Note: If this is a joint meeting of the City Council and Boards of Directors, the applicable entity is identified at the end of each agenda item.
CC – City Council PFA – Public Financing Authority
WWD – Waterworks District No. 8 SA – Successor Agency
IDA – Industrial Development Authority LB – Simi Valley Library Board of Trustees PFFA – Simi Valley Public Facilities Financing Authority
Materials related to an item on this Agenda submitted to the CC, WWD, IDA, PFFA, PFA, SA, and/or LB after distribution of the agenda packet are available for public inspection in the City Clerk’s Office at 2929 Tapo Canyon Road, Simi Valley, CA during normal business hours.
AGENDA ITEM NO.
Consent (1)
MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
VENTURA COUNTY WATERWORKS DISTRICT NO. 8
SIMI VALLEY LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Simi Valley, California April 21, 2025
CALLED TO ORDER: 5:30 p.m. (CLOSED SESSION)
ROLL CALL: Present: Council Members Ayala, Rhodes, Litster, Mayor Pro Tem Judge, and Mayor Cavanaugh
Remote: None
Absent: None
a. PUBLIC STATEMENTS: Having no public statements, the City Council adjourned to Closed Session at 5:32 p.m.
b. CLOSED SESSION:
(1) Conference with Labor Negotiator: (CC)
Pursuant to Government Code Section 54957.6(a):
City’s Designated Representative: Assistant City Manager Luis Garibay Employee Organization: Service Employees International Union (SEIU),
City’s Designated Representative: Assistant City Manager Luis Garibay Employee Organization: Simi Valley Police Managers Association
City’s Designated Representative: Assistant City Manager Luis Garibay Employee Organization: Simi Valley Police Officers Association
City’s Designated Representative: Assistant City Manager Luis Garibay Employee Organization: Simi Valley Engineers Association
City’s Designated Representative: Assistant City Manager Luis Garibay Employee Organization: Unrepresented Employees: Accounting Projects Analyst, Accounting Specialist, Accounting Supervisor, Administrative Assistant, Administrative Officer, Administrative Services Director, Assistant City Attorney, Assistant City Manager, Assistant Community Services Manager, Assistant Planner, Assistant Public Works Director, Assistant to the Minutes April 21, 2025
City Manager, Assistant Waterworks Services Manager, Associate Planner, Budget & Administrative Officer, Budget Officer, Chief of Police, City Attorney, City Clerk, City Manager, Code Compliance Manager, Communications Systems Coordinator, Community Servic es Director, Community Services Manager, Crime Analysis and Prevention Manager, Crime Analyst, Cultural Arts Center Technical Coordinator, Customer Services Manager, Customer Services Supervisor, Deputy Administrative Services Director (Budget & Purchasing), Deputy Administrative Services Director (Fiscal Services), Deputy Administrative Services Director (Information Services), Deputy City Attorney, Deputy City Clerk, Deputy City Manager, Deputy Community Services Director, Deputy Director/Police Administr ation & Communication, Deputy Environmental Services Director, Deputy Environmental Services Director (Building Official), Deputy Environmental Services Director (City Planner), Deputy Human Resources Director, Deputy Public Works Director (Administration), Deputy Public Works Director (Environmental Compliance), Deputy Public Works Director (Maintenance Services), Deputy Public Works Director (Sanitation Services), Deputy Public Works Director (Transit), Deputy Public Works Director (Waterworks Services), Digital & Print Media Coordinator, Emergency Services Coordinator, Emergency Services Manager, Enterprise Systems Analyst, Environmental Compliance Program Analyst, Environmental Compliance Program Coordinator, Environmental Services Director, Executive As sistant, Fiscal Services Supervisor, Geographic Information System (GIS) Coordinator, Home Rehabilitation Coordinator, Human Resources Analyst, Information Services Analyst I, Information Services Analyst II, Investigative Assistant, Laboratory Chemist, Landscape Architect, Legal Administrative Assistant, Maintenance Superintendent, Maintenance Supervisor, Management Analyst, Management Assistant, Payroll Coordinator, Permit Services Supervisor, Plant Maintenance Supervisor, Plant Support Systems Manager, P olice Communications & Records Manager, Police Maintenance Supervisor, Police Records Manager, Police Records Supervisor, Police Services Supervisor, Principal Information Services Analyst, Principal Planner/Zoning Administrator, Public Works Director, Ris k Manager, Senior Accountant, Senior Administrative Officer, Senior Assistant City Attorney, Senior Code Compliance Officer, Senior Crime Analyst, Senior Human Resources Analyst, Senior Information Services Analyst, Senior Management Analyst, Senior Planner, Staff Accountant, Supervising Building Inspector, Supervising Public Works Inspector, Transit Finance Manager, Transit Operations Manager, Transit Supervisor, Wastewater Collection System Supervisor, Water Distribution Supervisor, Water Field Services S upervisor, Water Operations Supervisor, Workers’ Compensation Adjuster I, Workers’ Compensation Adjuster II, Workers’ Compensation Manager, Workers’ Compensation Supervisor
Minutes April 21, 2025
(2) Conference with Legal Counsel - Existing Litigation: (CC) Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1):
Number of Matters: One (1)
Name of Case: Kiely v. City of Simi Valley, et al
Case No.: 2024CUOEO26666
(3) Conference with Legal Counsel – Anticipated Litigation: (CC) Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(2):
Number of Matters: Two (2)
Facts and circumstances exist that might result in litigation against the local agency but which the local agency believes are not yet known to a potential plaintiff or plaintiffs (Government Code section 54956.9 (e)(1))
Hanchett Claim
CALLED TO ORDER: 6:30 p.m. (OPEN SESSION)
CLOSED SESSION REPORTS: City Attorney Ford stated there was no reportable action as a result of the Closed Session meeting held on April 21, 2025 at 5:30 p.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Led by Phil
ROLL CALL: Present: Council Members/Directors/Trustees Ayala, Rhodes, Litster, Mayor Pro Tem/Vice Chair/President Pro Tem
