DISTRICT 1 - LESLIE RULE
DISTRICT 2 - RACHEL LANG
DISTRICT 3 - ANDREW WHITMAN
DISTRICT 4 - KIM MANG
BEN HARVEY
CITY MANAGER
MATTHEW SUMMERS
CITY ATTORNEY
WESTON MONTGOMERY
CHIEF DEPUTY CITY CLERK
AGENDA
CITY COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2025, 6:00 PM
KENT HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS - CITY HALL CAMPUS - 111 W SANTA ANA ST, OJAI, CA
OJAI CITY COUNCIL
ANDY GILMAN, MAYOR
VIEWING & ACCESS
Public participation is encouraged! The Ojai City Council meets regularly on the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month at 6:00 p.m. The meetings are conducted in a hybrid model, providing both in-person attendance and virtual public comment via the Zoom link below.
Virtual attendance via Zoom is the only way to remotely provide public comment. Preregistration is not required for public comment via Zoom. Instead, Zoom participants will utilize the “hand-raise” function to indicate their desire to speak on an item. The meeting is also livestreamed on the City's website at ojai.ca.gov/525/2968/Public-Meetings, on YouTube at youtube.com/@ojaicity, and on Spectrum Channel 10. See “Public Comment Options” below for further instruction.
Zoom Link - October 21 Special Meeting
ROLL CALL
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
CONSENT CALENDAR
All matters listed on the Consent Calendar are to be considered routine and will be enacted by one motion in the form listed. There will be no discussion of these items unless, before the vote on the motion to adopt, specific items are removed from the Consent Calendar for separate motions.
Tuesday, October 21, 2025 Ojai City Council Agenda
1 1. City of Ojai Warrants for September 29, 2025 – October 12, 2025
2. Reappointment of Area Housing Authority Commissioner
3. City Council Goals
4. Concept Review: Public Safety Commission
5. Trolley Driver Pilot Benefit Program
6. Memorandum of Agreement with Space Launch Delta 30 for the Monitoring of Sonic Booms from Vandenberg Space Force Base
RECOMMENDATION: Receive and file.
Administrative Report - Warrant Report
Attachment A - Warrant Report Register
RECOMMENDATION: That the City Council reappoint Mr. Steve Mason to serve a new four-year term as the City of Ojai’s representative on the Area Housing Authority Board of Commissioners.
Administrative Report - Area Housing Authority Reappointment Attachment A - Application, Support Letter and Information
DISCUSSION
RECOMMENDATION: That the City Council discuss and adopt the City Council goals and corresponding tactics for staff analysis, along with estimates of additional resources (monetary, human, or both) needed for each prioritized tactic.
Administrative Report - City Council Goals and Tactics
Attachment A - City Council Goals and Tactics with Staff Cost Estimates RECOMMENDATION: Direct the City Manager, in consultation with the City Attorney, to return at a future meeting with a first reading of a draft ordinance establishing a Public Safety Commission.
Administrative Report - Concept Review - Public Safety Commission RECOMMENDATION: For the City Council to approve a Trolley Driver Pilot Benefit Program that authorizes employment benefits for trolley drivers with the goal of attracting and retaining trolley drivers.
Administrative Report - Trolley Driver Pilot Benefit Program Attachment A - Trolley Driver Pilot Benefit Program
RECOMMENDATION: That the City Council authorize the City Manager to enter into a Memorandum of Agreement with Space Launch Delta 30 for the monitoring of sonic booms from Vandenberg Space Force Base.
Administrative Report - Sonic Boom Monitoring Station
Attachment A - SLD 30 Sonic Boom Monitoring Station MOA
ADJOURNMENT
Posted October 16, 2025 at 4:00 p.m. Weston Montgomery, Chief Deputy City Clerk
ACCOMMODATIONS
Tuesday, October 21, 2025 Ojai City Council Agenda
2 In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please call (805) 646-5581. Notification 48 hours prior to the meeting will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting.
If you feel that a language interpreter is necessary for you to participate in this meeting, notification 48 hours prior to the meeting will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements for an interpreter to assure your participation/understanding of this meeting.
Si considera que un intérprete de idiomas es necesario para participar en esta reunión, la notificación 48 horas antes de la reunión le permitirá a la Ciudad hacer arreglos razonables para que un intérprete asegure su participación/comprensión de esta reunión del Concejo Municipal.
Para Español por favor llame al (805) 646-5581 ext. 100 o por correo electronico a [email protected].
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
Agenda reports and other disclosable public records related to agenda items are available on the City's website at ojai.ca.gov/525/2968/Public-Meetings and at City Hall located at 401 S.
Ventura St., Ojai, Ca., during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
PUBLIC COMMENT OPTIONS
The easiest way to submit written public comments is through the “eComment” function on the City Council’s Public Meetings page . Please click into the “eComment” link for the desired date and agenda item.
Written Comments: In order for staff to provide the City Council with written public comments timely, written/emailed public comments must be submitted no later than 3:00 p.m. on the day before the meeting.
You may always submit written comments to the City Clerk via mail, in person at City Hall, or via email to [email protected]. If your written comment is received by 3:00 p.m. on the day before the meeting date, the City Clerk will distribute copies of your comments to all Council Members and recorded on the City website. Written comments received after 3:00 p.m. may not be distributed to the Council Members and recorded on the City website until after the meeting.
Verbal Comments: Verbal Comments will be received on any item on the agenda at the time the agenda item is heard. Comments may be made in person at the meeting or through Zoom, via the link at the top of the Agenda. Pre-registration is not required for public comment via Zoom. Instead, Zoom participants will utilize the hand-raise function to indicate their desire to speak on an item.
IMPORTANT NOTES:
All materials related to an item on this agenda, including written public comments, will be available for public inspection in the City Clerk's Office at City Hall, and following the meeting, will be accessible on the City of Ojai's website at ojai.ca.gov.
Tuesday, October 21, 2025 Ojai City Council Agenda
3 As a government agency, the City of Ojai is subject to the California Public Records Act (Government Code § 6250 et seq.). Please be advised that all communications submitted to City officials and staff are subject to public disclosure under the California Public Records Act.
There are limited exceptions that allow the City to redact personal information under the California Public Records Act. If you have concerns regarding privacy, please do not include your personal identifying information, such as your name, e-mail, phone number, and home address in your correspondence to the City, including, but not limited to, public comment.
If you challenge the actions of the City Council in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in the public notices, or in written correspondence delivered to the City Council at, or prior to, the public hearing (California Government Code Section 65009).
Any legal action by an applicant seeking to obtain a judicial review of the City Council's decision on a Hearing listed on this Agenda may be subject to the 90-day filing period of and governed by Code of Civil Procedure Section 1094.6.
LEVINE ACT WARNING
Applicants and their agents before the City Council are subject to the campaign disclosure provisions detailed in Government Code Section 84308. No City Council Member may accept, solicit, or direct a contribution of more than $500 from any party or agent for 12 months subsequent to the date a final decision is rendered by the City. This prohibition commences when your application has been filed, or the proceeding is otherwise initiated.
A party to a City proceeding - which includes both applicants and agents - shall disclose on the record of the proceeding any contribution of more than $500 made to any Council Member by the applicant or agent, during the preceding 12 months. No party to a City proceeding, or agent, shall make a contribution to a Council Member during the proceeding and for 12 months following the date a final decision is rendered by the City.
Prior to rendering a decision on a City proceeding, any Council Member who received a contribution of more than $500 within the preceding 12 months from any party, or agent, to a proceeding shall disclose that fact on the record of the proceeding and shall be disqualified from participating in the proceeding. However, if any Council Member receives a contribution that otherwise would require disqualification and returns the contribution within 30 days of knowing about the contribution and the relevant proceeding, the Council Member shall be permitted to participate in the proceeding.
