Meeting Summary
Present: LaVere, Gorell, Long, Lopez, Parvin
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
Solar Generator Donation
- Staff proposed accepting a donation of 50 solar generators and 100 panels valued at $35,000.
- The equipment is intended for search and rescue volunteers, the Fire Department, and local cities.
- The board approved the authorization to accept the donation.
Fall Prevention Awareness Month Proclamation
- Medical and fire officials presented data on fall-related injuries among older adults.
- The board designated September 2025 as Fall Prevention Awareness Month.
- An upcoming awareness event was announced for September 26.
Hunger Action Month Proclamation
- FoodShare Ventura County reported on the impact of federal cuts to food assistance programs.
- The board designated September 2025 as Hunger Action Month.
- The organization highlighted its annual fundraiser and service statistics.
Grand Jury Report Response
- Staff presented the county's response to the 2024-2025 Grand Jury report on Animal Services.
- The county concurred with six findings and partially agreed with four others.
- The board approved the response, noting that some recommendations depend on Commission cooperation.
SB 1 Transportation Grant Ratification
- Staff presented a $11.35 million grant for widening Wainimi Road from two to four lanes.
- The project includes a paved median and buffered bike lanes with a target completion date of 2031.
- The board ratified the grant application to support final design and right-of-way positioning.
Outdoor Events Ordinance Enforcement
- Staff outlined challenges in enforcing the outdoor events ordinance, including lack of advance notice for events.
- The board directed staff to explore alternatives to self-registration and streamline the Conditional Use Permit process.
- Supervisors requested a review of other jurisdictions' practices and potential extensions for permit terms.
Fire Protection District Ordinance No. 34
- The board adopted the ordinance incorporating the 2025 California Fire Code and local amendments.
- Key amendments include notification requirements for real estate transactions in high-hazard zones.
- The board noted that agricultural exemptions and appeals processes may be addressed through future off-cycle amendments.
Non-Coastal Zoning Ordinance Amendments (Clerical)
- Staff presented clerical and clarifying edits to streamline zoning processes.
- The amendments include shifting certain contexts from Conditional Use Permits to Planned Development.
- The board approved the staff recommendation to adopt the amendments.
Non-Coastal Zoning Ordinance Amendments (Program HE-H)
- Staff proposed amending affordability requirements for the Residential High Density zone to align with state laws.
- The changes allow for alternative compliance mechanisms such as land donation or unit acquisition.
- The board approved the amendments to maintain compliance with state housing element certification.
Supervisor Comments
- Supervisors reported on recent community events, meetings, and constituent interactions.
- Several supervisors requested the board adjourn in memory of specific individuals.
- Updates were provided on local projects, including housing developments and infrastructure improvements.
Closed Session
- The board adjourned into closed session following the public agenda items.
Full summary
Meeting Start and Roll Call
- The Ventura County Board of Supervisors meeting for September 16, 2025, was called to order by Chair Parvin. The Clerk of the Board called the roll, and all five supervisors (LaVere, Garel, Long, Lopez, and Parvin) were present.
Pledge of Allegiance and Moment of Inspiration
- The board recited the Pledge of Allegiance. The Moment of Inspiration featured Gabby Cifuentes and Nikki Lee, co-founders of the nonprofit Body Brain Train. They presented information on their organization’s fitness and wellness programs for seniors and individuals with Parkinson’s disease, highlighting specific client stories and the organization’s community impact.
Agenda Review and Approval
- Dr. Johnson reviewed the agenda, noting the addition of Item 45 (Closed Session) and listing items 33 through 36 regarding Resource Management Agency and Fire Protection District matters.
- Motion: To approve the agenda as modified.
- Moved by: Supervisor Long.
- Seconded by: Supervisor LaVere.
- Outcome: Passed unanimously.
Consent Agenda (Items 9–27)
- Supervisor Lopez requested clarification on Item 9, which concerns a recommendation to support Dr. Cho and the oncology team at Ventura County Medical Center (VCMC) in exploring local cancer clinical trials. Supervisor Garel explained that the item provides flexibility for the Healthcare Agency and VCMC to pursue partnerships for local trials, potentially reducing the need for patients to travel to Los Angeles. The discussion noted that the initiative is expected to be at no cost to the county and could generate revenue. Supervisor Lopez expressed support and requested a future report on progress and potential partnerships. No speakers were requested for the remaining consent items.
