Fillmore City Council Approves Homeless Encampment Cleanup Services
By Gazette Staff Writers — Thursday, October 29th, 2026

City of Fillmore City Council and Successor Agency Regular Meeting Tuesday, October 27, 2026, 6:30 PM at City Hall
City Council’s Final Vote:
4. John Garnica motioned, Seconded by Mario Rodriguez to approve the agenda with the recommendations of moving item 5.A. Ventura County Coalition of Labor, Agriculture and Business to a further meeting. Motion passed unanimously.
8. Christina Villaseñor motioned to approve the concent calendar 8.A. Through 8.F. Carrie Broggie seconded that motion. Motion passed unanimously.
9.A. John Garnica _ motioned to approve Determine that the bid submitted by Cedro Construction, Inc. is non-responsive; Approve the award of contract to Canyon Springs Enterprises for the construction of Well No. 10 Equipping and Pump House Project, Project Specification No. 25-03B (“Project”), in the amount of $3,521,079.00 plus a 10% contingency; and Authorize the Public Works Director to approve construction change orders up to the contingency amount of $352,107.00. Carrie Broggie seconded that motion. Motion passed by the majority.
9.B. Mario Rodriguez Motioned to approve a budget allocation in the amount of $370,880.00 from Water Reserve Fund 504 to Water Capital Improvements Fund 453 for Well No. 10 Development and establish appropriations of $370,880.00 in Fund 453; and Approve Willdan Engineering’s task order for construction management services for the Well No. 10 Equipping and Pump House Construction Project, Project Specification No. 25-03B (“Project”), as detailed in the attached Construction Management Task Order. Christina Villaseñor seconded that motion. Motion passed unanimously.
9.C. John Garnica Motioned to Approve a budget allocation in the amount of $227,900.70 from Sewer DIF Fund 406 to Sewer Capital Improvements Fund 463 and establish appropriations of $227,900.70 in Fund 463 for the recycle water portion of the North Fillmore Recycled Water Pipeline Extension and Well Interconnect Pipeline Project (“Project”); Approve a budget allocation in the amount of $25,322.30 from Water DIF Fund 405 to Water Capital Improvements Fund 453 and establish appropriations of $25,322.30 in Fund 453 for the well interconnect portion of the Project; and Approve Willdan Engineering’s task order to design Project Specification No. 26-02, as detailed in the attached proposal. Carrie Broggie seconded that motion. Motion passed unanimously.
9.D. Christina Villaseñor Motioned to approve interlocution of the first reading of Ordinance No. 26-1006: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FILLMORE, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING FILLMORE MUNICIPAL CODE SECTION 2.68.040 TO UPDATE THE POSITIONS THAT ARE EXEMPT FROM COMPETITIVE SERVICE. John Garnica seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously.
9.E. Carrie Broggie Motioned to approve Resolution No. 26-4140 opposing Proposition 43 (ACA 22), a proposed constitutional amendment on the November 3, 2026, statewide ballot, and direct staff to transmit the adopted resolution to the League of California Cities. Alternatively, the City Council may provide other direction or take no action. Mario Rodriguez seconded that motion. Motion passed unanimously.
9.F. Christina Villaseñor motioned, seconded by John Garnica to approve Receive and file an update on the project undertaken with the REAP 2.0 grant funding; Direct staff continue open communication with property owners and developers regarding residential (including high-density) development; and Note that the study determined the testing of the City’s recently adopted zoning and development objective standards provide viable standards for property owners and developers to build higher density housing units. BACKGROUN Motion passed unanimously.
9.G. John Garnica Motioned to approve Resolution No. 26-4142: Requesting initiation of and authorizing submission of an application for a sphere of influence amendment to Ventura LAFCo; Authorizing City staff to initiate proceedings for the reorganization and annexation of 1.39 acre of Caltrans SR126 ROW, 0.95 acres of VCTC railroad property, and the 1.89 acres of City-owned land (APN 054-0-010-335) (collectively the “Property” into the City of Fillmore, and directing staff to file the annexation application with LAFCo; and Determining the annexation of the Property including certain City-owned property is exempt from the Fillmore City Urban Restriction Boundary Ordinance (CURB); and 2. Determine, in accordance with 14 California Code of Regulations §15162, that the initiation of annexation/reorganization proceedings for this portion of the HVPSP does not require additional environmental review. Christina Villasenor seconded that motion. Motion passed unanimously.
