Meeting Summary
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At a glance
Water Supply Conservation and Water Quality Bond Measure D
- UWCD presented details on a $350 million bond measure for the November 3 ballot to fund three major water infrastructure projects.
- The bond would finance the Santa Felicia Dam Safety Improvement, Freeman Diversion Improvement, and Extraction Barrier projects.
- Funding sources include secured grants and a WIFIA loan, with the bond covering the remaining gap.
- The projected tax rate is approximately $24 per $100,000 of assessed value, beginning in fiscal year 2028.
US 101 Improvement Program
- The Ventura County Transportation Commission presented the status of the US-101 Improvement Project extending from Thousand Oaks to Ventura.
- Three alternatives are under study, including a no-build scenario and HOV/express bus lane configurations.
- The draft environmental document is scheduled for public circulation beginning September 30, with hearings in November 2026.
- The project includes a mitigation program committing $243 million to multimodal improvements and transit investments.
Proclamation: National Hispanic Heritage Month
- Councilmember Lopez read a proclamation designating September 15 through October 15, 2026, as National Hispanic Heritage Month.
- Representatives from local LULAC councils accepted the proclamation and highlighted their role in civil rights and community events.
- The group promoted upcoming community initiatives, including the "Viva La Mujer" event.
Vehicle Purchase (Consent Calendar Item 3)
- Councilmember Lopez raised concerns regarding a non-cancellable quote for a dump truck chassis subject to potential 2027 price increases.
- Staff explained that the chassis is delivered before upfitting and that price changes have not occurred in past transactions with the vendor.
- Staff noted the vehicle qualifies for a CARB exemption because an equivalent Zero Emission Vehicle is not currently available for that specific spec.
- The Council approved the purchase after discussing the timeline for transitioning to electric vehicles under the Advanced Clean Fleets plan.
Automated License Plate Readers (ALPR) / Axon Enterprises Agreement
- The City Manager introduced a proposal to replace existing Flock ALPR cameras with Axon Outpost cameras to address privacy and data safeguards.
- Axon presented a 10-year bundle including ALPR cameras, body-worn cameras, Taser devices, and a Skydio drone for first responder use.
- Staff indicated the switch would save approximately $100,000 over the 10-year term compared to staying with the current vendor.
- The Council approved the agreement with conditions including policy updates, quarterly reports, and an ordinance for Council oversight.
Veterans Advisory Ad Hoc Committee and Veterans Banner Program Update
- The committee reported that 19 banners were installed in July and identified issues such as banners being mounted too high and font size being too small.
- Plans for the next round include lowering banners, increasing font size, simplifying designs, and adding sponsorships before Veterans Day.
- The committee is working to firm up eligibility requirements and payment processes, noting that some veterans lacked standard discharge papers.
- The item was for informational purposes and feedback, with no motion made or voted upon.
Community Benefit Fund Projects
- Staff presented an update on the Community Benefit Fund, noting $196,000 in prior-year funds available for reprogramming.
- EDCVC presented a proposal for a Business Assistance Loan Fund involving a $150,000 city investment to create a revolving loan fund.
- Public comment requested funding for a soundproof tennis backboard at Miranda Park and improvements to the dog park.
- The Council approved a motion to distribute $162,000 to EDCVC, $10,000 to the Veterans Banner Program, and $10,000 to the tennis backboard.
Future Agenda Items
- Councilmember Lopez requested an informational presentation on electric bike safety, state regulations, and potential municipal code updates.
- Staff noted that regional agencies are addressing rising injuries involving high-speed e-bikes and that state laws are pending.
- The Council directed staff to prepare an informational presentation on e-bike safety for a future agenda.
- Councilmember Lopez withdrew a separate request for an informational presentation on ALPR oversight after a recent vendor presentation addressed concerns.
City Manager Comments
- The City Manager provided updates on upcoming community events, including "Touch a Truck" and "Spooktacular."
- The West Ventura County Business Alliance extended the deadline for Legacy Award nominations to September 25.
- The City Manager reported on the success of the California Coastal Cleanup Day, noting approximately 1,100 pounds of debris collected.
- Upcoming items for the October 5 meeting include proclamations for awareness months and an El Nino preparedness report.
