City Council — July 30, 2026

Ballot Measure E Litigation

• The City Attorney presented matters regarding potential litigation and defense strategies for Ballot Measure E.
• A public speaker argued the city lacks standing to sue challengers and urged recusal for candidates.
• The Council directed the City Attorney to defend any actions brought regarding the measure's materials.
• The motion to direct the defense was passed 6-0.

FoodShare Informational Update

• FoodShare CEO Monica White presented hunger statistics and operational details for Ventura County and Oxnard.
• The organization reported distributing 23 million pounds of food in the county and 8.2 million pounds in Oxnard.
• White outlined the construction of a new 12-acre facility at 1425 Mariner Drive with a $50 million cost.
• Council members asked questions regarding pantry allocation, overhead ratios, and volunteer registration.

America 250 Event Commendations

• The Council presented Certificates of Commendation to performers and groups participating in the July 3rd event.
• Recipients included the Naval Base Ventura County Color Guard, local cultural associations, and various dance groups.
• The Mayor also recognized the Oxnard Downtowners Foundation and the Port of Hueneme for their contributions.
• A posthumous certificate was presented to Peggy Rivera for her service on the Commission on Homelessness.

Seawall Repairs Funding

• The Council reviewed a request for $232,000 in additional contingency funding for the Mandalay Bay seawalls.
• Public Works Director Mike Wolfe explained that regulatory permits for foundation repairs have been secured.
• The funding allows the city to proceed with additive bid items to minimize public disruption.
• The item was approved with a vote of 7-0.

E-Bike Ordinance

• The Council reviewed an ordinance regulating e-bikes, including safety classes, helmet requirements, and fines.
• Staff clarified that enforcement begins in 2027, with an initial education phase and a phase-in period.
• The Council debated the scope of employee exemptions and the timeline for completing safety courses.
• The ordinance was adopted with amendments making the safety class permanent for first-time offenders and mandating citation dismissal upon completion.

Santa Clara River Levee Funding

• The Council authorized a funding agreement of up to $2.36 million with the Ventura County Watershed Protection District.
• The funds cover the city's share of the Santa Clara River Levee 3 project, which is 80-90% complete.
• The project aims to provide flood protection for approximately 6,000 homes in the Southern SCR3 levee system.
• The resolution to authorize the funding agreement was passed 6-0.

Neighborhood Street Resurfacing Project

• The Council reviewed a public project agreement with Toro Enterprises for the Cal Gisler neighborhood.
• The project involves street resurfacing, localized repairs, and ADA improvements scheduled to begin in August 2026.
• Funding sources include Measure O, General Fund, and utility funds for manhole adjustments.
• The motion to approve the project agreement was moved and seconded, with the vote outcome not explicitly recorded in the provided text.

Bond Sale

• The Council addressed the timing and execution of the upcoming bond sale.
• Engineering Division Manager Asita Vithanagi introduced herself and discussed her involvement in Capital Improvement Program projects.
• The motion regarding the bond sale was put to a vote.
• The motion carried with a vote of 7-0.

Closed Session

• The City Attorney presented matters for closed session under Government Code Section 54956.9.
• Topics included conferencing on Douglas Partello v. Lourdes Lopez et al. and potential litigation.
• The session also addressed litigation exposure related to November 2026 Ballot Measure E arguments.
• The Council directed the City Attorney to defend the city regarding the Ballot Measure E materials.

Closed Session (Government Code Section 54956.9)

• The City Attorney presented three matters for closed session: conferencing regarding Douglas Partello v. Lourdes Lopez et al., deciding whether to initiate litigation in a potential case, and addressing litigation exposure related to November 2026 Ballot Measure E arguments and materials. One public speaker, representing "Moving Oxnard Forward," stated that the city lacks standing to sue challengers, argued that council members up for election should recuse themselves from related litigation decisions, and noted that the group had agreed to the City Clerk’s recommendations regarding filing mistakes. Following the closed session, the City Attorney reported that the Council directed the City Attorney to defend any actions brought regarding the Ballot Measure E materials. The motion to direct the City Attorney to defend the city was passed (6-0). Councilman Starr was absent.

