By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, July 11th, 2025
On 07/05/2025, just before midnight, Sheriff’s Dispatch received a 911 text reporting a stabbing at Jackson Camp, which is about two miles past the Punch Bowls in the unincorporated area of Santa Paula. At approximately 1:30 AM, on July 6, the Aviation Unit flew deputies to an area near the Jackson Campground. Deputies hiked through brush and darkness to the campsite, where they quickly located and detained the suspect, identified as (S) Colin Maki, a 35-year-old resident of Los Angeles. Shortly after, the adult male victim – also from Los Angeles – was located and airlifted by the rescue helicopter to Ventura County Medical Center (VCMC), where he received treatment for a single stab wound to the chest. The Aviation Unit also flew detectives into the campsite to begin their investigation. Preliminary findings revealed Maki had been involved in an altercation with another camper. During the altercation, Maki stabbed the victim with a knife. Maki was arrested for Assault with a Deadly Weapon (Penal Code § 245(a)(1)). He was airlifted back to the staging area, evaluated at Santa Paula Hospital for medical clearance, and subsequently booked at the Pre-Trial Detention Facility. Maki was later released after posting bail. This incident highlights the collaborative efforts of the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office and Ventura County Fire Department in responding to emergencies in challenging and remote locations. The Ventura County Aviation Unit is a partnership between the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office and the Ventura County Fire Department. Together the agencies provide staffing to the unit and respond to a variety of missions to include firefighting, search and rescue, medical calls, and law enforcement. The unit is staffed 365 days a year with highly trained Firefighters and Deputy Sheriffs. The Aviation Unit patrols and responds to all cites and areas of Ventura County regardless of which municipal police or fire department has primary jurisdiction. 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 *** Ventura County Crime Stoppers will pay up to $1,000 reward for information, which leads to the arrest and criminal complaint against the person(s) responsible for this crime. The caller may remain anonymous. The call is not recorded. Call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477). |
![]() On Wednesday, July 2nd, at 8:45pm, multiple units responded to a traffic collision at Ventura Street west of D Street. Upon arrival six people were treated by e4mergency crews, five were transported to a local hospital for treatment. Two people, a 28-year-old female from Oxnard and a 5-year-old male child from Fillmore, unfortunately passed away. Photo credit Angel Esquivel. Enlarge Photo By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, July 11th, 2025
On Wednesday, July 2nd, at approximately 2045 hours, deputies responded to the area of 1305 Ventura Street in reference to an injury traffic collision. Upon arrival, it was determined two vehicles collided head on in the west bound lanes of Ventura Street west of “D” Street. Paramedics and Firefighters arrived a short time later and treated a total of six people. Five parties were transported to local hospitals for medical treatment. One female adult, 28 of Oxnard, was treated on scene, but succumbed to her injuries. One of the occupants, a five-year old Fillmore child, was later pronounced deceased at the hospital. Next of kin notification is pending by the Ventura County Medical Examiner’s Office. Anyone who witnessed the collision or has any information about the incident is encouraged to contact Deputy Bradley Bordon at (805)-388-5146 or bradley.bordon@ventura.org. Prepared by: Deputy Bradley Bordon *** Ventura County Crime Stoppers will pay up to $1,000 reward for information, which leads to the arrest and criminal complaint against the person(s) responsible for this crime. The caller may remain anonymous. The call is not recorded. Call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477). |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, July 11th, 2025
![]() On Tuesday, July 8th, at 3:27 p.m., the Fillmore Police Department, Fillmore City Fire, and AMR Paramedics responded to a two-vehicle accident near the intersection of River Street and A Street. Arriving firefighters discovered two vehicles in the middle of the intersection with moderate damage and a total of three patients; no ambulances transports were made. Photo credit Angel Esquivel. Enlarge Photo |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, July 11th, 2025