Council Member Comments
- Council members provided updates on their respective activities, including attending EDCVC meetings and Boys and Girls Club board meetings.
- One Council member raised a concern about a diesel fuel odor traced to the Port, noting that the Port’s response was slow.
- Another Council member reported attending a site authority retreat for Cal State Channel Islands regarding a campus power plant project.
- The Mayor reported attending the Military Appreciation Dinner and upcoming travel for the Mobility 21 Summit.
Public Comment / Member Updates
- A member reported attending a coastal monitoring technology meeting, noting advancements in fixed camera mounts and landslide detection systems.
- A member announced that the Port of Hueneme will host a banana festival on Saturday, noting their personal attendance with a classic car.
- A member stated that the Lions Club will have a booth at the festival to give away free vegetable plants and partner with the animal shelter.
Closed Session
- The Council convened a closed session at 5:30 PM to hold conferences with labor negotiators pursuant to Government Code Section 54957.6.
- The City Attorney read two agenda items into the record regarding conferences with SEIU and Unrepresented Management and Professional Employees.
- Upon returning to open session at 6:30 PM, the City Attorney reported that there were no reportable actions for either item.
Full summary
Closed Session
- The Council convened a closed session at 5:30 PM. The City Attorney read two agenda items into the record: conferences with labor negotiators pursuant to Government Code Section 54957.6 with SEIU Service Employees International Union 721 and with Unrepresented Management and Professional Employees. The Council recessed to closed session at 5:32 PM. Upon returning to open session at 6:30 PM, the City Attorney reported that there were no reportable actions for either item.
Public Comments (Non-Agenda)
- Port Hueneme: The Public Information Officer provided materials regarding fueling and bunkering operations, noting that operations are regulated and use clean fuels, and invited the public to the upcoming Banana Festival.
- Rilkeby Outdoors: A representative announced a successful open house and promoted an upcoming Family Fish Day event at Hueneme Pier.
- Resident Concerns: A resident raised concerns regarding speeding and stunt driving on Ocean View Drive, submitting a letter signed by approximately 30 residents requesting the installation of speed bumps on Ocean View Drive and parking lots B and C. The City Manager noted that the police department is increasing enforcement and patrol in the area and committed to following up with the Public Works Department to evaluate the area for potential speed cushions, referencing the City Council’s adopted policy and process.
Agenda Approval
- A motion was made and seconded to approve the evening’s agenda. The motion passed unanimously.
Presentation: Water Supply Conservation and Water Quality Bond Measure D
- Tara Mullally of the United Water Conservation District (UWCD) presented details on Measure D, a $350 million general obligation bond measure scheduled for the November 3 ballot. The bond would fund three projects totaling $469 million: 1. Santa Felicia Dam Safety Improvement Project ($314 million): Seismic retrofitting, spillway capacity increase, and dam crest raising to meet regulatory mandates. 2. Freeman Diversion Improvement Project ($104 million): Improvements to fish passage and conveyance system capacity to meet National Marine Fisheries Service requirements and increase groundwater recharge. 3. Extraction Barrier and Brackish Water Treatment Project ($51 million for Phase 1): Construction of a barrier near Point Magoo to stop seawater intrusion, in collaboration with the U.S. Navy.
- Funding sources include $31.5 million in secured grants and an $83 million WIFIA loan, leaving a gap of $354.5 million to be covered by the bond. The projected tax rate is approximately $24 per $100,000 of assessed value, estimated at $121 per year for the average Ventura County homeowner. The tax would begin in fiscal year 2028 and sunset in approximately 30 years. Questions addressed included the potential impact of a magnitude 7.2–7.4 earthquake on the current dam structure and the consequences of the measure failing. A community meeting for Port Hueneme is scheduled for October 6.
Presentation: US 101 Improvement Program
- Amanda Fagan, Director of Planning and Sustainability for the Ventura County Transportation Commission (VCTC), presented the status of the US-101 Improvement Project, which extends from Moorpark Road in Thousand Oaks to State Route 33 in Ventura. The project aims to improve trip reliability and traffic operations. Three alternatives are under study: a no-build scenario, an HOV/express bus lane with auxiliary lanes, and a similar configuration with design variations. The draft environmental document is scheduled for public circulation beginning September 30, with public hearings in corridor cities in November 2026. The project includes a mitigation program committing $243 million (approximately 20% of total costs) to multimodal improvements, including transit investments. Questions addressed included the effectiveness of HOV lanes in mitigating congestion and the rationale for emphasizing express bus service.