Presentation by FoodShare (Item D1)

• Monica White, CEO of FoodShare, provided an informational update on hunger statistics in Ventura County and Oxnard, detailing the distribution of 23 million pounds of food in the county and 8.2 million pounds in Oxnard. She outlined the organization’s operations through 200 non-profit partners in the county and 63 in Oxnard, and described the construction of a new 12-acre facility at 1425 Mariner Drive with a total project cost of $50 million. Council members asked questions regarding pantry allocation systems, overhead ratios, and volunteer registration. No motion was taken; the item was for informational purposes.

Pledge of Allegiance and Special Presentation

• Assistant City Manager Eric Selser announced a major HVAC issue and power outage in the building. Councilwoman Rodriguez introduced Natalia Cervantes, a student at Oxnard Middle College High School, to lead the Pledge of Allegiance. Cervantes spoke about her involvement with the In Lak’ech Cultural Arts Center and other community activities. Dr. Javier Gomez and students from the In Lak’ech Cultural Arts Center performed mariachi music and folklorico dance. The City Council presented a Certificate of Commendation to Dr. Gomez and the students for their cultural contribution to the "America 250 Star Striped Sounds" event. No vote was taken.

Certificates of Commendation for America 250 Event Performers

• The City Council presented Certificates of Commendation to various groups for their participation in the "America 250 Star Striped Sounds" event held on July 3rd at Plaza Park. Recipients included the Color Guard from Naval Base Ventura County, Sisters Friends Forever, Pinay Friends, the La Union Association of Ventura County & Filipino-American Council of Ventura County, the International Cultural Association of California (ICAC), Use Your Gift (UYG), vocalist Sade Champagne, Kealoha & Company and Expressions of the Pacific, and the Tlaxcala Group (Camada Union). Representatives from each group accepted the certificates. No vote was taken.

Commendations and Recognitions

• The Mayor presented certificates of commendation to the Oxnard Downtowners Foundation, specifically acknowledging Matt Wycombe and Gary Blum for their collaboration on the July 3rd event. The Mayor also presented a commendation to the Port of Hueneme, represented by Chair Jason Hodge, recognizing the Port’s economic contribution and funding for local youth sports. A posthumous certificate of commendation was presented to Peggy Rivera, recognizing her tenure as Chair of the Oxnard Commission on Homelessness and her community service; her family accepted the certificate on her behalf. No vote was taken.

Public Comment: Items Not on the Agenda

• Julia Martinez, representing the City of Oxnard Cultural Arts Team, invited the public to upcoming mural restoration and unveiling events. Tara Mullally, representing the United Water Conservation District, presented information regarding a $350 million bond measure on the November 3 ballot for water infrastructure projects, noting an estimated homeowner cost of approximately $121 per year. JR Ruiz suggested the council prioritize bike paths and regulations for e-scooters and e-skates. Deirdre Frank expressed appreciation for ceremonial items but suggested streamlining the process and questioned the consequences if the water bond fails. Another virtual speaker commented on the mayor’s recognition of arts and community members.

Report of the City Manager

• The City Manager announced two upcoming community events: National Night Out on August 4 in 12 neighborhoods, and "Prep in the Park," a disaster preparedness event on September 26 at College Park.

Report of Council Members

• Council members reported on various activities, including the completion of the Youth Academy, attendance at community events such as the John Zaragoza Oxnard Transit ribbon-cutting and the South Oxnard Connect meeting, and ongoing communication with tenants in South Oxnard regarding health and safety. Councilmember Peralta noted the city’s free large item pickup program and the resolution of an artesian well issue. Mayor Pro Tem Turan thanked staff for work on the council chambers and announced the River Park Neighborhood Council meeting. Councilwoman Basalt announced that astronaut Dr. Jose Hernandez would be a guest at the South Oxnard Library block party. Councilmember Starr encouraged attendance at National Night Out and suggested considering a quarterly event for ceremonial items. Councilwoman Perez thanked volunteers for clean-up efforts and praised the Public Works Department. The Mayor reported on meetings with constituents regarding parking and safety, the upcoming Ceviche Festival, and the return of the Filipino fiestas. Councilmember Peralta added a note about the Dallas Cowboys training camp.

Consent Agenda

• The City Clerk requested the removal of Item L5 (Urban Greening Grant Program application) from the agenda. Councilmember Peralta requested that Item L6 (Seawall Repairs) be pulled for further discussion due to written comments received. The Council approved the remaining consent items (L1 through L4, L7 through L9) with a vote of 7-0.

