City Council and Successor Agency
Regular Meeting
May 26, 2026
Council Chambers
City Hall
6:30 p.m.
MINUTES
1) CALL TO ORDER
The meeting was called to order at 6:30pm by Mayor Mendez. 2) PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
3) ROLL CALL
Members Present:
Albert Mendez, John Garnica, Christina Villaseñor, and Mario Rodriguez Members Absent:
Carrie Broggie
Also Present:
Erika Herrera, City Manager, and Tiffany Israel, City Attorney 4) APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Christina Villaseñor motioned, seconded by Mario Rodriguez to approve the Agenda Motion carried by the following voice vote: AYES: Albert Mendez, John Garnica, Christina Villaseñor, Mario Rodriguez NOES: None ABSENTS:
Carrie Broggie ABSTAINS: None
5) PRESENTATIONS
5.A) COMMUNITY ACTON VENTURA COUNTY
Department: City Clerk
Susy Lopez Garcia, Executive Director from the Community Action of Ventura County (CAVC) provided a presentation on this item.
5.B) THE OXNARD MEXICAN CONSULATE - MEXICAN AMBASSADOR
RICARDO SANTANA
Department: City Clerk
Ricardo Santana, Mexican Ambassador provided a presentation on this item.
6/3/26, 10:12 AM City Council and Successor Agency Regular Meeting https://fillmoreca.granicus.com/MinutesViewer.php?clip_id=390&doc_id=01c46931-5f6f-11f1-9b4d-005056a89546 1/8
5.C) PROCLAIMING ASIAN AMERICAN & PACIFIC ISLANDER HERITAGE MONTH-MAY 2026
Department: City Clerk
Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month - May 2026.pdf Mayor Mendez read a proclamation declaring May 2026 as Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month in the City of Fillmore on behalf of the City Council.
5.D) PROCLAIMING AMERICAN STROKE AWARENESS MONTH-MAY
2026
Department: City Clerk
PROCLAIMING AMERICAN STROKE AWARENESS MONTH-MAY
2026
Mayor Mendez read a proclamation declaring May 2026 as American Stroke Awareness Month in the City of Fillmore on behalf of the City Council.
5.E) PROCLAIMING IN SUPPORT OF BIODIVERSITY ON CALIFORNIA’S CENTRAL COAST-MAY 2026
Department: City Clerk
PROCLAIMING IN SUPPORT OF BIODIVERSITY ON CALIFORNIA’S
CENTRAL COAST-MAY 2026
Mayor Mendez read a proclamation declaring May 2026 in Support of Biodiversity on California's Central Coast Month in the City of Fillmore on behalf of the City Council.
6) PUBLIC COMMENTS
No comments.
7) CITY COUNCIL REPORTS, RECOMMENDATIONS, COMMENTS,
COMMITTEE, COMMISSION, AND BOARD REPORTS
Councilmember Rodriguez: Councilmember Rodriguez participated in the public Pothole Trail event in Piru, highlighting the trail’s historical significance and the success of the event. The trail is open to the public free of charge; visitors simply need to notify the front desk before proceeding to the gravel parking area. Councilmember Rodriguez also attended the Rotary 5K/10K Run, noting that it was a fun event and expressing appreciation for the strong sense of community and unity in Fillmore. In addition, Councilmember Rodriguez attended a meeting of the Ventura County Regional Energy Alliance, where a representative from the Local Government Climate Action Alliance presented information on technical climate solutions and regional climate goals. The 6/3/26, 10:12 AM City Council and Successor Agency Regular Meeting https://fillmoreca.granicus.com/MinutesViewer.php?clip_id=390&doc_id=01c46931-5f6f-11f1-9b4d-005056a89546 2/8 alliance aims to strengthen connections with municipal and community partners to improve public awareness of climate issues, secure funding for local climate initiatives, and advance efforts related to clean electricity, low-carbon industries, and energy project development. The alliance’s priorities include investing in wildfire prevention and resilience, energy security, urban greening, and nature-based solutions. These efforts are intended to support improvements in housing, air quality, public health, public safety, and local economic development throughout the region.
Councilmember Garnica: Councilmember Garnica did not attend the Rotary 5K/10K Run but saw posts about the event online and noted that it appeared to be very successful.