- Motion: To approve the consent agenda.
- Moved by: Supervisor Long.
- Seconded by: Chair Parvin.
- Outcome: Passed unanimously.
Minutes of Previous Meeting (Item 7)
- The board considered the minutes of the meeting held on August 26, 2025.
- Motion: To approve the minutes.
- Moved by: Supervisor Lopez.
- Seconded by: Supervisor LaVere.
- Outcome: Passed unanimously.
General Public Comment
- The board received public comments from several individuals. The comments addressed the following topics:
- Water Rights: Tony Tremblay, a Camarillo City Council member, discussed a lawsuit involving the Oxnard Plain Valley adjudication and its potential threat to the City of Camarillo’s groundwater desalter. He requested the board contact United Water Conservation District regarding their alignment with opposing parties. Supervisor Garel stated that the county is evaluating its position to support the city.
- Voter Registration: Michelle Ascension, County Clerk-Recorder, promoted National Voter Registration Day and provided information on registration deadlines and methods for the upcoming November election.
- Waste Management: Frank Filippelli raised concerns about waste management practices, specifically regarding hazardous wildfire debris, worker safety, and regulatory oversight.
- Labor and Wages: Multiple speakers representing SEIU Local 721 bargaining teams addressed wage disparities, cost of living in Ventura County, housing affordability, and specific departmental issues such as caseloads in Human Services, turnover in Public Works, and workload standards in Children and Family Services. They requested living wages, fair contracts, and the reinstatement of specific workload committees.
- Election Integrity: Several speakers discussed concerns regarding voting system security, voter file irregularities, and the Dominion voting system. They referenced a presentation by Mark Cook and urged the board to review evidence of potential vulnerabilities in the election process.
Agenda Item 30: Donation of Solar Generators
- The board considered the approval of an authorization for Ventura County Emergency Services to accept a donation of 50 Jackery solar generators and 100 solar panels from Everything Lifesaving Foundation Inc., with an estimated value of $35,000.
- Discussion: Staff explained that the equipment would be distributed to search and rescue volunteers, the Ventura County Fire Department Urban Search and Rescue Team, and local cities. Paul Herrera of Everything Lifesaving Foundation discussed the organization’s mission to improve emergency preparedness and resilience.
- Motion: To approve staff recommendations.
- Moved by: Chair Parvin.
- Seconded by: Supervisor Long.
- Outcome: Passed unanimously.
Proclamation: Fall Prevention Awareness Month
- The board considered a proclamation designating September 2025 as Fall Prevention Awareness Month.
- Discussion: Dr. Thomas Duncan, Trauma Medical Director of VCMC, and Chief Dustin Gardner of the Ventura County Fire Department presented information on the coalition’s efforts to prevent falls among older adults. They highlighted the severity of fall-related injuries and announced an upcoming event on September 26 at the Fire Department headquarters.
- Outcome: The board presented the proclamation.
Proclamation: Hunger Action Month
- The board considered a proclamation designating September 2025 as Hunger Action Month.
- Discussion: Supervisor Long presented the item, noting the impact of federal cuts to food assistance programs. Monica White, President and CEO of FoodShare Ventura County, reported that 250,000 people used FoodShare services last year and discussed the financial impact of recent federal food cuts. She mentioned the organization’s annual "Fed Up" fundraiser.
- Outcome: The board presented the proclamation.
Agenda Item 31: Grand Jury Report Response
- The board considered the approval of the response to the 2024-2025 Ventura County Grand Jury Report entitled "Ventura County Animal Services Commission."
- Discussion: Staff presented the grand jury’s review of the Animal Services Commission, which identified concerns regarding governance, facility challenges, staff mental health, language accessibility, and contractual alignment. The county’s proposed response concurred with six findings and partially agreed with four, offering clarifications on the shelter’s open-admission status, budgetary constraints, and spay-neuter partnerships. Staff noted that recommendations 1, 2, 5, and 6 would be implemented with anticipated completion in 2026, contingent on Commission cooperation, while Recommendation 7 (expanding services to Thousand Oaks and Santa Paula) would undergo further analysis regarding capacity and cost.
