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By Gazette Staff Writers — Saturday, August 23rd, 2025
 On Friday, August 15th, at 9:11 p.m., the Fillmore Fire Department was dispatched to a reported vehicle fire in the area of Los Serenos Drive and Ventura Street. Arriving firefighters quickly extinguished the fire and no injuries were reported. Cause of the fire is under investigation. Photo credit Angel Esquivel. Enlarge Photo |
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By Gazette Staff Writers — Saturday, August 23rd, 2025
The Fillmore Police Department will be conducting a Driver’s License/DUI Checkpoint on August 29th, 2025, at an undisclosed location(s) within the city limits. DUI Checkpoints like this one are placed in locations based on collision statistics and frequency of DUI arrests. Officers will be looking for signs of alcohol and/or drug impairment, with officers checking drivers for proper licensing. The Fillmore Police Department reminds drivers, “DUI Doesn’t Just Mean Booze.” If you take prescription medications, particularly those with a driving or operating machinery warning on the label, you might be impaired enough to get a DUI. Marijuana can also be impairing, especially in combination with alcohol or other drugs, and can result in a DUI. In 2023, more than 4,000 people were killed in alcohol and drug-involved crashes on California roads and many more injured. Locally, over the course of the past three years, DUI collisions have claimed 15 lives of our family and friends. The Fillmore Police Department offers these reminders to ensure a safe and fun night that doesn’t involve a DUI if you plan on drinking or taking medications that can affect your ability to operate a vehicle: • Always use a designated sober driver, ride-share, cab or other public transportation to get home. Getting home safely is cheap, but getting a DUI is not! Drivers caught driving impaired and charged with DUI can expect the impact of a DUI arrest to be upwards of $13,500. This includes fines, fees, DUI classes, license suspension and other expenses not to mention possible jail time. Funding for this checkpoint is provided to the Fillmore Police Department by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Prepared by: Deputy Chennault |
 On Friday, August 22nd, the Fillmore Flashes Football team will kick-off their 2025 season by traveling to Simi Valley to take on the Royal Highlanders. The Flashes have had playoff berths from the last four or five seasons, have set a school record for consecutive postseason appearances—and two league titles in the past three years. Flashes will play their first home game, Friday, August 29th. Photo credit Philip Jimenez. Enlarge Photo By Gazette Staff Writers — Saturday, August 23rd, 2025
By Head Football Coach Charlie Weis M. Ed. The Fillmore Flashes are back under the Friday night lights. After an impressive run that’s turned heads across the county, the Flashes enter the 2025 season with confidence, experience, and a hunger for more. With playoff berths in four of the last five seasons—setting a school record for consecutive postseason appearances—and two league titles in the past three years, this isn’t just a good run. It’s a golden era for Fillmore football. Leading the charge this season is a battle-tested group of returning starters who’ve grown into the heartbeat of the team. Middle linebacker and running back Carlos Cabral brings punishing physicality on both sides of the ball and a steady hand as a team captain. In the trenches, Marcus Lechuga anchors the defensive line with grit and leadership that sets the tone for the Flashes’ hard-nosed identity. On the outside, Mauricio Ocegueda returns as a versatile threat at wide receiver and linebacker—equally dangerous catching the deep ball and stuffing a run. A stalwart offensive line is lead by 3-year returning starter at center, Genaro Villela who provides experience, reliability, and the kind of toughness you want leading the offensive line. Then there’s Thomas Alamillo, the human spark plug. The returning offensive MVP is a dynamic two-way playmaker who can flip a game in a single play. Whether he’s slicing through defenses or making critical stops, Alamillo is must-watch football every time he steps on the field. Adding some additional electricity to the team are returning underclassmen Saul Fraga, Brandon Lane, and Mathew Zavala. Fraga led the team in receiving as a sophomore in 2024 and looks poised for a stellar season at wide receiver and defensive back. Brandon Lane returns for his second season starting on the offensive line making the transition from right to left tackle. Mathew Zavala proved to be a physical