Councilmember Villaseñor: Councilmember Villaseñor highlighted the success of the Rotary 5K/10K Run and the Health and Wellness Fair. The event marked the sixth annual Health and Wellness Fair, sponsored by the City of Fillmore and the Fillmore Unified School District. Councilmember Villaseñor expressed appreciation to the City of Fillmore, particularly Amanda DeZavala, the event's primary coordinator, as well as the School District for their partnership. He noted that the event has grown significantly over the years, expanding from only a few tables to approximately 45–50 vendors, with an excellent community turnout. Councilmember Villaseñor praised the collaboration among the City, School District, and Rotary Club in promoting health, fitness, and community engagement, and he looks forward to the event's continued growth and success. Congratulations were extended to everyone involved in making the event a success. Villaseñor also attended an event at Mountain View Elementary School during Public Works Week. He enjoyed seeing Public Works Director Joe Bellomo, along with Public Works and Fleet Services staff, engaging with transitional kindergarten through thirdgrade students. He noted that other council members visited schools throughout the week as part of the program. Students received hard hats and Fillmore-themed coloring books, and Villaseñor thanked City staff for providing a fun and educational experience for local youth. Additionally, Councilmember Villaseñor attended a meeting of the Ventura Regional Sanitation District, where routine business matters were discussed. He noted that landfill disposal fees are expected to increase slightly during the 2026–2027 fiscal year, although exact rates were not discussed during his report. Villaseñor also mentioned a community forum held in Santa Paula regarding the future of the local hospital. The forum, sponsored by the Santa Paula Latino Town Hall, focused on maintaining a full-service hospital campus within the Santa Clara Valley. He stated that he expects to receive updates regarding the forum's outcomes and will report back on any developments and next steps.
Mayor Mendez: Mayor Mendez attended Public Works Week activities at Rio Vista Elementary School alongside Council Member Broggie. He described the event as a great experience and thanked all staff and participants who helped 6/3/26, 10:12 AM City Council and Successor Agency Regular Meeting https://fillmoreca.granicus.com/MinutesViewer.php?clip_id=390&doc_id=01c46931-5f6f-11f1-9b4d-005056a89546 3/8 make it a success. Mayor Mendez also participated in the “Coffee with Our First Responders” event, where he expressed appreciation for the dedication and service of the City’s first responders and Public Works employees, recognizing their important contributions to keeping the community safe and functioning effectively. The Mayor announced that Scholarship Night would be held on May 27 at 6:30 p.m. in the Fillmore High School gymnasium. He noted that numerous nonprofit organizations would be awarding scholarships to deserving graduating seniors and encouraged community members to attend and celebrate the students’ achievements. He described the event as a meaningful reflection of the community’s generosity and commitment to supporting local youth. Additionally, Mayor Mendez commended Fillmore’s athletic teams for their efforts and accomplishments, noting that they continue to compete successfully against much larger schools and cities while representing Fillmore with pride and distinction.
8) CONSENT CALENDAR
8.A) MAY 12, 2026 - REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES Department: City Clerk
MAY 12, 2026 - REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
8.B) ADOPTION OF ORDINANCE NO. 26-996: AMENDING FILLMORE MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTER 7.12,"VENDORS, SIDEWALK
VENDORS, AND SOLICITORS" TO ALLOW SIDEWALK VENDORS TO
OPERATE WITHOUT OBTAINING A PERMIT
Department: Administration
SR- ORD 26-996 SIDEWALK VENDORS (2115716.3).pdf
8.C) CITY OF FILLMORE WARRANT REGISTER-MAY 26, 2026
Department: Finance
CITY OF FILLMORE WARRANT REGISTER-MAY 26, 2026.pdf
8.D) CONSIDERATION OF AN APPROPRIATION FROM WATER RESERVE FUND 504 AND APPROVAL OF THE SECOND AMENDMENT TO THE
CONTRACT SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH EXODUS WATER
SERVICES LLC TO INCLUDE TESTING OF BACKFLOW
PREVENTION ASSEMBLIES AND WATER LOSS AUDIT REPORTING
Department: Public Works
SR - SECOND AMENDMENT TO CONTRACT WITH EXODUS WATER
FOR WATER LOSS REPORT.pdf
8.E) ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION TO RESCHEDULE THE PUBLIC
HEARING TO CONSIDER THE PROPOSED ANNUAL LEVY OF
ASSESSMENTS FOR THE CITY OF FILLMORE STORM DRAIN
MAINTENANCE DISTRICTS
6/3/26, 10:12 AM City Council and Successor Agency Regular Meeting https://fillmoreca.granicus.com/MinutesViewer.php?clip_id=390&doc_id=01c46931-5f6f-11f1-9b4d-005056a89546 4/8 Department: Finance
SR - RESCHEDULING THE PUBLIC HEARING ON THE LEVY OF THE STORM DRAINS FY2627 FINAL.PDF
Mario Rodriguez motioned, seconded by Christina Villaseñor to approve Consent Items 8A–8E, Council Member Villaseñor abstained from voting on Item 8.E, SD #4 – Riverwalk, and Council Member Rodriguez abstained from voting on Item 8.E, SD #3. Motion carried by the following voice vote: AYES:
Albert Mendez, John Garnica, Christina Villaseñor, Mario Rodriguez NOES:
None ABSENTS: Carrie Broggie ABSTAINS: None
9) NEW BUSINESS
9.A) CONSIDERATION OF CITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION NO. 26-4115, CALLING AND GIVING NOTICE OF THE NOVEMBER 3, 2026,
GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION AND REQUESTING
CONSOLIDATION WITH THE STATEWIDE GENERAL ELECTION
BEING CONDUCTED BY THE COUNTY OF VENTURA THE SAME
DAY
Department: City Clerk
SR -CALLING THE 2026 ELECTION (2125191.5).pdf
Ana Cendejas, Deputy City Clerk presented item 9.A.