If you believe that these provisions apply to you or a Council Member, please inform the City Clerk at the earliest possible opportunity. Failure to do so may affect the City's ability to process your application.
Tuesday, October 21, 2025 Ojai City Council Agenda
4
Administrative Report
TO: Honorable City Council
FROM: Ben Harvey, City Manager
Christy Billings, Interim Finance Director
MEETING DATE: October 21, 2025
SUBJECT: City of Ojai Warrants for September 29, 2025 – October 12, 2025
RECOMMENDATION
Receive and file.
DISCUSSION
Disbursement Warrant Check Numbers: 79662-79730
Payroll Warrant Check Numbers: 38348-38349
Number of Direct Deposits: 56
City of Ojai Disbursement Warrants for General Fund
and Special Revenue Funds $ 516,674.90
Payroll – October 02, 2025 111,888.69
Total $ 628,563.59
CITY COUNCIL GOALS ALIGNMENT
Goal No. 8 - Financial Stability
OPTIONS
1. Take no action.
2. Provide alternate direction to staff.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact associated with this action. The list of warrants is presented for informational purposes only and reflects payments previously authorized and budgeted.
Prepared by: Scott Avila
ATTACHMENT(S)
A. Check Register
5 Check Register
Check No Vendor Name Check Date Check Amount
79662 Ojai Valley Fire Safe Council, Inc. 10/07/2025 38,602.50 Fire Safety Professional Service Agreement
79663 7 Day Tire LLC 10/09/2025 3,781.35
September 2025 Trolley Maintenance
79664 Accela Inc. 10/09/2025 22,575.62
Annual Community Development Software Subscription
79665 Airgas West 10/09/2025 202.09
Transit & Public Works Gas Cylinder Rentals
79666 AllGood Driving School, Inc. 10/09/2025 112.00
Recreation Class- Driver Education
79667 Amy Farah Weiss 10/09/2025 1,000.00
September & October 2025 OTT Monthly Trailer Rental
79668 California State Disbursement Unit 10/09/2025 82.15 October 2025 Payroll Expense
79669 Catalina Industries Inc 10/09/2025 321.16
Paint for Citywide Maintenance
79670 Falcon Roofing Company Charles Michael Parrent 10/09/2025 44,438.40 Museum Chapel Roof Replacement Project
79671 Christy Billings 10/09/2025 73.89
Employee Reimbursement
79672 City Management Advisors LLC 10/09/2025 18,666.67 August & September 2025 Finance Director Recruitment
79673 Clean Harbors Environmental Services Inc 10/09/2025 14,035.13 Lithium Battery Removal & OTT Tent Decontamination
79674 County Fire Protection 10/09/2025 88.60
September 2025 Fire Extinguisher Service
79675 County of Ventura 10/09/2025 26,500.00
FY25-26 Q1 Library Services Agreement
79676 Court-Ordered Debt Collections 10/09/2025 337.43
October 2025 Payroll Expense
Check Summary By Check Number
Attachment A
6 Check Register
Check No Vendor Name Check Date Check Amount
Check Summary By Check Number
79677 DATCO 10/09/2025 240.00
Pre-employment Physical & Random Drug Test
79678 Dell Marketing LP 10/09/2025 10,832.10
Computer Purchase (10 Qty)
79679 Delta Liquid Energy 10/09/2025 1,770.39
September 2025 Trolley Fuel
79680 Emmanuel A Mendez 10/09/2025 1,144.00
October 2025 City Transit Wash
79681 Fred's Tire Man 10/09/2025 177.85
Public Works Vehicle Tire Repair
79682 Darrell Gooden 10/09/2025 572.00
Recreation Class- Kung Fu
79683 Lucy Walker Grace 10/09/2025 1,300.00
Recreation Class- Dog Training
79684 Green Thumb Int'l 10/09/2025 196.47
Equipment for Citywide Maintenance
79685 Greg Rents 10/09/2025 1,020.09
Public Works Equipment Rental
79686 E.J. Harrison & Sons 10/09/2025 7,082.69
September 2025 Arcade Rolloff Dumpster Rental
79687 HdL Coren & Cone 10/09/2025 2,587.50
July - September 2025 Property Tax Contract Services
79688 Help of Ojai Inc. 10/09/2025 4,500.00
August 2025 ADA Program
79689 Interface Children Family Services 10/09/2025 1,201.00 Ventura County Information and Referral Services
79690 Johannes M Pouw 10/09/2025 1,878.50
Recreation Class- Flag Football
79691 Jolly Jumps Rentals 10/09/2025 8,170.25
Jolly Jumpers for Ojai Day 2025
Attachment A
7 Check Register
Check No Vendor Name Check Date Check Amount
Check Summary By Check Number
79692 Lior Peres 10/09/2025 450.00
Reimbursement for Building Permit
79693 Maura Macaluso 10/09/2025 65.00
Employee Reimbursement
79694 Marborg Industries 10/09/2025 1,496.90
July 2025 Restroom Services for OTT
79695 Martin's Ojai Locksmith 10/09/2025 562.25
September 2025 Door Repairs & Key Replacements
79696 Meiners Oaks Hardware 10/09/2025 1,428.87
Supplies for Citywide Maintenance
79697 Meyers Nave, A Professional Corporation 10/09/2025 4,567.50 August 2025 Special Counsel - Brown Act
79698 MV Cheng & Associates Inc. 10/09/2025 10,067.50
September 2025 Finance Consulting Services
79699 Ojai Business Center Inc 10/09/2025 104.14
September 2025 Copy of Property Plans
79700 Ojai Lumber Company Inc 10/09/2025 640.11
Supplies for Citywide Maintenance
79701 Ojai True Value Hardware 10/09/2025 27.61
Supplies for Citywide Maintenance
79702 Ojai Valley Chamber of Commerce 10/09/2025 18,200.00 August & September 2025 Professional Service Agreement
79703 Ojai Valley News 10/09/2025 2,814.16
August 2025 Legal Ads & Notices
79704 Ojai Valley Sanitary District 10/09/2025 1,635.62 October 2025 Sewer Services
79705 Olivarez Madruga Law Organization, LLP 10/09/2025 11,616.00 August 2025 TOT Attorney Fees
Attachment A
8 Check Register
Check No Vendor Name Check Date Check Amount
Check Summary By Check Number
79706 Pax Environmental Inc 10/09/2025 1,406.70
July 2025 Arborist Consultation Services
79707 Prudential Overall Supply 10/09/2025 466.83
Public Works Cleaning Supplies & Clothing Allowance
79708 Vicke Quinlyn 10/09/2025 200.00
Ojai Day 2025 Poster Winner
79709 Rachel Hunt 10/09/2025 24.09
Employee Reimbursement
79710 Raimi & Associates Inc 10/09/2025 11,463.90
July & August 2025 General Plan Update Services
79711 Ready Refresh by Nestle 10/09/2025 724.66
September 2025 Drinking Water for City Departments & OTT 79712 Red Wing Shoe Store 10/09/2025 600.00
Public Works Boot Allowance
79713 Rick Raine 10/09/2025 150.00
Employee Reimbursement
79714 Gary Ryan 10/09/2025 1,802.25
Recreation Class- Weight Room
79715 Jan C. Scow 10/09/2025 1,784.00
September 2025 Tree Site Evaluations
79716 Secural Security Corporation 10/09/2025 6,895.68
September 2025 City Unhoused Security
79717 Lucas Seibert 10/09/2025 50.00
Employee Reimbursement
79718 Sharmin Naghi Manzarek 10/09/2025 1,560.00
Recreation Class- Singing & Acting
79719 Scott Silver 10/09/2025 715.00
September 2025 OTT Water Pump Maintenance
Attachment A
9 Check Register
Check No Vendor Name Check Date Check Amount
Check Summary By Check Number
79720 Sinclair Sanitary Supply, Inc. 10/09/2025 1,110.95 Supplies for Citywide Maintenance
79721 So Cal Gas 10/09/2025 91.60
September 2025 Gas
79722 Southern CA Edison 10/09/2025 28,919.55
September 2025 City Street Lights
79723 Total Restoration 10/09/2025 7,815.60
OTT Tent Decontamination & Cleaning
79724 Tripepi Smith and Associates, Inc. 10/09/2025 8,022.50 September 2025 Graphic Art Services & Content Development 79725 Tyco Integrated Security, LLC 10/09/2025 897.27
October - December 2025 City Hall Alarm Services
79726 County of Ventura 10/09/2025 7,254.84
