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By Anonymous — Tuesday, February 16th, 2016
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Fillmore, on Tuesday, February 23, 2016, in the City Council Chambers at City Hall, at 6:30 p.m. or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, will consider adopting the ordinance summarized below: Ordinance No. 857 Rescinding Ordinance No. 16-856 and Adding Chapter 7.40 and Amending Sections 6.04.1615 and 6.04.1620 of the Fillmore Municipal Code, Imposing an Express Ban on marijuana Cultivation, Marijuana Delivery, and Mobile Marijuana Dispensaries and Finding that such Amendments are not subject to CEQA. Summary: This ordinance will ban marijuana cultivation, marijuana delivery and mobile marijuana dispensaries in the City. The complete text of Ordinance No. 857 is available for review in the City Clerk’s Office in City Hall, 250 Central Avenue, Fillmore, California. Please contact the City Clerk’s Office at dianai@ci.fillmore.ca.us or (805) 524-1500 ext. 211, if you have any questions regarding this ordinance. Any and all interested persons may appear and be heard. Written comments may be submitted to the City Clerk’s Office, 250 Central Avenue, Fillmore, California 93015, for consideration by the City Council at the meeting. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the City of Fillmore does not discriminate against persons with disabilities and is an accessible facility. Any person with a disability who requires a modification or accommodation to be able to participate in this meeting is asked to contact the office of the City Clerk at dianai@ci.fillmore.ca.us or 805-524-1500 ext 211, no fewer than two business days prior to the meeting to allow for reasonable arrangements. The City Council Chambers is equipped with a portable microphone for anyone unable to come to the podium. Assisted listening devices are also available upon request. Dated this 11th day of February, 2016 |
 Former Fillmore Mayor Roger Campbell was just one of many residents calling for the resignations of Council Members Rick Neal and Douglas Tucker at Tuesday night’s council meeting. Accusations of bullying have surfaced since the death of Fillmore Fire Chief Rigo Landeros. Photos courtesy Bob Crum. Enlarge Photo By Jean McLeod — Wednesday, February 10th, 2016
 (l-r) City Manager Rowlands, Council Member Minjares, Mayor Pro Tem Broggie, Mayor McCall, Council Member Tucker and Council Member Neal. Enlarge Photo Tuesday's Fillmore City Council Meeting began with a number of city residents signing up to address the Council during Public Comments. Some came and sat with protest signs held high. One after another spoke on what they considered needs changing in the Council itself. Council Member Douglas Tucker was not in attendance during the Public Comments and arrived at 6:55 p.m., after all the speakers had spoken. First to speak was Steve McKinnon saying "Words matter" emphasizing the need to be responsible for ones actions and commenting on the pressure and bullying toward the late Fillmore Fire Chief Rigo Landeros by members of the Council. McKinnon called for "certain people to resign." Next to address the Council was former Mayor, Councilmember and 24 years on the Fillmore Fire Department, Roger Campbell. "We lost somebody special" he told the Council. "The fire department was a big part of my life" and continued by thanking three Council Members, Manuel Minjares, Mayor Pro Tem Carrie Broggie, Mayor Diane McCall and City Manager David W. Rowlands "You did what you could." Campbell was noting that those three Council Members were not to blame for what most consider a tragedy in the untimely death of Landeros. Next was Kenneth Creason a 38-year resident of Fillmore. "A great injustice has been done" Creason began and reminded everyone how Landeros' dedication to duty assured the community that in case of an emergency "Rigo" was there. "The untimely death of Rigo is a tremendous loss to the community......this city does not need or want bullying of city employees." Creason also called for resignations of council members. Creason made comment on what was said during the January 5, 2016 Fillmore City Council and Successor Agency Special Goal Setting Session Meeting and questioned why it was not being put into the meeting minutes. The question of what was said was later addressed by Minjares and McCall after the Public Comments were over. Fillmore resident Veronica Levy began, "I didn't know Rigo, I wish I had. I've never seen such an outpouring of grief by a community." She then suggested the street Sespe Place be renamed, Rigo Landeros Street in honor of him. Former Council Member Brian Sipes addressed the Council stating he was bullied while serving on the Council and that was what lead him to resign May 15, 2013. Sipes stated he had seen "violent temper tantrum outbursts by Tucker.....I have nothing