Thousand Oaks General Plan
June 2023
ATTACHMENT #2
The Community Engagement Summary and Reference Material provides a summary of the outreach engagement activities completed during the process including public workshops, pop-up workshops, General Plan Advisory Committee (GPAC) meetings, focus groups, online surveys, neighborhood meetings, virtual office hours, and Planning Commission and City Council.
It is important to note that the COVID-19 Pandemic occurred during the update process. From 2019 through March 2020, all General Plan activities were held both in-person and online. In response to State and local public health guidance regarding the COVID-19 virus, all engagement activities were held virtually from March 2020 through the Spring of 2021. From Summer 2023 until adoption, the events were held in-person and online.
The City spent considerable time and effort informing residents in Thousand Oaks about the update process. As the list below shows, information about the project was distributed widely through multiple channels throughout the entire process. A summary of the methods used to inform the public about the process is below:
1 Citywide Mailer Sent to 38,004 households in water and wastewater bills in September 2019
2 Project Website The project website was created in English (www.toaks2045.com) and Spanish
(www.toaks2045.com/espanol) to provide information on
the project throughout the process. The website had over 50,000 page views and over 13,000 unique viewers.
3 General Plan
Email
Subscribers
An email database created for the Plan update had over
1,300 subscribers. Email blasts were sent 20 times during the process to inform the community about engagement
activities.
4 Social Media The City of Thousand Oaks utilized existing City Twitter and Instagram accounts that already had a significant
following. The City’s Twitter account has almost 300,000 impressions (the number of people that are served content from the page because they follow it) and over 3,000
profile visits (the number of people who took direct
actions on a post by continuing to visit the profile page).
The City’s Instagram account had a reach of over 6,500
unique accounts that saw any of the General Plan posts at least once and 1,600 who took direct action on a post
related to the Plan.
5 City
Newsletters
Articles in City-sponsored newsletters throughout the
process. This included the CityScene Newsletter (11 times with over 1,500 subscribers), the Economic Development
Newsletter (6 times with over 500 subscribers) and the
Sustainability Newsletter (4 times with over 10,000
subscribers). Each newsletter had articles about the
General Plan.
6 Advertisements Multiple advertisements around the City and in newspapers to promote workshops and forums. This
included:
o Paid use of the City Hall marquee.
o Posters in City Hall, Thousand Oaks libraries, and the Janss Marketplace.
o Paid Ads in The Acorn and VC Star newspapers.
7 Newspaper
Articles
Articles in two local newspapers—The Acorn and VC
Star—provided background on the project and
information about engagement activities. In total, there were over 30 articles about the General Plan Update in The Acorn and 3 in the VC Star. These newspapers reach a wide cross section of Thousand Oaks residents.
8 Email Emails requesting involvement to 167 homeowners’ associations, 48 religious organizations, President of
Conejo Council of PTAs, CLU students in the MPPA
program, and Conejo Valley Unified School District.
9 Mailers Mailing to all properties within the “Areas of Change.” 10 Flyers Flyers in both English and Spanish were distributed through the City Hall public counter, Thousand Oaks
libraries, Meals on Wheels, Conejo Recreation and Park
District volunteers.
11 October 2020
Planning
Month
Partnered with the Thousand Oaks Grant R. Brimhall
Library to promote October Planning Month and distribute materials on the General Plan Update.
o Passed out 1,000 postcards about planning and the
general plan update at curbside.
o Recorded two videos of reading children’s books
about city planning for Storytime.
o TO Library shared information on their website and
social media.
A diverse twenty-four-member committee was formed to provide insight throughout the City’s General Plan Update process. The GPAC is composed of residents, business owners, educators, students, and other members of the Thousand Oaks community at different stages of life and with different technical and professional expertise. All meetings were open to the public and the public in attendance was actively encouraged to participate. Input from both the GPAC and the public helped to guide each step of the General Plan Update process. Listed below are the topics, dates, and number of attendees for each of the 15 GPAC meetings. 1 August 28, 2019 Introduction to the GPAC and the
General Plan Update
41 in-person
attendees
2 September 25,
2019
Overview of key planning terms and
documents
40 in-person
attendees
3 November 14, 2019 Brainstorm on guiding principles 34 in-person attendees
4 December 12, 2019 Housing policy and identify areas of change and stability
30 in-person
attendees
5 February 6, 2020 Economic and market conditions;
review areas of change and stability
33 in-person
attendees
6 March 5, 2020 Develop land use concepts 37 in-person
attendees
7 May 28, 2020 Transportation and mobility 123 attendees via Zoom
8 July 23, 2020 Health, equity, and environmental
justice
48 attendees via
Zoom
9 August 20, 2020 Safety and resilience 49 attendees via Zoom
10 September 24,
2020
Sustainability 53 attendees via
Zoom
11 October 22, 2020 Arts and culture 58 attendees via
Zoom
12 November 19,
2020
Parks and open space 54 attendees via
Zoom
13 February 2, 2021 Joint GPAC/Community Workshop
on land use alternatives
255 attendees
via Zoom + 45
YouTube Live
viewers
14 March 25, 2021 Land use alternatives survey review
(Meeting held via Zoom with live
Spanish interpretation and closed
captioning.)
97 attendees via
Zoom + 11
YouTube Live
viewers
15 April 21, 2021 Joint GPAC/Community Workshop
on preferred land use alternative
(Meeting held via Zoom with live
Spanish interpretation and closed
captioning.)
75 attendees via
Zoom + 100
YouTube views
The summaries of the GPAC meetings are presented in this document.
In addition to larger, city-wide events, the consultant team sat down with smaller targeted groups and individuals of the community to hear feedback on specific topics.
1 June 24 and June 25,
2019
Stakeholder Interviews
2 July 18, 2019 Economic Development Focus Group
3 October 2019 Arts and Culture Element Stakeholder Interviews 4 November 2019 Arts and Culture Element Stakeholder Interviews and Arts Town Hall
5 January 2020 Economic Development Focus Group*
6 March 3, 2021 Environmental Justice & Equity Focus Group
The summaries of the stakeholder interviews and focus groups are presented in this document. (* notes are not available for this focus group) Community Forums provided an opportunity to discuss key topics and insights on the latest land use, circulation, development changes, and market trends affecting Thousand Oaks and the region.
1 October 2,
2019
The Happy
City
This forum focused on
developing a vision for a happy
livable city. Charles
Montgomery provided a
presentation on his book, The
Happy City and led a discussion
for the General Plan. Insights
from this forum shaped the
vision and guiding principles of
the General Plan.
Approximately
115 in-person
attendees
2 January
29, 2020
The Math of
Smart
Growth: Why
We Cannot
Afford to Keep
Building the
Same Way
This forum focused on the
relationship between
development and community
economic health. Joe Minicozzi
presented an approach to
planning and city design called
Geoaccounting with case
studies.
Approximately
50 in-person
attendees
The summaries of the community forums are presented in this document.
At multiple times during the process, the City held public workshops to discuss the vision and overall direction of the General Plan. The public workshops provided opportunities for residents and stakeholders to come together and share ideas about the future of the City.
1 September 12,
2019
Visioning
Workshop
This workshop was held in person and
had over 125 attendees. The focus was
on identifying issues and opportunities
and developing a vision for the future.
2 February 2,
2021
Review of Land
Use Alternatives
(live Spanish
interpretation
was provided)
This workshop, which was a joint
meeting with the GPAC, provided an
overview of the three land use
alternatives. The meeting was held
virtually (via Zoom) and attended by
255 people. An additional 45 people
viewed the event live via YouTube.
3 April 21, 2021 Selection of
Preferred
Alternative
At this virtual workshop, residents and
GPAC members reviewed and provided
input on the preferred land use
direction. There were 75 attendees via
Zoom and over 100 YouTube views.
The summaries of the workshop are presented in this document. (Note: Workshop 4 is combined with GPAC #15)
The General Plan Team hosted “pop-up” workshops throughout the City to solicit feedback from members of the community who may not seek out opportunities for civic engagement. The following are the events that City staff and the consultant team attended.
1 September 28, 2019 Conejo Valley Pride Festival
2 October 13, 2019 Civic Arts Plaza 25th Anniversary
3 October 20, 2019 Rotary Street Fair
4 October 23, 2019 Sage Publications & Atara
Biotherapeutics
5 October 24, 2019 Farmer’s Market (cancelled due to
wind)
6 October 26, 2019 Tarantula Hill Brewing Company
7 November 5, 2019 Amgen
8 November 5, 2019 TOHS Latino Youth Leadership Class
9 November 12, 2019 Chamber of Commerce
10 December 4, 2019 YMCA Youth & Government
11 January 15, 2020 2020 Wellness Fest
12 February 20, 2020 Youth Leadership Summit
13 April 10, 2020 Senior Summit (cancelled due to
COVID pandemic)
A series of virtual question and answer sessions with the project team on various aspects of the process were held on Zoom. There was a total of 66 participants. 1 February 11, 2021 (6:00pm-8:00pm) Office Hours – English with live Spanish interpretation
2 February 17, 2021 (6:00pm-8:00pm) Office Hours – English with live Spanish interpretation
3 February 20, 2021 (10:00am-12:20pm) Office Hours – English with live Spanish interpretation
4 February 23, 2021 (10:00am-12:00pm) Office Hours - Spanish
The General Plan Team provided General Plan Update presentations to various groups within the City.
1 January 11, 2021 We Belong 805
2 January 11, 2021 Democratic Club of Conejo Valley
3 January 13, 2021 Thousand Oaks Livability Action Network 4 January 28-29, 2021 Meetings with Macerich (The Oaks), Greater Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce, NewMark
Merrill Companies (Janss Marketplace), The
Acorn, Thousand Oaks Boulevard Association,
Lee & Associates, Rexford Industrial, Newmark
Group, CBRE, Amgen, Westlake BioPartners, and
Atara Biotherapeutics
5 February 1, 2021 Assistant Superintendent of Business Services Conejo Valley Unified School District
6 February 9, 2021 Thousand Oaks Teen Advisory League
7 February 16, 2021 Los Angeles Rams
8 February 17, 2021 Council on Aging
9 February 17, 2021 Youth Commission
10 February 18, 2021 Conejo Recreation and Park District Meeting 11 February 22, 2021 Thousand Oaks Livability Action Network 12 February 23, 2021 Greater Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce Legislative Roundtable
13 February 24, 2021 Students from Thousand Oaks, Newbury Park and Westlake H.S. – Latino Connection
14 February 25, 2021 Village Homes HOA
15 February 25, 2021 We Belong 805
16 March 1, 2021 Conejo Climate Coalition
17 March 1, 2021 Adelante Comunidad Conejo and Buen Vecino 18 March 8, 2021 Cal Lutheran University Governing Board
19 March 9, 2021 Greater Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce Board Meeting
20 March 10, 2021 City of Thousand Oaks Library Staff
21 March 11, 2021 Casa Conejo Municipal Advisory Council
Online community surveys were conducted during the General Plan Update process.
The surveys were designed to provide the public with an opportunity to help guide the most critical aspects of the General Plan – the identification of issues and strengths in the City; future growth and development patterns; and the overall vision for the future. The following is a brief summary of each survey. 1 Issues and
Opportunities
(September 2019 –
January 2020)
This survey asked similar
questions as the first community
workshop: 1) what makes
Thousand Oaks unique and
special; 2) what are the issues
and opportunities facing
Thousand Oaks today and in the
future; and 3) what is your vision
for Thousand Oaks in 2045.
Response information helped
inform the vision statement for
the General Plan.
Over 600
surveys were
received.
2 Prioritization of
Community Values
(February 28, 2020 –
May 4, 2020)
This survey allowed residents to
prioritize feedback from the
community on their values,
issues facing the City, and vision
for the future. Respondents were
also asked to map where future
growth and change (e.g.,
housing, entertainment, open
space) should be located in the
City.
461 responses
were received.
3 Land Use Alternatives
(February 2, 2021 –
March 15, 2021)
Respondents were asked for their
preferences on three different
land use alternatives, which were
detailed in a “briefing book.” The
2,127 surveys
were received.
briefing book and survey was
available in both English and
Spanish. The City coordinated
distribution of the book and
surveys with Adelante
Comunidad and Westminster
Clinic.
4 Preferred Land Use
Plan (April 16, 2021 –
May 12, 2021
This survey asked for feedback
on the preferred land use plan.
The preferred land use plan was
developed through an extensive
community engagement process
of workshops, GPAC meetings,
an online survey, and
stakeholder meetings.
2,726 surveys
were received.
The survey results for each survey are presented later in this document.
City Council and Planning Commission meetings occurred throughout the General Plan process to provide project updates, discuss a variety of topics, and review the 2021-2029 Housing Element Update. The following is a list of City Council and the Planning Commission meetings.
1 August 19, 2019 City Council General Plan Update kick off • Agenda, Item 9B (video)
• Staff Report
2 November 19, 2019 City Council update on the community engagement activities
• Agenda, Item 10A (video)
• Staff Report
3 March 29, 2021 Planning Commission consideration of land use alternatives
• Agenda, Item 8B (video)
• Staff Report
• Attachment 1
4 April 26, 2021 Planning Commission preferred land use map review and recommendation
• Agenda, Item 8A (video)
• Staff Report
• Attachments 1-3
• Attachment 4
• Attachment 5
5 May 18, 2021 City Council preferred land use map review (Meeting held via Zoom with live Spanish interpretation)
• Agenda, Item 4A (video)
• Staff Report
5 May 25, 2021 City Council preferred land use map decision (Meeting held via Zoom with live Spanish
interpretation)
• Agenda, Item 9A (video)
• Staff Report
6 September 27, 2021 Planning Commission review of Draft 2021-2029 Housing Element Update
• Agenda, Item 7A (video)
• Staff Report
• Attachment 1
7 January 10, 2022 Planning Commission review and recommendation of Draft 2021-2029 Housing Element Update
• Agenda, Item 8A (video)
• Staff Report
• Attachment 1
• Attachment 2
• Attachment 3
• Attachment 4
8 January 25, 2022 City Council review and adoption of Draft 2021-2029 Housing Element Update
• Agenda, Item 8A (video)
• Staff Report
The staff report for each Planning Commission and City Council study session is available on the City’s website at: https://toaks.primegov.com/public/portal. • March 23, 2021, General Plan Advisory Committee Meeting 3/25. Join us to review the survey results and more! – https://conta.cc/2OXlhOo
• February 24, 2021, We need YOU to help guide the future of TO. Take the Land Use Alternatives survey Today! – https://conta.cc/2NEfRHt
• February 19, 2021, Let’s Chat About Maps Tomorrow! – https://conta.cc/3bm6u6X
• February 11, 2021, Let’s Chat About Maps Tonight. Ask us about the future of Thousand Oaks from home! – https://conta.cc/3jNr7go
• February 3, 2021, Did you miss us last night? Recording of Community Workshop Thousand Oaks 2045 General Plan Update – https://conta.cc/3atoT1u • January 22, 2021, Let’s Talk Land Use in T.O. Community Workshop Thousand Oaks 2045 General Plan Update – https://conta.cc/3qMeMeF
• January 12, 2021, Thousand Oaks 2045 General Plan Update - GPAC Meeting and Community Workshop – https://conta.cc/3sj21cR
• November 12, 2020 and sent to non-openers on November 15, 2020, Let’s chat about parks and open space! – https://conta.cc/35q51ec
• October 15, 2020, Next Week: Arts & Culture and Thousand Oaks. Thousand Oaks 2045 General Plan Update – Upcoming Opportunity to Participate! – https://conta.cc/3j4jiRe • September 22, 2020, This Week: Sustainability and Thousand Oaks 💚 (corrected links!) Thousand Oaks 2045 General Plan Update - Upcoming opportunity to participate! – https://conta.cc/2FTOyEN
• September 17, 2020, Next Week: Sustainability and Thousand Oaks 💚 Thousand Oaks 2045 General Plan Update - Upcoming opportunity to participate! – https://conta.cc/3mAIbau
• August 18, 2020 and sent to non-openers on August 20, 2020, Thousand Oaks 2045 General Plan Update - August 20th GPAC Meeting Agenda is Available Now! – https://conta.cc/2Q8yzEw
• August 5, 2020 and sent to non-openers on August 9, 2020, Join us for the next General Plan Update meeting on Safety & Resilience! – https://conta.cc/3kiqWti • July 15, 2020 and sent to non-openers on July 18, 2020, Thousand Oaks 2045 General Plan Update - Upcoming Meeting! – https://conta.cc/2Wo7hO5
• June 25, 2020 and sent to non-openers on June 29, 2020, Thousand Oaks 2045 General Plan Update - News & Updates – https://conta.cc/3duZzaR • May 21, 2020 and sent to non-openers on May 25, 2020, Thousand Oaks 2045 General Plan Update - Spring Newsletter – https://conta.cc/36ptyij • February 28, 2020, Thousand Oaks 2045 General Plan Update – https://conta.cc/2veJUMN • January 15, 2020, Upcoming Community Forum and Opportunities to Get Involved – https://conta.cc/35STq4h
• December 6, 2019, GPAC to Discuss Housing – https://conta.cc/2COrnXD • March 2021 – https://conta.cc/3q2U5dv
• February 2021 – https://conta.cc/3cvsDlv
• January 2021 – https://conta.cc/3pX7y6T
• September 2020 – https://conta.cc/2YSB96C
• June 2020 – https://conta.cc/2yUbRv9
• May 2020 – https://conta.cc/3aZbDzI
• April 2020 – https://conta.cc/2Jt4jky
• March 2020 – https://conta.cc/2VxhGaO
• February 2020 – https://conta.cc/2OivCRn
• January 2020 – https://conta.cc/2S3BiRV
• December 2019 – https://conta.cc/2ru0o1c
• March 2021 – https://conta.cc/3dUKNxT
• February 2021 – https://conta.cc/39uS58N
• January 2021 – https://conta.cc/38feI0j
• December 2020 – https://conta.cc/3fXKAZM
• March 2020 – https://conta.cc/2I9OLBA
• February 2020 – https://conta.cc/2Um1pEX
• February 2021 E-Newsletter -
https://www.toaks.org/Home/Components/News/News/9335/3338?backlist=%2fdepartm ents%2fpublic-works%2fsustainability
• January 2021 E-Newsletter – Three articles; this is lead article:
https://www.toaks.org/Home/Components/News/News/9316/3338?backlist=%2fdepartm ents%2fpublic-works%2fsustainability
• August 2020 Blog -
https://www.toaks.org/Home/Components/News/News/9236/3338?fsiteid=1 • July 2020 Blog - https://www.toaks.org/Home/Components/News/News/8222/3338
Thousand Oaks General Plan Update
Meeting #1 Agenda | August 28, 2019
• Initiate the General Plan Advisory Committee.
• Discuss the roles and responsibilities of the General Plan Advisory Committee. • Provide an overview of the General Plan Update.
• Brainstorm on the key issues and opportunities in the City of Thousand Oaks.
GPAC Members
• Present: Alicia Rincon, Chaise Rasheed, Dr. Chris Kimball, Darren Bovard, Dena Jenson, Dustin Woomer, Emily Dale, Fred Fukunaga, Jacqueline Emanuel, Jennifer Lobenhofer, Dr. Karen Gorback, Ken Lamont, Laura Behjan, Mic Farris, Michael Nigh, Nicholas Reale, Patrick DuRoss, Paul Shrater, Tara Carruth, Dr. Victor Hayek, Wyatt McCrea • Absent: Amy Commans, Andy Fox, Rorie Skei
City Staff
• Andrew Powers, City Manager; Ingrid Hardy, Assistant City Manager; Tracy Noonan, City Attorney; Mark Towne, Community Development Director; Haider Alawami, Economic Development Director; Kelvin Parker, Deputy Community Development Director; Kari Finley, Planning Manager; Krystin Rice, Senior Planner; Iain Holt, Senior Planner; Tabitha McAtee, Assistant Planner; Brad Bussell, Senior Engineer
Consultant Team
• Matt Raimi and Melissa Stark, Rami + Associates
Introduction and Welcome
Andrew Powers, City Manager, welcome the GPAC members. GPAC members introduced themselves and shared how long they have been part of the Thousand Oaks community and in what capacity.
GPAC Roles and Responsibilities
Matt Raimi provided a brief overview of the role and responsibilities of the Advisory Committee.
Ground rules for participation were also covered.
Overview of the General Plan
Matt Raimi provided a brief demographic overview of the City, a summary of what a General Plan is, key components of the Thousand Oaks General Plan Update, the project schedule and community engagement approach.
Group Discussion
The consultant team posed the following questions to the Committee. A summary of responses are as follows:
1. What are the strengths of the City and opportunities for the future? o Open space, nature and outdoor recreation
o Public/private schools
o CLU
o Community spirit – small town feel
o City is fiscally sound
o City leadership
o Trails, parks and playfields
o Active civic community
o Location – proximity to mountains and beaches
o Affordable housing
o Arts accessibility
o Preservation of local history
o Sense of pride
o Public resource network for community members
o Local sports programs
o Clean
o Opportunity to attract filming
o Opportunity to increase non-profit sector
2. What are the key issues and pressures facing the City now and in the future? o Mobility – traffic congestion, commuting, public transportation, bikeability o Changes in retail
o Homelessness
o Housing/Lack of affordability/Choices for all lifestyles o Environmental sustainability (water supply)
o Aging population
o Arts and culture support
o Inclusiveness of people of color and/or immigrants with civic engagement o Lack of entertainment options and gathering spaces
o Infrastructure for future development
o Attracting business (not target specific industry, need flexibility)
3. What topics do you want to have more in-depth discussion on during GPAC meetings? o Housing/Understanding density
o Retail
o Transportation
o Development
o Popular new businesses
o Infrastructure and parking
o City’s changing demographics/Aging Population
o Livability
o Trends in technology like driverless cars
o Health and environmental justice
4. How can you help with community engagement? What ideas do you have for reaching out to the diversity of community members?
o Due to time constraints, members were asked to send ideas to the project email ([email protected]).
Public Comments
Members of the public were given a maximum of three minutes to share any thoughts or comments. Seven community members participated in public comment.
o Fire resiliency
o Noise, homelessness, safety of neighborhoods
o Fire safety, evacuation plans
o Need for Cultural Plan
o Need more housing type options
o Young adults are leaving the City
o Climate change/Resilience/Water Scarcity
o Need focus group for sustainability and vegetation management/wildfire Wrap-up and Next Steps
Adjourn at 8:00 pm
Thousand Oaks General Plan Update
Meeting #2 | September 25, 2019
• Discuss planning principles relevant to the General Plan Update GPAC Members
• Present: Andy Fox, Chaise Rasheed, Dr. Chris Kimball, Darren Bovard, Dustin Woomer, Emily Dale, Fred Fukunaga, Jacqueline Emanuel, Jennifer Lobenhofer, Dr. Karen Gorback, Ken Lamont, Mic Farris, Nicholas Reale, Patrick DuRoss, Paul Shrater, Rorie Skei, Tara Carruth, Dr. Victor Hayek, Wyatt McCrea
• Absent: Alicia Rincon, Amy Commans, Dena Jenson, Laura Behjan, Michael Nigh
*Note: attendance at this GPAC meeting was optional.
City Staff
• Ingrid Hardy, Assistant City Manager; Tracy Noonan, City Attorney; Mark Towne, Community Development Director; Kelvin Parker, Deputy Community Developer Director; Michael Forbes, Deputy Community Development Director; Kari Finley, Planning Manager; Iain Holt, Senior Planner; Krystin Rice, Senior Planner; Tabitha McAtee, Assistant Planner; Dusty Russell, Assistant Analyst
Consultant Team
• Matt Raimi, Raimi + Associates
Presentation
Community Development Director Mark Towne provided a presentation on the planning principles and the general plan update. The presentation included an overview of the existing general plan structure and elements, and information about zoning, specific plans, and other land use restrictions.