July 2025 Repairs to Trolley & Public Works Truck
79727 Ventura Pest Management 10/09/2025 3,250.00
City Hall & Public Works Pest Control
79728 Katya Welborn 10/09/2025 3,568.50
Recreation Class- Tennis
79729 Western NRG Inc 10/09/2025 1,034.00
October 2025 Email Security & Annual Renewal Fee
79730 Witherspoon Industries Inc 10/09/2025 90.00
September 2025 City Unhoused Storage Rental
ACH Mission Square 457 ACH 10/01/2025 7,996.67
October 2025 Payroll Expense
ACH IRS ACH 10/02/2025 41,812.42
October 2025 Payroll Expense
ACH EDD ACH 10/02/2025 6,532.81
October 2025 Payroll Expense
Attachment A
10 Check Register
Check No Vendor Name Check Date Check Amount
Check Summary By Check Number
ACH CalPERS Retirement ACH 10/08/2025 21,403.84
October 2025 Payroll Expense
ACH Phoenix Civil Engineering, Inc. 09/29/2025 26,904.00 August 2025 Citywide Projects
(Storm Drain Repair & Parking Lot Paving)
ACH Colantuono, Highsmith & Whatley, PC 09/29/2025 45,528.87 August 2025 General Services
General Services 17,500.00
Special Projects 6,786.50
Labor & Employment 2,790.00
Criminal Code Enforcement 1,769.95
Encampment Resolution Grant Management (Reimbursable) 6,952.50 Elections Advice 93.00
Tax & Assessments Advice 434.00
General Litigation 5,606.92
Active Litigation & Settlement Management 3,596.00
ACH Ameriflex: Claims ACH 09/29/2025 132.88
October 2025 Payroll Expense
ACH Altigen Communications, Inc. 09/29/2025 7,700.00
September 2025 Telephone & Microsoft Teams Direct Integration Fee ACH Pitney Bowes-Reserve Account 09/29/2025 1,600.00
City Hall Postage Machine Refill
Total 516,674.90
ACH Payroll
Pay Period 9/15/2025-9/28/2025 10/02/2025 111,888.69
Wire & Paper Check Total 111,888.69
Grand Total $ 628,563.59
Attachment A
11
Administrative Report
TO: Honorable City Council
FROM: Ben Harvey, City Manager
MEETING DATE: October 21, 2025
SUBJECT: Reappointment of Area Housing Authority (AHA)
Commissioner
RECOMMENDATION
That the City Council reappoint Mr. Steve Mason to serve a new four-year term as the City of Ojai’s representative on the Area Housing Authority (AHA) Board of Commissioners.
DISCUSSION
The County’s AHA provides housing assistance and affordable housing programs across the region. Each participating jurisdiction appoints two commissioners to the Board of Commissioners, each serving a four-year term.
Mr. Steve Mason has been serving as one of Ojai’s appointed Commissioners, with his current term expiring in October 2025. According to the AHA, Commissioner Mason has been an excellent representative for the City of Ojai throughout his term, actively participating in Board matters and serving as a reliable liaison between the Authority and the City. The AHA has expressed its support for Mr. Mason’s reappointment (as seen in Attachment A), noting his strong performance and commitment as a Commissioner.
Reappointing Mr. Mason will maintain Ojai’s effective representation on the AHA Board.
Staff recommends approval to support this community member’s desire to continue their volunteer service. Mr. Mason resides in Meiners Oaks representing the Ojai Valley and City.
CITY COUNCIL GOALS ALIGNMENT
Goal No. 1 - Affordable Housing
OPTIONS
1. Take no action;
2. Provide alternative direction to staff.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact as a result of this action.
Prepared by: Weston Montgomery, Chief Deputy City Clerk
ATTACHMENT(S)
A. AHA Commissioner Information and Mason Support
12 1
Weston Montgomery
From: S. M.
Sent: Monday, August 25, 2025 3:27 PM
To: Andy Gilman
Cc: Weston Montgomery; Mike Nigh; Carrie Sabatini
Subject: Appointment to Affordable Housing
Attachments: Steve Mason fact sheet signed Attachment A.pdf; S Mason appointment 2021 Ojai consent item.pdf; Steve Mason appointment 2021 Ojai consent item.pdf
Mayor GilmanMy name is Steve Mason and I am currently serving as one of the City of Ojai’s appointees to the Area Housing Authority (AHA) Ventura County Board of Commissioners. I was appointed by the Ojai City Council in October of 2021. That four year term is due to expire this November. I would be happy to serve another term as one of the City’s appointees to the Board. I have attached the Fact Sheet for Commission Applicants that I submitted to the City back in 2021. I am happy to provide an update to the Fact Sheet and or meet with you to discuss this appointment. The City Council consent letter, authored by then City Manager Vega, for the appointment and a transmittal of the decision to the AHA are also attached.
The AHA one of the best run agencies I have worked with in my 35 years of local government service. The AHA website is: https://www.ahacv.org . Mr. Michael Nigh, Executive Director is copied on this email and can provide you with additional information about the AHA I can be reached at or via email.
Regards
Steve Mason
C: Chief Deputy City Clerk, Mr. Montgomery
AHA, Deputy Executive Director C. Sabatini
Attachments:
13 14
From: Linda Fisher-Helton <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, August 19, 2025 4:16 PM
To: Weston Montgomery <[email protected]>; Ben Harvey <[email protected]> Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Re: Area Housing Authority Generic Commissioner Information Hi Weston and Ben,
I apologize for the delay. I have been out of the office and am just returning.
Each jurisdiction appoints two Commissioners to represent the city on the Board of Commissioners. It is a four-year term. In addition, one Resident Commissioner who lives in an eligible AHA housing complex is jointly ratified by all the jurisdictions. Commissioner Angela Bradley was re-appointed as the Resident Commissioner in June. Commissioner Bradley just happens to live in the unincorporated Ojai area but serves as the Resident Commissioner, not an Ojai Commissioner.
Currently, Steve Mason serves as a Commissioner for Ojai. His term ends in October 2025. For Commissioner Mason to continue his position on the Board, he needs to be re-appointed. Commissioner Mason has been an excellent representative during his term. The Board and AHA would welcome his reappointment. The discussion of re-appointment is between Commissioner Mason and the City.
I am happy to share with you AHA's generic information regarding Commissioner responsibilities. I do not have access to any of Ojai's recruitment information or process.
Please let me know what additional information you need.
Thank you,
Linda
Linda Fisher-Helton
Community Relations Manager
House One and You Change the World
Area Housing Authority of the County of Ventura
www.ahacv.org
805-480-9991, ext. 235
15 Generic Commission Position Description
This document is intended to guide municipalities through the recruitment process and should be changed to meet the agency’s specific needs, goals, process, and requirements for selecting a new commissioner or reappointing a current commissioner.
The Commissioner is appointed and may be sworn in by the City Council to serve a 4-year term on the Area Housing Authority (AHA) Board of Commissioners. The Board presently meets monthly on the 4th Wednesday, or as otherwise scheduled, at 3:00pm in Newbury Park.