weapon in his sophomore season at defensive end and tight end. He returns for the 2025 season to boost the Bolt’s presence in the trenches. But the Flashes won’t ease into the season. They open this Friday, August 22nd, on the road against a formidable Royal Highlanders squad—an early test that will show just how battle-ready this team is. The Highlanders boast size and power, but Fillmore’s experience and leadership could be the difference under pressure. And then... the home opener. Mark your calendars for August 29th, when the Flashes finally return to Fillmore for what promises to be a night to remember. With the stands full and the town behind them, expect fireworks—both literal and on the field. |
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By Gazette Staff Writers — Saturday, August 23rd, 2025
Courtesy https://www.facebook.com/venturacountyfire, Posted August 19, 2025 A Red Flag Warning has been issued in the Ventura County and Los Angeles County area. Temperatures will be in the 95-110 degree range with critically low humidity and the possibility of thunderstorms throughout weekend which creates a high possibly for a fast moving rapidly growing fire. VCFD will be staffing additional resources to prepare for any potential wildfire incident including: 4 hand crews Make sure you are prepared for a wildfire emergency. Visit vcfd.org/ready-set-go/ for important preparation tips. Make sure you are registered for emergency alerts and evacuation notifications at VCAlert.org. If a fire does break out, follow VCEmergency.com for the latest fire and evacuation updates. |
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By Gazette Staff Writers — Saturday, August 16th, 2025
 On Sunday, August 10th, at 3:13 a.m., the Fillmore Police Department, Fillmore Fire Department, and AMR Paramedics responded to a single vehicle accident near the intersection of Ventura and C Streets. Arriving deputies found a silver Kia with moderate damage. The driver took down several Palm trees and traffic signs causing the vehicle to have moderate damage. The driver refused any medical treatment. Cause of the crash is under investigation. Photo credit Angel Esquivel. Enlarge Photo |
 On Thursday, August 7th, 2025, at 7:30am, multiple fire crews responded to a fire near Holser Canyon Road, north of Piru. Later named the Canyon Fire, residents were able to see plumes of smoke fill the air as they watched crews head towards the fire. Above is a photo taken from the Arco Gas Station off Highway 126 in Piru. Photo credit Marcus Camp. Inset, a helicopter making a water drop. They can drop 1,000 gallons (about 3,785 liters) of water at once, some much more, and can be the best way to attack fires that are difficult for ground crews to reach. Photo credit Sebastian Ramirez. Enlarge Photo By Gazette Staff Writers — Saturday, August 16th, 2025
Posted as of 8/13/2025 courtesy https://www.fire.ca.gov/incidents/2025/8/7/canyon-fire 97% Contained Agency Having Jurisdiction: Unified Command: Ventura County Fire Department & Los Angeles County Fire Department Incident Management Team: No team assigned Situation Summary The northeast section continues to have the highest concentration of remaining heat. Infrared mapping taking place today will further help crews locate and extinguish hot spot areas, prevent flare-ups and protect the fire perimeter. Dozer lines on the eastern edge of the fire will be strengthened to minimize the chance of spread. Across the incident, firefighters remain prepared to respond quickly to any flare-ups while suppression repair and backhaul will continue to address impacts from firefighting operations. Federal Assistance |
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By Gazette Staff Writers — Saturday, August 16th, 2025
 Firefighters work the Canyon Fire hotspots near Lake Piru. The Canyon Fire, which has burned more than 5,000 acres on the Los Angeles-Ventura County line and destroyed two homes, was 97% contained Wednesday as crews worked to completely encircle the non-injury blaze. By Wednesday the majority of personnel on the incident will be released because of the progress that’s been made on this fire, Los Angeles County Fire Department Public Information Officer Fred Fielding told City News Service. Fire officials used 960 personnel, 92 engines, 28 crews and 12 dozers to battle the blaze at its height. The resources assigned allowed fire officials to effectively stop the blaze at 5,370 acres. Crews have been making steady progress encircling the fire in an area east of Lake Piru since it broke out on Thursday, 08/07/25. The northeast section of the fire remains the hottest area. Photo credit Sebastian Ramirez. Enlarge Photo |
