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SANTA PAULA — At a Special Meeting held on April 6, 2026, the Santa Paula City Council convened at the Community Center to consider the feasibility of placing a potential ballot measure before voters related to the regulation of commercial cannabis activities within the City. Ultimately, the City Council voted 4-1 not to place the measure on the upcoming November ballot.
The discussion was aligned with the City Council’s Strategic Goal of Economic Development, as permitting commercial cannabis activities, specifically retail storefronts, would provide opportunities to increase the City’s revenue base, create local jobs, and activate vacant commercial spaces.
The City’s Cannabis Standing Committee, comprised of Mayor Juarez and Councilmember Chavez, recommended that the full Council consider placing the measure on the ballot to gather community input from Santa Paula voters. The Committee has met regularly in recent months to evaluate policy options and community considerations.
James Mason, Community and Economic Development director, presented an overview of cannabis regulations at the state and local levels, along with research on outcomes, revenues, and trends from neighboring cities, including Ojai, Port Hueneme, Ventura, and Oxnard. He also noted that while the City adopted a cannabis tax into its Municipal Code in 2018, there is currently no regulatory framework in place to permit cannabis business operations within Santa Paula, aside from deliveries originating outside the City.
The meeting drew a large community turnout, with many residents providing public comment. The vast majority of speakers opposed both cannabis operations in the City and the proposed ballot measure. There was also a strong presence from the Safeguard Santa Paula organization, which reported that nearly 2,000 residents had signed a petition opposing cannabis in Santa Paula.
Following public comment and Council deliberation, the City Council voted 4-1 to deny moving forward with a ballot measure at this time. Councilmembers who opposed moving forward cited several concerns, including the limited timeframe to prepare a ballot measure, the potential strain on City staff and fiscal resources, the implications of positioning the City as a cannabis market, and the need for greater community education, particularly among youth, regarding cannabis.
The affirmative vote was cast by Councilmember Chavez, who advocated allowing voters to decide the issue at the ballot box, emphasizing that it would provide an opportunity for broader community voices to be heard beyond the Council meeting.
The City remains committed to exploring economic development opportunities that reflect community priorities and values.
Residents can watch the full City Council Special Meeting recording on the City of Santa Paula YouTube page, under the Live tab. Public meeting agendas, minutes, and video recordings are also available on the City’s website at www.spcity.org.
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About the City of Santa Paula
The City of Santa Paula is Ventura County’s Hidden Gem—a vibrant, culturally rich community located in the heart of the county. Incorporated in 1902, Santa Paula spans approximately 5.7 square miles and is home to more than 31,700 residents. The City delivers a full range of services through six departments and proudly preserves its small-town charm while advancing economic growth, public safety, and community engagement. Just 65 miles northwest of Los Angeles, Santa Paula offers convenient access to a wide variety of recreational, cultural, and business opportunities.
From vintage planes at our local airport to scenic railcar adventures and classic car Cruise Nights that draw thousands to our historic downtown, Santa Paula brings planes, trains, and automobiles to life. Learn more at www.spcity.org.
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