Meeting Summary
Present: Gama, Perez, Lopez, Hernandez
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
Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Alaska Flight 261 Proclamations
- The Council adopted a proclamation designating January 19 as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day to honor his legacy and civil rights leadership.
- A second proclamation recognized the 26th anniversary of the Alaska Flight 261 crash, designating January 31 as a day of remembrance for the victims.
- Representatives from the Martin Luther King Committee accepted the proclamation and acknowledged forty years of Council support.
457 Plan Vendor Consolidation
- The Council approved a resolution to consolidate the city's 457 retirement plans from multiple vendors to a single provider, Empower.
- Staff projected that this consolidation would reduce annual administrative fees from approximately $86,000 to $16,800.
- The new arrangement will introduce loan options for employees and requires a two-to-four-month transition period with potential brief account freezes.
Special Use Permit for Sea Splash Color Dash
- The Council granted Special Use Permit No. 26-1 for the 2026 Sea Splash Color Dash event scheduled for March 21.
- A revised race route was approved to eliminate switchbacks on Surfside Drive, utilizing Ventura Road and the south shoulder of Seaview Street instead.
- The project is categorically exempt from CEQA, with a budget of $20,000 partially funded by the Port of Hueneme.
Partnership with West Ventura County Business Alliance
- The Council approved a letter of partnership to connect local businesses with the regional network of the West Ventura County Business Alliance.
- The agreement requires a $900 annual membership fee and designates City Manager and Economic Development staff as primary liaisons.
- The partnership aims to support regional economic initiatives, including the Carl's company investment and preparation for the 2028 Olympics.
Playground Replacement at Miranda and Volker Parks
- The Council authorized an agreement with Great Western Recreation to replace aging and unsafe playground equipment at both parks.
- The project has a total not-to-exceed cost of $479,016, funded by state grants, RDA bonds, and the General Fund.
- While public comment requested inclusive design features, staff noted that budget constraints and grant terms limited the scope of the current project.
Council Liaison Committee Appointments
- Council members confirmed their appointments to various committees, including the Clean Power Alliance, Economic Development Collaborative, and Regional Defense Partnership.
- The Council deferred a final decision on City-Port Standing Committee representation to allow for further review of rules and regulations.
- The Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem agreed to swap primary and alternate roles on the Regional Defense Partnership to accommodate scheduling conflicts.
Council Policy and Procedures Manual Amendment
- Staff presented proposed amendments to correct appointment dates, update agenda request processes, and add Levine Act disclosure requirements.
- Council members suggested additional changes, including extending agenda packet availability to seven days and restricting non-essential outreach near elections.
- No formal adoption occurred; staff was directed to incorporate the discussed modifications for future agenda consideration.
City Manager and Staff Reports
- The City Manager reported successful storm preparedness efforts, no major flooding, and the completion of Hueneme Beach dredging.
- Updates included the upcoming reopening of the promenade, registration for "Sunday Funday" events, and the agenda for the February 2nd meeting.
- Council members and the City Clerk provided reports on economic development, federal outreach, beach cleanup participation, and animal control efforts.
Closed Session
- No closed session report was included in the provided meeting summary.
Full summary
Meeting Call to Order and Opening Remarks
- The City Council regular meeting was called to order at 6:30 p.m. on January 20, 2026. Following the flag salute and roll call, the Mayor delivered opening remarks welcoming attendees to the first meeting of 2026. The remarks included reflections on the city's resilience and diversity, gratitude to staff and community partners, and comments regarding the recent Martin Luther King Jr. federal holiday, emphasizing themes of unity, equity, and service.
Public Comments
- Three members of the public provided comments not pertaining to specific agenda items:
- Kevin Brannan invited the Council to the "Blue Carpet Premiere" of the TV show Coastal Critters at the Channel Islands Maritime Museum, describing the project as an art collaboration involving local musicians and students from Oxnard Unified School District, and highlighting job placement initiatives and partnerships with the Port of Hueneme.
- Joshua Tellez, an intern with Real Guppy Outdoors and a student at Channel Islands High School, reiterated the invitation to the Coastal Critters premiere, noting the event schedule and the presentation of new episodes.