- Supervisor Comments:
- Supervisor Lopez inquired about the contractual status of Thousand Oaks and Santa Paula, noting that these cities do not currently have contracts with the county and that participation is voluntary. Staff confirmed that the grand jury’s recommendation aimed to explore cost-sharing opportunities with these two additional cities.
- Supervisor LaVere reported a positive meeting with the grand jury following the report’s release, noting the jury’s recognition of recent positive changes in department leadership and operations, including the mobile spay-neuter clinic.
- An unidentified speaker highlighted the performance of Animal Services staff and volunteers during natural disasters, such as the Mountain Fire, as a test of leadership and capability.
- Motion: To approve staff recommendations.
- Moved by: Supervisor LaVere.
- Seconded by: Supervisor Long.
- Outcome: Passed unanimously.
Agenda Item 32: Public Works – Ratification of SB 1 Transportation Corridor Enhancement Program Grant
- Discussion: Staff presented an application for $11,350,000 in grant funds for the widening of Wainimi Road from Edison Drive to Rice Avenue (Phase 1). The project involves widening the road from two lanes to four, including a paved median and buffered bike lanes. Staff noted that while the grant supports final design and right-of-way positioning, approximately $4 million is still needed for design completion and $32 million for construction, with a target completion date of 2031.
- Supervisor Comments: Supervisor Lopez expressed appreciation for the community engagement and ongoing road repaving efforts in the area.
- Motion: To approve staff recommendations.
- Moved by: Supervisor Lopez.
- Seconded by: Chair Parvin.
- Outcome: Passed unanimously.
Agenda Item 33: Resource Management Agency – Outdoor Events Ordinance Enforcement and Amendments
- Discussion: Staff presented an update on the enforcement challenges associated with the county’s outdoor events ordinance. Key issues identified include:
- Enforcement Difficulties: Staff lack advance notice of events, making it difficult to verify attendance counts or document violations in real-time. Current fines are considered insufficient deterrents for commercial operators.
- Regulatory Gaps: The ordinance exempts smaller events (e.g., 75 or fewer attendees on smaller lots) from operational standards such as parking, restrooms, and lighting, creating a competitive disadvantage for venues holding Conditional Use Permits (CUPs).
- Proposed Solutions: Staff recommended several options for board direction, including:
- 1. Self-Registration: Requiring commercial operators (those advertising events for compensation) to register events in advance (72 hours) to track attendance and ensure compliance. 2. Temporary Use Permits (TUPs): Implementing a TUP process for events exceeding exempt thresholds, which would include site inspections for safety and egress. 3. Increased Fines: Raising civil administrative penalties to serve as a financial deterrent. 4. CUP Term Extensions: Extending CUP renewal terms from 5/10 years to 15/20 or 25 years to reduce the burden on compliant operators. 5. Uniform Operational Standards: Applying safety and operational standards to all commercial events, regardless of size.
- Context: Staff noted that the current ordinance structure resulted from a lawsuit that required the county to allow events without CUPs under certain conditions. Staff emphasized that the primary goal is public health and safety, and they are seeking board guidance on the most effective enforcement mechanism.
- Supervisor Comments:
- Supervisor Lopez inquired about the definition of "compensation" and the duration and cost of CUPs. Staff clarified that CUPs take 1–4 years to obtain and cost $60,000–$100,000+ due to CEQA requirements. Supervisor Lopez expressed concern about the burden on property owners and requested a review of other counties’ approaches to ensure fairness and safety.
- Supervisor Garel raised concerns about the enforceability of new regulations, noting that without the ability to verify attendance or access properties, additional rules may be ineffective. He requested that staff provide multiple options (COAs) and research other counties’ ordinances (e.g., San Luis Obispo) before returning to the board. He also questioned the feasibility of a self-registration system given the difficulty of verifying attendance counts.
- Supervisor Parvin inquired about the number of unpermitted venues (estimated at 35–45) and the impact of violations on CUP applications (a 2-year delay). She expressed a desire to reduce the cost and time of the CUP process to encourage compliance.
