Meeting Summary
Present: LaVere, Long, Parvin, Gorell
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
Moment of Inspiration
- Dr. Thomas Duncan presented data on fall-related injuries and economic costs among seniors.
- The presentation covered preventive measures such as exercises, home safety modifications, and medication reviews.
- A video presentation was shown to the Board and the public.
Agenda Review and Approval
- The CEO reviewed the agenda, noting specific items for public comment and presentations.
- The Chair indicated an intention to continue Agenda Item 49 to a future meeting.
- The Board approved the agenda as modified, excluding Items 12 and 35 from the consent calendar.
Approval of Minutes
- The Board approved the minutes of previous meetings.
Board Recommendation for State Legislation (Animal Safe Harbor)
- The Board discussed the need for state legislation to create a safe harbor for municipalities transferring dangerous animals to nonprofits.
- Staff noted that no legislative author has been identified yet, with potential coalition partners under evaluation.
- The Board approved a letter supporting the pursuit of this state legislation.
Waiver of Watercourse Protection Ordinance Fees
- The Watershed Protection District Director explained the fee waiver for preventative work until December 31, 2026.
- The waiver is intended to prepare for anticipated winter storms and a potential El Niño season.
- The Board adopted the resolution waiving specified watercourse protection fees.
Recognition of Ventura County Community Schools
- The Board recognized 19 community school sites across various districts as a "whole child" transformation strategy.
- Presenters highlighted the shift from grant compliance to long-term infrastructure and closing achievement gaps.
- The Board recognized approximately 40 coordinators, educators, and support staff with certificates.
Proposed Action Plan Related to Farm Worker Housing
- Staff presented a five-year collaborative project resulting in a survey, research report, and action plan.
- The plan identifies six housing strategies, including converting vacant land, partnering with faith-based institutions, and expanding ADUs.
- The Board approved staff recommended actions to receive the report and support continued regional collaboration.
Public Hearing Regarding Zoning Ordinance Amendments
- The Board continued the item to November 17 to allow adequate time for stakeholder review of the draft ordinance.
- Public comments addressed concerns regarding permitting requirements for plug-in solar systems and battery energy storage.
- Staff confirmed that a community workshop would be held to gather broader feedback before the future hearing.
Public Emergency Ordinance and Operational Area Agreement
- Staff presented an ordinance to streamline emergency authority and an updated Operational Area Agreement with ten cities.
- Changes include clarifying emergency procurement authorities and updating cost-sharing procedures based on past incidents.
- The Board approved the staff recommendation for both the ordinance and the agreement.
Water Services and Charges (Water Works District 19)
- Staff proposed a three-year water rate increase for Water Works District 19, including pass-through charges and surcharges.
- The proposal includes increases of 12.5% for 2026-27 and 10% for the following two years.
- The Board approved the proposed scheduled increases.
Temporary Closure of Cañada Largo Road
- Staff recommended a temporary closure of a 1.43-mile portion of Cañada Largo Road for up to 18 months.
- The closure is due to findings of serious criminal activity, including trespassing, harassment, and fire risks.
- The Board approved the staff recommended action to close the road.
Appointment to Mobile Home Park Rent Review Board
- The Board approved the appointment of Edith Antico-Carballo to the Ventura County Mobile Home Park Rent Review Board.
Correspondence
- The Board reviewed and received correspondence items for the file.
Closed Session
- The Board authorized the initiation of litigation in two cases by unanimous vote.
- Specific details regarding the defendants and lawsuits are to be disclosed after filing.
Full summary
Agenda Item 3: Pledge of Allegiance
- The Board recited the Pledge of Allegiance.
Agenda Item 4: Moment of Inspiration
- Dr. Thomas Duncan, Trauma Medical Director at Ventura County Medical Center and leader of the Ventura County Elderly Fall Prevention Coalition, presented information regarding Fall Prevention Awareness Month. The presentation covered statistics on fall-related injuries and deaths among seniors, projected economic costs, and recommended preventive measures including evidence-based exercises, home safety modifications, medication reviews, and regular health screenings. A video presentation was shown to the Board and public.
Agenda Item 5: Levine Act Disclosures
- The Chair asked for any Levine Act disclosures. No disclosures were made by Board members.
Agenda Item 6: Agenda Review and Approval
- The CEO reviewed the agenda for September 22, 2026, noting specific items including public comment letters, board letters, and presentations for Items 8, 12, 13, 35, 42, 46, 48, and 49. The Chair noted an intention to continue Agenda Item 49 to a future meeting but did not bring that specific action to a vote at this time.
