City Council — October 12, 2026

Bullying Prevention Month Proclamation

• The Council accepted a proclamation declaring October 2026 as Bullying Prevention Month.
• Representatives from the Simi Valley Unified School District and Youth Council received the proclamation.
• The Youth Council is coordinating a citywide campaign including a "Stop Bullying Pledge" and "Unity Day" events.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month Proclamation

• Police Chief Shorts presented a proclamation declaring October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
• Jill Abala of Suroptimist International accepted the proclamation on behalf of the organization.
• Statistics regarding domestic violence prevalence and the organization's fundraising efforts for survivors were shared.

California Flood Preparedness Week Proclamation

• Assistant Public Works Director Chris Oberender presented a proclamation for the week of October 17–24, 2026.
• The presentation included practical tips for flood preparedness, such as clearing downspouts and gathering sandbags.
• The city’s participation in the National Flood Insurance Program was noted during the presentation.

Down Syndrome Awareness Month Proclamation

• The Council accepted a proclamation declaring October 2026 as Down Syndrome Awareness Month.
• Frankie Cohen of Gigi’s Playhouse and other representatives accepted the proclamation.
• Statements emphasized the importance of inclusion, acceptance, and celebrating the abilities of individuals with Down syndrome.

Simi Valley Baseball League Commendation

• Certificates of Commendation were presented to the Simi Valley Baseball League 10U and 12U teams.
• The teams were recognized for becoming Cal Ripken Southern California State Champions.
• Players and coaches from both teams were formally recognized by the Council.

Youth Council Informational Presentation

• Dia Bantu presented an update on the 2026–2027 term, including activities like the Student-Run Candidate Forum.
• The Council discussed upcoming events such as the Youth Summit and an anti-bullying pledge at the Street Fair.
• The Youth Council reported receiving two Friday Night Live grants for cannabis use prevention and youth gambling campaigns.

Simi Valley Chamber of Commerce Report

• Kathy Van Etten presented a report covering the period from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026.
• The Chamber reported holding Five-Star accreditation, hosting the Street Fair, and conducting 41 ribbon cuttings.
• The report highlighted legislative advocacy efforts, monitoring of 37 bills, and the "Film Simi Valley" initiative.

Tiny Homes on Wheels (THOW) Ordinance Direction

• Staff presented three options for allowing THOWs as permanent dwelling units, noting current classification as RVs.
• Council members debated the options, with concerns raised regarding RHNA counting, building quality, and enforcement costs.
• The Council directed staff to initiate municipal code amendments based on Option 3, which allows THOWs in all residential zoning districts.

CalPERS Contract Amendment

• Staff presented a resolution and ordinance to amend the CalPERS contract to incorporate 2013 PEPRA language.
• The amendment is required by CalPERS to align the contract with mandated benefit formulas.
• The Council adopted the resolution and introduced the ordinance for first reading with no financial impact.

Closed Session

• The City Attorney reported no items from closed session.

Opening and Agenda Review

• The meeting was opened, and the City Attorney reported no items from closed session. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited, and roll call confirmed all members were present. A supplemental item was noted for Agenda Item 9B. A motion was made and seconded to read all resolutions and ordinances in title only and waive further reading; the motion passed unanimously. No conflicts of interest were declared.

Item 1D1: Proclamation for Bullying Prevention Month

• A proclamation declaring October 2026 as Bullying Prevention Month was presented. Don Smolin, President of the Simi Valley Unified School District Board, and members of the Simi Valley Youth Council accepted the proclamation. A statement noted that one in five American students reports being bullied and that the Youth Council is coordinating a citywide campaign, including a "Stop Bullying Pledge" at the City Expo and Simi Valley Street Fair on October 24 and "Unity Day" on October 21. The proclamation was accepted.

Item 1D2: Proclamation for Domestic Violence Awareness Month

• A proclamation declaring October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month was presented by Police Chief Shorts. Jill Abala of Suroptimist International of Simi Valley accepted the proclamation. Statistics regarding domestic violence were shared, including that one in four women will experience domestic violence in their lifetime. Suroptimist International highlighted their fundraising efforts and awards for survivors. The proclamation was accepted.

Item 1D3: Proclamation for California Flood Preparedness Week

• A proclamation declaring the week of October 17–24, 2026, as California Flood Preparedness Week was presented by Assistant Public Works Director of Engineering Chris Oberender. The presentation included tips for flood preparedness, such as clearing downspouts and gathering sandbags, and noted the city’s participation in the National Flood Insurance Program. The proclamation was accepted.

