DISTRICT 1 - LESLIE RULE
DISTRICT 2 - RACHEL LANG
DISTRICT 3 - ANDREW WHITMAN
DISTRICT 4 - KIM MANG
BEN HARVEY
CITY MANAGER
BETHANY BURGESS
CITY ATTORNEY
WESTON MONTGOMERY
CHIEF DEPUTY CITY CLERK
1. First Amendment to Agreement with Ventura County Behavioral Health for Intensive Services Coordinator for FY 2026-2027 (Operational Need) AGENDA
CITY COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING
TUESDAY, JUNE 30, 2026, 5:30 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 - June 30, 2026 - Special Meeting
ROLL CALL
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
DISCUSSION
RECOMMENDATION: Authorize the City Manager to execute the First Amendment Tuesday, June 30, 2026 Ojai City Council Agenda
1 2. Concept Review for City of Ojai Speed Hump Policy (City Council Direction)
3. Council Member Town Hall and Panel Policy (City Council Direction) to the Agreement with Ventura County Behavioral Health for continuation of Intensive Service Coordinator services for non-emergency mental health and case management for unhoused individuals citywide, to extend the term of the Agreement by one year and increase the Agreement's Not-to-Exceed Limit by $177,647, funded equally by General Fund (OTT) and ERF Grant Funds, for a new total Not-to-Exceed Limit of $371,955, in a form approved by the City Attorney.
Administrative Report - VCBH Amendment No 1
Attachment A - VCBH CONTRACT FY 2025-26
RECOMMENDATION:
1. Review the recommendations for a City of Ojai Speed Hump Policy and provide feedback to staff; and,
2. Decide whether to adopt the policy at a future meeting or have it reviewed by the Public Safety Commission.
Agenda Report - Concept Review for Speed Hump Policy
Attachment A - County of Ventura Modified Policy for Ojai Attachment B - Comparison and Listing of Speed Hump Policies from Various Municipalities RECOMMENDATION: Review and adopt the Town Hall and Panel Policy establishing guidelines for City sponsored and Council member hosted town community meetings, including the use of City resources and compliance.
Administrative Report - Council Member Town Hall and Panel Policy Attachment A - Town Hall and Panel Policy
ADJOURNMENT
Posted June 26, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. Weston Montgomery, Chief Deputy City Clerk
WRITTEN PUBLIC COMMENTS
Written public comments will be published here for public access. Please see PUBLIC COMMENT OPTIONS below for detailed instructions on how to submit.
ACCOMMODATIONS
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 Tuesday, June 30, 2026 Ojai City Council Agenda
2 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
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.
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 Tuesday, June 30, 2026 Ojai City Council Agenda
3 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, June 30, 2026 Ojai City Council Agenda
4
Administrative Report
TO: Honorable City Council
FROM: Ben Harvey, City Manager
MEETING DATE: June 30, 2026
SUBJECT: First Amendment to Agreement with Ventura County Behavioral Health for Intensive Services Coordinator for FY 2026-2027
RECOMMENDATION
Authorize the City Manager to execute the First Amendment to the Agreement with Ventura County Behavioral Health (VCBH) for continuation of Intensive Service Coordinator services for non-emergency mental health and case management for unhoused individuals citywide (Amendment No. 1), to extend the term of the Agreement by one year and increase the Agreement’s Not-To-Exceed Limit by $177,647, funded equally by General Fund (OTT) and ERF Grant Funds, for a new total Not-to-Exceed Limit of $371,955, in a form approved by the City Attorney.
DISCUSSION
The City faces ongoing challenges with homelessness and unsheltered residents. To address this, staff recommends continuing to partner with VCBH and contracting for an Intensive Service Coordinator (ISC) for the Ojai Permanent Supportive Housing Project (OPSHP).
The ISC will work with VCBH’s RISE program, which provides field-based case management for people with significant mental health needs who aren’t connected to care.
This initiative focuses on outreach, assessments, and sustained support, helping individuals access necessary services.
Including the ISC with the City's team strengthens support for unhoused individuals, especially within the OPSHP/Ojai Tent Town (OTT), and the wider community. The partnership aims to increase access to services, reduce emergency calls, and improve resident stability.
VCBH will continue to assign a full-time ISC to connect people with County resources.
Duties include:
Regular field engagement with unhoused individuals,
Trauma-informed, strengths-based case management,
Coordinating referrals to long-term care, housing, and social services, Helping OPSHP/Ojai Tent Town residents maintain housing and reach recovery goals.
5
The ISC does not provide crisis intervention or psychiatric emergency response but instead facilitates access to services and offers ongoing support. When construction of the OPSHP is complete, the ISC will help relocate Ojai Tent Town residents. This amendment supplements Help of Ojai Inc., which supplies two case managers who assist OTT participants and future OPSHP residents, supporting their transition to the new permanent facility.