Judge, and Mayor/Chair/President Cavanaugh
Remote: None
Absent: None
1. AGENDA REVIEW: City Manager Argabrite stated Consent 6 has a supplemental report.
1A. ACTION: Council Member/Director /Trustee Ayala moved that all resolutions and ordinances presented tonight be read in title only and all further reading be waived.
Council Member/Director/Trustee Rhodes seconded the motion. (CC/WWD/LB)
ROLL CALL:
AYES: Council Members/Directors/Trustees Ayala, Rhodes, Litster, Mayor Pro Tem/Vice Chair/President Pro Tem Judge, and
Mayor/Chair/President Cavanaugh
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Minutes April 21, 2025
1B. It is the policy of the City Council that upon reaching 11:30 p.m., the City Council will not address any new agenda items. Should the City Council continue to address agenda items past 12:00 midnight, the following motion is in order:
MOTION: Move that the City Council meeting tonight may extend beyond the midnight deadline to conclude the agenda (Section 2-1.106 SVMC).
1C. DECLARATION OF CONFLICT: None
1D. CERTIFICATES/HONORARY RESOLUTIONS/PROCLAMATIONS:
(1) Presentation of Proclamation declaring April 22, 2025, as Earth Day (CC)
Public Works Director Ron Fuchiwaki read, and Mayor Cavanaugh presented Deputy Public Works Director Wonda Moyer with a proclamation declaring April 22, 2025, as Earth Day.
(2) Presentation of a Proclamation commemorating May 1, 2025, as a Day of Prayer (CC)
Senior Management Analyst Heidi DiNardo read, and Mayor Cavanaugh presented Pastor Brian Fox of NewHeart Church, with a proclamation declaring May 1, 2025 as Day of Prayer.
(3) Presentation of Certificates of Completion to the Spring CERT Graduating Class (CC)
Emergency Services Coordinator Shannon Johnson and Mayor Cavanaugh presented Certificates of Completion to the following Spring CERT Graduating class, Tristan Humes, Kara Jones, September Jones -Pasko, Esme Landman, Lurii Ledin , David Mullen, Michael Napal, Kate O’Brien, Archana Rajak, Naresh Rajak, Michael Shaw, David Vasquez, and Carol Witt.
(4) Presentation of Proclamation declaring the month of April 2025 as Earthquake Preparedness Month (CC)
Emergency Services Coordinator Shannon Johnson read, and Mayor Cavanaugh presented Disaster Services Worker Volunteers, Melissa Heinemann, and Kirk Heinemann with a proclamation declaring April 2025 as Earthquake Preparedness Month.
2. PUBLIC STATEMENTS ON APPOINTMENTS, SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS AND INFORMATIONAL REPORTS: None
3. APPOINTMENTS/SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS AND INFORMATIONAL REPORTS:
Minutes April 21, 2025
3A. APPOINTMENTS:
(1) Selection of two City Council members to conduct Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center Foundation Board interviews (Garibay) (CC)
ACTION: Council Member /Director/Trustee Ayala moved that the Council authorize and the Mayor appoint City Council Members Litster and Rhodes interview applicants and nominate three prospective Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center Foundation Board members for terms beginning July 1, 2025, with one term ending on June 30, 2026, and two terms ending on June 30, 2028 . Mayor Pro Tem/Vice Chair/President Pro Tem Judge seconded the motion.
ROLL CALL:
AYES: Council Members/Directors/Trustees Ayala, Rhodes, Litster, Mayor Pro Tem/Vice Chair/President Pro Tem Judge, and
Mayor/Chair/President Cavanaugh
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
3B. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS:
(1) Presentation by Erik Sternad, Executive Director of Interface Children and Family Services to give an update on the programs and activities of the organization and what is being provided to the Cities in Ventura County (CC)
Executive Director of Interface Children and Family Services Erik Sternad provided City Council with a presentation on the programs and activities of the organization.
