The Fillmore Fire Department in conjunction with the Fillmore Fire Foundation is kicking off the annual Holiday Toy Drive last week. Collection drop-off boxes for new toys are available at the Fillmore Police and City Fire Station, City Hall, local banks and Diamond Realty. As part of the Toy Drive, on Sunday, December 7, the Fillmore Fire Foundation will be holding the annual BBQ Chicken Dinner Fundraiser to collect donations that are used to purchase hundreds of toys for children in the Fillmore/Piru area. A complete chicken dinner meal is prepared for anyone wanting to donate fifteen dollars ($15) or a brand-new toy valued at fifteen dollars or more. This year, the dinner will return to the Fillmore Fire Station located at 711 Landeros Lane. Dinner will be served from 5:00 -7:00 PM and you may drive through for takeout or choose to dine indoors at the fire station. The hundreds of toys purchased from this event will be combined with those that are donated by the Community and then distributed on Saturday, December 13, in a huge Community Holiday Giveaway event. To order your tickets for the December 7th BBQ Chicken Dinner call 805-524-1500 ext 226. or 805-815-0328 or stop by the Fillmore City Fire Station, 711 Landeros Lane. New Toys may also be dropped off at the Fire Station.

Ventura County Sheriff's Office

On 11/10/2025 at approximately 0930 hours, Ventura County Sheriff’s deputies from the Camarillo Police Station responded to the 700 block of Paseo Camarillo, in reference to a physical fight in progress.
Upon arrival, deputies contacted the victim, who had injuries as a result of the fight. During the initial investigation, deputies learned a gun may have been used to assault and batter the victim. Given the violent nature of the crime, detectives from the Camarillo Special Enforcement Unit (SEU) responded to assist with the investigation.
Through witness statements and other evidence collected at the scene, detectives determined that during the fight, the victim, who was outnumbered, was struck in the head by an unknown suspect with a pistol before being able to flee.
During the subsequent investigation, detectives authored several search warrants and were able to identify three suspects involved in the crime. The suspects were identified as (S) Justin Preciado, (S) Patrick Tuturice and Ian Franco. Detectives developed probable cause to arrest Tuturice for a violation of California Penal Code Sections 245(a)(1) – [Assault with a Deadly Weapon], 245(a)(4) – [Assault with a Deadly Weapon likely to cause Great Bodily Injury], and 182(a)(1) – [ Conspiracy to Commit a Crime]. Detectives also developed probable cause to arrest Preciado and Franco for California Penal Code Sections 245(a)(4) and 182(a)(1).
Detectives also obtained search warrants for the residences of Preciado, Tuturice, and Franco.
On 11/20/2025, detectives from various investigative units throughout the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office executed the search warrants at multiple locations to include Preciado, Tuturice, and Franco’s residences. Preciado was arrested and taken into custody in the 400 block of Gonzalez Road in the City of Oxnard. Tuturice was arrested and taken into custody in the 200 block of Glenn Drive in the City of Camarillo. Franco was arrested and taken into custody in the 3000 block of Mission Oaks Boulevard in the City of Camarillo.
The arrests and search warrants yielded evidence linking Preciado, Tuturice, and Franco to the crimes that occurred on 11/10/2025, and all three were later transported and booked into the Ventura County Pre-Trial Detention Facility for the earlier-noted crimes.
The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank members of the public for their ongoing support and diligence in providing information that assists our agency in solving crimes. We are better at what we do because of our community partnerships.
Join us in the fight against crime by following us on “X” @VENTURASHERIFF, Facebook, Instagram @ VCSHERIFF, and with Nixle by texting your zip code to 888777 to receive local law enforcement and public safety alerts and advisories.
Prepared by: Senior Deputy Frank W. Corona
News Release Date: 11/24/2025
Approved by: Captain Jason Hendren
Booking Photo Release: NO
***
Nature of Incident: Arrests made for Conspiracy to Commit Assault with a Deadly Weapon
Report Number: 25-144784
Location: 700 Block Paseo Camarillo, City of Camarillo
Date & Time: 11/10/2025 @ 0930 Hours
Unit(s) Responsible: Camarillo Special Enforcement Unit, Camarillo Directed Enforcement Unit, West County Special Enforcement Unit, Camarillo Police Investigations, Fillmore Police Detective Unit, Central County Patrol Services
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent, City of Residence, Age:
(S) Justin Preciado, Oxnard, 21
(S) Patrick Tuturice, Fillmore, 20
(S) Ian Franco, Camarillo, 21
(V) Male Victim, Camarillo, 24
***
Ventura County Crime Stoppers will pay up to $1,000 reward for information that 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).