- Motion: To approve the agenda as modified (excluding Items 12 and 35 from the consent calendar for separate discussion).
- Moved by: Supervisor LaVere.
- Seconded by: Supervisor Parvin.
- Outcome: Passed unanimously.
Agenda Item 7: Approval of Minutes
- Motion: To approve the minutes of the meetings.
- Moved by: Supervisor Lopez.
- Seconded by: Supervisor LaVere.
- Outcome: Passed unanimously.
Agenda Item 8: General Public Comment
- Seven speakers addressed the Board on various topics: 1. Robin Szilagyi: Discussed testimony from former Risk Manager Chuck Poe and Assistant CEO Mike Pettit in the Selvaggi v. County of Ventura lawsuit regarding hiring practices and at-will positions. The speaker served subpoenas to Supervisors Long and LaVere for testimony in the matter. 2. Steve Clair: Spoke in support of Agenda Item 12, urging the Board to stop euthanasia and consider sanctuary models for dogs, citing personal experience rescuing a dog from the euthanasia list. 3. Anonymous Member of the Public: Submitted a written statement regarding a dispute with the Planning Department over setback requirements for porches on their property, alleging that staff demanded demolition or payment of fees for an administrative variance despite the structures being non-conforming and grandfathered. The Planning Director took the speaker’s business card to follow up. 4. Spencer Ritchie: Spoke regarding ICE activities in Ventura County, expressing concern about VCSO cooperation with ICE and access to data. The speaker also opposed potential restrictions on plug-and-play solar panels, citing climate change and power reliability concerns. 5. Ryan Grau (Ventura County Taxpayers Association): Questioned the Board’s plan to use Public Labor Agreements (PLA) for the Santa Paula Hospital project, noting that a promised cost and performance study comparing PLA to open competitive bidding has not been delivered. The speaker requested that Option 2 be bid as a non-PLA open competitive project and that the study be completed before further PLA commitments. 6. Pearl Galvan (Boys and Girls Club of Santa Clara Valley): Expressed gratitude for County funding supporting the club’s operations in Piru. 7. Erin Antrum (Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Oxnard and Port Hueneme): Expressed gratitude for County investment in after-school care, sharing a story of a youth who attended the club and is now attending college.
Agenda Item 12: Board Recommendation for State Legislation (Animal Safe Harbor)
- Supervisor Lopez asked for clarification on the process, specifically regarding input from the Animal Services Director and the identification of a legislative author. The Chair and Supervisor LaVere explained that no author has been identified yet, but the legislative team is evaluating options, potentially involving a coalition with other counties (San Diego, San Luis Obispo) and the Humane Society. Supervisor LaVere stated that local action cannot resolve the liability issues, necessitating state legislation to create a safe harbor for municipalities transferring dangerous animals to qualified nonprofits. Supervisor Parvin commented on the importance of the legislation.
- Motion: To approve the recommended action (Board letter supporting the pursuit of state legislation).
- Moved by: Supervisor Gorrell.
- Seconded by: Supervisor LaVere.
- Outcome: Passed unanimously.
Agenda Item 35: Waiver of Watercourse Protection Ordinance Fees
- Supervisor LaVere invited Director Strakoulos of the Watershed Protection District to present. The Director explained that the resolution waives application fees and deposits for preventative work in watercourses until December 31, 2026, in preparation for anticipated winter storms and a potential El Niño season. The Director noted that while the Governor’s emergency declaration waives certain notification requirements, it does not provide additional funding. Supervisor Lopez asked about communication strategies to inform residents of the fee waiver and the status of emergency declarations. The CEO clarified that the emergency declaration streamlines processes but does not unlock new funds, and a detailed presentation on preparedness is scheduled for October.
- Motion: To adopt the resolution waiving specified watercourse protection fees.
- Moved by: Supervisor Parvin.
- Seconded by: Supervisor LaVere.
- Outcome: Passed unanimously.