3C. INFORMATIONAL REPORTS:
(1) Informational presentation by Youth Council member Lakshmi Julakanti (CC)
Youth Council Member Lakshmi Julakanti provided an informational report on behalf of the Youth Council.
4. PUBLIC STATEMENTS ON ALL ITEMS OTHER THAN PUBLIC HEARINGS, APPOINTMENTS AND INFORMATIONAL REPORTS:
The following submitted a speaker card and spoke:
1. Suresh Bammi, Simi Valley, CA, commented about the condition of the roads, and increased sewage rates.
2. Melissa Baldridge, Camarillo, CA, spoke about Cougar Conservancy, an organization that promotes coexistence between humans and cougars.
Minutes April 21, 2025
3. Greg Litster, Simi Valley, CA, spoke in recognition of his and Council Member Litster’s 37th Wedding Anniversary.
4A. CITY COUNCIL/BOARD MEMBER/SPECIAL DISTRICT COMMENTS REGARDING PUBLIC STATEMENTS: None
5. PUBLIC HEARINGS:
5A. A public hearing to adopt a resolution authorizing the City of Simi Valley to join the California Statewide Communities Development Authority and participate in the Statewide Community Infrastructure Program (Garibay) (CC)
Resolution No. 2025- 09 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF SIMI VALLEY AUTHORIZING THE AGENCY TO JOIN THE STATEWIDE COMMUNITY INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAM; AUTHORIZING THE CALIFORNIA
STATEWIDE COMMUNITIES DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY TO ACCEPT
APPLICATIONS FROM PROPERTY OWNERS, CONDUCT SPECIAL
ASSESSMENT PROCEEDINGS AND LEVY ASSESSMENTS AND SPECIAL TAXES
AND TO FORM ASSESSMENT DISTRICTS AND COMMUNITY FACILITIES DISTRICTS WITHIN THE TERRITORY OF THE CITY OF SIMI VALLEY;
EMBODYING A JOINT COMMUNITY FACILITIES AGREEMENT SETTING FORTH
THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF COMMUNITY FACILITIES DISTRICT FINANCINGS; APPROVING FORM OF ACQUISITION AGREEMENT FOR USE WHEN APPLICABLE; AND AUTHORIZING RELATED ACTIONS
There being no in person public testimony Mayor Cavanaugh opened and closed the public portion of the hearing at 7:47 p.m.
The following sent in a Public Comment via email prior to the City Council Meeting
1. Theresa Jordan, Simi Valley, CA, opposed.
ACTION: Council Member/Director/Trustee Rhodes moved that the City Council adopt Resolution No. 2025- 09, authorizing the City of Simi Valley to join the California Statewide Communities Development Authority and participate in the Statewide Community Infrastructure Program. Mayor Pro Tem/Vice Chair/President Pro Tem Judge seconded the motion.
ROLL CALL:
AYES: Council Members/Directors/Trustees Ayala, Rhodes, Litster, Mayor Pro Tem/Vice Chair/President Pro Tem Judge, and
Mayor/Chair/President Cavanaugh
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Minutes April 21, 2025
5B. A public hearing to consider the Annual Position Vacancy Report in compliance with Assembly Bill 2561 (Gutierres) (CC)
There being no in person public testimony Mayor Cavanaugh opened and closed the public portion of the hearing at 8:11 p.m.
ACTION: Council Member/Director/Trustee Litster moved to receive and file the City’s Annual Position Vacancies Report . Mayor Pro Tem/Vice Chair/President Pro Tem Judge seconded the motion.
ROLL CALL:
AYES: Council Members/Directors/Trustees Ayala, Rhodes, Litster, Mayor Pro Tem/Vice Chair/President Pro Tem Judge, and
Mayor/Chair/President Cavanaugh
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
6. CONTINUED PUBLIC STATEMENTS ON ALL ITEMS OTHER THAN PUBLIC HEARINGS, APPOINTMENTS AND INFORMATIONAL REPORTS: None
7. CONSENT CALENDAR:
(1) Approval of the Monthly Investment Report for the month ended March 31, 2025 (Johnson) (CC)
ACTION: Approved request.
(2) Adoption of an updated and revised Sewer System Management Plan (SSMP) (Fuchiwaki) (CC)
ACTION: Approved request.
(3) Approval of the use of Kinetic Breaching Tools as required by Assembly Bill 481; authorization to accept a donation from the Simi Valley Police Foundation; for the City Manager to sign request document for an amount not to exceed $30,000 for the purchase of two Kinetic Breaching Tools; authorization to waive the competitive bid process; and approval of a Supplemental Budget Request for Fund 100 (Shorts) (CC)
ACTION: Approved request.
(4) Award of contract for professional services for a Pavement Management Program Update, RFP No. PW 24-14 (Fuchiwaki) (CC)
ACTION: Awarded contract to Fugro USA Land, Inc.