Item 1D4: Proclamation for Down Syndrome Awareness Month

• A proclamation declaring October 2026 as Down Syndrome Awareness Month was presented. Frankie Cohen, Executive Director of Gigi’s Playhouse, and others accepted the proclamation. Statements emphasized the importance of inclusion, acceptance, and celebrating the abilities of individuals with Down syndrome. The proclamation was accepted.

Item 1D5: Certificates of Commendation for Simi Valley Baseball League

• Certificates of Commendation were presented to the Simi Valley Baseball League 10U and 12U teams for becoming Cal Ripken Southern California State Champions. Players and coaches from both teams were recognized. The certificates were presented.

Item 2: Public Statements

• One in-person speaker, Deb Dickerson, addressed the council regarding Domestic Violence Awareness Month. She shared her experience as a former police officer and emphasized the need for year-round conversation about the cycle of violence. No online speakers raised their hands to speak.

Item 3B1: Informational Presentation by Youth Council

• Dia Bantu, a Youth Council member, presented an update on the 2026–2027 term. Activities included leading a Student-Run Candidate Forum, attending the Friday Night Live Youth Summit, and hiding painted rocks in Lemon Park. Upcoming events included the Youth Summit on October 16, a report to the School Board on October 20, and an anti-bullying pledge at the Street Fair on October 24. The Youth Council reported receiving two Friday Night Live grants for cannabis use prevention and youth gambling problem campaigns. Council members asked questions regarding the number of rocks hidden and the nature of the grants. Councilmember Ayala suggested the Youth Council consider an education campaign on dating violence among teens, to which staff responded that a similar workshop was planned for January or February.

Item 3C1: Presentation by Simi Valley Chamber of Commerce

• Kathy Van Etten, President and CEO of the Simi Valley Chamber of Commerce, presented a report covering July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026. The Chamber reported holding Five-Star accreditation, hosting the Simi Valley Street Fair (with over 18,000 attendees), organizing job fairs, and conducting 41 ribbon cuttings. The report highlighted the Leadership Simi Valley program, the Good Morning Simi Valley Breakfast, and the diversion of nearly 130 tons of electronic waste. The Chamber also detailed its legislative advocacy, monitoring 37 bills, and its role in the "Film Simi Valley" initiative. Council members asked questions regarding the Five-Star accreditation status and coordination with the city on film production efforts. The presentation concluded with acknowledgments of the partnership between the Chamber and the City.

Item 4: Public Statements

• The City Clerk opened the session for public comments, noting that no public hearings were scheduled and that all statements would be heard under this item. Speakers were called in the order their speaker cards were received, with a three-minute limit per speaker.
• Tiny Homes on Wheels (THOW) Ordinance: Multiple speakers addressed the staff report regarding options for allowing Tiny Homes on Wheels as permanent dwelling units.
• Support for Option 3: Ben Davis (President of Picola Tiny Homes), Brooke Grayson (community member/real estate professional), Cathy Van Etten (Simi Valley Chamber of Commerce), Enrique Morales (tiny home builder/developer), Don Duncan (RV developer), Glenn Becerra (former council member), Ellen Stone (Tiny Homes Central founder), and Todd Taylor (Council candidate) spoke in favor of moving forward with Option 3 or directing staff to develop it. Arguments included lower costs compared to ADUs, the need for affordable housing for seniors and families, and the ability to meet Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) requirements. Several speakers requested that staff address concerns regarding safety, inspections, code enforcement, and neighborhood compatibility through specific ordinance safeguards (e.g., residential appearance, screened wheels, utility connections). Todd Taylor suggested considering a pilot program similar to Ojai’s.
• RHNA Clarification: Enrique Morales argued that THOWs can count toward RHNA numbers, citing precedents in Los Angeles, San Diego, and Placer County, and requested that the city adopt this classification.
• General Support: Ryan Huggins (Kaneohe-Simi Moorpark Association of Realtors) encouraged the Council to continue assessing the proposal to expand housing options.
• Immigration Enforcement and Community Safety: Several speakers raised concerns regarding recent ICE activity in Simi Valley.
• Concerns Raised: Speakers including Erin Booker, Unidentified Speaker 16, Unidentified Speaker 21, Shaley Trivedi, Ken Hurst, Unidentified Speaker 25, Jamie Sanchez, and Brianna (10-year-old student) described incidents involving ICE agents, including vehicle damage, detentions, and perceived threats to community safety. They expressed concern over the impact on immigrant families and the city’s reputation.
• Requests for Action: Speakers requested that the City Council establish an Immigration Stakeholder Committee, similar to those in Moorpark and Oxnard. They also urged the Council to support community town halls, share information about residents' rights, and coordinate with local law enforcement and community organizations to address safety concerns. Ken Hurst announced the third Simi Immigration Town Hall meeting scheduled for October 18.
• Other Topics:
• Landfill/MOU: James McGillis requested that the Council place a future agenda item to strengthen the 2011 Memorandum of Understanding with Waste Management, examine annexation of the landfill property, and survey residents regarding the landfill. He referenced a previous proposal by Mayor Cavanaugh and a second by Mayor Pro Tem Litzter that did not appear on the current agenda.
• Veterans: Frank Tomlinson thanked the Council for its support of the veteran community and the banner program. He emphasized the need to connect younger veterans with resources and employment opportunities and expressed support for Ben Davis and Picola Tiny Homes.

