Meeting Summary
Present: Stix, Whitman, Rule, Francina, Lang
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At a glance
Libby Bowl Management and Operating Agreement
- Staff presented a four-year management agreement with Ojai Valley Music LLC featuring a tiered booking system.
- Discussion addressed contract clarity, cost adjustments, and the feasibility of an external expert review.
- The Council approved the agreement with amendments including a one-year review and a profit-sharing incentive.
Tree Ordinance Concept Review
- Staff requested direction on expanding protections and permit requirements for tree removal.
- Public suggestions included creating a Tree Committee and protecting saplings from removal.
- The Council directed staff to continue research regarding hazardous trees and contractor certification.
Closed Session
- The Assistant City Attorney reported on a prior closed session regarding a defense request for Council Member Rule.
- Discussion focused on discrepancies between previous motion language and the resulting documentation.
- No motion was taken to grant the defense or indemnity during this meeting.
Full summary
Call to Order and Attendance
- The meeting was called to order with a quorum present. A roll call confirmed the attendance of the Mayor, Mayor Pro Tem, and four Council Members. Council Member Lange participated remotely under Assembly Bill 2449 pursuant to a "just cause" exemption related to a contagious illness. The Council provided consent for remote participation.
Agenda Approval
- A motion was made and seconded to approve the agenda. The motion passed.
Assistant City Attorney Report
- The Assistant City Attorney reported on a prior closed session meeting regarding a request for defense and indemnity for Council Member Rule. The report noted that in a previous vote, the Council had determined there was no legal obligation to defend or indemnify the Council Member. A motion to grant the defense request had not been voted upon. During this discussion, Council Members questioned the documentation provided regarding the motion language versus the result of the motion.
Public Comment
- Public comments were received on several topics.
- Recreation and Parks: Speakers discussed the resignation of the Recreation and Parks Director. Comments included suggestions for administrative leave for the departing director, the appointment of an interim director, and the need to heal within the department. One speaker suggested the Council appoint a community member to the position temporarily.
- Homeless Housing/Cabin Village: Speakers expressed concerns regarding safety, liability, and quality of life related to the homeless housing project at Encanto. Some requested the Council reconsider the location and review the project again in light of new data regarding safety incidents. Council Members clarified that recent security measures and agreements were intended to address prior issues, and that the project utilizes a stabilization-first model.
- General Policy: Additional comments addressed the lack of transparency in closed sessions, indemnification precedents, and the City's tree ordinances.
Consent Calendar
- A motion was made and seconded to approve the consent calendar. The motion passed.
Item 2: Libby Bowl Management and Operating Agreement
- Staff Report: The City Manager and Assistant City Attorney presented a negotiated four-year agreement with Ojai Valley Music LLC (OVM) for the management and operation of the Libby Bowl. The contract includes a tiered booking system, a $2,500 fee per event, and provisions for community legacy events. Discussion: Public comment raised concerns regarding the contract term, the lack of a cost-of-living adjustment, the need for an expert review, and contract clarity regarding the OVM's role as manager versus operator. Speakers suggested a six-month or one-year review period and the inclusion of performance incentives. Council Members discussed the feasibility of external expert review, the impact of delay on the booking schedule, and the specifics of traffic and bike valet management. Amendment and Motion: Council Member Rule moved to approve the contract, subject to specific amendments discussed during the meeting, including a profit-sharing incentive where 10% of net earnings exceeding $150,000 annually would go toward a Libby Bowl fund, and the establishment of a one-year review period. The motion was seconded. Decision: The amended motion passed.
Item 3: Tree Ordinance Concept Review
- Staff Report: The Community Development Director presented a concept review regarding potential revisions to the City's Tree Ordinance. The report outlined concerns regarding the removal of hazardous trees without replacement, trimming practices by unqualified individuals, and the scope of protected trees (currently oaks, sycamores, and heritage trees). Staff requested direction on expanding protections, permit requirements, and replacement ratios. Discussion: Public comment included suggestions to establish a Tree Committee, protect saplings and young trees, address the impact of insurance requirements on tree removal, and distinguish between invasive and native species. Council Members expressed support for protecting the tree canopy, exploring financial assistance for residents unable to manage hazardous trees, and considering a mandatory certification process for tree service contractors. Decision: No motion was made. The Council directed staff to continue research and bring forward further recommendations at a future meeting. The Council noted interest in exploring the creation of a Tree Committee and addressing the "baby tree" protection component.
Council Member Reports
- Council Member Lange: Reported on the Economic Development Collaborative regarding disaster loans for businesses affected by the mountain fire and new fire maps.
- Council Member Francina: Reported on the Ventura County Animal Services Commission meeting and announced an upcoming forum regarding the City and County relationship.
- Council Member Rule: Reported on the condition of the Matilija Dam, noting its failing state and ongoing efforts to address it.
- Council Member Whitman: Reported on a tour of the base of the dam.
- Mayor Sticks: Encouraged support for the Ojai Playhouse.
City Manager Report
- The City Manager announced holiday closure schedules. City Hall and Recreation facilities will be closed for Thanksgiving and the week of Christmas (December 23–27), with Public Safety remaining operational and a skeleton crew for Public Works.
Future Agenda Items
- The Council identified a potential future agenda item regarding responses to vibrations caused by SpaceX activities.
Adjournment
- The meeting was adjourned.