Proclamation: National Hispanic Heritage Month
- Councilmember Lopez read a proclamation designating September 15 through October 15, 2026, as National Hispanic Heritage Month in Port Hueneme. Representatives from the Oxnard LULAC Council 3147 and the Ventura County LULAC Foundation accepted the proclamation. They highlighted LULAC’s role in civil rights, economic justice, and community events, including the upcoming "Viva La Mujer" event.
Consent Calendar
- A motion was made to approve the consent calendar. Councilmember Lopez requested to pull Item 3 for discussion. The motion was amended to approve Items 1, 2, and 4. The amended motion passed unanimously.
- Item 3 Discussion (Vehicle Purchase): Councilmember Lopez raised concerns regarding a quote for a dump truck chassis, noting a warning that prices are subject to 2027 model increases and that the order is non-cancellable. Staff explained that the chassis is delivered and then upfitted, and while price changes are possible during the upfitting window, they have not occurred in past transactions with the vendor. Councilmember Lopez inquired about the timeline for transitioning from diesel to electric vehicles under the city’s Advanced Clean Fleets compliance plan. Staff responded that they are evaluating electric options, noting that the current vehicle qualifies for a CARB exemption because an equivalent Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) is not currently available for that specific spec. Staff mentioned ongoing studies for charging infrastructure and potential grant funding from the Clean Power Alliance for transitioning heavier duty equipment.
- Item 3 Vote: A motion was made and seconded to approve Item 3. The motion passed unanimously.
Business Item 5: Automated License Plate Readers (ALPR) / Axon Enterprises 10-Year Sole Source Purchase Agreement
- The City Manager introduced the item, noting that the police department is seeking to replace existing Flock ALPR cameras with Axon Outpost cameras to address privacy concerns and improve data safeguards. A representative from Axon Enterprises presented a proposal for a 10-year bundle including 10 Axon Outpost ALPR cameras, body-worn cameras, Taser 10 devices with a virtual reality (VR) training program, and a Skydio drone for first responder use. The presentation highlighted that the system uses license plate recognition based on state and national hot lists rather than facial recognition. Data ownership remains with the police department, stored in the Axon Evidence.com platform, with no external agency access unless explicitly authorized by the department. The proposal includes a Technology Assurance Plan (TAP) that refreshes hardware (drones, body cameras, VR headsets) every 2.5 years.
- Police Department staff provided context on current operations, noting that the department has used Axon body cameras since 2020 and Taser devices since 2006. They stated that the current ALPR system (Flock) has a 30-day retention policy for non-evidentiary data and that the department currently pays approximately $30,000 annually for 10 Flock cameras. Staff indicated that switching to Axon Outpost would save approximately $100,000 over the 10-year term compared to staying with Flock, assuming no price increases from Flock. The bundled Axon contract was estimated at approximately $102,000 for the first year and roughly $117,000 for years two through ten. Staff also addressed drone compliance, stating that the proposed Skydio drones are NDAA-compliant, allowing for potential collaboration with the nearby Naval Base, unlike the current non-compliant drones.
- Council members and staff discussed several operational and legal aspects:
- Policy and Compliance: Council Member Lopez raised concerns regarding California Civil Code SB 34 requirements for public reporting on ALPR usage and audit trails. Staff acknowledged that current policies may need re-evaluation to ensure full compliance and stated they would consult with legal counsel.
- Installation Costs: Council Member Lopez asked if Axon had surveyed the 10 camera locations for potential "complex" installation costs. Staff confirmed Axon had not surveyed the sites but indicated that existing pole infrastructure was similar to previous installations, and no issues were anticipated.
- Drone Operations: Sergeant Bates explained that the department currently operates under FAA Part 107 and a Certificate of Authorization (COA). He noted that while they do not currently fly over the Naval Base due to drone compliance issues, the new Skydio drones would allow for such operations if an MOU is established.