![]() This past Friday was the 39th annual Sespe Creek 4th of July Car Show from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., the Fillmore community was able to stroll downtown and see beautiful classic cars. This year’s show brought back the chili cook-off, hosted by Red Engine Brewery. They also had a cornhole tournament hosted by the Fillmore Fire Foundation & the Santa Paula Cornhole Baggers, live music, DJ, vendors and food tents/trucks and of course raffles and an award ceremony. Photo credit Christine Nguyen. Enlarge Photo |
![]() On Tuesday, July 8th, Fillmore High School juniors Sarah Cedillos, Maya Young and Mira Urbano, on behalf of the VC Junior Fair Board, presented the 2025 Ventura County Fair Poster Contest winner’s artwork to Fillmore City Council, as well as announcing the 2025 concert line-up and special admissions for this year’s fair which will start July 30th – August 10th. This year’s poster winner was Kalen Kwak, a 4th grader from Camarillo. Enlarge Photo By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, July 11th, 2025
CITY OF FILLMORE CITY COUNCIL AND SUCCESSOR AGENCY REGULAR MEETING TUESDAY, JULY 8, 2025 All items passed 5-0 1. CALL TO ORDER 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 3. ROLL CALL 4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA 5. PRESENTATIONS 5.A VENTURA COUNTY TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION PRESENTING ON THE COUNTYWIDE SHORT RANGE TRANSIT PLAN 6. PUBLIC COMMENTS 7. CITY COUNCIL REPORTS, RECOMMENDATIONS, COMMENTS, COMMITTEE, COMMISSION, AND BOARD REPORTS 8. CONSENT CALENDAR 8.A CITY OF FILLMORE WARRANT REGISTER-JULY 8, 2025 CITY OF FILLMORE WARRANT REGISTER-JULY 8, 2025.PDF 8.B MARCH 25, 2025 MEETING MINUTES 8.C MAY 13, 2025 - MEETING MINUTES 8.D MAY 27, 2025 MEETING MINUTES 8.E JUNE 10, 2025 - MEETING MINUTES 8.F ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 25-985 GRANTING A NONEXCLUSIVE FRANCHISE TO CRIMSON PIPELINE, LP FOR EXISTING HYDROCARBON PIPELINE 9. NEW BUSINESS 9.A SECOND AMENDMENT TO THE WILLDAN ENGINEERING SERVICES CONTRACT FOR CITY ENGINEERING SERVICES RECOMMENDATION Staff is recommending that the City Council approve the Second Amendment to Willdan Engineering Contract for City Engineer Services and authorize the Acting City Manager to sign the Second Amendment to the contract. 9.B APPROVAL OF THE SEWER SYSTEM MANAGEMENT PLAN AND DIRECTION TO STAFF TO COMPLETE THE ONLINE CERTIFICATION RECOMMENDATION Staff is recommending that the City Council approve the updated Sewer System Management Plan (“SSMP”), a copy of which is attached, and direct the Public Works Director to complete the online certification of the plan as required by the Statewide General Waste Discharge Requirements for Sanitary Sewer Systems, Water Quality Order No. 2022-0103-DWQ (“Order”). 9.C CONSIDERATION OF AUTHORIZATION FOR VEOLIA TO PROCEED WITH REPAIRS TO THE FILLMORE WATER RECYCLING PLANT RECOMMENDATION That the City Council authorize the Acting City Manager to select the appropriate funding source and authorize Veolia to proceed with the necessary repairs to the coarse screen and the recycled water pump. 9.D CONSIDERATION OF A RESOLUTION REAPPOINTING A RESIDENT COMMISSIONER TO THE AREA HOUSING AUTHORITY OF THE COUNTY OF VENTURA BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS RECCOMEDNATION Adoption of Resolution No. 25-4080 Reappointing a Resident Commissioner to the Area Housing Authority of the County of Ventura Board of Commissioners for a term of June 1, 2025 through May 31, 2027. The following alternatives are available to the City: a. Not appoint her, or b. Provide other direction to staff. 9.E CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF UPDATED CITY OF FILLMORE TRAVEL REIMBURSEMENT POLICY RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends that the City Council adopt Resolution No. 25-4081 to: 1. Approve updated City of Fillmore Travel Reimbursement Policy to replace the current Travel Reimbursement Policy; and 2. Authorize the City’s City Manager to make further updates and future amendments to the City of Fillmore Travel Reimbursement Policy, subject to City Attorney approval. 10. CITY MANAGER 11. CLOSED SESSION 11.A JULY 8, 2025 - CLOSED SESSION JULY 8, 2025 - CLOSED SESSION.PDF 12. ADJOURNMENT |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, July 11th, 2025
![]() On Friday, July 4th, at 9:48 p.m., the Fillmore Police Department, Fillmore City Fire, and AMR Paramedics responded to a solo speed racer bike on Goodenough Road at Third Street. Paramedics treated the motorist and transported the patient to a local hospital, condition Unknown. The cause of the crash is under investigation. Photo credit Angel Esquivel. Enlarge Photo |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, July 11th, 2025