Minutes April 21, 2025
(5) Award contract to Toro Enterprises, Inc., for the construction of the FY 2023-24 Annual Major Streets Rehabilitation Program: Erringer Road (Alamo Street to Cochran Street), CP60000018, Specification No. SV 24-17 (Fuchiwaki) (CC)
ACTION: Awarded contract to Toro Enterprises, Inc.
(6) Approve contract with Tanko Streetlighting, Inc. for street light maintenance services (Fuchiwaki) (CC)
ACTION: Approved contract with Tank Streetlighting, Inc.
(7) Award contract for the construction of the Curb, Gutter, and Sidewalk Replacement Project, CP6000030, Specification No. SV 25-11 (Fuchiwaki) (CC)
ACTION: Awarded contract to FS Contractors, Inc.
ACTION: Council Member/Director/Trustee Rhodes moved to approve Consen t Calendar Items 1 through 7. Mayor Pro Tem/Vice Chair/President Pro Tem Judge seconded the motion.
ROLL CALL:
AYES: Council Members/Directors/Trustees Ayala, Rhodes, Litster, Mayor Pro Tem/Vice Chair/President Pro Tem Judge, and
Mayor/Chair/President Cavanaugh
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
8. CONTINUED BUSINESS: None
9. NEW BUSINESS:
9A. Approval and adoption of the 2025 Legislative Platform (Sumagaysay) (CC/WWD/LB)
ACTION: Mayor Pro Tem/Vice Chair/President Pro Tem Judge move to approve and adopt the attached 2025 Legislative Platform as amended, moving Sober Living under the Housing Section included under the housing section and add neighborhood wording to community safety. Council Member/Director/Trustee Litster seconded the motion.
ROLL CALL:
AYES: Council Members/Directors/Trustees Ayala, Rhodes, Litster, Mayor Pro Tem/Vice Chair/President Pro Tem Judge, and
Mayor/Chair/President Cavanaugh
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Minutes April 21, 2025
10. REPORTS:
10A. City Council/Board Member/Trustees/Special District Member Reports:
Council Member Ayala reported attending a tour of the Rancho Simi Recreation and Park District (RSRPD), a tour of the Administrative Services Department, attended the Girl Scouts Brownilympics, and volunteered at the Vista Elementary School Scholastic Book Fair. He attended a tour of the Samaritan Center, the Youth Council meeting, the Youth Employment Services (YES) Advisory Board meeting, and the ADA Paratransit Advisory Committe e meeting. Council Member Ayala also attended the Youth Council Multi Cultural Fair at Santa Susana High School and was a speaker at the Simi Valley Police Department Citizens Academy.
Council Member Rhodes reported attending the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) Scholarship Committee meeting, the Simi Valley Chamber of Commerce Economic Development Committee meeting (ZOOM), and the Simi Valley Royal High School Air Force Junior ROTC Pass in Review. He atte nded the Rotary Cleanup Day in Simi Valley, the Ride On Spring Splendor fundraiser in Santa Rosa Valley, and a Rotary volunteer event that provided personal items to the fire cleanup reservists operating out of an encampment in Malibu. Council Member Rhodes attended the SCAG Housing meeting (ZOOM), the Simi Valley Arts Commission meeting, and the Rotary Club Paul Harris Awards event.
Council Member Litster commented about taking a City bus ride and noted the bus stops do not have bus times posted. She reported she attended Neighborhood Council #2 meeting, the Regal Residence Grand Opening, and the Interface 211 Children and Family Services 20
th anniversary celebration. She attended the City of Moorpark State of the Union, toured the Ventura County Jail with the Simi Valley Police Academy, attended the Royal High School Air Force Junior ROTC Pass in Review, and the Simi Valley Arts Commission mee ting. Council Member Litster attended the Rotary Club Paul Harris Awards event, the 2025 Water Symposium, the Simi Valley Education Foundation Teacher of the Month Award presentation, and the Simi Valley Police Department Citizens Academy.
Mayor Pro Tem Judge reported he attended the Ventura County Tax Foundation State of the County, and he spoke about Assembly Bill 1421, a mileage tax on vehicles.
Mayor Cavanaugh commented she was unable to attend many events due to a family health emergency, however, attended the Sheriffs State of the Law breakfast event in Camarillo.
10B. City Council/Board Member/Special District Member Requests for Future City Council Agenda Items: None
Minutes April 21, 2025
ADJOURNMENT: Mayor/Chair/President Cavanaugh adjourned the meeting at 8:41 p.m. in memory of Carol Martin and Pope Francis, to the meeting of May 5 , 202 5 at 6:30 p.m. There being no objections, the motion carried through acclamation.
_________________________________
Dee Dee Cavanaugh, Mayor of the City of
Simi Valley, California, Chair of the
Ventura County Waterworks District No. 8,
and President of the Simi Valley Library
Board of Trustees
________________________________
Lucy Blanco CMC, City Clerk/District Secretary/
Board Secretary
Note: If this is a joint meeting of the City Council and Boards of Directors, the applicable entity is identified at the end of eac h agenda item.