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Agenda
1. Call to Order
2. Pledge of Allegiance
3. Roll Call
4. Approval of Agenda
5. Presentations
5.A Ventura County Coalition of Labor, Agriculture and Business
5.B Fillmore Piru Veterans Memorial District
6. Public Comments
7. City Council Reports, Recommendations, Comments, Committee, Commission, and Board Reports
8. Consent Calendar
Recommendation for Item 8A. Through 8F. Is to Approve by Voice Vote.
8.A City of Fillmore Warrant Register-October 27, 2026 - City of Fillmore Warrant Register-October 27, 2026.pdf
8.B Second Reading: Adoption of Zoning Ordinance Text Amendment 26-03, Ordinance 26-1003, Amending Fillmore Municipal Code Section 6.04.9610 (Definitions) and Finding of Exemption from CEQA
SR - Ord. 26-1003 Definitions of Kitchen and Wet Bar_2nd Reading.pdf
8.C Second Reading: Adoption of Zoning Text Amendment 26-04, Ordinance No. 26-1004, Amending the Fillmore Municipal Code to Clarify That Computer Data Centers Are Not an Allowed Use in the City, Including in the City’s Business Park and Industrial Zones, and Finding of Exemption from CEQA
SR - Ord. 26-1004 Data Center Restriction_2nd Reading .pdf
8.D Second Reading and Adoption of Ordinance No. 26-1005 for Community Facilities District No. 7 (Creekside)
SR - CFD 7 Ord 26-1005 2nd Reading.pdf
8.E Amendment to Professional Services Agreement with Big Green Cleaning Company for Homeless Encampment Cleanup Services
SR - Amendment to Professional Services Agreement with Big Green Cleaning Company for Homeless Encampment Cleanup Services
8.F Acceptance of Public Improvements and Approval of a License Agreement with 126 RV LLC for the Recreation Vehicle Storage and Retail Project Located at 245 Telegraph Road (SR 126) Modification No. 3 to DP 18-02, Lot Merger 18-02
SR - 126 RV License Agreement for Private Improvements in Public Right of Way.pdf
9. New Business
9.A Award of Contract for Construction of Well No. 10 Equipping and Pump House Project, Project Specification No. 25-03B
SR - Approval of Design Task Order for North Fillmore Recycle Water Pipeline Extension and Well Interconnect Pipeline
9.B Budget Allocation of Funds and Approval of Task Order for Construction Management Services for Project Specification No. 25-03B for Well No. 10 Equipping and Pump House Construction
SR - Approval of Willdan Task Order for Construction Management of Project Specification 25-03B
9.C Budget Allocation of Funds and Approval of Task Order to Design the North Fillmore Recycled Water Pipeline Extension and Well Interconnect Pipeline, Project Specification No. 26-02
SR- Budget Allocation of Funds and Approval of Task Order to Design the North Fillmore Recycled Water Pipeline Extension and Well Interconnect Pipeline, Project Specification No. 26-02
9.D Introduction of Ordinance No. 26-1006 Amending Fillmore Municipal Code Section 2.68.040 to Update the Positions That Are Exempt from Competitive Service
SR - First Reading Ord 26-1006 to Amend Fillmore Municipal Code Section 2.68.040 to Update the Positions(2206973.1)
9.E Consideration of Resolution 26-4140 Opposing Proposition 43 (ACA 22)
SR - Recommendation to Oppose Proposition 43.pdf
9.F Receive and File an Update on the Regional Early Action Planning (REAP) 2.0 Grant Program, Allocated Through the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG)
SR - Housing Study for RMH2 Zone(2204766.3)
9.G Sphere of Influence Amendment; Initiation of a Reorganization for a 1.89-Acre Parcel (APN 054-0-010-335), a 1.39 Acres Portion of the California Department of Transportation Right-of Way, and a 0.95 Acre of the Ventura County Transportation Commission Railroad Property; and Determination of Exemption from the Curb Ordinance, as Part of Heritage Valley Parks Specific Plan (HVPSP) Implementation
SR - Trestle Way Annexation(2204827.6).pdf
10. City Manager
City Manager Verbal Report
11. Closed Session
11.A Conference with Legal Counsel – Anticipated Litigation - The City Council Will Conduct a Closed Session, Pursuant to Government Code Sections 54956.9(d)(2), Because There Is a Significant Exposure to Litigation in One Case. Closed Session - October 27, 2026.pdf
12. Adjournment
Mayor Albert Mendez Adjourns to the Next Regularly Scheduled Meeting at 6:30 P.M. on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, City Hall, 250 Central Avenue, Fillmore, CA 93015.
 


