Category Archives: City News

Main Street Moves – Keep Downtown Streets Open or Closed

by Patricia Shallert

During the Ventura City Council meeting on May 21, 2024, the City Council and community members discussed the future of Main Street Moves (MSM), an initiative that involved closing portions of Main Street and California Street to vehicular traffic. The Temporary Business Expansion Special Event Permit, which allowed for the closure, is set to expire soon, so the City Council introduced an agenda item to extend the closure by seven months. This would provide enough time for staff to conduct a thorough study of long-term options and present their recommendations to the Council. The Council acknowledged the importance of considering community feedback and have been carefully evaluating the potential impacts before making a decision.

There have been concerns raised by property and business owners about the possibility of a permanent closure for Main Street Moves. To address these concerns, the MSM staff plans to hold discussions with property owner representatives and conduct a survey to gather current opinions. The results of the survey will be presented to the City Council in a timely manner, ensuring that the perspectives of property and business owners are taken into account during the decision-making process.

To provide some background, in April 2022, the City Council instructed the staff to explore long-term options for Main Street Moves. To facilitate this process, a Temporary Business Expansion Special Event Permit was granted, allowing for the closure of six blocks of Main Street and one block of South California Street. Significant progress has been made since then, and the staff has regularly updated the Council on the advancements in the MSM initiative. Notably, the City Council unanimously approved Citywide Sidewalk Design Guidelines and Standards, highlighting the ongoing progress.

Since the existing permit expires at the end of June, the City Council needs to take action to extend the closure before then if they wish to maintain the current status quo. The staff believes there is sufficient evidence to support the closure, considering the street has been closed for four years already. The proposed temporary closure would continue the existing situation.

In the previous MSM Ad Hoc Committee meeting on May 6, 2024, the importance of understanding the long-term commitment of property owners to the closure was emphasized. Previous attempts to gather feedback through surveys showed limited responses from them. However, business owners showed a higher response rate, with a clear majority advocating for a full closure. To achieve a higher overall response rate, the staff, in collaboration with Downtown Ventura Partners, will develop a survey for property and business owners. The individual responses will be kept confidential to protect participants and ensure the validity of the results. The staff intends to consult with property owner representatives and promptly present the survey findings to the City Council.

If the Council decides to extend the closure until the end of 2024, the staff will facilitate a smooth transition from the Downtown Ventura Organization permit to the City for all business expansion participants. This transition will involve a review of sidewalks to ensure compliance with the requirements of the business expansion area and readiness for the summer season. The requirements will largely remain the same, with only two differences: the addition of a Workers Compensation Waiver of Subrogation for insurance and the discontinuation of the $250 fee collected by the Downtown Ventura Organization. Regarding the California Environment Quality Act process, (CEQA) the staff plans to issue a Notice of Preparation in early June, followed by the release of the Draft Environment Impact Report (EIR) in the fall and the Final EIR before the end of the year.

A lawsuit was filed on March 11 by a group called Open Main Street alleging city leaders violated California’s Pedestrian Mall Law which governs permanent street closures. The lawsuit also claims the city’s actions have caused economic damage to the property owners. The plaintiffs are seeking the immediate reopening of Main and California streets according to the lawsuit.

More information about MainStreet moves can be found on the city site https://www.cityofventura.ca.gov/2165/Main-Street-Moves

A collaborative approach to addressing homelessness

On March 26, 2024, the Ventura City Council approved a five-year plan to address homelessness. This plan, developed through collaboration with the County of Ventura, City of Oxnard, and City of Thousand Oaks, outlines a strategy tailored to Ventura’s needs. LeSar Development Consultants played a crucial role by providing extensive research to inform the plan.

The Point in Time Count, mandated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), serves as a crucial tool for communities seeking federal grants to address homelessness. Results from the 2024 Ventura County Homeless Point in Time Count, conducted by the Ventura County Continuum of Care, showed a significant change. The number of sheltered persons increased by 14.7% from 2023 to 2024, reaching 927 individuals, while the number of unsheltered persons decreased by 12.4% to 1,431.