CC – City Council PFA – Public Financing Authority
WWD – Waterworks District No. 8 SA – Successor Agency
IDA – Industrial Development Authority LB – Simi Valley Library Board of Trustees PFFA – Simi Valley Public Facilities Financing Authority
Materials related to an item on this Agenda submitted to the CC, WWD, IDA, PFFA, PFA, SA, and/or LB after distribution of the agenda packet are available for public inspection in the City Clerk’s Office at 2929 Tapo Canyon Road, Simi Valley, CA during normal business hours.
MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL
Simi Valley, California May 5, 2025
CALLED TO ORDER: 5:30 p.m. (CLOSED SESSION)
ROLL CALL: Present: Council Members Ayala, Rhodes, Litster, Mayor Pro Tem Judge, and Mayor Cavanaugh
Remote: None
Absent: None
a. PUBLIC STATEMENTS: Having no public statements, the City Council adjourned to Closed Session at 5:31 p.m.
b. CLOSED SESSION:
(1) Conference with Legal Counsel - Existing Litigation: (CC) Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(2):
Number of Matters: One (1)
Facts and circumstances exist that might result in litigation against the local agency but which the local agency believes are not yet known to a potential plaintiff or plaintiffs (Government Code section 54956.9 (e)(1))
(2) Conference with Labor Negotiator – Labor Negotiations: (CC) Pursuant to Government Code Section 54957.6(a):
City’s Designated Representative: Assistant City Manager Luis Garibay Employee Organization: Service Employees International Union (SEIU)
City’s Designated Representative: Assistant City Manager Luis Garibay Employee Organization: Simi Valley Police Managers Association
City’s Designated Representative: Assistant City Manager Luis Garibay Employee Organization: Simi Valley Police Officers Association
City’s Designated Representative: Assistant City Manager Luis Garibay Employee Organization: Simi Valley Engineers Association
Minutes May 5, 2025
City’s Designated Representative: Assistant City Manager Luis Garibay Employee Organization: Unrepresented Employees: Accounting Projects Analyst, Accounting Specialist, Accounting Supervisor, Administrative Assistant, Administrative Officer, Administrative Services Director, Assistant City Attorney, Assistant City Manager, Assistant Community Services Manager, Assistant Planner, Assistant Public Works Director, Assistant to the City Manager, Assistant Waterworks Services Manager, Associate Planner, Budget & Administrative Officer, Budget Officer, Chief of Police, City Attorney, City Clerk, City Manager, Code Compliance Manager, Code Compliance Officer, Communications Systems Coordinator, Community Services Director, Community Services Manager, Crime Analysis and Prevention Manager, Crime Analyst, Cultural Arts Center Technical Coordinator, Customer Services Manager, Customer Services Supervisor, Deputy A dministrative Services Director (Budget & Purchasing), Deputy Administrative Services Director (Fiscal Services), Deputy Administrative Services Director (Information Services), Deputy City Attorney, Deputy City Clerk, Deputy City Manager, Deputy Community Services Director, Deputy Director/Police Administration & Communication, Deputy Environmental Services Director, Deputy Environmental Services Director (Building Official), Deputy Environmental Services Director (City Planner), Deputy Human Resources Director, Deputy Public Works Director (Administration), Deputy Public Works Director (Environmental Compliance), Deputy Public Works Director (Maintenance Services), Deputy Public Works Director (Sanitation Services), Deputy Public Works Director (Transit), Deputy Public Works Director (Waterworks Services), Digital & Print Media Coordinator, Emergency Services Coordinator, Emergency Services Manager, Enterprise Systems Analyst, Environmental Compliance Program Analyst, Environmental Compliance Program Coordinator, Environmental Services Director, Executive Assistant, Fiscal Services Supervisor, Geographic Information System (GIS) Coordinator, Home Rehabilitation Coordinator, Human Resources Analyst, Information Services Analyst I, Information Services Analyst II, Investigative Assistant, Laboratory Chemist, Landscape Architect, Legal Administrative Assistant, Maintenance Superintendent, Maintenance Supervisor, Management Analyst, Management Assistant, Payroll Coordinator, Permit Services Supervisor, Plant Maintenance Supervisor, Plant Support Systems Manager, Police Communications & Records Manager, Police Maintenance Supervisor, Police Records Manager, Police Records Supervisor, P olice Services Supervisor, Principal Information Services Analyst, Principal Planner/Zoning Administrator, Public Works Director, Risk Manager, Senior Accountant, Senior Administrative Officer, Senior Assistant City Attorney, Senior Code Compliance Officer, Senior Crime Analyst, Senior Human Resources Analyst, Senior Information Services Analyst, Senior Management Analyst, Senior Planner, Staff Accountant, Supervising Building Inspector, Supervising Public Works Inspector, Transit Finance Manager, Transit O perations Manager, Transit Supervisor, Wastewater Collection System Supervisor, Water Distribution Supervisor, Water Field Services Supervisor, Water Operations Supervisor, Workers’ Compensation Adjuster I, Workers’ Compensation Adjuster II, Workers’ Compensation Manager, Workers’ Compensation Supervisor
Minutes May 5, 2025
CALLED TO ORDER: 6:30 p.m. (OPEN SESSION)
CLOSED SESSION REPORTS: Senior City Attorney Stephanie Gutierrez stated there was no reportable action as a result of the Closed Session meeting held on May 5, 2025, at 5:30 p.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Led by Connor Hules
ROLL CALL: Present: Council Members Ayala, Rhodes, Litster, Mayor Pro Tem Judge, and Mayor Cavanaugh
