City Council — 2022-09-27

Cottages Development Project

• Council debated a 30-day extension request regarding the Mallory Way cottages development.
• Legal counsel warned that denying the request could trigger costly litigation within 90 days.
• Members expressed concerns over historic character and the adequacy of affordable housing replacement.
• The hearing was continued to October 25th to allow for further negotiation.

Soule Park Programming Partnership

• Staff proposed an agreement with Ventura County to remove public gate fees at the facility.
• The City would pay $58,000 annually for discounts on rentals and a lease option for pickleball courts.
• Discussion covered community concerns regarding paddle tennis courts and potential overcrowding.
• The Council approved the proposal and directed staff to finalize the agreement.

• The Ojai City Council meeting covered two primary agenda items: a long-standing dispute regarding the "Cottages" development project (Becker Group) and a partnership proposal for Soule Park programming with Ventura County.

Item 1: The Cottages Development Project

• The Council deliberated extensively on a 30-day extension request from the developers regarding the Mallory Way cottages. Key points included:
• Conflict: The debate centered on balancing affordable housing requirements, historic preservation, and the risk of eviction versus costly litigation. Council members expressed frustration over the project's eight-year history and the lack of very low-income housing options.
• Legal Advice: The City Attorney and outside counsel warned that a denial would trigger a short 90-day statute of limitations for lawsuits, potentially hardening positions ("mutually assured destruction"). They argued a 30-day pause could allow for renewed negotiation without legal pressure.
• Concerns: Council members worried about the loss of historic character, the potential for eviction of current tenants, and the adequacy of the affordable housing replacement plan. Public testimony highlighted the importance of the current cottages to long-term residents.
• Decision: Despite initial calls to deny the request due to a lack of progress, the Council voted to continue the hearing to the October 25th meeting. This grants a 30-day period for further negotiation between the City's ad hoc committee and the developer's counsel.

Item 2: Soule Park Programming Partnership

• Staff presented a proposal to partner with Ventura County to improve access and programming at Soule Park (off Boardman Road).
• Proposal Details: The City would pay the County $58,000 annually to eliminate public gate fees. In return, the City would receive a 50% discount on facility rentals for recreation programs and an option to lease space to build pickleball courts under City control.
• Public Testimony:
• Support: Many residents welcomed the removal of entrance fees and the potential for new pickleball facilities at Soule Park. Several speakers argued against converting courts at Libbey Park due to noise concerns in a residential area.
• Opposition/Concerns: Paddle tennis players expressed concern that their private-funded courts at Soule Park might be converted to pickleball. Some residents worried that eliminating fees might lead to overcrowding or abuse of the space.
• Council Discussion: Council members debated whether the Parks and Recreation Commission should weigh in first on the details. Some argued $58,000 could be spent directly on courts instead of subsidizing a County park. Others emphasized the partnership as a necessary framework to enable recreation leagues (e.g., softball) that currently lack facilities.
• Decision: The Council approved the proposal (3 Yes, 1 No, 1 Abstain). Staff will finalize the agreement with the County.

Item 3: Winter Schedule and Adjournment

• Following the vote on Soule Park, the Council moved to the Winter Schedule. Due to the meeting running past 10:30 PM, the Mayor adjourned the meeting.