Consent Agenda (Items 9–11, 13–34, 36–44)
- Items 12 and 35 were pulled from the consent calendar for separate discussion. Public comment was taken for Items 15, 16, 40, and 42: 1. Item 15 (Alice Sweetland, Ventura County Aging Services Coalition): Expressed support for the proposed engagement of Health Management Associates to review services for older adults. 2. Item 16 (Tracy Pirie, REBAC): Expressed concern regarding proposed Plan Year 2027 health care rates, noting a disparity between active employee rate increases (5%) and non-Medicare retiree rate increases (19.3%), and questioning why subsidies applied to active employees were not applied equitably to retirees. 3. Item 40 (Martha Montelongo, representing property owners along Peach Hill Wash): Read letters requesting immediate action to address erosion, safety risks, and lack of maintenance in the wash, citing ongoing damage and insufficient previous county efforts. The Chair offered to accept the letters for the record. 4. Item 42 (Spencer Ritchie): Questioned the need for seven new full-time deputy positions given recent expenditures on technology (Flock cameras, Axon drones) and data access concerns.
- Motion: To approve consent agenda items 9 through 11, 13 through 34, and 36 through 44.
- Moved by: Supervisor Parvin.
- Seconded by: Supervisor Lopez.
- Outcome: Passed unanimously.
Agenda Item: Recognition of Ventura County Community Schools
- Supervisor Lopez introduced the item to recognize Ventura County’s community schools, describing them as a "whole child" transformation strategy involving 19 sites across various school districts (Fillmore, Winnetka, Oxnard Union High, Santa Paula Unified, and Ventura County Office of Education’s Gateway Community School). Cynthia Salas, Community Schools Coordinator for the Ventura County Office of Education (VCOE), and Dr. Consuelo Williams presented on the program’s history, noting it is rooted in long-standing traditions and accelerated by the California Community Schools Partnership Program. Salas explained that the work is shifting from grant compliance to long-term infrastructure, emphasizing that community schools are a strategy rather than a single program. She highlighted that districts are at different stages of implementation and that the model leverages community assets to close achievement gaps. Salas noted that VCOE and regional partners were invited to share leading practices at a Monterey County summit. She also announced an upcoming apportionment webinar for September 23rd regarding the next phase of the program under Proposition 88.
- Two public speakers addressed the board. Maria Elena Saldaña Aldana, a retired educator, thanked the board for the recognition and expressed support for the initiative, particularly for students and families in Oxnard Union High School District. Maggie Marshner, a candidate for Ventura County Superintendent of Schools, thanked the board and shared her experience working in community schools in Nevada, emphasizing the importance of surrounding students with support networks to allow educators to focus on instruction.
- Supervisor Lopez read a list of approximately 40 coordinators, educators, and support staff to be recognized with certificates. The board invited the recognized individuals to the front for a group photograph. No formal motion or vote was recorded; the item proceeded as a recognition and presentation.
Agenda Item 51: Proposed Action Plan Related to Farm Worker Housing
- Dave Ward, County Planning Director, presented the results of a five-year collaborative project involving the County, all 10 incorporated cities, and the non-profit House Farm Workers. The project, initiated in 2021 as part of the Housing Element, resulted in three documents: a survey summary report, a research report, and a proposed action plan. Rashida Kadakia, Co-Project Manager, detailed the six housing strategies identified in the action plan: 1. Converting vacant land or underperforming strip malls into mixed-use developments. 2. Partnering with faith-based institutions to develop housing on their land, utilizing Senate Bill 4. 3. Converting underused hotels or motels into residential units. 4. Expanding Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) with standardized plans or an accelerator help desk. 5. Upzoning parcels in high-impact locations in exchange for affordable housing set-asides. 6. Facilitating partnerships between agricultural employers and developers, including the creation of a farmworker housing ombudsman.
- Ward explained that the action plan includes a matrix of 22 actions organized into four themes: reducing pre-development barriers, reducing development barriers, reducing construction/operational costs, and enhancing long-term stability. Timeframes range from short-term (current housing element cycle) to long-term (beyond 2037). The recommendation was to receive and file the report/action plan, adopt a resolution supporting continued collaboration with regional partners, and recommend that the 10 cities and the Ventura County Transportation Commission approve the action plan.
- Supervisor Lopez asked about infrastructure challenges, specifically water and sewer connections for farmworker housing, noting frustrations with homeowners unable to build ADUs due to lack of utility access. Ward responded that the action plan includes actions to seek policy and legislative changes, coordinate with LAFCO and utility providers, and potentially use the ombudsman role to facilitate these connections. Supervisor Parvin asked about the parameters for identifying "faith-based land" under SB 4. Kadakia clarified that eligibility is based on ownership by religious organizations, not necessarily the presence of a building, and noted that SB 4 also includes certain university lands.
- Six public speakers addressed the board:
- Karen Flock (Ventura Housing/House Farm Workers) supported the work, stating it supports essential workers and the agricultural industry.