The City entered into the original Agreement on May 1, 2025, to provide services for one year with up to two additional one-year extensions and for a total not-to-exceed amount of $194,308. Of the original not-to-exceed amount, $25,908 was designated for services provided in FY 2024-25 and $168,400 for FY 2025-26. Amendment No. 1 will exercise the first, one-year extension and increase the not-to-exceed amount by $177,647 for FY 2026-
27. CONCLUSION
The City is proposing VCBH Agreement Amendment No. 1 to invest in sustainable strategies addressing homelessness and mental health. By maintaining support for an Intensive Service Coordinator from the RISE program, the City will enhance outreach efforts and case management services targeting unhoused individuals with complex needs.
This collaborative approach benefits local initiatives such as OPSHP and Ojai Tent Town by providing trauma-informed care, promoting housing stability, decreasing dependence on emergency services, and encouraging recovery. Staff recommend that the City Council authorize the City Manager to execute Amendment No. 1 to the Agreement with VCBH to ensure continued coordinated and effective responses to homelessness.
COUNCIL GOALS ALIGNMENT
Goal No. 1 - Affordable Housing
OPTIONS
1. Take no action;
2. Provide alternative direction to staff.
FISCAL IMPACT
The total contract amount for FY 2026-27 for the ISC is $177,647 and will be funded equally between two sources:
$88,823.50 (50%) funded from the General Fund OTT (010-1110-0132-005) $88,823.50 (50%) funded from the ERF Grant OPSHP - Cabin Village Project (014-1110-0147-377).
This proposed VCBH Contract Amendment No 1 may be extended up to one (1) additional one (1) year term.
Prepared by: Michelle Johnson, ERF Grant Coordinator
6
ATTACHMENT(S)
B – VCBH Contract for Intensive Service Coordinator for FY 2025-26 7 8
9 10
11 12
13 14
15 16
17 18
19 20
21 22
23 24
25
Administrative Report
TO: Honorable City Council
FROM: Ben Harvey, City Manager
Lindy Palmer, Public Works Director
MEETING DATE: June 30, 2026
SUBJECT: Concept Review for City of Ojai Speed Hump Policy (City Council Direction)
RECOMMENDATION
1. Review the recommendations for a City of Ojai Speed Hump Policy and provide feedback to staff; and,
2. Decide whether to adopt the policy at a future meeting or have it reviewed by the Public Safety Commission.
DISCUSSION
In direct response to guidance from the City Council and requests from community members, staff recommend that the City Council conduct a concept review of the draft speed hump policy. This recommendation is consistent with Public Safety Tactic 5.3, which specifically calls for the creation of a speed hump policy and designates the Public Works Department as the responsible entity for its development and implementation.
Staff conducted a review of speed hump policies from municipalities throughout the County of Ventura, with particular attention to the County of Ventura's Speed Hump Policy. This policy served as the reference standard for the Public Works Department, most notably during the installation of speed humps on Drown Ave. Ojai possesses unique characteristics that distinguish it from unincorporated county areas. As a result, staff recommends modifications to the County criteria to more closely align with Ojai's specific needs and context.
The key elements of the proposed draft policy, with Ojai-specific modifications noted, are as follows:
26
1. Policies (Modified from County of Ventura Speed Hump Policy) Policy County of Ventura Standard Proposed Ojai Modifications Petition Minimum of 67% of the property
owners along the street(s) listed must
approve of the installation of these
speed humps/cushions.
Minimum of 67% of the property
owners along the street where
the devices are to be installed
as well as the residents on the
immediately adjoining street(s)
must approve of the installation
of the speed humps
Installation/Removal Additions, alterations, or removals of any or all speed humps/cushions may
be directed at any time
None
Emergency Response The County must notify Ventura
County Fire Protection District, the
Sheriff’s Department, and the
California Highway Patrol.
None
Speed Hump Costs Must be paid by the property owners
who sign the required petition
City will cover these costs
Policy Review The Transportation Department will
reassess the speed-hump/cushion
program and report to the Board of
Supervisors at approximately fiveyear intervals.
The Public Safety Commission
will review the policy as they
deem applicable or as
requested by the City Council
2. Eligibility Criteria (Modified from County of Ventura Speed Hump Policy) Criteria County of Ventura Standard Proposed Ojai Modifications Street Classification Residential and local roads only None Speed Limit Only residential or local roads of
25mph or less
None
Speed Survey More than 67 percent of motorist
exceed the 25mph speed limit
None
Street Width Must have a paved width of 40 feet or
less and no more than two traffic lanes
None
Traffic Volume The average week day traffic volume
must exceed 1,000 vehicles in a 24-
hour period.
None
Street Characteristics No speed hump/cushion may be
installed on any street with:
- Severe horizontal or vertical curves
- Inadequate sight distance to the
humps/cushions
- Excessive street downgrades
None
27
The policy also aligns with AB 43 (2021), which expanded local agencies' authority to set context-appropriate speed limits, particularly on streets with high pedestrian and cyclist activity. While AB 43 specifically addresses speed limit setting, the legislative intent of prioritizing vulnerable road users supports the adoption of physical traffic calming measures like speed humps.