The duties of the Commissioner are to:
• Attend and actively participate in monthly Board meetings • Maintain an open line of communication with the City regarding issues brought forth at AHA meetings
• Continue to acquire additional training/education on housing issues through AHA resources, HUD and, if approved, local and regional conferences
• Maintain a professional demeanor in all interactions with city council, AHA staff, other commissioners, and the public
• Provide support and direction to the AHA executive director In order to effectively participate as a Commissioner, the ideal candidate must live within the City limits and have:
• The ability to clearly communicate thoughts and ideas both verbally and in writing • Transportation to meetings
• The ability to understand financial, managerial, and planning/development reports • Time to attend monthly Board and Committee meetings
• Basic understanding of proper meeting etiquette as set forth in Robert’s Rules of Order • Basic understanding of the Brown Act
• Basic understanding of public agency ethical practices • Access to e-mail and the internet is required
• The ability to fill out a Statement of Economic Interest- Form 700 • Ability to complete all required training (Ethics, Workplace Harassment Prevention, etc.) This is a volunteer position which receives a monthly stipend of $50 and mileage reimbursement from the Area Housing Authority.
16
Administrative Report
TO: Honorable City Council
FROM: Ben Harvey, City Manager
MEETING DATE: October 21, 2025
SUBJECT: City Council Goals
RECOMMENDATION
Discuss and adopt the City Council goals and corresponding tactics for staff analysis, along with estimates of additional resources (monetary, human, or both) needed for each prioritized tactic.
DISCUSSION
The City Council has worked to develop its proposed goals and corresponding tactics at the following meetings this year:
February 25, 2025
March 11, 2025
April 22, 2025
May 13, 2025
June 17, 2025
August 5, 2025
Each meeting has built upon the prior and yielded results. The City Council has nine adopted goals:
1. Affordable Housing
2. Wildfire Safety Risk Mitigation
3. Arts, Culture and Recreation Funding
4. Infrastructure Maintenance and Improvement
5. Public Safety
6. Diversifying Economy/Tourism Management
7. Climate Resiliency
8. Financial Stability
9. Communication and Relationships
Most recently in the process (at the August 5 City Council meeting), the City Council completed the review and prioritization of Goals No. 1-7, selecting roughly 3 tactics per goal. Attachment A identifies the goals and tactics finalized and prioritized from that meeting. Additionally, individual Council Member tactic suggestions for Goal No. 8 17
(Financial Stability) and Goal No. 9 (Communication and Relationships) are identified on the document for Council discussion.
Next Steps
Along with the continuing prioritization of tactics, staff has returned with estimates of additional resources (monetary, human, or both) needed for each prioritized tactic to date, for Goals No. 1-7. This may also be seen in Attachment A.
It is recommended that Council continue to finalize and prioritize Goals No. 8-9 during this discussion and workshop. Staff will then return with a complete document showing goals, tactics, and fiscal impacts.
CITY COUNCIL GOALS ALIGNMENT
N/A (See Explanation Below)
This report aligns with all nine (9) City Council Goals as a result of the discussion of goal creation.
OPTIONS
1. Take no action;
2. Provide alternative direction to staff.
FISCAL IMPACT
Discussing proposed City Council goals and tactics has no fiscal impact. The Adopted Fiscal Year 25-26 budget reflects all nine goals. However, subsequent amendment(s) following budget adoption may be required to implement funding/resources for some tactics.
Prepared by: Weston Montgomery, Chief Deputy City Clerk
ATTACHMENT(S)
A. Proposed City Council Goals and Tactics
18 City Council Goals Tactics
Fiscal Year 2025-26
Goal Budgeted in
FY 2025-26
Non-Budgeted
Estimates
$ 15,000 $ 15,000
$ 100,000
$ 100,000
$ 15,000 $ 215,000
Goal Budgeted in
FY 2025-26
Non-Budgeted
Estimates
$ 10,000
$ 386,000
FY 2025-26 City Council Goals & Tactics
FY 2025-26 City Council Goals & Tactics
2 Wildfire Safety & Risk
Mitigation
2H. Create "Yes" and "No" landscaping Check List for residents. 2I. Pursue partner agreements in cooperation with providers/regional partners to further efforts that will reduce hazardous conditions and fuel sources, Wildfire Prevention Grants, include land clearing, educational outreach program regarding defensible space, and home hardening measures, and provide assessment tool(s). (2) (4) (6) (8) (10) * (Priority – L2, G1, M1, W1, R1) ** 2J. Commission a report on fire hardening measures.
(11) *
2F. Press utility providers to further harden infrastructure, ensure routine inspection, and underground when 2G. Collaborate with existing Fire and Sheriff emergency response training to include City officials and staff.
Legal (10k) and in-house staff to create MOU with
Ojai Civic Association & VCSD & VCFD- Bell Tower
usage of sound system. 5-10 hours of in house staff
to review message board
Affordable Housing
2A. Create educational outreach program regarding defensible space, and home hardening measures and provid e assessment tool(s). (4, 2)
2B. Evaluate the need for potential mutual-aid agreements with the County or other agencies 2C. Promote participation in "VC Alert" and promote programs such as "Ready, Set, Go." (3)(9) 2D. Explore feasibility and cost to implement local warning systems such as warning sirens, reverse 911, and back-up systems for communications. Promote participation in "VC Alert" and promote programs such as "Ready, Set, Go."
(3) (9) * (Priority – L1, G2, M2, W3, R2) **
2E. Evaluate Building and Planning Standards that minimize fire risk. 1 Goal # Notes
100k for 120 hrs consultant and 60 hrs legal
Goal #
Tactic
1A. Implementation requirements of the City’s Housing Element and Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) for housing program.
1B. Work with market-rate residential developers, with the goal of obtaining as many affordable housing units as possible.
1C. Investigate an inclusionary housing ordinance.
(7) *
1D. Explore alternative building methods, adjust Municipal Code as necessary. (10) *
1E. Identify opportunities to create workforce housing and potential live/work strategies. (4)(9) * (Priority – R 2, L 2, G 2, M 3, W 2) **
1F. Research establishment of a housing trust and potential budget allocation to support housing goals including rental assistance and a housing allotment. (2)(8) * (Priority – R 1, L 1, G 1, M 1, W 1) ** 1H. Research Expanding Whispering Oaks (or the equivalent) (3) *
1G. Explore creation of a Housing Commission, addressing affordable housing and homelessness. (5) * (Priority – R 3, L3, G 3, M 2) **
1I. Collaborate with Ventura Home Share on home share program (6) *
Total Goal #1
Tactic
60 Hours staff time = 15,000
Estimate, under 50k in all - absorbed by current
budget and contract amendment with Wildan
100k for 120 hrs consultant and 60 hrs legal
Notes
PSA with Ojai Valley Fire Safe Council. $386k
appropriated at 08.26.25.
RFP for fuel reduction TBD
1 9/4/2025
Attachment A
19 City Council Goals Tactics
Fiscal Year 2025-26
Goal Budgeted in
FY 2025-26
Non-Budgeted
Estimates
FY 2025-26 City Council Goals & Tactics
Goal # Tactic Notes
$ 75,000
$ 386,000 $ 85,000
Budgeted in
FY 2025-26
Non-Budgeted
Estimates
$ 100,000
$ 15,000
$ 25,000
$ 100,000 $ 40,000
Goal Budgeted in
FY 2025-26
Non-Budgeted
Estimates
$ 270,000
FY 2025-26 City Council Goals & Tactics
FY 2025-26 City Council Goals & Tactics
Tactic
Goal # Notes
2K. Explore homeowner fire hardening incentive program. (1) * (Priority – M3) **
Tactic
2L. Research initiative to create micro-grid(s) and initiative to underground utility lines. (5) * (Priority – L3, G3, R3) **
Council action at 06.24.2025 Budget Hearing
increased to 100k
Vinyl Wrap estimate
50k Outside consultant for feasibility study for microgrid. 25k for potential regional lobbyist contributions for
future rate case CPUC for underground utilities.
