Meeting Summary
Present: 5-Basua, Perala, 6-Perez, 4-Rodríguez, 3-Starr, 2-Teran, Arthur
This summary was AI-generated to save you time. It may miss or misstate details — verify against the official recording and the transcript.
At a glance
Closed Session
- The Council recessed to discuss the potential initiation of litigation.
- A unanimous vote directed the City Attorney to initiate legal action.
- Specific defendants and case particulars remain sealed pending service and settlement conditions.
Ceremonial Proclamations
- The Council designated June 12 as Philippine Independence Day and June 20 as Juneteenth Celebration Day.
- June 2026 was officially proclaimed as Pride Month to recognize LGBTQ+ history and contributions.
- Representatives from relevant community organizations accepted the proclamations on behalf of their groups.
Library Board Appointment
- The Council approved the appointment of Sahara Pena as an at-large member to the City Library Board.
- No public comment was received regarding the nomination prior to the vote.
Paramedic Internship Agreement Amendment
- The Council approved a first amendment to the five-year paramedic internship agreement with the University of California.
- The Fire Chief noted the program serves as a recruitment tool hosting five to six interns annually.
- One council member recused themselves from the vote on this item.
Mandalay Beach Maintenance District Assessments
- The Council approved the resolution to levy fiscal year 2026-27 assessments for the Mandalay Beach Maintenance District.
- Staff clarified that assessments are itemized on property tax bills despite no specific public noticing for home purchases.
- One council member voted against the recommendation citing a lack of recent voter approval for the special tax.
Fiscal Year 2026-27 Budget Public Hearing
- A public hearing was held on the proposed budget, highlighting structural balance and the restoration of reserves.
- Staff noted changes to Capital Improvement Project priorities requiring re-appropriation for street and alley work.
- The hearing was closed without a final vote on budget adoption during this segment.
Capital Improvement Program Prioritization
- Staff identified top funding priorities as neighborhood street resurfacing, citywide alley reconstruction, and arterial street resurfacing.
- Discussion focused on phasing projects to maintain the Pavement Condition Index and achieve economies of scale.
- No formal motion was made regarding the specific project list during this segment.
Supplemental Budget Requests
- Staff presented requests for recreation labor, youth summer programs, arts academy funding, and police psychological services.
- Additional funding was requested for community development overtime and public works alley maintenance.
- Council members expressed support for youth and public safety initiatives while questioning the distinction from the base budget.
Budget Process and Authority
- A debate occurred regarding the Council's authority to approve grand totals versus specific line items.
- Staff explained that the standard manager-council form allows operational flexibility while maintaining oversight through total thresholds.
- The budget book was cited as containing the detailed breakdowns available for public review.
Police Electronic Citation Printers
- The Police Chief reported that new electronic citation printers could reduce issuance time from 10 to 4 minutes.
- Council members debated the return on investment for this equipment compared to social programs.
- No formal vote was taken on this specific item during the meeting.
Oxnard Navigation Center Operating Agreement
- The Council approved an agreement with Mercy House Living Centers to operate the Navigation Center for fiscal year 2026-27.
- Mercy House received the highest score in the Request for Proposal process compared to other bidders.
- Council members discussed the effectiveness of the "housing-first" model, with one member expressing opposition.
Senate Bill 1 Road Maintenance Project List
- The Council adopted the fiscal year 2026-27 project list for the Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation Account.
- The resolution authorizes the City Manager to take necessary actions to implement the funded projects.
La Colonia Alley Reconstruction Agreement
- The Council approved an agreement with Toro Enterprises, Inc. for the La Colonia Neighborhood Alley Reconstruction project.
- The project is authorized for a total not-to-exceed value of $6,488,559 including a 10% contingency.
- Staff indicated this agreement represents Phase One of a multi-year plan for citywide alleyway resurfacing.
Landscape Maintenance District Assessments
- The Council approved resolutions to initiate proceedings for levying fiscal year 2026-27 assessments on Landscape Maintenance Districts.
- A public hearing on the matter is scheduled for June 16, 2026.
- One council member disclosed their status as a property owner and stated an intention to vote against the action.
Rental Vehicle Agreement
- The Council approved an annual contract with BTR for rental vehicles with a total not-to-exceed amount of $8,400,000.