All installations must comply with VCFPD Ordinance No. 34, Section D111.14.2, which requires Fire District approval of speed hump plans and compliance with Fire District standards. Speed bumps are prohibited on fire apparatus access roads.
Therefore, staff recommend Council review the recommendations for a speed hump policy and provide feedback to staff and decide whether to adopt the policy at a future meeting or have it reviewed by the Public Safety Commission.
CITY COUNCIL GOALS ALIGNMENT
Goal No. 5 - Public Safety
OPTIONS
1. Take no action;
2. Provide alternative direction to staff.
FISCAL IMPACT
The cost of speed hump installation varies depending on the type (temporary vs. permanent), material, and number of humps per street segment. Funds will be budgeted for next FY 26/27 in the Capital Improvement Fund in the amount of $100,000. Staff will return to Council with a specific budget request if demand exceeds available funds.
Prepared by: Lindy Palmer, Public Works Director
ATTACHMENT(S)
A. County of Ventura Modified Policy for City of Ojai
B. Comparison and Listing of Speed Hump Policies from Various Municipalities 28 SPEED HUMP/CUSHION GUIDELINES
CITY OF OJAI
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
29 CITY OF OJAI
SPEED HUMP/CUSHION
POLICY
Approved by the City Council on XX/XX/XXXX
POLICIES
1 Speed humps/cushions will be installed only:
If the location meets the warrants established by the City Council. Upon receipt of the required petition or when the Public Works Director or their designee initiates the proposal
-and-
The City Council approves the request
-and-
In conformance with the standard design in effect at the time of installation.
A petition for installation of speed humps/cushions must be signed by a minimum of 67% of the property owners on the street or the portion of the street affected concurring in the proposed installation. The petition must contain language to the effect that, if the petition is approved, the petitioners must deposit with the Public Works Department funds in the estimated amount of the cost of installation of the speed humps/cushions before work will be authorized.
2 Since speed humps/cushions are in the travel way, additions, alterations, or removals of any or all speed humps/cushions may be directed at any time. 3 Prior to the approval of new speed humps/cushion on any street, the Public Works Director shall notify the Ventura County Fire Protection District, the Sheriff’s Department, and the California Highway Patrol. 4 Speed-hump/cushion construction costs shall be paid by the property owners who sign the required petition. If the Public Works Director or their designee originates a proposal and the property owners concur, construction costs will be paid by the City. 5 The Public Works Department will reassess the speed- hump/cushion program and report to the City Council at approximately five-year intervals. Critical program issues that require Council action prior to the five-year review will be scheduled for policy guidance. 30 CITY OF OJAI
SPEED HUMP/CUSHION CRITERIA
Approved by the City Council on XX/XX/XXXX
CRITERIA
Satisfied
Yes No
1 The road must be either a residential road or a local road defined as follows:
a. A residential road, or “residence district,” as defined in California Vehicle Code Section 515 is that portion of a highway and the property contiguous thereto, other than a business district, (a) upon one side of which highway, within a distance of a quarter of a mile, the contiguous property fronting thereon is occupied by 13 or more separate dwelling houses or business structures, or (b) upon both sides of which highway, collectively, within a distance of a quarter of a mile, the contiguous property fronting thereon is occupied by 16 or more separate dwelling houses or business structures. A residence district may be longer than one-quarter of a mile if the above ratio of separate dwelling houses or business structures to the length of the highway exists. The “residence district” determination must be consistent with California Vehicle Code Section 240.
Buildings must be located within 75 feet of the roadway curb face or edge of pavement and they must face and gain access from the road, to be considered as “fronting” on the road.
b. A local road is defined for the purpose of this guideline as a road intended primarily to provide direct access to abutting residential buildings. Residential buildings Include separate dwelling houses, apartment buildings, or multiple dwelling houses.
2 The speed limit on the road must be 25 miles per hour or less, established in accordance with State law or Board of Supervisors’ action. 3 A speed survey must show that 67 percent of the motorists exceed the posted miles-per-hour speed limit.
4 The road must have a paved width of 40 feet or less and no more than two traffic lanes.
5 The average traffic volume must be greater than 1,000 vehicles in a 24-hour period.
6 No speed hump/cushion may be installed on any street where the Road Commissioner or his designee determines it cannot be safely installed due to:
a. Severe horizontal or vertical curves
b. Inadequate sight distance to the humps/cushions
c. Excessive street downgrades
7 No speed hump/cushion may be installed on any street where the Road Commissioner or his designee determines it will create equal or greater traffic problems by causing traffic diversion to a nearby residential or local road. 31 City of Ojai
SPEED HUMP/CUSHION APPLICATION
PUBLIC WORKS D EPARTMENT
408 South Signal Street, Ojai, CA 93023
(805) 646-5581 ext. 200
THIS SECTION TO BE COMPLETED BY APPLICANT
The undersigned requests the construction of speed humps/cushions on the following City-maintained street:
Street Name:
Between: and
I understand speed humps/cushions are still considered an experimental roadway feature and are an evolving technology. Therefore, I agree to fund the cost of construction and removal of speed humps/cushions on the street listed above. I understand a minimum of 67% of the property owners along the street(s) listed above or along the petition portion of the street(s) must approve of the installation of these speed humps/cushions. Attached to this application is a petition with the signatures of 67% of the affected property owners. I understand the Public Works Department will review the speed hump/cushion policy every five years. I understand the City may revoke this application and remove the speed humps/cushions at any time at the City’s discretion.
