Meeting Summary
Present: 5-Basua, 1-Perello, 6-Perez, 4-Rodríguez, 3-Starr, 2-Teran
This summary was AI-generated to save you time. It may miss or misstate details, so verify against the official recording and the transcript.
At a glance
Oxnard Convention and Visitors Bureau (OCVB) Annual Report
- VisitOxnard presented fiscal year 2025–26 results, highlighting $379.1 million in direct visitor spending and support for approximately 3,270 jobs.
- The organization reported a 242-room increase in hotel capacity, a 48% rise in website traffic, and new marketing partnerships.
- Council members discussed regional marketing strategies and local event visibility, while the CEO noted upcoming collaborations with the Ventura County Lodging Association.
- The item was designated as a receiving file with no motion or vote taken.
Downtown Oxnard Improvement Association (DOIA) Annual Work Plan and Budget
- DOIA presented a proposed fiscal year 2026–27 budget of $640,965, an increase driven by district expansion and assessment changes.
- Allocations prioritize civil and sidewalk improvements, district identity, and organizational operations, including support for California Cultural District designation.
- Discussion addressed budget provisions for security and cleanup, as well as the impact of a new dispensary on local safety and trash management.
- The Council approved the DOIA Annual Work Plan and Budget for fiscal year 2026–27.
Mills Act Contract (160 South G Street)
- A resident raised concerns regarding the accuracy of historical claims and the public benefit of the proposed tax revenue reduction.
- Staff clarified that the contract must be recorded before year-end to affect next year's taxes and that historical significance is based on architectural contribution.
- A motion to postpone the item for further review failed to receive a second.
- The Council approved the recommended action, finding the project categorically exempt from CEQA and authorizing the contract execution.
River Park Specific Plan Amendment (Public Hearing)
- The Council conducted a public hearing to approve Specific Plan Amendment Number 9, changing a public facilities designation to Commercial Regional.
- The City Attorney outlined Levine Act requirements regarding campaign contributions and potential recusal, noting no disclosures were made by members.
- The Planning Supervisor confirmed that a previously approved digital billboard project on the parcel is not impacted by this amendment.
- The Council approved the recommended actions, including certifying the EIR addendum and approving the first reading of the ordinance.
Fire Department FEMA Grants
- The Council reviewed budget appropriations for two FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grants totaling $1,550,786.20.
- Discussion focused on the use of funds for backfilling costs during firefighter paramedic training and associated compensation adjustments.
- The Fire Chief confirmed that the majority of grant costs cover backfilling for personnel undergoing advanced medical training.
- The Council approved the recommended action for the grant appropriations.
Tree Pruning and Park Maintenance
- A member of the public expressed appreciation for the city's responsiveness to a tree pruning request in a south-end park.
- The Mayor noted the lack of major tree damage following a recent wind event, attributing this to the grid pruning program.
- The Mayor highlighted the specific maintenance needs of a bunya pine tree on F Street due to the weight of its cones.
- The Council approved the recommended actions for tree pruning and park maintenance.
Closed Session
- The City Attorney advised the Council to recess to closed session to confer with attorneys regarding Olvera v. City of Oxnard and People of the State of California v. Rastegar.
- Upon returning, the City Attorney reported that no reportable actions were taken during the closed session.
Full summary
Meeting Context
- The Oxnard City Council convened on Tuesday, October 20, 2026. Mayor Pro Tem Teran presided in the absence of Mayor McArthur. Roll call confirmed the presence of Councilmembers Perallo, Perez, Rodriguez, and Starr. The agenda was posted on October 8, 2026.
Closed Session
- The City Attorney advised the Council to recess to closed session pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9 Subdivision D1 to confer with attorneys regarding Olvera v. City of Oxnard and People of the State of California v. Rastegar. No public comments were received prior to the recess. Upon returning, the City Attorney reported no reportable actions taken during the closed session.
Agenda Item D1: Oxnard Convention and Visitors Bureau (OCVB) Annual Report
- Brittany Hendricks, President and CEO of VisitOxnard, presented the fiscal year 2025–26 annual report. Key points included $379.1 million in direct visitor spending in 2025, supporting approximately 3,270 jobs; a 242-room increase in hotel capacity; a 48% increase in website traffic; and marketing efforts including a new brand campaign and partnerships. Michelle Flippo was announced as the new Director of Operations and Business Development. The organization received a 2026 California Poppy Award and an American Advertising Gold Award. Future priorities include 2028 Olympic Games opportunities.
- Councilmember Perallo suggested considering regional attractions for marketing. Councilmember Starr inquired about partnerships with the Automobile Club of Southern California and Westways Magazine; Hendricks noted an upcoming partnership with the Ventura County Lodging Association. The City Manager commented on the organization's work. Councilmember Rodriguez suggested highlighting local festivals on the website; Hendricks noted the website currently lists 35–70 events monthly.
- The item was designated as a receiving file. No motion was made, and no vote was taken.