Albert Mendez motioned, to approve Resolution No. 26-4115: Calling for the Holding of a General Municipal Election to be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, for the Election of Council Members from: one from District 1 for a term of two years; one from District 3 for a full term of four years; and one from District 4 for a full term of four years, and Requesting Consolidation of the Election for These Council Members with the November 3, 2026, Statewide General Election. Motion carried by the following voice vote: AYES: Albert Mendez, John Garnica, Christina Villaseñor, Mario Rodriguez NOES: None ABSENTS:
Carrie Broggie ABSTAINS: None
9.B) PUBLIC HEARING: CONSIDERATION OF ZONING ORDINANCE
AMENDMENT 26-01, ORDINANCE 26-995, UPDATING THE
FILLMORE MUNICIPAL CODE TO COMPLY WITH STATE LAWS
REGARDING ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS AND JUNIOR
ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS AND FINDING OF EXEMPTION
FROM CEQA
Department: Planning / Community Development
SR -ORD. 26-995 ADU ORDINANCE
Brian McCarthy, Asst. Community Development Director presented on item 9.B.
6/3/26, 10:12 AM City Council and Successor Agency Regular Meeting https://fillmoreca.granicus.com/MinutesViewer.php?clip_id=390&doc_id=01c46931-5f6f-11f1-9b4d-005056a89546 5/8 Christina Villaseñor motioned, seconded by John Garnica to approve the first reading to introduce Ordinance No. 26-995 approving ZOA 26- 01 and finding of exemption from CEQA.. by Christina Villasenor, Seconded by John Garnica; Pass 4-0, 1 Absent Motion carried by the following voice vote: AYES: Albert Mendez, John Garnica, Christina Villaseñor, Mario Rodriguez NOES: None ABSENTS: Carrie Broggie ABSTAINS: None
9.C) ADOPTION OF PLANS, SPECIFICATIONS, AND COST ESTIMATE FOR PROJECT SPECIFICATION NO. 25-08, SANTA CLARA STREET
WATER LINE IMPROVEMENTS, AND AUTHORIZATION TO
ADVERTISE FOR CONSTRUCTION BIDS
Department: Planning / Community Development
SR - ADOPTION OF PLANS, SPECIFICATIONS, AND COST
ESTIMATE FOR PROJECT SPECIFICATION NO. 25-08, SANTA
CLARA STREET WATER LINE IMPROVEMENTS, AND
AUTHORIZATION TO ADVERTISE FOR CONSTRUCTION BIDS
Roxanne Hughes, P.E City Engineer presented on item 9.C.
Mario Rodriguez motioned, seconded by John Garnica to approve to adopt the attached plans, specifications, and estimate (“PS&E”) for the Santa Clara Street Water Line Improvements Project (Spec No. 25-08) and authorize advertisement for construction bids. Motion carried by the following voice vote: AYES: Albert Mendez, John Garnica, Christina Villaseñor, Mario Rodriguez NOES: None ABSENTS: Carrie Broggie ABSTAINS: None
9.D) CONSIDERATION OF AUTHORIZATION FOR VEOLIA TO PROCEED
WITH REPAIRS TO THE FILLMORE WATER RECYCLING PLANT
Department: Public Works
SR - REPAIR OF COARSE SCREEN AND MISCELLANOUS
EQUIPMENT AT FWRP. FINAL.pdf
Joe Bellomo, P.E. Public Works Director presented on item 9.D.
John Garnica motioned, seconded by Mario Rodriguez to approve to transfer $220,000 from Fund 503 to Fund 301, and Authorize the Public Works Director to authorize Veolia to proceed with the necessary repairs to the coarse screen and other critical repairs for an amount not-toexceed $220,000 Motion carried by the following voice vote: AYES:
Albert Mendez, John Garnica, Christina Villaseñor, Mario Rodriguez NOES: None ABSENTS: Carrie Broggie ABSTAINS: None
9.E) AWARD OF CONTRACTS FOR PHASE TWO OF THE SPORTS FIELD LIGHTING PROJECT, PROJECT SPECIFICATION NO. 25-13
Department: Public Works
6/3/26, 10:12 AM City Council and Successor Agency Regular Meeting https://fillmoreca.granicus.com/MinutesViewer.php?clip_id=390&doc_id=01c46931-5f6f-11f1-9b4d-005056a89546 6/8
SR - TWO RIVER PARK BASEBALL FIELDS LIGHTING PROJECT
(SN25-13).pdf
Joe Bellomo, P.E. Public Works Director presented on item 9.E.
