For the 12th consecutive year, the City of Ventura earned budget awards from both the California Society of Municipal Finance Officers (CSMFO) and the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA). CSMFO presented the Operating Budget Meritorious Award for Fiscal Year 2025–2026, and GFOA honored the City with its Distinguished Budget Presentation Award, the organization’s highest recognition.
VENTURA — On Tuesday, February 10, the Ventura City Council adopted an emergency ordinance prohibiting the removal and trimming of trees within identified protected wildlife habitats. This ordinance only applies to trees within the protected areas.
“This project is more than just a bike and pedestrian path. It’s about connectivity, sustainability, and enhancing quality of life,” said Mayor Dr. Jeannette Sanchez-Palacios. “By investing in accessible transportation options, we’re creating dedicated corridors where residents can walk, bike, and roll through our city in ways that support their well-being.”
This opportunity is open to artists residing and working in the State of California. Special consideration will be given to those based in Ventura County and Santa Barbara County.
Based on community surveys and workshops, the project theme has been identified as a combination of Marine Life and Surf & Beach Culture. The artwork should serve as a cultural and ecological narrative, visually connecting visitors to the coastal marine life, beach and surf culture with a color palette of natural coastal tones
“The project includes upgrades to underground water lines along Foothill and Kimball roads and represents the second phase of constructing new transmission pipelines that improve efficiency throughout the City,” said Ventura Water Gina Dorrington. “This project reflects how local water rate dollars are used to maintain critical infrastructure and ensure reliable service for our customers.”
VENTURA — The City of Ventura is seeking artisan vendor applications for the annual 4th of July Street Fair. This annual event runs from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on the 4th of July in Ventura’s Downtown District and attracts more than 15,000 attendees. This year will feature additional events and activities celebrating the nation’s 250th anniversary of independence.
“Kris brings deep operational expertise, a commitment to training and safety, and a steady leadership style,” said City Manager Bill Ayub. “He is well prepared to lead the Ventura Fire Department into its next chapter.”
“We’re excited to bring these long-planned improvements to life,”?said Ventura County Library Director Nancy Schram.?”When the work is complete, E.P. Foster will offer more accessible spaces, enhanced technology, improved energy efficiency, and greater year-round comfort for everyone who uses the library. We look forward to welcoming the community back to a space that truly reflects their needs.”?
VENTURA — The City of Ventura is launching Ventura Housing Connections, a free workshop series that helps tenants, property owners, and property managers build informed, successful rental relationships.
The workshops will deliver clear, practical guidance on rental rights and responsibilities, housing standards, communication strategies, and local housing resources. Designed for both new and experienced renters and property owners, the series supports conflict prevention, stronger communication, and housing stability throughout Ventura.
• Bilingual report — County of Ventura — Ocean Water Quality Monitoring Report: Potential storm water runoff contamination
• Ventura County Emergency Information website update
• Bilingual report — EVACUATION WARNING Issued for Identified Properties in Santa Barbara County Associated with the Lake Fire
• City of San Luis Obispo — Five Ways to Prepare for the Upcoming Storm
• Bilingual report — Major Storm Forecasted for Santa Barbara County (Dec. 23-25)
• Bilingual report — City of Ventura activates Foul Weather Shelter on Dec. 23 due to inclement weather
VENTURA — A Flood Watch is in effect for the City of Ventura from 4:00 p.m. Tuesday, December 23, through 10:00 p.m. Thursday, December 25, as an Atmospheric River storm system is expected to bring prolonged and heavy rainfall to the area. Total rainfall amounts of 5 to 6 inches are possible in Ventura.
A High Surf Advisory is also in effect from 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, December 23, through 11:00 a.m. Friday, December 27, and a Wind Advisory is in effect from 12:00 p.m. Tuesday, December 23, through 3:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 25.
VENTURA — The City of Ventura, in partnership with River Community Church, has activated the Foul Weather Shelter Program on Tuesday, Dec. 23, 2025, in response to forecasted rainfall of at least one-half inch.
As part of this activation, 40 motel rooms have been reserved at a local motel for individuals 62 years and older and/or with those with chronic medical conditions. Rooms are limited and will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. Individuals who are not placed in a motel room will receive a stay-warm kit.