Agenda Item D2: Downtown Oxnard Improvement Association (DOIA) Annual Work Plan and Budget
- Angela Wakeham, DOIA Board Chair, and Mark Spellman, Vice Chair, presented the proposed work plan and budget for fiscal year 2026–27. The total proposed budget is $640,965, an increase from the previous year’s $613,537, attributed to the addition of two blocks to the district and a shift to linear footage assessments. Allocations include 56.5% for Civil/Sidewalks, 15.6% for District Identity, and 27.9% for Organization. Key initiatives include support for the California Cultural District designation, implementation of the Retail Strategies Action Plan, and increased social media engagement.
- Councilmember Starr inquired about the budget portion related to homelessness. Wakeham stated that bylaws require a specific percentage for civil/sidewalks, which includes security and cleanup. Assistant City Manager Christina Brewer noted that the city’s anti-camping ordinance and security contracts have helped reduce strain on DOIA.
- Eduardo Huerta expressed concerns about the proximity of a marijuana dispensary to the homeless shelter and the Oxnard Public Library, citing complaints from families regarding street conditions. He suggested better coordination with OPAC and Sterling Properties for the Performing Arts Center. Wakeham responded that the new dispensary has provided security benefits by monitoring a previously problematic trash enclosure area.
- Councilmember Starr moved to approve the DOIA Annual Work Plan and Budget for fiscal year 2026–27. Councilwoman Basuah seconded the motion. The motion passed (6-0).
Joint Meeting with Oxnard Housing Authority
- The Council reconvened with the Oxnard Housing Authority. Roll call confirmed the presence of Commissioners Andrade, Basuah, Perallo, Perez, Rodriguez, and Starr, and Vice Chair Teran. Commissioners present received $50 for convening, except Commissioner Starr who declined compensation. Staff requested the removal of Report No. 2 (Third Amendment to the agreement with Los Angeles Truck Centers LLC dba Velocity Truck Centers) from the agenda; it will return at a later date.
Ceremonial Items
- Pledge of Allegiance: Led by Jasmine Britt, an 8th-grade student at Lopez Middle School and member of the Police Activities League Youth Directors Council.
- Moment of Silence: Held in memory of Tom McNally, former Chair of the Channel Islands Neighborhood Council. Chuck Carter spoke in McNally’s honor, noting his work on harbor water quality and securing over $3 million in grants.
- Certificate of Achievement: Presented to Jasmine Britt for her accomplishments and commitment to youth leadership.
- Proclamation: A proclamation designating November 11, 2026, as Veterans Day was presented to the Oxnard Veterans Committee.
Agenda Item F2: Presentation of Commendation to Santa Clara High School and Santa Clara Elementary School (125th Anniversary)
- The City Clerk read certificates of commendation for both schools, noting their founding in 1901 by the Sisters of Saint Joseph and their 125-year history in Oxnard. Principals for both schools accepted the commendations. A student from Santa Clara High School and a staff member addressed the council regarding the schools' impact on the community. The commendations were presented and accepted. No formal motion or vote was recorded for this ceremonial item.
Agenda Item G: Public Comments for Items Not on the Agenda
- The Mayor opened the floor for public comment on non-action items. Several residents spoke, addressing topics including Veterans Day events, support for local law enforcement crisis lines, allegations regarding conduct at a recent candidate forum, criticisms directed at specific council members, concerns regarding the placement of campaign signs, opposition to specific candidates, personal accounts of alleged harassment, promotion of a new interfaith group, gratitude for the moderation of recent candidate forums, student initiatives, opposition to tax increases, questions regarding law enforcement endorsements, and allegations of a coordinated campaign by a sitting council member.
- Council Member Starr moved to extend the public comment period beyond the standard 30-minute limit to allow remaining speakers to address the council. Council Member Perrello seconded the motion. The motion to extend the public comment period passed. The council accepted the remaining in-person and virtual speakers. The public comment period concluded after all registered speakers had addressed the council.
Agenda Item H: Report of a City Manager, Executive Director, and Secretary
- The City Manager presented a report covering photos from Code Enforcement Appreciation Week and National Planning Month, election information including recommendations to mail ballots early, locations for ballot drop-off boxes, and schedules for voting centers in Oxnard. Specific addresses for voting centers and drop-off locations were listed. No action was taken; the report was informational.
Agenda Item I: City Council, Housing Authority, Successor Agency, Financing Authority, Business Committee Reports
- Council members provided brief reports on their activities since the last meeting:
- Council Member Starr: Reported on an upcoming La Colonia Neighborhood Council meeting where the Mayor is a guest speaker.
- Councilwoman Rodriguez: Reported on a Gold Coast Transit District strategic planning meeting regarding route priorities and accessibility. She also mentioned attending community events, a school visit, and the State of the Ventura County Community College District event.
- Councilwoman Perez: Reported on Air Pollution Control District Board funding for air quality monitoring in South Oxnard, upcoming meetings with neighborhood council chairs, a Bryce Canyon Neighborhood Council meeting, and participation in a SEIU 721 strike rally.