Council Comments on Public Statements

• Council Member Ayala: Acknowledged the immigration comments, stating she would review actions taken by Moorpark and continue engaging with community coalition meetings. She reserved comments on THOWs for the specific agenda item.
• Mayor Pro Tem Litzter: Acknowledged the THOW comments and noted she had taken notes on new information provided.
• Council Member (Unidentified, likely Rhodes based on context): Expressed interest in learning more about the structure of an immigration stakeholder committee and commended the efforts of community organizers.
• Mayor Cavanaugh: Acknowledged the landfill issue, stating it would be discussed within the next two meetings. She also commended Brianna for her participation.

Item 7: Consent Calendar

• A motion was made to approve the consent calendar. The motion was seconded. The motion passed unanimously.

Item 9A: Request for Direction on Possible Amendments to the Simi Valley Municipal Code to Allow Tiny Homes on Wheels as Permanent Dwelling Units on Residential Properties

Staff Presentation

• Deputy Environmental Services Director Shawn Gibson and Assistant Planner Sarah Martinez were introduced to present the item. Assistant Planner Sarah Martinez began the presentation. Staff presented an evaluation of allowing Tiny Homes on Wheels (THOW) as permanent residences, following a July 27 City Council directive. Staff noted that THOWs are currently classified as recreational vehicles (RVs) under Health and Safety Code Section 18009.3 and are not permitted for permanent habitation. Staff highlighted that recent California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) guidance states THOWs constructed to RV standards cannot be classified as Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) or counted toward Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) goals.
• Staff outlined three options for the Council: 1. Option 1: Continue allowing non-movable tiny homes under existing municipal code as ADUs if placed on permanent foundations and meeting building/manufactured home standards. This requires no code amendment but may require manufacturers to modify units. 2. Option 2: Allow THOWs as accessory livable units in specific zoning districts (Open Space, Residential Estate, Residential Very Low) with larger lot sizes. 3. Option 3: Allow THOWs as accessory livable units in all residential zoning districts, constructed to ANSI standards.
• Staff noted that Options 2 and 3 would require additional resources for regulation development, permit administration, and potential life safety inspections. Staff requested Council direction on which option to pursue.

Council Discussion

• Mayor Pro Tem Litster: Expressed support for allowing THOWs if they could count toward RHNA numbers. Acknowledged that since they currently cannot, the Council must decide if the benefits to residents outweigh the risks. Raised concerns about building quality, distinguishing THOWs from RVs, and the need for deed restrictions. Asked staff if it is possible to preclude inferior quality or RV dwelling through ordinance.
• Staff Response (Planning): Confirmed that ordinances can be written to distinguish THOWs from RVs. Noted that quality control for pre-owned units is difficult to standardize.
• Building Official (Ted Drago): Clarified that ANSI standards for THOWs are distinct from the California Building Code. Building and Safety would not inspect the THOW structure itself but would permit utility hookups (water, sewer, electric) and ensure zoning compliance. Recommended keeping THOWs under separate regulatory standards to maintain low regulatory burden.
• Council Member Ayala: Supported Option 3. Argued that existing code mechanisms (setbacks, renewable permits, inspection conditions) can address staff concerns. Suggested requiring 100% electric units to eliminate propane fire hazards and using visual characteristics (roof equipment, siding) to distinguish THOWs from RVs. Emphasized that the current motion is to direct staff to draft an ordinance, not to approve the final code.
• Council Member Judge: Agreed with Council Member Ayala’s points.
• Council Member Rhoads: Opposed permitting THOWs at this time. Argued that THOWs do not count toward RHNA, do not increase assessed property value (thus generating no tax revenue to offset enforcement costs), and could lead to unintended density increases. Suggested the Council should instead lobby HCD to classify THOWs as ADUs, which would resolve the tax and RHNA issues. Noted that objective design standards are easier to enforce if THOWs are not classified as ADUs.
• Mayor Cavanaugh: Asked about utility connection fees and requirements. Staff confirmed fees are minimal (one-time permit fees) and connections would be lateral to the existing home’s sewer line. Mayor Cavanaugh supported the idea of renewable permits and ANSI certification requirements.
• Mayor Pro Tem Litster: Suggested limiting eligibility to units built after a certain date (e.g., 2020) to ensure quality.
• Council Member Rhoads: Clarified that Option 1 was not intended to mean "no action" but rather to wait for HCD to define THOWs as ADUs before drafting local code.
• Council Member Ayala: Reiterated support for Option 3, arguing that Option 1 would effectively ban THOWs because manufacturers would not change construction standards for one city.

