Meeting Summary
Present: Stix, Weirick, Blatz
This summary was AI-generated to save you time. It may miss or misstate details, so verify against the official recording and the transcript.
At a glance
Ojai Valley Community Hospital Proclamation
- A video presentation recognized the hospital's pandemic response, including over 15,000 vaccine doses administered.
- The proclamation highlighted zero internal transmission cases and extensive collaboration with local agencies.
- Hospital representatives accepted the proclamation on behalf of the institution.
Emergency Preparedness Day Promotion
- A video promoted an upcoming event on May 27 at Libbey Park focused on wildfire and disaster readiness.
- The event will be held outdoors with safety protocols and include a live-stream option.
- Attendees will receive City of Ojai flashlights as giveaways.
Public Communications on Climate Data
- A member of the public urged the council to review scientific data directly before funding climate initiatives.
- The speaker cited a book challenging current climate change orthodoxy regarding heat waves and sea-level rise.
Consent Calendar and Air Quality Report
- Council members questioned the age of data and formulas used in the air quality and growth management reports.
- Staff clarified that the city is currently compliant with air quality standards despite external traffic impacts.
- It was noted that certain affordable housing projects may be exempt from growth management plan limits.
Pledge of Allegiance Discussion
- Public concern was raised regarding a potential omission of the Pledge of Allegiance at Arts Commission meetings.
- Staff agreed to research statutory requirements for General Law cities and report back to the council.
- Council members suggested liaisons communicate with commission chairs to clarify the situation.
COVID-19 Executive Orders and Permit Extensions
- The City Manager reported that state tier restrictions and city executive orders are scheduled to lift on June 15.
- Discussion focused on extending temporary permits for outdoor dining and fitness classes beyond the lifting date.
- The council voted to extend emergency permits until January 3, subject to staff review of compliance and impacts.
Capital Improvement Program Workshop
- Staff presented a $3 million budget for projects including street paving, active transportation, and park improvements.
- Council and public feedback requested modifications to Sarzotti Park logistics and additional bike infrastructure.
- The council agreed to receive a revised presentation at a future workshop to incorporate feedback and updated projections.
General Plan Vision and Guiding Principles
- A consultant presented a draft vision statement outlining community character goals through 2045.
- Council members and the public deferred adoption to allow for further deliberation and community input.
- Staff will collect written comments and revisions to present a revised version at a future meeting.
Downtown Trolley Pilot Program
- The council approved a four-month, federally funded pilot program for a special Saturday trolley route.
- The route connects downtown businesses and hotels, with regular service continuing alongside the pilot.
- Staff will report back with findings and potential route modifications after the trial period concludes.
Trolley Feasibility Resolution
- A resolution regarding trolley route feasibility, including turnaround capabilities, was adopted by the council.
- The motion passed following a roll call vote after discussion on specific access points.
Earth-Friendly Management Policy
- Staff reported that the city has nearly eliminated herbicide and pesticide use, reserving them for rare invasive cases.
- Council members raised concerns about policy definitions, fire mitigation impacts, and the need for specific usage data.
- No motion to adopt was made; presenters agreed to address concerns and provide additional data before reconsideration.
City Manager's Report
- A hearing on the Ojai Quarry amendment is scheduled for May 27, with the city intending to submit a comment letter.
- Updates were provided on the Housing Element meeting, the Emergency Preparedness Day, and the pending Sheriff's Department agreement.
Council Protocol and Future Agenda Items
- The council noted the need to update protocol documents to reflect recent ordinance changes and rule corrections.
- The Mayor clarified that sponsoring council members must present their own agenda items rather than relying on staff.
- Suggestions were made to add fire hardening measures, tiny home pilot follow-ups, and an emergency disaster plan to the next agenda.