![]() On July 4th, the Fillmore Fire Department responded to a fire in a trash can at Sheills Park, near the baseball field. With a quick response, the fire was put out quickly. Photo credit: Angel Esquivel Enlarge Photo |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, July 11th, 2025
![]() On Wednesday, July 2nd, at 7:01 p.m., the Ventura County Fire Department, AMR Paramedics, and the California Highway Patrol responded to a car rollover in the 2500 block of Goodenough Road. Arriving firefighters discovered a single vehicle in a ditch, with one patient outside of the vehicle. Paramedics treated the patient on the scene before transporting the female driver to a local hospital, condition unknown. Photo credit Angel Esquivel. Enlarge Photo |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, July 11th, 2025
![]() On Saturday, July 5th, at 8:07 p.m., a Fillmore Police Unit was involved in a minor injury car accident on Blaine Avenue and the alley at rear of Arrasmith Lane. The vehicles involved were a Fillmore Patrol Unit and a Honda Accord. The police unit sustained minor push bar damage, and the second vehicle sustained front wheel rear passenger side damage. The cause of the crash is under investigation. Photo credit Angel Esquivel. Enlarge Photo |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, July 11th, 2025
![]() On Friday, July 4th, at 21:28 p.m., the Fillmore Fire Department responded to a small brush fire in the 100 block of Clearwood Street. The fire was put out before any firefighters arrived. Photo credit Angel Esquivel. Enlarge Photo |
By Ventura County Sheriff Department — Friday, July 4th, 2025
On Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at approximately 2:14 PM, emergency personnel from the Moorpark Police Department, California Highway Patrol, Ventura County Fire Department, American Medical Response, and Gold Coast Ambulance responded to a traffic collision that occurred on the Union Pacific Rail Line near Montair Drive in the City of Moorpark. Investigators learned a semi-tractor was towing two trailers of lemons southbound from a privately owned ranch when a collision occurred with an eastbound Metrolink Train. Initial investigation indicates that the driver of the semi-tractor, Jose Avila, of Fillmore, was ejected as a result of the collision. Life-saving measures were initiated by nearby workers and responding sheriff’s deputies; however, Mr. Avila was pronounced deceased at the scene. There was a total of 17 people on board the Metrolink Train. One passenger complained of minor injuries. Rail operations on this section of the Union Pacific Rail Line was temporarily halted for several hours for the investigation. Metrolink and Amtrak arranged transportation for their effected passengers. The collision is still under investigation by the Moorpark Police Traffic Bureau. Anyone who might have witnessed the collision is asked to contact Deputy Manley at 805-532-2700. Prepared by: Sergeant Shawn Holzberger |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, July 4th, 2025
![]() On Thursday, July 3rd, 2025, at 9pm, the City of Fillmore will host their 4th of July fireworks show at the Fillmore Middle School athletic field for family and friends to enjoy. Gazette Stock Photo. Enlarge Photo |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, July 4th, 2025
![]() With Fourth of July approaching, firework safety is crucial to prevent accidents, injuries, and fires. On Thursday, June 26th, from 10am to noon, Fillmore Sheriff’s had a great day engaging with the community to educate them on safe practices to ensure a safer celebration for all. Thank you to Fillmore City Fire Department, Ventura County Probation, Sheriff’s Bomb Squad, Sheriff’s K9, Sheriff’s S.W.A.T members, CHP, and local supporters Starbucks Coffee and Roan Mills Bakery. Photo credit Angel Esquivel. Enlarge Photo |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, July 4th, 2025
![]() For more information on motor vehicle theft prevention, visit www.nhtsa.gov/road-safety/vehicle-theft-prevention. For additional resources, visit NICB.org. Enlarge Photo The Fillmore Police Department would like to share some vehicle theft prevention information with our community from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is observing Vehicle Theft Prevention Month this July by calling attention to vehicle thefts as a nationwide issue and urging vehicle owners to take preventive steps to keep their vehicles safe. Vehicle theft is a multi-billion-dollar industry in the United States, disrupting millions of vehicle owners’ lives — stripping them of their security and mobility. In 2024, 850,708 vehicles were stolen — representing a 17% decrease in vehicle theft totals from the previous year. Estimates show that approximately one vehicle is stolen every 37 seconds. In 2024, these states had the most vehicle thefts, as provided by the National Insurance Crime Bureau. 