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By Gazette Staff Writers — Saturday, August 16th, 2025
 Christine Schieferle, FUSD Superintendent August 11, 2025 Dear FUSD Community, Welcome back to the 2025-2026 school year! I hope your summer was filled with quality time with loved ones and that you are ready for a great school year. All staff have been working diligently to prepare for the year ahead, and we are eager to partner with you to make this school year one of growth, achievement, and opportunity for all students. This school year, we will remain committed to student academic success and creating safe and respectful schools where every student can thrive. We acknowledge that some of our families and students are experiencing anxiety and fear due to recent immigration activities. Please be assured that we are prepared to support our students and their families, providing them with the available resources. Please don’t hesitate to reach out; we are here for you. We also recognize the critical role of mental health and are dedicated to offering expanded resources to support emotional well-being and long-term resilience. Additionally, we will continue to invest in facility improvements across our school district. Below are some highlights: - Student Academic Success - Full-time bilingual community liaisons at all school sites - Free online academic tutoring available 24/7 - Reading Intervention teachers at all elementary schools - Restorative Practices Teacher at Fillmore Middle School - Block schedules with built-in academic support at Fillmore Middle and Fillmore High schools - Differentiated academic support within the school day at all elementary schools - Expanded Independent Study Program with customized schedules and curriculum - No-cost after-school program until 6:00 p.m., Monday – Friday - No-cost enrichment programs during school breaks - No-cost after-school sports program at Fillmore Middle School - Preschool programs for children ages 2.9 months to 4 years - College/university field trips to promote a college-bound culture - Career Technical Education (CTE) Pathways at FHS - STEM Electives, including robotics, medical detectives, and video production at FMS - Community College Dual-Enrollment classes during the school day and after school at FHS - UCSB Early Academic Outreach Program at FHS and FMS - CSUCI Guaranteed Admission at FHS Mental Health Support - Wellness Centers at FMS, FHS, SHS, Piru, San Cayetano, and Mountain Vista Schools - Counselors at all sites; full-time social workers at Fillmore Middle and Fillmore High Schools - New Telehealth options for students 2024-2025 Facilities Improvements -Rio Vista School: New 200-meter all-weather track - Fillmore High School (FHS): New varsity baseball field, new restroom building, and flex space at the School Farm - Piru School: New HVAC in the cafeteria, new shade structures, and restroom building, new school sign - San Cayetano School: New HVAC in cafeteria, new furniture in every classroom, office redesign and upgrade, and new shade - Mountain Vista: new shade structure and upgrades to landscaping 2025-2026 Facility Improvements - Fillmore High School: career center relocation and renovation, two new shade structures, library patio renovation - Fillmore Middle School: New student and teacher furniture in every classroom, new office furniture and drywall, new - Mountain Vista School: new outside patio tables and umbrellas - All Schools and Facilities: upgrade and expand security cameras for school safety Future Projects - Fillmore Middle School (FMS): New paint and HVAC in the gym, new outdoor shade structures. - Fillmore High School (FHS): New athletic complex (projected completion date December 2026), locker room remodel to - Transportation Department: Charging stations for new electric buses Great things are happening in our school district! It is important that we continue to work together, build relationships with each other, and maintain our collective focus to do what is best for our students. They are counting on us! Please join and support our School Site Councils, English Learner Advisory Committees, Parent Booster Clubs, and volunteer opportunities. Connecting with these organizations and school staff is vital to your child’s success. I look forward to seeing our students back to school on Wednesday, August 13, and am confident we can make this school year a safe and positive experience for everyone. Sincerely, Christine Schieferle, Superintendent |
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By Gazette Staff Writers — Saturday, August 16th, 2025