Key action areas within Ventura highlight the need to create permanent housing and prevention solutions to break the cycle of homelessness. These efforts involve securing funding, integrating CalAIM’s Enhanced Care Management (ECM) services, fostering partnerships, and enhancing data tracking capabilities.

Mayor Joe Schroeder commented, “The approval of Ventura’s 5-year homelessness plan by the City Council is a testament to our City’s dedication to creating positive change. Through partnership and community input, we’re taking meaningful steps to support this important community issue.”

Drawing insights from the Navigating Homelessness: A Community Engagement Survey, with over 1,100 responses, the City has initiated impactful programs. Among these is the Homeless Prevention and Diversion Program, launched on February 14, 2024, providing critical rental assistance. Strengthening its street outreach, the City partnered with the County of Ventura’s Human Services Agency to offer essential case management.

Insights from the Business Engagement Survey underscore the community’s commitment to addressing homelessness. Close to 90% of local business owners affirmed their presence in the community, identifying key areas for intervention, including affordable housing, behavioral health services, and substance abuse programs.

Currently, City staff are actively pursuing funding opportunities, recently applying for grants, and exploring avenues to expand ECM services. The City Council approved the homelessness plan and directed staff to implement Planning Commission’s suggestions, with updates to be provided quarterly. This approval fulfills a portion of the sixth cycle Housing Element. The City of Ventura aims to address homelessness with compassion and forward-thinking, with the County of Ventura’s homelessness plan aiding in this mission. The City Council prioritizes tenant protections, doubling foul weather shelter capacity, ensuring ADA accessibility for all shelter beds, and establishing an achievement timetable.

For more information on the City of Ventura’s Housing Services Division and its initiatives, visit cityofventura.ca.gov/HousingServices.

Know Your Zone: City of Ventura hosts community workshop to  educate residents on new Evacuation Plan

With a firm commitment to saving lives, the City of Ventura is spearheading efforts to ensure residents are well-informed about local evacuation procedures. Recognizing the complexity of the various hazards that could prompt evacuations in Ventura, the City has meticulously divided Ventura into 15 evacuation zones, considering factors such as hazard vulnerability areas, population density, and major thoroughfares.

To educate residents on the new evacuation plan, evacuation zones, shelter locations, and transportation assembly points, community members and business owners are invited to join Emergency Services Manager Mack Douglass for a community workshop on Saturday, May 18, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. at the Ventura Police Department, located at 1425 Dowell Drive in Ventura.

The workshop will cover information about the 15 designated evacuation zones, potential shelter locations and transportation assembly points.

“With Ventura’s unique geography, location, and limited ingress and egress routes, it is crucial for residents to be aware of their designated evacuation zones in case of an emergency,” said Police Chief Darin Schindler. “By empowering residents with the knowledge and resources needed to respond effectively, we can streamline evacuation processes and save lives.”

The workshop is just one part of the outreach efforts. Additional presentations will be made at neighborhood community councils, ensuring accessibility to all residents. These presentations will cover essential details and provide opportunities for questions and feedback.

Residents are invited to attend the following meetings:

  • East Ventura Community Council: Thursday, May 16 at 7:00 p.m. on Zoom
  • Downtown Ventura Partners: Thursday, June 27, at 9:00 a.m. at the Crowne Plaza

The Evacuation Plan was developed based on feedback from over 900 residents who completed the Emergency Preparedness Community Survey in 2023. Survey responses provided diverse insights on all-hazards evacuation preparedness, including familiarity with current evacuation routes, emergency shelters, transportation options, preferred communication methods, and overall readiness.

The completed Emergency Evacuation Plan is inclusive of diverse populations, recognizing the needs of individuals with visual or hearing impairments, chronic medical conditions, language barriers, disabilities, access, and functional needs.

For more information, please visit CityofVentura.ca.gov/EvacuationPlan.

Celebrate spring at the Pollinator Palooza

The community is invited to attend the second annual Pollinator Palooza event on Saturday, May 18, 2024, between 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Barranca Vista Park, 7050 Ralston Street. Free arts and crafts activities and educational programs will be available for participants of all ages to learn about the significance of pollinators!