Total Goal #2
Presentation of ideas by consultant and staff to City
Council and County
3J. Partner with OUSD to research a performing arts center downtown. (6) * (Priority – L3) ** 3K. Consider Ojai Cultural Contribution, dedicating a portion of the TOT to non-profit applicants influencing the arts, culture, and recreation. (2) * (Priority – G2, M3, R2) ** 3G. Research establishing 4th of July drone show.
3H. Create criteria for legacy organizations for Libby Bowl to expand programming of performing arts at Libbey Bowl.
Non-Measure C TOT funds may be used for this
purpose at an amount, percentage, or level
determined by the City Council.
3I. Extend bike path to Soule Park with County partnership. (Cross-referenced in Goal 4G) (4) * (Priority – G3, W1, M1, R3, L2) **
3L. Cluff Vista Park maintenance. (Priority – W3) **
Notes
Total Goal #3
Goal #
20k for report on methods and materials - for
product choice.
250k demonstration project estimate
4A. Research Road and Hardscape Alternative Materials with potential demonstration project. (2) * (Priority – R3, L2, G2) **
4B. Continue implementation of the Pavement Management Program to maintain or increase Pavement Condition Index (PCI).
4C. Continue City Stormwater Drainage System assessment and create Master Plan. 3 Arts, Culture and
Recreation Funding.
3A. Increase funding the Arts Grant Program to support programming and services, helping to strengthen the local arts and cultural community. (2) * (Priority – G1, L1) ** 3B. Establish Cultural Arts Roundtables with local partners to gather information on programs of interest. (7) (13) *
3C. Expand promotion of existing "Walking Tour of Downtown Ojai Public Art" using Social Media and other 3D. Create Capital campaign for community pool at Soule Park. (8) * (Priority – R1) **
3E. Identify a location for a dog park in the city.
(9) *
3F. Engage Arts Commission to place a mural in Kent Hall City Council Chambers. 4D. Research approaches to provide improved pedestrian crossings at Arcade and Montgomery. (3) *
4E. Explore water conservation projects.
(5) * Infrastructure
2 9/4/2025
Attachment A
20 City Council Goals Tactics
Fiscal Year 2025-26
Goal Budgeted in
FY 2025-26
Non-Budgeted
Estimates
FY 2025-26 City Council Goals & Tactics
Goal # Tactic Notes
$ 50,000
$ 4,500,000
$ 4,820,000
Goal Budgeted in
FY 2025-26
Non-Budgeted
Estimates
$ 110,000
$ 5,000
$ 115,000
Goal
FY 2025-26 City Council Goals & Tactics
FY 2025-26 City Council Goals & Tactics Budgeted in
FY 2025-26
Non-Budgeted
Notes Estimates
4.5M this year on paving. Doubling would mean 9M.
Add'l amount would need to come from GF
Reserves
Total Goal #4
Underway internally with PW Director and CM
4I. Research advancing road paving timeline to reduce expenditures. (Priority – M3, L1, G3, W1) **
5H. Develop proactive code compliance measures.
5I. Create a traffic safety commission. (Priority – L1, R3, G1, M2, W2) ** Goal # Tactic
6A. Procure adequate resources to successfully reinstate 2nd trolley route and restore Sunday service. 6B. Enhance education and enforcement regarding STR Ordinance. 4F. Present ATP Phase II options for the City Council to consider. 4G. Explore land use agreement with the County regarding Ojai Bike Trail to include a maintenance program, directing the City Manager to enter into negotiations with County. (Cross reference with Goal 3I) (7) * (Priority – M1, R1, W3) **
4H. Parking concept review – multiple topics. (Cross-referenced in Goal 6F) (4) * (Priority – M2, R2, L3, G1, W2) **
4 Infrastructure
Maintenance and
Improvement
Goal #
5A. Identify methods to enhance pedestrian and bicyclist safety, including creating E-Bike policy, and educational campaign.
(2) (3) (6) * (Priority – L2, W1) **
5B. Create educational campaign to curtail the unsafe use of e- bikes. (3) Research traffic calming measures for concept review. (2) (6) * (Priority – R2, G2, M3, W3) **
5C. Partner with CalTrans and Ventura County for safety solutions at Highway 33 and Villanova Road. (10) *
5D. Discuss proposed program for Flock ALPR technology with the City Council. 5E. Develop/adopt speed hump policy.
(6) *
Tactic
5 Public Safety
Although not prioritized, Chief Jenkins estimates
11K for FLOCK Technology
Total Goal #5
5B and 5F are the same - 110,000k for traffic
engineer and development of speed hump policy -
future agenda item
Public Safety Commission - absorbed by internal
staff time.
5k for ordinance needed for creation of Commission
Notes
General Plan outside consultant funding for concept
review
5B and 5F are the same - 110,000k for traffic
engineer and development of speed hump policy -
future agenda item
5F. Conduct City-wide speed study with goal to establish citywide 25 MPH speed limit. (1) * (Priority – L3, R1, G3) **
5G. Conduct a crosswalk ADA accessibility audit, including potentially adding crosswalks. (8) (9) *
3 9/4/2025
Attachment A
21 City Council Goals Tactics
Fiscal Year 2025-26
Goal Budgeted in
FY 2025-26
Non-Budgeted
Estimates
FY 2025-26 City Council Goals & Tactics
Goal # Tactic Notes
$ 50,000
$ 35,000
$ 20,000
$ 85,000
Goal Budgeted in
FY 2025-26
Non-Budgeted
Estimates
$ 5,000
$ 5,000
FY 2025-26 City Council Goals & Tactics
Total Goal #6
CPA flexpath absorbed - alt materials/methods. 5k
contract add on for Willdan
CMO budget absorbed
Notes
Same as 4A
7F. Complete the Climate Action Plan and consider the intersectionality of housing/traffic/climate mitigation/economic diversification (jobs housing mismatch). 7G. Investigate options of alternative building materials. (Priority – G1, R1) ** 7H. Educate builders in energy efficient construction and incentivize through a grant program for both new construction and existing home improvements.
(Priority – L1, W2, M3) **
7I. Explore installation of EV chargers at apartment buildings. (Priority – W3) ** 7K. Flexpath electrification incentives, ordinance adoption. 7J. Explore grants for rainwater capture. (Priority – R1) ** 7L. City Council Measure C Policy.
7M. Habitat restoration and “re-wilding” – investigate programs and funding available for Council consideration. (Priority – L2, G3, W1, M1, R2) **
Tactic
7A. Develop recommendations for the replacement of City vehicles with electric or zero emissions vehicles when feasible. (Plug-in Hybrid option allowed for use)
7B. Enhance existing tree canopy and maintain health of existing City trees. 7C. Move forward with City facility electrification effort by awarding contract. 7D. Conduct education and outreach for anticipated Tree Ordinance update. 7E. Research alternative road paving materials. (Priority – L3, G1, M2) ** 7 Climate Resiliency
Staff time absorbed within budget
Outside consultant needed
6D. Commission Economic Action Plan, especially to better capitalize on visitor population. Outside consultant needed (Priority – L2, W1, G1, R1, M1) **
6E. Pursue broadband franchise agreement to support local businesses. 6F. Commission parking study (including locations, metering and enforcement) to determine needs and potential revenue options. (Cross-referenced in Goal 4H)
6G. Explore other potential revenue options, including Sales Tax increase, paid parking, bus visitation fees, nonresidential ownership tax. (Priority – L1, W3, G2, R2, M3) **
6H. Tourism communication plan.
6I. Investigate and return with report on “incubator business investments” used in City of Ventura or other agencies. (Priority – L3, W2, G3, R3, M2) **
6C. Create 2:2 City/Chamber of Commerce Committee to discuss potential professional services agreement in light of new Chamber Director.