Remote: None
Absent: None
1. AGENDA REVIEW: City Manager Samantha Argabrite stated Public Hearing Item 5C has a supplemental report.
1A. ACTION: Council Member Ayala moved that all resolutions and ordinances presented tonight be read in title only and all further reading be waived. Council Member Rhodes seconded the motion. (CC)
ROLL CALL:
AYES: Council Members Ayala, Rhodes, Litster, Mayor Pro Tem Judge, and Mayor Cavanaugh
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
1B. It is the policy of the City Council that upon reaching 11:30 p.m., the City Council will not address any new agenda items. Should the City Council continue to address agenda items past 12:00 midnight, the following motion is in order:
MOTION: Move that the City Council meeting tonight may extend beyond the midnight deadline to conclude the agenda (Section 2-1.106 SVMC).
1C. DECLARATION OF CONFLICT: None
1D. CERTIFICATES/HONORARY RESOLUTIONS/PROCLAMATIONS:
(1) Presentation of a Proclamation declaring the month of May 2025 as Older Americans Month (CC)
Office Specialist II Candace Gray read, and Mayor Cavanaugh presented Simi Valley Council On Aging Executive Board Chair Bill Oliver with a Proclamation declaring the month of May 2025 as Older Americans Month.
(2) Presentation of a Proclamation declaring the month of May 2025 as Mental Health Awareness Month (CC)
Minutes May 5, 2025
Community Services Coordinator Ryan Fowler, Youth Council Teen Wellness Chair Tanvi Ijju and Mayor Cavanaugh presented Prevention Data Management Coordinator for Ventura County Behavioral Health Bradley Friday, Director of Ventura County Behavioral Health Dr. Loretta Denering, and Youth Council Member Prithika Rijjith with a Proclamation declaring the month of May 2025 as Mental Health Awareness Month.
(3) Presentation of a Proclamation declaring May 15, 2025 as Peace Officers Memorial Day (CC)
Police Chief Shorts read, and Mayor Cavanaugh presented Police Sergeant Vincent Allegra with a Proclamation declaring May 15, 2025 as Peace Officers Memorial Day.
(4) Presentation of Employee of the Month to Kenneth Gonce (CC)
Public Works Director Ron Fuchiwaki read, and Mayor Cavanaugh presented Kenneth Gonce with Employee of the Month.
2. PUBLIC STATEMENTS ON APPOINTMENTS, SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS AND INFORMATIONAL REPORTS: None
3. APPOINTMENTS/SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS AND INFORMATIONAL REPORTS:
3A. APPOINTMENTS:
(1) Selection of one City Council member to serve on the interview and nomination panel for returning Youth Council members (Garibay) (CC)
ACTION: Council Member Rhodes moved that the Council authorize and the Mayor appoint Mayor Pro Tem Judge to serve on the interview and nomination panel for prospective returning Youth Council members to fill up to nine positions on the Youth Council. Council Member Litster seconded the motion.
ROLL CALL:
AYES: Council Members Ayala, Rhodes, Litster, Mayor Pro Tem Judge, and Mayor Cavanaugh
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
3B. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS:
(1) Presentation by Linda Narciso, Audit Partner with Vasquez & Company LLP, regarding the annual audits completed for Fiscal Year 2023-24 (CC)
Minutes May 5, 2025
Audit Partner Linda Narciso presented City Council with a presentation regarding the annual audits completed for Fiscal Year 2023-24.
3C. INFORMATIONAL REPORTS: None
4. PUBLIC STATEMENTS ON ALL ITEMS OTHER THAN PUBLIC HEARINGS, APPOINTMENTS AND INFORMATIONAL REPORTS:
The following submitted a speaker card and spoke:
1. Jeni Knack, Parents Against SSFL, Simi Valley, CA, asked City Council to partner with the Los Angeles Fire Community Coalition and in support of funding for an air monitors.
2. Mike Shaw, Simi Valley, CA, commented about the possibility of toxic waste in the Simi Valley landfill from the Los Angeles fires.
3. Johnnie Thompson, Simi Valley, CA, spoke about a problem he is having with rats in his neighborhood and asked for City Council’s assistance.
4. Jennifer Frank (no address given), Friends of the Simi Valley Library Board member, spoke about the need for renovations at the Simi Valley Library.
5. Doug Landon, Board of Directors Samaritan Center, Simi Valley, CA, announced the Samaritan Center is having a fundraiser on May 17
th.
