Tag: City of Ventura

Bilingual report — The City of Ventura and ForeFront Power Break Ground on Solar Projects

by Community Contributor • November 21, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The City of Ventura, in partnership with ForeFront Power, has started construction on two solar energy projects at Ventura Community Park and the Police/Fire Headquarters. Together, these projects will deliver 900 kilowatt-DC (kW DC) of renewable energy through solar parking canopies at both sites.

Scheduled for completion by summer 2025, the solar installations will produce over 1.5 million kilowatt-hours of electricity annually—enough to power 200 homes. Over their 20-year lifespan, the projects are expected to save the City approximately $2.3 million in electricity costs while supporting its environmental sustainability goals.

“This is the largest sustainability project of its kind for the City of Ventura,” said Public Works Director Charlie Ebeling. “Thanks to the support of our City Council and community, these solar energy projects will provide long-term benefits to Ventura.”

Bilingual report — Share the spirit of giving with Ventura’s Santa to a Senior Program

by Community Contributor • November 7, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The City of Ventura invites residents to spread holiday joy by participating in the annual Santa to a Senior program. This year’s program begins accepting gifts November 14 through December 11, 2024, and seeks to brighten the holiday season for local seniors, aged 60 and above, who are connected to the Ventura Avenue Adult Center’s Senior Nutrition Program.

The Santa to a Senior program specifically supports seniors who receive daily meals through the center’s in-person dining service or homebound meal delivery. For many participants, this program is a cherished highlight of the season, offering a chance to receive thoughtful gifts and feel connected to the community during the holidays.

Bilingual report — Javan Rad named Ventura’s new City Attorney

by Community Contributor • October 28, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Ventura City Council has appointed Javan Rad as its new City Attorney at its meeting on October 8, 2024.

“Javan stood out among a highly qualified pool of candidates, demonstrating exceptional experience, extensive knowledge, and strong leadership qualities,” said Mayor Joe Schroeder. “The City Council is confident that Javan is the right person to guide the City Attorney’s Office into the future.”

Bilingual report — City of Ventura selects new public information officer and communications manager

by Community Contributor • October 15, 2024 • Comments Off

“Jen has been an essential member of our team, consistently demonstrating her leadership in communication and public relations,” said City Manager Bill Ayub. “Her dedication to the City’s mission, combined with her innovative approach to public engagement, makes her the perfect fit for this role. I am confident that under her leadership, our communications will continue to thrive and effectively connect our community.”

Bilingual report — City of Ventura makes official order to gain access to recovery resources

by Community Contributor • October 2, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Responding proactively to the aftermath of the estimated 2,000 gallons of gasoline that leaked from the Sinclair gas station located at 2121 E. Harbor Boulevard, the City of Ventura declared a local state of emergency on Friday, September 27, 2024.

This move allows the City to expedite disaster response and seek emergency funding from the state to aid recovery efforts. The City Council ratified the local state of emergency on October 1, 2024, and it will remain in effect for the next 60 days.

Bilingual report — Ongoing investigations continue following gasoline leak in Pierpont area of Ventura

by Community Contributor • September 25, 2024 • Comments Off

“The gasoline leak was traced to underground facilities at the Sinclair gas station on 2121 E. Harbor Boulevard,” said Fire Marshal Brett Reed. “Preliminary testing by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on September 20, confirmed the substance was gasoline. While the primary leak has been contained, the full extent of the impact to the sewer system and surrounding environment is still under investigation.”

Bilingual report — City of Ventura’s Westpark Skatepark Expansion Project starts construction phase

by Community Contributor • September 16, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The City of Ventura is excited to announce the groundbreaking of the Westpark Skatepark Expansion Project. On Friday, September 13, City officials, local dignitaries, and project partners gathered to celebrate the start of construction. The skatepark at 450 W. Harrison Ave will officially close for construction on Monday, September 23, with completion slated for Spring 2025.

Bilingual report — Community members invited to share feedback on updated Land Use Map

by Community Contributor • September 12, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The City of Ventura invites community members to review and provide input on the updated Land Use Designation Map as part of the General Plan Update, a 25-year blueprint for guiding Ventura’s future growth and development. The survey is available for feedback until Monday, October 21, 2024, and various participation opportunities will be available in addition to the survey.