Pictured above is Fillmore Rotary President Scott Beylick with Martha Richardson. Rotarian Kyle Wilson presented Martha Richardson with a Paul Harris Award at their last meeting. It was given for the many ways she serves the organization. When the Paul Harris Award is given, $1,000 is donated to the Rotary International Foundation.

A beautiful rainbow appeared last Friday, arching over Goodenough Road, north of Fillmore. The storms before it brought much needed rain to the Santa Clara Valley. Photo credit Gazette staff.

Mario Rodriguez

FILLMORE, Calif. – Following the resignation of District 1 Councilmember Luis Rodriguez, the Fillmore City Council has appointed Mario Rodriguez to fill the District 1 vacancy. The appointment took place during the November 12, 2025, City Council meeting. Rodriguez will be officially sworn in at the December 9 City Council meeting and will serve for the remainder of the term through November 2026, when the seat will be open for election.
“I want to make a difference in my community. I want to represent everyone equally and give a voice to those who don’t think they have one,” said Rodriguez during his appointment interview.
Rodriguez currently serves as the Program Manager for First 5 Ventura County, where he leads community outreach and engagement programs to ensure underserved communities have access to vital resources. He is also a board member of One Step a la Vez and an active member of the Fillmore Lions Club.
Rodriguez earned his Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership and his Master of Business Administration in Human Resources from National University.
***
Known as the “Last Best Small Town,” the City of Fillmore is located in the heart of Ventura County’s Santa Clara River Valley. The City is committed to supporting community engagement, economic growth, and local leadership that reflects the values and spirit of its residents.

For more details: https://legistarweb-production.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/attachment/pdf/3....