1. California Passenger cars make up most of the stolen vehicles, and summer months have the highest reported occurrences of vehicle thefts in the United States. NHTSA urges vehicle owners to take these steps to keep their vehicles — and any valuables inside them — safe all the time. LOCK IT, HIDE IT, KEEP IT! For more information on motor vehicle theft prevention, visit www.nhtsa.gov/road-safety/vehicle-theft-prevention. For additional resources, visit NICB.org. 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: Deputy Ramiro Rico |
![]() Fillmore Unified School District has selected Dina Ticas as Principal for San Cayetano Elementary and Kayleigh Kelp selected Principal, Rio Vista Elementary for the 2025-2026 upcoming school year. Full bios in article. Enlarge Photo By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, July 4th, 2025
Fillmore Unified has announced new principals for multiple schools throughout the district. See full bios below: Dina Ticas Selected Principal, San Cayetano Elementary School Hello, my name is Dina Ticas. I am the only daughter of an immigrant mother, living out my quintessential American Dream. I began my career in education 25 years ago as a fourth-grade teacher, just before the frenzy of Y2K, but my love for learning and education began in Kindergarten. My mother’s rallying phrase, “You can lose everything, but you can’t lose your education” still rings in my mind. My husband of 28 years, Sam, and I have since added a few more phrases that we’ve passed on to our adult children: Katie, Mason, and Lazaro. Among them: “Live what you believe.” I believe deeply that family is everything and serving families in the public education setting is one of the best ways to invest my time and energy. My career has spanned from teaching grades K-6th, Math, and even Spanish. Most recently, I have served as an Assistant Principal at a school site of more than 800 students and 70 staff. I have a passion for the integration of content areas and for that reason I pursued a Masters of Education in S.T.E.A.M. Education after receiving my Bachelor’s of Education in Liberal Studies. The direct impact that teachers and administrators had on my life inspires me to collaborate, problem solve and support the vital work happening within classrooms. The moments in education that shifted the trajectory of my life as a student, educator, and administrator allowed me to experience the thriving in life that we all want for our students, our community, and ourselves as professionals. I am eager to work alongside the San Cayetano team and the Fillmore Unified School District. *** Degrees and Certifications: I am honored and excited to join the Fillmore Unified School District as the new Principal of Rio Vista Elementary School. Go Roadrunners! I bring with me over a decade of experience in education. My journey began as an elementary teacher, working across a range of grade levels and student needs, which helped shape my understanding of effective instruction and student development. I then spent six years as a teacher and middle school Assistant Principal in Ventura County, followed by two years as an Elementary Assistant Principal in the Santa Cruz area. I’m thrilled to return to this area and serve the incredible students, families, and staff of Fillmore. My leadership is grounded in five core values: integrity, relationships, efficiency, support, and empowerment. These principles guide my everyday work and help cultivate an environment where students and staff feel safe, respected, and valued. I’m especially passionate about restorative justice practices and promoting equity in education for students with special needs. I believe that strong partnerships with families, staff, and the broader community are essential to student success. Outside of work, I enjoy hiking, traveling, creating art, and watching movies with my husband and our energetic puppy, Reggie. I look forward to building strong relationships with our students, families, and staff. I’m truly proud to be part of the Fillmore Unified family and can’t wait for the great work we’ll do together. |
![]() On Saturday, June 7th, 2025, kids out of Perce’s Kenpo Karate Studio in Fillmore placed 1st overall at the American Grappling Federation (AGF) Tournament held at Moorpark High School. Above is the team after claiming victory. Photo credit Michael Torres. Enlarge Photo By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, July 4th, 2025