Motions and Votes

• 1. Motion by Council Member Rhoads: To take no action to initiate municipal code amendments at this time and direct staff to continue allowing non-movable tiny homes constructed to California Building Standards Code (CBC) standards or meeting Health and Safety Code Section 18007 requirements.
• Second: None.
• Outcome: Motion failed.
• 2. Motion by Council Member Ayala: To direct staff to initiate municipal code amendments based on Option 3, including research on financial impacts and potential liability issues arising because THOWs are currently not subject to the building code.
• Second: Council Member Judge.
• Outcome: Motion passed.

Item 9B: Amendment to CalPERS Contract

Presentation

• Deputy Human Resources Director Jennifer Gutierrez and Senior Human Resources Analyst Jamie Cross presented Resolution No. 2026-51 and Ordinance No. 1375. The items seek to amend the contract between the City of Simi Valley and the California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS) to incorporate 2013 PEPRA (Public Employees’ Pension Reform Act) language. CalPERS recently requested this amendment to align the contract with mandated benefit formulas implemented in 2013.

Discussion

• Council Member Judge: Asked if the City had a choice in the matter. Staff confirmed the amendment is required by CalPERS.
• Mayor Pro Tem Litster: Confirmed there is no financial impact, as it is a language change only.

Motions and Votes

• Motion by Council Member Judge: To adopt Resolution No. 2026-51 and introduce Ordinance No. 1375 for first reading.
• Second: The motion was seconded.
• Outcome: Motion passed unanimously.

Item 10A: Council Member Reports

• Council Member Ayala: Reported on meetings with City Manager regarding CalPERS, attendance at the Film Simi Valley Subcommittee, Leadership Simi Valley reception, Oktoberfest, swearing-in of Officer Ian Walker, North Canyon development review, Paw Spa opening, Senior Center Pancake Breakfast, Simi High School Band Spectacular, and Council on Aging Subcommittee meeting.
• Council Member Rhoads: Reported on CEHD briefing, SCAG Executive Administration Committee, CEHD committee meeting (chaired), Regional Council meeting, Clean Power Alliance meeting, Mobility 21 conference, swearing-in of Officer Ian Walker, VCOG dinner, Rotary Club Pancake Breakfast (served 141 breakfasts, raised funds for Meals on Wheels).
• Council Member Judge: Reported on Student Forum, Chamber of Commerce candidate forum, SCAG AC meeting, SCAG Regional Council and Transportation Committee meetings, Mobility 21, Las Vegas bowling trip, VCOG dinner, Ventura County Transportation Committee meeting, Paw Spa grand opening, Senior Center Arts and Crafts Fair, Pancake Breakfast, and Free Clinic fundraiser run.
• Mayor Pro Tem Litster: Reported on Public Works Director interviews, Metropolitan Water District tour of Hoover Dam and Parker Dam (stepped in for Raul Avila), swearing-in of Officer Ian Walker, North Canyon Ranch conversation, VCOG dinner, meeting with Ben Davis of Piccolo Tiny Homes, Paw Spa grand opening, and Senior Center Fall Arts and Crafts Fair.
• Mayor Cavanaugh: Reported on Public Works Director interviews, Kiwanis Brews and Kegs volunteer event, grandson’s baseball game, and absence from Free Clinic fundraiser due to illness.

Item 10B: Items for Future Agenda

• No items were presented.

Memorial Moment

• The Council observed a moment of silence for retired Simi Valley Police Officer Brian Chandler, CHP Officer Brian Lyles, and Dennis Waters. Council Member Judge offered remarks for Joe Costello, a local businessman and community member, noting his contributions to the city and expressing condolences to his family.

Adjournment

• The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn. The motion was made, seconded, and passed.