“We’re thrilled to welcome new and returning community members to this fun family-friendly gathering,” said Recreation Manager Emily Fox. “We’ve built upon last year’s success and have partnered with incredible community groups to showcase the vital role of pollinators in everyday life.”

Get ready to buzz with excitement as participants explore the fascinating world of pollinators through a wide range of engaging and informative activities, including:

Creating bee wax candles
Learning about beekeeping while painting bee boxes
Constructing a seed ball to help our vital pollinators thrive
See native plants and register for a Milkweed plant giveaway
Attending pollinator story time and puppet theatre
Making sun prints, butterfly crafts, and chalk art
Meeting real-life pollinators
Making a mini bee house
Learning from a UC Master Gardens expert
Touring the City’s Cornucopia Community Garden
Participate in our community bike ride at 1:00 p.m.

This event is hosted by the City’s Parks & Recreation Department, with support from the Ventura Water Department, and Environmental Sustainability Division.

Community partners include Bike VC, Channel Islands Chapter of the California Native Plant Society, East Ventura Community Council, MiniNature Reserve, University of California Master Gardeners, Rincon-Vitova Insectaries Inc., Santa Monica Mountain Fund, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Ventura Bee Rescue, and the Ventura Land Trust.

Find event details and more at www.cityofventura.ca.gov/Events.

Community invited to join workshop for Surfers Point project

The City of Ventura is excited to announce an upcoming community workshop for the Surfers Point Managed Retreat Project. The workshop will occur on Thursday, May 2, at 5:30 p.m. at Santa Rosa Hall, located at the Ventura County Fairgrounds. Spanish interpretation will be available. 

This workshop presents a valuable opportunity for community members to engage in interactive discussions, activities, and collaborative sessions that will shape the amenities and potential public art themes at the Surfers Point site, among other aspects.

“We are thrilled to involve our community in this pivotal stage of the Surfers Point Managed Retreat Project,” said Mayor Joe Schroeder. “After receiving over $16 million from the State of California’s Coastal Conservancy to fund this project, community input and collaboration are crucial in creating a space that reflects the needs and aspirations of our residents and visitors for this iconic location.”

The Surfers Point Managed Retreat Project aims to meet the City’s coastal resilience goals through a multifaceted approach. To help protect against erosion, this project continues an innovative method of replacing existing infrastructure along the coastline that has been damaged due to consistent wave action. 

In addition to coastal protection, the project will include the construction of a new multi-use path and parking lot with an attendant station, a public art component, new lighting, drainage improvements, landscaping, and electrical vehicle parking. The reconstructed dunes, plantings, and buried cobble berm will protect these areas.

The Surfers Point Managed Retreat Project builds upon a previous initiative that was completed in 2013 in collaboration with the Ventura County Fairgrounds, Ocean Protection Council, State of California Coastal Conservancy, Beach Erosion Authority for Clean Oceans and Nourishment (BEACON), Surfrider Foundation, and more. 

“The City of Ventura is one of the world’s leading pioneers in this approach to restoring its coastline by reconstructing the area with natural features that help provide long-term protection against erosion,” shared Public Works Director Charlie Ebeling. “We are fortunate to have so many partners to help safeguard this site for generations to come.”

Community members are encouraged to RSVP for the workshop and learn more about the project’s history and background at Cityofventura.ca.gov/SurfersPoint.

Be well-informed about local evacuation procedures

With a firm commitment to saving lives, the City of Ventura is spearheading efforts to ensure residents are well-informed about local evacuation procedures. Recognizing the complexity of the various hazards that could prompt evacuations in Ventura, the City has meticulously divided Ventura into 15 evacuation zones, considering factors such as hazard vulnerability areas, population density, and major thoroughfares.

To educate residents on the new evacuation plan, evacuation zones, shelter locations, and transportation assembly points, community members and business owners are invited to join Emergency Services Manager Mack Douglass for a community workshop on Saturday, May 18, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. at the Ventura Police Department, located at 1425 Dowell Drive in Ventura.

The workshop will cover information about the 15 designated evacuation zones, potential shelter locations and transportation assembly points.