- Johnny Garcia-Vazquez, a former tenant of Park Madera Apartments, addressed alleged retaliatory actions by the property management company following reports of uninhabitable conditions and safety issues. He corrected misinformation presented at a previous meeting, stating that his civil rights case remains open with the California Civil Rights Department. He requested that the City provide workshops on the California Ralph Act and tenant rights, noting the distinction between hate incidents and hate crimes.
Agenda Approval
- A motion was made and seconded to approve the meeting agenda. The motion passed unanimously.
Conflicts of Interest
- Two Council members recused themselves from Item 8 due to proximity to the subject property: one member resides within the 1,000-foot radius of Boker Park, and another resides adjacent to Miranda Park.
Presentations and Proclamations
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day: Council Member Gama read a proclamation designating January 19, 2026, as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day. The proclamation honored Dr. King's legacy, his leadership in the civil rights movement, and his vision of equality. Representatives from the Martin Luther King Committee, Loretta Ayers Montgomery and Heidi Gayton, accepted the proclamation and thanked the Council for their 40 years of support. A group photo was taken.
- Alaska Flight 261 Memorial: Mayor Pro Tem Hernandez read a proclamation recognizing the 26th anniversary of the Alaska Flight 261 crash, which occurred on January 31, 2000, off Anacapa Island. The proclamation honored the 88 victims, acknowledged the response of local first responders, and recognized the community's ongoing support for the victims' families. The proclamation designated January 31 as a day of remembrance.
Consent Calendar
- The Council considered the consent calendar. Item 3 was pulled from the consent calendar for separate discussion. A motion was made and seconded to approve the remaining items (Items 1, 2, 4, and 5). The motion passed unanimously.
Item 3: 457 Plan Vendor Change
- The Council discussed a resolution to change the vendor for the City's 457 retirement plan from multiple vendors (including Mission Square) to a single vendor, Empower, utilizing Fiduciary Experts as a broker. Staff explained that consolidating the four existing plans into one vendor would reduce administrative fees from approximately $86,000 annually to roughly $16,800. The new arrangement would also provide employees with loan options against their assets, a benefit not currently available. Staff noted a transition period of two to four months, during which there might be a brief freeze on account access, though a complete blackout was not anticipated. Outreach to employees and retirees regarding the change would be conducted following approval. Council members inquired about the performance of the current vendor, the impact on retirees, and the specifics of the transition. A motion was made and seconded to approve Item 3. The motion passed unanimously.
Item 6: Special Use Permit for Color Run/Walk 5K and Kids 1K
- The Council held a public hearing regarding the adoption of a resolution granting Special Use Permit No. 26-1 for the 2026 Sea Splash Color Dash event, scheduled for March 21, 2026. Staff presented details of the event, which includes a 5K Color Run/Walk, a Kids 1K, and a Health & Wellness Fair. A revised race route was proposed to eliminate switchbacks on Surfside Drive, routing participants northbound on Ventura Road and utilizing the south shoulder of Seaview Street. This change is expected to reduce labor costs and provide variety, though it will result in a temporary 25-minute road closure affecting specific residential complexes. Staff noted that sound complaints from previous years would be mitigated by directing speakers away from residences. The event budget is approximately $20,000, with $10,000 contributed by the Port of Hueneme and the remainder covered by registration fees. The project is categorically exempt from CEQA. Leticia Austin, representing the Port of Hueneme, expressed strong support for the event, citing its role in promoting healthy lifestyles and community connection. A motion was made and seconded to approve the resolution granting Special Use Permit No. 26-1 and finding the project exempt from CEQA. The motion passed unanimously.
Item 7: Letter of Partnership with West Ventura County Business Alliance
- The Council considered a letter of partnership between the City of Port Hueneme and the West Ventura County Business Alliance. The City Manager explained that the partnership aims to address a gap in the City's economic development capacity by connecting Port Hueneme businesses with the regional network of the Alliance, which serves Oxnard and Camarillo. The agreement involves appointing staff liaisons to facilitate communication and collaboration but does not obligate the City to specific financial commitments or projects at this time. The Alliance Director, Andy Conley, noted that the Alliance represents over 500 businesses and that the City would be required to pay a $900 annual membership fee to participate. The Alliance representative outlined existing services, including a weekly newsletter, a business advocacy committee, and networking events. The discussion highlighted the Alliance's role in supporting the international Carl's company investment in the Channel Islands Harbor area, addressing jurisdictional boundaries, workforce development, and access issues. The Alliance also described its vision for preparing Ventura County for the 2028 Olympics and other major sporting events. Council members inquired about the Alliance's political action committee (PAC) and how the partnership would differ from previous failed attempts to engage the business community. Staff clarified that the City Manager's office and the Economic Development staff would serve as the primary liaisons. A motion was made to approve the proposed letter of partnership and authorize the City Manager to execute the agreement, designate a staff liaison, and collaborate for the benefit of the local business community. The motion was seconded. Following additional discussion regarding the timing and economic impact of the partnership, the motion was put to a vote. The motion passed unanimously.