- Spencer Ritchie (Camarillo resident) raised concerns about the safety of farmworkers, specifically regarding ICE enforcement and harassment, and suggested that housing on faith-based lands might provide a perceived layer of safety.
- Ryan Grau (Ventura County Taxpayers Association) opposed the adoption of the action plan and resolution, arguing that the fiscal impact is undetermined and that the board is attempting to circumvent a previous decision to drop a $400 million affordable housing bond. He requested that the board only receive and file the research and defer adoption until costs are priced.
- Ellen Brokaw (Retired farmworker employer) supported the action plan, emphasizing its importance for the well-being of farmworkers and the survival of the agricultural industry.
- Paige Olson (Ventura Ranch Farmworker Housing Project) spoke in support of the study and action plan, noting it provides strategies for creating affordable housing for farmworkers. She highlighted the input from over 400 farmworkers and encouraged the Board to approve the plan and continue working with partners.
- Kendra Garrow (CEO, People’s Self Help Housing) spoke in support, noting her organization’s projects include set-aside units for farmworkers. She cited the study as guiding their work and mentioned that the SB4 law helped reduce costs and time for a project in Ventura.
- Rosie Castillo (Board Member, House Farm Workers; Study Advisory Council Member) spoke in support, stating the study moves the process from identifying challenges to taking action. She requested the Board approve the plan to address longstanding housing needs.
- Maria Navarro (Policy Advocate, Nonprofit Cause) spoke in support, noting the plan offers solutions to eviction and housing insecurity for agricultural workers. She acknowledged the work of House Farm Workers and staff.
- A staff member clarified that the action plan is a menu of short- and long-term strategies. Approval does not commit the Board, cities, or VCTC to specific strategies or fiscal impacts. Any specific implementation would return to the Board separately with detailed costs and timelines.
- Supervisor Long asked for clarification on language in Exhibit 3 regarding "existing infrastructure," expressing concern that limiting support to existing infrastructure might restrict development. Staff explained that the reference to existing infrastructure relates to mixed-use developments and coordinating infrastructure planning on a larger scale to ensure infrastructure is in place before housing projects. Supervisor Long asked about prioritization of the 22 actions involving the county and how they would return to the Board. Dave Ward (County Planning) stated that near-term actions involve reviewing zoning codes and AG worker regulations to add flexibility. He noted that the next housing element cycle will require strategies to meet state demands, and this document frames those strategies. He indicated that actions would be integrated into agency budget processes and housing element work, potentially as specific items or combined packages. Supervisor Long asked about additional resources or grants to support the plan. Dave Ward stated that staff constantly scans for grants and opportunities to align with the work program and may seek partnerships with cities. Supervisor LaVere expressed support for the strategic framework and the menu of options provided by the document.
- Motion: To approve staff recommended actions.
- Moved by: Supervisor Veer.
- Seconded by: Supervisor Long.
- Outcome: Passed unanimously.
Agenda Item 49: Public Hearing Regarding Approval of Amendments to the Coastal Zoning Ordinance, Non-Coastal Zoning Ordinance, and Subdivision Ordinance (Ventura Energy and Military Land Use Compatibility Roadmap)
- Chair Gorel noted that the most recent draft of the ordinance was posted only on Friday, providing insufficient time for stakeholders and Board members to review. She proposed a motion to continue the item to allow for adequate review. County Counsel (Tiffany N. North) clarified that if the item is continued, the public hearing will not be opened today. Public comments made today under the Brown Act would not be part of the official record for the future public hearing. She recommended allowing public comment before the motion to continue.
- Supervisor LaVere stated that the volume of documents and the significance of the zoning changes made the review process feel rushed. Supervisor Long supported the continuance and asked if it would allow for a community workshop. Supervisor Parvin noted that reviewing the item took eight hours and that while there had been 17 prior meetings, a unified meeting might be beneficial. Dave Ward (County Planning) confirmed that staff had engaged in one-on-one meetings and received comment letters. He agreed to hold a meeting (potentially online) to gather broader feedback before the November 17 hearing.
- Public comments were received regarding the proposal to add permitting requirements for balcony solar systems and other zoning amendments. Speakers included:
- Ian Anderson (Southern California Edison): Spoke regarding the impact of the draft ordinance on battery energy storage systems and grid reliability during extreme heat events. He expressed concern about restrictions on discharging power when the grid needs it.