Bilingual report — Call to Artists: Beautifying Trash Bins Public Art Project

by Community Contributor • August 28, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The City of Ventura invites artists and artist organizations to participate in a new public art initiative to beautify large trash bins near the coast. Selected artists will be uniquely able to beautify four trash bins along the Pier and Promenade area. Online applications are now open through Friday, September 13, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. at www.cityofventura.ca.gov/PublicArt.

Bilingual report — Ventura announces Emily Fox as New Assistant Parks & Recreation Director

by Community Contributor • August 22, 2024 • Comments Off

“Emily’s extensive experience in local government, combined with her deep commitment to our community, will bring transformative leadership to our department,” said Stacey Zarazua, Parks and Recreation Director. “Her talent for guiding complex projects and creating sustainable strategies will be invaluable as we continue to enhance the quality of life in Ventura.”

Bilingual report — City of Ventura launches Ventura Connects to improve customer service and streamline requests

by Community Contributor • August 21, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The City of Ventura is introducing Ventura Connects, a new online portal that makes it easier for residents to report issues like potholes, graffiti, and debris. This platform improves accessibility to request types, visibility of requests and reports, and provides real-time updates.

“Our goal is to offer exceptional customer service and make it simple for residents to report issues and track the progress of their requests. Ventura Connects represents a new way for community members to interact with City services,” said City Manager Bill Ayub. “It also demonstrates our dedication to leveraging technology to enhance city service, ensuring the transparency and accountability our residents expect and deserve.”

Ventura Connects offers a mobile-frie

Bilingual report — Ventura Fire nationally recognized for outstanding stroke and heart attack care

by Community Contributor • August 15, 2024 • Comments Off

“Emergency medical workers are critical in helping people survive strokes and cardiovascular emergencies,” said Heather Ellis, who oversees emergency medical services for the Ventura Fire Department. “Spotting the problem early, keeping the patient stable, and acting quickly within our care system give patients the best chance for effective treatments and a better quality of life.”

Bilingual report — Ventura PD reminds drivers to keep the final days of summer fun, not fatal

by Community Contributor • August 13, 2024 • Comments Off

“We want everyone to enjoy their end of summer travels and festivities, however, it’s imperative to do so responsibly,” said Corporal David Curtis. “Driving under the influence puts your life at risk and endangers everyone else on the road. Our goal is to reduce preventable crashes and save lives.”

Bilingual report — Maruja Clensay Named Assistant Community Development Director for the City of Ventura

by Community Contributor • August 5, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — Following an extensive recruitment process, Maruja Clensay has been appointed as the new Assistant Community Development Director, effective August 12, 2024. Ms. Clensay brings extensive experience from both the public and private sectors.

Maruja Clensay served as Chief of Staff for County of Ventura’s District 1 Supervisor Matt LaVere. In this role, she advised Supervisor LaVere on land use planning, zoning, public works, and entitlement procedures. She also oversaw office operations, personnel, budget, and constituent concerns and served as the Executive Officer for the Ojai Valley Municipal Advisory Council.

Bilingual report — Ventura celebrates National Parks and Recreation Month and Fall Activity Guide

by Community Contributor • July 24, 2024 • Comments Off

The Fall Activity Guide offers a diverse range of classes and programs for all ages, including Beginner Ceramics, a Bus Tour to see Hamilton at the Pantages Theatre, Aikido, and a collection of classes in fitness, art, aquatics, sports, pet wellness, and more.

Bilingual report — City of Ventura appoints new Human Resources Director — Valerie Barroso

by Community Contributor • July 11, 2024 • Comments Off

“Valerie has been an exceptional leader on our Human Resources team for the past six years,” said City Manager Bill Ayub. “Her deep understanding of the City, our staff, and our strategic goals has been invaluable. Valerie’s dedication, expertise, and visionary approach make her the perfect fit for this role. We are thrilled to have her continue serving Ventura and look forward to the positive impact she will undoubtedly bring in her new capacity as Human Resources Director.”

Bilingual report — The City of Ventura adopts a $531 million budget for fiscal year 2024-2025

by Community Contributor • July 9, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Ventura City Council unanimously adopted a balanced $531 million operating and capital budget for Fiscal Year 2024-25 following the City’s annual budget hearing at its meeting on June 25. The budget outlines significant investments to maintain and…

Bilingual report — City of Ventura announces reopening of the Ventura Pier

by Community Contributor • June 26, 2024 • Comments Off

“The reopening of the Ventura Pier marks a celebratory moment for our community. I am thankful for the swift, coordinated efforts of city staff, the County of Ventura, various state agencies, and our community partners like the Ventura Port District—Harbor Patrol, the Coastal Commission, State Parks, and Pier into the Future,” commented Ventura Mayor Joe Schroeder. “Their hard work has ensured the pier’s safety with effective emergency responses, debris clearance, and coastal mitigation efforts and helped preserve an essential piece of our local heritage. We eagerly anticipate welcoming the community back to this cherished landmark.”