to gain by being here, all I want is the truth." Jamie Melagon, like many others who addressed the Council, spoke of the pain that has been brought to the community and stated a councilmember needs to resign. Tim Holmgren, a member of the Planning Commission, stated, "An amazing spirit has left us.....The community is divided which will leave us in turmoil." Holmgren spoke of healing and the need to come together and ended with, "To Rigo, I just want to say we miss you." Former Mayor and Councilmember Patti Walker addressed the Council agreeing with Levy on renaming Sespe Place Rigo Landeros Street. She said it would be so appropriate being right in front of the fire station where Rigo loved working. Last to speak during Public Comments was Ernie Vegas who reiterated what those going before him had stated, ending with "We need to remember Rigo's dedication to the city and the passion he had." The comments speaker Creason referred to at the January 5, 2016 Fillmore City Council and Successor Agency Special Goal Setting Session Meeting did not have any audio or video recording and there were only three people in attendance, besides the Council Members and city staff. The City Staff and Council who were in attendance were Council Member Tucker and Rick Neal, Minjares, Broggie, McCall and City Staff Rowlands, Financial Director Gaylynn Brien, Police Chief Dave Wareham, Planning and Community Development Director Kevin McSweeney, Human Resource Director/Deputy City Clerk Diana Impeartrice, Community Services Supervisor Annette Cardona and the last meeting that Chief Landeros had attended. During the meeting there was a short back and forth between Neal and Landeros. Neal questioned Landeros about some Fillmore Fire Foundation funds and asked if they were suppose to go to the City, to which Landeros responded affirmatively. In a January 11th email exchange with Rowlands, when asked why Landeros would seem to admit that “something was amiss with the funding” by his affirmative answer, Rowlands stated, “Rigo was trying to calm the situation and said the [Fillmore Fire] foundation can provide those funds to the city. However, in talking to him later I said no we are not doing that as nothing improper occurred.” At the workshop Minjares then interjected, questioning the timing of Neal's question and if the issue was a goal setting issue. He then suggested the issue be addressed at another time. McCall interjected, stating nonprofits have records and they (the Council) could look into the matter later. There were questions of why the comments were not put in the minutes when it was spoken during an official meeting. During this Tuesday's meeting McCall and Minjares wanted make a clarification to the record on what they remember saying back in January in response to the questioning of Landeros by Neal. Minjares stated he did not feel the question was in the form of a goal, asking Neal if the meeting were the proper place to ask such a question and if it should be part of the goal workshop. McCall remembers stating the question was to a nonprofit and they have records that can be reviewed. During Tuesday’s meeting McCall brought up the sale of the Fire Chief vehicle, which almost brought her to tears and she needed to compose herself before continuing. In a related agenda item Rowlands asked for approval in adopting a City Council Code of Conduct toward City Staff. Minjares commented that the resolution would bring clarity on proper conduct once it is in writing. He asked if city staff comments had been taken into consideration and was told "yes" they were part of creating the document. Discussions went back and forth, most agreeing on the merits of the resolution. Fillmore resident Alex Mollkoy questioned the public clarity of the document stating that most people viewing the meeting on TV or the internet would not have the printed paper in their hands and therefore would not know what the Council was approving. He suggested it be presented to the public, "word for word", what exactly is being proposed or maybe have a presentation on it. Minjares agreed with Mollkoy on presenting it "word for word" and proceeded to read the entire resolution. What the resolution basically states, beyond the previous Code of Conduct, is a Council Member must discuss problems or issues with the City Manager, Mayor, or City Attorney if it is a legal matter, and not directly with other city staff; basically if puts a distance between the Council and city staff. A vote was taken and all council members approved the new resolution. |
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By Bill Herrera — Wednesday, February 10th, 2016