 
Flashes Blank Dos Pueblos 14-0, Claim First Tri-County League Title
On Friday, October 23, the Fillmore Flashes traveled to Santa Barbara to face Dos Pueblos, securing a decisive 14–0 victory and claiming the Tri-County League Championship. With a 7–2 record, the Flashes now turn their attention to longtime rival Santa Paula as they prepare for Friday’s matchup. Above and below are action photos from the Varsity game against Dos Pueblos. Photo credit Crystal Gurrola.
On Friday, October 23, the Fillmore Flashes traveled to Santa Barbara to face Dos Pueblos, securing a decisive 14–0 victory and claiming the Tri-County League Championship. With a 7–2 record, the Flashes now turn their attention to longtime rival Santa Paula as they prepare for Friday’s matchup. Above and below are action photos from the Varsity game against Dos Pueblos. Photo credit Crystal Gurrola.
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By Gazette Staff Writers — Thursday, October 29th, 2026
On Friday, October 23, the Flashes clinched the Tri-County League title with a victory over Dos Pueblos High School. Above, a Flashes player carries the ball downfield, looking to evade the defense with help from a teammate. This week, the Flashes will face their longtime rival, Santa Paula, at home. JV kickoff is at 4 p.m., followed by Varsity at 7 p.m. Photo credit Crystal Gurrola.
On Friday, October 23, the Flashes clinched the Tri-County League title with a victory over Dos Pueblos High School. Above, a Flashes player carries the ball downfield, looking to evade the defense with help from a teammate. This week, the Flashes will face their longtime rival, Santa Paula, at home. JV kickoff is at 4 p.m., followed by Varsity at 7 p.m. Photo credit Crystal Gurrola.
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By FHS Head Football Coach Charlie Weis, M. Ed.
FILLMORE — The Fillmore Flashes are Tri-County League champions for the first time.
In a tough, physical battle that decided the league crown, Fillmore shut out the Dos Pueblos Chargers 14-0 on Friday, Oct. 23. A defense that has become the identity of this team did it again, posting its second straight shutout against a league opponent.
Defense Slams the Door
The turning point came just before halftime. With Dos Pueblos knocking on the door, the Flashes defense put together a tremendous goal line stand to end the first half, sending the Chargers to the locker room with nothing to show for the drive.
The Flashes secondary then closed things out in the fourth quarter. Juniors James Magana and Jayce Burboa each came up with key interceptions, ending any hope of a Dos Pueblos comeback and sealing the shutout.
Seniors Supply the Points
On offense, Fillmore leaned on its seniors. Running back Micah Harm carried the load on the ground, piling up more than 120 rushing yards and a touchdown.
Quarterback Nate Perez and wide receiver Saul Fraga-Sandoval provided the rest of the scoring, connecting once again for a touchdown through the air. In a game this close, those 14 points were all the Flashes needed.
A Program on the Rise
The Tri-County title is the third league championship for Flashes football in the last five seasons, earned across two different leagues. Fillmore won back-to-back Citrus Coast League titles in 2022 and 2023 before moving up into the Tri-County League.
The win also locks up the Flashes’ fifth playoff appearance in the last six seasons. In addition, it solidifies the 5th season where Fillmore has 7 or more wins in the last 6 years.
Up Next: The Route 126 Rivalry
With the league title secured, Fillmore turns its attention to longtime foe Santa Paula. The Bolts and the Birds meet this Friday, Oct. 30, for the 116th time in one of Southern California’s oldest rivalries.
The Flashes will be looking for their fifth win over the Cardinals in the last six seasons. A victory would also give Fillmore its eighth regular season win before the CIF Southern Section Championship Playoffs begin.
Come join the fun at Flashes Stadium if you’ve got a ticket. JV kicks off at 4 p.m., with Varsity to follow at 7 p.m.
 


