City Council — 2021-09-28

Meeting Summary

Present: Stix

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Council approved the Stantec bid to conduct a thorough street survey.
Members discussed expanding scope to include sidewalks and parking lot assessments.
The contract includes Option 5 for GIS software to improve data access.

Staff presented the draft Housing Element targeting final adoption by October 15.
City Attorney clarified state law restrictions on accessory dwelling unit requirements.
Staff will revise language regarding building heights before the October 12 hearing.

The City Council reviewed 15 fire hardening recommendations from the Building Appeals Board (BAB). Staff presented the recommendations but noted no ordinance or detailed analysis is ready yet; Council direction is needed on implementation methods (e.g., ordinance, code enforcement, incentives).
Public Comment: Speakers expressed concern over tying fire hardening to real estate sales (burdening sellers), the lack of definitions for "combustible," and conflicts between fire safety (e.g., removing trees) and heritage tree protections. Several speakers advocated for incentives ("carrots") rather than mandates ("sticks") and voluntary compliance programs like "Ready, Set, Go." Specific concerns were raised regarding attic smoke detectors (overloading 911), deck skirting requirements, and mulch accumulation.
Council Discussion & Action: Council members agreed to move cautiously, prioritizing community engagement and common sense. They directed staff to analyze costs and enforcement options, distinguishing between items that can be addressed quickly via code enforcement and those requiring broader community discussion. Staff will present a phased implementation plan and short-term actions by October 26.

Staff recommended approving a bid from Stantec ($69,998) to conduct a thorough street survey and update the Pavement Management Plan. Using technology like lasers and ground-penetrating radar, the plan aims to prioritize preventative maintenance and optimize funding.
Public Comment: A resident from North Drown Avenue reported dangerous road conditions and speeding, requesting speed humps and sidewalks.
Council Discussion & Action: The Council discussed expanding the scope to include sidewalks, curbs, gutters, and parking lot assessments to reduce future change orders. A motion was passed to approve the Stantec contract, including Option 5 (GIS software for $3,500) to improve data access. Staff is also directed to assess Drown Street and parking lots for the Consent Calendar.

Staff presented the draft Housing Element, noting positive feedback from the state regarding previous revisions. The goal is final adoption by the October 15 deadline.
Public Comment: Concerns were raised regarding vague language potentially allowing three-story buildings (conflicting with height limits) and the lack of amnesty for unpermitted accessory dwelling units (ADUs), which could discourage compliance due to high fees. One speaker emphasized that tiny house units must be guaranteed affordable.
Council Discussion & Action: The City Attorney clarified that state law restricts local owner-occupancy requirements for ADUs and allows height bonuses for affordability. Council members noted that three-story buildings already exist but agreed to clarify the language to match existing codes. Staff was directed to revise the document accordingly before the public hearing and adoption scheduled for October 12.

City Manager: Confirmed a plan is in place to manage road work on Maricopa/Slip Lane to minimize detours during the Music Festival. Sierra Canyon Phase 2 cleanup will kick off next week.
Mayor: Announced a donation of a Peace Bell written in Chumash, Spanish, English, and Mandarin. Congratulated the Ojai Music Festival on its 75th Anniversary.
Other: The Budget Committee is scheduled to meet mid-October. A lighting issue during the meeting was noted for resolution.