Applicant:
Number and Street:
City and Zip Code:
Phone:
Signature of Applicant:
Date:
THIS SECTION TO BE COMPLETED BY THE TRANSPORTATION DEPARTMENT The Public Works Department approves this application for the activities described above subject to the special conditions listed below:
Special Conditions:
Approved by:
Date:
CONTSRUCTION COMPLETION
Inspector:
Date:
When approved – copies to Applicant, Ventura County Fire Protection District, Ventura County Sheriff’s Department, California Highway Patrol, emergency medical services agencies, and others as directed by the Public Works Director, City of Ojai.
32 CI TY OF OJ AI
PUBLIC WORKS
PET IT ION OF AFF I RMAT ION FOR THE I N S T A L L A T I O N OF SPEED
HUMPS/ CUSHIONS
Before you sign this petition, know what you are signing. It is recommended that you first experience similar installations on other streets. You should also read the speed hump/cushion policies and speed hump/cushion guidelines.
We, the undersigned residents of , do hereby petition the Public Works Agency of the City of Ojai to install speed humps/cushions on the subject street between and Contact number for petition is
( ) .
SIGNATURE PRINT NAME PRINT ADDRESS
1 2
3 4
5 6
7 8
9 10
11 12
13 14
15 16
17 18
33 SPEED HUMP
E.P.
A Type "L" marker
2' <i
8'
12" thermoplastic
white markings
Center of
travel lane
B
± 50'
± 50'
2'
12"
B
Center of speed hump
8'
Reflective white
pavement legend
(thermoplastic)
per CALTRANS
Standard Plan A24E
24"
Face of curb
24"
Taper
A
PLAN
<i
12" min. clearance to
curb or berm face
24"
Taper
SECTION A-A
3.00"
2.50"
2.82"
2.29"
2.25"
1.68"
1.32" 0.0"
0.67" 0.0"
NOTES:
<i
12'-0"
SECTION B-B
6'-0"
18" Typ.
1. Speed humps may be installed only if approved by the City Council or their designee.
2. Speed hump height greater than 3" requires City Council approval for design & height.
3. A warning sign stating "Speed Hump" (W17-1) shall be placed at the approach to the first hump. Signs shall be of high intensity sheeting (30"x30"). Co-mount a W13-1 "10 MPH" (24"x24") warning sign per CALTRANS standards.
ADOPTED CITY COUNCIL : XX/XX/XXXX
REVISION
CITY OF OJAI PUBLIC WORKS DEPT
DATE: DESCRIPTION: APPROVED BY:
ROAD STANDARDS
SPEED HUMP/CUSHION
WITH CURB WITHOUT CURB
E.P.
34 SPEED CUSHION
E.P.
C Type "L" marker
2' Ii.
12" thermoplastic
white markings
Center of
travel lane
B*
3'
6.0'
3'
6.5'
± 50'
2'
12"
B*
8'
Reflective white
pavement legend
3'
8' ± 50'
Center of
speed cushion
(thermoplastic)
per CALTRANS
Standard Plan A24E
Face of curb
B* See Section B-B on
Speed Hump Road Standard
Plate E-9, sheet 1 of 4
1.0' typ.
3'
24"
6.5'
C
PLAN
Ii.
3'
12" min. clearance to
curb or berm face
4.5'
3'
2.5"
SECTION C-C
NOTES:
1. Speed cushions may be installed only if approved by the City Council or his designee.
2. A warning sign stating "Speed Hump" (W17-1) shall be placed at the approach to the first cushion. Signs shall be of high intensity sheeting (30"x30"). Co-mount a W13-1 "10 MPH" (24"x24") warning sign per CALTRANS standards.
3. For two-lane roads with a traveled way width of 24' or less, use the design shown above while omitting the two outer speed cushions.
ADOPTED BY CITY COUNCIL: XX/XX/XXX
REVISION
CITY OF OJAI PUBLIC WORKS DEPT
DATE: DESCRIPTION: APPROVED BY:
ROAD STANDARDS
SPEED HUMP/CUSHION
WITH CURB WITHOUT CURB
E.P.
35 COMPARISON OF SPEED HUMP POLCIES FROM VARIOUS MUNICIPALITIES
MUNICIPALITY POLICY CRITERIA
City of Agoura Hills Petition: Requires 60% of property owners along the street(s) must approve.
Installation: The construction, markings and warning of the hump shall comply to current standards developed by the City’s Public Works Department.