VENTURA — The City of Ventura, in partnership with the City of Santa Paula and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), is excited to announce its fifth Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training class, now offering its second Spanish-language session.
The CERT program is a free, 24-hour training opportunity open to 40 residents from Ventura and Santa Paula. Participants learn how to safely and effectively respond to local emergencies, including reducing fire hazards, providing basic medical care, assisting professional responders, conducting light search and rescue, and more. Graduates receive a certificate of completion, a training manual, and a disaster start-up kit with a helmet, gloves, vest, and safety goggles.
VENTURA — On Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at the Public Hearing for Proposed Water and Wastewater Rates, City Council unanimously approved five-year water and wastewater rate increases needed to maintain reliable water and wastewater service. The new rates will take effect July 1, 2026. Customers can use Ventura Water’s online bill calculator to estimate individual impacts to their water and wastewater bill.
VENTURA — The Ventura Police Department helped make the season brighter for local families on December 10, 2025, during its annual Shop with a Cop event, held at Walmart and hosted in partnership with the Housing Authority of the City of San Buenaventura and the Teddy Bear Cancer Foundation.
This year, 30 children from low-income households and families facing childhood cancer were paired with Ventura Police officers for an unforgettable evening of one-on-one shopping. Each child received $150 to choose gifts for the people they love, turning what can be a challenging time of year into an afternoon of joy and connection.
“Our goal is to strengthen connections within your team and inspire collaboration among new ones,” said Recreation Supervisor Tyler Nelson. “Together, you’ll gain a renewed sense of unity both on and off the field.”
VENTURA — In October, the City of Ventura mailed Proposition 218 notices to all Ventura Water customers and property owners to inform them about proposed adjustments to water and wastewater rates. These adjustments are needed to ensure that Ventura Water is able to upgrade aging infrastructure, meet stricter state and federal requirements, and continue to provide reliable service for years to come.
VENTURA — This week marks the eighth anniversary of the Thomas Fire, one of the most destructive wildfires in California history. Since 2017, the City of Ventura has remained focused on supporting impacted homeowners, strengthening wildfire preparedness, and improving the transparency of the rebuilding process.
As of November 2025, 404 homes have been completely rebuilt and approved for occupancy, 31 permits are under active construction, and another 18 more are under plan review. The City’s Thomas Fire Rebuild Overlay Zone, established in 2018 to support recovery by reducing fees, simplifying development standards, and providing greater design flexibility, will expire on December 31, 2025. Property owners who wish to rebuild under these provisions must submit a complete and substantial building permit application, including all required plans, before the expiration date.
VENTURA — To prepare for upcoming winter weather, the City of Ventura has reactivated its Foul Weather Shelter Plan to provide temporary shelter and “stay warm” packs to Ventura’s most vulnerable residents during extreme weather events, such as severe rain, high winds, or low temperatures. Effective December 1, 2025, the The Foul Weather Shelter Plan will run through March 31, 2026.
To date, more than 4,650 meals have been provided, 280 stay warm packs distributed, and over 435 individuals have received shelter through the program.
“Ventura has an active community of local social service providers and nonprofits that work together to serve the needs of our most vulnerable population,” said Housing Services Manager Leona Rollins. “This program is needed now more than ever to help protect those who face the harshest impacts of winter weather.”
VENTURA — The City of Ventura has opened recruitment for its next Fire Chief, seeking a progressive and collaborative leader to guide one of California’s oldest fire departments.
Ventura’s Fire Department responds to more than 18,000 calls each year from six stations serving a diverse coastal community of over 110,000 residents. Rooted in a legacy dating back to 1875, the department has evolved into a modern, all-hazards agency known for its commitment to preparedness, prevention, and professional service.
VENTURA — The City of Ventura has released a new episode of Ventura Voices titled “All Things Sustainability: Ventura’s Community Programs in Action.” Hosted by Communications Specialist Alejandra Belalcázar, the episode explores how Ventura’s Environmental Sustainability Division has evolved from its early recycling initiatives in the 1990s into a multifaceted team leading communitywide efforts in waste reduction, clean energy, and long-term climate planning.