Question and Answer
Following the presentation, members of the committee and the public in attendance made comments and asked questions of Community Development staff and Matt Raimi (Raimi + Associates). The topics of the questions included housing, aging population, jobs and income, Measure E, infrastructure, transportation, pollution (light, air, etc.), technology trends and how they affect land use, and climate change.
Committee members requested that the GPAC have in-depth conversations on some topics including housing (diversity, affordability, and State requirements), and sustainability.
Next steps
Following Q&A, the team discussed next steps and upcoming community engagement.
General Plan Advisory Committee Meeting #3 Notes| 1
Thousand Oaks General Plan Update
Meeting #3 | November 14, 2019 | 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm
• Provide an overview of community engagement events to-date • Highlight key existing conditions
• Present community ideas voiced through the survey, workshop, and pop-up workshops • Brainstorm on guiding principles for the General Plan Update GPAC Members
• Present: Alicia Rincon, Amy Commans, Andy Fox, Chaise Rasheed, Darren Bovard, Dustin Woomer, Fred Fukunaga, Jacqueline Emanuel, Jennifer Lobenhofer, Dr. Karen Gorback, Ken Lamont, Laura Behjan, Mic Farris, Michael Nigh, Nicholas Reale, Patrick DuRoss, Paul Shrater, Tara Carruth, Wyatt McCrea
• Absent: Dr. Chris Kimball, Emily Dale, Dena Jenson, Rorie Skei, Dr. Victor Hayek, City Staff
• Ingrid Hardy, Assistant City Manager; Tracy Noonan, City Attorney; Mark Towne, Community Development Director; Kelvin Parker, Deputy Community Developer Director; Michael Forbes, Deputy Community Development Director; Iain Holt, Senior Planner; Krystin Rice, Senior Planner; Tabitha McAtee, Assistant Planner
Consultant Team
• Matt Raimi and Melissa Stark, Raimi + Associates
Presentation
Matt Raimi provided a project update including flow of recent and upcoming work, phase one community engagement activities and participation and existing conditions overview. The high-level existing conditions overview highlighted land use, demographics, open space, housing, economic development, natural hazards, mobility, and community health. He then presented the results from
General Plan Advisory Committee Meeting #3 Notes| 2
community engagement completed to date. This included a summary of the engagement activities and a composite summary of the strengths, challenges or threats, and opportunities for Thousand Oaks 2045.
Small Group Discussion
After the presentation, GPAC members split into small groups and brainstormed on community values and key strategies for the General Plan Update that will form the basis of the Guiding Principles .
Groups worked for approximately 45-minutes then shared their conversation with the other members of the GPAC. GPAC members also individually wrote their ideas about community values and key strategies on worksheets and gave the worksheets to staff. The following are the ideas generated from the GPAC.
Community Values
• Community pride/spirit
• Inclusive & welcoming community
o Embrace ethnic, racial, social, economic diversity
• Safe community
• High quality of life
• Family-friendly
• Suburban feel – a little bit of everything
• Open Space
o Preserve undeveloped open space
o Protect hillside/mountain views
• Desire to be more walkable
o Less car-centric and less traffic congestion
• Accessible and diverse entertainment options
• Ease of getting around
• Housing
o Affordable and workforce housing for diverse populations and needs o Equitable housing cost to labor salaries
o Diversity of housing choices
o Accessible housing
• Economic resiliency
o Vibrant/thriving economy with jobs
• Sustainable and diverse population
• Quality education both public and private
• Affordable and accessible healthcare
• High quality public services (police, fire)
• History of Thousand Oaks
o Part of the greater Conejo Valley ecosystem
General Plan Advisory Committee Meeting #3 Notes| 3
• Environmental leadership
• Climate conscious
Key Strategies
• Improved public transportation
o Better public transit
o Transit Master Plan
• Greater housing diversity
o Offer more housing types like mixed use development and multifamily • More community gathering spaces
• Greater youth involvement
• Mixed use development (combat siloed areas)
• Preserve and protect open space and views
• Reuse/revitalize existing developed land
o Repurpose land downtown
o Create mixed use at shopping centers
o Convert commercial to housing
• Address homelessness and mental illness
• Consider developing 2 downtowns/hubs
o City Hall/CAP
o Thousand Oaks and Westlake Boulevard
o Walkable environment
o Offer entertainment
• Plan for and consider energy, water, trash
• Climate change awareness and preparedness
o Innovative ways to reduce carbon emissions
• Protect small town feel – close knit community
• Protect mobility and ease of getting around
• Attract more of the younger demographic
• Attract families by creating community gathering places and entertainment • Community integration with future development
• Continue to support families
• Protect against future wildfires
• Encourage neighborhood character/sense of community in new development • Enable and encourage non-car transportation
• Develop path out of homelessness and into housing
• City resilience against climate change and natural disaster
General Plan Advisory Committee Meeting #3 Notes| 4
Public Comments
Five members of the community formed a small group to create their list of values and guiding principles. The public’s composite summary is below.
Community values
• Community character
• Open space
• Concerned about changes to Civic Arts Plaza
• More homes needed
• Out of balance between youth culture and old school peace and quiet-need more youth culture • Future needs of water, quality and availability
Key strategies
• Look to the original 1970 Master Plan – affordable housing • Encourage conversion of commercial spaces to mixed use or housing • Two town centers – Westlake and Thousand Oaks Boulevards and Moorpark Road and Thousand Oaks Boulevard
• Underground electric utilities for safety
• Consider transportation changes like electric and self-driving cars
Additional Public Comment:
One member of the public provided additional comment which included their desire for additional climate change measures to combat severe drought, stronger winds , wildfires, and oak tree preservation.
Thousand Oaks General Plan Update
Meeting #4 | December 12, 2019 | 6:00 pm to 8:30 pm
• Review and refine Draft General Plan Guiding Principles • Present overview of housing existing conditions
• Discuss potential areas of change and stability in Thousand Oaks GPAC Members
• Present: Chaise Rasheed, Dustin Woomer, Fred Fukunaga, Jennifer Lobenhofer, Dr. Karen Gorback, Ken Lamont, Laura Behjan, Mic Farris, Michael Nigh, Nicholas Reale, Paul Shrater, Dr.
Chris Kimball, Emily Dale, Rorie Skei
• Absent: Alicia Rincon, Amy Commans, Andy Fox, Darren Bovard, Jacqueline Emanuel, Dena Jenson, Tara Carruth, Patrick DuRoss, Dr. Victor Hayek, Wyatt McCrea City Staff
• Ingrid Hardy, Assistant City Manager; Kelvin Parker, Deputy Community Developer Director; Michael Forbes, Deputy Community Development Director; Kari Finley, Advanced Planning Manager; Krystin Rice, Senior Planner; Tabitha McAtee, Assistant Planner Consultant Team
• Matt Raimi and Melissa Stark, Raimi + Associates
• Veronica Tam, Veronica Tam + Associates
Guiding Principles Overview
Matt Raimi provided an overview of the draft Guiding Principles to the GPAC. GPAC members reviewed the draft Guiding Principles and provided comments and suggestions. Overall, GPAC members felt the general direction was correct and refl ected the discussion at the last GPAC meeting; however, members provided multiple comments and suggestions for improvements. As a next step in the process, City staff and the consultant team will revise and expand the Guiding Principles and provide them to the GPAC at a future meeting.
Housing Existing Conditions
Veronica Tam provided an overview of housing existing conditions in the City and housing policy. The presentation included the following general topics:
• Existing housing conditions including housing stock, income distribution, median home price, rental rate by type and size, affordability, and housing costs • Programs by the City of Thousand Oaks to promote more affordable housing • An overview of the Housing Element requirements, Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA)
• The benefits of the having a diverse housing stock
• A summary of new housing law and policy direction from the State of California including consequences of noncompliance with having an approved Housing Element
Following Veronica’s presentation, Matt provided an overview of density and intensity and how they relate to residential and non-residential development.
After the presentation, the group paused for questions and a brief discussion on housing. A summary of the conversation and topics discussed is below:
• There was a recognition that the housing challen ges in Thousand Oaks are similar to the County and the State.
• Expand Housing Assistance Programs in Thousand Oaks since they are currently limited. • Pursue moderately priced housing that is attainable for people in the workforce (ideally for people working in the City).
• Require developers to provide a mix of housing types within a project. • Low income units should be included in all new developments – inclusionary housing. • Thousand Oaks should meet state requirements for housing while maintaining the character and quality of life in the community.
• Pursue creative development concepts and consider building taller buildings in order to build more housing at different income levels.
• Build new, higher density housing in limited areas of the City, such as along commercial corridors and adjacent to the mall.
• Concern that taller buildings will impact the views in the city. • Reduce fees for approving Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU). • Consider objective design standards that produce good developments but expedite the process of approving new housing.
Small Group Mapping Activity
After the presentation and initial discussion, GPAC members were divided into three small groups for the mapping activity. The purpose of the mapping activity was to identify “areas of stability” (where there will be little change in the next 25 years) and “potential areas of change” where new development could occur.
The base map identified areas already de fined as potential areas of stability through engagement activities. These included single family residential uses, civic and institutional uses, and parks and
open space. Approximately 92% of the land area in the city was identified as “areas of stability.” GPAC members generally agreed that the areas of stability were correct.
Next, GPAC members were asked to identify potential areas of change using stickers representing different types of uses , including multifamily housing, mixed use, office and shoppin g, and annotating the maps with pens. Groups worked for approximately 40 minutes then shared their ideas with the larger group. The maps from small group activity results can be found in the attached file.
The following are some generalized results from the mapping activity:
• The areas of stability area generally correct.
• New development should be infill and not greenfields (previously undeveloped areas). • New multifamily and mixed-use housing should not be in single family residential areas. • Many groups identified Thousand Oaks Boulevard, the mall, and larger shopping centers as areas for new multifamily and mixed-use development.
• New housing should be located near CLU and the biotech areas to provide additional housing choices for students and faculty in CLU and employees of biotech companies.
In addition, there were approximately 25 people from the public in attendance. The members of the public divided into three groups and also participated in the mapping activity . The public’s mapping activity results can be found in the attached file.
Public Comment:
At the close of the meeting was the official public comment period. Seven members of the public spoke.
Their comments are summarized below.
• Concern for drought in California
• Concern about Thousand Oaks Boulevard traffic as there is too much already • Maintain permanent parks, recreation and open space
• Control/limit future growth
• Address overcrowded single family housing
• Currently there is a housing imbalance and there is only a small amount of land to accommodate future needs
• Additional high-density housing could accommodate students and workers • Encourage development of accessory dwelling units
Closing:
At the close of the meeting, Matt Raimi identified the next steps in the process, including:
• A Community Forum on January 29, 2020
• Future GPAC meetings in February 6 and March 5
• A citywide survey to prioritize issues and strategies • Pop-up workshops on new development
Attachment: Mapping activity results
Note: Individual participate names have been covered
GPAC Group #1
GPAC Group #2
GPAC Group #3
Public Group #1
Public Group #2
Public Group #3
Thousand Oaks General Plan Update
GENERAL PLAN ADVISORY
COMMITTEE
Meeting #5 | February 6, 2020 | 6:00 to 8:00 pm
MEETING NOTES
OBJECTIVES
• Prioritize themes from community engagement
• Provide an overview of economic and market conditions in the City • Discuss the relationship between land use, fiscal resources and community services • Review areas of change and areas of stability map
ATTENDEES
GPAC Members
• Present: Dr. Victor Hayek, Paul Shrater, Laura Behjan, Emily Dale, Dustin Woomer, Tara Carruth, Dr.
Chris Kimball, Jacqueline Emanuel, Wyatt McCrea, Michael Nigh, Darren Bovard, Chaise Rasheed, Mic Farris, Dr. Karen Gorback, Alicia Rincon RN, Amy Commans, Nicholas Reale
• Absent: Jennifer Lobenhofer, Rorie Skei, Dena Jenson, Ken Lamont, Fred Fukanaga, Andy Fox, Patrick DuRoss
City Staff
• Tracy Noonan, City Attorney; Haider Alawami, Economic Development Manager; Mark Towne, Community Development Director; Michael Forbes, Deputy Community Director; Kelvin Parker, Deputy Community Development Director; Kari Finley, Planning Manager; Krystin Rice, Senior Planner; Iain Holt, Senior Planner; Tabitha McAtee, Assistant Planner
Consultant Team
• Matt Raimi, Raimi + Associates and Amitabh Barthakur, HR&A Advisors
MEETING MINUTES
Presentation
Matt Raimi provided a project update including flow of recent and upcoming work, review of community engagement activities and participation, and upcoming schedule of GPAC meetings. Matt paused for
feedback from recent community engagement events. Comments on the 2nd Community Forum are summarized below.
• Data presented at the Forum provided a different perspective • Highlighted the street network in Thousand Oaks which is not a grid system. The Downtown Core will help address issues, bring in more revenue
• The presentation had good visuals
• The presentation was easy to understand
Community Priorities Exercise
After the presentation, Matt provided a prioritization exercise on community values and issues. This was a preview of the prioritization exercise that will be included in an online survey. GPAC members and the public were asked to rank the top 4 community strengths and values and top 4 issues and challenges. Comments on this exercise are summarized below.
• Consensus that the Community Strengths and Values is a good list and representative of the community
• Question whether they should be responding to the City’s top community strengths and values and issues and challenges, or what they personally care about for future generations? • High quality of life and suburban character seem to overlap and are too similar on the Community Strengths and Values list
• Based on the discussion from the 2nd Community Forum, maintenance responsibilities for too much infrastructure could be added to the list of Issues and Challenges • Connected with fear of becoming the “Valley” Issue and Challenge item Individual results were tallied (non-weighted) with the top 4 community strengths and values as (1.) High Quality of Life, (2.) Protected Natural Areas, (3.) Parks, Public Facilities and Services, and (4.) Education. While the top 4 issues and challenges recorded as (1.) Housing Challenges, (2.) Lack of Economic and Demographic Diversity, (3.) Vacant and Underutilized Retail and (4.) Traffic Congestion. See the attached summary table with tallied results.
Economic and Market Overview
Amitabh Barthakur from HR&A Advisors provided an overview of the Economic and Market Existing Conditions Report, the relationship between land use and fiscal resources, and the market and fiscal health in Thousand Oaks. A question and answer session—including members of the public—followed the presentation which is summarized below.
• How are Thousand Oaks’ online sales taxes captured?
• What are the impacts (i.e. traffic) of adding more hotels in Thousand Oaks? • Would adding more hotels result in more tax revenues as a result of Transient Occupancy Taxes (TOT)?
• What land uses capture more tax revenue?
• What are some of the unintended consequences of having a biotech ecosystem? For example, smaller companies who want to be located near larger more established businesses get priced out.
Amitabh responded that the broader ecosystem can be sustained when there are a range of rental rates in the area.
• Are there any long-term economic dangers in biotech?
• Will the biotech presence price people out of Thousand Oaks? What if biotech leaves Thousand Oaks or fails? It’s possible that biotech could leave or fail. • What if Amgen wants to leave and they’re the leading employer in the city? How are they attracting young professionals to want to work and live here?
• There is a big demand for health care, education, and public services in Thousand Oaks. • Cities like Simi Valley and Oxnard are attracting people to live there by adding new housing, entertainment, and experiential retail centers. We need to pay attention to what other cities are doing to make sure we don’t lose more jobs or miss out on tax revenue. • How does the city earn revenue through businesses? City staff responded that City earns revenue through property tax and business license fees.
• How can we incorporate natural elements like oak trees and open space that attract most people to this city in economic development?
• How does the City pay to maintain open space? City staff responded that there is no money coming in to help maintain the open space.
• If Amgen only provides the city property tax, and employees aren’t living here, isn’t it a wash? Yes, we need more housing.
• How do we address restaurant and retail cannibalization? It’s a challenge for businesses to sustain themselves in the current market with new competition.
• Are there other revenue types from other cities that could be good examples of how we can earn more money? Amitabh noted that property taxes are stable, however, not as much as sales tax. • We already have an economic diversity that a lot of other cities envy, how do we maintain and continue to expand? Amitabh responded that Thousand Oaks can maximize impact by attracting employees to live here and spend money here by offering a diversity of housing options, entertainment options, and gathering places.
• What are the impacts of a revitalized downtown or main street? • Hotels are low impact and high revenue for the City.
• The Downtown Core will help gain revenue and fill an existing gap in the market by adding restaurants, bars, and other gathering places for patrons of the Bank of America theatre to go before and after a concert or show.
• Have we asked targeted age groups what amenities are missing in Thousand Oaks? We should look at Sacramento and other thriving downtowns and cities.
• With online shopping so prevalent today, people are looking for experiences instead of traditional retail shopping malls. They want to visit walkable place that offer a variety of experiences. • How can the City diversify its fiscal base?
• What strategies should be used to ensure high quality public services for the next generation? Public Comments
Members of the public were invited to provide additional comment at the end of the meeting. Each person was limited to two minutes. Below is a summary of public comment.
• Over the next 25 years, is the City planning to earn revenue over culture stability? Or at the same time? City staff responded that the goal is to address both together, as the City wants to preserve what it has and fix what needs to be fixed.
• Thousand Oaks teachers can’t afford to live here, we need to offer affordable options like condos. • Thousand Oaks needs to plant more oak trees
• Measure E should manage growth in Thousand Oaks
• Protect oak trees
Closing:
At the close of the meeting, Matt Raimi identified upcoming community engagement activities including:
• Future GPAC meetings on March 5th, April (TBD), June 4th, and September 10th • A citywide survey to prioritize issues and strategies • Pop-up workshops on new development
• Community workshop #2 April 30th
Attachment: Community priorities exercise results
COMMUNITY PRIORITIES EXERCISE
Below is a summary table with tallied results –not weighted– from GPAC meeting #5.
GPAC PUBLIC TOTAL COMMUNITY STRENGTHS & VALUES
1 6 7 Arts and culture: A commitment to arts and culture, especially the Civic Arts Plaza
11 8 19 Education: High quality public and private schools and the presence of California Lutheran University (CLU)
9 8 17 Engaged community: A civically minded community and a responsive local government committed to serving the needs of residents and businesses 14 10 24 High quality of life : A stable community with small -town character, a high quality of life, and family-friendly activities
11 10 21 Parks, public facilities and services : A diversity of well -maintained parks, usable open spaces, great public facilities, and diverse social services 9 14 23 Protected natural areas: A commitment to protecting natural open spaces, views, and oak trees that enhance the character of Thousand Oaks 10 6 16 Safe and welcoming community : A tight-knit community that is safe and welcoming
2 6 8 Suburban character: A suburban community that is easy to get around with attractive single-family neighborhoods
GPAC PUBLIC TOTAL ISSUES & CHALLENGES
8 4 12 Few gathering places and entertainment options: A lack of entertainment options and social gathering places especially for teenagers and young professionals
6 8 14 Fear of becoming “the Valley”: Concern that development will change the character or identity of Thousand Oaks and that it will look like the San Fernando Valley
15 12 27 Housing challenges: High cost of housing and lack of different housing options that lead to homelessness, the inability for employees to live in the City and for young adults to afford living in Thousand Oaks 5 7 12 Lack of mobility options: Lack of transit connectivity within Thousand Oaks and to other parts of the region; lack of wide sidewalks, crosswalks, and a connected bike network
10 8 18 Lack of economic and demographic diversity: Concern that the City lacks a diverse residential population and a diversity of jobs and industries that could result in declining revenue sources leading to a reduction in public services.
5 4 9 Public safety: Safety concerns including crime, wildfires, and natural disasters
GPAC PUBLIC TOTAL ISSUES & CHALLENGES
7 9 16 Traffic congestion: Traffic congestion on major roadways during peak periods
8 9 17 Vacant and underutilized retail: Vacant and underutilized retail areas, particularly along Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Moorpark Road, and at the malls.
Thousand Oaks General Plan Update
Meeting #6 | March 5, 2020 | 6:00 to 8:00 pm
• Review and refine areas of stability and change
• Review existing land use and urban form in Thousand Oaks • Provide an overview of growth and development trends and innovations in the State • Discuss potential development location, type, and character • Work in groups to prepare land use concepts
GPAC Members
• Present: Laura Behjan, Darren Bovard, Patrick DuRoss, Jacqueline Emanuel, Mic Farris, Dr. Karen Gorback, Ken Lamont, Wyatt McCrea, Chaise Rasheed, Paul Shrater, Nicholas Reale, Rorie Skei, Dustin Woomer
• Absent: Tara Carruth, Amy Commans, Emily Dale, Andy Fox, Fred Fukanaga, Dr.
Victor Hayek, Dena Jenson, Dr. Chris Kimball, Jennifer Lobenhofer, Michael Nigh, Alicia Rincon RN
City Staff
• Michael Forbes, Deputy Community Development Director; Kari Finley, Planning Manager; Krystin Rice, Senior Planner; Iain Holt, Senior Planner; Tabitha McAtee, Assistant Planner
Consultant Team
• Matt Raimi and Melissa Stark, Raimi + Associates
Youth Leadership Update
GPAC Member Jaqueline Emanuel provided an overview of the Youth Leadership Summit held on February 20, 2020 with over 60 people in attendance, including the Youth Commission and city staff. The event served as a forum for Thousand Oaks youth to weigh
in on current City matters, including the General Plan Update. Jaqueline reported feedback from the summit, which is summarized below.
• The group reported concern for urban sprawl, environmental issues, lack of gathering spaces, and high rate of student vaping in schools. • Most youth did not see themselves living in Thousand Oaks in adulthood. • Youth noted that Thousand Oaks is an expensive place to live with not many things to do for entertainment.
• Youth desires for the future included more community gathering places that build off existing areas like the Janss Marketplace and Thousand Oaks Boulevard, specifically noting a desire for a drive-in movie theater somewhere in the city. • Another highlight was the event’s keynote speaker Tim Hagel, retired Thousand Oaks Police Chief, who discussed Safe Passage, a program in Thousand Oaks that supports youth and drives to eliminate gang-related crime and recruitment.
Presentation & Discussion
Matt Raimi provided a project update and overview of existing land use and form and existing land use regulations for the City of Thousand Oaks.
After this overview, one member of the public asked if the existing General Plan land use map is sound, to which the team responded that the existing General Plan land use map will serve as the baseline for the General Plan Update.
Matt continued the presentation by highlighting some land use and design trends across the United States. These trends included complete neighborhoods, missing middle housing, downtowns, corridor mixed-use, multi-family housing, village centers, regional mall conversions, coworking spaces and business incubators, and office park conversions.
After this part of the presentation, the group paused for questions. A summary of the discussion is provided below.
• One GPAC member asked what are the geographic extents of a neighborhood? Matt responded that it is typically a 1/4-mile radius of an area, with daily needs within walking distance. One GPAC member mentioned the concept of a 20-minute neighborhood.
• One GPAC member asked how other cities like Thousand Oaks—that developed in a suburban pattern—are updating and retrofitting their communities? The group mentioned in that examples were provided in previous GPAC meetings. These presentations are available on the project website.
• One GPAC member asked about architectural innovation and ways to bring new architectural ideas to Thousand Oaks? Matt responded that the 1st and 2nd floor experience is very important, and that Thousand Oaks doesn’t want every building to be the same. However, the General Plan doesn’t get into that level of granular detail.
The next part of the presentation reviewed density and intensity, some community concerns about density, and benefits of density and mixed use. After the overview presentation, the group played a game to guess a building’s density based on the physical appearance. Each GPAC member and public participant was given a handout to record their guesses for each of the 11 buildings. In general, the group was surprised by the building density results and that the appearance is not always indicative of the density.
Group Activity: Create Land Use Concepts
After the presentation and discussion, participants were invited to create their own land use concepts. GPAC members split into two groups, and members of the public created a third. Each group was given a large-scale aerial map of Thousand Oaks, a zoomed in aerial of the 101-Freeway corridor, various place type stickers and pens to craft their own land use alternative. The groups worked for about 40 minutes while the consultant team and city staff visited the tables to answer any questions.