Speed Hump Cost: City covers cost.
Policy Review: The City Council is to make the final determination on all speed humps.
Street Classification: Must be at least ¼ mile long. Must be local streets.
Streets that extend from ones with existing humps may qualify, unless interrupted by an arterial road.
Speed Limit: At least 60% of traffic must exceed the 25 mph limit.
Specialized enforcement must be attempted first.
Traffic Volume: Minimum of 2,000 vehicles per day or 200 vehicles per hour during peak periods.
Street Characteristics: Streets with speed-related accidents or higher traffic volumes receive priority. Street grade must not exceed 6%, with limited exceptions up to 10% for very short segments.
City of Camarillo No Formal Policy
City of Fillmore No Formal Policy
City of Oxnard Petition: The applicant must gather signatures from at least 67% (two-thirds) of designated area residents.
Installation: Traffic Engineering staff shall prepare and maintain current design standards and installation in accordance with this policy. The final location of all speed humps will be determined by City staff in accordance with the City of Oxnard Standards.
Emergency Response: The travel speed of emergency vehicles may be impacted by speed humps and the volume of emergency vehicles traveling through an area with speed humps may be reduced.
Speed Hump Cost: Once returned, the application and petitions are reviewed, ranked, and submitted to the City Council for budget approval.
Policy Review: Traffic Engineering staff will conduct the necessary traffic engineering studies and determine the street's eligibility for speed hump installation.
Street Classification: Must be a local road or residence district, not a major/minor arterial, collector, emergency, bus, or truck route.
Speed Limit: Must have a posted speed limit of 25–30 MPH. Must have an 85th percentile speed at least 7 MPH over the posted limit, or at least 2 speed-related crashes in the past 12 months.
Speed Survey: The Traffic Engineering Division will perform a traffic study of the area in question prior to making a determination. This process can take approximately two (2) months to complete.
Street width: 44 feet or less, with no more than 2 lanes. Must not have sharp curves, steep grades (>5%), or poor visibility. Speed humps cannot be placed within 250 feet of intersections or traffic controls.
Traffic Volume: Must carry over 500 vehicles per day.
Street Characteristics: Minimum uninterrupted length: 1,000 feet (no stop signs/traffic signals).
1 36
COMPARISON OF SPEED HUMP POLCIES FROM VARIOUS MUNICIPALITIES
MUNICIPALITY POLICY CRITERIA
City of Santa Clarita Petition: A property owner must submit a Speed Cushion Study Request Form and collect signatures from at least 10% of abutting property owners to initiate evaluation. If the street meets minimum criteria, the City sends a survey to all abutting property owners. At least 67% must support installation.
Installation: If all criteria are met, the street is placed on the City’s speed cushion priority list. Installation proceeds based on available funding and City Council approval.
Emergency Response: City staff will collect traffic speed, volume, and accident data, and consult with the Sheriff’s Department, Fire Department, and Transit Division to assess the request.
Speed Hump Cost: The City is responsible for all costs associated with studying, formal surveying, and installing speed cushions and is also responsible for the ongoing maintenance of the speed cushions.
Policy Review: City staff will conduct a formal evaluation, including collecting traffic speed and volume measurements and reviewing the traffic accident history for the subject street.
Street Classification: Residential streets.
Speed Limit: Have a speed limit of 25 mph and 85% of vehicles travelling at 30 mph or greater.
Speed Survey: City staff will conduct a formal evaluation, including collecting traffic speed and volume measurements and reviewing the traffic accident history for the subject street.
Street Width: 34 to 40 feet.
Traffic Volume: Have at least 1,500 vehicles using it every day, Street Characteristics: Be at least 500 feet long, have only one lane in each direction, and not exceed an average sustained grade of six percent. 2 37
COMPARISON OF SPEED HUMP POLCIES FROM VARIOUS MUNICIPALITIES
MUNICIPALITY POLICY CRITERIA
City of Santa Paula Petition: A petition for installation of speed humps/cushions must be signed by a minimum of 67% of the property owners on the street or the portion of the street affected concurring in the proposed installation.
Installation: Since speed humps/cushions are located in the travel way, additions, alterations, or removals of any or all speed humps/cushions may be directed at any time at the City's discretion.
Emergency Response: Prior to the approval of new speed humps/cushions on any street, the City Engineer shall notify the Ventura County Fire Protection District, the City of Santa Paula Police Department, and the California Highway Patrol, and shall receive documentation of either approval or nonobjection from these agencies.
Speed Hump Cost: Petitioners must deposit with the Public Works Department funds in escrow in the estimated amount of the cost of installation of the speed humps/cushions before the work is authorized. Speedhump/cushion construction costs shall be paid by the property owners who sign the required petition.
Policy Review: The Public Works Department will reassess the speedhump/cushion program and report to the City Council at approximately fiveyear intervals. Critical program issues that require City Council action prior to the five-year review will be scheduled for policy guidance.
Street Classification: Residential streets.