- Supervisor LaVere questioned whether Temporary Use Permits require CEQA analysis (staff indicated they are typically ministerial and exempt) and suggested that the solution might be uniform operational standards rather than increased bureaucracy. He emphasized the need for a level playing field between CUP holders and exempt operators.
- Staff clarified that self-registration is a low-cost, low-burden notification process, whereas TUPs involve fees and inspections. They noted that most other counties use TUPs for commercial events.
- Public Comment: Representatives of permitted venues, agricultural landowners, and community organizations expressed frustration with the cost and duration of the CUP process, arguing that it creates an unfair competitive disadvantage against unpermitted operators. Some speakers requested agricultural exemptions or carve-outs, citing the inability of rural properties to meet urban fire and water standards. Others emphasized the importance of safety and the need for consistent enforcement against "bad actors" who operate without permits. Several speakers suggested looking to other California counties for models that balance safety with regulatory flexibility.
- Motion: To receive and file the information regarding the enforcement of the county’s outdoor events ordinance and to provide verbal direction to staff. The direction included exploring alternatives to the self-registration form (which the board indicated was not supported), streamlining the CUP process, extending permit terms, reviewing fine structures, and studying practices in other jurisdictions.
- Moved by: Supervisor Long.
- Seconded by: Supervisor Garel.
- Outcome: Passed unanimously.
Agenda Item 34: First Public Hearing on Ventura County Fire Protection District Ordinance No. 34
- Discussion: The Fire Chief and Fire Marshal presented Ordinance No. 34, which repeals previous ordinances and adopts the 2025 California Fire Code, portions of the 2024 International Fire Code, and the International Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) Code. The presentation clarified that while the ordinance appears extensive due to the incorporation of new state codes, only two substantive local amendments are being proposed:
- 1. Inspection Documentation: A requirement to notify the fire department of real estate transactions in high and very high fire hazard severity zones to ensure required inspections are performed, addressing a gap where approximately half of transactions were not being reported. 2. Fire Access Roads: An amendment allowing flexibility in secondary access requirements for properties in certain areas, permitting deviations from standard road width requirements where alternate access is feasible.
- The Fire Marshal noted that many other provisions in the ordinance have been in place for decades but are being re-codified as part of the mandatory three-year code adoption cycle. The board discussed the timeline, noting a January 1, 2026, deadline for adoption by the state and the need for ratification by the seven city councils within the fire district.
- Public Comment: Agricultural representatives, property owners, and community organizations generally opposed the ordinance as drafted, arguing that it imposes urban fire standards (such as water flow and sprinkler requirements) on rural and agricultural properties that lack municipal infrastructure. Specific concerns included:
- The inability of off-grid ranches to meet water availability requirements.
- The lack of explicit agricultural exemptions for sprinkler and fire flow standards, unlike in neighboring counties such as Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, Monterey, and Kern.
- The appeals process, with speakers requesting that the Board of Supervisors retain authority over appeals or that the appeals board include agricultural representation.
- Requests for a multi-jurisdictional task force to address wildfire risks from illegal encampments in the Ventura River Corridor.
- Staff responded by clarifying that the fire department has existing policies exempting certain agricultural buildings (up to 12,000 square feet) from sprinkler requirements, though these are not codified in the ordinance. Staff acknowledged the difficulty of addressing water availability for rural properties but committed to reviewing how other counties handle agricultural exemptions. Regarding the appeals process, staff noted that the current board has been used only three times in the last 20 years and that changes to its composition or authority are possible.
- Supervisors discussed the timeline for adoption. The Fire Marshal recommended against postponing the hearing to ensure the January 1, 2026, deadline is met, as the ordinance must be ratified by seven city councils. However, staff indicated willingness to make changes between the first and second readings and to review agricultural exemptions and appeals processes based on public input. The Fire Chief emphasized that if the local ordinance is not adopted, the county would fall back to the base California Fire Code, which may not reflect local safety priorities.
- Outcome: No motion to adopt or reject the ordinance was taken during this first public hearing. The item was heard for public comment and discussion. The board indicated an intent to review the ordinance for potential amendments, particularly regarding agricultural exemptions and the appeals process, prior to the second reading.