- Discussion focused on vehicle specifications, including joystick-operated arms to reduce driver fatigue.
- Staff confirmed an option to purchase vehicles exists but noted renewing the lease may be more beneficial.
Full summary
Meeting Call to Order and Administrative Matters
- The Oxnard City Council meeting was called to order on Monday, June 1, 2026. The City Clerk confirmed that Councilwoman Gabriela Basua was participating remotely from Dallas, Texas, in compliance with California Government Code Section 54953B. The Clerk verified the posting of the agenda and amended agenda, confirmed the remote participant's ability to hear proceedings and access materials, and noted that no public members were present at the remote location. The Clerk advised that all votes would be taken by roll call.
Closed Session
- The Council recessed to a closed session pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9, subdivision D4, to discuss the potential initiation of litigation. Upon reconvening, the City Attorney reported that the Council, by a unanimous vote, directed the City Attorney to initiate legal action. The specific defendants and particulars of the action were to remain sealed subject to conditions regarding service of process and settlement negotiations.
Joint Meeting with Oxnard Housing Authority
- The meeting continued as a joint session with the Oxnard Housing Authority. The City Clerk conducted a roll call for both bodies. Compensation of $50 was announced for present Housing Authority commissioners, with the exception of Commissioner Starr, who declined payment. Councilwoman Basua announced a temporary departure from the meeting.
Ceremonial Items
- Pledge of Allegiance: Led by Cesar Tapia, a Youth Directors Council member, who shared his academic and community service goals and received a certificate.
- Philippine Independence Day Proclamation: The Council designated June 12, 2026, as Philippine Independence Day, recognizing the history and contributions of Filipino immigrants in Ventura County. Representatives from the Filipino-American Council of Ventura County accepted the proclamation.
- Juneteenth Celebration Proclamation: The Council designated June 20, 2026, as Juneteenth Celebration Day, acknowledging the historical significance of the date and the 35th anniversary of the local celebration. Representatives from the Juneteenth Celebration of Ventura County accepted the proclamation.
- Pride Month Proclamation: The Council designated June 2026 as Pride Month, recognizing the history of the LGBTQ+ community in Oxnard and the significance of the Stonewall riots. Representatives from Diversity Collective Ventura County, Oxnard College, Obsidian, and MICOP accepted the proclamation.
- Following the proclamations, Council members and the Mayor Pro Tem made statements regarding the importance of supporting the Filipino-American, African American, and LGBTQ+ communities.
Public Comments on Items Not on the Agenda
- Seven speakers addressed the Council on matters not appearing on the agenda. Topics included a request to utilize Carnegie Art Museum boardrooms for neurodivergent artists; reports on excessive vehicle noise and requests for police surveillance; concerns regarding the Wilson Neighborhood Council's handling of a committee and permit filings; updates on ICE activity; comments on the proclamations emphasizing support for mistreated communities; and a discussion on the history of LGBTQ+ rights in Ventura County.
City Manager's Report
- The City Manager announced the annual Oxnard Insect Festival scheduled for the following Saturday. Assistant Police Chief Rocky Marquez presented information on Elder and Disability Abuse Awareness Month, reporting 31 investigated cases of physical elder abuse in 2025 and encouraging the public to report suspected abuse. Council Member Perala inquired about conviction numbers, which the Chief stated were not available but noted a collaborative relationship with the District Attorney's office.
Council Member Reports
- Council members provided updates on recent activities, including the commissioning of an art mural, attendance at green energy events, and Neighborhood Council meetings. Concerns were raised regarding illegal dumping, alleyway maintenance, and the upcoming election. Members discussed the Endless Wave Skate Park groundbreaking, the Progress Pride flag raising, and the Memorial Day ceremony. Issues regarding loud vehicle exhaust pipes were noted with a request for continued enforcement. One member requested staff to explore a moratorium on using commercial office space for federal detainee holding cells and requested updates on e-bike ordinances. Another member addressed questions regarding the prioritization of the skate park versus housing issues, clarifying the use of grant funding for the skate park. A pilot protected bike path on Woolley Road was acknowledged.