Item 8: Playground Replacement at Miranda and Volker Parks
- Staff presented a recommendation to replace playground equipment at Miranda Park and Volker Park due to the age of the equipment (16 to 23 years old), safety hazards, and the inability of manufacturers to provide replacement parts. Staff noted that the current condition of the playgrounds no longer meets California health and safety standards, necessitating the removal or boarding up of sections. A vendor, Great Western Recreation, offered a matching grant for specific equipment parts. The proposal included a total cost of approximately $456,532 for equipment, materials, freight, and tax, plus a 5% contingency. Funding sources identified included a California state park grant, an RDA bond restricted to Miranda Park, and the General Fund. The estimated General Fund impact was approximately $257,000 for both parks combined. Staff indicated that if the item were not approved, the playgrounds would need to be closed. Construction was projected to begin immediately upon approval, with completion expected by mid-February to mid-March, weather permitting. Public comment was received from the Autism Society of Ventura County, which advocated for inclusive playground designs that allow children with disabilities to play on the equipment, noting that the current proposal did not fully meet inclusivity standards. Staff responded that while inclusive features like rubberized surfaces were desired, budget constraints and the specific terms of the available grant limited the scope of the project. Staff explained that the city is working on a long-term ADA accessibility plan and that this project represents a step toward compliance within current financial realities. A motion was made to authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with Great Western Recreation LLC for the design, furnishing, and installation of playground equipment, with a total not-to-exceed amount of $479,016. The motion was seconded. Following discussion regarding accessibility and budget limitations, a roll call vote was conducted. The motion passed.
Item 9: City Council Liaison Committee Appointments for 2025
- Staff presented a list of City Council Liaison Committee appointments for the upcoming year, including committees such as Beacon California, the City Port Committee, the Clean Power Alliance, the Economic Development Collaborative, the Federal Outreach and Advocacy Council, Gold Coast Transit, the Port Hueneme Water Agency, the Regional Defense Partnership (RDP), SCAG, Southern California Edison, VCOG, BCAPCD, Ventura County Animal Services, the Ventura County Transportation Commission, the Ventura Regional Energy Alliance, and the Ventura Regional Sanitation District. The Council reviewed the list item by item to confirm or adjust appointments. Council members confirmed their interest in continuing to serve on Beacon California and CJPIA. Discussion arose regarding whether the Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem should continue as the city's representatives on the City Port Committee or if the appointments should be adjusted. Staff noted that while historically the Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem served, it is not a strict requirement. The Council discussed the need for alignment with the Port's operations and the importance of reflecting the Council's will. The Council decided to defer a final decision on this specific appointment to revisit later, noting the need to review rules and regulations. Council members confirmed their current appointments or expressed willingness to continue serving on the Clean Power Alliance, Economic Development Collaborative, Federal Outreach, Gold Coast Transit, Port Hueneme Water Agency, Ventura County Animal Services, Ventura County Transportation Commission, and Regional Energy Alliance. The Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem discussed swapping primary and alternate roles on the Regional Defense Partnership (RDP) to accommodate scheduling conflicts. The Mayor confirmed continuing as the primary representative for the Ventura Regional Sanitation District (VRSD). Staff noted that two positions on the Port Hueneme Housing Authority are currently vacant and advertised, but no changes were made to the existing Council member appointments at this time. Staff indicated that the Ad Hoc Governance Committee is nearing the end of its work and will likely make a recommendation to the Council regarding its future status later in the year.