Agenda Item 34 (Continued): Adoption of Ventura County Fire Protection District Ordinance No. 34
- Discussion: The board discussed the adoption of the ordinance, which repeals previous ordinances and adopts the 2025 California Fire Code with specific amendments. Staff clarified that under state law, substantive changes to an ordinance after introduction typically require reintroduction. However, staff recommended approving the ordinance as written to maintain the timeline for the second public hearing scheduled for October 14. Staff noted that any necessary modifications, particularly regarding agricultural exemptions and rural property needs, could be addressed through an off-cycle amendment process or by modifying existing policies that allow for exceptions. Fire Chief Dustin Gardner committed to working with stakeholders and partners to address restrictions and collaborate on solutions. Supervisors discussed the impact on agricultural properties, noting that current exemptions for agriculture are handled through policy rather than the code itself, and that water availability requirements fall outside the Fire Department’s purview.
- Motion: To approve the staff recommendation to adopt the ordinance as written, with the understanding that further discussions and potential off-cycle amendments would occur regarding agricultural exemptions and other stakeholder concerns.
- Outcome: Passed unanimously.
Agenda Item 35: Public Hearing on County-Initiated Amendments to Articles 1 through 15, 17, and 19 of the Ventura County Non-Coastal Zoning Ordinance (Clerical and Clarifying Edits)
- Discussion: The board discussed amendments pertaining to clerical and clarifying edits, including changes to streamline processes such as shifting from Conditional Use Permits (CUP) to Planned Development (PD) in certain contexts. Supervisors expressed appreciation for the staff’s work in simplifying processes for customers and noted that these changes represent a positive step toward improving efficiency.
- Motion: To approve the staff recommendation.
- Outcome: Passed unanimously.
Agenda Item 36: Public Hearing on County-Initiated Amendments to Articles 2, 4, 5, and 9 of the Ventura County Non-Coastal Zoning Ordinance (Implementation of Program HE-H)
- Discussion: Staff presented proposed regulations for the Residential High Density (RHD) zone, established in 2011 to address lower-income housing needs. The proposal amends the affordability requirement from 100% of units to allow for four options, including alternative compliance mechanisms such as land donation, acquisition of existing units, or equivalent actions, to align with state inclusionary housing laws. Staff explained that removing these sites from the housing element inventory would result in non-compliance with state housing element certification and trigger "no net loss" provisions, requiring the identification of new sites. Staff noted that the sites have not been developed in two housing element cycles and that the state may require heightened justification for their viability in the next cycle (starting in 2027). Supervisors raised concerns about the viability of specific parcels in Santa Susana and Piru, citing infrastructure constraints (water, fire, traffic) and high costs. Staff indicated that rezoning or removing sites would be a significant endeavor taking a substantial portion of 2026 and could impact the county’s pursuit of pro-housing designation and associated funding. Staff suggested that if the board desired site reconsideration, it could be framed within the upcoming three-year work plan discussion in March of the following year.
- Motion: To approve the staff recommendation to adopt the amendments as proposed.
- Outcome: Passed by a vote of 4 to 1.
Agenda Item 37: Supervisor Comments
- Supervisors provided comments on recent events and upcoming activities.
- Supervisor Johnson: Noted attendance at the Area 805 Innovation Center site visit, the Housing Trust Fund "Raise the Roof" campaign, and the September 11th remembrance ceremony at the Ventura County Fire Department headquarters. Congratulated Thomas Hunt on becoming the General Services Agency Director. Highlighted the Ventura County Medical Center’s family medicine residency program ranking number one in California and number two in the nation. Announced the start of National Latino Heritage Month and the upcoming Second Annual Disability Summit (September 23–26) and the 2025 Fall Prevention Forum (September 26).
- Supervisor Lopez: Reported attendance at the Central Coast Labor Council picnic, the SCAG Regional Council meeting (discussing LA-28 Olympics involvement), and the Clean Power Alliance board meeting (voting to invite the City of Fillmore to join CPA). Attended the Housing Trust Fund annual event and the grand opening of the Dolores Huerta Gardens (58 units for farm workers and veterans). Attended the Rose Avenue Elementary School ribbon cutting and a Mexican Consulate art exhibit reception. Upcoming events include the California Coastal Cleanup (September 20) and a tsunami preparedness meeting (September 25). Requested the board adjourn in memory of Carol Beck-Flores, a lifelong Oxnard resident and educator.