Approval of the Agenda: Mendez motion, Garnica second, passed 4-0
Consent Calendar Items 8A - 8C: Mendez motion, Garnica second, passed 4-0
Item 9A City Council appointment: Roll call nomination
-Broggie: Tinker and Rodriguez
-Mendez: Tinker and Rodriguez
-Villasenor: Rodriguez and Gonzalez
-Garnica: Rodriguez and Gonzalez
4 votes for Rodriguez, 2 for Tinker, 2 for Gonzalez; Rodriguez advances to second round
Roll call nomination, 2nd vote
-Broggie: Tinker
-Mendez: Gonzalez
-Villasenor: Gonzalez
-Garnica: Tinker
Vote tied 2-2
Broggie motioned to appoint Zachary Tinker, motion failed due to lack of a second.
Garnica motioned to appoint Mario Rodriguez, Mendez second. Motion passed 3-1 with Broggie voting against.
Item 9B Adoption of 2025 Building Code: Mendez motion, Garnica second, pass 4-0
Item 9C Adoption of 2025 Fire Code: Garnica motion, Broggie second, pass 4-0
Item 9D Acceptance of Offsite Development Improvements and Bond Exoneration for Mountain View Apartments project: Mendez motion, Broggie second, pass 4-0
Item 9E Approval of Task order to Design Annual Pavement Improvements: Mendez motion, Garnica second, pass 4-0
Item 9F Approval of Appropriation and First Amendment to Construction contract with General Pump Co. For urgent repairs to Well #8: Garnica motion, Broggie second, pass 4-0
Item 9G Intro report on DIF income and expenses per Gov Code sections 66001 and 66006: Garnica motion, Mendez second, pass 4-0
***
CITY OF FILLMORE, CITY COUNCIL AND SUCCESSOR AGENCY REGULAR MEETING WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2025 at 6:30 PM CITY HALL
AGENDA
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3. ROLL CALL
4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
5. PRESENTATIONS
5.A RECOGNITION OF THE 2025 TRUNK OR TREAT AWARD WINNER
5.B HONORING VICTOR CASAS FOR HIS RETIREMENT AND DEDICATED SERVICE TO THE CITY
6. PUBLIC COMMENTS
7. CITY COUNCIL REPORTS, RECOMMENDATIONS, COMMENTS, COMMITTEE, COMMISSION, AND BOARD REPORTS
8. CONSENT CALENDAR
RECOMMENDATION FOR ITEM 8A. THROUGH 8C. IS TO APPROVE BY VOICE VOTE.
8.A CITY OF FILLMORE WARRANT REGISTER-NOVEMBER 12, 2025 CITY OF FILLMORE WARRANT REGISTER-NOVEMBER 12, 2025.PDF
8.B AUGUST 12, 2025 - REGULAR CITY COUNCIL AMENDED MEETING MINUTES AUG 12, 2025, REG CITY COUNCIL AMENDED MTG MINUTES.PDF
8.C CONTRACT WITH TURNING POINT FOUNDATION FOR ENCAMPMENT RESOLUTION FUND GRANT CASE MANAGEMENT SERVICES
SR 2025 TURNING POINT FOUNDATION CONTRACT.PDF
9. NEW BUSINESS
9.A CITY COUNCIL INTERVIEW AND SELECTION OF A NEW COUNCIL MEMBER TO BE APPOINTED TO FILL THE DISTRICT ONE VACANCY ON THE CITY COUNCIL
FINAL SR APPOINTMENT INTERVIEW DISTRICT ONE VACANY.PDF
9.B ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 25-989 TO ADOPT THE 2025 UNIFORM
BUILDING CODES WITH AMENDMENTS AND SETTING FORTH FINDINGS FOR LOCAL CONDITIONS AND FINDING OF EXEMPTION FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA)
SR ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE 25-989 2025 BUILDING CODES UPDATE.PDF
9.C ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 25-990 TO ADOPT THE 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODES WITH AMENDMENTS AND SETTING FORTH FINDINGS FOR LOCAL CONDITIONS AND FINDING OF EXEMPTION FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA)
SR ADOPTING 2025 FIRE CODE.PDF
9.D ACCEPTANCE OF OFFSITE DEVELOPMENT IMPROVEMENTS AND BOND EXONERATION FOR MOUNTAIN VIEW APARTMENTS PROJECT
SR - BOND EXONERATION DP18-03 MANY MANSIONS. FINAL.PDF
9.E APPROVAL OF TASK ORDER TO DESIGN THE ANNUAL PAVEMENT IMPROVEMENTS FOR PROJECT SPECIFICATION NO. 24-03
SR- APPROVAL OF DESIGN PROPOSAL FOR ANNUAL STREET IMPROVEMENTS. FINAL.PDF
9.F APPROVAL OF APPROPRIATION AND CONSIDERATION OF FIRST AMENDMENT TO CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT WITH GENERAL PUMP COMPANY FOR URGENT REPAIRS TO WELL NO. 8
SR - APPROVAL OF FIRST AMENDMENT TO GENERAL PUMP COMPANY CONTRACT FOR URGENT REPAIRS AT WELL NO. 8. FINAL.PDF
9.G INTRODUCTORY REPORT ON DEVELOPMENT IMPACT FEE INCOME AND EXPENSES PER GOVERNMENT CODE SECTIONS 66001 AND 66006
SR FY 2024-25 DIF REPORT INTRO FINAL.PDF
10. CITY MANAGER
CITY MANAGER VERBAL REPORT
11. CLOSED SESSION
11.A NOVEMBER 12, 2025 - CLOSED SESSION NOVEMEBR 12, 2025 - CLOSED SESSION.PDF
12. ADJOURNMENT
MAYOR CHRISTINA VILLASEÑOR ADJOURNS TO THE NEXT REGULARLY SCHEDULED MEETING AT 6:30 P.M. ON TUESDAY, DECEMEBR 9, 2025, CITY HALL, 250 CENTRAL AVENUE, FILLMORE, CA 93015.