Item L6: Additional Contract Funds for Seawall Repairs

• The Council reviewed a request to approve $232,000 in additional contract contingency funding for the Mandalay Bay seawalls project (West Hemlock Street Seawall Repairs). Director Mike Wolfe of Public Works explained that regulatory permits for foundation repairs have been secured, allowing the city to move forward with the additive bid item to minimize public disruption. A virtual speaker expressed support for the project. The Council approved the item with a vote of 7-0.

Item N1: Ordinance Regulating E-Bikes

• The Council reviewed an ordinance to add an article to Chapter 7 of the City Code regarding the regulation of motorized wheeled conveyances, e-bikes, and similar devices. Deputy City Attorney Andrew Gonzalez provided an overview, noting an administrative edit to allow for local e-bike safety courses approved by the City Manager in addition to the CHP online course. The ordinance aims to educate parents and youth, with a mandatory safety program for minors cited under the ordinance. Enforcement will begin 12 months after the ordinance takes effect, with the first six months dedicated to education (no citations) and the next six months as a phase-in period. Full enforcement begins October 1, 2027.
• Gonzalez explained the three classes of e-bikes: Class 1 (max 20 mph, pedal-assist only), Class 2 (max 20 mph, throttle or pedal), and Class 3 (max 28 mph, pedal-assist only). Helmets are required for riders under 18 for Classes 1 and 2, and for all riders of Class 3. Fines for violations are $100 for the first offense, $200 for the second, and $500 for subsequent offenses within a year. Fines can be waived if the violator completes a safety course within 14 days.
• Councilwoman Perez asked for clarification on the classes and helmet requirements. Mayor Pro Tem Turan asked about the content of the local safety curriculum, which includes rules of the road, classifications, safety equipment, and parent engagement. Turan expressed a preference for in-person instruction over online courses for young people. Councilmember Starr asked about the fine structure and the exemption for city and public agency personnel operating vehicles in the performance of official duties. Gonzalez clarified that the exemption applies to duties requiring the use of such vehicles, such as law enforcement. Councilwoman Perez asked for examples of non-law enforcement personnel who might use e-bikes for official duties. The discussion continued with questions regarding the scope of the exemption.

Agenda Item: E-Bike and Motorized Wheeled Conveyance Ordinance

Discussion and Public Comment

• Staff and Council discussed the scope of the proposed ordinance, specifically regarding exemptions for city employees. Staff clarified that the exemption was drafted broadly to accommodate potential future needs for code compliance officers or park staff using motorized wheeled conveyances for official duties, such as pursuing violations or witnessing crimes. Staff noted that misuse of this authority would be handled through human resources. Council members raised concerns about the breadth of the exemption, suggesting it be limited to law enforcement only, with other exemptions added only if specific needs arise.
• Council inquired about the likelihood of state law preempting local regulation. Staff indicated that while several state bills are pending, including a five-year pilot study in San Diego, current state law does not comprehensively address e-bike safety, helmets, or age restrictions. Staff stated that the local ordinance provides additional tools for enforcement not currently available under state law.
• Regarding enforcement and tracking, the Police Department confirmed it would track all citations issued under the ordinance through its records management system. Staff explained that citations are typically issued in person and that the existing "Start Smart" program serves as a model for juvenile education, often funded by Office of Traffic Safety grants.
• Public comment was received from a personal injury attorney who advocated for mandatory proof of insurance, age restrictions for riders under 16, and stricter enforcement measures, including fines and vehicle confiscation. The speaker argued that the proposed 2027 deadline was too remote and that civil and criminal liabilities for parents should be addressed.

Council Deliberation

• Council members debated the timeline for completing mandatory education courses. The proposed ordinance allowed 14 days for violators to submit proof of completion. Several Council members expressed that 14 days was insufficient, citing administrative burdens, holidays, and the need for flexibility. Suggestions ranged from 21 to 90 days. Council discussed the distinction between enrolling in a course and completing it, with some members preferring a single deadline for completion to reduce administrative tracking complexity for the Police Department.
• The Council discussed the format of the education program. Staff proposed offering in-person classes, potentially six times a year, to ensure adequate group sizes and effective instruction. Council members debated whether to retain the option for the California Highway Patrol (CHP) online course. Staff recommended keeping the online option for out-of-state or out-of-county violators who cannot attend local in-person sessions, while prioritizing in-person instruction for local residents. Council members also discussed making the education course a permanent option for first-time offenders, rather than limiting it to the initial phase-in period, to avoid the perception that the ordinance is primarily revenue-driven.
• Regarding the ordinance's duration, Council members discussed adding a sunset clause or a requirement to revisit the ordinance. One member suggested a two-year sunset, while another suggested five years. Staff and the City Manager recommended aligning the review date with the conclusion of the state pilot programs in San Diego and Marin counties, expected around 2030, rather than implementing a hard sunset, as state law may eventually supersede local regulations.

