Camarillo City Council
AGENDA REPORT
Date: June 24, 2026
To: Honorable Mayor and City Councilmembers
From: Greg Ramirez, City Manager
Submitted by: Carmen Nichols, Assistant City Manager
Subject: Grant Contribution Agreement between the City and the Pleasant Valley Historical Society
BACKGROUND
The Pleasant Valley Historical Society (PVHS) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1964. The Pleasant Valley Historical Society opened the Museum and Garden in 1988. It is dedicated to serving the community by preserving and presenting the history of the Pleasant Valley area and sharing the rich heritage with all who visit. Their mission is to acquire, identify, restore and preserve artifacts, documents and photographs related to the Pleasant Valley Community; to make the museum and garden a focal point for the dissemination of local history and public education; and to recognize residents who have provided outstanding service to the Pleasant Valley community.
On March 17, 1986, the City and PVHS entered into its first lease agreement for use of the City owned building and grounds for Museum operations located at 720 Las Posas Road. In the most recent amendment of the agreement, approved March 2018, in addition to extending the lease, the PVHS informed the City of its intent to undertake the potential expansion of the existing building or construction of a new building, or a combination of both types of improvements. The City will continue to own the building and grounds.
On June 5, 2026, the City received a funding request from PVHS in the amount of $250,000 for site improvements for the property that will help narrow the gap of funds required to complete the project, now in its final phase.
DISCUSSION
The museum has grown to include the history of the living as well as the forefathers and proposes to expand to special children’s programs and programs for schools, in both history and science. Space for those programs requires a planned expansion that will increase the original 1,555 sq. ft. of the display/meeting area with another 1,153 sq. ft. Also, the present building will be renovated/retrofitted. The outside will reflect the craftsman style of the early Pleasant Valley and will include a landmark tower to increase visibility from Las Posas Road. A larger museum will provide:
• Expanded exhibit space for newly obtained historical items of local interest • Classroom space for interactive school programs and field trips
Request by Pleasant Valley Historical Society
June 24, 2026
3 3
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• Protection/storage for our collections
• A dedicated space for The Fulkerson Library
• Improved parking and accessibility
• Exterior donor wall and bulletin board
Per PVHS, the total construction costs are approximately $2.1 million, with nearly $1.5 million raised and almost fully expended. The City’s financial contribution of $250,000 will narrow the gap of funds needed to finish the project. Per the PVHS, the investment will allow the opening of the grounds and the parking area for events, which will allow for the remaining funds to be raised to complete museum construction.
The PVHS provides a benefit to the community and a financial contribution of $250,000 is considered to service a public purpose for the use of public funds. PVHS serves the entire community of Camarillo and the adjoining areas including Somis and the Santa Rosa Valley. The museum provides an archive for historical artifacts for the entire area as well as exhibits and events for the area. They serve all age ranges including school aged children, families, adults, seniors and others. PVHS also coordinates with many other community groups, especially schools from pre-school levels to college.
FISCAL IMPACT
Funds for a Grant Contribution Agreement to PVHS are included in the General Fund, Community Grants budget, Account No. 101-4500-441.45-13.
CITY COUNCIL STRATEGIC PLAN FY 2026/27
This Grant Contribution Agreement supports the City Council’s Strategic Plan Goal and Objective 2.6 – Community Enrichment – Explore potential changes to the process and source of funding, with the objective of increasing the level of City financial support for nonprofit serving the community.
CEQA DETERMINATIONS
Not Applicable.
RECOMMENDATION
1. Approve a Grant Contribution Agreement with Pleasant Valley Historical Society for $250,000.
2. Authorize the City Manager to execute CC Agreement 2026-57 with PVHS for $250,000 for project improvements.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Grant Contribution Agreement with Exhibit
REFERENCE MATERIALS – AVAILABLE FOR REVIEW AT CITY HALL None