- No action was taken; the reports were informational.
Public Comments (Continuation)
- Council members provided personal remarks regarding community engagement, recent elections, and civic duties. Comments included observations on neighborhood council activities, the impact of election campaign spending and mailers, and the importance of voter participation. One council member addressed specific allegations regarding their voting record on a previous HUD-related issue, stating that prior reports were inaccurate and providing context for their vote. Another council member acknowledged a courthouse march they were unable to attend due to work conflicts. The Mayor Pro Tem thanked individuals involved in organizing candidate forums and emphasized the privilege of voting.
Information Consent Agenda
- The body reviewed the information consent agenda. Council members were asked if any items should be pulled for discussion. One council member requested that Item L4 be considered separately to allow for public comment, while another requested that items with signed speakers be considered separately. The Mayor Pro Tem clarified that public comments would be heard on the consent agenda items.
Item L4: Mills Act Contract (160 South G Street)
- A video submission from a resident across the street from the property raised concerns about the accuracy of the staff report’s historical claims, the justification for the rehabilitation plan, and the public benefit of the tax revenue reduction. The resident requested the contract not be approved in its current form. Community Development staff explained that the agreement needed to be signed and recorded before the end of the calendar year to take effect for the following year’s property taxes. Staff noted that the property had already undergone review by the Cultural Heritage Board (CHB) and that the historical significance was based on architectural contribution to the historic district rather than specific ownership history. Staff indicated they could provide further information if directed by the Council.
- A motion was made to postpone the item to allow for further review of the concerns raised. The motion did not receive a second and died. A motion was made to approve the recommended action (finding the project categorically exempt from CEQA and authorizing the execution of the Mills Act contract). The motion was seconded. The motion passed with five votes in favor and one abstention.
Item L5: City Manager Approved Contracts
- A speaker commented on the high number of single-source and sole-source contracts listed, suggesting that the city provide rationale for these designations to the public. No specific motion or vote was recorded for this item in this section; it was part of the broader consent agenda processing.
Remaining Consent Items (including Housing Items)
- The Mayor Pro Tem recused themselves from Item L1 (Opioid Settlement Funds) due to a professional relationship with the County of Ventura. The housing items were combined for voting purposes. A motion was made to approve the recommended actions for the remaining consent agenda items. The motion was seconded.
- Item L1 (Opioid Settlement Funds): Passed with five votes in favor (Mayor Pro Tem recused).
- Remaining Items: Passed with seven votes in favor and zero against.
Item M1: River Park Specific Plan Amendment (Public Hearing)
- The subject was the approval of Specific Plan Amendment Number 9 to change a public facilities land use designation within Planning District E to Commercial Regional. The City Clerk certified the publication of legal notice and noted one written communication received. The City Attorney explained the Levine Act (pay-to-play prohibition) requirements, noting that officials must recuse themselves if they have received campaign contributions exceeding $500 from parties involved in the proceeding. Council members asked questions regarding quorum implications if multiple members were required to recuse themselves; the City Attorney indicated that a "rule of necessity" might apply in such cases. No disclosures were made by council members. The Planning Supervisor clarified that a previously approved digital billboard project on one of the parcels was not impacted by this amendment. No speakers appeared in person or virtually.
- A motion was made to approve the recommended actions (conduct public hearing, certify EIR addendum, and approve first reading of the ordinance). The motion was seconded. The motion passed with six votes in favor and zero against.
Item N1: Fire Department FEMA Grants
- The subject was the approval of budget appropriations for two FEMA Fiscal Year 25 Assistance to Firefighters Grants totaling $1,550,786.20, including a local match requirement. Council members asked about the use of funds, specifically regarding backfilling costs while firefighters undergo paramedic training. The Fire Chief confirmed that the majority of the grant costs cover backfilling. Questions were raised about compensation changes for upgraded personnel (8% increase for paramedic pool, 15% for functioning as paramedics) and the specific medical capabilities of paramedics versus EMTs.
- A motion was made to approve the recommended action. The motion was seconded. The motion passed with six votes in favor and zero against.
Item N2: Tree Pruning and Park Maintenance
- A member of the public expressed appreciation for the responsiveness of the city’s team regarding a request for tree pruning in a south-end park. The Mayor noted that there were no additional speakers on the item. The Mayor commented on the lack of fallen trees or major issues following a recent wind event, attributing this to the grid pruning program. The Mayor also identified a specific bunya pine tree located on F Street near the old St. John’s Hospital, noting its origin and the necessity of regular trimming due to the size and weight of its cones.
- Councilmember Starr moved to approve the recommended actions. Councilwoman Rodriguez seconded the motion. The motion carried. The vote outcome was passed (6-0).
Adjournment
- The Mayor disclosed a brief exchange with a Councilmember regarding the status of Item N2, confirming that the item had been pulled from the agenda prior to this discussion. With no further business on the agenda and without objection, the meeting was adjourned.