Motion and Vote

• The Mayor Pro Tem moved to approve the ordinance as introduced, with the following modifications: 1. Change the timeframe for submitting proof of course completion from 14 days to 30 business days. 2. Retain the option for the CHP online course, subject to City Manager discretion, primarily for out-of-area violators, while prioritizing in-person local courses. 3. Include a provision to revisit the ordinance upon the conclusion of the state pilot programs in San Diego and Marin counties (approximately 2030), rather than setting a specific sunset date. 4. Maintain the employee exemption as written in the proposed ordinance.
• A Council member seconded the motion. Another Council member requested to amend the motion to include a permanent provision allowing first-time offenders to waive fines by attending an education class, rather than limiting this option to the phase-in period. The seconding Council member clarified whether they were seconding the motion with or without this amendment. The transcript ends before a final vote is recorded or the amendment is resolved.

Agenda Item: E-Bike Ordinance (Continuation)

Discussion and Amendments

• Permanent Program: A motion was made and seconded to amend the ordinance so that the e-bike safety class is offered on a permanent basis for first-time offenders, rather than only during a transition period.
• Clarification on Seller Obligations: A council member asked if local sellers of water heaters are required to inform purchasers of local installation codes. Staff clarified that there is no legal requirement for sellers to explain code requirements; compliance is the responsibility of the installer/permit holder.
• Discretion vs. Mandatory Dismissal: Discussion occurred regarding whether the dismissal of citations for first-time offenders should be at the discretion of the City Attorney or mandatory upon completion of the course. One council member argued for mandatory dismissal to avoid abuse of discretion, while staff noted the need for discretion in cases of egregious offenses.
• Course Format: The Mayor asked for clarification on whether the in-person course is mandatory. Staff explained that the in-person course is the default, but online courses (such as those offered by CHP) are permitted under certain circumstances (e.g., out-of-state residents, work/school conflicts). The Mayor asked for empirical data supporting the preference for in-person over online training; staff cited pedagogical benefits of tactile learning.
• Specific Language Amendment: A council member proposed specific language for Section 3-401(E)(2) to state that successful completion of the program by a minor and their parent/guardian for a first-time violation "will result in the dismissal of the citation and a waiver of any fines and penalties," removing the discretionary language.
• 30-Day Deadline: Staff noted that the ordinance currently requires proof of completion within 30 business days during the transition phase but lacks equivalent language for the permanent program. A council member suggested adding this 30-day limit to the permanent section to prevent open-ended timelines. Staff agreed to append this language to the proposed amendment.

Votes

• Amendment to Make Program Permanent and Remove Discretion: The motion to amend the ordinance to offer the class permanently and change the language to mandate dismissal/waiver of fines upon completion was passed (4-2).
• Motion to Extend Meeting Past 10:00 PM: A motion was made and seconded to extend the meeting past 10:00 PM. This motion was passed (6-0).
• Final Ordinance Motion: The motion to adopt the e-bike ordinance, as amended (including the permanent program, mandatory dismissal language, and 30-day completion deadline), was passed (7-0).

Agenda Item N2: Funding Agreement with Ventura County Watershed Protection District

Recusal

• The Mayor Pro Tem recused themselves from this item due to a professional relationship with the County of Ventura.

Presentation and Discussion

• Project Overview: The Ventura County Watershed Protection District Manager presented the Santa Clara River Levee 3 (SCR3) project. The project aims to provide flood protection for approximately 6,000 homes in the Southern SCR3 levee system.
• Project Status: The project is approximately 80-90% complete. Construction is expected to resume in September to finish before potential El Niño weather events. The project includes sheet piles, flood walls, and a floodgate (the first in Ventura County).
• Funding: The total construction cost is roughly $36 million. Funding sources include Zone 2 property taxes, FEMA grants, DWR grants, and a "fair share" contribution from a developer (Defco Oxnard Vineyard Oxnard Avenue LLC).
• City Contribution: The City of Oxnard is being asked to authorize a funding agreement of up to $2,356,779.24. This consists of $1 million from a DWR grant and $1,356,779.24 from the developer’s fair share contribution.
• Q&A:
• A council member asked if additional city funds would be required after this authorization. The District Manager stated that no additional city funds would be required; the city is reimbursing costs already fronted by the District.
• A council member asked about the impact on flood insurance. The District Manager explained that once the levee is certified by FEMA, the requirement for flood insurance on federally backed mortgages would no longer be absolute, though lenders may still require it.
• A council member shared historical context regarding the "Flood Zone Justice" group and community efforts that led to the project.
• The City’s Floodplain Administrator commented on the improvements and the removal of the area from the special flood hazard area.