Group Activity Report Out/Discussion
One representative from each group summarized their land use alternative to the larger group. These summaries are described below.
GPAC Group #1 (used 101-corridor map)
• Focus on the mall areas; The Oaks and Janss Marketplace • Higher density and mixed-use along Thousand Oaks Boulevard • Industrial flex and supportive uses, like restaurants and retail, around the existing industrial zones and Amgen
• Missing middle housing in underutilized or vacant areas around existing single family residential
• Desire to convert underutilized commercial and areas with expansive asphalt into mixed use or high-density housing that is close to existing jobs and/or retail GPAC Group #2 (used both maps)
• Desire to create village centers by adding missing middle housing, and mixed-use in and around existing malls
• Village centers with retail and residential incorporated • Existing underutilized office space retrofitted into multi-family residential, opportunity for the Promenade at Westlake
• New missing middle housing for people that already work in Thousand Oaks, give them an opportunity to live here, specifically in Newbury Park • Incorporate mixed-use into retail centers that are struggling, especially by California Lutheran University (CLU) to make them more walkable neighborhoods
Public Group #3 (used both maps)
• Underutilized areas as future opportunity sites for housing, entertainment district, and hotels
• More housing with a little more density
• More amenities on the eastern side of town, near Amgen. • Incorporate higher density residential and mixed use
• Village centers, mixed use, parks and open space, and main street retail around the Civic Arts Plaza
• More flex industrial space
• Preserve open space around Westlake High School
• Consider reasonable density for future development
• Consider existing traffic and future impacts from new development • Missing middle housing on the western side of town, account for middle-low— income level housing
• New public transportation opportunities
Other Comments:
• Both GPAC groups identified the malls as opportunity sites for the future o Encourage retrofitting and new uses to keep malls viable • Fight retail center blight
Public Comments
Seventeen members of the public signed-in and many participated in the meeting activities. One member of the public spoke during the public comment period, which is summarized below.
• One member of the public announced that there are fundraising for Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS) where donations go towards research for all cancer types Wrap-up and Next Steps
Matt highlighted the upcoming community events and next steps and asked for any final thoughts from the group. One GPAC member had closing thoughts which are summarized below.
• Housing that is supportive for homeless and seniors should be considered • Suggest a pop-up workshop event at the Goebel Adult Center before bingo to solicit feedback from seniors
Adjourn at 8:10 pm
Attachment: GPAC #6 map activity results
GPAC Group #1 Mapping Activity Results
GPAC Group #2 Mapping Activity Results
GPAC Group #2 Mapping Activity Results Continued
Public Group #3 Mapping Activity Results
Public Group #3 Mapping Activity Results Continued
Thousand Oaks General Plan Update
Meeting #7 | May 28, 2020 | 6:00 to 8:00 pm
This was a virtual meeting held via Zoom and livestreamed to Facebook. Members of the public could register in advance to join the Zoom meeting to watch and/or make public comments, or view on Facebook live and submit comments through the online comment forum, Poll Everywhere.
• Review mobility existing conditions, state legislative context, best practices, and opportunities for Thousand Oaks
GPAC Members
• Present: Alicia Rincon, Amy Commans, Chaise Rasheed, Dr. Chris Kimball, Darren Bovard, Dustin Woomer, Emily Dale, Fred Fukanaga, Jacqueline Emanuel, Jennifer Lobenhofer, Dr. Karen Gorback, Ken Lamont, Laura Behjan, Mic Farris, Michael Nigh, Nicholas Reale, Patrick DuRoss, Paul Shrater, Rorie Skei, Tara Carruth, Dr.
Victor Hayek, and Wyatt McCrea
• Absent: Dena Jenson, Andy Fox
City Staff
• Tracy Noonan, City Attorney; Ingrid Hardy, Assistant City Manager; Mark Towne, Community Development Director; Michael Forbes, Deputy Community Development Director; Kelvin Parker, Deputy Community Development Director; Krystin Rice, Senior Planner; Iain Holt, Senior Planner; Tabitha McAtee, Assistant Planner; Nader Heydari, Deputy Public Works Director; Jim Mashiko, Senior Civil Engineer; Kathy Naoum, Transportation Planner; and Ashley Humes, Neighborhood & Social Services Liaison
Consultant Team
• Matt Raimi and Melissa Stark, Raimi + Associates
• Viggen Davidian and Deepak Kaushik, Iteris
• Rogelio Pardo, Nelson\Nygaard Consulting Associates
Viewers
• 94 total users (includes all staff, consultants, GPAC members and attendees)
• 29 unique viewers (people viewing the webinar on their computer; does not include GPAC or attendees who listened by phone)
• 14 concurrent views (maximum number of online views at the same time during the webinar, excluding panelists)
Presentation & Discussion
Matt Raimi kicked off the meeting with an overview of the evening’s agenda.
Then Melissa Stark highlighted important Zoom features for GPAC members and how members of the public could participate in the meeting through Facebook Live, the comments forum, and make public comment within the Zoom meeting.
After this overview, Matt Raimi introduced City staff, consultant team, and GPAC members in attendance. Then the group participated in an “ice -breaker” activity where each GPAC member highlighted one positive thing they’ve experiences during the past two months.
Following introductions and the ice-breaker activity, Matt Raimi provided an overview of the General Plan Update progress, noting impacts on the schedule due to COVID -19. Matt highlighted that several in-person engagement activities and GPAC meeting where cancelled with additional delays to work tasks.
Rogelio Pardo began the mobility presentation by highlighting the background research and analysis conducted to-date. He then reviewed a series of maps and charts illustrating the city’s existing roadway network, roadway congestion, available capacity, bicycle network and safety, pedestrian network and safety, transit ridership, mode share split, and concluded with a summary of issues and opportunities.
After this part of the presentation, the group paused for questions and clarifications. A summary of the discussion is listed below.
• A City staff member commented that Lynn Road is mapped as six lanes, but it is striped as four lanes with bicycle lanes.
• One GPAC member commented on mixed-use projects, specifically related to parking and traffic congestion, and overflow parking onto adjacent streets. • A City staff member acknowledged that bicycle collisions are often underreported.
Noting that it is important to look at the entire network to determine what challenges bicyclists face.
Deepak Kaushik continued the presentation with an overview of key legislation including SB 743 and the Complete Streets Act. After a brief pause with no questions, he continued with a review of best practices and opportunities. Next, he reviewed mobility, connected networks, street design, designing for roadway, pedestrian, and cyclist safety, signature spaces, and
improving local transit and regional connectivity. City staff provided the following comments:
• Every few years, the City conducts a road surfacing project to evaluate roadway capacity and consider pedestrian amenities. When feasible, this includes adding or widening bike lanes.
Members of the public submitted questions and comments on the presentation through Poll Everywhere throughout the meeting. These questions and responses are listed below. • What considerations are being made to climate change mitigation within the transportation element of the General Plan Update? The team noted that climate change and sustainability would be integrated throughout the document as well as through the Environmental Impact Report.
• I would like to see the Newbury Park bus go directly to the transit center instead of needing to transfer at the Oaks Mall. The team responded that this is a specific transit route and service issue that needs to be addressed as part of bus service planning, but if it may be relevant in the larger General Plan Mobility Element context, it may be addressed
• Do new developments have to keep in mind the traffic during evacuation? For instance, the Kmart proposal will increase density so much that evacuations for that community and surrounding communities will be dangerous. The team noted that this is not discussed in the General Plan Update but would be part of an individual project review prior to approval. The team also noted countywide efforts underway for evacuation planning
• Do curb extensions get in the way of bikes? It seems that they are better for the pedestrian, but not the bikes. The team noted that designs in some communities are as wide as the parking lane, which would leave the bicycle lane unobstructed. • Biking/walking mobility within Thousand Oaks could be improved by reducing vehicle speeds on roadways through residential areas where people currently avoid using adjacent walking paths. For instance, on Westlake Boulevard between the 101 freeway and Avenida de Los Arboles, where the 50-mph speed limit is dangerous and off-putting.
Discussion Questions:
The team posed a series of discussion questions to engage GPAC members in the materials covered: What do you like about the City’s current mobility system? What works well and what are issues the city is facing? What needs to be fixed? What do you want to see the General Plan accomplish for mobility? What mobility improvements should be prioritized? And What locations should be prioritized for mobility improvements? Below is a summary of GPAC questions and discussion.
• One GPAC member asked if traffic would increase if more bicycle lanes are added? Also, asking what the process is for adding carpool lanes and diamond lanes on a freeway? The team responded that congestion on routes could be an impact, but that the team would conduct a comprehensive analysis to understand overall network capacity, alternative routes for vehicles and bicycles alike, and design options to minimize impacts. The team also responded that the process for diamond lanes needs to be spearheaded by Caltrans, which holds jurisdiction over the freeway.
VCTC and Caltrans are already leading an effort to plan for HOV (carpool) lanes on US-101 from SR-23 in Thousand Oaks to SR-33 in Ventura. The team also mentioned that this process is in currently in the environmental analysis and preliminary design stage, but there is currently no specific timeframe for implementation pending availability of funding. There are currently no plans for HOV lanes on SR-23.
• One GPAC member referenced other cities that reduced city street lanes only to add them back later due to increases in traffic congestion. The project team responded that bike lane planning must be done with a proper complete streets context to minimize negative impacts if a lane is taken away.
• One GPAC member commented that people like gateway roads, such as Wendy Drive and Borchard Road. Mentioning that those streets can be beautified without losing functionality. The Project team acknowledged comment and balance between multi-modal needs and beautification features such as landscaping • One GPAC member commented that they were glad to see the new flashing crosswalks within Thousand Oaks, noting that they are safer for pedestrians. They continued to mention that additional crosswalks would be helpful in other areas of Thousand Oaks, such as at Thousand Oaks High School and Reino Road to Newbury Park High School.
• One GPAC member commended the City for fixing vehicular slow-downs between Duesenberg Drive to Westlake Boulevard, on Thousand Oaks Boulevard with the flashing yellow turn lanes; and, for the ensuring the safety of citizens going across Thousand Oaks Boulevard with the planned crosswalks next to 24 Hour Fitness. • One GPAC member stated that Thousand Oaks is a heavy car city because it was designed for automobiles. Mentioning the city’s local transit issue is related to cost, with an additional need for regional transit routes. This GPAC member also mentioned that their residential street is frequently used as an auxiliary bypass route where drivers speed, despite a school and many senior residents. The team noted that design features can help limit speed on auxiliary streets and cut through traffic as well to enhance safety.
• One GPAC member commented that connectivity and safety is important, noting that they don’t see much bicycle parking, and asked if there be more bicycle routes
for connectivity and experienced bicyclists? A City staff member responded that the City encourages the installation of bicycle racks and requires their installation for all new projects. The City also has a Bike Rack program that provide racks to business owners. Racks are required to be install for all new projects. • One GPAC member referenced the “Future of Transportation” event held last year in Oxnard, that suggested our communities are at or near peak car usage. Noting that we should start to plan for a decrease in the number of vehicles on the road.
Regarding bike lanes, they commented that many streets are deliberately or unintentionally hostile for bicyclists, including Borchard Road and portions of Reino Road, where there are long stretches of brick wall. They suggested that the City make more accessible routes, or identify alternative routes, so cyclists do not have to use unsafe streets. Also noting that freeway crossings currently divide the city in two for cyclists.
• One GPAC member strongly endorsed making the city safer for pedestrians and cyclists. They questioned the feasibility and effectiveness of using painted buffers on existing bike lanes. They also questioned whether adding park-n-ride transit routes have ever been considered, such as, to the Civic Arts Plaza, Oaks Mall, Janss Marketplace, or the DMV. City staff responded that the current demand is not high enough to support such a specific route within Thousand Oaks Transit. Park-n-ride efforts exist with regional agencies.
• One GPAC member asked if the city would consider narrowing some streets for safety purposes, where streets appear wide for the posted speed limit or where kids need to cross the street, such as Kimber Drive. The project team noted this is a design consideration that can be incorporated into design recommendations.
Public Comments
Six members of the public registered to speak during public comment within the zoom meeting. Below are summaries of their public comments.
• One member of the public commented that they logged on because they were curious, but felt it was a good presentation and had no further comments. • One member of the public encouraged that we not lose the character of the community and the vision set forth in the original General Plan. Less improvements are needed.
• One member of the public referenced Chapter 5 of the original General Plan Conservation Element and questioned why the most recent Conservation Element does not include references to the Cultural Heritage Board, nor community cultural resources, such as the previous City Hall and Timber School. • One member of the public stated that our decisions will impact many lives. We need to preserve our small-town character.
• One member of the public stated they want no more high-density projects, such as the Lupe’s project. Thousand Oaks has the highest temperature increase in California. How does density address climate change?
• One member of the public mentioned the Amgen Cycling Club’s letter to the GPAC, encouraging support of cyclists and continuing to make Thousand Oaks a cycling destination within Southern California.
Two public comments were submitted through Poll Everywhere (in addition to those listed above).
• Promoting electric bikes can help solve topography issues and the more challenging problem, looking into how to decouple cyclists and pedestrians from cars trying o enter/exit the freeways without angering drivers.
• The Amgen Cycling club submitted a letter to the GPAC, but I would like to reiterate a few points regarding the main issues mentioned in the presentation, topography and freeway crossing challenges.
Wrap-up and Next Steps
Matt closed the meeting by reinforcing the many uncertainties still at play due to COVID-19 and mentioned that the team will revise the GPAC and project schedule in the coming weeks to reflect the new workflow.
Adjourn at 8:30 pm
Attached: Amgen Cycling Club letter to the GPAC
Note: this was a virtual meeting, therefore no sign-in sheets for the GPAC or public were collected
City of Thousand Oaks May 28, 2020
General Plan 2045
2100 Thousand Oaks Boulevard
Thousand Oaks, CA 91362
Dear General Plan Advisory Committee:
The Amgen Cycling Club has been around the Thousand Oaks community for over 15 years with 400 members working to increase biking enjoyability, safety, and accessibility for road, mountain, and commuting cyclists. Seeing that road biking and commuting by bicycle encompass transportation, we have ideas of how to form the 2045 General Plan which would improve enjoyability, safety, and accessibility for the entire community.
First, if biking is more convenient than driving, many people will choose to bike; if biking is as safe as driving, many people will choose to bike; if biking is about as easy as driving, many people will choose to bike.
Next, listed are a few ideas that would increase biking enjoyability, safety, and accessibility:
• Create directional, protected bike lanes with barriers from cars and pedestrians • Create wide bike lanes that allow cyclists to bike side-by-side (similar to the two front seats in a car)
• Create safe freeway crossings where bikes and cars do not compete for space • Identify crosstown routes with signage for tourists
• Encourage electric bikes to increase ridership and usefulness (e.g., small grocery trips) • Support cycling in the community by assuring businesses and public spaces have bike friendly amenities like racks and repair stands
Last, we believe that a city with exceptional biking resources creates less traffic, increases health, is better for the environment, and creates a better community than one requiring automobiles for even the smallest errand. Our goal is to make Thousand Oaks, which already has a great reputation for cycling, world-renowned for its amazing bike culture that takes advantage of its perfect weather and draws on its amazing landscape to support better living for all.
Sincerely,
Phil D. Clark, President
Tony Reed
Amgen Cycling Club
Thousand Oaks General Plan Update
Meeting #8 | July 23, 2020 | 6:00 to 8:00 pm
This meeting was held via Zoom and livestreamed to YouTube. Members of the public could register in advance to join the Zoom meeting to watch and/or make public comments, or view on YouTube and submit comments through the online comment forum, Poll Everywhere. • Provide a background on health, equity and environmental justice and their relationship to the General Plan
• Present existing conditions information on health status, social determinants of health, environmental pollution, and characteristics of the built environment that impact health.
• Discuss how recent events – COVID 19 and the killings of unarmed minorities – relate to the General Plan
• Brainstorm on goals and policies that can be include in the General Plan relating to the above topics
GPAC Members
• Present: Alicia Rincon, Amy Commans, Chaise Rasheed, Dr. Chris Kimball, Dustin Woomer, Emily Dale, Fred Fukanaga, Jacqueline Emanuel, Dr. Karen Gorback, Ken Lamont, Mic Farris, Nicholas Reale, Paul Shrater, Rorie Skei, Tara Carruth, Dr.
Victor Hayek, and Wyatt McCrea
• Absent: Andy Fox, Darren Bovard, Dena Jenson, Jennifer Lobenhofer, Laura Behjan, Michael Nigh, Patrick DuRoss
City Staff
• Ingrid Hardy, Assistant City Manager; Michael Forbes, Deputy Community Development Director; Kelvin Parker, Deputy Community Development Director; Kari Finley, Planning Manager; Krystin Rice, Senior Planner; Iain Holt, Senior Planner; Tabitha McAtee, Assistant Planner; James Fryhoff, Chief of Police Consultant Team
• Matt Raimi and Melissa Stark, Raimi + Associates
Guest Speaker
• Dr. Gregory Freeland, California Lutheran University
Presentation & Discussion
Matt Raimi kicked off the meeting with an overview of the evening’s agenda. Then Melissa Stark highlighted important Zoom features for GPAC members and how members of the public could participate in the meeting through Facebook or YouTube, the comments forum, and make public comment within the Zoom meeting.
After this overview, Matt Raimi introduced the guest speaker, Dr. Gregory Freeland , professor of Political Science, Director of the Global Studies Program, and faculty advisor to Model United Nations at California Lutheran University located in Thousand Oaks . Dr.
Freeland defined Environmental Justice and provi ded background on the history of environmental justice, racism, disadvantaged communities, and equity. He stated that land use planning and zoning should be race -neutral to avoid disproportionate effects on communities of color.
Following Dr. Freeland’s address, Matt Raimi began the evening ’s presentation by acknowledging the ongoing health and safety issues related to policing and protesting and how they correlate to equity and public health. Matt introduced equity, types of racism, social determinants of health, and components of healthy and equitable communities. Then, Matt followed with an overview of existing conditions in Thousand Oaks which included health outcomes, environmental justice and disadvantaged communities, and health and the built environment.
During the presentation, two questions were asked. Those questions and responses are listed below.
• Is gentrification a concern for Thousand Oaks ? The General Plan Team responded that Thousand Oaks does not have the gentrification disparities that the greater Los Angeles area has and does not have the desire to grow that would displace current residents.
• What types of industries are in Thousand Oaks that would create environmental issues? The General Plan team responded that various manufacturing, auto related uses, transportation, and even dry-cleaning businesses can contribute to pollution.
Members were invited to submitted questions and comments on the presentation through Poll Everywhere throughout the meeting. One comment was received during the presentation, which is listed below.
• From the information presented, it seems like the traffic and air quality are the main issues that affect our city the most.
Following the presentation, the General Plan Team posed a series of questions to spark discussion. Those questions and GPAC member responses are listed below. • What are the key issues and topics—related to health and equity—the General Plan should address?
o High housing and housing related costs.
o Homelessness, which disproportionately affects people of color. o Transportation as a means of accessing important social services. o Access to parks and open space that are not near the freeways. o Access to quality healthcare.
o Improved infrastructure and disadvantaged communities, especially older neighborhoods in need of repair and investment.
• What is your vision for a more equitable community?
o More accessible housing for different income levels to support the people that work in our community, which could make Thousand Oaks more diverse. o More apartments that are safe, clean, and healthy to rent. o More housing that is geared towards young professionals. o Accessible services for people experiencing homelessness, including transportation to existing Ventura County services, and a higher level of local year-round services.
• What are the health issues you are seeing in your work that relate to the built environment? o Diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.
o Lack of physical activity due to limited access.
o Access to affordable healthy foods is critical, especially for people with chronic health issues like diabetes.
• Thousand Oaks has become a highly desirable place to live, but as it has evolved it has closed the door for certain populations to live here. There is an opportunity to create a wider diversity of residents in Thousand Oaks, is that something we want to intentionally attract? If so, how?
o Thousand Oaks should highlight the welcoming environment and fair community.
o Address the bad reputation it has for not accepting people of color, there are misconceptions about people who live in Thousand Oaks , the city is now 31% non-White.
o Feel that Thousand Oaks is not a very racist place.
o Diversification of housing is needed, especially apartments and a variety of housing types to support the community.
o Address housing but preserve the good qualities of Thousand Oaks like natural beauty and ridgelines.
o Until recently, housing policy favored older generations at the expense of young people.
o There is a need to address the perception that law enforcement is overly aggressive and hostile to younger people and people of color in Thousand Oaks.
o Promote hiring minorities and pay ing higher wages to help diversify the community in Thousand Oaks.
• When you think about a healthy community, what do you think about? o Safe and healthy housing.
o Accessible and connected transportation system.
o Access to healthy foods.
o Access to important elements of living like i nformation, b roadband internet/Wi-Fi, education, retail, open space, parks, and trails. • What are things we should think about moving forward to improve health and equity? o Open space in almost every neighborhood and accessible sidewalks. o Well-lit streets that make it possible to walk at night. o Clean air and bike lanes to encourage biking.
o More apartment complexes to reduce the number of people commuting. o Buy electric when possible and limit fossil fuels.
o Improve accessibility, ADA standards should be a minimum threshold. • What is your vision for the future?
o Working together as a community.
o A network of services that are supported by the city. o Improved access to open space and bus transportation for people of all ages. o Transportation to critical public services.
o A community that is wired with internet access throughout the city. • Other comments and thoughts
o Access to healthy foods should also consider car ownership, as some people that live farther away from grocery stores own automobiles and are able to drive to access healthy foods.
o There is not just a single barrier to accessing public services, there are cumulative effects of other factors. Appreciative of the work done to find these areas with multiple factors affecting health.
o The income by race graph in the presentation did not reflect one GPAC member’s experiences and knowledge within the community. o Value and appreciate the health and equity conversations.
Public Comments
Members of the public registered in advance to speak during public comment within the zoom meeting. Below are summaries of the two public comments shared via Zoom. No public comments were submitted through Poll Everywhere.
• Ventura County’s temperature has increased 4 degrees in recent decades. This causes an increased risk for wildfire and extreme heat. There is a need for policies to mitigate this temperate rise such as:
o Ambitious native tree and planting strategy
o Green space enhancement
o Discourage use of plastics in community
o Require electrification of new housing
o Prohibit natural gas hookups
o Climate expertise in our General Plan, on the GPAC and in the plan itself The General Plan Team responded to this comment noting that s ustainability, climate, and resilience will be the topic of an upcoming GPAC meeting. The General Plan team has extensive climate and resilience expertise and it is an important component of the General Plan.
• There is a lack of multifamily housing in Thousand Oaks that is affordable, what is being built today is not affordable for most people. There is a desire to see thoughtfully designed housing options that address the needs of the community.
Adjourn at 8:05 pm
Note: this was a virtual meeting, therefore no sign-in sheets for the GPAC or public were collected Thousand Oaks General Plan Update
Meeting #9 | August 20, 2020 | 6:00 to 8:00 pm
This meeting was held via Zoom and posted to YouTube. Members of the public could register in advance to join the Zoom meeting to watch and/or make public comments, or view on YouTube and submit comments through the online comment forum, Poll Everywhere. • Provide a background on safety, natural hazards, and resilience and their relationship to the General Plan
• Present existing conditions information on earthquakes and seismic events, flooding, wildfires, extreme heat, community safety, contagious disease, policing, and public safety.