Library Board Appointment
- The City Clerk recommended the appointment of Sahara Pena as an at-large member to the City Library Board. No public comment was received. A motion was made and seconded to approve the appointment. The motion passed.
Consent Agenda
- The Council reviewed the consent agenda. One council member recused themselves from Item L3 due to a potential conflict of interest. Council Member Starr requested that Item L3 be pulled from the consent agenda for separate discussion. No other items were pulled, and no public comment was received on the remaining items. A motion was made and seconded to approve the remaining consent agenda items. The motion passed.
Item L3: Affiliation Agreement with the Regents of the University of California
- The Council discussed a first amendment to the paramedic internship agreement between the City of Oxnard and the Regents of the University of California for a five-year period. The Fire Chief noted the program typically hosts five to six interns annually and serves as a recruitment tool. One council member recused themselves from the vote. A motion was made and seconded to approve the first amendment. The motion passed.
Item M1: Mandalay Beach Maintenance District Assessments
- A public hearing was held regarding the fiscal year 2026-27 resolution to levy assessments in the Mandalay Beach Maintenance District. The City Clerk certified the publication of legal notice and reported no written communications or public speakers. During deliberation, one council member stated an intention to vote against the recommendation, citing the lack of a recent voter opportunity to approve the special tax assessment. Another member questioned the binding nature of taxes on residents who did not vote on the original approval. Staff clarified that while there is no specific public noticing requirement for home purchases in this district, the assessment is itemized on property tax bills. A motion was made and seconded to approve the resolution to levy the assessments. The motion passed.
Item M2: Fiscal Year 2026-27 Proposed Budget Public Hearing
- A public hearing was conducted on the proposed fiscal year 2026-27 budget for the City of Oxnard and the Oxnard Housing Authority. The City Clerk certified the publication of legal notice and reported one written communication from SEIU. Staff presented an overview highlighting the city's structural balance, restoration of reserves, and use of one-time funds. Staff noted changes to Capital Improvement Project (CIP) priorities made on May 19, requiring re-appropriation for street resurfacing and alleyway reconstruction. No public speakers appeared. During deliberation, one council member expressed opposition to the current budget approval process, arguing for departmental approval rather than a grand total. Other members explained that detailed departmental budgets are available in the public budget book and that the current process is standard. Staff sought direction regarding the use of the anticipated general fund balance. The public hearing was closed, and no final vote on budget adoption was taken in this segment.
Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Funding and Prioritization
- Staff presented an update on the CIP, noting a recommended funding amount of approximately $17.8 million from the General Fund and Measure O. Staff clarified that the $12.7 million available fund balance is subject to Council appropriation. Discussion focused on prioritizing projects, with staff identifying top priorities as Neighborhood Street Resurfacing ($1.8 million), Citywide Alley Resurfacing/Reconstruction ($4.3 million), and Arterial Street Resurfacing ($7.2 million). Staff advised that funding projects in phases is necessary to maintain the Pavement Condition Index and achieve economies of scale. Council members discussed trade-offs between fully funding the top projects versus including others. No formal motion was made regarding the specific CIP project list during this segment.
Supplemental Budget Requests
- Staff presented supplemental requests from various departments to be funded from the available General Fund balance. Items discussed included $110,000 for Recreation to maintain labor hours and wages; $100,000 for Youth Development summer programs; $30,000 for the Oxnard Arts Academy; funding for Police Department psychological services; $30,000 for Community Development overtime related to code compliance; and $860,000 for Public Works alley maintenance. Council members expressed support for youth programming, recreation, and public safety wellness initiatives. Concerns were raised regarding the distinction between supplemental requests and the base operating budget. Staff clarified that senior nutrition funding for the current fiscal year is secure.
Budget Process and Authority Discussion
- A debate occurred regarding the City Council's authority in the budget process. One council member questioned whether the Council was approving grand totals rather than specific line items, arguing this limits authority. Staff and other members explained the standard manager-council form of government, noting that the budget book contains detailed breakdowns and that the Council sets total thresholds for each fund. Staff emphasized that large inter-departmental transfers are rare and that the current process allows for operational flexibility while maintaining oversight.
Motion to Extend Meeting
- A motion was made to extend the meeting past 10:00 p.m. The motion was seconded. The motion passed unanimously.