VENTURA — The City of Ventura invites residents to help spread holiday cheer by participating in the annual Santa to a Senior program. Beginning Thursday, November 13, through Wednesday, December 10, 2025, community members can donate gifts to help brighten the season for local seniors aged 60 and above who are connected to the Ventura Avenue Adult Center’s Senior Nutrition Program.
VENTURA — The City of Ventura is proud to announce the adoption of its Climate Action and Resilience Plan (CARP), approved by the City Council on October 21, 2025. The plan outlines the City’s strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, prepare for climate-related hazards, and strengthen community resilience to the impacts of climate change.
Developed by the City’s Community Development and Public Works Environmental Sustainability staff, the CARP was prepared in conjunction with the General Plan Update to ensure that climate action is integrated into all aspects of City planning and decision-making.
“Ventura is a community that looks out for one another,” said Mayor Dr. Jeannette Sanchez-Palacios. “This action reflects our shared commitment to compassion, service, and ensuring that no one goes without essential water service during a time of hardship.”
VENTURA — The City of Ventura invites residents to attend the Olivas Adobe Volunteer Open House on Sunday, November 9, 2025, from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. at Olivas Adobe Historical Park, located at 4500 Olivas Park Drive. Admission is free.
Volunteers play a vital role in preserving and sharing the history of the Olivas Adobe, Ventura’s only remaining Monterey-style adobe home from the Rancho era. At the open house, attendees can explore a variety of volunteer opportunities and learn how to help bring history to life for visitors of all ages.
With critical upgrades needed to aging systems and new state requirements ahead, Ventura Water is updating its rates to ensure reliable service for years to come.
Approximately every five years, independent financial and rate experts analyze system needs and develop rates that are adequate, fair, and cost justified. This process ensures Ventura Water can maintain reliable service, meet legal requirements, and prepare for future needs.
VENTURA — The City of Ventura is looking for community members to serve on two important advisory bodies that help guide the City’s future: the Design Review Committee and the Water Commission. These groups provide critical input on urban design and development, and water resource planning. These advisory bodies offer residents and professionals the opportunity to get involved, lend their expertise, and make a lasting impact in Ventura.
VENTURA — To expand accessibility and ensure all residents have the opportunity to be prepared for emergencies, the City of Ventura, in collaboration with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the City of Santa Paula, is offering a full Spanish-language Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training beginning this October.
The free, hands-on program is open to 40 participants from Ventura and Santa Paula and will run from October 9 through November 15, 2025. Applicants will be accepted on a rolling basis with the application open through Wednesday, October 8, 2025.
VENTURA — The City of Ventura is now accepting applications for the Ventura Council for Seniors (VCS). This volunteer advisory group advocates for and improves the lives of the city’s older adult residents.
Applicants must:
Be a City of Ventura resident, age 60 or older
Be available to attend monthly meetings, held on the third Tuesday of each month from 4:00 – 5:00 p.m. at the Ventura Avenue Adult Center (550 N. Ventura Avenue)
VENTURA — September is Pedestrian Safety Month in California, and the City of Ventura reminds drivers and walkers alike to take extra care when sharing streets. Whether you’re heading to school, work, or enjoying Ventura’s neighborhoods, walking should always be a safe and easy option.
According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, 7,148 pedestrians were killed in traffic collisions across the United States in 2024. In California alone, pedestrian deaths account for over 24% of all traffic-related fatalities.
VENTURA — The City of Ventura invites the community to travel back to the 1800s during Rancho Days at Olivas Adobe Historical Park on Sunday, September 14, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. This free, family-friendly celebration brings to life the rich history and heritage of Ventura’s early pioneers and indigenous peoples.
Guests can enjoy an afternoon of live music, dancing, storytelling, games, and hands-on activities that capture the spirit of Rancho San Miguel, the historic property that is now Olivas Adobe Historical Park.
ENTURA — The City of Ventura is partnering with the Economic Development Collaborative (EDC) and the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) to launch Ready • Set • Grow, a free three-part workshop series held at Ventura City Hall located at 501 Poli Street in the Community Meeting Room on Thursdays, Oct. 2, 9, and 16, 2025, from 8:30 to 10:00 a.m.