Full summary
Call to Order and Agenda Approval
- The meeting was called to order with a quorum present. The City Clerk noted a discrepancy between the printed packet and the online agenda regarding the order of items 5 and 6, confirming the online posting would be followed. Clarification was provided regarding Item 1K, an ordinance to correct language concerning the transfer of animals; it was noted that the item was listed as "adoption" in the packet but was actually an "introduction," with adoption scheduled for a future meeting. A motion was made to approve the agenda, seconded by another member, and passed via roll call vote.
Presentations
- Ojai Valley Community Hospital: A video presentation was shown recognizing the hospital's work during the pandemic, specifically the vaccine clinic at Nordoff High School. The proclamation highlighted the hospital's infection control measures, processing of over 60,000 tests, and administration of over 15,000 vaccine doses with zero internal transmission cases. Representatives from the hospital accepted the proclamation, acknowledging the collaboration with the school district, Ventura County, and the City of Ojai.
- Emergency Preparedness Day: A short video was presented promoting an upcoming Emergency Preparedness Day on May 27th at Libbey Park. The event, organized by the City, Ventura County agencies, and Ojai CERT, aims to educate residents on wildfire and natural disaster preparedness. The City Manager noted that the event would be held outdoors with safety protocols and live-streamed online. City of Ojai flashlights were announced as giveaways for attendees.
Public Communications
- A member of the public addressed the council regarding a book by physicist Stephen Koonin, which challenges certain aspects of climate change orthodoxy. The speaker urged the council to review scientific data directly before spending millions on climate initiatives, citing claims that heat waves, hurricanes, and sea-level rise have not increased as predicted.
Consent Calendar
- A motion was made to approve the consent calendar, which included various reports. During discussion, a council member questioned the age of the data in the air quality report and the formula used for residential growth management. The City Manager explained that the formula is established in the city code and that the report reflected current allocations. The Air Pollution Control District Chairman provided additional context, noting that while the city is now compliant with air quality standards, factors such as temperature and external traffic on Highway 101 significantly impact local air quality. It was clarified that certain affordable housing projects may be exempt from the growth management plan limits. A council member also inquired about the release of 2020 census data, with staff estimating availability by late October. Following these clarifications, the motion to approve the consent calendar was seconded and passed via roll call vote.
Public Comment on Consent Calendar
- A member of the public spoke regarding the Ojai Arts Commission's recent meeting, expressing concern over a discussion about omitting the Pledge of Allegiance. The speaker argued that the Pledge is a necessary affirmation of citizenship and warned against removing it from government meetings. Council members discussed whether the Pledge is legally required for General Law cities, with staff noting they would research the statutory requirements and report back. A council member suggested that liaisons to the commissions should communicate with the chairs to clarify the situation.
COVID-19 Report and Executive Orders
- The City Manager presented an update on the pandemic status, noting that Ventura County was expected to move to the "yellow tier" on June 2, 2021, with a full lifting of state tier restrictions anticipated on June 15. Key changes included increased capacity for gatherings, gyms, and restaurants, and the potential reopening of bars. The report indicated that the city's executive orders, including face covering requirements and business protocols, were scheduled to be lifted on June 15, with the exception of the eviction moratorium.
- Discussion ensued regarding the extension of temporary permits for outdoor dining and outdoor fitness classes beyond June 15. Staff reported that several restaurants and fitness class operators expressed interest in continuing these programs. A motion was proposed to allow temporary use permits for outdoor dining and fitness classes on a case-by-case basis starting June 15, subject to staff review of impacts on neighboring businesses and parking. The motion was amended to extend the permit period through Ojai Day (late October). Further discussion occurred regarding extending the period to the end of the year or Thanksgiving to provide certainty for businesses. The council debated the balance between supporting restaurants and ensuring fair access to parking for other businesses.
Agenda Item 1: Extension of Emergency Permits (Outdoor Dining/Seating)
- Discussion focused on the duration of an extension for emergency permits issued to businesses. A motion was made to extend the permits through the end of the year. A substitute motion was subsequently proposed to extend the permits until January 3rd, with the understanding that the City Manager could bring the item back to the Council if problems arose. The substitute motion was seconded. The Council voted on the substitute motion, which passed, thereby replacing the underlying motion. Following the vote, the City Manager confirmed that permits would be reviewed for compliance between the current date and June 15th, with extended permits issued to those requesting them.