- Clara Nagy McBain (CEO, Ventura Energy Partners): Spoke in support of the continuance, noting the ordinance as written would restrict the ability of distributed energy resources to discharge power. She mentioned that many stakeholders would be at a conference on November 17 and would submit comments virtually.
- Kendall Lucene (Naval Base Ventura County) & Commander Joseph Blauweichel: Spoke in support of the proposed energy and military land use compatibility roadmap and zoning amendments. They stated the measures protect critical military missions from incompatible development and were developed in partnership with the county.
- Kaylee Underhill (Solar Rights Alliance): Spoke against requiring permits for UL-certified plug-in solar systems. She argued that such systems do not require major building modifications and that permitting requirements would discourage use and undermine affordability.
- Gene Rubin (Resident/Landlord): Spoke in support of allowing plug-in solar without permits, citing the benefits for tenants and the safety certification by UL.
- Maria Martinez (City of Oxnard): Spoke in support of the continuance, stating the city would submit comments for the next meeting.
- Frances Lee (Climate Future California): Spoke in support of SB 868 (Plug-in Solar Act) and against permitting requirements for UL-certified plug-in solar, emphasizing the benefits for renters and low-income residents.
- Carl Ensign (Unidentified Organization): Spoke against permitting requirements for plug-in solar, arguing that UL certification provides sufficient safety standards and that permitting adds unnecessary cost and burden.
- John Scottman (Resident): Spoke against permitting requirements for UL-certified plug-in solar, comparing it to plugging in a toaster.
- Dick Baldwin (Resident): Spoke against permitting requirements for plug-in solar, citing air quality benefits and the lack of need for permits for similar appliances.
- Kent Bullard (Resident): Spoke against permitting requirements for UL-listed plug-in solar, arguing it is a micro-system with direct benefits to users and that permitting is unnecessary red tape.
- Kerry Gordon Yim (Resident): Spoke against permitting requirements for plug-in solar, citing affordability and simplicity.
- Lori Prenn (Resident): Spoke in support of allowing plug-in solar without permits if UL-certified and no major building modifications are required.
- Donald Price (Resident): Spoke against permitting requirements for portable solar, citing the high cost of permits relative to the system cost.
- Tim (Resident): Spoke against permitting requirements for plug-in solar, citing the safety standards of UL approval and the benefits for renters.
- Stephen Dobby (California Solar Electric): Spoke against permitting requirements for UL-certified plug-in solar, arguing it would ruin the affordability opportunity and drive users to unsafe, non-UL listed appliances.
- Christian Corby (California Electric Transportation Coalition): Spoke regarding concerns about discretionary permits for EV charging sites, stating that area restrictions for discretionary permits conflict with state permit streamlining laws. He mentioned SB 1283, which clarifies that streamlined permitting rules apply to EV charger installations, trenching, electrical upgrades, solar canopies, and battery storage.
- Motion: To continue Agenda Item 49 to the Board meeting on November 17 at 10:30 AM.
- Moved by: Chair Gorel.
- Seconded by: Supervisor LaVere.
- Outcome: Passed unanimously.
Agenda Item 46: Public Emergency Ordinance and Operational Area Agreement
- Staff presented a two-part item: (1) an ordinance repealing and reenacting Chapter 3, Division 5 of the Ventura County Ordinance Code regarding public emergencies, and (2) an updated Operational Area Agreement between the county and ten Ventura County cities.
- Ordinance Changes: Key changes include transferring authority from the Emergency Planning Council back to the Board of Supervisors to streamline meetings, clarifying emergency procurement authorities (specifically regarding the CEO and Sheriff’s office roles during emergencies), and strengthening authority for reassigning disaster service workers.
- Operational Area Agreement: The agreement, last updated in 1995, was revised to clarify cost-sharing procedures (referencing lessons from the Thomas Fire), emergency mutual aid compensation, mass care/shelter protocols, data sharing, and alert/warning systems.
- One speaker opposed the ordinance, arguing it consolidates power in law enforcement, removes civic stakeholders, and creates vague "hindrance" clauses that could penalize dissent. The Chair asked about civil liberty protections and checks and balances. Staff explained that emergency proclamations must be ratified by the Board within seven days. The Chair requested consideration of independent advisory bodies for future input. Staff confirmed that public feedback and coordination with community partners (e.g., Red Cross, Naval Base) will continue outside the formal Emergency Planning Council structure.
- Motion: To approve the staff recommendation.
- Outcome: Passed unanimously.