6. Mel Espinoza, Moorpark, CA, spoke in support of Parents Against Santa Susana Field Lab (SSFL), the Los Angeles Fire Community Coalition, and funding for air monitors.
4A. CITY COUNCIL/BOARD MEMBER/SPECIAL DISTRICT COMMENTS REGARDING PUBLIC STATEMENTS:
Council Member Rhodes commented on the concerns raised about the landfill and asked if City Council can request a public presentation on the topic. He asked the City Manager to address the concern about rodents and abatement, he agreed that the library needs a renovation, and he spoke in support of the Samaritan Center and their upcoming fundraiser.
City Manager Samantha Argabrite stated that staff has been in contact with Mr.
Thompson, and that Code Enforcement staff has been out to the site. She stated that the issue is a civil matter at this point.
Council Member Litster commented about the requests for air monitoring and spoke about what she observed on a recent tour of the landfill. She acknowledged Mr.
Thompson’s concern about rodents, and she spoke about the need for a library renovation, stating the building is owned by the County and there will be ongoing Minutes May 5, 2025
conversations. Council Member Litster spoke in support of the Samaritan Center and their upcoming fundraiser.
Mayor Cavanaugh thanked the public for attending the meeting and speaking. She addressed Jeni Knack about air monitoring, she acknowledged Mr. Thompson’s concern about rodents, and she commented that City Council is looking at options for a renovation of the l ibrary. Council Member Cavanaugh spoke in support of the Samaritan Center and their upcoming fundraiser, and she recognized Mel Espinoza for his comments.
5. PUBLIC HEARINGS:
5A. A public hearing on the Draft Regional Consolidated Plan FY 2025- 2029 and to authorize its submission to the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (Perros) (CC)
There being no public testimony Mayor Cavanaugh opened and closed the public portion of the hearing at 7:41 p.m.
ACTION: Council Member Rhodes moved to review and approve the Priority Needs Summary, authorize the submission of the Draft Regional Consolidated Plan FY 2025- 2029 to the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, and authorize the City Manager to finalize related documents in association with the plan.
Mayor Pro Term Judge seconded the motion.
ROLL CALL:
AYES: Council Members Ayala, Rhodes, Litster, Mayor Pro Tem Judge, and Mayor Cavanaugh
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
5B. A public hearing on the Community Development Block Grant allocations, the Draft FY 2025- 2026 Action Plan, and the Draft Citizen Participation Plan (Perros) (CC)
Mayor Cavanaugh opened the public portion of the hearing at 7:51 p.m.
The following submitted a speaker card and spoke:
1. Annika Sumby (no address given), Executive Director Samaritan Center, thanked City Council for their support, and she spoke about the need for additional funding.
2. Tracy Heminuk , Simi Valley, CA, Samaritan Center Board member, spoke in support of the Samaritan Center to receive CDBG funds.
Minutes May 5, 2025
Mayor Cavanaugh closed the public portion of the hearing at 7:57 p.m.
ACTION: Council Member Litster moved to adopt the CDBG Advisory Committee’s funding recommendation, as modified , as the final determination of projects and programs to be funded in FY 2025-26; adopt the Citizen Participation Plan; authorize the submission of the FY 2025-26 Action Plan and the Citizen Participation Plan to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development; authorize the City Manager, or her designee to adjust the budget and proposed allocations when the City’s FY 2025- 26 CDBG allocation amount is announced; and authorize the City Manager to finalize and execute grant agreements and related documents in association with the FY 2025-26 CDBG Action Plan, modified to add $3,000 from Capital Projects to Upwards.
Mayor Pro Tem Judge seconded the motion.
ROLL CALL:
AYES: Council Members Ayala, Litster, Mayor Pro Tem Judge, and Mayor Cavanaugh
NAYS: Council Member Rhodes
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
5C. A public hearing to approve the 2025 Sanitation Five-Year Rate Study Report, make findings pursuant to Proposition 218, introduction of an ordinance establishing sanitation service rates and fees, and repealing Ordinance No. 1300 (Fuchiwaki) (CC)
Ordinance No. 1363 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
SIMI VALLEY ESTABLISHING A SCHEDULE OF SANITATION FEES AND CHARGES AND REPEALING ORDINANCE NO. 1300
Mayor Cavanaugh opened the public portion of the hearing at 8:37 p.m.
The following submitted a speaker card and spoke:
1. David Servaes, Simi Valley, CA, commented about the sanitation service rate increase and raised a concern with multiple houses on a lot compared to a single house on a lot.
2. Suresh Bammi, Simi Valley, CA, spoke in opposition to a sanitation service rate increase.
3. Jerome, Simi Valley, CA, spoke in opposition to a sanitation service rate increase.
Mayor Cavanaugh closed the public portion of the hearing at 8:48 p.m.