Agenda Item 2: Second Budget Workshop (Capital Improvement Projects and Measure C)
- The City Manager presented a report on the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) and Measure C funding. The presentation detailed a projected budget of approximately $3 million for CIP projects, funded by Measure C (hotel tax), TOT transfers, grants, and other sources. Specific projects discussed included street paving ($906,000), the Active Transportation Project ($862,000, grant-funded), the Stewart Canyon Restoration Project ($508,000), and the Sarzotti Park multi-sport courts ($327,000). Other items included solar panels, fiber optic conduit, drainage improvements, sidewalk repairs, roof repairs, bike lanes, skate park shade structures, trolley stop improvements, and speed surveys.
- Council members and the public provided feedback on several points:
- Concerns were raised regarding a dumpster enclosure bottleneck at Sarzotti Park that could be exacerbated by the new courts; staff agreed to review potential modifications.
- Suggestions were made to integrate bike trail master plan considerations and in-stream flow studies into street overlay projects.
- A recommendation was made to hold a public hearing regarding bike lane proposals in the Arbolada area before implementation.
- Council members suggested adding electric bike charging stations, integrating solar into roofing projects, and installing a permanent restroom at the community garden/Libbey Park area into the five-year CIP plan.
- Clarification was requested on the classification of "maintenance" items within the CIP budget; staff agreed to relabel certain items (e.g., tree maintenance) as operating budget items or Measure C items rather than CIP.
- A request was made to separate "climate mitigation" and "fire protection" categories in future reports to better clarify emissions reduction and carbon sequestration efforts.
- No formal motion was made or voted upon during this item. The Council agreed to receive a revised presentation at a future workshop on June 8th to incorporate feedback and updated financial projections.
Agenda Item 3: General Plan Update (Vision and Guiding Principles)
- A consultant from Ramey and Associates presented the draft Vision and Guiding Principles statement for the General Plan update, which had been developed following public workshops and reviewed by the Planning Commission. The statement outlines the desired character of the community through 2045, focusing on land use, housing, transportation, and safety.
- Council members and the public expressed concerns regarding the adoption of the document at this time:
- Several Council members stated they were not ready to adopt the document without further deliberation, citing a need for clarification on specific language and a desire for more extensive community input.
- Public commenters suggested specific edits to the vision statement, including removing the word "quaint," adding references to historical roots, and emphasizing workforce housing and electric vehicle infrastructure.
- Concerns were raised regarding the lack of racial diversity in the document and the community engagement process.
- A suggestion was made to continue the item to allow Council members to submit written comments and revisions to staff, and to ensure the document is prominently posted for public comment. The Council agreed to defer adoption, with staff to collect feedback and present a revised version at a future meeting.
Agenda Item 4: Downtown Trolley Pilot Program
- The City Manager presented a proposal for a four-month pilot program for a special downtown trolley route, funded by federal sources at no cost to the city. The proposed route would operate on Saturdays only, connecting downtown businesses, hotels, and specific stops including Rancho Inn, Bank of America, the Ranger Station, Park Road, the Arcade, and various locations along Shady Lane and Fulton Street.
- Discussion included:
- A request to add a stop at Fire Stick Pottery; staff noted this was not included in the Chamber of Commerce's recommended route for the downtown express but could be considered after the trial period.
- Clarification that the regular trolley service would continue alongside this special Saturday route.
- Agreement to launch the four-month trial and report back to the Council with findings and potential route modifications at the conclusion of the pilot.
- No formal motion was recorded in this transcript segment, but the Council proceeded with the recommendation to implement the pilot program.
Agenda Item: Resolution Adoption (Firestick/Trolley Feasibility)
- Following a discussion regarding the feasibility of a trolley route, specifically concerning turnaround capabilities at the pottery location and Boardman access, a motion was made to adopt the resolution. The motion was seconded. A roll call vote was conducted, and the resolution passed.