Speed Limit: The speed limit on the road must be 25 miles per hour or less, established in accordance with State law or City Council action.
Speed Survey: A speed survey must show that 67 percent of the motorists exceed the 25mph speed limit.
Street Width: The road must have a paved width of 40 feet or less and no more than two traffic
lanes.
Street Characteristics: Speed humps shall not be located on sharp horizontal curves.
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COMPARISON OF SPEED HUMP POLCIES FROM VARIOUS MUNICIPALITIES
MUNICIPALITY POLICY CRITERIA
City of Thousand Oaks No Formal Policy
City of Ventura No Formal Policy
City of Westlake Village Petition: A request may be made in writing by any resident, any homeowner's association, or may be initiated by the City Council. The City will publish notice of a public hearing and have a mail notice to all property owners within 300' of the street segment involved.
Installation: Speeds humps are still considered experimental roadway features. Therefore, additions, alterations, or removals or any or all speedhumps may occur at any time.
Speed Hump Cost: If the installation is approved by the City Council and if funding is available, the City will design and install the speed humps.
Policy Review: The request will be presented to the City Council at a noticed public hearing. After receiving testimony, the City Council will decide if the requested speed humps will be installed.
Street Classification: Residential streets.
Speed Limit: The speed limit on the street must be 25 miles per hour established in accordance with State law or City Council action.
Speed Survey: A speed survey must show that more than 67% of the motorists exceed the 25 mile per hour speed limit.
Street Width: The street must have a paved width of 40 feet or less. The street must have no more than two traffic lanes.
Traffic Volume: The average traffic volume must be greater than 1,000 vehicles, total in both directions, in a 24-hour period on an average weekday.
Street Characteristics: The street segment on which speed humps are proposed must be at least 1/4 mile long. The street must generally have a longitudinal grade of 5% or less, although grades exceeding 5% may be acceptable for relatively short road segments.
County of Ventura Petition: Requires 67% of property owners along the street(s) must approve.
Installation: Additions, alterations, or removals of any or all speed humps/cushions may be directed at any time
Emergency Response: The County must notify Ventura County Fire Protection District, the Sheriff’s Department, and the California Highway Patrol.
Speed Hump Cost: Must be paid by the property owners who sign the required petition.
Policy Review: The Transportation Department will reassess the speedhump/cushion program and report to the Board of Supervisors at approximately five-year intervals.
Street Classification: Residential and local roads only.
Speed Limit: Only residential or local roads of 25mph or less.
Speed Survey: More than 67 percent of motorist exceed the 25mph speed limit.
Street Width: Must have a paved width of 40 feet or less and no more than two traffic lanes.
Traffic Volume: The average week day traffic volume must exceed 1,000 vehicles in a 24-hour period.
Street Characteristics: No speed hump/cushion may be installed on any street with: Severe horizontal or vertical curves, inadequate sight distance to the humps/cushions, excessive street downgrades.
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Administrative Report
TO: Honorable City Council
FROM: Ben Harvey, City Manager
MEETING DATE: June 30, 2026
SUBJECT: Council Member Town Hall and Panel Policy (City Council Direction)
RECOMMENDATION
Review and adopt the Town Hall and Panel Policy establishing guidelines for City sponsored and Council member hosted town community meetings, including the use of City resources and compliance.
DISCUSSION
The City Council directed staff to develop the Town Hall & Panel Policy because the City has not previously had a standardized framework governing how town halls or panel discussions are to be initiated, supported, or managed. Without a formal policy, staff and Council Members have relied on ad hoc processes, resulting in inconsistencies related to scheduling, use of City resources, noticing requirements, accessibility expectations, and legal compliance. The Council’s request for a policy reflects a desire for clarity, fairness, and predictability for both elected officials and the public. Establishing uniform procedures will help ensure transparency, avoid misunderstandings regarding City involvement, and provide a consistent experience for community members.
The policy provides this needed structure by organizing all event types such as City-sponsored town halls, independently hosted Council Member community meetings, and hybrid/co-sponsored events into a clear, navigable framework. It defines the purpose of such events as promoting civic dialogue and community education while ensuring compliance with the Brown Act, ADA accessibility standards, and restrictions on political activity when City resources are used.
The policy also outlines the governance roles of the Council, Mayor, City Manager, and City Attorney. City-sponsored events require authorization under established channels, whereas independently hosted Council Member meetings may proceed without Council approval if held under standard public rental terms and without City staffing or branding.
This distinction clarifies when City resources are appropriately used and ensures neutrality in publicly supported activities.
Operational standards are further established for scheduling, facilities, and resource allocation. The policy introduces a quarterly rotation to give each Council Member equitable access to City sponsored events and requires a minimum six-week lead time to allow staff 40
to manage event logistics, communications, and livestreaming. Kent Hall is designated as the default venue for City sponsored town halls, with independent organizers able to rent public facilities under standard terms. The policy also details staff roles, including noticing by the City Clerk, A/V support for livestreaming, communications through official City channels, and ADA accommodations.