• Brainstorm on goals and policies that can be include in the General Plan relating to the above topics
GPAC Members
• Present: Chaise Rasheed, Darren Bovard, Dustin Woomer, Fred Fukanaga, Jacqueline Emanuel, Jennifer Lobenhofer, Ken Lamont, Laura Behjan, Mic Farris, Nicholas Reale, Rorie Skei, and Dr. Victor Hayek
• Absent: Andy Fox, Alicia Rincon, Amy Commans, Dr. Chris Kimball, Dena Jenson, Emily Dale, Dr. Karen Gorback, Michael Nigh, Patrick DuRoss, Paul Shrater, Tara Carruth, Wyatt McCrea
City Staff
• Michael Forbes, Deputy Community Development Director; Kelvin Parker, Deputy Community Development Director; Kari Finley, Planning Manager; Krystin Rice, Senior Planner; Iain Holt, Senior Planner; Tabitha McAtee, Assistant Planner; Helen Cox, Sustainability Division Manager; John Brooks, Senior Analyst; Grahame Watts, Disaster Services Coordinator
Consultant Team
• Matt Raimi and Melissa Stark, Raimi + Associates
• Joe Power and Andrew Hatt, Rincon Consultants
Presentation & Discussion
Matt Raimi kicked off the meeting with an overview of the evening’s agenda , followed by a review of key Zoom features and public participation opportunities shared by Melissa Stark.
Joe Power and Andrew Hatt of Rincon Consultants led the eve ning’s presentation which included an overview of the California planning regulatory context, Thousand Oaks’ climate action planning, and three areas of existing conditions background: safety, resiliency, and emergency response planning. Joe and Andrew hig hlighted existing City of Thousand Oaks policies and programs related to safety, resilience , and emergency response, and summarized recommendations for future programs and policies.
Throughout the presentation, the team paused to administer Zoom polls to engage the GPAC and spur conversation. Members of the public could participate in the polls through an online forum called, Poll Everywhere. These poll questions, responses, and related comments are listed below. Note: Not all GPAC members responded to each poll questions.
Poll 1. How prepared do you feel for future wildfires, compared to before the Hill/Woolsey Fire? Do you feel the City is prepared?
GPAC Comments
• The City is prepared for future wildfire events with the mobilized emergency preparedness operations center but need to continue the public information program to help homeowners prepare and protect their properties. • The location—being surrounded by open space—makes it impossible to prevent wildfires in Thousand Oaks. The City and building codes have done a great job protecting the area.
• Some Thousand Oaks neighborhoods have low car ownership and high populations of seniors and/or disabled people, which made evacuations challenging. During the 10%
35%
15%
30%
10%
0% 10% 20% 30% 40%
Very prepared
Prepared
Neutral
Not very prepared
Not prepared at all
GPAC Responses
25%
25%
25%
25%
0%
0% 10% 20% 30%
Very prepared
Prepared
Neutral
Not very prepared
Not prepared at all
Public Responses
latest fire, evacuation centers filled up very quickly and it was challenging disseminating information for where to take large animals. • The community and City responses to past wildfires were well-run; therefore I feel well prepared for the next wildfire.
• Based on the Woolsey fire, I feel less than prepared. Concerns from the Woolsey fire include, evacuation centers located very close to mandatory evacuation zones and freeways packed with everyone being told to leave at the same time. In the future, can we mitigate fire with strategic breaks or grazing?
o The General Plan Team responded that the City is not able to touch protected open spaces including removing or modifying brush.
Poll 2. How important is it for the General Plan Update to extensively address infectious diseases through planning and/or programs in light of the COVID-19 pandemic? GPAC Comments
• Planning for infectious disease is important, but not extensively. The location and details are the crux of the issue.
• Infectious disease is an issue bigger than Thousand Oaks, not sure what we can do differently than the County.
38%
29%
29%
0%
5%
0% 10% 20% 30% 40%
Very
important
Important
Neutral
Not very
important
Not important
at all
GPAC Responses
50%
25%
25%
0%
0%
0% 20% 40% 60%
Very
important
Important
Neutral
Not very
important
Not important
at all
Public Responses
Poll 3. Which natural disaster or event are you most concerned about in the City of Thousand Oaks? GPAC Comments
• Consider what is the immediate threat? Climate change is more long term, but wildfire threat is here today.
• Wildfires are most relevant in Thousand Oaks, and we need to consider what we have control over. We need to plan for the biggest issues that we can influence in the future.
• Extreme temperatures and heat with the aging community in Thousand Oaks is an issue. In the summer, some seniors avoid using their air conditioning due to the high utility costs. We need to tie the General Plan to housing and sustainable energy. • In terms of safety and resilience, Thousand Oaks has a good handle on things, the biggest issue is related to wildfires.
• Extreme heat is a big issue, fires are dramatic events that get a lot of attention, but people die due to extreme heat. We cannot prevent the extreme heat events, but the City can mitigate those events.
Note: One additional poll was schedule but due to time restrictions, the group skipped the fourth poll and discussion.
Discussion Question & Answer
Following the presentation and polls, the General Plan Team posed a series of questions to further the group discussion. Those questions and GPAC member responses are listed below. • What are some of the critical safety issues in Thousand Oaks and how can the General Plan begin to address these issues?
o Earthquakes should be expected and planned for in Thousand Oaks. o Loss of power and emergency management contingency plans should be in place.
38%
4%
58%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80%
Increased temperatures +
extreme heat
Precipitation, flooding +
drought
Wildfires + air quality
GPAC Responses
75%
0%
58%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80%
Increased temperatures
+ extreme heat
Precipitation, flooding +
drought
Wildfires + air quality
Public Responses
o Terrorism is a potential future threat.
o Plan for freeway bridge collapse during an earthquake or evacuation and have alternate routes.
o Plan for multiple disasters occurring at once in the future. o Evacuation routes and timing of evacuations is critical. • Regarding climate change and resilience, wh at programs and policies should we consider for the future? Is there anything we can do now to prepare? o Retrofitting of homes including water collection, house hardening, and educations to help individuals protect themselves.
• The General Plan Team asked City Staff to answer the following question: What safety and resilience issues should be included in the General Plan to help the City? o Individual preparedness is a top priority for successful emergency management.
o Water, energy, and food supplies are not under the City’s control. How does the city become more resilient and avoid these essential supplies being cut off due to a disaster?
o Should the city consider ways to be more energy resilience with a local supply? o Look into alternative water options and reclamation.
o Broader solar citywide to be more self-sufficient in the event of a disaster.
Other questions related to the presentation are listed below. • Are the number of hazardous materials sites in Thousand Oaks decreasing year after year?
o The General Plan Team responded that they do not have a comparison of previous year sites, but can look into those details, noting that the location of hazardous cleanup sites should be taken into consideration when planning for future housing.
One comment related to the presentation was submitted through Poll Everywhere, which is listed below.
• “On how prepared is the City for wildfires – I think some of the evacuations were parking lots rather than escape routes.”
Members of the public registered in advance to speak during public comment within the zoom meeting. Below are summaries of the three public comments shared via Zoom. One public comment was submitted through Poll Everywhere.
• Ventura County’s temperature has increased 4 degrees in recent decades. This causes an increased risk for wildfire, extreme heat, and heat related hospital
emissions. The Woolsey fire highlighted the need to anticipate multiple disaster events at the same time. How can I provide input to the City? o The General Plan Team noted that they would follow-up for an additional conversation related to safety and resilience.
• The COVD-19 pandemic has made it hard for the community to be involved and engaged in the General Plan. Some folks can’t get online for a Zoom meeting, we need to try to get them involved somehow. Is the General Plan the place to have evacuation plans for new buildings?
o The General Plan Team responded that the document references evacuation routes at a high level, but California Building and Safety Code includes more detailed evacuation guidelines and information on a smaller scale. The City also has emergency operations plans.
• Glad climate change is being covered as part of the General Plan Update, as adequate planning is essential for the community to do its part. Would like to see a climate advisory committee in the future.
• Submitted Via Poll Everywhere: “Reduce development and stop encroaching further into areas that are susceptible to wildfires. Promote electrification of all new buildings and retrofitting of existing buildings to reduce greenhouse gases.”
Matt Raimi closed the meeting and assigned homework for GPAC members to prepare for the next meeting by thinking about what sustainability means and define what a sustainable Thousand Oaks could look like in the future.
Adjourn at 8:05 pm
Note: this was a virtual meeting, therefore no sign-in sheets for the GPAC or public were collected Thousand Oaks General Plan Update
Meeting #10 | September 24, 2020 | 6:00 to 8:00 pm
This meeting was held via Zoom and livestreamed to YouTube. Members of the public could register in advance to join the Zoom meeting and/or make public comments, or view on YouTube and submit comments through an online comment forum. • Provide a background on sustainability topics and their relevance to the General Plan • Present existing conditions information on the evolution of urban sustainability plans, types of topics covered, best practices from other communities, and connections to regional and State policy.
• Come to a common understanding of the definition of sustainability for Thousand Oaks • Brainstorm on goals and policies that can be include in the General Plan relating to the above topics
GPAC Members
• Present: Andy Fox, Alicia Rincon, Amy Commans, Chaise Rasheed, Darren Bovard, Dustin Woomer, Emily Dale, Fred Fukanaga, Jacqueline Emanuel, Jennifer Lobenhofer, Dr. Karen Gorback, Ken Lamont, Laura Behjan, Mic Farris, Nicholas Reale, Patrick DuRoss, Rorie Skei, Dr. Victor Hayek, and Wyatt McCrea • Absent: Dr. Chris Kimball, Dena Jenson, Michael Nigh, Paul Shrater, and Tara Carruth
City Staff
• Ingrid Hardy, Assistant City Manager; Mark Towne, Community Development Director; Michael Forbes, Deputy Community Development Director; Kelvin Parker, Deputy Community Development Director; Kari Finley, Planning Manager; Krystin Rice, Senior Planner; Iain Holt, Senior Planner; Tabitha McAtee, Assistant Planner; Helen Cox, Sustainability Division Manager; John Brooks, Senior Analyst Consultant Team
• Matt Raimi, Walker Wells, Melissa Stark, and Sami Taylor, Raimi + Associates
GPAC MEETING #11 SUMMARY | 2
Matt Raimi welcomed GPAC members and the public w ith an overview of the evening’s agenda, followed by a review of key Zoom features and public participation opportunities shared by Melissa Stark.
Walker Wells and Helen Cox led the evening ’s presentation which included a n overview of environmental sustainability, climate action planning in California, and local sustainability policy, as well as current sustainability efforts in Thousand Oaks. The City’s 2018 Community Greenhouse Gas Emissions (GHG) inventory and recent community climate action planning survey results were shared for recent context and background. Matt then provided an overview of the connection between land use to transportation and GHG emissions.
Throughout the presentation, the team paused to pose and answer questions, administer Zoom polls , and to engage in conversation. Members of the public who joined the Zoom meeting could participate in the Zoom polls, while members of the public watching on YouTube could participate through an online forum. These questions, responses, and related comments are listed below. (Note: Not all GPAC members responded to each poll question.) Question: What does sustainability mean to you?
GPAC and public feedback:
• Sustainability means conservation and preservation of natural resources for future generations.
• Our ability to be self-sufficient for essentials like water and utilities including water reclamation.
• The World Health Organization’s definition of a livable community which is a safe, vibrant, growing place for people to live at all stages in their life, thinking about the future.
• Sustainability means the environment and how we protect our resources for future generations, considering climate change, drought, fires, pandemic, and how we handle them as a community.
• Sustainability means working with our environment to maintain quality of life for ourselves and those after us.
• Being sustainable means living within our means in terms of keeping our natural resources balanced.
• Consider the economic component along with the environmental impact.
Sustainability should also include “society” to ensure that all elements that make us functional are here in the future.
GPAC MEETING #11 SUMMARY | 3
Poll 1. How did you hear about this meeting?
Poll 2. How would you describe your knowledge about sustainability? Poll 3. What environmental sustainability topics are most important in Thousand Oaks?
0%
6%
48%
35%
10%
0% 20% 40% 60%
Never heard of it
Don't know much about
it
Somewhat informed
Very informed
Expert in the field
Zoom Responses*
0%
0%
20%
50%
30%
0% 20% 40% 60%
Never heard of it
Don't know much…
Somewhat informed
Very informed
Expert in the field
Public Online Forum
Responses
0%
0%
55%
10%
0%
29%
3%
3%
0% 20% 40% 60%
Acorn Ad
CLU
TO2045 email
GoGreen email
I'm a GPAC member
Other
Friend or Neighbor
City website
Zoom Responses*
0%
0%
64%
9%
0%
27%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80%
Acorn Ad
CLU
TO2045 email
GoGreen email
I'm a GPAC member
Other
Public Online Forum
Responses
3 5
4 10
15 6
5 11
10 3
0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16
Reducing building energy use
Water conservation
Waste reduction & recycling
Reducing GHG emissions
Protecting natural areas & open space
Protecting & expanding urban forest
Reducing stormwater runoff
Building compact development with a mix of uses
Expanding transit, bicycle & pedestrian infrastructure
Creating "green" jobs
Zoom Responses* (Select Multiple)
GPAC MEETING #11 SUMMARY | 4
*Zoom Responses include GPAC members and some members of the public who joined the virtual meeting.
Comments on the presentation:
GPAC member comments:
• California has a lot of environmental regulations. Can the City go beyond what is required by law in a City’s General Plan?
o The General Plan Team responded that California allows additional regulation beyond what is required by law. Cities can and do adopting more strict water standards, energy usage, and GHG targets, among others that are more stringent than the State’s. The City of San Luis Obispo is an example of a community that has implemented additional regulations in those areas. In Thousand Oaks we have the potential to establish policies that are stricter than the State’s baseline based on the community’s goals.
• The City should consider providing signs at parks reminding people to pick-up after themselves to maintain the quality of life in Thousand Oaks. • In the GHG inventory, trucks are separated out by light, medium, and heavy duty.
What an example of a light duty truck?
o The General Plan Team clarified that a light-duty truck refers to a pickup truck. • The City’s goal is 40% reduction by 2030, how much progress has been made? o The General Plan Team shared that Thousand Oaks has made a 25% reduction relative to 2010 levels. The City needs to extrapolate the reduction data and still has process to make in terms of reducing emissions.
• Transportation is a huge factor in Thousand Oaks. What is influencing VMT here, individuals or logistics transportation? How can the city reduce VMT? o The General Plan Team responded that most trips are local trips usually less than 5 miles. In Thousand Oaks, how can the city encourage people to use alternative transportation for short trips around town?
10%
17%
17%
24%
17%
3%
0%
3%
7%
0%
0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30%
Reducing building energy use
Water conservation
Waste reduction & recycling
Reducing GHG emissions
Protecting natural areas & open space
Protecting & expanding urban forest
Reducing stormwater runoff
Building compact development with a mix of uses
Expanding transit, bicycle & pedestrian infrastructure
Creating "green" jobs
Public Online Forum Responses (Select One)
GPAC MEETING #11 SUMMARY | 5
• Based on the City’s auto-oriented layout, how do we achieve reductions in GHG emissions from transportation. No one is walking 2 miles to go to the grocery store.
The city was laid out and oriented towards car use. What makes sense for Thousand Oaks? How do we pay for these things?
• Our current bus system does not run often enough to make it useful. Can we size the buses to be smaller and more efficient?
Public comments submitted through the online forum:
• “What is being done to help low wage workers afford housing in Thousand Oaks? Commuting from other cities is unsustainable due to increased GHG emissions. We need a serious plan to address this issue.”
• “Don’t eliminate natural gas from new homes and commercial.” • “SoCalGas is eager to share and enhance our local energy efficiency programs in the City, which reduced over 265,000 tons of CO2 emissions in 2019, as well as our developments with zero-and near-zero emission technologies.” • SoCalGas wants to congratulate the City of continually making environmentally sustainability a top priority, especially reflected in the General Plan Update. We look forward to collaborating with the city during this process.” • “SoCalGas is excited to explore opportunities to pursue potential strategies for promoting and using hydrogen fuel for both building and transportation technologies in pursuit of the City’s decarbonization goals.” • “I highly encourage the city to pursue use of fuel cell buses. They don’t have range of hill issues as electric buses and don’t require 30 minutes charging time or use harmful batteries (plagued with environmental pollution issues).” • “I am in support of mixed use, especially on Thousand Oaks Blvd.” Following the presentation, Q&A, and polls, the General Plan Team initiated 3 GPAC member and 2 public member Zoom breakout groups. The breakout groups discussed the three discussion questions below, with the assistance of a facilitator/note taker from the General Plan Team.
Breakout Group Discussion Questions
1. Issues: What are some of the critical sustainability issues and assets in Thousand Oaks?
2. Goals and Strategies: What should be the goals or outcomes for sustainability in Thousand Oaks? What strategies should the City use to achieve its vision for sustainability?
GPAC MEETING #11 SUMMARY | 6
3. GHG Reductions: The city needs to reduce transportation related emissions in order to achieve its GHG goals. Based on what you’ve heard tonight and what you know, what strategies should the City pursue?
The following are the results of the small group discussions for each group.
GPAC Group #1
• Issues/Assets:
o The layout of city, open space, and oak trees are assets in Thousand Oaks. o The business community is an asset, but the number of residents working outside the city and community is an issue.
o Desire to continue supporting businesses and encourage living and working in Thousand Oaks.
• Goals/Strategies
o Focus future change in key areas of the City like the 101-corridor. o Create strategies for reducing citywide emissions.
o Incentivize using other modes of transportation for short around-town trips. o Create sustainability policies that can be applied citywide.
GPAC Group #2
• Issues/Assets
o The existing lack of broadband access in areas of the city is an issue. o The b uilt-out development pattern that necessitates driving and makes transit, walking, and biking challenging is a sustainability issue as it increases GHG emissions.
o The ongoing dry conditions, drought, and wildfires are concerning. • Goals/strategies
o Work to improve the urban forest in Thousand Oaks by planting more trees. o Create more walkable destinations like village centers at strategic locations. o Normalize sustainability measures and thinking throughout all facets of the city (entertainment, business, residential, etc.).
• GHG reduction actions
o Reduce cross-city trips by improving walkability and creating village centers. o Offer m ore frequent bus service with direct trips to key destinations , like a direct shuttle to the Civic Arts Plaza on performance nights. o Encourage people to use other modes of transportation for short trips.
GPAC Group #3
• Issues/Assets
o Thousand Oaks is already a leader in environmental programs. o Focus future sustainability goals on the realities of the suburban layout of the City.
GPAC MEETING #11 SUMMARY | 7
o Desire to maintain strong businesses that are already located in Thousand Oaks and consider costs of new sustainability measures.
• Goals
o Seek a balanced approach to sustainability by weighing the benefits to the environment, impacts to businesses, and costs.
o Learn about sustainability measures from the businesses community that operate in the City (i.e., Amgen).
o Encourage or require businesses to incorporate sustainability when expanding in the city.
o Seek areas for higher density development like a downtown and promote living and working within the city.
Public Group #1
• Assets/Issues:
o Thousand Oaks has a lot of space devoted to overbuilt roads. o The development pattern in Thousand Oaks is intended for cars, which is not sustainable.
o The existing o pen space is an asset as well as city staff ’s knowledge of sustainability.
o The bus system in Thousand Oaks is an unused asset with a great potential. • Goals
o Address transportation emissions by offering EV incentives, encourage bicycling, building retrofits from gas to electric, and considering a tax gas in Thousand Oaks.
• GHG Reductions
o Consider re -zoning to allow mixed use in residential areas that would encourage greater self-sufficiency and require less trips by car. o Encourage r etrofitting of existing apartment complexes and condos with sustainability measures.
Public Group #2
• Assets/Issues:
o The city’s green space is a wonderful asset - continue to preserve green space in the future.
o The city’s s ize is an asset - the community can get in volved in planning activities, there is the ability to educate and engage folks on sustainability. o The dependence on imported water is an issue, water scarcity needs to be addressed.
• Goals
o Seek i ncentives to guide behavior changes that promote a more su stainable and self-sufficient community.
GPAC MEETING #11 SUMMARY | 8
o Engage youth and schools in the City’s efforts to increase sustainability. • GHG reductions
o Develop the necessary infrastructure to create a closed system that reduces waste, like microgrids.
o Create village centers or community hubs that include goods and services, green space, and meeting space with a safely integrated bicycle and pedestrian network.
Members of the public registered in advance to speak during public comment within the Zoom meeting. Below are summaries of the three public comments shared via Zoom . One public comment was submitted through the online comment forum. • Thousand Oaks should promote centralized village centers that offer daily goods and services that are connected to bike paths and can reduce the number of short vehicle trips across town.
• I appreciated the format of this GPAC meeting, a lot of good ideas came out of the small group discussions. The issue of our dependence on imported water is not sustainable, drought tolerant landscaping has helped, but we could be diverting a lot of water. We should use the maximum feasible graywater throughout the City. • Thousand Oaks needs to be more self-sufficient and not so reliant on imported water. Need to divert stormwater runoff into areas that can enhance natural wetlands and create new wetlands. We need to reduce concrete and impermeable surfaces as much as possible.
• Submitted Via online: “What is being done to help low wage workers afford housing in Thousand Oaks? Commuting from other cities is unsustainable due to increased GHG emissions. We need a serious plan to address this issue.”
Matt Raimi closed the meeting with an overview of the General Plan schedule and next steps.
Adjourn at 8:15 pm
Note: this was a virtual meeting, therefore no sign-in sheets for the GPAC or public were collected.
GPAC Breakout Group #1 Notes
• “Record” your small group discussion.
• “Screenshare” this page in your small group and take notes • If you run into issues, click “invite host”
• When you are finished discussing, “return to main session” or wait for the host to close the breakout group.
• Please take 30 seconds and introduce yourselves.
• The facilitator will serve as the groups note taker. Document all comments. • Please identify someone share a 1-2 minutes “report-out” with the rest of the group after this discussion.
• Spend approximately 10 minutes per question, the group does not need to reach a consensus. Different ideas are okay!
1. Issues: What are some of the critical sustainability issues and assets in Thousand Oaks?
Notes:
• Transportation is an issue
• Community that pulls together and recognizes that sustainability is an important issues – asset
• Commuter our out of the community is an issue
• People love the community for the suburban quality, lower density, open space.
• Supporting the business community in the context of COVID, how people purchase goods now and impact on commercial centers. Smart planning and flexibility.
• With changing climate – how we harden to be protected against wildfires.
• Bus system needs to be viable for those that are not able to drive. Runs too infrequently. Downsize the buses and talk to riders about the routes.
GPAC Breakout Group #1 Notes
Also make the buses electric. And make the system something that really works.
• Transit system was started to provide services to elderly people that needed service.
• Trail systems are well developed and connect out to Santa Mountains. • Open space.
For Report out: 2-3 Issues and Assets
1. _
2. _
3. _
2. Goals and Strategies: What should be the goals or outcomes for sustainability in Thousand Oaks? What strategies should the City use to achieve its vision for sustainability?
Notes:
• Old Lupes location is an example of what may take place in the future. • Need to have strategies that can address the 80% of the community that may be untouched. Hillside neighborhoods are not walkable. Need strategies for the vast majority of the community.
• Reach codes can come into play for the newer developments as they come on line. Solar, energy efficiency.
• Need to consider the business community as well as housing, as the diversity of land uses is critical to creating walkable places. • Preserve landmark oak trees. Ensure that the open spaces are protected for the future.
• Consistent communication about oak trees and the value of open space
For Report out: 2-3 goals for sustainability and strategies in Thousand Oaks
1. _
2. _
3. _
GPAC Breakout Group #1 Notes
3. GHG Reductions: Thousand Oaks needs to reduce transportation related emissions in order to achieve its GHG goals. Based on what you have heard tonight and what you know, what strategies should the City pursue? Notes:
• Reach codes
• Electric buses
• Support for electrical vehicle charging
• City could require businesses with large fleets to electrify sooner • Also trash collection, UPS, etc.
• Pick up trash as part of creating a culture of stewardship
For Report out: 2-3 GHG Reduction actions the City of Thousand Oaks should consider pursuing
1. _
2. _
3. _
GPAC Breakout Group #2 Notes
• “Record” your small group discussion.
• “Screenshare” this page in your small group and take notes • If you run into issues, click “invite host”
• When you are finished discussing, “return to main session” or wait for the host to close the breakout group.
• Please take 30 seconds and introduce yourselves.
• The facilitator will serve as the groups note taker. Document all comments. • Please identify someone to share a 1-2 minutes “report-out” with the rest of the group after this discussion.