 
High Wind Gusts Slam Branch Onto Car
On Thursday, October 22, at approximately 7:44 a.m., the Fillmore Police Department and Fillmore City Fire Department responded to the 500 block of Central Avenue after a tree branch fell onto an unoccupied parked vehicle during strong winds. The high wind gusts reached 20.4 MPH the night before, along with heavy rain. No injuries were reported. Photo credit Angel Esquivel.
On Thursday, October 22, at approximately 7:44 a.m., the Fillmore Police Department and Fillmore City Fire Department responded to the 500 block of Central Avenue after a tree branch fell onto an unoccupied parked vehicle during strong winds. The high wind gusts reached 20.4 MPH the night before, along with heavy rain. No injuries were reported. Photo credit Angel Esquivel.
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By Gazette Staff Writers — Thursday, October 29th, 2026
 


 
2-Vehicle TC at Sespe Avenue & B Street
On Thursday, October 22, at approximately 1:34 p.m., the Fillmore Police Department, Fillmore City Fire Department, and AMR paramedics were dispatched to a reported traffic collision at the intersection of B Street and Sespe Avenue. Upon arrival, firefighters located two vehicles involved in the collision. One vehicle sustained moderate damage to the passenger-side door. No ambulance transports were reported, and the cause of the collision remains under investigation. Photo credit Angel Esquivel.
On Thursday, October 22, at approximately 1:34 p.m., the Fillmore Police Department, Fillmore City Fire Department, and AMR paramedics were dispatched to a reported traffic collision at the intersection of B Street and Sespe Avenue. Upon arrival, firefighters located two vehicles involved in the collision. One vehicle sustained moderate damage to the passenger-side door. No ambulance transports were reported, and the cause of the collision remains under investigation. Photo credit Angel Esquivel.
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By Gazette Staff Writers — Thursday, October 29th, 2026
 
Temporary Traffic Signal Installed
On Monday, October 26, along Goodenough Road north of Fillmore, a temporary traffic signal was installed. According to the City of Fillmore, “The temporary traffic signals are for improvements in the public right-of-way that are the responsibility of Williams Homes to construct as part of their Creekside residential development. The improvements currently underway include sidewalks, landscaped parkways and roadway reconstruction of Goodenough Road.” Photo credit Gazette staff.
On Monday, October 26, along Goodenough Road north of Fillmore, a temporary traffic signal was installed. According to the City of Fillmore, “The temporary traffic signals are for improvements in the public right-of-way that are the responsibility of Williams Homes to construct as part of their Creekside residential development. The improvements currently underway include sidewalks, landscaped parkways and roadway reconstruction of Goodenough Road.” Photo credit Gazette staff.
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By Gazette Staff Writers — Thursday, October 29th, 2026
 
