Photo: The little girls on the left are Ellie and Molly, Events Committee Chair Lauren Almeida’s daughters. After Lauren, left to right: Beach Committee Chair Robin Birney, VP Kate Gullickson, Secretary Howard Stern. On other side of the sign is South Seaward Beautification Chair Dan Roundtree, the Deputy Mayor and our Treasurer Terry Foley.