“With Ventura’s unique geography, location, and limited ingress and egress routes, it is crucial for residents to be aware of their designated evacuation zones in case of an emergency,” said Police Chief Darin Schindler. “By empowering residents with the knowledge and resources needed to respond effectively, we can streamline evacuation processes and save lives.”

The workshop is just one part of the outreach efforts. Additional presentations will be made at neighborhood community councils, ensuring accessibility to all residents. These presentations will cover essential details and provide opportunities for questions and feedback.

Residents are invited to attend the following meetings:
Westside Community Council: Wednesday, May 1, at 6:30 p.m. at the Bell Arts Factory
East Ventura Community Council: Thursday, May 16 at 7:00 p.m. on Zoom
Downtown Ventura Partners: Thursday, June 27, at 9:00 a.m. at the Crowne Plaza

The Evacuation Plan was developed based on feedback from over 900 residents who completed the Emergency Preparedness Community Survey in 2023. Survey responses provided diverse insights on all-hazards evacuation preparedness, including familiarity with current evacuation routes, emergency shelters, transportation options, preferred communication methods, and overall readiness.

The completed Emergency Evacuation Plan is inclusive of diverse populations, recognizing the needs of individuals with visual or hearing impairments, chronic medical conditions, language barriers, disabilities, access, and functional needs.

For more information, please visit CityofVentura.ca.gov/EvacuationPlan.

City Council considering important items

by Patricia Schallert

During the City Council meeting held on April 25th, 2024, Rachel Dimond, the hearing officer, brought forward two important items for discussion  which also included public comments. The initial topic on the table was the proposed paid parking plan for Harbor Village, which was intended to be implemented at various locations including Harbor Cove, Harbor Village & Marina, Ventura Isle Marina, and Surfer’s Knoll. However, a final decision on this plan was postponed until the Directors Hearing scheduled for May 23, 2024 to allow for further examination and discussion.

The second item on the agenda revolved around the Derecktor Ventura Coastal Development Permit, Planned Development Permit, and Major Design review for a project located on Anchors Way. The presentation included the consideration of public comments. The applicant, Tom Dereckor, along with Taylor Hernvall, the Senior Planner, provided detailed information on the Coastal Development Permit (CDP), which ensures adherence to specific regulations for coastal areas. They also highlighted the Planned Development Permit (PDP), allowing for customized development outside of existing zoning regulations. Furthermore, the design review process meticulously evaluated both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the proposed development to ensure it blended harmoniously with the surrounding community.

The presentation placed emphasis on the building development near The Waters Edge Restaurant on Anchors Way, aiming to create an inviting and vibrant space for both the local community and visitors alike. Currently, the project is in its planning and approval phase, with the developers fully dedicated to meeting zoning regulations, obtaining permits, and fulfilling other necessary requirements. Throughout the process, the City Council has prioritized community engagement, providing ample opportunities for residents to voice their concerns, make suggestions, and share their thoughts.

One local resident, Victoria Hubbell, expressed her concern during the meeting regarding potential view obstruction caused by the proposed 36-40 foot tall boat storage racks on the north end of the parking lot. She suggested “amending the plans by lowering the height of the storage racks specifically in that area, thereby addressing the potential impact on views.”

The proposed project encompasses various elements, including the reconfiguration of day sail stalls and parking lots, renovation of the Water’s Edge Restaurant to create a new taproom, construction of a new mixed-use building, installation of additional boat storage areas, establishment of a public boat service area and promenade with seating, along with  other related improvements. The architectural design of both the existing and proposed structures will adhere ensuring a visually cohesive appeal that aligns with the surroundings harbor and community.

At the meeting, the Design Review Committee (DRC) gathered to discuss the proposed Major Design Review. The Ventura City Council, expressed support for the project, emphasizing its positive impact on the community through the enhancement of public spaces, improved services and amenities, and the creation of employment opportunities. In light of this, the Committee unanimously recommended the project’s approval as presented by the Community Development Director.

Further information can be found on the Ventura City website: www.cityofventura.ca.gov

City of Ventura seeks public input on draft action plan

The City of Ventura invites public feedback on its draft action plan for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. This federally funded initiative aims to address housing needs and serve low-income, homeless, and special-needs populations in Ventura.