Another significant component is Brown Act compliance. The policy clarifies when an event becomes a public meeting specifically when a majority of the City Council may attend or discuss City business and sets expectations for agenda posting, public comment, and avoidance of serial meetings. These standards help ensure legal compliance and prevent inadvertent violations.
Finally, the policy establishes rules for content neutrality, panelist selection, moderation, decorum, accessibility, safety, and required disclaimers. City-sponsored events must remain informational and balanced, with no campaigning or advocacy for or against candidates or ballot measures when City resources are used. Requirements regarding respectful conduct, recording by the public, and risk management review further ensure professional and inclusive event environments.
Overall, the Council’s request for this policy and its adoption will provide a consistent, legally compliant, and transparent framework for community engagement efforts moving forward.
CITY COUNCIL GOALS ALIGNMENT
Goal No. 9 - Communication and Relationships
OPTIONS
1. Take no action;
2. Provide alternative direction to staff.
FISCAL IMPACT
The policy formalizes the use of City resources any fiscal impact is expected to be moderate, predictable, and manageable within existing resources.
Prepared by: Norma Cervantes, Assistant to the City Manager
ATTACHMENT(S)
A. Draft Town Hall & Panel Policy
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CITY OF OJAI
TOWN HALL & PANEL POLICY
I. POLICY PURPOSE
To establish a clear, consistent framework for City Council member driven town halls and panel discussions that:
Encourage civic dialogue and community education;
Clarify when City resources are used and what support is provided; Ensure compliance with the Brown Act, ADA, and other applicable regulations; Maintain neutrality and professionalism in public forums.
II. SCOPE
This policy applies to:
CITY SPONSORED TOWN HALLS & PANEL: Events supported with City staff, facilities, livestream, and branding.
COUNCIL MEMBER HOSTED COMMUNITY MEETINGS: Independently organized meetings by one Councilmember (or more) that use publicly available spaces under standard rental terms, with no City staffing or livestream. HYBRID EVENTS: Co-sponsored events with external organizations, where City resources may or may not be used.
III. DEFINITIONS
TOWN HALL: An open public meeting primarily for community questions, updates, and dialogue.
PANEL DISCUSSION: A moderated event featuring multiple subject matter experts or stakeholders discussing a defined topic.
CITY SPONSORED: Supported by City staff, City communications channels, livestream/recording, and/or use of City logo/brand.
COUNCIL MEMBER HOSTED (INDEPENDENT): Organized by a Council member without City staff support or City branding. Venue rental and logistics mirror standard public use.
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QUORUM: Three or more Council members present (or any majority of the body), which triggers Brown Act public meeting requirements if City business is discussed.
IV. GOVERNANCE & AUTHORITY
CITY SPONSORED EVENTS REQUIRE: Council direction or City Manager authorization per Council action, with scheduling managed by staff. COUNCIL MEMBER HOSTED EVENTS DO NOT REQUIRE COUNCIL
APPROVAL: if conducted under standard public space rental conditions and without City resource involvement.
LEGAL & COMPLIANCE REVIEW: City Attorney (or designee) reviews event formats, notices, and materials as needed for Brown Act, ADA, electioneering restrictions, and risk management.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
If City resources (staff, livestream, branding, security, translation, etc.) are involved, Council should provide direction and the City Manager should have clear authorization to proceed within adopted policy parameters. This policy does not require Council approval where staff conducts an informational meeting regarding City programs and policies that is not a town hall.
V. SCHEDULING & ROTATION (CITY SPONSORED)
ROTATION: Offer each Council member a quarterly slot (or as Council determines), ensuring equitable access.
CALENDAR LEAD TIME: Minimum 6 weeks’ notice to staff for planning and promotion.
FREQUENCY & CAPACITY: Staff to propose annual calendar aligned with budget and availability of Kent Hall and streaming resources.
VI. VENUE & FACILITIES
KENT HALL: is the default location for City-Sponsored events, barring exceptions approved by the City Manager.
COUNCIL MEMBER HOSTED: These events may rent Kent Hall or other publicly available spaces under standard public rental terms and fees, with no City staffing or livestream support (unless specifically authorized).
ROOM SETUP: Standard auditorium/theater or panel setup; podium; accessible seating; and assistive listening devices where available.
VII. CITY RESOURCE SUPPORT FOR CITY SPONSORED EVENTS
STAFFING: City Manager team including City Clerk (or designee) for notice/agenda; and A/V crew for livestream..
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LIVE STREAM/RECORDING: Provided via City platforms; recordings archived in accordance with City retention schedules.
COMMUNICATIONS: Event announcement via City website, calendar, social media channels, press advisories as needed.
ACCESSIBILITY: ADA-compliant physical and digital access (ramps, seating, captioning for livestream, assistive devices, reasonable accommodations).