• Spend approximately 10 minutes per question, the group does not need to reach a consensus. Different ideas are okay!
1. Issues: What are some of the critical sustainability issues and assets in Thousand Oaks?
Notes:
Asset
• Open Space, will & recognition on need for sustainability and acknowledging need to do something meaningful.
• Pandemic shows the critical need of stable internet and universally accessible.
• Water
• Baked in development pattern – is it enough to do some hi density considering mostly built-out
• Transportation
• Ongoing maintenance costs – (roads example)
• Structure hardening against wildfire
• Bikes need safe paths.
GPAC Breakout Group #2 Notes
For Report out: 2-3 Issues and Assets
1. _ universal broadband access
2. _ baked in development patterns
3. _ wildfire hardening
2. Goals and Strategies: What should be the goals or outcomes for sustainability in Thousand Oaks? What strategies should the City use to achieve its vision for sustainability?
Notes:
• State goals are minimum we need to hit.
• Solar assistance (financial)
• Improve urban forest –
• promoting local centers as walkable destinations.
• Term sustainability should become normalized (big cos. Orgs put on printed materials showing their commitment).
• Transit – higher frequency, make cool to use the bus.
For Report out: 2-3 goals for sustainability and strategies in Thousand Oaks
1. _ Improving urban forest
2. _norming sustainability
3. _walkable destinations
3. GHG Reductions: Thousand Oaks needs to reduce transportation related emissions in order to achieve its GHG goals. Based on what you have heard tonight and what you know, what strategies should the City pursue? Notes:
• Walkability, neighborhood centers
• Evs
• Smaller vehicles,
• Shuttles
GPAC Breakout Group #2 Notes
• Expanding bike network
• Reduce non-handicapped parking to reduce incentives to drive.
For Report out: 2-3 GHG Reduction actions the City of Thousand Oaks should consider pursuing
1. _ walkable centers
2. _ more frequent bus service
3. _promotion of alternate transportation
GPAC Breakout Group #3 Notes
• “Record” your small group discussion.
• “Screenshare” this page in your small group and take notes • If you run into issues, click “invite host”
• When you are finished discussing, “return to main session” or wait for the host to close the breakout group.
• Please take 30 seconds and introduce yourselves.
• The facilitator will serve as the groups note taker. Document all comments. • Please identify someone share a 1-2 minutes “report-out” with the rest of the group after this discussion.
• Spend approximately 10 minutes per question, the group does not need to reach a consensus. Different ideas are okay!
1. Issues: What are some of the critical sustainability issues and assets in Thousand Oaks?
Notes:
• T.O already leader in env programs. Would like to see City focus on realities of sustainability and how we pay for it. Long term vision to make areas (downtown) walkable. Get people out of cars. • Cost – huge part of it. City must partner with businesses. Don’t want to drive business away. Need balance that keeps business here. • Don’t want to lose businesses that are already here.
• Businesses looking for place for family, good school system, safety, infrastructure is attractive.
2. Goals and Strategies: What should be the goals or outcomes for sustainability in Thousand Oaks? What strategies should the City use to achieve its vision for sustainability?
Notes:
GPAC Breakout Group #3 Notes
• Balance – sustainability – business – cost.
• Learn from businesses that operate here (eg Amgen). They may have good ideas.
• Business/construction/growth/expansion efforts should incorporate sustainability ideas. Be cognizant of that with planning efforts. • Make sure costs of reduced emission vehicles isn’t excessive for residents (eg natural gas trash trucks)
• Limited capacity for buses here in T.O. because of low density. Best use for buses would be in higher density – eg on TO Blvd
• Can’t have lofty goals but need to be realistic and incremental. Eg strategic transportation (like beach bus), maybe Sat morning to Mall
3. GHG Reductions: Thousand Oaks needs to reduce transportation related emissions in order to achieve its GHG goals. Based on what you have heard tonight and what you know, what strategies should the City pursue? Notes:
• Need more effective options for moving from home to work. • Park n Rides not effective because where are people riding to? Park N Ride has to drop people off close to where they work.
• Living and working in same City could reduce miles.
• Biggest opportunity is to create housing opportunities close to goods and services, and make it walkable.
For Report out: 2-3 GHG Reduction actions the City of Thousand Oaks should consider pursuing
1. _
2. _
3. _
Public Breakout Group #1 Notes
• “Record” your small group discussion.
• “Screenshare” this page in your small group and take notes • If you run into issues, click “invite host”
• When you are finished discussing, “return to main session” or wait for the host to close the breakout group.
• Please take 30 seconds and introduce yourselves.
• The facilitator will serve as the groups note taker. Document all comments. • Please identify someone share a 1-2 minutes “report-out” with the rest of the group after this discussion.
• Spend approximately 10 minutes per question, the group does not need to reach a consensus. Different ideas are okay!
1. Issues: What are some of the critical sustainability issues and assets in Thousand Oaks?
Notes:
Assets
• Solar panels at community parks and TO mall
• Demographics of community – a lot more disposable income • Preserve diversity
• Open spaces are a huge asset; encourage community to embrace high density housing to support
• City staff
Issues/challenges
• City is built for cars; hard to do anything different • Transit is a great asset that no one is using
• Are there options for the individual to reduce driving • attitudes of community – need to explain why we are doing things • Trapped in low density pattern of development
Public Breakout Group #1 Notes
• Roads are overbuilt; can covert parts to ped/bike facilities – rethink how we use space to accommodate more compact development.
• Incorporate protected bikeways into TO blvd
For Report out: 2-3 Issues and Assets
1. _
2. _
3. _
2. Goals and Strategies: What should be the goals or outcomes for sustainability in Thousand Oaks? What strategies should the City use to achieve its vision for sustainability?
Notes:
• GHG emission reductions down to nothing as quickly as possible • Needs measurement
• Water use reductions
• City incentives for electric vehicles
• Cargo bikes
• Change awareness and community support; need to explain why its important to do these things
• Zero waste
• Transition away from gas connections; electrification of older buildings • Reach code – no gas
• Institute taxes on natural gas and give it back to pay for retrofits
For Report out: 2-3 goals for sustainability and strategies in Thousand Oaks
1. _
2. _
3. _
Public Breakout Group #1 Notes
3. GHG Reductions: Thousand Oaks needs to reduce transportation related emissions in order to achieve its GHG goals. Based on what you have heard tonight and what you know, what strategies should the City pursue? Notes:
• Retrofit of existing multifamily buildings to install charging ports • Allow mixed use
• Densify without reducing community character – ADUs
• Commercial corridors allowing housing and mixed use
For Report out: 2-3 GHG Reduction actions the City of Thousand Oaks should consider pursuing
1. _
2. _
3. _
Public Breakout Group #2 Notes
• “Record” your small group discussion.
• “Screenshare” this page in your small group and take notes • If you run into issues, click “invite host”
• When you are finished discussing, “return to main session” or wait for the host to close the breakout group.
• Please take 30 seconds and introduce yourselves.
• The facilitator will serve as the groups note taker. Document all comments. • Please identify someone share a 1-2 minutes “report-out” with the rest of the group after this discussion.
• Spend approximately 10 minutes per question, the group does not need to reach a consensus. Different ideas are okay!
1. Issues: What are some of the critical sustainability issues and assets in Thousand Oaks?
Notes:
- Natural environment as an asset
o Parkway trees to provide shade
- Wildfire risk, water scarcity are threats – develop local water supplies and reduce dependence on imported water
- Protect open space and trees to provide cooling effects and reduce urban warming through shade and evapotranspiration – reduce AC load - Space for trees and nature within the City
- Size of the city is manageable, allows for civic engagement and public participation
- Measures to capture stormwater and redirect into wetlands o Permeable pavement
o Preserve natural waterways – partner with county flood control district, naturalize the flood channels/remove concrete
- Require greywater systems in new construction and in remodels Public Breakout Group #2 Notes
- Public awareness and education of the community
o Behavioral change and sustainable choices
o Provide incentives to guide behavior change
- Solid waste contract negotiations – tiered pricing, charge per weight/vol.
For Report out: 2-3 Issues and Assets
1. Expansion of open space, urban greenery and trees to reduce urban heat island
2. Size of City – accessible planning initiatives, ability to engage/educate the community
3. Water – scarcity, stormwater redirection into natural areas and wetlands, groundwater recharge and percolation
2. Goals and Strategies: What should be the goals or outcomes for sustainability in Thousand Oaks? What strategies should the City use to achieve its vision for sustainability?
Notes:
- Circular economy to reduce waste – design systems and infrastructure - Involve youth and schools
- Microgrids and hydrogen fuel cells to provide back-up power and to power bus fleet
For Report out: 2-3 goals for sustainability and strategies in Thousand Oaks
1. Incentives to guide behavior change
2. Involve youth and partner with schools to spread awareness
3. _
3. GHG Reductions: Thousand Oaks needs to reduce transportation related emissions in order to achieve its GHG goals. Based on what you have heard tonight and what you know, what strategies should the City pursue? Public Breakout Group #2 Notes
Notes:
- Concern over Thousand Oaks Blvd. density and mixed-use because might create congestion
o Identify other business hubs to develop town squares, gathering places, gardens, bike network
- Use transit to connect high traffic destinations like schools, malls, etc o Park once destinations
- Public EV charging stations
For Report out: 2-3 GHG Reduction actions the City of Thousand Oaks should consider pursuing
1. Circular economy
2. Village centers with open space throughout town – accessible to more people and households with safe bike/ped network
3. Microgrids – neighborhood resilience hubs
Emailed comment received by CTO Friday, September 25, 2020
I briefly mentioned two suggestions last night in our break-out room. I've written them out below with more details.
An incentive for residential solid waste reduction:
Our city can negotiate solid waste contracts which offer reduced cost rates for customers who receive monthly, rather than weekly pick up service. Specially marked or colored containers could be used which are only picked up on the first regular neighborhood pick up day of the month.
Offering a significant cost saving incentive will encourage people to find ways to decrease their waste - such as by buying less single use plastics and packaging. ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������s in solid waste fees. We receive a $3.52 discount from Newbury Disposal Inc. for using a smaller trash container which takes us a month to fill. A discount should be offered that is more proportional to the value of the trash reduction.
My other suggestion is to encourage less water waste.
Dependence on imported water leaves our city vulnerable to disruptions and is not sustainable. The movement to drought tolerant landscaping has helped. Another way to use less water is to divert some of the mostly clean imported water now being sent through our Hill Canyon Wastewater Treatment Plant.
Permits for all new homes and for kitchen or bathroom remodeling should require maximum feasible greywater reuse systems. There are many designs available for low cost systems that can irrigate plants and trees.
Recycling household greywater for gardening use is an excellent way to be more sustainable, use less imported water, and save money.
The added installation cost will pay for itself from reduced water bills over time.
Email received by CTO Monday, September 28, 2020
SMALL GROUP DISCUSSION WORKSHEET GPAC #10: Sustainability September 24, 2020
1. Issues: What are some of the critical sustainability issues and assets in Thousand Oaks?
a) Our natural environment, native trees, open spaces and ridgelines, and surrounding natural vegetation are the draw that brought so many of us to this area and make our city a beautiful, pleasant refuge in which to live and recreate.
b) ��������������������������������������������������������������ature has already increased 4.7F degrees (2.6C) since 1895, making the county in which Thousand Oaks is located the fastest warming county in the continental United ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������mperature is projected to SOAR 3-5F degrees HIGHER in the inland and elevated areas of our county, including here in Thousand Oaks. That translates to 27 extra days per year of 90-plus-degree heat and a 700% increase in days topping 100 degrees, by mid-century. Thus extreme heat, and the wildfire risk and water scarcity driven by extreme heat, are serious and accelerating threats to our community. c) Our city size is both an asset and an issue. It's small town character makes for a cohesive, supportive community; but it's widespread design makes walking and cycling from place to place largely impractical.
d) Solid waste needs to be reduced and reused to the maximum extent feasible.
2. Goals and Strategies: What should be the goals or outcomes for sustainability in Thousand Oaks? What strategies should the City use to achieve its vision for sustainability?
a) We must proactively preserve and expand tree canopy coverage, gardens, greenery and nature surrounding and within our city to reduce runaway urban heat island impacts through increased shade and evapo-transpiration.
b) We must develop local water sources and decrease dependence on imported water supplies. To that end, we must stop concreting natural areas. All new construction should be LEED-certfied and should require the use of only permeable pavers/paving. All remodels must also require the use of only permeable pavers/paving; and incentives should be developed for retrofits of existing pavements to permeable designs so as to allow for the recharge of natural aquifers. Permits for new construction, and kitchen and bathroom remodeling, should also require maximum feasible gray-water systems that divert nearly-clean wastewater to landscape irrigation. In addition, all storm and flood waters currently flowing into street drains must be redirected into our remaining natural wetlands and/or into artificially created wetland areas to ensure maximum recharge of aquifers.
c) Rather than overbuilding Thousand Oaks Blvd and encouraging everyone in the community to drive to and congregate downtown, we should consider creating centralized neighborhood hubs/town squares ... ideally by making use of and refurbishing vacant space (rather than building new) in areas where shopping, retail and entertainment is already concentrated. These hubs should be made compelling and attractive by incorporating abundant trees, gardens, open spaces, parks, and ample vegetation; should be within walking/cycling distance of their surrounding neighborhoods; and should include fleets of rental bicycles for the previous purpose. Hubs within the city should also be connected to one another, and to high travel areas (the Civics Arts Center; local colleges, middle and high schools for opening, closing and special events; malls, libraries, farmers markets, open spaces, sports playfields, etc) by clean-energy (ie:
electric, NOT fossil gas) powered public transit designed to reflect the character of our community.
d) Before approval of any permits for all new construction going forward, the City must consider the wildfire safety and disaster evacuation impacts of said project on the entire community (including impacts resulting from said developments' resident density in relation to available egress roads and its contribution to potentially unsafe congestion on evacuation routes out of the city under multiple, simultaneous, disaster scenarios).
3. GHG Reductions: Thousand Oaks needs to reduce transportation related emissions in order to achieve its GHG goals. Based on what you have heard tonight and what you know, what strategies should the City pursue?
a) An expanded tree canopy and natural vegetation citywide will reduce the need for air conditioning, which in turn will reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
b) Ideally we want people to work, shop and play in the same communities where they live, so as to reduce commutes, traffic congestion, and pollution. Realizing this ideal requires both affordable local housing (to reduce GHG emissions generated by workers commuting here from out of town, because they're priced out of renting/buying locally) and more good-paying job opportunities for local residents (especially for our grown adult children who want to continue living in our community past their schooling years), both of which Thousand Oaks lacks in adequate numbers. It would also require raising public awareness of these needs, perhaps by encouraging more telecommuting and by implementing incentives to hire local residents through a citywide "hire-local" campaign. That said, concentrating employment, retail and recreation in one extended "downtown" strip will encourage even larger numbers of residents to drive to and congregate all along T.O. Blvd and will actually attract and magnify traffic congestion and pollution ... because our city is already sprawled out and, as Helen Cox said at the meeting, we're not going to change that now. Strategically-located, orbital neighborhood, small business/grocery/park/garden/entertainment hubs (think European town squares) ... fashioned from renovating/refurbishing vacant space in existing business "centers" (and perhaps adding smaller gathering spots throughout the city where needed) ... each with their own rental bicycle fleets (like New York City) might make more sense ... with clean-energy (ie: electric, NOT fossil gas) powered public transit connecting these hubs to one another and to other already highly trafficked locations (middle and high schools, local colleges, malls, the Civics Arts Center, sports playfields, libraries, open space areas, etc.) within the city. A network of walking and protected biking paths (to ensure less-experienced cyclists feel safe) could connect neighborhoods to their hubs, and perhaps to other hubs. These hubs could also include small housing units made more affordable by incorporating shared common spaces. All new, remodeled, and renovated development should be required to be all-electric (no fossil gas lines or appliances) and equipped with both clean energy (solar photo-voltaic) micro-grids (for community resilience) and EV-charging stations (for cars and bicycles). Every hub should also have ample park space, public garden, vegetation and tree canopy coverage requirements. Longer distance public transit could include park-n-rides placed close to the northern, southern and easternmost hubs to connect them to other nearby cities.
c) Develop a comprehensive, citywide circular economy plan to reduce disposal of as much waste as possible and to instead reuse as many resources as possible. Provide incentives to reduce solid waste, including by reducing rates for people who need less frequent (perhaps monthly or every-other-weekly) trash pick-up & identified by specific bins.
d) Educating our residents about how unsustainable practices negatively impact each of us as individuals, and about how developing more sustainable habits can improve the quality of both our community and our everyday lives, together with providing incentives to guide the sustainable behaviors we want to see, is an inexpensive solution to reducing GHG emissions. People care but often don't have the knowledge or time to connect the dots and explore and implement emissions reductions strategies on their own.
e) Involve City youth in problem solving, to engage, empower and draw on their creative perspective.
Thousand Oaks General Plan Update
Meeting #11 | October 22, 2020 | 6:00 to 8:00 pm
This meeting was held via Zoom and livestreamed to YouTube. Members of the public could register in advance to join the Zoom meeting and/or make public comments, or view on YouTube and submit comments through an online comment forum.
• Provide context for arts and culture in the General Plan. • Provide an overview of Thousand Oaks’ arts and cultural ecosystem, including City programs, community cultural assets, and the creative economy.
• Share observations on Thousand Oaks’ cultural ecosystem and identify opportunities to be considered for the General Plan.
• Brainstorm issues, goals and strategies relating to the above topics that can be included in the General Plan.
GPAC Members
• Present: Chaise Rasheed, Dustin Woomer, Fred Fukanaga, Jacqueline Emanuel, Jennifer Lobenhofer, Ken Lamont, Laura Behjan, Mic Farris, Nicholas Reale, Paul Shrater, Rorie Skei, Tara Carruth, Dr.
Victor Hayek, and Wyatt McCrea
• Absent: Andy Fox, Alicia Rincon, Amy Commans, Dr. Chris Kimball, Darren Bovard, Dena Jenson, Emily Dale, Dr. Karen Gorback, Michael Nigh, and Patrick DuRoss City Staff
• Mark Towne, Community Development Director; Michael Forbes, Deputy Community Development Director; Kelvin Parker, Community Development Director; Kari Finley, Planning Manager; Krystin Rice, Senior Planner; Iain Holt, Senior Planner; Tabitha McAtee, Assistant Planner; Jonathan Serret, Deputy Cultural Affairs Director; Health Cousin, Library Services Director; Dusty Russell, Assistant Economic Development Analyst
Consultant Team
• Matt Raimi and Melissa Stark, Raimi + Associates
• Linda Flynn and David Plettner-Saunders, Cultural Planning Group
GPAC MEETING #11 SUMMARY | 2
Matt Raimi welcomed GPAC members and the public with an overview of the evening’s agenda, followed by a review of key Zoom features and public participation opportunities shared by Melissa Stark.
David Plettner -Saunders led the evening ’s presentation which included a n overview of arts and culture in Thousand Oaks, state and local policies, and community engagement surrounding arts and culture in the General Plan. Jonathan Serret provided an update on virtual community programming in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and shared details of some of the recent performances . Existing conditions, like cultural programs, the Civic Arts Plaza and Bank of American Performing Arts Center, and a description of the local creative economy were shared for context and to illustrate the connection between arts and culture and the Thousand Oaks economy.
Throughout the presentation, the team paused to answer questions, administer Zoom polls, and to engage in conversation. Members of the public who joined the Zoom meeting could participate in the Zoom polls, while members of the public watching on YouTube could participate through an online forum. These questions, responses, and related comments are listed below. (Note: Not all GPAC members responded to each poll question.)
Poll 1. Thinking pre-COVID, how would you describe your participation in arts and cultural activities? *Zoom Responses include GPAC members and some members of the public who joined the virtual meeting.
Comments on the presentation:
GPAC member comments:
• The presentation refers to a traditional arts audience, how is that defined? o The General Plan Team responded that arts audience in the United States is typically correlated with education and income, the Thousand Oaks community is both affluent and well-educated.
42%
26%
29%
3%
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50%
Frequent (12+ per year)
Occasional (6-12 per
year)
Once in a while (<6 per
year)
Not at all
Zoom Responses*
67%
33%
0%
0%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80%
Frequent (12+ per year)
Occasional (6-12 per
year)
Once in a while (<6 per
year)
Not at all
Public Online Forum
Responses
GPAC MEETING #11 SUMMARY | 3
• There is $840 million dollars in sales related to the Thousand Oaks creative economy. Does that include outside productions that film in Thousand Oaks? o The General Plan Team responded that the income is reported based on where the business is located. Noting that employment may capture outside businesses who film in Thousand Oaks.
• To raise funds for the arts, I suggest we offer raffles. Raffles could be supported by the private sector and could offer tickets to a performance at the Civic Arts Plaza. • We should ask the public what kind of programming they want to see in the future and advertise on the City’s website and in the TO Acorn.
• Do we have data on the age groups who attend shows at the Civic Arts Plaza? The current programing seems to speak to older generations.
o The General Plan Team responded that both theaters use Ticketmaster for ticket sales, which tracks age demographics information but only in relation to the purchaser. The current method of determining what audiences want to see has been more trial and error. The theaters’ stadium-style seating is great for traditional performing arts and audiences who want to be seated – however, younger demographics are looking for opportunities to stand and venues that allow for more movement.
Poll 2. Thinking about the creative life of Thousand Oaks, which three of the following area more important to you? (Pick three)
*Zoom Responses include GPAC members and some members of the public who joined the virtual meeting.
12%
24%
24%
8%
16%
16%
0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30%
Develop community art program
Vibrant Cultural scene
Enhanced art facilities/programs
Arts-centric areas
Increase support for arts
Increased arts learning for youth
Zoom Responses*
25%
0%
25%
25%
25%
0%
0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30%
Develop community art program
Vibrant Cultural scene
Enhanced art facilities/programs
Arts-centric areas
Increase support for arts
Increased arts learning for youth
Public Online Forum Responses
GPAC MEETING #11 SUMMARY | 4
Questions from non-GPAC members during the Zoom meeting:
• Can you clarify what the 14% of all jobs statistic refers to? o David responded that the 14% refers to creative occupations in Thousand Oaks. • How does the city compare to other cities in California, are we on par? What is your take on Thousand Oaks’ standing?
o David responded that Thousand Oaks is doing very well compared to other cities, nearly identical to Los Angeles County which is arguably one of the most creative Counties. The City has a high presence of creative professions that is an opportunity to capitalize on in the future.
• What does public art refer to?
o The General Plan team responded that a formal public or percent-for-art program refers to art that is accessible to all. This can include enhancements to buildings, integrated in public and private space, or be more flexible like a pop-up event. • What is the motivation for this study? Is it an outlet for creatives or for economic development? o The General Plan team responded that the General Plan is a long-term policy document that is required by state law. There are required topics like land use, transportation, housing, open space, air quality, among others, but Cities can include other topics that are important or reflective of their community. Thousand Oaks chose to include an Arts and Culture chapter of the General Plan. The process of creating this chapter started with stakeholder interviews, existing conditions research, and is now moving into policy ideas. This meeting is to establish what topics or policies should be included in the General Plan and to help establish a vision for arts and culture in the future. • (Submitted via online) Will you bring up solutions to meet the needs expressed? o We are transitioning from understanding the issues to thinking through policy ideas to address those issues – which we will start to discuss in our small groups later tonight.
No public comments or questions on the presentation were submitted through the online forum.
Following the presentation, the General Plan Team initiated two GPAC member and three public member Zoom breakout groups. The breakout groups discussed the discussion questions below.
Breakout Group Discussion Questions
1. Issues: What are some of the current arts and cultural issues in Thousand Oaks?
2. Goals and Strategies: What should the future of arts and culture in Thousand Oaks look like?
3. Economic Development: What arts and cultural strategies should the City pursue to support economic development? How can economic development investments support the arts? The following are the results of the small group discussions for each group.