![]() Pictured are Fillmore’s Ethan Genest, Theo Zendejas and Arsen Arushanyan after getting their medals at the American Grappling Federation (AGF) Tournament held at Moorpark High School. Photo credit Michael Torres. Enlarge Photo By Michael Torres The team trains out of Perce’s Kenpo Karate Studio in Fillmore, CA, under the leadership of Professor Michael Torres, a Gracie Humaitá black belt under Professor Mario Aiello. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a grappling-based martial art that focuses on ground control, leverage, and submissions to neutralize opponents. Fillmore’s young competitors set the tone early with standout performances in both Gi and No-Gi divisions. Many students competed in both brackets and showed excellent versatility, discipline, and composure. Ethan Brock Genest –Boys 8-9 yrs. Gray Belt- 1st Place (Gi), 1st Place (No-Gi) The adult athletes continued the club’s success with strong podium finishes across divisions: “The team came in prepared to give their best, and the students delivered with focus, heart, and integrity,” said Professor Michael Torres. “It’s not just about winning—it’s about growth, discipline, and supporting each other on and off the mat. I’m extremely proud of every member of this team.” |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, July 4th, 2025
![]() Fillmore Fire Department Academy Class 12 has completed all 14 weeks of fire academy. They are ready to begin working 24-hour shifts to serve the Fillmore community and its surrounding areas. Stay tuned for graduation photos. Class 12 graduation will be on Thursday, July 3rd. Photo credit Angel Esquivel. Enlarge Photo |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, July 4th, 2025
![]() Fillmore Fire Department Academy Class 12 has completed all 14 weeks of fire academy. They are ready to begin working 24-hour shifts to serve the Fillmore community and its surrounding areas. Stay tuned for graduation photos. Class 12 graduation will be on Thursday, July 3rd. Photo credit Angel Esquivel. Enlarge Photo |
![]() On Tuesday, June 24th, at 8:16am Fillmore Police and Fire, along with VC Fire Department responded to a reported house fire on Mountain View Street. Upon arrival, authorities found the house fully engulfed in flames and Fillmore resident Brandy Hollis in the backyard. With help from surrounding area police arrested the suspect and escorted her off the property. Crews responded quickly and were about to extinguish the fire, causing major damage to the residence and also damages to neighboring residences. Photo credit Angel Esquivel. Enlarge Photo By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, June 27th, 2025
On Tuesday, June 24, 2025, at about 8:16 A.M., deputies from the Fillmore Station responded to the 600 block of Mountain View Street in Fillmore reference a house fire. Upon arrival, deputies located a house fully engulfed in flames and an adult female, identified as 45-year-old Fillmore resident (S) Brandy Hollis, in the back yard of the property. With the assistance of diligent members of the community, Hollis was escorted off the property by deputies to a safe area where she was evaluated by paramedics. The house fire not only resulted in major damage to the primary residence but also damage to neighboring residences. Thanks to the quick response and firefighting efforts by fire personnel, the neighboring residences were saved from more extensive fire damage. Detectives with the Fillmore Bureau of Investigation arrived shortly thereafter and worked collaboratively with investigators with the Sheriff’s Major Crimes Bureau, Fillmore Fire Department, and the Ventura County Fire Department. As a result of the investigation, detectives obtained evidence linking Hollis to the fire and the fire appeared to be intentional. Hollis was arrested for a violation of Penal Code § 451(b) – [Arson of Inhabited Structure]. She was medically cleared and transported to the Sheriff’s Pre-Trial Detention Facility where she was booked pending court proceedings. Any person with information regarding the arson is encouraged to reach out to detectives and utilize the link or QR code provided below to download and submit any video footage of the incident. 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 *** |
By Gazette Staff Writers — Friday, June 27th, 2025
![]() On Wednesday, June 11th, 2025, Fillmore Unified School District Superintendent Christine Schieferle, Trustees Scott Beylik, Lucy Rangel, Olivia Palacio, Tricia Gradias, and Sean Morris, along with new Fillmore High School Principal Cinda Francis welcomed the start of construction of the new FHS Athletic Complex with a golden shovel groundbreaking ceremony. Enlarge Photo |