Goal #
Diversifying
Economy/Tourism
Management
6 Stopping Point at August 5 City Council Special Meeting Total Goals #7
4 9/4/2025
Attachment A
22 City Council Goals Tactics
Fiscal Year 2025-26
Goal Budgeted in
FY 2025-26
Non-Budgeted
Estimates
FY 2025-26 City Council Goals & Tactics
Goal # Tactic Notes
Goal
Budgeted in
FY 2025-26
Non-Budgeted
Estimates
$ -
Goal Budgeted in
FY 2025-26
Non-Budgeted
Estimates
FY 2025-26 City Council Goals & Tactics
FY 2025-26 City Council Goals & Tactics
8 Financial Stability
Live additions made during May 13 Regular Meeting (Goal 8) 9 Communications and
Relationships
Total Goal #8
Council Member Rule
(Recommendations from May 13)
1. Procure public-facing interactive budget
reporting software.
9D. Implement 2:2 City/OUSD standing committee for purposes of discussing partnership areas (workforce housing, pool), areas of joint concern and mutual goals. 9E. Determine organizations/agencies/offices where better relationships would strategically benefit the City's service delivery, and assign City liaisons (City Council and/or City staff) where appropriate. 9F. Celebrate all Capital Improvement Project completions publicly through ribbon cuttings, press-releases and social media posts (when/where feasible).
9G. City Council meets weekly, with alternating weeks designated as no action taken. 9H. Bi-monthly townhalls to hear from the community (possible CM hosting schedule) 9I. Improve transparency, including closed session minutes. 9J. Research feasibility of enacting Measure M (at large voting) in November 2026.
Tactic Notes
9A. Develop and implement a Communications Strategy, including target audiences. 9B. Evaluate the City's website to improve ease of use for the public. 9C. Implement Granicus software-driven agenda management system. 8H. Develop a City Total Compensation Philosophy to ensure effective recruitment and retention efforts. 8I. Evaluate Sheriff’s Contract
8J. Research advancing paving timeline to spend less in the near term if possible Completed
Completed
8D. Complete inventory of equipment and fleet.
8E. Develop and implement a Grant Management Policy to ensure compliant grants management and reporting. 8F. Prepare the City's first Annual Comprehensive Financial Report. 8G. Conduct a facilities reserve study to determine set-aside amounts for future capital improvements.
Goal # Notes Tactic
8A. Conduct study to update existing fees, and ensure costs are being recovered. 8B. Review the existing Investment Policy with Budget Committee, present recommendations to City Council. 8C. Review allocations of City costs to determine if special revenues are being fully utilized.
Goal #
5 9/4/2025
Attachment A
23 City Council Goals Tactics
Fiscal Year 2025-26
Goal Budgeted in
FY 2025-26
Non-Budgeted
Estimates
FY 2025-26 City Council Goals & Tactics
Goal # Tactic Notes
$ -
Live additions made
during May 13 Regular
Meeting (Goal 9)
Council Member Whitman (Recommendations from May 13)
1. Creation of a Traffic Safety Commission.
2. Change of the City Council meeting start time to 5:00, with Closed Sessions (when scheduled) to take place at the end of the agenda.
3. Initiate a City Council Liaison for the County’s Municipal Advisory Committee (MAC) Mayor Pro Tem Lang (Recommendations from May 13)
1. Interactive Signage/Kiosk for Trolley/Bus Stops.
2. Consistency in signage and design a wayfinding approach.
3. PSA with the Humane Society. (Possibly Goal 3 Public Safety or Goal 5 Public Safety, to be workshopped)
4. Potential ORD for the rights of renters with animals.
5. City Arts Calendar “What’s Happening” style calendar.
Council Member Rule (Recommendations from May 13)
1. PSA with the Humane Society. (Possibly Goal 3 Public Safety or Goal 5 Public Safety, to be workshopped)
2. Evening drop-off of stray animals option.
3. Dog park for off-leash option and small dog option.
4. Consideration Ad-Hoc committees where feasible, to increase community communications. 9K. Initiate a Valley-wide advisory commission/committee. 9L. Consider modest stipend for Commissioners.
Total Goal #9
6 9/4/2025
Attachment A
24 412000.1 Page 1 of 3
Administrative Report
TO: Honorable City Council
FROM: Ben Harvey, City Manager
Taylor Anderson, Assistant City Attorney
MEETING DATE: October 21, 2025
SUBJECT: Concept Review: Public Safety Commission
RECOMMENDATION
Direct the City Manager, in consultation with the City Attorney, to return at a future meeting with a first reading of a draft ordinance establishing a Public Safety Commission.
DISCUSSION
The establishment of a Public Safety Commission would provide the City Council with structured community input on various public safety matters within the City's jurisdiction.
The Commission would complement existing public safety efforts while fostering greater community involvement in safety initiatives and policy development.
Member Requirements
Staff recommends these requirements for Commission membership:
Term Length: Members will serve four-year terms, consistent with other City Commissions.
Residency: All members must live within the Ojai Area of Interest. The City Council may also choose to require that a certain number of members be City residents specifically.
Qualifications: No special expertise is required for membership. However, all members must commit to learning about the policies and ordinances that govern public safety issues in Ojai.
Application and Selection Process: This should mirror the 3-member committee process for all other commissions. Since there is no Chair for a new Commission, the first selection committee would be comprised of the Mayor and a rotatingCouncil member, as selected by the City Clerk.
Duties and Responsibilities
Staff recommends the Commission is advisory to the City Council and is tasked with providing recommendations to the City Council regarding:
25 412000.1 Page 2 of 3
Community Programs Support: Support and encourage expansion of the neighborhood watch and Citizens Emergency Response Team (CERT) programs, and other public-facing programs and initiatives of the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office and Ventura County Fire Department.
Public Safety Awareness: Develop methods for increasing public safety awareness by recommending the most effective means of community communication and outreach.
Recognition Programs: Recommend annual commendations by City Council for private residents and public employees who make significant contributions to public safety within the community.
Transportation Infrastructure Safety: Receive community complaints/concerns, review and make recommendations regarding parking regulations, sidewalk conditions and accessibility, speed limits and enforcement, crosswalk safety and visibility, and traffic control measures to enhance pedestrian and vehicular safety. Fire Safety Initiatives: Fire hardening and fire safety related initiatives to improve community resilience and preparedness within the City’s jurisdiction.
Commission Operating Parameters and Limitations
Meeting Frequency: Meetings should be held at least once a quarter, and more frequently as needs arise.
Reporting Requirements: All Commission recommendations must be submitted to the City Council in writing and include a summary of resident testimony received on each particular recommendation.
Non-Adjudicatory Role: The Commission should be prohibited from functioning as an adjudicatory body and should have no authority to compel attendance of persons before it.
No Consideration of Specific Incidents or Employment Matters: The Commission should be prohibited from considering or attempting to resolve resident complaints about specific incidents or allegations against City employees. The commission may only address broad policy issues that may be highlighted by such complaints.
CITY COUNCIL GOALS ALIGNMENT
Goal No. 2 - Wildfire Safety and Risk Mitigation
Goal No. 5 - Public Safety
Goal No. 9 - Communication and Relationships
OPTIONS
1. Take no action.
2. Provide alternate direction.
26 412000.1 Page 3 of 3
FISCAL IMPACT: There is no fiscal impact in conducting a concept review.
Prepared by: Taylor Anderson, Assistant City Attorney and Ben Harvey, City Manager
27
Administrative Report
TO: Honorable City Council
FROM: Ben Harvey, City Manager
MEETING DATE: October 21, 2025
SUBJECT: Trolley Driver Pilot Benefit Program
RECOMMENDATION
Direct the City Manager to establish a Trolley Driver Pilot Benefit Program that authorizes employment benefits for trolley drivers with the goal of attracting and retaining trolley drivers.
DISCUSSION
The Ojai Trolley Service was established in 1989. Ojai is the only city in the County of Ventura that owns and operates its own public transportation fleet. The trolley provides daily fixed-route transportation throughout Ojai, Meiners Oaks, and Mira Monte, and is the primary transit system for those areas.
Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ojai Trolley was operating two trolley routes and employed an average of 14 drivers at 19 hours per week. Shortly after the pandemic hit, several drivers did not return to work due to COVID concerns. The shortage of drivers limited trolley service to one route. Following the pandemic, the ability to attract and retain drivers continued to be difficult. In 2022, the City Council approved an increase to wages for trolley drivers that matched wages for similar positions in the County. However, even after increasing wages, filling these positions remained difficult. In an effort to increase our competitiveness and our ability to attract new drivers, the City Council approved a Trolley Driver Incentive Program in early 2023. The incentive program includes a one-time hiring bonus of up to $1,500 paid after 12 months of service, as well as an annual longevity bonus of up to $800 paid in June of each year.
Despite these enhancements to the compensation program and ongoing recruitment efforts, recruiting drivers continues to be challenging. Following discussions with applicants, City management has discovered that barriers to accepting a trolley driver position include the lack of employment benefits and the limited number of assigned working hours. In an effort to attract and retain drivers, staff propose to implement a Trolley Driver Pilot Benefit Program (Attachment A). The proposed program aims to address these issues by offering a range of benefits designed to improve the working conditions and overall satisfaction of trolley drivers. The benefits offered will be modeled after the current benefit program offered to regular full-time City employees. The key components of the program are as follows:
Health and Wellness Benefits – health, dental, and vision insurance; access to mental health resources and counseling services.
28
Financial Incentives – Retirement planning assistance and employer-matched retirement contributions; annual salary reviews and corresponding raises based on satisfactory evaluations.
Work-Life Balance – paid time off including vacation days, sick leave and holiday pay; flexible shift arrangements.
It should be noted that the City’s contribution towards these benefits will be prorated based on the employment status of the trolley drivers. Specifically, contributions will be adjusted for half-, three-quarter-, or full-time employment. However, some benefit options may not be available to those working less than full-time due to the current plan design and contract provisions. Additionally, drivers hired to work less than 1,000 hours per fiscal year will continue to be ineligible for benefits.
Staff propose that the pilot program be implemented over a 12-month period, starting January 1, 2026. An evaluation will be conducted at the end of this period to assess the effectiveness of the program and determine whether it should be extended or modified.
The pilot benefit program is expected to: 1) increase job satisfaction and morale among trolley drivers; 2) reduce employee turnover and associated recruitment costs; 3) attract more qualified candidates; and 4) enhance the quality and reliability of trolley services for the public by increasing the trolley driver pool. If the program is a success, the City Council could consider enhancing the benefit package for other part-time staff who are assigned to work more than 1,000 hours a fiscal year (averaging 20+ hours a week).
CITY COUNCIL GOALS ALIGNMENT
Goal No. 9 - Communication and Relationships
OPTIONS
1. Take no action.
2. Provide alternate direction to staff.
FISCAL IMPACT
The estimated cost of the pilot program is $200,000. Funding is available within the Trolley Fund of the adopted Fiscal Year 25-26 budget.
Prepared by: Kathy Holman, Human Resources and Risk Manager
ATTACHMENT(S)
A. Trolley Driver Pilot Benefit Program
29 Attachment A
City of Ojai
Trolley Driver Pilot Benefit Program
Effective January 1, 2026
DRIVER STATUS
BENEFITS1 Full-Time
(36-40 hrs/wk)
¾-Time
(29-35 hrs/wk)
½-Time
(20-28 hrs/wk)
Temporary
(<1,000 hrs/yr)
CalPERS Retirement X X X X2
Classic Member Formula: 2% @ 60 – Employee contribution 7% (City pays 2% of employee contribution) New Member (PEPRA) Formula: 2% @62 – Employee contribution 7.96% 457 (b) Deferred Compensation Program X X X
City matches Employee’s elective deferral up to $200/month or 3% of base salary, whichever is greater CalPERS Health Plan X X X
City pays 100% of employee coverage and 80% of dependent coverage for full-time employees (pro-rated for ¾- & ½-time employees)
Dental – MetLife X X
City pays 100% of employee coverage for full-time employees (pro-rated for ¾-time employees); dependent coverage paid by employee
Vision – MetLife VSP Choice X X
City pays 100% of employee coverage for full-time employees (pro-rated for ¾-time employees); dependent coverage paid by employee
Flexible Spending Accounts X X X
HealthCare FSA employee contribution limit: $3,400/year Dependent Care FSA employee contribution limit: $5,000/year Life Insurance and AD&D X X
Employee Policy: $30,000 – City pays 100%
Short- & Long-Term Disability X
City pays 100% of employee coverage
Supplemental/Voluntary Insurance X X X
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) X X X X
Vacation Leave X X X
Accrual rate during 1st year of employment: .042 hours earned for every hour worked (accrual rate increases every 2 years of employment)
Sick Leave X X X X
Accrual rate for full-, ¾-, ½-time employees: .046 hours earned for every hour worked Accrual rate for temporary employees: 1 hour earned for every 30 hours worked Holidays X X X
13 paid holidays per year
1 – Benefits shall be administered in conformance with the Employee Handbook of the City of Ojai, established City practice, and applicable state and federal law. 2 – Temporary employees and employees working less than an average of 20 hours/week are enrolled in CalPERS retirement only if they are an existing member. 30 Attachment A
TROLLEY DRIVER INCENTIVE PROGRAM
New Hire Incentive – on Anniversary of Employment Incentive Amount Driver works 900 hours or more in 1st 12 months of employment $1,500 500-899 hours $750
250-499 hours $250
Less than 250 hours $0
Annual Retention Incentive (Paid in June of each year)
Driver works 500 hours or more (7/1-5/31) $800
Driver works less than 500 hours (7/1-5/31) $400
31
Administrative Report
TO: Honorable City Council
FROM: Ben Harvey, City Manager
Lindy Palmer, Public Works Director
MEETING DATE: October 21, 2025
SUBJECT: Memorandum of Agreement with Space Launch Delta 30 for Monitoring of Sonic Booms from Vandenberg Space Force
Base
RECOMMENDATION
Authorize the City Manager to enter into a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with Space Launch Delta 30 (SLD 30) for the monitoring of sonic booms from Vandenberg Space Force Base (Vandenberg).
DISCUSSION
Residents have expressed concerns regarding the frequency and intensity of sonic booms originating from Vandenberg, especially the proposed increase in launches for the proposed Falcon Launch Program. In response, Council approved and submitted their official comments to Vandenburg for the proposed Falcon Launch Program on June 24, 2025.
In its letter, Council strongly recommended that Vandenburg establish comprehensive noise monitoring protocols for sonic booms within Ojai city limits. The Council also included that Vandenberg addresses environmental impacts such as air quality, water quality, hazardous waste, risk assessment, and wildlife impacts.
In response, SLD 30 has partnered with Brigham Young University and California State University at Bakersfield to study ascent sonic booms in Santa Barbara, Ventura, and Los Angeles Counties. SLD 30 plans to place acoustic monitoring stations in counties along the central coast to capture measurements on all launches from Vandenburg. As part of this effort, City was approached by SLD30 to enter into an MOA to install sonic boom monitoring equipment throughout the City.
The proposed monitoring stations will consist of a microphone with a windscreen and weather shelter, a solar panel and the following hardware housed in a pelican case. They will also include a battery, solar controller, computer, data acquisition module, GPS clock, and cell modem. The equipment footprint with the solar panel (2ft x 3ft) is approximately 4ft x 8ft. The acoustic monitoring stations will have the ability to record 51.2 kHz or 50 kHz sampling.
32
The parties will agree on the station locations within the City. Staff has identified Libbey Park at 210 S. Signal St. and the Parks and Recreation Department at 510 Park Rd. as recommended locations for the proposed monitoring stations (both of these proposed locations are under City control, making deployment and access easier). These locations will be final once the MOA is signed.