GPAC MEETING #11 SUMMARY | 5
GPAC Group #1
• Issues/Assets:
o Affordability and access to arts and cultural performances o Availability of a city-wide calendar of arts and cultural events o Funding issues post-COVID
o Lack of local musicians
• Goals/Strategies:
o A unified arts curriculum for schools
o Broader and more diversity of community programming throughout Thousand Oaks o Events and programs targeted at younger audiences (20-40 years of age) o Connect the arts and culture talent across Thousand Oaks o A public art program
• Economics:
o Establish an arts and culture district that can apply for grant funding o Create a widespread arts and culture support program to infuse the arts structurally around the community
GPAC Group #2
• Issues/Assets:
o Lack of diversity of offerings citywide, need to appeal to a younger audience and build in affordability
o Identify a Thousand Oaks arts and culture identity that balances both nation al and local performers/acts
o Lack of flexible performance spaces, especially outdoor spaces o Increase awareness of and promote existing community arts and culture events and performances
• Goals/strategies:
o Capitalize on and continue virtual performances as they are very accessible and affordable o Re-evaluate restrictions (i.e., noise restrictions) that may limit performance venues o Continue and expand support for youth, local artists and performers • Economics:
o Address land use and permitting barriers to small/flexible venues. o Include arts and entertainment in Campus Master Plan.
Public Group #1
• Assets/Issues:
o Lack of space for artists to display and sell their work in the community o Desire to make Civic Arts Plaza performances more community oriented • Goals/Strategies:
o Include an outdoor amphitheater or European town center to support community and arts GPAC MEETING #11 SUMMARY | 6
o Represent the residents and artist s of Thousand Oaks, focus on General Plan slogan “rooted in community”
o Increase awareness of arts and culture, including social media presence Public Group #2
• Assets/Issues:
o Thousand Oaks lacks a cultural identity
o Increase community engagement and awareness for new arts and cultural developments in the city
o Financial and physical access barriers to arts and culture in Thousand Oaks • Goals/Strategies:
o Integrate experiential art into the Downtown (and the Downtown Plan) o Help remove barriers to arts and culture by working with the school district to include arts integration
o Art should be participatory and more diverse across the city (i.e., pop -up events and drive-in movies)
o Develop a citywide arts and business council
Public Group #3
• Assets/Issues:
o Lack of coordination between arts and culture community o Lack of access to performing and meeting space throughout the city o Lack of diversity of audience, performers and practitioners, and art forms • Goals:
o Collaborations with business leaders and private sector to increase arts in community o Introduce a community arts and culture calendar and a “brag” site to showcase community talents and events
o Create a new city Arts Coordinator position to coordinate in ternally with agencies, organizations, talent, and externally with the community No public comments were shared during the Zoom meeting or submitted via the public comment forum online.
Matt Raimi closed the meeting with an overview of the General Plan schedule and next steps.
Adjourn at 8:05 pm
Attached are small group discussion worksheets from all facilitators and some participants.
Note: this was a virtual meeting, therefore no sign-in sheets for the GPAC or public were collected.
GPAC Group #1 Discussion Notes
• “Record” your small group discussion.
• “Screenshare” this page in your small group and take notes • If you run into issues, click “invite host”
• When you are finished discussing, “return to main session” or wait for the host to close the breakout group.
• Please take 30 seconds and introduce yourselves.
• The facilitator will serve as the groups note taker. Document all comments. • Please identify someone share a 1-2 minutes “report-out” with the rest of the group after this discussion.
• Spend approximately 10 minutes per question, the group does not need to reach a consensus. Different ideas are okay!
1. Issues: What are some of the current arts and cultural issues in Thousand Oaks? Notes:
• Type of programming at the Civic Arts Plaza – need for broader, diverse programming appealing to all
• Affordability of the arts; access for all
• Master calendar for the arts; clearer relevant and updated information for happenings – age, family, cultural, etc.
• Previous art walk was a huge success – revisit arts events, walks, etc. • Funding – post COVID – municipal budgets are stressed • Community wide arts for all – is there an umbrella funder for other programming? (i.e. local arts agency)
• Younger target (20-40) programming – there is none! – concerts in the parks would be an example of a great event.
• Lack of local musicians at coffee shops; nontraditional spaces; • Areas of TO area arts desert – example: Newbury Park – have to drive across town during rush hour.
GPAC Group #1 Discussion Notes
2. Goals: What should the future of arts and culture in Thousand Oaks look like? Notes:
• Know where to go and what going on; filled with events throughout the city
• More diversity of programming
• More diversity of venues
• Programming for all ages – more for younger generations • Arts opps that are accessible and affordable
• Fair and accessible Arts education
• Public art integrated into daily lives – (TO feels relatively sterile in interacting with art during the day).
• Integrate art into architecture and landscape
• The talent in the community – how to get them involved and connect to community? (guest speakers, school partnerships, youth)
3. Economic Development: What arts and cultural strategies should the City pursue to support economic development? How can economic development investments support the arts?
Notes:
• Arts districts
• Establish a structure/framework in the City to develop and provide arts outside of the Civic Arts plaza.
For Report out: 2-3 arts and cultural strategies the City of Thousand Oaks should consider pursuing
1. _
2. _
3. _
GPAC Group #2 Discussion Notes
• “Record” your small group discussion.
• “Screenshare” this page in your small group and take notes • If you run into issues, click “invite host”
• When you are finished discussing, “return to main session” or wait for the host to close the breakout group.
• Please take 30 seconds and introduce yourselves.
• The facilitator will serve as the groups note taker. Document all comments. • Please identify someone share a 1-2 minutes “report-out” with the rest of the group after this discussion.
• Spend approximately 10 minutes per question, the group does not need to reach a consensus. Different ideas are okay!
1. Issues: What are some of the current arts and cultural issues in Thousand Oaks? Notes:
• Many arts choices don’t cater to a younger or diverse demographic. Civic Arts Plaza doesn’t offer what he’s interested in and sometimes it’s too expensive. TO doesn’t offer much “edge” to its programming. Maybe this is not a City function and can be offered by private organizations. • Piggy-backing on this, we’re near Los Angeles, cuts both ways. LA draws national acts - Pantages, Disney Hall - so it’s tough for TO to figure out its identity. Where do we fit in the artist identity/ community? We’re regional but high quality. Audiences can go to LA for quality at near the same price.
• Know theater well. Before shows transfer to Broadway, they do out of town tryouts. Can be all over. Some places pick up on these future hits.
With the Kavli, such a large theater, it would be a good venue for out-of- town tryouts. And if transfer to Broadway, it puts the City on the map.
GPAC Group #2 Discussion Notes
• Echoing comments…a lot of times she hears about shows after the fact.
Even being tuned into social media and visiting City Hall, shocked to know about the many other venues in TO. Didn’t know about these resources. An opportunity to promote and cross-promote. • As a teen in the city, know there are opportunities for her age group, but cost is sometimes to high. It’s a turn-off! And youth often don’t know about what’s going on.
• Lack of outdoor venues and informal, flexible venues contributes to lack of programming diversity.
• TO has free public concerts in the park – pass the hat! The programs are free but many will contribute voluntarily.
• Campus Master Plan includes an outdoor amphitheater. This may provide more entertainment outdoors. Exciting!
• CLU has a good Shakespeare program. Promoting it more. Also, don’t know about (visual) art opportunities in TO. Not a huge part of TO. • College age people – ask them what they want to see, hear. TO Acorn, local newspaper, is a great source of information. TO website. There are more ways to get people informed.
For Report out: 2-3 arts and cultural issues
1. Lack of diversity in programming in terms of age, taste, cost.
2. Programming is sometimes bland, not edgy. Opportunity to refine TO’s cultural identity.
3. Need for better promotion of what’s offered. Can make better use of existing communications (local newspaper, city website) but also need better marketing and promotion.
4. Need for more diverse venues, including smaller, flexible, outdoor, informal. Like arts as additions to places, like coffeehouse, that aren’t all about the arts.
2. Goals: What should the future of arts and culture in Thousand Oaks look like? Notes:
• Diverse presentations.
• Different sized venues to handle different types of artists, less expensive than the BAPAC. They can be private and don’t have to be all arts. Liked a coffee house in Santa Clarita that had music five night a week – no cover! We don’t have much of this in TO. Keep costs down, offer things that cater to different tastes.
GPAC Group #2 Discussion Notes
• Concerts in park, have gone with parents, but bands target an older demographic. Want bands interesting for teens.
• In Denver, there is a School of Rock event. Different bands over several days, a music festival downtown. Diversity of shows catered to everyone.
Classical to rock to country. Mixed it up. An interesting event and brought out very diverse audience.
• Camarillo has movies in park in summer, include junior and high school bands perform.
• Create places for local artists to perform or display their art – it’s great for the community.
• Provide venues that local, emerging artists can use and promote throughout the county. Shows, festivals with newer artists. Talented people needing a break. This could put city on map – a festival for the unknown talented artist.
• Post-COVID, keep some virtual programming. It’s good in preparation for future pandemics but some virtual art increases access, those who are homebound or can’t pay to attend certain events.
• UCSB has been having virtual programming – music and speakers – allows people outside the community to attend. Can still open up virtual seats, once COVID is over.
• Agree, museums have been successful in transferring to virtual access.
This can offer cross-medium opportunities, a museum with a dance troupe, in an integrated format.
• Younger people would be interested in this, as well. Let students know that virtual programs are being offered. Definitely something appealing – younger people don’t always want to travel to do something. Graphic design is becoming more important with so much inline programming.
It’s an art form for some.
For Report out: 2-3 goals for arts and culture in Thousand Oaks
1. [Address issues/needs stated above in first question.]
2. Keep virtual programming element, post-COVID, to increase access and offer new creative opportunities.
3. Provide opportunities for youth, emerging artists and community-based arts programming. Celebrate the local as well as established professional (Rooted in Community).
3. Economic Development: What arts and cultural strategies should the City pursue to support economic development? How can economic development investments support the arts?
GPAC Group #2 Discussion Notes
Notes:
• From land use perspective, are there restrictions on live music, for example? It is difficult to get a permit for a small venue? Worked on a small project in Los Angeles, with production set-up in a warehouse type space for artists.
• The Civic Arts Plaza is a good example of economic development.
For Report out: 2-3 arts and cultural strategies the City of Thousand Oaks should consider pursuing
1. Address land use barriers to providing small/flexible venues. Make permitting easier for venues that offer arts, whether coffee shop or performing venue.
2. Include arts and entertainment in Campus Master Plan.
Public Group #1 Discussion Notes
• “Record” your small group discussion.
• “Screenshare” this page in your small group and take notes • If you run into issues, click “invite host”
• When you are finished discussing, “return to main session” or wait for the host to close the breakout group.
• Please take 30 seconds and introduce yourselves.
• The facilitator will serve as the groups note taker. Document all comments. • Please identify someone share a 1-2 minutes “report-out” with the rest of the group after this discussion.
• Spend approximately 10 minutes per question, the group does not need to reach a consensus. Different ideas are okay!
• Issues: What are some of the current arts and cultural issues in Thousand Oaks? • Visual arts – nowhere to display artwork during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Even during good times there is not enough space, community center or hallways of civic arts plaza. Should have a communal center for arts. o The venues that do exist do not sell artwork.
• Funding is lacking for organizations.
• For past 25 years the focus has been on CAP.
• No amphitheater
• Less traditional types of performance space
• There is an increase in visitors – arts and culture should reflect the people who live in the City and not just visitors
• Outdoor performance venue would be a place to go post COVID-19.
• Goals: What should the future of arts and culture in Thousand Oaks look like? Public Group #1 Discussion Notes
• Arts and culture should stay rooted in community -grassroots focus.
Focusing on locals as part of the movement.
• Amphitheater
• Creating more flexible spaces for arts and culture.
• Interconnected arts community where the sum of the parts is greater than the individual.
• Rethink basic funding of civic arts plaza – perhaps not make it self- sufficient.
• Combine arts with dining, etc.
• Need a main street with eating, drinking and arts.
• More visual/social media
• Economic Development: What arts and cultural strategies should the City pursue to support economic development? How can economic development investments support the arts?
• Combine arts/events with shopping and eating venues
Public Group #2 Discussion Notes
• “Record” your small group discussion.
• “Screenshare” this page in your small group and take notes • If you run into issues, click “invite host”
• When you are finished discussing, “return to main session” or wait for the host to close the breakout group.
• Please take 30 seconds and introduce yourselves.
• The facilitator will serve as the groups note taker. Document all comments. • Please identify someone share a 1-2 minutes “report-out” with the rest of the group after this discussion.
• Spend approximately 10 minutes per question, the group does not need to reach a consensus. Different ideas are okay!
1. Issues: What are some of the current arts and cultural issues in Thousand Oaks? Notes:
• Siloing of the cultural community; lack of communication about events, activity, and needs. Intentional communication and opportunities to work together would be helpful.
• Barriers to artistic and cultural events and venues; cost is a large factor when much is centered at Kavili; neighborhood and local artists is not as vital as it could be which could help balance access issues • More opportunities for youth are a challenge when there are barriers to access and programming is not geared to them; murals and public art could break down those walls
• Thousand Oaks not known as a “cultural community” – lack of public displays of art and artistry; art identity as a story has not yet been told • Reputation as a suburban community and going elsewhere for art is ingrained beyond the City and, to some within the City; creating the downtown could offer a turning point to create the identity as an arts community
Public Group #2 Discussion Notes
For Report out: 2-3 arts and cultural issues
1. What is our cultural identity?
2. Developing our arts culture and identity must be intentional and aspirational
3. Access to arts and culture (financial, physical) is a key component of the community driving that discussion
2. Goals: What should the future of arts and culture in Thousand Oaks look like? Notes:
• Equal access to the arts for all
• Money is still a barrier for many elements of arts education; in the future those barriers should be removed for students
• Arts should be participatory, inclusive, and democratic; there should be multiple pathways and portals for participation and interaction with the City taking the lead
• Experiential art should be integrated into the planning for the downtown and throughout the City’s plan
For Report out: 2-3 goals for arts and culture in Thousand Oaks
1. Integrating experiential art into the planning for the downtown plan
2. Financial barriers to arts education should be removed
3. Arts should be participatory, inclusive and there should be multiple pathways for participation
3. Economic Development: What arts and cultural strategies should the City pursue to support economic development? How can economic development investments support the arts?
Notes:
•
Public Group #3 Discussion Notes
• “Record” your small group discussion.
• “Screenshare” this page in your small group and take notes • If you run into issues, click “invite host”
• When you are finished discussing, “return to main session” or wait for the host to close the breakout group.
• Please take 30 seconds and introduce yourselves.
• The facilitator will serve as the groups note taker. Document all comments. • Please identify someone share a 1-2 minutes “report-out” with the rest of the group after this discussion.
• Spend approximately 10 minutes per question, the group does not need to reach a consensus. Different ideas are okay!
1. Issues: What are some of the current arts and cultural issues in Thousand Oaks? Notes:
• Arts organization are siloed – not a lot of coordination across organizations, need to build bridges and connect the ongoing activities o TO Arts Association is working with the Westlake Village Art Guild – virtual studio tours
• Flexible space is needed for organizations to meet, gallery space, teaching space, - physical location
o Many going to the TO Community Gallery – next to NP Library o Hilcrest Center for the Arts – offer reduced rental fee o Westlake Village Art Guild uses the Los Robles Banquet hall • Diversity is a big issue – need diversity of audience and practitioners For Report out: 2-3 arts and cultural issues
1. Physical space
Public Group #3 Discussion Notes
2. Coordination
3. Diversity
2. Goals: What should the future of arts and culture in Thousand Oaks look like? Notes:
• Group of community business leaders to collaborate for the development of the visual arts community
• Combine private sector and arts
o East coast – private business is involved to generate ideas for financial support, creative ideas
• Creativity to communicate ideas – exposure
o Website for all arts and culture events across TO
o How does the community want to digest this information? Where is the place to get the most eyes?
▪ Multiple separate organizations/institutions
▪ Could help market TO as place for Arts
• Strategic visible changes to include arts & culture
o Market the city as an artistic place
• “Brining art to our community initiative”
• Potential City Arts Coordinator – paid position
o Internal coordination with existing organizations, institutions, non-profits, etc.
o External coordination, getting the word out about events, classes, shows, and all opportunities related to arts and culture o Website for all arts and culture opportunities
• Roundtable – volunteers in the arts community to coordinate with city council/planning commission
For Report out: 2-3 goals for arts and culture in Thousand Oaks
1. Improved communication – paid city arts coordination position to act as a liaison for the arts community internally and externally
2. Arts steering community/roundtable or foundation to seek grants, funding, physical space,
3. Market the city as an artistic place
4. Pursue Downtown Core and integration with arts culture
Public Group #3 Discussion Notes
3. Economic Development: What arts and cultural strategies should the City pursue to support economic development? How can economic development investments support the arts?
Notes:
•
For Report out: 2-3 arts and cultural strategies the City of Thousand Oaks should consider pursuing
1. _
2. _
3. _
SMALL GROUP DISCUSSION
WORKSHEET
GPAC #11: Arts & Culture| October 22, 2020
INSTRUCTIONS
This worksheet corresponds to the General Plan Advisory Committee (GPAC) presentation and discussion held on October 22, 2020 covering arts and culture in Thousand Oaks. During the small group discussion, please share your ideas with the group and write down your individual responses. Completed forms should be returned to the City of Thousand Oaks by Monday October 26th at [email protected]. If you did not (virtually) attend the GPAC meeting, we encourage you to watch the recorded video available at:
https://www.toaks2045.org/gpac.
COMMENTS AND RESPONSES:
Here are more of my thoughts from the Zoom breakout
group session I participated in on October 22.
1. Issues: What are some of the current arts and cultural issues in Thousand Oaks?
As a 12-year, African-American resident of Westlake Village I’ve seen the growth of residential diversity in Thousand Oaks. With the increase of dining, tastings, music, exhibits, and festivals, there is also a rise of visitors to our metro area. As a premiere community in Conejo Valley, our arts and culture don’t reflect those that reside among us from all walks of life and cultural backgrounds.
2. Goals: What should the future of arts and culture in Thousand Oaks look like?
Accessible and affordable events and activities. Those that appeal to all the walks of life shaping this community, as well as for those traveling through this hidden gem of ours.
Out-of-the-box ideas that complement art AND culture. Focus on our TO 2045 slogan “rooted in community”. Create a movement and bring more awareness and appreciation, from a grassroots level.
Expanding to a broader definition of what “the arts” is. A fashion art display of Asian- Indian garment textiles/designs and the meaning behind them is an example. Showcasing the work of unsung/amateur artists in our own backyard. Harnessing our local resources as movers in this movement. Maybe it’s a seniors’ painting class exhibit from Goebel or Adult Enrichment, or spoken word night at the Teen Center. Getting the word out beyond Conejo Valley/Ventura County. Partnering with initiatives such as National Arts and Humanities Month, via social media campaigns, will increase awareness of our grassroots efforts with those local arts enthusiasts already connected to such larger online communities.
Tapping into social media to bridge the lack of space gap to showcase arts and culture.
Our young adults and youth residents would really appreciate a #TOforthearts, local online community to showcase their artistry and talents. Instagram live/stories is a popular platform for this.
Leveraging existing general platforms and resources gives us a roadmap to tailor our local efforts. https://www.americansforthearts.org/events/national-arts-and- humanities-month
Ask for a local government proclamation. The mayor and city council can declare Thousand Oaks Arts and Humanities Month.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Arts_&_Humanities_Month
3. Economic Development: What arts and cultural strategies should the City pursue to support economic development? How can economic development investments support the arts?
We didn’t get to discuss this
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/69/45/79/47/i255/135/53/48/70/i255/70/84/i255/43/78/72/48/79/45 Thousand Oaks General Plan Update
Meeting #12 | November 19, 2020 | 6:00 to 8:00 pm
This meeting was held via Zoom and livestreamed to YouTube. Members of the public could register in advance to join the Zoom meeting and/or make public comments, or view on YouTube and submit comments through an online comment forum. • Provide an overview of the General Plan and State regulatory framework relating to parks and open space.
• Provide an overview of Thousand Oaks’ parks, open space, trails, and natural resources including existing programs and policies.
• Brainstorm issues, goals and strategies relating to the above topics that can be included in the General Plan.
GPAC Members
• Present: Amy Commans, Chaise Rasheed, Darren Bovard, Dustin Woomer, Emily Dale, Fred Fukanaga, Jacqueline Emanuel, Dr. Karen Gorback, Laura Behjan, Mic Farris, Nicholas Reale, Patrick DuRoss, Paul Shrater, Rorie Skei, Dr. Victor Hayek, and Wyatt McCrea
• Absent: Andy Fox, Alicia Rincon, Dr. Chris Kimball, Dena Jenson, Jennifer Lobenhofer, Ken Lamont, Michael Nigh, and Tara Carruth
City Staff
• Gary Rogers, Deputy City Manager; Kelvin Parker, Community Development Director; Michael Forbes, Deputy Community Development Director; Kari Finley, Planning Manager; Krystin Rice, Senior Planner; Iain Holt, Senior Planner; Tabitha McAtee, Assistant Planner; Dusty Russell, Assistant Economic Development Analyst; Andrew Mooney, Senior Park Planner; Brian Stark, COSCA Administrator Consultant Team
• Matt Raimi and Melissa Stark, Raimi + Associates
• Joe Power, Rincon Consultants
GPAC MEETING #12 SUMMARY | 2
Matt Raimi welcomed GPAC members and the public w ith an overview of the evening’s agenda, followed by a review of key Zoom features and public participation opportunities shared by Melissa Stark.
Joe Power began the evening ’s presentation with an overview of the General Plan conservation and ope n space element requirements, State and Federal requirements that pertain to parks and open space, and an overview of natural resources existing conditions including natural communities, threatened plant and wildlife species, and wildlife corridors.
Brian Stark provided an overview of the Conejo Open Space Conservation Agency (COSCA) including the trails and open space system and how they are managed in Thousand Oaks.
Andrew Mooney introduced the Conejo Recreation and Park District (CRPD), sharing history and background, how parks are funded, and an overview of the parks system and recreation programs serving Thousand Oaks.
Existing programs and policies, and an overview of community feedback on parks and open space were then shared by Joe Power, followed by potential new policy and program ide as and conclusions from the General Plan Team.
At the end of the presentation, the team paused to answer questions, engage in conversation, and administer one poll to participants in the Zoom meeting. Members of the public watching on YouTube could participate in the Zoom poll through an online forum, however, no responses were colle cted. These questions, responses, and related comments are listed below.
GPAC member questions on the presentation:
• Regarding the Santa Monica Sierra Madre Wildlife Corridor, is there any effort to provide a 101 Freeway crossing in Thousand Oaks?
o The General Plan Team responded that they are unaware of any new crossings In Thousand Oaks.
o A member of the GPAC added that the Liberty Canyon Wildlife Crossing is about a year away from beginning construction.
• I moved to Thousand Oaks specifically to be close to a public park. With the future Downtown and the need for new housing, will there be plans for pocket parks or public parks and open space along Thousand Oaks Boulevard? o The General Plan Team responded that CRPD is in the process of determining where new parks or recreation areas are needed, looking for opportunities along Thousand Oaks Boulevard for things like linear parks or linkages to other established parks and/or open spaces. The team continued that the types of open space in denser development may be different than other parts of the city.
GPAC MEETING #12 SUMMARY | 3
• I want to see clean parks that are well maintained in Thousand Oaks. The Conejo Creek Park area had a recent brush clearing that has made room for new encampments and debris.
o The General Plan Team responded that Conejo Creek Park South recently completed a scheduled brush clearing as part of ongoing maintenance. The team offered to discuss more detailed questions after the meeting. • How do we measure foot traffic on trails and in parks? Does this impact planning decisions?
o The General Plan Team responded that volunteers count users arriving at open spaces and parks at peak periods and ask for zip code information and encourage visitors to take part in an online survey. This helps track usage and determine future messaging for crowd issues.
