February 12, 2026 — Historic Preservation Commission Regular Meeting

Meeting Summary

Present: Mang, Moore, Walker, Aikens, Visasa

This summary was AI-generated to save you time. It may miss or misstate details — verify against the official recording and the transcript.

Staff presented a request to install generators and propane tanks on a city landmark.
Commissioners questioned the landscaping plan and equipment visibility.
The applicant confirmed native plant usage and arborist consultation.
A motion passed to allow the permit to proceed as proposed.

Staff proposed a new award to recognize civic pride contributions outside preservation criteria.
Discussion covered selection board composition and award frequency.
The item was continued to the March agenda for further comment.
Commissioners agreed to submit feedback to staff prior to the next meeting.

City Attorney presented training on public records laws and commission responsibilities.
Commissioners inquired about social media usage and quorum requirements.
Legal counsel advised caution regarding discussions of business outside meetings.
No motions were taken during this educational segment.

The meeting commenced with a roll call and the Pledge of Allegiance. A motion was made and seconded to approve the agenda. The motion passed.

The Chair opened the floor for public comment regarding items not on the agenda. No public comments were received, and the period was closed.

Staff provided an update on a new museum exhibit titled "100 Years of Ojai Women." The report included details regarding the exhibit's content, bilingual format, and related town talks. No action was taken on this item.

Commissioners reviewed the minutes from the previous meeting. Corrections were proposed regarding the spelling of a commissioner's name and the attribution of specific comments made during prior business. A motion was made and seconded to accept the minutes with the stated corrections. The motion passed.

Staff presented a report on a request for a minor work permit (WP 250009) for the property known as West Ways, City Landmark No. 25. The proposal involved the installation of two generators with propane tanks on concrete pads, screened by landscaping.
Commissioners questioned the applicant regarding the proposed landscaping, specifically inquiring about native plant species and the visibility of the generators relative to character-defining features. The applicant explained that the location was selected to minimize visibility from public view lines while ensuring access and utility for fire safety and water booster systems. The applicant confirmed that while some proposed trees (dwarf olive) were not native to the specific valley, native coffeeberry and toyon were included, and the placement was determined in consultation with a local arborist.
A motion was made and seconded to allow the permit to proceed as proposed. The motion passed.

Staff presented information regarding a proposal to create a new "Edward Drummond Libby Ojai City Beautiful Award." The proposal intended to recognize contributions to civic pride and community betterment that may not fit existing Historic Preservation Commission award criteria.
Discussion focused on potential criteria, the frequency of the award, and the composition of a selection board, with suggestions that it include members from the Historic Preservation, Planning, and Arts Commissions. A motion was made and seconded to continue the item to the March agenda, with commissioners submitting comments to staff prior to that meeting. The motion passed.

The City Attorney conducted a presentation regarding the Ralph M. Brown Act, public records laws, and the roles and responsibilities of commission members. Topics included serial meetings, social media usage, quorum requirements, and specific duties of the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC), including work permit reviews and appeals.
Commissioners asked questions regarding residency requirements for quorums, social gatherings, and communication protocols with City Council and staff. The Attorney advised caution regarding discussions of agendized business outside of meetings to avoid Brown Act violations. No motions or votes were taken during this segment.

The Chair provided a brief update on previous community outreach documents. No further action or discussion was held on this item.

Minute Secretary: It was noted that the HPC is required to have a commissioner take minutes. The role was discussed for rotation, and it was determined that assigning a new minute secretary would be placed on the March 12 agenda.
Contract Consultant: Staff reported that a consultant contract was currently being reviewed by the City Attorney's office. No action was required at this meeting.
Joint Council Meeting: Dates for upcoming joint meetings with City Council were discussed.
School District: A commissioner inquired about the procedure for HPC involvement regarding potential projects by the school district affecting historic landmarks. Staff clarified that the Commission must be notified if a project impacts a landmark, but no specific project was currently before the body. The discussion was tabled until a formal item arises.
Ad Hoc Committee: The Chair reported on progress made with an ad hoc committee working with City Council to align on commission functions and powers. A meeting was scheduled to continue this work.