Agenda Item: Earth-Friendly Management Policy
- This item, requested by the Mayor and a Council Member, concerned the adoption of a policy to eliminate the use of toxic chemicals, including herbicides, pesticides, and rodenticides, on city property.
- Discussion: Staff reported that the city has nearly eliminated herbicide and pesticide use, reserving them only for rare cases involving invasive weeds, and currently uses mechanical or electrical traps for rodents. Presenters argued for the policy to set an example for the community, citing health risks associated with chemicals like glyphosate (Roundup) and referencing similar policies in other cities.
- Council Inquiries and Concerns: Council members raised several points of inquiry and concern:
- Requests for specific data regarding current chemical usage in Ojai, including gallons purchased and application sites, were made.
- Questions were raised regarding the scientific consensus on glyphosate's classification as a carcinogen, with conflicting information cited regarding federal and state agency determinations.
- Concerns were expressed regarding the policy's broad language, specifically the lack of definitions for terms such as "insecticide" (potentially banning natural products like neem oil) and "synthetic fertilizers," and the potential impact on fire mitigation and invasive species control (e.g., Arundo donax and eucalyptus) in areas like Stewart Canyon.
- The scope of the policy regarding rodent management was debated, with some arguing that a ban on euthanasia could lead to disease spread, while others advocated for humane alternatives.
- The lack of a defined oversight committee structure, budget, and cost analysis for the proposed policy was noted.
- The presenters were asked to provide more Ojai-specific facts and data to substantiate the need for the policy.
- Public Comment: Several members of the public spoke in support of the policy, citing health concerns, the right to a non-toxic environment, and the city's role as a leader in sustainability. One speaker offered to volunteer as an interim coordinator. Another speaker expressed opposition to the release of trapped rodents due to disease risks. A third speaker requested a cost-benefit analysis and questioned the origin of the policy document.
- Outcome: No motion to adopt the policy was made or voted upon during this session. The discussion concluded with the understanding that the presenters would address the questions and concerns raised, including providing additional data and refining the policy language, before the item is brought back to the council for further consideration.
Agenda Item: City Manager's Report
- The City Manager provided updates on several matters:
- Ojai Quarry: A hearing on an amendment to the Ojai Quarry project is scheduled for May 27 at the Ventura County Planning Director level. The city intends to submit a comment letter. A Council Member noted that the proposed amendment would relieve the quarry operator of a requirement to provide 97,000 cubic yards of fill for the final reclamation plan.
- Emergency Preparedness Day: Scheduled for May 27 at 11 a.m. at Libbey Park, with an online option available.
- Housing Element: A meeting is scheduled for June 2 at 6 p.m. to discuss properties submitted for the affordable housing overlay.
- Sheriff's Department Agreement: The city has not yet received a revised agreement from the Sheriff's Department, though one was expected within a few weeks.
Agenda Item: Council Member Reports and Protocol Updates
- Council Protocol: A Council Member noted that the Council Protocol document requires updates to reflect recent ordinance changes, specifically correcting references from "Robert's Rules of Order" to "Rosenberg's Rules" and clarifying language regarding the mayoral appointment process and the nomination/confirmation process for commissions.
- Presentation Protocol: The Mayor reiterated the existing protocol that council members who place items on the agenda are responsible for presenting them, rather than relying on staff to prepare the presentation. A discussion ensued regarding whether experts could present on behalf of council members; it was clarified that under current protocols, the sponsoring council members must present, though experts may speak during public comment.
- Future Agenda Items: A Council Member suggested adding the following items to the next agenda:
- Resolution of the continued item regarding the BAB fire hardening measures task.
- Follow-up on the tiny home pilot project term sheet.
- Development and adoption of an official emergency preparedness and disaster plan.
Adjournment
- The meeting concluded with closing remarks from the City Clerk. No further agenda items were discussed, moved, seconded, or decided.