- Supervisor LaVere: Attended the 9/11 ceremony at Fire Station 23 in Oak View and the Ventura County Healthcare Foundation Ronald McDonald Walk. Requested the board adjourn in memory of Alan Bonner, Douglas Morton, John Brooks, and Brad Halverson.
- Supervisor Grove: Congratulated the Santa Paula Union School District for their Building and Construction Academy. Congratulated the Cabrillo Economic Development Corporation and the CEO’s housing team for the Dolores Huerta Gardens project. Attended the Interface Children and Family Services Hope & Light fundraiser (raising over $450,000). Congratulated Richard Hunt and Craig Hodgson for their service to the regional defense partnership. Attended the CSUCI presidential transition event. Met with CHP Captain Premisario and the City of Fillmore regarding safety issues on Highway 126. Attended a Charlie Kirk event and emphasized the importance of civil discourse and avoiding threats. Requested the board adjourn in memory of individuals on the submitted list.
- Supervisor Reviere: Reported on the Somis Road cleanup, where over 60 bags of trash were collected with the help of community members and students. Announced a "Zone Zero" town hall scheduled for September 17 at the Ventura County Fire Department headquarters in Newbury Park, featuring panelists from the Board of Forestry. Requested the board adjourn in memory of individuals on the submitted list.
- Supervisor Parvin: Provided a report on recent activities and meetings, including:
- A follow-up meeting with a constituent regarding the dangers of Kratom and nitrous oxide.
- Attendance at the quarterly economic vitality meeting, where ideas regarding the upcoming Olympics and cross-district collaboration were shared.
- Guest speaking engagements at the Rotary Club of Simi Sunset and the Moorpark Chamber of Commerce Government Relations meeting.
- Participation in the Economic Development Collaborative Executive Committee meeting, where the president was authorized to sign various grant agreements.
- Presentation of a certificate to the third annual Simi Valley Film Fest.
- Attendance at the Area 805 meeting, including a tour of the innovation center site.
- Participation in the VCTC meeting, where an amendment to the comprehensive transportation plan was approved, and updates on the transportation emergency preparedness plan and rail safety were received.
- Attendance at the Moorpark Simi Valley Chamber Networking Breakfast.
- Participation in ribbon-cutting ceremonies for Sunray Adult Daycare Healthcare, Sedora Carnelian Learning Place, Vision Windows (25th anniversary), and The Hive.
- Attendance at the Blue Mass service at St. Rose of Lima Church.
- Volunteering at the For The Troops golf tournament and the Boys and Girls Golf Tournament.
- Participation in the air pollution control meeting, where resolutions were adopted to accept community air protection funds and fund agricultural replacement measures for emission reductions from the California Air Resource Board.
- Attendance at the monthly Ventura Council of Governments meeting, where Ventura County Emergency Services Director Patrick Maynor presented on the role of elected officials in disaster preparedness and response.
- Presentation of a certificate to Larry Soderlund from Apollo High School for Simi Valley Teacher of the Month.
- Speaking and presenting a certificate at the Waste Management (WM) ribbon-cutting for their new renewable natural gas project.
- Meetings with the Metropolitan Water and Cayugus Water Boards regarding the Delta water project and other county water projects.
- Attendance at a 9-1-1 memorial at Fire Station 41 in Simi Valley.
- Meetings with Edison regarding the general rate case.
- Participation in a blood drive where 52 spots were filled.
- Presentation of a certificate to Adventist Health Simi Valley for their 60th anniversary.
- Attendance at the Simi Valley Filipino Catholic Community Group’s Town Festival.
- A tour of the American Jewish University in Simi Valley to learn about expansion plans.
- Upcoming events, including a Zone Zero panel featuring Assistant Fire Chief Chad Cook, Mayor Dede Cavanaugh, an Edison representative, and the Ventura Regional Fire Safe Council, and a supply drive for active military personnel.
- Announcement that the Simi Valley City Council voted unanimously to participate in the regional radio system.
Correspondence
- Motion: To receive on file items 39 and 40.
- Moved by: Supervisor LaVere.
- Seconded by: Supervisor Lopez.
- Outcome: Passed unanimously.
Adjournment
- The board adjourned into closed session.