City-Port Standing Committee Appointments
- Discussion focused on the appointment of council representatives to the City-Port Standing Committee and the need for the council to establish clear priorities and direction for those representatives prior to their attendance at meetings. Concerns were raised regarding the lack of prior council discussion on agenda items and the authority granted to representatives. It was noted that the January meeting of the standing committee had been mutually canceled. A motion was made to approve the remaining committee appointments while deferring the specific discussion regarding the City-Port Standing Committee representation and direction to the February 2nd council meeting. The motion was seconded. Following discussion, the motion passed unanimously.
Council Policy and Procedures Manual Amendment
- Staff presented a proposed update to the Council Policy and Procedures Manual for annual review. The proposed amendments included: correcting the date for the appointment of the Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem to reflect actual practice (second regular meeting in December); incorporating the updated process for council members to request agenda items; adding disclosure requirements related to the Levine Act; and removing language requiring written public comments to be read aloud, as this was not a statutory requirement. Council members discussed several additional modifications: a recommendation to change the policy to require agenda packets to be available seven days prior to meetings, rather than five; a proposal to restrict the initiation of new, non-essential community outreach programs, town halls, or city-funded mass mailings within 90 days of a municipal election where council members are candidates; and a suggestion to delete a clause stating that rules and procedures can only be modified by a four-fifths supermajority vote. No formal motion to adopt the manual was taken at this time. The council directed staff to incorporate the discussed changes and clarifications into the language. The item will be returned to a future agenda for final approval or modification.
City Manager Comments and Reports
- The City Manager provided updates on several topics:
- Storm Preparedness: Reported on the city's response to recent significant storms and king tides. The city prepared by clearing debris, checking waterways, and coordinating with the County to ensure channels were clear. No major flooding or damage was reported.
- Emergency Preparedness Training: Confirmed that the County Emergency Preparedness Director conducted training for elected officials in Ventura County, focusing on the role of officials in supporting staff response and communicating consistent information to the public.
- Hueneme Beach Dredging: Reported the completion of a mid-cycle dredging project at Hueneme Beach, which exceeded estimates by placing 1.5 million cubic yards of sand. The promenade is expected to reopen within 10 days.
- Recreation: Noted that registration is open for the "Sunday Funday" events at the museum.
- Upcoming Agenda: Outlined items for the February 2nd meeting, including proclamations for World Wetlands Day and Black History Month, a public hearing on amending the cap on cannabis businesses, a legislative platform review, a feasibility analysis for a bike lane, and a grant proposal related to channel planning. The City-Port Committee item and the Policy and Procedures Manual were also noted as upcoming agenda items.
Council Member Reports and Comments
- Council members provided individual updates:
- One member reported attending the Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) meeting, noting a new Board Chair, and commented on the MLK Day event.
- Another member reported attending the Federal Outreach and Advisory Council, highlighting upcoming discussions on housing policy for service members and the Home Base Act.
- A third member reported on the Hueneme Beach Cleanup efforts, noting the program is on track to exceed 1,000 participants. This member also reported visiting the Ocean View Pavilion to observe services for adults with disabilities and suggested outreach to the Chumash Museum regarding tule reeds removed from Bubbling Springs Park.
- The City Clerk reported attending various meetings, including the RDP Strategic Planning Group, SCAG legislative committee (noting potential climate change funding), and an Immigrant Services Stakeholders Meeting. The Clerk highlighted concerns regarding misinformation on social media and AI, and noted animal control's efforts in assisting pets of self-deporting residents.
Mayor's Report and Announcements
- The Mayor reported transitioning out of the chair position for the Air Pollution Control District and expressed intent to continue the work initiated over the past year. The Mayor acknowledged the retirement of Gene Fisher, Executive Director of RDP, after 25 years of service, and noted that a proclamation and certificates for the Military Appreciation Dinner would be presented at his event. The Mayor also announced participation in the City Selection Committee on Friday morning and a volunteer engagement with Many Mansions. No formal motions were moved, seconded, or voted upon during this segment.
Fiduciary Experts Report
- A representative from Fiduciary Experts thanked the Port of Hueneme for partnering with the Lions Club on a "Bulker Park" community food distribution event, which served over 200 families. The representative expressed hope to conduct similar distributions throughout the year. No formal motions were moved, seconded, or voted upon during this segment.
Adjournment
- The Mayor announced that the next regular meeting is scheduled for Monday, February 2nd, at 6:30 PM. The meeting was adjourned at 9:50 PM. No formal motions were moved, seconded, or voted upon during this segment.