City of Fillmore’s 2026 Street Resurfacing Program Underway
The recent work at A Street and Sespe Avenue included new asphalt and concrete around the city’s sandbag filling station to make it easier for residents to access the station. These improvements are part of the city’s 2026 Street Resurfacing Program. The city plans to provide additional information about the resurfacing program later this week to share in the Gazette’s next edition. Until then follow the City of Fillmore on Facebook regarding the Street Resurfacing Program. Photo credit Gazette staff.
The recent work at A Street and Sespe Avenue included new asphalt and concrete around the city’s sandbag filling station to make it easier for residents to access the station. These improvements are part of the city’s 2026 Street Resurfacing Program. The city plans to provide additional information about the resurfacing program later this week to share in the Gazette’s next edition. Until then follow the City of Fillmore on Facebook regarding the Street Resurfacing Program. Photo credit Gazette staff.
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By Gazette Staff Writers — Thursday, October 29th, 2026
 
Fillmore Celebrates 2026 Homecoming and Blue & White Night
On Thursday, October 15, Fillmore High School celebrated its 2026 Homecoming with a week full of festivities, including float building, a parade, Blue & White Night, and the big football game against the Royal Highlanders. From 2 p.m. to 10 p.m., Central Avenue, from Main Street to First Street, was closed to traffic as the community gathered to celebrate this longtime Fillmore tradition and cheer on the Flashes. Pictured above is the 2026 Homecoming Court, recognized during the Blue & White Night event. The parade also featured the FHS football and cheer teams, FHS Marching Band, and numerous local sports teams and community organizations. Photo credit Crystal Gurrola.
On Thursday, October 15, Fillmore High School celebrated its 2026 Homecoming with a week full of festivities, including float building, a parade, Blue & White Night, and the big football game against the Royal Highlanders. From 2 p.m. to 10 p.m., Central Avenue, from Main Street to First Street, was closed to traffic as the community gathered to celebrate this longtime Fillmore tradition and cheer on the Flashes. Pictured above is the 2026 Homecoming Court, recognized during the Blue & White Night event. The parade also featured the FHS football and cheer teams, FHS Marching Band, and numerous local sports teams and community organizations. Photo credit Crystal Gurrola.
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By Gazette Staff Writers — Thursday, October 22nd, 2026
 
Two Santa Paula Vandals Arrested
By Ventura County Sheriff Department — Thursday, October 22nd, 2026

On 10/15/2026, (S) Richard Apodaca, 55, and Eric Steinberg, 54, were arrested for grand theft, vandalism, and conspiracies to commit those crimes following an investigation by the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office Fillmore Detective Unit.
During late July 2026, patrol deputies from the Sheriff’s Fillmore Station responded to the Mupu Elementary School located in the 4400 block of N. Ojai Road in unincorporated area north of Santa Paula regarding a reported vandalism and grand theft investigation. During the initial investigation, staff identified former custodians (S) Richard Apodaca and (S) Eric Steinberg as the suspected individuals involved. The investigation revealed the theft of school property and vandalism that resulted in damages estimated to be in thousands of dollars.
The Fillmore Detective Unit subsequently assumed the investigation and conducted additional investigative follow-up. As a result of their efforts, detectives obtained a search warrant for Apodaca, Steinberg, and their residence located in the 200 block of Los Cabos Lane, unincorporated Ventura.
On 10/15/2026, at about 4:00 PM, personnel from the Fillmore Detective Unit and West County Special Enforcement Unit served the search warrant at Apodaca’s and Steinberg’s residence which resulted in the seizure of evidence related to the crimes under investigation.
Following the investigation and search warrant service, Apodaca and Steinberg were arrested for violations of Penal Code § 487(a) – [Grand Theft], Penal Code § 594(b)(1) – [Felony Vandalism], and Penal Code § 182(a)(1) – [Conspiracy to Commit a Crime]. They were both transported to the Sheriff’s Pre-Trial Detention Facility where they were booked pending court proceedings.
The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office is committed to responding to public concerns in a manner that builds confidence in our agency and strengthens relationships to empower businesses and residents to be the eyes and ears of the community.
The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank members of the public for their on-going support and due diligence in providing information to assist our agency in solving crimes. We are better at what we do because of our community partnerships. Join us in the fight on crime by following us on “X” @fillmoresheriff, Facebook, Instagram @VCSHERIFF and @FILLMOREPD, and with Nixle by texting your zip code to 888777 to receive local law enforcement and public safety alerts and advisories.
Prepared by: Sergeant Jarrod Foote
News Release Date: 10/16/2026
Approved by: Captain Eduardo Malagon
Booking Photo Release: NO
***
Nature of Incident: Vandals Arrested
Report Number: 26-95155
Location: Mupu Elementary School
4400 block of N. Ojai Road, unincorporated Santa Paula
 