Thursday, February 4th, EVI Emergency Vehicles Incorporated delivered the Fire Department’s new Rescue 91. This vehicle replaces the old rescue that was taken out of service due to mechanical issues about a year ago. Chief Rigo Landeros pushed for this new vehicle to serve not only the citizens of Fillmore but to serve citizens throughout the Santa Clara Valley. Eighty percent of Rescue 91 was purchase with money from the annual Community Development Block Grant Fund and the other twenty percent is coming from the city’s general fund budget. The CDBG grant program serves the Ventura County area. City staff work together with County staff in planning the use of these funds. The unit is a heavy duty commercial grade chassis, with a custom box to carry emergency equipment such as the Jaws of Life, over the side rope rescue gear, EMS equipment, back boards, a stokes, building and vehicle stabilization equipment and miscellaneous tools. It will also carry two firefighters along with all the gear they will need for structure and wild land firefighting. Because of the vehicles load capabilities, there is room to acquire and carry additional equipment. The vehicle should last an estimated twenty years. |
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By Ventura County Sheriff Department — Wednesday, February 10th, 2016
 A mountain lion was sighted in the backyard of a home on the 300 block of Fourth Street, Monday. Ventura County deputies located the animal and game wardens tranquilized and relocated it. Enlarge Photo |
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By Anonymous — Wednesday, February 10th, 2016
 This year’s topic of the 79th Annual Lions Club Speaker Contest was “Liberty and Justice for All”: What does it mean to you? The contest was held on Monday, February 1st at the Lions’ Scout House at 7pm. Participating students were: Esmeralda Arroyo 9th grade, Veronica Garcia 10th grade, Jene Tarango 11th grade, Hannah Bartels 10th grade, and Rachael Pace 12th grade. Judges were Rev. Dr. Harvey Guthrie, Sue Cuttriss and Dr. Cynthia King. The winner was Hannah Bartels, far right, taking home the $100 prize. The runners-up received $25, if the speech was at least 5 minutes long. Enlarge Photo |
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By Santa Paula Police Department — Wednesday, February 10th, 2016
 Santa Paula Police Department A 17 year old documented gang member was arrested in connection with this incident. At approximately 9:30am the suspect was taken into custody at Ventura County Juvenile Court without incident. After being processed the juvenile was transported to Ventura County Juvenile Hall for the charge of 211 PC -Robbery. It should be noted the juvenile was attending court for a case that occurred on January 19, 2016 where the suspect was arrested for carrying a concealed weapon inside a vehicle. Below is the original press release from January 19, 2016. On Saturday, January 16, 2016 at approximately 11:27pm a Hispanic male entered the Circle K gas station location at 765 W. Harvard Blvd., Santa Paula. After walking around for several minutes the suspect covered his face with a bandana, brandished a large revolver to the cashier, and demanded money. After receiving an undisclosed amount of money the suspect fled the location eastbound on Harvard Blvd. The cashier and a customer inside the store were not injured during the incident. The Santa Paula Police Dept. needs the public's assistance in identifying the suspect in the attached photo. If you know who the suspect is do not approach him as he is considered armed and dangerous. Please contact Sgt. Cody Madison at (805) 525-4474 x 220 or at cmadison@spcity.org. You may remain anonymous. |
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By Anonymous — Tuesday, February 9th, 2016
Ventura County Clerk Recorder/Registrar of Voters Mark Lunn announced the offices eligible for election in the June 7, 2016 Presidential Primary Election. Lunn stated, “Every election is an opportunity not only for voters to participate in our great democracy, but also for citizens who are interested in running for office.” Official nomination documents for candidates interested in the offices below may be obtained beginning at 8:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 16, 2016, as February 15, 2016 falls on a holiday, at the Ventura County Elections Division, Hall of Administration, Lower Plaza, 800 South Victoria Avenue, Ventura. Official nomination documents must be filed with the Ventura County Elections Division by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 11, 2016. COUNTY FEDERAL STATE JUDICIAL Additional information regarding candidate qualifications and filing procedures may be obtained from the Ventura County Elections Division by calling 654-2664, or by visiting the Ventura County Elections Division website: www.venturavote.org. |
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By Anonymous — Tuesday, February 9th, 2016
Safety enhancement project is under consideration