- Data Security and Sharing: Council members inquired about data security, hacking risks, and inter-agency data sharing. Axon representatives stated they have not heard of any hacks in their 10-year history and that the system is closed-loop, meaning data is not shared with other agencies unless the Port Hueneme Police Department explicitly authorizes it. Staff confirmed that current Flock data is not shared with other agencies without a specific request and approval from the department.
- Cost Savings: Staff clarified that the savings come from bundling services and locking in prices for 10 years, avoiding anticipated annual increases from the current vendor.
- Public Comment: One member of the public expressed opposition to ALPRs, citing concerns about mass surveillance, constitutional rights, and previous data sharing practices by the city. They argued that surveillance does not equal safety and that the technology represents an overreach of government power.
- A motion was made to approve the recommendation to authorize staff to enter into a 10-year sole source purchase agreement with Axon Enterprises Inc. for the Taser Certification Bundle, VR Program, body-worn cameras, Axon Outpost cameras, and patrol drone. The motion was seconded. During discussion, Council members expressed support for the technology's role in public safety and crime solving, while also emphasizing the need for strict oversight. Specific conditions or requests for oversight included:
- Updating police policy and submitting it to legal counsel for review to ensure compliance with all laws.
- Providing quarterly reports to the Council during the first year of the contract.
- Establishing an ordinance to provide Council oversight, including 30-day automatic deletion of non-hit data, prohibition of out-of-state sharing, quarterly police audits, annual Council reports, and requiring Council review for any system expansion.
- The Council voted on the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
Agenda Item: Veterans Advisory Ad Hoc Committee and Veterans Banner Program Update
- A representative from the Veterans Advisory Ad Hoc Committee and REACH provided an update on the Veterans Banner Program. They reported that 19 banners were installed in July, receiving positive community response. Issues identified from the first round included banners being mounted too high, font size being too small, and designs being too busy. Plans for the next round (before Veterans Day) include lowering the banners, increasing font size, simplifying designs, and adding sponsorships. The committee is working to firm up eligibility requirements and payment processes, noting that some veterans lacked standard DD-214 discharge papers, requiring alternative documentation such as obituaries. The deadline for applications for the next round is October 1st.
- Council questions and comments included:
- Placement: Council Member Lopez suggested moving banners to light poles in the median of Ventura Road for better visibility, similar to practices in Oxnard. The representative noted that while there are many light poles, the cost of hardware for installation is a factor. They indicated that future placements would focus on areas like Park Avenue and Surfside, working with City Public Works to determine locations.
- Safety and Accessibility: The Mayor Pro Tem advised ensuring banners are not lowered so much that they are accessible to the public. The representative confirmed the goal was to place them at a level visible to drivers but not within reach.
- Eligibility and Payment: The Mayor Pro Tem asked about the issue of unpaid applications. The representative stated that REACH covered the costs for the first round but emphasized the need to enforce payment and documentation requirements for future rounds.
- Public Comment: A representative from REACH suggested placing banners on slower-moving streets to allow residents to view them safely and proposed expanding eligibility to include non-residents who have served or contributed significantly to the community (e.g., Navy personnel, civil servants, business owners).
- No motion was made or voted upon for this item. The item was for informational purposes and feedback.
Agenda Item 7: Community Benefit Fund Projects
- Staff presented an update on the Community Benefit Fund (CBF), noting that a 2016 amendment to the agreement with the Port changed the process from a joint committee review to a model where the City and Port each manage their portion of the funds. The Council has $196,000 in prior-year funds available for reprogramming. Staff provided information on two projects previously requested by the Council: the Economic Development Collaborative of Ventura County (EDCVC) Business Assistance Loan Fund and Phase 2 of the Veterans Banner Program.
- Bruce Stensley, President and CEO of EDCVC, presented the Business Assistance Loan Fund proposal. He explained that the program would involve a city investment of $150,000 in loan capital, creating a revolving fund that lends approximately $45,000 to $60,000 annually at 6% interest. The program targets existing small businesses for job retention and growth, with only 10–15% of loans going to startups. EDCVC manages the loans through a small business development center, a volunteer loan board, and state loan guarantees. Stensley noted that the city’s capital would remain intact after seven years due to repayments and interest. Two funding options were presented: a one-time payment of $162,000 to establish the fund and cover initial administration, or a three-year payment schedule.