• How are park fees derived for developers?
o The General Plan Team responded that Quimby fees are broken down by value added and number of new units – they are currently set at approximately $11,000 per new housing unit. When new households are added into the community CRPD needs to provide parks and recreation services for those households. The team noted that Quimby fees, which can be used for land acquisition or improvements, need to be applied in the area in which new housing units are added. Quimby fees are set by CRPD and regulated by the City of Thousand Oaks.
Several members of the public had questions or comments - due to time constraints they were asked to share in small group discussions a nd/or during public comment. After the discussion, the only Zoom poll was launched:
Poll 1. Where should existing city parks and open space funds be prioritized? *Zoom Responses include GPAC members and some members of the public who joined the virtual meeting. (Note: Not all GPAC members responded to the poll question.) No public comments or questions on the presentation were submitted through the online forum. 8%
43%
38%
10%
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50%
Building new parks
Acquiring new open space
Improving existing parks
Adding public access to open spaces
Zoom Responses*
GPAC MEETING #12 SUMMARY | 4
Following the presentation , initial discussion, and Zoom poll , the General Plan Team initiated two GPAC member and three public member Zoom breakout groups. Each group spent 30 minutes discussing the questions below, after which one representative shared a report-out from their small group discussion.
Breakout Group Discussion Questions
1. Are there any specific types of recreational facilities that are currently lacking (sports fields, playgrounds, trails, etc.)?
2. Are there any existing recreational facilities that need updating?
3. Are there any specific areas of the City where parks are lacking?
4. What open space areas should be acquisition priorities?
5. Are you interested in increasing funding for open space acquisition and maintenance? If so, what funding mechanisms are you most open to?
The following are the results of the small group discussions for each group.
GPAC Group #1
1. Desire for additional sports fields, an official BMX track, and downhill biking trails in Thousand Oaks.
2. Would like each of the large recreation facilities to have a unique feature, like an amphitheater.
3. Some community centers need to be updated, otherwise recreation facilities are in good condition.
4. New parks will be needed near future housing on and around Thousand Oaks Boulevard.
5. Open space should be acquired in the City to complete the “ring of green.”
6. Would like to see more funding for parks and open space and would recommend corporate sponsors to provide additional funding.
GPAC Group #2
1. The City ne eds a senior center facility in the Newbury Park area and a park in the Downtown area on Thousand Oaks Boulevard. Would like to see a shuttle for users to Conejo Creek Park North.
2. Existing facilities need improved a ccessibility for all people . Would also like to see new security measures to maintain safety in public parks.
3. New parks and open space are needed near Downtown.
4. Agree with open space acquisition p riority areas identified in the presentation and would consider a new wildlife crossing at the western end of the city.
GPAC MEETING #12 SUMMARY | 5
5. Interested in increasing parks and open space funding, open to all ideas shared in the presentation (commercial development linkage fee, sales tax, and park impact fees ), and open to Community Facilities Districts (CFD).
Public Group #1
1. The City is lacking downhill mountain bike trails, skate, and BMX areas. Would like to see parks and open space embrace technology with wildlife cameras or WiFi.
2. Existing recreational facilities need more restrooms and WiFi.
3. The City needs new parks near the Downtown Core and the proposed development at the former K -Mart site. Would like to see native plant species added to the Conejo Creek parks.
4. Open space is key to limiting impacts of c limate change . Desire to maintain and expand native trees and open space . Would like to see solar panels and charging stations added to parking lots.
5. Did not get to this question.
Public Group #2
1. Would like to see improved amenities at existing recreational facilities like water refill stations, picnic tables, trash cans, bike racks, and restrooms with baby changing tables. Would like to see improvements to active transportation infrastructure, additional trail signage and expanded public access, and more community gardens citywide.
2. The Dover and Hendrix Community Center needs updating and improvements. Would like to see playgrounds converted from wood chips to sand and more permeable surfaces and at all existing recreational facilities. Also, would like to see more bell boxes for mountain bikers in open space, and promotional materials explaining etiquette for mountain bikers and hikers on trails.
3. Parks are lacking on Thousand Oaks Boulevard and trail access is limited in the North Ranch area. Would like to see equestrian access that is separated from fast -moving cars, protected bike paths, and wider sidewalks citywide.
4. Open space areas that provide a linkage to existing parks, trails, and open space should be prioritized for acquisition around the City.
5. Interested in increasing funding for parks and open space. Would c onsider minimal parking or usage fees at trailheads or sales tax measure.
Public Group #3
1. The City lacks public swimming pools. Would like to see educational games for young people and students that promote caring for the environment.
2. Would like to see more trees planted citywide and replacement of trees in parkways.
GPAC MEETING #12 SUMMARY | 6
3. Would like to see better connectivity with the ring of open space and parks. Interested in safe routes for pedestrians to access parks and open space as well as horses and horse trails.
4. Support acquisition of land that will complete the “ring of green” open space in the City, specifically priority areas K and space between B and D as wildlife areas.
5. Did not get to this question.
Approximately 25 members of the public participated in the Zoom Meeting. Several spoke during public comment at the end of the meeting , which is summarized below . While available, no public comment was submitted via the online public comment forum. • I want to restate some of the climate change facts shared earlier tonight. Climate change will result in extreme heat, intense and fastmoving wildfires, among other impacts. While some decisions are beyond our local control, some are related to the choices we make as a community. I believe we can lower local temperatures and reduce impacts to health by preserving open space, expanding parks, strengthen preservation to landmark and heritage trees, set ting aside undevelop ed land near open space for rewilding and prohibiting development in open space.
• I would like to see more multi-use paths along flood control channels that encourage off - street walking near creeks, like the one in Newbury Park. Also encourage more access for active transportation modes in the City.
• As a cycling advocate I would like to see directional down-hill only mountain bike trails in shared open space to mitigate conflicts with pedestrians and horses. An uphill trail could be shared by all users . In addition, we should attempt to capture revenue from visitors who use our open space and encourage them to shop or visit local businesses through sponsorships at trail heads.
• I want to thank CRPD and related agencies for doing a great job. I appreciate the wide - open hills and spaces in thousand Oaks.
• Thank you for great job with rodent control in open spaces and parks by using owl boxes.
My organization, “Poison-free Conejo Valley” aims to continue educating how human and wildlife interaction can be safer for all.
• I would like to reiterate the importance of i ncreased open space as it relates to climate change. Ventura County is the fastest warming county in lower 48 states , we should make sure climate change is at the forefront of every action in Thousand Oaks.
GPAC MEETING #12 SUMMARY | 7
Matt Raimi closed the meeting with an overview of the General Plan schedule and next steps.
Adjourn at 8:20 pm
Attached are small group discussion worksheets from facilitators.
Note: this was a virtual meeting, therefore no sign-in sheets for the GPAC or public were collected.
GPAC Group #1
• “Record” your small group discussion.
• “Screenshare” this page in your small group and take notes • If you run into issues, click “invite host”
• When you are finished discussing, “return to main session” or wait for the host to close the breakout group.
• Please take 30 seconds and introduce yourselves.
• The facilitator will serve as the groups note taker. Document all comments. • Please identify someone share a 1-2 minutes “report-out” with the rest of the group after this discussion.
• Spend approximately 10 minutes per question, the group does not need to reach a consensus. Different ideas are okay!
1. Are there any specific types of recreational facilities that are currently lacking (sports fields, playgrounds, trails, etc.)?
Notes:
• Use of facilities such as sports fields with set up goals, etc. • Not enough soccer fields
• More destination recreational facilities
• More designated bike trails
• More family-oriented facilities such as mini golf
• Amphitheaters in parks (socially distanced)
For Report out:
• Athletic fields
• More unique destination facilities
• Dedicated BMX and downhill biking trail areas
2. Are there any existing recreational facilities that need updating? Notes:
• Conejo Community Center
• Teen Center
GPAC Group #1
• Borchard Center
For Report out:
• Community Centers in general (for regular maintenance only)
3. Are there any specific areas of the City where parks are lacking? Notes:
• Thousand Oaks Blvd in between commercial/retail areas • We should have a taskforce committee to see which areas need to be improved
• Walking trails for different companies using their branding, expanding “Adopt a Trail”
For Report out:
• Thousand Oaks Blvd
• Heavy workplace areas with employees walking around on their breaks
4. What open space areas should be acquisition priorities? Notes:
• Central T.O.
For Report out:
• Any available properties in the center of the City
5. Are you interested in increasing funding for open space acquisition and maintenance? If so, what funding mechanisms are you most open to? Notes:
• Biotech should invest and adopt in these open space areas • (We do not want a rise in sales tax )
For Report out:
• Corporate adoption for acquisition
GPAC Group #1
Map for reference
GPAC Group #2
• “Record” your small group discussion.
• “Screenshare” this page in your small group and take notes • If you run into issues, click “invite host”
• When you are finished discussing, “return to main session” or wait for the host to close the breakout group.
• Please take 30 seconds and introduce yourselves.
• The facilitator will serve as the groups note taker. Document all comments. • Please identify someone share a 1-2 minutes “report-out” with the rest of the group after this discussion.
• Spend approximately 10 minutes per question, the group does not need to reach a consensus. Different ideas are okay!
1. Are there any specific types of recreational facilities that are currently lacking (sports fields, playgrounds, trails, etc.)?
Notes:
• Provide additional programming in the Newbury Park area for seniors, similar to the Goebel Center;
• Programming at the Newbury Park Library or community park. • Provide shuttle or transit options to existing facilities • The downtown area only has two smaller parks and as the area gets more active, more parks will be needed.
• Another community center and a senior center.
• We need a facility similar to the YMCA facility, located just outside the City in Westlake Village. The concept is fantastic and is all encompassing.
• Basketball courts are needed at Conejo Creek Park (North & South). • Be flexible and able to change to meet the needs of the community.
GPAC Group #2
2. Are there any existing recreational facilities that need updating? Notes:
• Should be a goal that all parks are accessible for all people, including restrooms, playgrounds, and larger walkways to be able to walk a stroller.
• In response to a comment made earlier in the meeting about trash, we want to make sure our parks are still usable. In other areas, for example Los Angeles and the SFV, parks are over-run, dirty, and feel unsafe. You can also park vehicles in parks in City of LA and never move, keeping old, non-running vehicles. All parks need general upkeep to make sure they are still usable.
• Conejo Creek Park North needs additional maintenance for trash pick- up.
• Do any parks have security cameras? Would that make people feel more safe or less safe? Some parks feel less safe.
3. Are there any specific areas of the City where parks are lacking? Notes:
• The downtown area, along the TOB corridor.
4. What open space areas should be acquisition priorities? Notes:
• The current priorities made sense.
• Discussed whether a wildlife bridge made sense at the western edge of the City but realize it takes a considerable amount of funding and one is being built nearby.
5. Are you interested in increasing funding for open space acquisition and maintenance? If so, what funding mechanisms are you most open to? Notes:
• Exploring a Community Facilities District (CFD) for acquisition and maintenance.
• What are our fees compared to other cities or the market range? So we don’t outprice ourselves.
• How much money is needed to acquire? Need to account for the cost.
GPAC Group #2
Other Group Comments:
• Need further education about wildlife conservation, responsibilities, and living in close proximity to wildlife.
• There’s a big diversity of parks here and they’re each a little bit different and that’s a positive.
GPAC Group #2
Map for reference
Public Group #1
• “Record” your small group discussion.
• “Screenshare” this page in your small group and take notes • If you run into issues, click “invite host”
• When you are finished discussing, “return to main session” or wait for the host to close the breakout group.
• Please take 30 seconds and introduce yourselves.
• The facilitator will serve as the groups note taker. Document all comments. • Please identify someone share a 1-2 minutes “report-out” with the rest of the group after this discussion.
• Spend approximately 10 minutes per question, the group does not need to reach a consensus. Different ideas are okay!
1. Are there any specific types of recreational facilities that are currently lacking (sports fields, playgrounds, trails, etc.)?
Notes:
• Develop specific downhill mountain bike trails
• Look at some trails that are single user trails
• Electric bikes are an issue – too fast and not skilled enough • Parks and playgrounds should be updated
• Allow feeding of ducks with designated foods
• Add more of a feeding aspect
• Embrace technology – interpretive signs with phones
• More skate and BMX parks are needed throughout town
• Trash and recycling bins in parking lots from teens in parks -more park rangers to monitor late night activities
Public Group #1
2. Are there any existing recreational facilities that need updating? Notes:
• Some need new restrooms or renovated restrooms (Old Meadows) • South Shore Hills needs a bathroom
• Wifi in some parks
• Critter cams – wildlife in parks and open space
3. Are there any specific areas of the City where parks are lacking? Notes:
• Along the boulevard where mixed use buildings
• Near the new building on the Kmart site
• Locations where there is a large concentration of apartments and lower income neighborhoods
• Need some open spaces closes to the Downtown Core
• Restoration work along Conejo creek; put in native species. • CRPD staff – looking at Boulevard for new parks; Conejo Creek SW (this will be developed soon once more units are developed along the Boulevard.)
o Quimby fee is for the developed park sites
o land on and near boulevard is expensive
4. What open space areas should be acquisition priorities? Notes:
• Need to look at habitats for rare and endangered species as top priority • Maintain wildlife corridors
• Urban canopy needs to be native trees – oaks and other landmark trees • Climate Change
o Ventura is the fastest warming county in the US
o Need as much open space as possible to act as carbon sinks o Native trees that act as carbon sinks
o Climate change will lead to a more active fire season o More shade structures with solar panels and the energy can be used directly for the parks
o All rooftops in the city should have solar
o Electric vehicle charging stations in parks
o Question: is the city benefiting from charging stations? (A:
offsetting costs)
• Add a water recapture systems
Public Group #1
5. Are you interested in increasing funding for open space acquisition and maintenance? If so, what funding mechanisms are you most open to? Notes:
•
Public Group #1
Map for reference
Public Group #2
• “Record” your small group discussion.
• “Screenshare” this page in your small group and take notes • If you run into issues, click “invite host”
• When you are finished discussing, “return to main session” or wait for the host to close the breakout group.
• Please take 30 seconds and introduce yourselves.
• The facilitator will serve as the groups note taker. Document all comments. • Please identify someone share a 1-2 minutes “report-out” with the rest of the group after this discussion.
• Spend approximately 10 minutes per question, the group does not need to reach a consensus. Different ideas are okay!
1. Are there any specific types of recreational facilities that are currently lacking (sports fields, playgrounds, trails, etc.)?
Notes:
• Some parks have vending machines. Helpful. Need more offering water.
Even better consider water bottle refill stations, instead. • Add/improve active transportation/connectivity.
• More music venue facilities.
• Rancho Conejo/Hill Canyon – improve user friendliness/improve connectivity.
• Trail markers/trail signs, please.
• Create a second community garden – like Las Flores community garden.
Waitlist is extremely long. Try to make design more community- friendly, so community can see what people are growing. (Las Flores had to fence off due to homeless issue as well as proximity to riparian habitat.)
• More equestrian access.
Public Group #2
2. Are there any existing recreational facilities that need updating? Notes:
• More permeable pavement. (Co-benefit for equestrian. Softer for walking/running. Less of wildfire risk.)
• Bring back the sand (instead of the woodchips)
• Dover & Hendrix – pretty rundown.
• Consider one way trails: Ex: popularity of downhill mountain biking. • Need for enhanced trail education – trail etiquette.
• More bike racks – all parks – need to be closer to actual amenities. • Add bike racks at Tarantula Hill trailhead.
• All men’s restrooms – baby changing stations.
• Garbage cans at all trailheads.
• Gigantic open space – East of Las Flores/Erbes Rd. More equestrian access.
3. Are there any specific areas of the City where parks are lacking? Notes:
• TO Blvd area. Near Los Feliz/TOB streetscape. Perhaps, amphitheater.
Protected bike lanes.
• North Ranch area – more trail access.
• Newbury Park/Kimber area: need more amenities – need for casual gatherings. Flexible/multi-use.
4. What open space areas should be acquisition priorities? Notes:
• Open space connectivity. Open space to open space. A network.
5. Are you interested in increasing funding for open space acquisition and maintenance? If so, what funding mechanisms are you most open to? Notes:
• Low parking fees at trailheads (to help with maintain). Won’t impact adjacent residents as much. Will be like user fee for visitors. Problem:
might incentivize parking in neighborhoods. Might penalize residents that don’t live near trails.
• Sales Tax increase: 0.25%
• Nothing adding to property taxes.
Public Group #2
Map for reference
Public Group #3
• “Record” your small group discussion.
• “Screenshare” this page in your small group and take notes • If you run into issues, click “invite host”
• When you are finished discussing, “return to main session” or wait for the host to close the breakout group.
• Please take 30 seconds and introduce yourselves.
• The facilitator will serve as the groups note taker. Document all comments. • Please identify someone share a 1-2 minutes “report-out” with the rest of the group after this discussion.
• Spend approximately 10 minutes per question, the group does not need to reach a consensus. Different ideas are okay!
1. Are there any specific types of recreational facilities that are currently lacking (sports fields, playgrounds, trails, etc.)?
Notes:
• Public swimming pools
• Safe access to open spaces/recreational areas
• Educational components to play area (mechanical equipment, environment/ habitat/biodiversity/sustainability/land stewardship) • Replacement of trees in parkways, more trees in general
2. Are there any existing recreational facilities that need updating? Notes:
• Generally well maintained
Public Group #3
3. Are there any specific areas of the City where parks are lacking? Notes:
• Better connectivity between parks/open spaces
• Education
a. User friendly ways for equestrian access, public education (signage) to heighten awareness for equestrians/bikers/hikers, etc.
b. Integrate increased awareness between human and animal interactions (coexist)
• Improved safety and access for routes between parks
4. What open space areas should be acquisition priorities? Notes:
• Closing the gaps to complete ring of green
• Prioritize wildlife corridor connections (Area K and between V and D)
5. Are you interested in increasing funding for open space acquisition and maintenance? If so, what funding mechanisms are you most open to? Notes:
• Property tax would be most likely
• User fees (discounted parking passes for residents)
Public Group #3
Map for reference
Live Presentation: Joint GPAC Meeting + Workshop #2
TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 1
THOUSAND OAKS GENERAL
PLAN 2045
JOINT GPAC MEETING + WORKSHOP #2
SUMMARY
February 2, 2021 | 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm | Virtual Zoom Webinar
OVERVIEW
On Tuesday, February 2, 2021, the City of Thousand Oaks hosted a joint General Plan Advisory Committee (GPAC) and public workshop to present three draft land use alternatives for the Thousand Oaks General Plan 2045 update project. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the workshop took place virtually as a Zoom Webinar from 6:00 to 8:30 pm. Approximately 255 attendees (including 17 GPAC members) joined the Zoom meeting, not counting the consultant team, elected officials, and city staff, with an additional 45 YouTube livestream views. GPAC members participated in the webinar as panelists and were able to use audio to ask questions, while members of the public joined as attendees and typed questions into the Q&A feature. This joint meeting was the second workshop in a series of four that will take place over the course of the General Plan update.
The joint event served as an overview of the materials presented in the Land Use Alternatives Briefing Book, which provides detailed background on the land use alternatives process and maps. The purpose of this event was to provide an overview of the three draft land use alternatives, answer questions from the GPAC and public about the alternatives and instruct the community about how to provide feedback on the land use alternatives. An online survey was available between February 2, 2021 and March 15, 2021, in English and Spanish, and was printed and hand delivered upon request.
The following summary includes an overview of the presentation, polling questions and results, and summar y of questions and answers from the GPAC and members of the public.
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TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 2
PRESENTATION
The meeting began with an introduction by City Manager, Andrew Powers, and continued with a presentation by Matt Raimi, project consultant with Raimi + Associates. The evenings presentation was divided into several sections including background, alternatives overview, review of land use alternatives, comparison of alternatives, and conclusion and next steps. Throughout the presentation, the General Plan Team paused to answer questions and facilitate polls. Below are highlights of the presentation sections.
Background
The presentation began with a recap of the General Plan Update process, the benefits of a General Plan Update and key terminology used throughout the presentation of alternatives and in the briefing book. This also included an overview of Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) requirements, the City’s Measure E ordinance, and recent State SB330 legislation.
Alternatives Process
This section served as a precursor to the three land use alternatives by highlighting results from previous community engagement activities that led to the delineation of the areas of stability, where little to no change is anticipated, and areas of change, where the General Plan Team proposes changes in land use and or character. Matt noted that less than 8% of the City was identified as an area of change. Also presented in this section were the land use designations which included descriptions and supportive imagery.
Review of Land Use Alternatives
The land use alternatives are a long-term vision for the City that tests values and ideas from the community process. In this section, the three land use alternatives were presented highlighting the common themes and differences among the areas of change. The alternatives were also reviewed as five subareas: Rancho Conejo, Moorpark and West Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Downtown and Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Westlake and East End, and village centers within the City.
Comparison of Alternatives
Following the detailed overview of each alternative by sub area, Matt presented a high-level comparison of land use category percentages for the three alternatives and metrics comparing the existing 1970 General Plan to the three land use alternatives.
Conclusion and Next Steps
The meeting concluded with an overview of next steps, including how members of the public could provide feedback through the briefing book, online survey, and virtual office hours.
Live Presentation: Joint GPAC Meeting + Workshop #2
TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 3
POLLING
Throughout the presentation, the General Plan Team used informal polls to engage GPAC members and attendees.
Below are the poll questions and corresponding results. Please note that not all participants completed one or all polls, and the participants who connected by phone only did not have access to the virtual poll.
0.00%
10.00%
20.00%
30.00%
40.00%
50.00%
60.00%
70.00%
80.00%
90.00%
Live Work Own a
business
Own a
property
None of
the
above
Do you live and or work in
Thousand Oaks?
GPAC + Public Responses
0.00%
5.00%
10.00%
15.00%
20.00%
25.00%
30.00%
35.00%
40.00%
If you live in Thousand Oaks, how
long have you lived here?
GPAC + Public Responses
0.00%
20.00%
40.00%
60.00%
80.00%
100.00%
Rent Own
If you live in Thousand Oaks, do
you rent or own your home?
GPAC + Public Responses
0.00%
10.00%
20.00%
30.00%
40.00%
50.00%
60.00%
Under 18 25-34 35-44 45-64 65 or
older
What is your age?
GPAC + Public Responses
Live Presentation: Joint GPAC Meeting + Workshop #2
TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 4
0.00%
10.00%
20.00%
30.00%
40.00%
50.00%
None, this is my first 1-3 meetings 4-6 meetings 7 or more meetings How many General Plan-related meetings and events
have you attended?
GPAC + Public Responses
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
30%
35%
40%
NO. Continue to allow
townhomes and small
apartments in Medium
Density Areas
YES. Lower the density and
transfer the capacity to the
Areas of Change
A combination of the above don't know
The existing General Plan allows for townhomes and small apartments to be built in some single-family areas. The proposed alternatives would reallocate this unbuilt residential capacity into the Areas of Change. Do you agree with this approach?
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
30%
35%
In Rancho
Conejo
At The Oaks
Mall or Janss
Marketplace
Near Downtown On the eastern
end of
Thousand Oaks
Boulevard (e.g.,
the Pavilion at
Westlake)
Around
Westlake Village
Shopping Center
In shopping
centers
throughout the
City
No preference
What is your top choice for where housing should be added? Live Presentation: Joint GPAC Meeting + Workshop #2
TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 5
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
90%
Yes, add a mixed-use district for
employees to live near where they
work
No, maintain the area for jobs only Not sure
Do you think that mixed-use development should be allowed in or immediately adjacent to Rancho Conejo?