VIII. COUNCIL MEMBER HOSTED (INDEPENDENT) EVENTS
DISCLOSURE: Clearly state:
“This event is hosted by me, [Name], as an independent community meeting. It is not an official City of Ojai sponsored event. I am hosting this event in my individual capacity and not in my official capacity as a member of the Ojai City Council.” BRANDING: No use of City logo or official branding. Council member may use personal channels for promotion.
STAFFING/LIVESTREAM: Not provided by City. If Kent Hall is used, standard rental fees and rules apply.
COMPLIANCE: If City business may be discussed and three or more Councilmembers plan to attend—or if the topic is likely to attract a quorum of City Council—Brown Act noticing must occur (see Section IX).
IX. BROWN ACT & NOTICING
TRIGGER: If a majority (quorum) of Council may attend, or if discussion could reasonably involve City business among a majority, notice and agenda must comply with the Brown Act (e.g., posting 72 hours in advance for regular meetings; special meeting rules if applicable).
TWO OR FEWER COUNCIL MEMBERS: If only one or two Council members attend a community meeting, Brown Act is typically not triggered; however, avoid serial discussions that could create a de facto meeting.
TOPIC SENSITIVITY: If a topic is of clear interest to more than two Council members, staff should notice it as a public meeting when City resources or discussion of City business is anticipated.
REMOTE PARTICIPATION: If applicable, follow Brown Act teleconferencing requirements for City Sponsored meetings.
PUBLIC COMMENT: Provide reasonable time limits (e.g., 2–3 minutes per speaker) and a process for written comments.
NOTE: This policy is not a substitute for legal advice. The City Attorney should review event specific plans to confirm compliance.
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X. CONTENT NEUTRALITY & POLITICAL ACTIVITY
CITY SPONSORED EVENTS: Must be strictly informational or dialog based about City programs, services, and community issues; no campaigning or advocacy for/against candidates or ballot measures using City resources.
PANEL BALANCE: Aim for viewpoints balance and subject matter expertise; disclose affiliations and potential conflicts where relevant.
XI. PANEL FORMATION & MODERATION (CITY SPONSORED)
PANELIST SELECTION: Staff collaborates with the hosting Council member to propose a balanced roster (e.g., 3–5 panelists).
MODERATOR: Neutral moderator (City staff or contracted facilitator) to maintain decorum and time management.
RUN OF SHOW: Typical format: 5-min welcome; 10-min City updates; 35–45-min panel discussion; 30–40-min public Q&A; 5-min wrap-up.
MATERIALS: Fact sheets; links; slide deck; all posted online post-event.
XII. DECORUM & RULES OF ENGAGEMENT
BEHAVIOR: Respectful conduct required; no harassment, threats, discriminatory speech, or disruptions. Security or moderator may address disruptions. TIME MANAGEMENT: Facilitator enforces time limits for panel responses and public comments.
RECORDING BY PUBLIC: Allowed subject to space and safety; must not obstruct access or disrupt proceedings.
ACCESSIBILITY & INCLUSION: Priority seating for persons with disabilities; avenues for submitting questions in advance; remote participation when livestream allows.
XIII. RISK, SAFETY, AND INSURANCE
CITY SPONSORED: City risk management review; security presence determined by expected attendance and topic sensitivity.
INDEPENDENT: Organizer responsible for complying with venue rules, insurance (if required), and safety protocols.
XIV. PROMOTION & COMMUNICATIONS
CITY SPONSORED: Announced via official channels (website, social media channels), with neutral messaging and clear topic outline.
INDEPENDENT: Organizer uses personal channels; must include disclaimer that it is not City-sponsored and avoid City branding.
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XV. COSTS & FEES
CITY SPONSORED: Funded by City within approved budget (venue, staffing, A/V, interpretation). Extraordinary costs (e.g., special security) need City Manager approval. INDEPENDENT: Standard public rental fees apply; organizer bears all costs.
XVI. REQUESTS & APPROVALS (CITY SPONSORED)
SUBMISSION: Council members submit a “Town Hall/Panel Request” to the City Clerk ≥6 weeks in advance, including topic, desired date/time, format, and anticipated panelists.
REVIEW: City Manager (with Clerk and Attorney) confirms compliance, staffing, and schedule fit; Mayor may be consulted for calendar equity. APPROVAL: Included on Council agenda (if direction needed) or proceed under delegated authority per adopted policy.
XVII. TEMPLATES & REQUIRED NOTICES
CITY SPONSORED DISCLAIMER (if sensitive topics):
“This City of Ojai event focuses on community information and dialogue. Campaigning or advocacy for candidates or ballot measures is not permitted.” INDEPENDENT EVENT DISCLAIMER:
“Hosted by Name as an independent community meeting. Not an official City of Ojai event. City staff will not be providing logistics or livestream. [Name] is hosting this event in their individual capacity and not in their official capacity as a member of the Ojai City Council.””
BROWN ACT NOTICE HEADER (for City-Sponsored or noticed meetings):
“City of Ojai – Notice of Public Meeting (Town Hall/Panel).” Include date/time, location, accessibility/language access statement, agenda outline, and contact for accommodations.
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