Minutes May 5, 2025
ACTION: Council Member Rhodes moved to approve the 2025 Sanitation Five-Year Rate Study; find that a notice in accordance with Prop 218 was sent to sanitation ratepayers describing the proposed FY 2025-26 to FY 2029-30 rates and fees and the procedure for protesting the rate increase to the City, and further find that a majority of the ratepayers did not protest the proposed rates and charges; introduce for first reading Ordinance No. 1363 establishing a Schedule of Sanitation Rates and Fees and repealing Ordinance No. 1300 as amended, and asked staff to look into residents with Accessory Dwelling Units. Mayor Pro Tem seconded the motion.
ROLL CALL:
AYES: Council Members Ayala, Rhodes, Mayor Pro Tem Judge, and Mayor Cavanaugh
NAYS: Council Members Litster
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
6. CONTINUED PUBLIC STATEMENTS ON ALL ITEMS OTHER THAN PUBLIC HEARINGS, APPOINTMENTS AND INFORMATIONAL REPORTS: None
7. CONSENT CALENDAR:
(1) Accept the Ventura County Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice (Perros) (CC)
ACTION: Approved request.
(2) Award of professional services contract to Reditius Foundation DBA Equologic, to seek state reimbursement of costs incurred during groundwater cleanup from Underground Storage Tank leak (Fuchiwaki) (CC)
ACTION: Awarded contract to Reditius Foundation dba Equologic.
(3) Adoption of a resolution approving the Project List and Expenditure Plan for the Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation Account Funds for FY 2025-26, Cycle 9 (Fuchiwaki) (CC)
Resolution No. 2025 -10 - ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE
PROJECT LIST AND EXPENDITURE PLAN FOR THE ROAD MAINTENANCE AND REHABILITATION ACCOUNT FUNDS FOR FY 2025-26, CYCLE 9
ACTION: Adopted Resolution No. 2025-10.
Minutes May 5, 2025
ACTION: Council Member Rhodes moved to approve Consent Calendar Items 1 through 3. Mayor Pro Tem Judge seconded the motion.
ROLL CALL:
AYES: Council Members Ayala, Rhodes, Litster, Mayor Pro Tem Judge, and Mayor Cavanaugh
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
8. CONTINUED BUSINESS: None
9. NEW BUSINESS: None
10. REPORTS:
10A. City Council/Board Member/Trustees/Special District Member Reports:
Council Member Ayala reported attending the State of Our Schools presentation, the League of California Cities 2025 City Leaders Summit, the Youth Employment Services Career Fair (YES), and had a tour of the Simi Valley YMCA. He stated he met with the new Leadership Team at Adventist Health Simi Valley, and attended the Elected Officials Briefing on NASA Phase 1 Groundwater Corrective Action (ZOOM).
Council Member Rhodes reported attending the League of California Cities 2025 City Leaders Summit, interviewed Arts Commission candidates, attended the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) Conference, and the Clean Power Alliance Board meeting (ZOOM).
Council Member Litster met with Joseph Metcalfe and Katie Garibaldi about a future event, attended the League of California Cities 2025 City Leaders Summit, Johnna’s Tea Party hosted by Rotary Club of Simi Sunset, and met with 3 Cub Scouts that needed to speak with an elected official. She state d she attended the Simi Valley Education Foundation Lew Roth Awards, met with the new Leadership Team at Adventist Health Simi Valley, attended the City of Moorpark City Hall Grand Opening, the California Lutheran U niversity Annual Prayer Breakfast, and the National Day of Prayer gathering at City Hall. Council Member Litster also attended the Simi Valley Education Foundation Teacher of the Month presentation, the Simi Valley Street Fair, and toured the Waste Management Landfill.
Mayor Pro Tem Judge reported attending the League of California Cities 2025 City Leaders Summit, the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) conference, and the Sergeant Ron Helus Ride for the Blue event.
Minutes May 5, 2025
Mayor Cavanaugh reported attending the Pacific Coast Business Times 50 Top Women in Business event and commented she was honored as an award recipient.
She attended the YES Job and Career Fair and volunteered for four days at the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA). Mayor Cavanaugh asked the City Manager to comment on the tragic plane crash in Simi Valley.
City Manager Samantha Argabrite spoke about the tragic plane crash in Simi Valley and commended the Simi Valley Police Department and the Ventura County Fire Department for the outstanding job they did in response.
10B. City Council/Board Member/Special District Member Requests for Future City Council Agenda Items:
Council Member Litster requested a future item regarding additional tons of waste being brought to the landfill and the impact on infrastructure. City Manager Argabrite stated the City and Waste Management are discussing the issue and City Council will be provided with a report on the matter.
Council Member Ayala requested an item exploring a possible increase to the Transient Occupancy Tax as a revenue generating source. Council Member Li tster seconded.
ADJOURNMENT: Mayor Cavanaugh adjourned the meeting at 9:28 p.m. in memory of Kathy Hinkle, to the meeting of May 19 , 2025, at 6:30 p.m.
There being no objections, the motion carried through
acclamation.
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Dee Dee Cavanaugh, Mayor of the City of
Simi Valley, California,
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Lucy Blanco CMC, City Clerk