Police Department Electronic Citation Printers
- Council members inquired about the efficiency gains from purchasing electronic citation printers. The Police Chief stated the equipment is estimated to reduce citation issuance time from 10 minutes to 4 minutes. No formal vote was taken on this specific item during this segment.
Budget Adjustments and Capital Improvement Projects
- Discussion continued regarding the allocation of remaining budget funds. Council members debated the return on investment for various proposals, including electronic citation printers versus social programs. The Mayor proposed focusing on capital improvement projects, recreational items, and police citation printers to utilize the available $12.7 million. Staff indicated these items would be included in the proposed budget for the upcoming meeting. A question was raised regarding potential damage to garbage trucks from overgrown trees in alleys; staff agreed to provide further information. No formal motion or vote was taken on budget adjustments during this segment.
Item N1: Oxnard Navigation Center Operating Agreement with Mercy House
- The Council considered an agreement with Mercy House Living Centers to operate the Oxnard Navigation Center for fiscal year 2026-27, with a total amount not to exceed $3,235,242.56, including four one-year extension options. The Housing Director explained that Mercy House received the highest score in the Request for Proposal process compared to the National Health Foundation. A council member requested that future reports include the scoring matrix; staff noted that specific scoring cards are generally not released due to competitive bid protocols, though bid amounts could be provided. Public comment was received from a virtual speaker questioning the bidding process and cost. Mercy House representatives addressed the council, describing their "housing-first" model and commitment to local staffing and transparency. Council members discussed the effectiveness of the program, with one member expressing opposition to the "housing-first" model. A motion was made to approve the agreement and authorize the Mayor to execute it. The motion was seconded. The vote resulted in the motion passing.
Item N2: Senate Bill 1 Local Streets and Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation Account (RMRA) Project List
- The Council considered a resolution to adopt the fiscal year 2026-27 project list for the Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation Account, funded by Senate Bill 1 revenues. No public comment was received. A motion was made to adopt the resolution and authorize the City Manager to take necessary actions. The motion was seconded. The vote resulted in the motion passing.
Item N3: Public Project Agreement with Toro Enterprises, Inc. for La Colonia Alley Reconstruction
- The Council considered an agreement with Toro Enterprises, Inc. for the Citywide Alleyway Resurfacing and La Colonia Neighborhood Alley Reconstruction project. The agreement authorized a total project amount of $5,898,690, with a 10% contingency, for a total not-to-exceed value of $6,488,559. A council member inquired about the inclusion of all alleys in the La Colonia neighborhood; staff indicated this was Phase One of a multi-year plan. No public comment was received. A motion was made to approve the agreement and authorize the Mayor to execute it. The motion was seconded. The vote resulted in the motion passing.
Item N4: Landscape Maintenance Districts (LMD) Assessments for Fiscal Year 2026-27
- The Council considered initiating proceedings to levy assessments against real property for the Landscape Maintenance Districts for fiscal year 2026-27. This included adopting a resolution to initiate proceedings, approving a consolidated engineer's report, and declaring the intention to levy assessments, with a public hearing scheduled for June 16, 2026. A council member residing in LMD 13 sought clarification on conflict of interest rules; the City Attorney advised that the member may participate as their interest is indistinguishable from other homeowners and the assessment formula is not changing. One council member disclosed their status as a property owner subject to the assessment and stated they would vote against the recommended action. A motion was made to approve the resolutions. The motion was seconded. The vote resulted in the motion passing.
Item N5: Agreement for Rental Vehicles with BTR
- The Council considered an agreement for an annual contract amount of $2,800,000 for rental vehicles, with an initial term of one year and options for two consecutive one-year extensions, for a total not-to-exceed amount of $8,400,000. A council member inquired about the option to purchase the vehicles at the end of the lease term; staff confirmed the option exists but noted that purchasing may not be in the city's best interest compared to renewing the lease. Discussion focused on vehicle specifications, including joystick-operated arms to reduce driver fatigue, and procurement savings achieved through the Sourcewell cooperative agreement. A motion to approve the item was made and seconded. The motion passed.
Adjournment
- With no further questions, comments, or items for the future agenda, the meeting was adjourned without objection.