Bilingual report — Ventura Police deploy new drone technology to enforce Fourth of July fireworks ban

by Community Contributor • June 25, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — With the Fourth of July approaching, the Ventura Police Department reminds community members that all fireworks are illegal within city limits. This year, the department is implementing new technology to enhance community safety and enforce the fireworks ban.…

Bilingual report — City releases third episode of Ventura Voices Podcast, featuring full details on X Games Ventura

by Community Contributor • June 19, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The City of Ventura released the third episode of its new podcast, Ventura Voices. The latest episode features an in-depth interview with Ventura’s Economic Development Manager, Meredith Hart, and Visit Ventura’s President and CEO, Marlyss Auster. Community members can listen to the episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Music, or watch it on the City’s YouTube channel.

In this episode, Meredith and Marlyss are enthusiastic about returning the X Games to Ventura for a second consecutive year. They discuss the significant economic benefits this event brings to the community and highlight new features of the 2024 event, including an expanded event floor plan, musical performances, new sporting events, drone shows, a free shuttle and parking sites, plus a variety of free community events throughout Ventura.

Bilingual report — Ventura names Mike Shaffer as the new Chief Technology Officer

by Community Contributor • June 11, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — After a competitive, nationwide recruitment, the City of Ventura has selected Mike Shaffer as the new Chief Technology Officer in the Information Technology (IT) Department.

“Mike brings over 15 years of experience in public sector technology and already has a deep understanding of our City’s needs,” shared City Manager Bill Ayub. “With a proven track record of implementing innovative solutions that drive efficiency and improve user experience, I am confident that Mike will lead Ventura’s technological future with excellence and vision.”

Bilingual report — City of Ventura releases second episode of Ventura Voices podcast featuring Police Chief Darin Schindler

by Community Contributor • June 10, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The City of Ventura is thrilled to release the second episode of its new podcast series, Ventura Voices. This episode features an insightful interview with Ventura’s Police Chief, Darin Schindler and is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Music, or watch the podcast video on the City’s YouTube channel.

The episode explores local crime rates and homelessness and shares the positive news that Ventura has seen its lowest crime rate in over three decades.

Chief Schindler also discusses his 34-year career in law enforcement and reflects on his first year as chief, having stepped into the role during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.

Bilingual report — City of Ventura secures major grant for VenturaWaterPure

by Community Contributor • June 4, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The City of Ventura is excited to announce that after a national competitive solicitation process, the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation (USBR) awarded the City an additional $30 million under its WaterSMART large-scale water recyclingprogram to support the VenturaWaterPure project.

City of Ventura names Tim Fiske as the new Chief Building Official

by Community Contributor • May 31, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The City of Ventura is pleased to announce the appointment of Tim Fiske as the new Chief Building Official in the Community Development Department. Mr. Fiske, who joined the City of Ventura in 2019, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his role. Over the years, he has held several key positions within the department, including Building Inspector, Senior Building Inspector, Building Inspection Supervisor, and Building Division Supervisor.

“We welcome Tim Fiske as our new Chief Building Official. Tim’s extensive experience and commitment to innovation have already significantly impacted our department,” said Rachel Dimond, Community Development Director. His vision for a customer service-oriented division aligns perfectly with our goals of promoting safety and economic development in Ventura. We look forward to seeing continued positive changes under his leadership.”

Bilingual report — Community invited to participate in online survey for Surfers Point project

by Community Contributor • May 16, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The City of Ventura invites community members to actively engage in the Surfers Point Managed Retreat Project by participating in an online survey. This survey will be open until Friday, May 31, 2024, and is available in English and Spanish, providing flexible options for individuals to share their insights and preferences.

Through the online survey, residents and stakeholders can play a pivotal role in shaping the amenities and potential themes of public art at the Surfers Point site, as well as other key aspects of the project.

Bilingual report — A collaborative approach to addressing homelessness

by Community Contributor • May 16, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — On March 26, 2024, the Ventura City Council approved a five-year plan to address homelessness. This plan, developed through collaboration with the County of Ventura, City of Oxnard, and City of Thousand Oaks, outlines a strategy tailored to Ventura’s needs. LeSar Development Consultants played a crucial role by providing extensive research to inform the plan.

