City Council — 2020-05-26

Meeting Summary

Present: Weirick, Haney, Francina, Johnston

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Staff proposed replacing an aging diesel bucket truck and outdated trailer for maintenance needs.
A new combination truck and larger trailer will support equipment like the Bobcat and K-Rail.
Replacement of an older trolley was deferred to conserve cash due to uncertain farebox recovery.

Ventura County statistics were reviewed alongside preparations for Phase 2 reopening standards.
Council members debated the city mask mandate regarding health implications and business enforcement needs.
Staff confirmed permits are applied for to allow street closures for expanded outdoor dining.
Tennis and Pickleball courts remain open for single play within restricted evening hours.

The city officially canceled the 4th of July parade and concert for this year.
Fireworks cancellation is suggested due to funding shortages and state gathering restrictions.
Absence of school board approval further influenced the decision against large gatherings.

Council approved amended ballot language for a proposed cannabis business license tax.
The measure allows a tax rate between 0% and 10% with an initial rate set at 3%.
Debate on increasing the cap considered financial hardships like banking restrictions for businesses.

Council agreed to support funding the district’s litigation costs against the City of Ventura.
Staff sent a letter requesting a sunset clause and a separate fund for unused money.
The council reserved the right to protest the rate increase if conditions are not met by June 24th.

A meeting with Lockheed and APCD began inventorying greenhouse gas sources in the city.
The third Community Advisory Committee meeting was announced for the Highway Demonstration Project.
Council noted a global shift toward bicycling as primary transportation due to the pandemic.

The Ojai City Council meeting covered several agenda items regarding vehicle replacements, the coronavirus pandemic response, event cancellations, tax measures, and utility rates.

Staff presented a proposal to replace an aging diesel bucket truck and an outdated trailer with a newer combination truck and a larger trailer. The current bucket truck is obsolete, requiring replacement for high-reach inspections (including arborists in the bucket) and general maintenance. A newer trailer is needed for the Bobcat and equipment like K-Rail. Replacement of an older trolley was deferred to conserve cash due to uncertain farebox recovery.

Statistics: As of the meeting, there were 1,017 total cases, 27 hospitalizations (13 ICU), and 32 deaths in Ventura County.
Reopening: The county is moving to Phase 2 (allowing retail and reduced capacity dine-in restaurants) and preparing for Phase 3 (hair salons and religious services).
Face Coverings: A debate occurred regarding the city’s mask mandate. Council Member Francina (Speaker_05) expressed concern over the health implications for children and healthy people in low-risk outdoor situations, citing confusion in the public. Council Members Blatz (Speaker_08) and Wyrick (Speaker_01) supported the mandate, noting that businesses want a clear rule to enforce standards for safety and that it aligns with CDC guidance.
Outdoor Dining & Street Closures: The council discussed closing Ojai Avenue or Matilija for expanded outdoor dining. Staff reported that local businesses are currently not ready to open or request the closure due to low demand and staffing issues. However, Council Member Haney (Speaker_03) advocated for experimenting with a street closure to support the economy. Staff confirmed they have applied for permits to have the option ready if demand arises.
Recreation: Tennis and Pickleball courts remain open for single play. There were requests to extend hours beyond the current 4–6 p.m. window.

The 4th of July parade and concert were officially canceled. Discussion regarding the fireworks show suggested cancellation as well due to a lack of funding, the absence of school board approval, and state guidelines restricting large gatherings to Stage 4 (the county is currently moving toward Stage 3).

The council approved the amended ballot language for a proposed cannabis business license tax. The language allows for a tax rate between 0% and 10%, with an initial rate of 3%. Council Member Wyrick (Speaker_01) suggested increasing the cap to 15%, but Council Member Haney (Speaker_03) argued against it due to the financial hardships cannabis businesses face (e.g., banking restrictions). The motion to approve the 3%–10% range passed.

The council discussed a proposed rate increase by Casitas Water District to fund litigation costs against the City of Ventura regarding water rights (approx. $600,000/year). The council agreed to support the funding effort but sent a letter requesting a sunset clause and a separate litigation fund to ensure money not spent on the lawsuit is not kept in perpetuity. The council reserved the right to protest the rate increase if these conditions are not met by the hearing on June 24th.

Greenhouse Gas Inventory: A meeting with Lockheed and the APCD was held to begin inventorying greenhouse gas sources in the city.
Highway Demonstration Project: The third Community Advisory Committee meeting was announced.
Bicycles: Council Member Blatz noted a global shift toward bicycling as primary transportation due to the pandemic.