Downed Power Pole Sparks Brush Fire
On Saturday, October 17, at 4:40 p.m., the Ventura County Fire Department and Ventura County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to a reported brush fire on Sycamore Drive near Seventh Street. Upon arrival, firefighters located a 10-by-10-foot vegetation fire burning at a slow rate of spread. Fire crews quickly initiated suppression efforts and had the fire knocked down by 5 p.m. While on scene, fire personnel requested Southern California Edison respond to investigate a large utility pole that was sparking and carrying high-voltage power lines. Cause of the fire was likely the downed pole but is under investigation. Photo credit Angel Esquivel.
On Saturday, October 17, at 4:40 p.m., the Ventura County Fire Department and Ventura County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to a reported brush fire on Sycamore Drive near Seventh Street. Upon arrival, firefighters located a 10-by-10-foot vegetation fire burning at a slow rate of spread. Fire crews quickly initiated suppression efforts and had the fire knocked down by 5 p.m. While on scene, fire personnel requested Southern California Edison respond to investigate a large utility pole that was sparking and carrying high-voltage power lines. Cause of the fire was likely the downed pole but is under investigation. Photo credit Angel Esquivel.
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By Gazette Staff Writers — Thursday, October 22nd, 2026
 
Fillmore High’s Marcus Lechuga Receives NFL Latino Youth Honors
Fillmore High School senior Marcus Lechuga was named the Los Angeles Rams’ male nominee for the fourth annual NFL Latino Youth Honors. He was recently recognized during the Rams’ Monday Night Football game against the Buffalo Bills, where he received a personalized game ball and jersey in recognition of his hard work and dedication.
Fillmore High School senior Marcus Lechuga was named the Los Angeles Rams’ male nominee for the fourth annual NFL Latino Youth Honors. He was recently recognized during the Rams’ Monday Night Football game against the Buffalo Bills, where he received a personalized game ball and jersey in recognition of his hard work and dedication.
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By Gazette Staff Writers — Thursday, October 22nd, 2026

Posted October 14, 2026, courtesy https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org
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The Fillmore Unified School District is immensely proud to announce that our very own Marcus Lechuga (Class of ’26) has been officially named the Los Angeles Rams male nominee for the fourth annual NFL Latino Youth Honors. Marcus was recently celebrated on the field during a Monday Night Football game between the Rams and the Bills, where he received a personalized game ball and jersey in recognition of his hard work and dedication.
Chosen from thousands of candidates across the country, Marcus is one of only 32 male nominees nationwide representing NFL club markets. The rigorous selection process evaluates student-athletes not just on their athleticism and sportsmanship, but on academic achievement (maintaining a strong GPA), leadership, community service, and deep pride in their family’s Latino heritage and culture. Marcus’s exemplary character both in the classroom and on the football field truly embodies the core values of our district and highlights the inspiring leaders growing right here in Fillmore.
Looking ahead, Marcus’s journey with the NFL Latino Youth Honors continues as he vies for a chance to be selected as one of eight division finalists. These finalists will receive college grant awards of up to $25,000 and gain access to exclusive mentorship programs and special events leading up to Super Bowl LXI in Los Angeles. The Fillmore Unified School District congratulates Marcus on this extraordinary milestone and looks forward to supporting him as he continues to shine on the national stage.
 
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