Agenda Item 47: Water Services and Charges (Water Works District 19)
- Staff presented a proposed three-year water rate increase for Water Works District 19 (SOMIS). The proposal includes increases of 12.5% (2026-27), 10% (2027-28), and 10% (2028-29). It also includes pass-through charges for imported water and two temporary surcharges: one for a reservoir design ($400,000, paid off in one year) and one for a Caltrans waterline replacement ($1.35 million over two years). Staff noted that six protests of note were received, five from the same individual.
- One speaker, representing small farmers and community members, supported the rate increase, citing the collaborative process and the need to maintain infrastructure.
- Motion: To approve the proposed scheduled increases.
- Outcome: Passed unanimously.
Agenda Item 48: Temporary Closure of Cañada Largo Road
- Staff presented a resolution to temporarily close a 1.43-mile portion of Cañada Largo Road (Cornell Road) in East Ventura County for up to 18 months. The closure is recommended due to findings of continual serious criminal activity, including trespassing, harassment, and fire risks. The road serves only three property owners, who support the closure. The closure involves locking an existing gate at Milepost 3.26. Emergency personnel and utilities will maintain access. Staff noted that property owners may apply for a future road vacation.
- Five speakers supported the closure, citing safety concerns, criminal activity (including arson and firearm incidents), trespassing, and harassment of livestock and residents. One Supervisor asked about preventing parking outside the closed gate. Staff confirmed the Director of Public Works has authority to impose no-parking zones up to 200 feet if needed.
- Motion: To approve the staff recommended action.
- Outcome: Passed unanimously.
Agenda Item 50: Appointment to Mobile Home Park Rent Review Board
- A recommendation was made to appoint Edith Antico-Carballo to the Ventura County Mobile Home Park Rent Review Board.
- Motion: To approve the appointment.
- Outcome: Passed unanimously.
Agenda Items 54 and 55: Correspondence
- Correspondence items were reviewed.
- Motion: To receive and file the correspondence.
- Outcome: Passed unanimously.
Board and County Comments
- The CEO thanked volunteers and community partners for the Ronald McDonald House Charities Walk for Kids, noting the hospital is the only public hospital in the country with such a facility. The CEO also announced the El Concilio 36th Latino Leadership Awards (October 2) and a "One County One Book" author event (October 10).
- Supervisor Lopez acknowledged staff assistance to residents, attended the Ventura County Civic Alliance event, participated in the SCAG subcommittee on farm worker housing, attended the CSUCI Site Authority Board retreat, supported graffiti abatement in Port Hueneme, attended the FoodShare New Food Bank groundbreaking, participated in California Coastal Cleanup Day, and held a meeting for the 5th District Youth Advisory Council. She also announced a community meeting on short-term rentals.
- Supervisor Parvin attended the Government and Disability Summit, Economic Development Collaborative meeting, Red Cross blood drive (32 units collected), met with fire/public works on El Niño plans, attended the Museum of Ventura County’s Taste of History, VCTC meeting, remembrance ceremony, Boys and Girls Club golf tournament, airport/cultural heritage board interviews, LAFCO meeting, Simi Valley State of the City, and the Siroptimus event. She announced the 13th annual Mammoth Run (October 4).
- Supervisor Long highlighted the Pleasant Valley Historical Society event, a $2.6 million donation to the Fillmore Library, an SCE High Sierra workshop, the FoodShare FedUp fundraiser, and the ACWA Region 5 reception. She noted the passing of Lynn Mulhart, a United Water board member and longtime farmer.
- Supervisor LaVere concurred with comments on the Disability Summit, held a wildfire resilience town hall, attended the FoodShare groundbreaking, joined firefighters at Station 23 for the 9/11 anniversary, and participated in the Ronald McDonald Walk.
- Chair Gorel announced a community briefing on wildfire fuel reduction at Leisure Village (September 24) and the Santa Rosa Valley Fall Festival (October 3).
Agenda Items 56–61 (Closed Session)
- The Board of Supervisors convened in closed session for agenda items 56 through 61. Upon returning to open session, the Chair reported that there was no reportable action from the closed session, with the exception of agenda item 58.
Agenda Item 58
- The Board reported that, by unanimous vote, it authorized the initiation of litigation in two cases. The specific defendants and other particulars of the lawsuits were noted to be disclosed to any person upon inquiry after the lawsuits are filed.
Adjournment
- The Board adjourned in memory of individuals submitted to the clerk. The Chair adjourned the meeting.