The MOA outlines roles and responsibilities related to data sharing, monitoring protocols, and communication strategies.
Entering into the agreement with SLD 30 allows the City to proactively address sonic boom impacts, enhance transparency with the community, and strengthen interagency cooperation.
CITY COUNCIL GOALS ALIGNMENT
Goal No. 9 - Communication and Relationships
OPTIONS
1. Take no action.
2. Provide alternate direction to staff.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no anticipated direct fiscal impact to the City as a result of entering into the proposed MOU. Any future costs or resource requirements will be brought before the Council for approval as needed. The City will need to provide power and network access to the monitoring equipment at its cost.
Prepared by: Lindy Palmer, Public Works Director
ATTACHMENT(S)
A. SLS 30 Sonic Boom Monitoring Station MOA
33 MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT
BETWEEN
THE SPACE LAUNCH DELTA (SLD 30)
AND
THE CITY OF OJAI, CALIFORNIA
FOR
THE SONIC BOOM STUDY
This is a memorandum of agreement (MOA) between the SLD 30 and the City of Ojai, State of California (hereinafter referred to as "CITY"). When referred to collectively, the SLD 30 and the CITY are referred to as the “PARTIES.”
1 BACKGROUND: SLD 30 has partnered with Brigham Young University and California State University at Bakersfield to study ascent sonic booms in Santa Barbara, Ventura, and Los Angeles Counties. In support of gathering data to enhanced sonic boom characterization efforts and provide science-based parameters for the Space Launch Delta 30 commander to make launch decisions, SLD 30 plans to place sonic boom monitoring stations in counties along the central coast to capture measurements on all launches from Vandenberg Space Force Base.
2 AUTHORITIES: This agreement is being entered into in accordance with DoDI 4000.19 dated 16 Dec 2020.
3 PURPOSE AND SCOPE: The purpose of this MOA is to establish the framework for the Parties to support the deployment and maintenance of SLD 30 sonic boom monitoring stations on and around city and county owned facilities. 4 RESPONSIBILITES OF THE PARTIES:
4.1 The SLD 30 will –
4.1.1 Deploy static the acoustic monitoring station(s) to the identified city or county facility or facilities, which shall be mutually agreed upon by the PARTIES in writing.
4.1.2 Place the acoustic monitoring equipment with non-damaging methods in, on, or around the designated facility or facilities.
4.1.3 Provide a description of all the hardware to be placed at the identified facility or facilities.
4.1.4 Provide a list of personnel who will access the facilities for actions related to hardware deployment, maintenance, or removal.
4.1.5 Provide at least 24 hours’ notice before personnel access the identified locations for monitoring station deployment, maintenance, etc. actions. 34 4.2 The CITY will –
4.2.1 Provide a list of available city or county facilities for placement of acoustic monitoring stations.
4.2.2 Allow access to SLD 30 and contracted personnel to selected facility properties as requested for acoustic monitoring stations deployment, maintenance, troubleshooting, etc. actions. SLD 30 uses the selected facility properties at its own risk, and the CITY is not responsible for any loss or damage to SLD 30’s sonic boom monitoring stations or equipment.
4.2.3 Provide SLD 30 with the appropriate network access, as applicable, at the identified facility locations to the extent available at the identified facility locations.
4.2.4 Provide SLD 30 with the appropriate power access, as applicable, at the identified facility locations to the extent available at the identified facility locations.
4.2.5 Provide SLD 30 seven (7) days’ notice of any activities impacting access to the identified facilities for static monitoring station deployment, maintenance, etc. actions except in the event of emergencies where providing such advance notice is not practicable, in which case the CITY shall provide SLD 30 notice of such activities as promptly as possible. 5 PERSONNEL: Each Party is responsible for all costs of its personnel, including pay and benefits, support, and travel. Each Party is responsible for supervision and management of its personnel.
6 GENERAL PROVISIONS:
6.1 POINTS OF CONTACT: The following points of contact (POC) will be used by the Parties to communicate in the implementation of this MOA. Each Party may change its point of contact upon reasonable notice to the other Party.
6.1.1 For the SLD 30 –
6.1.1.1 Primary: Thomas Stevens
Executive Director, Space Launch Delta 30
[email protected]
805-606-0009
6.1.1.2 Alternate: Adekunbi Adewunmi
Chief, Project Integration, Space Launch Delta 30
35 [email protected]
805-606-8698
6.1.2 For the CITY –
6.1.2.1 Primary: Ben Harvey
City Manager, City of Ojai
[email protected]
805-646-5581
6.1.2.2 Alternate: Lindy Palmer
Public Works Director, City of Ojai
[email protected]
805-646-5581 ext 222
6.2 CORRESPONDENCE: All correspondence to be sent and notices to be given pursuant to this MOA will be addressed, if to SLD 30 to –
6.2.1 SLD 30/XP
Attn: S5I, Project Integration
1515 Iceland Avenue
Vandenberg SFB, CA 93437
and, if to the CITY, to –
6.2.2 City of Ojai, City Manager
401 S Ventura St
Ojai, CA 93023
6.3 REVIEW OF AGREEMENT: The Parties will conduct periodic reviews of this MOA to identify any revisions and update requirements no later than one year after the effective date. Minor changes may be made at any time by correcting the existing document or attaching a memorandum to the basic document. Changes must be coordinated and initialed by a representative of both Parties.
6.4 MODIFICATION OF AGREEMENT: This MOA may only be modified by the written agreement of the Parties, duly signed by their authorized representatives.
6.5 DISPUTES: Any disputes relating to this MOA will, subject to any applicable law, Executive order, directive, or instruction, be resolved by consultation between the Parties or in accordance with DoDI 4000.19.
6.6 TERMINATION OF AGREEMENT: This MOA may be terminated by either Party by giving at least 90 days written notice to the other Party. The MOA may also be terminated at any time upon the mutual written consent of the Parties.
6.7 TRANSFERABILITY: This Agreement is not transferable except with the written consent of the Parties.
36 6.8 ENTIRE AGREEMENT: It is expressly understood and agreed that this MOA embodies the entire agreement between the Parties regarding the MOA’s subject matter, thereby merging and superseding all prior agreements and representations by the Parties with respect to such subject matter.
6.9 EFFECTIVE DATE: This MOA takes effect beginning on the day after the last Party signs.
6.10 EXPIRATION DATE: This Agreement expires two years from the effective date.
6.11 CANCELLATION OR MODIFICATION OF PREVIOUS AGREEMENT: N/A
6.12 NO THIRD PARTY BENEFICIARIES: Nothing in this MOA, express or implied, is intended to give to, or will be construed to confer upon, any person not a party any remedy or claim under or by reason of this MOA and this MOA will be for the sole and exclusive benefit of the Parties.
6.13 SEVERABILITY: If any term, provision, or condition of this MOA is held to be invalid, void, or unenforceable by a governmental authority and such holding is not or cannot be appealed further, then such invalid, void, or unenforceable term, provision, or condition shall be deemed severed from this MOA and all remaining terms, provisions, and conditions of this MOA shall continue in full force and effect. The Parties shall endeavor in good faith to replace such invalid, void, or unenforceable term, provision, or condition with valid and enforceable terms, provisions, or conditions which achieve the purpose intended by the Parties to the greatest extent permitted by law.
6.14 OTHER FEDERAL AGENCIES: This MOA does not bind any federal agency, other than the Parties, nor waive required compliance with any law or regulation. 7 FINANCIAL DETAILS: N/A
AGREED: [Approval Authority signatures will never be alone on a blank page] For the SLD 30 – For the CITY –
__________________________________ ___________________________________ THOMAS E. STEVENS, NH-04, USSF Ben Harvey
Executive Director, Space Launch Delta 30 City Manager
________________ ________________
(Date) (Date)
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