Christina Villaseñor motioned, seconded by Mario Rodriguez to approve the appropriation in the amount of $556,486.88 from unallocated funds in the Park Improvement Fund 464 for the purchase, delivery, and installation of sport field lighting for baseball fields at Two Rivers Park known as Project Specification No. 25-13 (“Project”); and Approve a contract, in a form approved by the City Attorney’s office, with Techline Sports Lighting, LLC, (“Techline”) for an amount not-to-exceed $556,486.88 for the Project. Motion carried by the following voice vote:
AYES: Albert Mendez, John Garnica, Christina Villaseñor, Mario Rodriguez NOES: None ABSENTS: Carrie Broggie ABSTAINS: None
9.F) ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION NO. 26-4113 APPROVING THE
MUNICIPAL COST ALLOCATION PLAN FOR THE CITY OF FILLMORE AND ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION NO. 26-4114 APPROVING THE FY 2026-27 ANNUAL BUDGET FOR THE CITY OF FILLMORE
Department: Finance
SR - FY 2026-27 COST ALLOCATION PLAN AND PRELIMINARY
BUDGET FINAL.PDF
Debra Cavaletto, Finance Director presented on item 9.F.
Mario Rodriguez motioned, seconded by Christina Villaseñor to approve Resolution No. 26-4113 adopting the Municipal Cost Allocation Plan, Review and modify, as appropriate, the Preliminary Budget and to approved Resolution No. 26-4114 adopting the FY 2026-27 Annual Budget. Motion carried by the following voice vote: AYES: Albert Mendez, John Garnica, Christina Villaseñor, Mario Rodriguez NOES:
None ABSENTS: Carrie Broggie ABSTAINS: None
9.G) FIRST AMENDMENT WITH TWO SENIOR NUTRITION PROGRAM
FOOD SERVICES VENDORS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2026/2027
Department: Finance
SR - 2026 SENIOR NUTRITION PROGRAM CONTRACTS FIRST
AMENDMENT.PDF
Debra Cavaletto, Finance Director presented on item 9.G.
Christina Villaseñor motioned, seconded by John Garnica to approve the contract amendments with two food services vendors, Azul Foundation and Jordano’s Foodservice, to support the City’s Senior Nutrition Program in the next fiscal year for a not-to-exceed amount of $127,000 and $55,000, respectively, with a combined not-to exceed amount of $182,000 for fiscal year 2025/26, 2. If the fiscal year 2026/27 budget has not yet been approved, appropriate $145,000 for the Senior Nutrition Program for the year; and 3. Authorize a one year extension 6/3/26, 10:12 AM City Council and Successor Agency Regular Meeting https://fillmoreca.granicus.com/MinutesViewer.php?clip_id=390&doc_id=01c46931-5f6f-11f1-9b4d-005056a89546 7/8 with each contractor in the amount of $100,000 and $45,000, respectively in a form approved by the City Attorney’s office Motion carried by the following voice vote: AYES: Albert Mendez, John Garnica, Christina Villaseñor, Mario Rodriguez NOES: None ABSENTS:
Carrie Broggie ABSTAINS: None
10) CITY MANAGER
City Manager Herrera: The City Manager provided updates on several items, including the status and progress of Well 10, ongoing and upcoming street maintenance projects, coordination efforts for the upcoming joint meeting with FUSD, and developments related to SB 707. The City Manager also reported on the Sheriff Department Bike Rodeo held on May 30th at Rio Vista, which focused on promoting bicycle safety and community engagement.
Assistant Manager Minjares: The Assistant City Manager provided updates regarding the encampment, including ongoing efforts and related activities, and shared information on the status of the current grant.
11) CLOSED SESSION
12) ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Mendez adjourned the meeting in honor of community member William Arthur Dewey, who passed away on May 9, 2026.
There being no further business to come before the Council, the meeting was adjourned.
These minutes summarize the final decisions made by the City Council at the referenced meeting. The meeting was also audio recorded, and the recording is available for review. In the event of any ambiguity regarding the Council’s final decisions, the audio recording shall be used to interpret the Council’s intent.
The audio recording shall serve as the official record of the proceedings whenever, in the Council’s opinion, the minutes are insufficient. An audio copy of the City Council meeting proceedings is available by contacting the Fillmore Deputy City Clerk.
Prepared by:
______________________________________________
Ana Cendejas, Deputy City Clerk
6/3/26, 10:12 AM City Council and Successor Agency Regular Meeting https://fillmoreca.granicus.com/MinutesViewer.php?clip_id=390&doc_id=01c46931-5f6f-11f1-9b4d-005056a89546 8/8