VENTURA — The Ventura Police Department Traffic Unit will conduct a DUI checkpoint at an undisclosed location within the city limits on Friday, August 29, 2025, from 7:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m.
DUI checkpoint locations are chosen based on data showing incidents of impaired driving-related crashes. The primary purpose of checkpoints is not to make arrests, but to promote public safety by deterring residents from driving impaired.
During the checkpoint, officers will look for signs that drivers are under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
VENTURA — The City of Ventura broke ground this week on the long-anticipated Olivas Park Drive Extension and Levee Project, a transformative $51 million capital improvement that will improve traffic circulation, strengthen flood protection, and expand commercial development opportunities in East Ventura. Construction is expected to continue through summer 2027.
“This isn’t just a road or a levee. It is an investment in Ventura’s future,” said Mayor Dr. Jeannette Sanchez-Palacios. “This project reduces flood risks, eases congestion, and improves access to the Auto Center while activating over 90 acres of undeveloped land and creating the conditions for new businesses and innovation to thrive.”
VENTURA — The City of Ventura is currently accepting applications for open seats on the Housing Authority Board and Water Commission, two of the City’s Council Advisory Groups that help shape important local policies and initiatives.
These advisory bodies offer residents and professionals the opportunity to get involved, lend their expertise, and make a lasting impact in Ventura.
“Housing and water are two big topics of discussion in Ventura, and across the county,” said Assistant City Clerk Darrick Ryser. “Serving on a council advisory group is an opportunity to directly impact those local decisions and policies. It requires volunteers who are committed and passionate about the community.”
VENTURA — The City of Ventura kicked off its new fiscal year this month with a balanced operating and capital budget of $637.3 million for Fiscal Year 2025-26 (FY26). Spanning July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026, the adopted budget reflects the City’s ongoing commitment to fiscal responsibility, long-term planning, and delivery of high-quality public services.
The General Fund, the City’s largest operating fund, is balanced at $157.3 million and is primarily supported by local property and sales taxes. It funds daily operations for most departments, including police, fire, parks and recreation, public works, and administrative services.
The City continues to prioritize environmental stewardship through major infrastructure projects, including the Olivas Park Drive Extension and key water and wastewater initiatives such as the State Water Project Interconnection, the Advanced Water Purification Facility, and the Membrane Bioreactor and UV Disinfection system. Public safety also remains a central focus, with ongoing funding for Fire Station 7.
VENTURA — The City of Ventura will temporarily relocate all City Council meetings to Ventura College’s Wright Event Center, located at 57 Day Road, beginning with the first meeting following the summer recess on Tuesday, August 19, 2025.
VENTURA — The City of Ventura is excited to announce the release of its Fall Parks and Recreation Activity Guide! Registration begins Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. and will be available online, over the phone, or in person at City Hall, located at 501 Poli Street in Room 226. Registration information and policies are on page 43. Discover hundreds of upcoming classes, programs, and events scheduled from September through January at www.cityofventura.ca.gov/ActivityGuide
VENTURA — In response to a high volume of recent questions and public interest, the City of Ventura is providing clarification on the current status and next steps for the Main Street Moves street closure and parklet program.
Main Street, between Fir Street and Mission Park, and portions of California Street, between Poli Street and Santa Clara Street, remain closed to vehicles under the California Vehicle Code. The Ventura City Council has not yet made a final decision regarding the future of the closure.
VENTURA — The City of Ventura invites residents and community members to help select the final artistic direction for the new seat wall tile artwork at Surfers Point. Take the quick, three-question survey now through July 27, 2025, at our website
Based on prior community input, the City has narrowed down the top color styles and theme options for the future tile artwork. Now, the public can help guide the final direction before the City launches a Call to Artists in early fall 2025.
“We’re excited to hear from the community about the final color palettes and themes, “ said Emily Fox, Assistant Parks & Recreation Director. “Their input will help guide the artists in creating designs that truly reflect the community’s values and vision for this public artwork.”