County of Ventura, California. – The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office was awarded a $455,000.00 grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS). The grant will support our ongoing enforcement and education programs to help reduce the number of serious injuries and deaths on our roads. The grant program runs through September 2026 and is distributed among our five contract cities: Ojai, Fillmore, Camarillo, Moorpark, and Thousand Oaks.
“We are grateful to receive this grant, which will strengthen our traffic enforcement efforts and improve road safety, Ventura County Deputy Sheriff Bradley Bordon said. “Through a combination of education and enforcement efforts, our goal is to reduce dangerous driving behaviors, prevent crashes, and make our roads safer for everyone.”
The grant will provide additional programs and resources, including:
DUI checkpoints and patrols focused on stopping suspected impaired drivers.
High-visibility distracted driving enforcement operations targeting drivers in violation of California’s hands-free cell phone law.
Enforcement operations focused on the most dangerous driver behaviors that put the safety of people biking or walking at risk.
Enforcement operations focused on top violations that cause crashes: speeding, failure to yield, stop sign and/or red-light running, and improper turning or lane changes.
Community presentations on traffic safety issues such as distracted driving, impaired driving, speeding, and bicycle and pedestrian safety.
Collaborative enforcement efforts with neighboring agencies.
Officer training and/or recertification: Standard Field Sobriety Test (SFST), Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement (ARIDE), and Drug Recognition Expert (DRE).
“Through focused traffic enforcement and education, we’re working toward a future where everyone will be safe on California roads,” OTS Director Stephanie Dougherty said. “By encouraging people to prioritize safety in their daily choices, we are creating a strong road safety culture together.”
Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Prepared by: Sergeant Jason Christmann
News Release Date: November 17, 2025
Approved by: Captain Jason B. Hendren
***
Community: Media Release: Ventura County Sheriff’s Office Awarded Grant from the Office of Traffic Safety for Traffic Enforcement Program to Increase
Nature of Incident: Ventura County Sheriff’s Office Awarded Grant from the Office of Traffic Safety for Traffic Enforcement Program to Increase Safety on Roads
Location: County of Ventura
Date & Time: November 17, 2025
Unit(s) Responsible: Ventura County Sheriff’s Office

Ventura County District Attorney’s Office

VENTURA, Calif. – Ventura County District Attorney Erik Nasarenko announced today that Jose Zavala (DOB 06/13/85), of Fillmore, was convicted by a jury of four felony counts of sexual abuse against two minor victims. Zavala was found guilty of three counts of lewd acts upon a child and one count of continuous sexual abuse. Several special allegations were also found true, including that he took advantage of a position of trust or confidence and that the victims were particularly vulnerable.
Between 2019 and 2022, Zavala molested two victims. One was as young as six when the abuse started and the other was ten. The abuse took place regularly over several years. In 2023, both victims disclosed the abuses to mandated reporters who contacted law enforcement. Zavala gained access to the victims through a familial relationship.
Senior Deputy District Attorney Michael Kern, a member of the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office Sexual Assault Unit, prosecuted the case.
“The two young victims in this case showed exceptional courage by testifying in open court and confronting the person who harmed them,” Mr. Kern said. “Their strength made this verdict possible and reinforces that Ventura County will not tolerate crimes of this nature.”
Zavala is scheduled to be sentenced on December 16, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. in courtroom 26 of the Ventura County Superior Court. He faces a maximum of 100 years to life in state prison.
***
Case: 2024001044
Defendant Information: Jose Antonio Zavala Aldaco (DOB 06/13/85) Fillmore
Charges convicted of:
• (3 counts) PC 288(a) – Lewd act upon a child
• PC 288.5(a) – Continuous sexual abuse
Special allegations found true:
• PC 667.61(e)(4) – Multiple victim allegation
• PC 667.61(j)(2) – Victim under age 14
• PC 1203.066(a)(8) – Substantial sexual conduct with victim under 14 years of age
• CRC 4.421(a)(11) – The defendant took advantage of a position of trust or confidence to commit the offense
• CRC 4.421(a)(3) – Victim was particularly vulnerable
***
Contact: Joey Buttitta
Title: Communications Manager/PIO
Phone: (805) 767-3400
Email: Joey.Buttitta@venturacounty.gov
Approved: SW
Date: November 10, 2025
Release No.: 25-136