The Point in Time Count, mandated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), serves as a crucial tool for communities seeking federal grants to address homelessness. Results from the 2024 Ventura County Homeless Point in Time Count, conducted by the Ventura County Continuum of Care, showed a significant change. The number of sheltered persons increased by 14.7% from 2023 to 2024, reaching 927 individuals, while the number of unsheltered persons decreased by 12.4% to 1,431.

Bilingual report — Share the Road and Look Out for One Another During Bicycle Safety Month

by Community Contributor • May 6, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — May is National Bicycle Safety Month, and The City of Ventura is encouraging everyone to get active and safely take bike rides while at the same time reminding drivers to be on the lookout for more people biking and walking.

“Everyone deserves to reach their destination safely,” Public Works Director, Charlie Ebeling said. “Unfortunately, there has been an increase in bicycle fatalities and injuries over the last few years. Bicyclists do not have the same protections as people in a vehicle so if you see a bicyclist — slow down.”

May 23 — City of Ventura invites community members to attend workshops for the Santa Paula Branch Line “Rails with Trails” project

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The Santa Paula Branch Line (SPBL), a historic railway tracing back to 1887, is transforming to include a modern multi-use trail, enriching Ventura County’s transportation landscape and connecting communities in new ways.

Public meetings and workshops will be conducted throughout the project phases to ensure community involvement and gather valuable input. An in-person meeting will be held on Thursday, May 23, from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. at the Jose Flores Community Center, Spanish interpretation will be offered.

“We are excited to witness the Santa Paula Branch Line’s transformation into a multi-use trail. This project clearly signifies our dedication to fostering community connections and strengthening partnerships with the agricultural sector, including the Farm Bureau and CoLAB,” said Ventura Public Works Director Charlie Ebeling. “It also fits well with our newly adopted active transportation plan, which focuses on projects that improve walking, bicycling, and other transportation methods for our community’s benefit.”

Oct. 8 — Bilingual report — Community members invited to Ventura’s State of the City Address presented by Mayor Joe Schroeder

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2024 • Comments Off

“The State of the City Address is a special opportunity to connect with our community, celebrate what we’ve achieved, and share our vision for the future,” said Mayor Joe Schroeder. “I’m proud of how staff, nonprofits, and local agencies have come together with optimism and innovation to tackle new challenges. As we look ahead, I want to recognize the tireless efforts of City staff, whose dedication brings our vision to life. There’s so much to be proud of, and I encourage everyone to join us and see how we’re building a stronger, more resilient Ventura.”

Oct. 9 — Bilingual report — Join the movement: Ventura invites families to walk and roll to school

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2024 • Comments Off

“National Walk and Roll to School Day offers an amazing opportunity for families to practice safe active transportation habits,” said Principal Transportation Engineer Jeff Hereford. “This event not only promotes pedestrian safety and advocates for safer routes for walking and biking to school but also underscores the importance of boosting physical activity among children and prioritizing their safety. It’s a wonderful way to come together and make a positive impact on our children’s well-being.”

Nov. 14 — Bilingual report — City of Ventura to host workshops for collaborative rental housing solutions

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2024 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The City of Ventura is taking proactive steps to solicit feedback from the community on tenant protections and housing. As part of the implementation of the 2021-2029 Housing Element, staff is exploring the potential for programs that support tenants and property owners. This approach ensures that both tenants and property owners can thrive in a balanced, well-protected environment. The City’s Housing Services Division is hosting a series of workshops to garner various perspectives on tenant protections and housing rights in the City of Ventura.

Local business information

by Amigos805.com • March 1, 2015 • Comments Off

> The Office of Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin, District 44, has announced a regional workshop designed to help business owners understand the application process to apply for the “California Competes Tax Credit” from 10 a.m. to noon Friday, March 6 at…

‘From Hell to Healing — The Art of Vietnam Vets’ opening reception to be held at Bell Arts Factory on March 7

by Amigos805.com • March 3, 2014 • Comments Off

VENTURA — The City of Ventura, the Big Read and Bell Arts Factory will present “From Hell to Healing — The Art of Vietnam Vets” featuring the works of Vietnam veterans Jess Gutierrez, Orlando Menchaca, James Graca and Michael Arndt from 5:30…