“Community service groups play a vital role in fulfilling the spirit of intent with this funding, ensuring that those in need are provided with essential support and resources,” said Mayor Joe Schroeder. “These funds are instrumental in uplifting our community and creating a more inclusive and equitable environment for all residents.”

Through the CDBG program, nonprofits can secure funding for projects and programs that enhance neighborhoods, promote economic development, and address community needs. The draft 2024-2025 Action Plan outlines the City’s approach to align with the objectives of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), focusing on providing adequate housing and fostering economic revitalization.

During the December 2023 to February 2024 application period, Ventura received nine applications requesting a total of $1.3 million in funding, a significant uptick from the typical annual allocation of just over $600,000. This competitive process underscores the community’s growing needs and the City’s commitment to allocate resources effectively.

The City encourages the public to share their viewpoints and recommendations during the review phase, with feedback accepted until April 26.

The upcoming City Council meeting on May 7, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. will discuss funding allocations for the 2024-2025 period under the CDBG and HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME), and adopt the Annual Action and Funding Plan for submission to HUD.

Residents are encouraged to engage with the City’s funding decisions and plans by reviewing the draft Action Plan and application summaries available online and providing feedback during the 30-day comment period. Written communications may be submitted online at Cityofventura.ca.gov/publicinput.

To review the draft Action Plan and application summaries, visit the City’s website at Cityofventura.ca.gov/Community-Development-Grant-Programs. 

Ventura’s Special Event Grants open with a one-time extra $150k

The City of Ventura announces the opening of applications for its Special Event Granting Program (SEGP), aimed at bolstering community events for residents. Nonprofit organizations based in Ventura or collaborating with local nonprofits are eligible to apply.

In alignment with the 2023-2024 goals set by the Ventura City Council, an additional $150,000 in one-time funding has been allocated this year. Grants, ranging from $1,000 to $20,000, will be awarded to enhance the diversity of free and affordable community events across Ventura.

“These extra one-time funds greatly enhance cultural and community initiatives. Our city is committed to empowering local nonprofits, enabling them to expand their capabilities and maintain the delivery of enriching experiences for our residents,” said Ventura Mayor Joe Schroeder.

The SEGP typically allocates $10,000 annually to support community celebrations. These events aim to attract residents and visitors, reinforce Ventura’s cultural heritage and economic vibrancy, and foster innovative collaborations between private and public entities.

Applications are due by Wednesday, May 8, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. (PST). Recipients of grant funding from the City’s Community Partnerships and Cultural Funding Grant Programs are still eligible to apply for the SEGP.

For more information, including grant guidelines, eligibility requirements, and applications, visit www.cityofventura.ca.gov/Grants.

The demand for professional first responders can exceed availability

Local residents graduate from CERT training.

After over six weeks of emergency response training, 40 Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) students participated in their final practical exercise, a simulated earthquake with multiple victims. They practices lifting vehicles, putting out fires, triaging the injured, and managing an incident.

In the aftermath of a major disaster, the demand for professional first responders can exceed availability. We are so grateful these Ventura and Santa Paula residents are more prepared and feel confident taking action.

This program equips residents with essential knowledge about potential local disasters and how to safely, swiftly, and responsibly respond. Participants will learn how to reduce fire hazards, set up medical treatment areas, assist responders, conduct light search and rescue, and more!

Completing the CERT program requires 24 hours of training and each graduate will receive a certificate of completion, a manual, and a CERT disaster start-up pack containing a helmet, gloves, vest, and safety goggles.

After several months of wild weather and natural disasters, the city of Ventura is re-instituting their program called the Community Emergency Response Team.

It’s a free program that trains civilians to respond to emergency situations before, or in place of, first responders, such as assessing the level of trauma, applying tourniquets, CPR, putting out fires and more. It’s the first time the C.E.R.T. course has been offered since COVID-19 shut it down.

Ventura Police Department Mac Douglas said they received 93 applications for the course, showing that the community wants this kind of education.

“The fact of the matter is when we have a major incident, our first responders, as good as they are, are going to be overwhelmed,” Douglas said. “So, the community needs to take more of a responsibility for their own preparedness and supporting themselves and their neighbors.”