 On Wednesday, July 30th the Ventura County Fair gates opened with a variety of attractions, including carnival rides, food booths, exhibits, agricultural shows, live entertainment and so much more. This year’s theme was “Waves of Fun”. The fair ended on August 10th. The concert series lineup included performances by Tone Loc, Ying Yang Twins, Fat Joe, Pepa, Diplo, Dirty Heads, Lee Brice, Flo Rida, and Scotty McCreery. There will also be a professional rodeo and other events throughout the fair. Photo credit Angel Esquivel. Enlarge Photo  From July 30th – August 10th was the annual Ventura County Fair. Pictured are some of the Fillmore FFA winners from this year’s Livestock Show. All photos and info courtesy https://www.instagram.com/fillmore.ffa/. Pictured right is Another BACK-to-BACK! Way to go Annalise Barragan! FFA Advanced Steer Showman 2025! Enlarge Photo  She does it again! Olivia Nava is the FFA Advanced Swine Showman Champion! Way to go Olivia, your time and hard work has paid off! Enlarge Photo  Congratulations to Olivia Nava and Preston Spiker for winning Supreme and Reserve Market Champions. Enlarge Photo  Congratulations Annalise! Annalise Barragan, pictured right, won FFA Market Steer Champion, and a well-deserved buckle. As an FHS alumni this is her last year showing. Enlarge Photo  Small Livestock Sweep! Congratulations to Alejandra Robles our Grand Champion Market Rabbit Pen, FFA Market Rabbit Champion and Novice Showman Champion. And to Lexie Gonzalez our FFA Reserve Champion Market Rabbit Pen. Aldo, Anne Cabrales our Senior and Overall Champion Rabbit Showman! Enlarge Photo  Way to go Kristina! Kristina Budia won Reserve FFA Market Goat! We are so proud of all our lamb and goat showman they did great in the market classes! Enlarge Photo  Congratulations Elena!! Elena Magana won BIG with her pygmy goat at the Fair, taking both Grand Champion Pygmy Goat and Champion Showman. She rounded off her big wins with a fiesta! in the costume contest! Enlarge Photo |
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By Gazette Staff Writers — Saturday, August 16th, 2025
All Items Passed 5 – 0. Item 9e- council approved proposed staff recommendations with an addition to add medical and health resources and make specific requirements to the workshop. CITY OF FILLMORE CITY COUNCIL AND SUCCESSOR AGENCY REGULAR MEETING TUESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2025 at 6:30 PM IN CITY HALL AGENDA 1. CALL TO ORDER 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 3. ROLL CALL 4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA 5. PRESENTATIONS 5.A UPDATE FROM UNITED WATER CONSERVATION DISTRICT 5.B CITY OF FILLMORE GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEM (GIS) 6. PUBLIC COMMENTS 7. CITY COUNCIL REPORTS, RECOMMENDATIONS, AND COMMENTS, COMMITTEE, COMMISSION, AND BOARD REPORTS 8. CONSENT CALENDAR 8.A CITY OF FILLMORE WARRANT REGISTER-AUGUST 12, 2025 CITY OF FILLMORE WARRANT REGISTER-AUGUST 12, 2025.PDF 8.B JANUARY 28, 2025 - CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES JANUARY 28, 2025 MEETING MINUTES.PDF 8.C FEBRUARY 11, 2025 - CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES FEBRUARY 11, 2025 MEETING MINUTES.PDF 8.D FEBRUARY 25, 2025 - CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES FEBRUARY 25, 2025 MEETING MINUTES.PDF 8.E MARCH 11, 2025 - CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES MARCH 11, 2025 MEETING MINUTES.PDF 8.F APRIL 22, 2025 - CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES APRIL 22, 2025 MEETING MINUTES.PDF 8.G JULY 8, 2025 - CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES JULY 8, 2025 MEETING MINUTES.PDF 9. NEW BUSINESS 9.A CONTRACT WITH 4 LEAF INC., TO CONDUCT CODE ENFORCEMENT SERVICES SR 2025 4LEAF CONTRACT.PDF 9.B CONTRACT WITH BUREAU VERITAS FOR THE PREPARATION AND ADOPTION OF THE 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE SR BUREAU VERITAS BUILDING CODE CONTRACT AGREEMENT.PDF 9.C CONSIDERATION OF AN ORDINANCE TO REVISE MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTER 2.28 TO CLARIFY THE NAME AND FUNCTION OF THE CULTURAL, SR UPDATE FMC CH.28 RE THE CAR COMMISSION.PDF 9.D SEWER EASEMENT AND AGREEMENT WITH THE VENTURA COUNTY TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION FOR RAILROAD CROSSING SR TRACT 6053 VCTC SEWER EASEMENT AGREEMENT FOR RAILROAD SEWER CROSSING.PDF 9.E PROVIDE DIRECTION TO STAFF ON HOSTING AN IMMIGRATION RESOURCES WORKSHOP SR IMMIGRATION RESOURCES WORKSHOP.PDF 10. CITY MANAGER CITY MANAGER VERBAL REPORT 11. CLOSED SESSION 11.A AUGUST 12, 2025 - CLOSED SESSION AUGUST 12, 2025 - CLOSED SESSION.PDF 12. ADJOURNMENT MAYOR CHRISTINA VILLASEÑOR ADJOURNS TO THE NEXT REGULARLY SCHEDULED MEETING AT 6:30 P.M. ON TUESDAY, AUGUST 26, 2025, CITY |