Votes

• Resolution to Authorize Funding Agreement: The motion to adopt the resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute the funding agreement with the Ventura County Watershed Protection District was passed (6-0).

Agenda Item N3: Public Project Agreement with Toro Enterprises

Presentation and Discussion

• Project Overview: Public Works Director Michael Wolff presented the Neighborhood Street Resurfacing Project for the Cal Gisler neighborhood. The project involves resurfacing streets, localized repairs, and ADA improvements (sidewalks, ramps).
• Timeline: Work is tentatively scheduled to begin in August 2026 and continue for approximately 60 working days.
• Funding: The project is part of a multi-phase Capital Improvement Program (CIP). Funding sources include Measure O, General Fund, and utility funds (Water/Wastewater) for manhole adjustments.
• Q&A:
• A council member noted that the Cal Gisler Neighborhood Council is currently inactive and asked how communication would be handled. Staff confirmed that standard notices and no-parking signs would be posted.
• A council member asked for clarification on the $600,000 allocated from Water and Wastewater operating funds. Staff explained this covers the adjustment of manhole covers and valve cans to match the new pavement grade, based on unit prices in the contractor’s bid.
• A council member asked about the hierarchy of funds used. Staff explained that restrictive funds (grants, bonds) are typically spent first, while general funds (Measure O, General Fund) are spent later. Not all funds listed in the project budget table will be used for this specific phase; unused funds carry over to subsequent phases.
• A council member asked about the difference between resurfacing and chip seal. Staff explained that resurfacing adds structural strength, while chip seal is a maintenance treatment for surface issues.
• A council member commented on the use of bond funds and the impact of a previous lawsuit on paving projects. Staff noted that bond funding was identified in the CIP but paused due to the lawsuit, leading to the current funding structure.

Votes

• Approval of Project Agreement: The motion to approve the public project agreement with Toro Enterprises for the Neighborhood Street Resurfacing Project, including the total project funds and contingency amounts, was passed (the transcript ends before the final vote count is explicitly stated, but the motion was moved, seconded, and discussion concluded with the Mayor calling for the vote; based on the pattern of previous items and the lack of recorded opposition, it is implied to have passed, but strictly speaking, the transcript cuts off before the clerk announces the final tally. Correction: The transcript ends with the seconding of the motion and a comment from a council member. The final vote outcome is not explicitly stated in this transcript segment. However, the prompt asks to state the vote outcome. Looking closely at the end: "I'll second the motion but I'd like to... [comment]... I'm not sure I can make that kind of broad statement." The transcript ends here. The vote has not been taken or recorded in this text. Therefore, the status is Motion on the floor, vote not yet recorded in this segment.)
• Self-Correction on N3 Vote: The transcript ends with a council member speaking after seconding the motion. The clerk has not called the vote, and no outcome is stated. I must report that the motion was moved and seconded, but the vote outcome is not present in this part of the transcript.

Revised N3 Vote Status

• Approval of Project Agreement: The motion to approve the public project agreement was moved and seconded. The transcript ends before the vote is taken or the outcome is announced.

Agenda Item: Bond Sale (Continuation)

• Public Comment: An unidentified speaker expressed a personal opinion regarding the timing of the bond sale, citing lost time, opportunity, and expense. The speaker also introduced Asita Vithanagi, Engineering Division Manager, to the council.
• Staff Introduction: Asita Vithanagi introduced herself to the Mayor, Mayor Pro Tem, and Council Members, noting her long-term involvement with CIP projects.
• Motion and Vote: The Clerk confirmed there were no further requests to speak in person or virtually. A motion was put to a vote.
• Outcome: The motion carried with a vote of 7-0.

Adjournment

• Motion: Council Member McArthur moved to adjourn the meeting, stating there was no further business on the agenda.
• Outcome: The motion to adjourn was adopted without objection.