Above is Flashes Varsity scoring a touchdown in their playoff game against Cerritos High School. Photo credit Crystal Gurrola.
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Above is the Fillmore Flashes defense taking down a Cerritos player in last Friday’s game. Photo credit Crystal Gurrola.
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A Flashes player takes a dive to put a stop to a Cerritos player trying to make his way up the field. Photo credit Crystal Gurrola.
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Above are the Fillmore Flashes High School Cheerleaders during their halftime performance in Friday night’s CIF Playoff game. Photo credit Crystal Gurrola.
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By FHS Head Football Coach Charlie Weis, M. Ed.
The Fillmore Flashes football team just wrapped up one of the most remarkable seasons in school history — a season defined by leadership, redemption, and pride in the blue and white.
After finishing last year with a 2–8 record, the Flashes stormed into 2025 determined to rewrite their story. And rewrite it they did — posting the program’s first nine-win regular season since 1989 and cementing themselves among the best Fillmore teams of the modern era.
This year’s squad didn’t just win — they broke barriers that stood for generations. The Flashes earned their first victories over Royal High School and Buena High School since the 1960s, marking a return to form against longtime Ventura County powerhouses. Their consistency and toughness also secured a fourth playoff appearance in five years, proving that Fillmore football is once again a force to be reckoned with.
And of course, no Fillmore season would be complete without the Route 126 rivalry showdown — and this year’s battle was one for the ages. The Flashes dominated the Santa Paula Cardinals to reclaim the Leather Helmet Trophy, notching their fourth rivalry win in the past five years and sending the Flashes crowd into a frenzy. The victory was more than just another win — it was a statement about legacy, tradition, and pride in Fillmore Blue.
Much of this success can be credited to an outstanding senior class whose leadership and belief set the tone for the entire program. Captains Marcus Lechuga, Carlos Cabral, Mauricio Ocegueda, and Genaro Villela helped transform last year’s struggles into a season of triumphs — leading by example on and off the field and inspiring a new standard of excellence for the teams that will follow.
As the Flashes close the book on 2025, the message is clear: Fillmore football is alive, thriving, and built to last. The culture is strong, the tradition burns bright, and the future looks even brighter.

Residents of Fillmore are invited to come together for a morning of conversation, connection, and community spirit at the upcoming Coffee with Badges event, hosted at Roan Mills Grains.
This event will take place on Wednesday, November 12th, from 8:00 am to 9:30 am, at Roan Mills, located at 411 Central Avenue, and will feature first responders from the Fillmore Police Department, Fillmore Fire Department, Ventura County Fire Department, California Highway Patrol, and the Ventura County Probation Agency. Community members are encouraged to stop by, enjoy a cup of locally brewed coffee, and engage in friendly discussions with the first responders who serve their community every day.
Coffee with Badges is all about building relationships. First responders want people to feel comfortable approaching them, asking questions, and getting to know them beyond the badge.
Guests will be treated to complimentary coffee from Roan Mills, a beloved local bakery known for its breads, pastries, and warm community atmosphere.
The informal event offers a welcoming space for residents to share ideas, express concerns, or simply chat with first responders in a casual and friendly setting. No speeches or agendas – just good coffee and good conversation.
Join us in the fight against crime by following us on “X” @fillmoresheriff, Facebook, Instagram @VCSHERIFF, 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: November 7th, 2025
Approved by: Captain Eduardo Malagon
***
Ventura County Crime Stoppers will pay up to $1,000 reward for information that 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).
***
Community: Media Release: Coffee with Badges
Nature of Incident: Coffee with Badges
Report Number: N/A
Location: Roan Mills Grains, 411 Central Ave, Fillmore
Date & Time: November 12th, 8 am – 9:30 am
Unit(s) Responsible: Fillmore Police Department