The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) will accept written comments from the public until March 4 concerning a proposed safety enhancement project on State Route 126 in Ventura County. Caltrans is formally initiating studies for the project to enhance safety along the highway corridor and reduce the potential for conflicting traffic movements. The project is located on Highway 126 between Hallock Drive in the city of Santa Paula and E Street in the city of Fillmore. Highway 126 provides an east-west connection between US Highway 101 in Ventura County and Interstate 5 in Los Angeles County. The project length is approximately 7 miles. Caltrans is considering options that include a concrete median barrier or a raised median island with visual markers. Possible features include roundabouts, wider road curves, an acceleration/deceleration lane at railroad crossings, retaining walls and improved highway access including driveways at various locations. Caltrans is soliciting written comments from public agencies, private entities and interested individuals regarding any potential social, economic, community, traffic, safety and environmental issues related to this project. Information about the project and the environmental process is available online at http://www.dot.ca.gov/dist07/travel/projects/126/ Caltrans held two public scoping meetings on the proposed project and the environmental process on Jan. 27 in Fillmore and Feb. 3 in Santa Paula. Both meetings were attended by members of the public, elected officials and agency representatives. Caltrans is interested in hearing the point of view of all parties interested in the project, to ensure that all relevant factors are considered. Comments, suggestions and inquiries can be submitted (postmarked by March 4) to Tami Podesta, Branch Chief; California Department of Transportation; Division of Environmental Planning (SR-126 Safety Enhancement Project); 100 South Main St., Suite 100, MS 16A; Los Angeles CA 90012. |
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By Anonymous — Tuesday, February 9th, 2016
After reading last week's Fillmore Gazette about a recent theft of softball equipment at Shiells Park a Local Rancher stepped up to the plate and donated $2000 to be used to replace the stolen softball equipment. Donations like this greatly lift some of the heavy financial burden youth organizations struggle with each year; especially when they get unwanted surprises like the recent theft. The cost to equip and to run the leagues increase each year and much of the increase is passed on to the participants and their families. The generosity of this local rancher will not only help to replace all of the equipment that was stolen but it will allow the organization to purchase additional equipment for the kids. Sports is a sanctuary for many kids who have nothing else to do. Participation is important for the growth and development of young people. They learn teamwork, discipline, self-control, self-respect, and it teaches them how to interact with others and understand that their actions affect others around them. All of these are important in the development of young minds and bodies. The Fillmore Youth Softball program would like to thank the Local Ranch for their very generous donation. |
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By Anonymous — Tuesday, February 9th, 2016
 The American Red Cross urges eligible donors to help ensure a sufficient blood supply for patients by giving blood this February. During the winter months, inclement winter weather and seasonal illnesses can keep regular donors from giving blood. Healthy donors of all blood types are needed to help maintain an adequate blood supply for patients in their own communities as well as areas where donors were unable to give due to severe winter weather. Individuals with types O, AB, B negative and A negative blood are especially needed. Donor Loretta Brandon knows how important it is to have a readily available blood supply. Her late husband required transfusions from generous strangers multiple times for health conditions. She gives blood as often as she can. “Every time I give blood, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for all I have and for the fact that I can share with others,” she said. Make an appointment to help maintain an adequate blood supply for patients in need this winter by downloading the free Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). American Red Cross Woodland Hills Donation Center Monday and Tuesday: 12:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Additional blood donation opportunities: Oxnard Simi Valley Thousand Oaks Ventura How to donate blood Blood donors can now save time at their next donation by using RapidPass to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, prior to arriving at the blood drive. To get started and learn more, visit redcrossblood.org/RapidPass and follow the instructions on the site. About the American Red Cross ### |