- Public comment was received from Rich Rollins, who requested funding for a soundproof tennis backboard at Miranda Park, estimating the cost at approximately $10,000 including installation. Another public comment raised concerns about safety hazards at the dog park, suggesting that remaining funds be allocated for improvements there.
- Discussion among Council members focused on the allocation of the $196,000. Concerns were raised regarding credit risk and the need for performance metrics, to which EDCVC responded that they would provide quarterly reports on loans made, portfolio performance, and jobs created. The City Attorney noted that any approved spending categories must be reviewed for compliance with the settlement agreement.
- A motion was made to distribute the $196,000 as follows: $162,000 for the EDCVC Business Assistance Loan Fund, $10,000 for the Veterans Banner Program Phase 2, and $10,000 for the tennis backboard at Miranda Park, with the remaining balance to be determined for future use, potentially including the dog park. The motion included a requirement for City Attorney concurrence. The motion passed unanimously.
Agenda Item 8: Future Agenda Items
- Councilmember Lopez requested an informational presentation on electric bike (e-bike) safety, state regulations, enforcement trends, and potential updates to the Port Hueneme Municipal Code. Context was provided regarding rising injuries and collisions involving high-speed e-bikes in the region. Staff noted that the Ventura County Association of Governments (VCOG) and other agencies are also addressing this issue, and that state laws are pending. The Council directed staff to prepare an informational presentation on e-bike safety for a future agenda. The motion passed unanimously.
- Councilmember Lopez also requested an informational presentation on automatic license plate readers (ALPRs) and oversight of the current vendor. After noting that a recent presentation by the vendor, Axion, had addressed some concerns, Councilmember Lopez withdrew this specific request.
City Manager Comments
- The City Manager provided updates on upcoming community events, including "Touch a Truck" on October 10 and "Spooktacular" on October 21. The West Ventura County Business Alliance extended the deadline for their Legacy Award nominations to September 25. The City Manager also reported on the success of the California Coastal Cleanup Day, noting approximately 1,100 pounds of debris collected. The Bolker Drive Emergency Storm Drain Repair Project is ongoing. Upcoming items for the October 5 meeting include proclamations for Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Domestic Violence Awareness Month, an El Nino preparedness report, a Hueneme Hero Award policy update, and a resolution regarding Proposition 43, as requested by the League of Cities.
Council Member Comments
- Council members provided updates on their respective activities. One Council member attended an EDCVC meeting and noted the presence of autonomous drone technology companies in Ventura County. Another Council member attended the Boys and Girls Club board meeting and discussed preparations for their annual gala. One Council member reflected on the improvement in organization and equipment for the coastal cleanup compared to previous years and raised a concern about a diesel fuel odor traced to the Port, noting that the Port’s response was slow. Another Council member reported attending a site authority retreat for Cal State Channel Islands, where a project regarding the campus power plant was referred to the Clean Power Alliance for potential revenue development. This Council member also highlighted Clean Power Alliance community benefits, such as gift certificates for air conditioning units, which should be shared with residents. The Mayor reported attending the Military Appreciation Dinner and upcoming travel for the Mobility 21 Summit and other meetings.
Public Comment / Member Updates
- A member reported attending a coastal monitoring technology meeting, noting advancements in fixed camera mounts and landslide detection systems. The member observed that while other coastal communities focus on landslide risks, Port Hueneme benefits from sediment movement. The member also mentioned attending a Ventura County meeting regarding an ongoing issue involving a dog named Bruce and stated they were assigned to an ad hoc committee to review and improve the operations manual.
- A member announced that the Port of Hueneme will host a banana festival on Saturday, noting their personal attendance with a classic car.
- A member stated that the Lions Club will have a booth at the festival to give away free vegetable plants and will partner with the animal shelter to provide spay and neuter services.
Adjournment
- The chair asked if there was any other business. The regular meeting was adjourned until Monday, October 5th, at 6:30 PM.