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
30%
35%
Leave it as a regional mall Maintain some retail but
allow townhomes and 2-3
story multifamily residential
Redevelop with “main
street” retail and 3-4 story
mixed-use
Redevelop with “main
street” retail and 5-6 story
mixed-use
What best describes your vision for the future of The Oaks Mall? 0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
30%
35%
40%
45%
Leave it as a regional mall Maintain some retail but
allow townhomes and 2-3
story multifamily residential
Redevelop with “main
street” retail and 3-4 story
mixed-use
Redevelop with “main
street” retail and 5-6 story
mixed-use
What best describes your vision for the future of Janss Marketplace? Live Presentation: Joint GPAC Meeting + Workshop #2
TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 6
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
90%
Yes No Not sure
Should multifamily residential development be allowed on Thousand Oaks Boulevard?
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
Keep as-is Increasing development potential and
employment opportunities in the area
Allow a portion to convert to mixed-
use
What best describes your vision for the Townsgate Road area? Live Presentation: Joint GPAC Meeting + Workshop #2
TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 7
QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS
Throughout the presentation, the General Plan Team paused for questions to allow for discussion and input. The General Plan Team answered various questions from the GPAC, and the public submitted through the Q&A feature in Zoom Webinar. Questions and comments from the GPAC and the public are listed below (bolded) along with the General Plan Team responses (italics).
Questions from the GPAC
As the population and number of housing units increases on Thousand Oaks Boulevard, will the Plan include required publicly accessible parks and open space? How does that fit into the general plan designations?
The General Plan will identify general areas where new public parks are needed, but it cannot designate private property as parks or open space, as it would eliminate that property’s development potential and monetary value. City- owned property can be designated as future parks.
RHNA numbers are significantly higher than previous cycles, does this include a “catch up” set of numbers? Can you provide background on these numbers?
This round does include an increase because over the last 30 years the State has not kept up with population growth and housing demands. The last time California was this unbalanced was in the 1980s. As a State, we are in a housing deficit of about 2.4 million units. This RHNA cycle was an attempt to begin to make up for that deficit. It is unclear if the State will continue to use higher numbers in the future.
How does transit factor into the land use designations? Is proximity to transit a factor when considering residential types?
More people in a concentrated area and higher density residential results in more successful transit options. The areas identified by the GPAC and the public for higher density housing happen to be in locations that may be viable for public transit.
To what extent will we build in assumptions about retail space and office space based on the COVID-19 pandemic?
There are knowns and unknowns related to the pandemic and its impact to the build environment. We know that retail and types of retail will likely change permanently, while the verdict is still out on office space. We are currently seeing development projects moving forward with office components across the city.
Can you summarize what the General Plan is, and what it isn’t, how it relates to city council, assisting property owners, etc.?
The General Plan is the long-term vision and policy document for the city, often referred to as the city’s constitution. All decisions about development flow from the General Plan and future policy documents must be consistent with the General Plan. The General Plan sets forth land use designations, which regulate, at a high level, future uses that are allowed on each property within the City. General Plan land use designations feed into Zoning, which includes dimensional requirements for properties like building height, setbacks, etc. There are a series of other documents and regulations that implement the vision of the General Plan. The General Plan does not build or demolish buildings, it sets the vision of the future of the City, and it is at the discretion of property owners to make changes to their property according to the vision and guidance set forth in the General Plan.
Live Presentation: Joint GPAC Meeting + Workshop #2
TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 8
Is parking a factor in the alternatives development process? In the speaker series (General Plan Community Forum #2) it was mentioned that many cities over develop parking, which goes unused. Can developers repurpose parking lots into housing and/or mixed-use development? Parking was considered in a limited capacity at this phase, but the General Plan does not specify the amount of parking required for development. The General Plan can include parking related policies, but parking specifications are addressed through the Zoning Code.
Quality of life is the concern for many residents – do we have enough land to increase population? Are we going to reduce the existing quality of life?
One of the challenges the General Plan update process tries to balance is preserving quality of life and making changes that people want to see in the City. In general, we see that the best performing retail spaces can have traffic congestion around them, and the commercial spaces with plenty of parking are not performing as well. The alternatives will look for balance between activity and accessibility.
Do these three alternatives stand on their own? I saw great components of each that I liked. Are there opportunities to pull different components from each?
Yes, the goal of the alternatives phase is to test different ideas. In some instances, we are looking at the extremes to test what works and gain insight from the community. The preferred land use alternative may ultimately be a combination of all three alternatives with new components as well. The survey asks specific questions to identify what components resonate with the community.
Throughout the alternatives process, have you considered ownership of property? What is the path to seeing the changes in the alternatives process realized? In this phase, we did not do a detailed analysis of property ownership, although through city staff we had general sense of what that looked like. Moving forward, we want to look at ownership patterns and likelihood of development. That is the difference between buildout and growth projections. Through the horizon of the General Plan (2045) we will be analyzing what could happen in roughly the next 25 years.
Questions from the Public
The following questions were asked in the Zoom Q&A feature and answered verbally by the General Plan Team.
Is parking included in FAR ratios?
Surface parking and structured parking above grade is included in FAR, while below grade parking is not.
Given the number units needed for low and very low-income housing, will the city proactively identify areas and subsidize development for these kinds of Affordable projects? After the preferred land use alternative is confirmed, the City will be required to identify specific locations that could accommodate low and very low-income housing as part of Regional Housing Needs Allocation and the Housing Element. Related to subsidies, the General Plan will address housing through policies and programs.
Can you provide more detail related to the parks and open space question? While we cannot designate private property for parks or open space, all new residential multifamily development is required to provide parks/open space for all units and common parks/open space as part of development standards.
Can you build taller structures thereby reducing the new land needed to develop? The alternatives explore those options. The alternatives have different organizations of land by either concentrating the development through taller structures or increasing the number of areas proposed for residential development.
Live Presentation: Joint GPAC Meeting + Workshop #2
TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 9
Reducing vehicle miles traveled (VMT) is becoming an important part of land use planning – are any land use alternatives future scenarios that reduce VMT being considered? Yes, VMT is one of the metrics that is considered when evaluating the three land use alternatives, in addition the EIR will consider the impacts to VMT through the proposed land use changes.
What will ultimately be presented to City Council?
Feedback from the survey, office hours, and this meeting will direct changes to the land use alternatives, which will be presented to City Council and Planning Commission in the Spring.
Have the previous General Plans been directed by State mandated housing laws or where they directed by a locally driven process?
A combination of both, this update process includes all Elements of the General Plan, however, the housing element has several State requirements that must be addressed every 8 years. There are repercussions for not having a certified housing element in each of the 8-year cycles, the city would not be eligible for grant funding that could limit or reduce many capital programs.
What is the penalty for violating SB 330?
Recent legislation puts financial penalties on a city for not complying with SB 330.
After the General Plan is adopted, how would a property owner go about requesting a land use change? Individuals would have to apply for a General Plan and Zoning amendment that would be analyzed at that time, considering the existing local ordinances (Measure E) and state requirements. We encourage folks to make detailed parcel-level comments on the briefing book and the survey, as this is a good opportunity to work through potential changes.
Do the units have to be built?
The General Plan needs to Plan for and maintain 81,124 units, but development of housing units is dependent on individual property owners. The General Plan does not build or demolish any buildings.
The following questions were asked by members of the public and answered in writing by the General Plan Team through the Zoom Q&A feature during the presentation.
Question Asked In Q&A Response In Q&A
Will you make the maps interactive so that
when you click on a parcel it tells you the
GP designation? Other cities do this to
make it more user friendly and technically
accurate for residents and professionals
viewing the maps.
After this presentation, we will provide information on how to access interactive maps that allow you to click on a parcel and check its designation.
Are there any plans to pre-zone
unincorporated islands? Although not discussed in tonight’s presentation, the General Plan land use map will include designations for the
unincorporated county islands. No changes are being proposed for those areas.
Since there are 33,043 units available
under Measure E, how many are currently
under consideration?
As explained in the presentation, the General Plan needs to maintain the capacity for 81,124 units. These do not need to be built but planned for.
Live Presentation: Joint GPAC Meeting + Workshop #2
TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 10
Who are our hosts for this? City of Thousand Oaks and the General Plan consultant team We all understand what a "taking" is,
however, all these new housing units will
require new parks. How will this be
addressed?
City staff is working with CRPD to discuss where new housing units would potentially be built under each of the alternatives, and how that would result in needs for new or expanded park facilities. It is ultimately CRPD’s decision as to where they will place new parks to best meet the demand, and to purchase the property needed for those parks using parks impact fees collected from developers.
I am hard of hearing. Is there a way to get
subtitles? closed captioning will be available on the city's YouTube channel tomorrow.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t8YP74Kqkvw&feature=yo
utu.be
How do I access closed captioning? Can an
ASL interpreter be provided? closed captioning will be available on the city's YouTube channel tomorrow.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t8YP74Kqkvw&feature=yo
utu.be
Are granny flats counted toward the stock
numbers? Granny flats are not included in the total unit counts Could you post a link to the briefing book? https://raimi.konveio.com/thousand-oaks-2045-land-use- alternatives
Please point me to where the survey
resides on the page? I see a link for survey
results, but not tonight’s polls.
https://www.toaks2045.org/landusealts
I do not see a survey link on the main
website. https://www.toaks2045.org/landusealts
I’m on the city website and don’t see the
link for the land use link https://www.toaks2045.org/landusealts Each parcel that has been separately
delineated on the map should include the
acreage. It isn't hard to do. They did it
when they reconfigured Measure E.
I am checking with our GIS folks. We can add to the interactive maps tomorrow. Stay tuned. This capability was added after the meeting.
All the questions being posted are not being
seen by all attendees. I apologize for the inconvenience. I am unsure why this is happening. I encourage attendees to review the briefing book and respond to the online alternatives survey to record their comments. www.toaks2045.org
Will all the questions that are not being
answered or shown on screen be addressed
later somewhere?
If your question was not answered tonight, please attend one of our upcoming Virtual Office Hours. We received over 200 questions and tried to get to as many as possible. Thank you all for the great and thoughtful questions!
Live Presentation: Joint GPAC Meeting + Workshop #2
TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 11
What is the threshold for low income? Income categories are based on a percentage of the median income for the county. Additional information is in the Briefing Book.
Are residents able to vote yes or no on
proposed developments in their area? Individual residents do not vote on proposed developments, Planning Commissioners and/or the City Council vote on
projects. Residents are encouraged to participate in the public process providing input during environmental document review, public hearings and submitting correspondence to the City to help inform the decision makers.
Can you incorporate live work as a form of
mixed use in the General Plan? Live work would be permitted in mixed use areas Also, can we propose land uses currently
not identified to be included within the
proposed alternative change areas?
Matt will be describing these later in the presentation Also, how does the 2,615 needed units
under the state plan “fit” within the
available units under Measure E?
Measure E limits the citywide residential capacity. Many areas of the city were built at a lower density than what was allowed by the General Plan, resulting in unbuilt residential capacity.
The land use alternatives propose reallocating this unbuilt capacity from established residential neighborhoods into the Areas of Change.
What is the penalty for planning for or
building all 81,000 units? Measure E requires that the city not plan for more than 81,126 units, while SB 330 says the city may not plan for less than that number.
Is this a new survey or is it the one we had
opportunity to fill out a month or two ago? New survey. https://www.toaks2045.org/landusealts Is it still possible to become a member of
the GPAC? Please attend future GPAC meetings. these are open to the public. Please sign up for notification of these meetings on www.toaks2045.org
It appears that the outcome already seems
made and the representatives of the
community is very small as there are over
100,000 people. What are you doing to get
the community involved and not push the
destruction of the community?
Please help us get as much feedback from the widest cross section of the TO community. Please respond to the online alternatives survey. www.toaks2045.org
The survey is open for the month of February.
what if we live and work in Thousand Oaks? please pick one.
The 3 options are heavily weighted on
Mixed Use. Are there still options to
consider Low Density SFD on certain
parcels?
Please provide this comment in the online survey for areas where you think Low Density SFD development would be
appropriate.
How can I get a briefing book? Is there a
link on City website? Please review the briefing book and respond to the current survey at www.toaks245.org.
Live Presentation: Joint GPAC Meeting + Workshop #2
TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 12
How much impact does input have at this
point? Could public input influence which
sites are recommended to City Council?
Please review the briefing book and respond to the current survey at www.toaks245.org. This is the start of the public review process and your input is valuable
How can I obtain a copy of the 70 page
Briefing Book? Is it "online"? Please review the briefing book at www.toaks245.org.
I'm going to understand better once I've
had a chance to read all this. It's a lot to
process from a presentation. I'd like to have
a pdf of the slides as well, the keys are too
small to read on zoom.
Please review the briefing book which has detailed information and interactive maps and respond to the survey at
www.toaks2045.org.
wow! the poll answers are full of bias, and
none offer an open ended response. Please take the online alternatives survey which allows you to record open ended responses. www.toaks2045.org
Would like to know how many units of
housing each of the alternatives is allowing.
Are all alternatives going to allow for an
equal number increased housing units?
Please take time to read the Land Use Alternatives Briefing Book. https://www.toaks2045.org/events
All alternatives cannot allow more or less units overall due to SB 330 and Measure E.
What about solar over parking and
buildings? Solar is now required for all new residential statewide Why do ADUs/Granny Flats not count
toward Measure E mandates? can this be
modified?
State Law does not allow ADU's to count towards land use density/capacity. Measure E cannot be modified to count ADU's as part of overall dwelling capacity.
The poll is not in conflict with the prior
poll, the question was should mix use be
allowed in NBP, the answer is yes....the
question wasn’t whether it should be
concentrated there...if that was the
question the answer would be no
Thank you for the clarification
I think the difference in opinion re: Rancho
Conejo is related to information given
regarding Alt 1 - Alt 3. We did not have this
visual when first poll regarding same was
asked.
Thank you for the clarification
Whose quality of life? The families doubled
up into apartments because they cant find a
home?
Thank you for your comment. Please also record your thoughts on the online survey. https://www.toaks2045.org/landusealts Concerned about impact to traffic of
additional development around TO
Blvd/WL Blvd. Traffic getting to and from
high school is already so challenging (pre-
Covid when school was in session)
Thank you for your comment. Please be sure to record your comment on the online alternatives survey as well.
www.toaks2045.org
Re Poll 4 - The residential areas should go
out into the business/industrial part of
Rancho Conejo. They are NOT compatible
Thank you for your feedback. Please be sure to record your comment on the online alternatives survey as well.
www.toaks2045.org
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TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 13
with the neighborhoods on the South side
of the 101.
Live Poll # 4 did not include the answers I
needed to provide. Nothing in this City
should be higher than 3 stories. That's our
limit.
Thank you for your feedback. Please be sure to record your comment on the online alternatives survey as well.
www.toaks2045.org
Does this company understand that this city
doesn't want mixed use and they need to
come up with a non mixed plan. Your polls
all assume we are on board for mixed use
which I guarantee you we are not.
Thank you for your feedback. Please be sure to record your comment on the online alternatives survey as well.
www.toaks2045.org
I see another option for the mall as a
transport hub so residents to telecommute
commute but get out of their homes.
therefore, the mall becomes a “WeWork”
type of space as well. This does not exclude
the “mixed use” model, but “Mall as transit
hub” should be considered as a future
option.
Thank you for your feedback. Please be sure to record your comment on the online alternatives survey as well.
www.toaks2045.org
Move the Toyota used car lot into the car
area south of the Blvd. It's an eyesore. Thank you for your feedback. Please be sure to record your comment on the online alternatives survey as well.
www.toaks2045.org
Mixed Use growth...got it...move on to the
next section Thank you for your feedback. Please be sure to record your comment on the online alternatives survey as well.
www.toaks2045.org
(BTW...The 2 pdf downloads of the Land
Use Alternatives briefing books do not
seem to have separate unique file names
when downloading them.)
Thank you, we will fix after this meeting.
I believe the link in response to Larry
Turner was missing a 0...it should be
https://www.toaks2045.org/
thank you.
some of these areas already have multi-
family neighborhoods. Does this mean you
would knock it down and rebuild it?
That is dependent of the private property owners. The General Plan sets the policy whereby a property owner could propose redevelopment if it complies with density and other policies.
What is the green area on Westlake and
East End Alt 1? That is SCE property along Hampshire, which is designated Utilities and Flood Control.
Do they have a financial interest in what
happens? Are they tied in with any
developers?
The consultants do not own any property in the city and have been retained by the City to prepare a GP Update.
Live Presentation: Joint GPAC Meeting + Workshop #2
TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 14
Do we have enough water supply to fulfill
the requirements of measure E units in
Thousand Oaks?
The current Urban Water Management Plans for the multiple water purveyors all account for the amount of Measure E units under the 1996 General Plan. The General Plan Update
Environmental Impact report will analysis water supply under the preferred land use scenario, which will also have to be compliant with Measure E, just analyzed under current water supply circumstances.
Is the thought to take down the mall and
build new? The development envisioned in the land use alternatives could involve demolition and replacement of existing buildings, repurposing of existing buildings, and/or new buildings to supplement existing buildings. It is up to each property owner to determine if, when, and how to redevelop their properties. The mall and many other properties in Thousand Oaks have very large surface parking lots that could be used as locations for new buildings. The parking could be replaced with parking structures.
Can you repost the slides of the areas to be
developed? The entire presentation will be posted on the web site at toaks2045.org after the meeting. All of the maps and
information in the presentation are also included in the Briefing Book which is available now on the web site.
The Mixed Use land designations of Low,
Medium, & High have corresponding FAR of
0.25, 0.5, 1.0. The FAR seems to be
extremely low and not proportion to
density to achieve a reasonable size of
dwelling units. To reach these densities at
say a 0.5 FAR would have to be micro units
and not suitable for families. Is this correct?
The FAR is only for the commercial portion of a mixed use development
Can you touch on the funding
mechanisms/strategies for implementation
at this stage in the planning process?
The General Plan puts policies in place to manage development that is initiated by the private sector based on market conditions. The City would not itself build any of the
development envisioned by these land use alternatives.
500 survey responses is not predictable of
the city desires. There are 130,000 people
and only 400_ responded. An additional
survey should be sent out now that the
program has visibility.
The General Plan update process is ongoing and there are ongoing opportunities to provide additional input. Please review the briefing book and respond to the current survey at
www.toaks245.org.
Can you please type in the Q&A what Matt
said in response to Rorie's question about
parks not being provided for thousands of
new housing units? Very important
question.
The GP will assess the need for new parks. However, the city cannot designate private property as parks or open space. is the GPAC group voting, or just the
residents participating? The GPAC and the attendees are all voting Live Presentation: Joint GPAC Meeting + Workshop #2
TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 15
Given the additional 2,600 RHNA units, will
the City maintain the "unit pool" system
used under Measure E? Or will that be
changed?
The Housing Crisis Act of 2019 (SB 330) requires the City to allocate all of its residential capacity onto the land use map. The current “pool” system will be discontinued with the updated General Plan.
Given the # of units we need for low and
very low income residents, will the city
work proactively to identify parcels and
subsidize development of affordable
projects?
The Housing Element, which is a part of the GP process, will identify housing sites.
Will the planners or sustainability office
compare VMT's and estimated GHG
emission increases or reduction of each
alternative?
The metrics for VMT and GHG will be presented later in the presentation
Any indication whether those commercial
properties will actually be utilized in all
that mixed use? A town I used to live in
went very mixed use heavy at one point,
and most of the commercial spaces were
never leased. Has there been research into
the demand?
The mixed-use designations envision different options for providing a mix of uses with varying degrees of commercial and residential based on location and market conditions. We recognize that the traditional mixed-use format of retail on the ground floor and residential above does not work in all locations and can result in vacant commercial spaces if not implemented properly.
Does the City have a jobs growth goal that
was used for the alternatives? The numbers being presented are build-out numbers. how do I get to that firs poll we had? my
friend just logged in, Carol, and wants to
take it.
The poll was an informal survey at the start of the presentation.
It is now closed. The official survey will collect demographic information.
Not all questions are posting to everyone.
No censoring please. The questions and responses are available to all attendees and GPAC members.
Where can I find the list of stakeholders
who were consulted earlier on? The stakeholder summaries are available on the project website. www.toaks2045.com
How can you fulfill the state requirements if
you can not get any property owners to go
along with any Alternatives?
The State requires cities to plan for more housing understanding that the property owners have the choice to develop.
will measure E be repealed? There are no plans to repeal Measure E.
Also, is there any consideration to allow
affordable housing to be developed upon
church/synagogue land (without requiring
any type of General Plan amendment)?
There is state legislation under consideration to allow church properties to have housing by right.
None of your designs have rooftop gardens
for commercial or residential. These type of design components would not be part of the General Plan. Those type of requirements can be incorporated into zoning ordinance update, which would follow policy direction from the General Plan.
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TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 16
What changes in city infrastructure are
required and accordingly incorporated in
the plan to accommodate this increase in
housing and commercial density.
This will be studied as part of the Environmental Impact Report, which will be available for public review later this year.
Is there a paper version of the survey that is
being distributed, to include the input of
folks without computer or Internet access?
To request a paper copy of the Briefing Book and survey, please email [email protected].
What about traffic impact? Many roads are
near gridlock at certain times of the day.
Adding density will make this worse. As
density increases near the freeway, there
will be less space remaining to
accommodate traffic (adding turn lanes, for
instance).
Traffic will be analyzed under the Environmental Impact Report. State Law requires a new metric for analyzing
transportation, which is Vehicle Miles Travelled.
Can a property's land use designation still
be considered after this meeting for
another use? For example, if none of the
alternatives allow for housing, is there an
opportunity to add before final vote?
We are looking for all input. Please provide your comments through the survey and interactive maps provided on
www.toaks2045.com.
The final decision will be made by the City Council later this Spring.
It is critical that acreage be provided for
each parcel you're showing. If the plan is to
go to mixed use "high" (45-60 units per acre
with a possible density bonus of 35% or
greater for "affordable"), the public should
be able to determine what the ultimate
increase in intensity would be at build-out.
We have some overall acreage numbers that will be presented shortly. These are also included in the briefing book.
www.toaks2045.org
Will you add acreage for the parcels to the
map? We will check and see if that is possible.
Will these slides be made available after
the meeting? Yes
Will the housing element explore ADU's and
strategies to encourage these units? Yes
Are there any traffic studies being
conducted for these alternatives? Yes, the EIR will include traffic studies Will this PPP be available in the TO2045
website? yes. Also, please review the briefing book and respond to the current survey at www.toaks245.org.
Will a transportation impact study be done
to evaluate future land use scenarios? Yes. An Environmental Impact Report (EIR) will be prepared to analyze the potential environmental impacts that would result from implementation of the General Plan, including
development that may result from the preferred land use alternative. A transportation impact study will be conducted as part of the EIR. The Draft EIR will be released for public review along with the complete draft General Plan later this year.
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TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 17
will all of these alternatives allow for the
81,000 housing units that are needed Yes. As described earlier, State law requires that the capacity is maintained.
Will the questions be archived? Yes. Please also provide your input by completing the survey.
Does the state mandate the number of low
income units that are required? Yes. The RHNA allocation has a breakdown of units by income levels
Other Comments
The workshop accumulated hundreds of comments and questions - some were addressed verbally to all in attendance at the workshop, some were addressed through the written Q&A feature, and some could not be addressed due to time constraints. The major themes of the latter comments and questions are summarized below. • Please provide closed captioning, ASL interpretation, and translation at future meetings. • Housing affordability, senior housing, and multigenerational housing needs are issues that need to be addressed.
• Consider rephrasing “protect single family neighborhoods”. • How is the City analyzing needs of our local community, economy, and environment? • Please clarify the thresholds for low and very low-income housing and if that addresses housing needs for those who are experiencing homelessness.
• Please clarify Measure E local ordinance and the State’s RHNA allocation process. • How will the General Plan address inclusion, incorporate active transportation, gentrification, and address parking?
• Are minority communities, populations with disabilities, and those without internet access being proactively reached through the General Plan process?
• Will the General Plan address sustainability solutions like zero carbon housing, and are there energy use goals and requirements for the future?
• How will water supply be addressed?
• Does the General Plan accommodate existing population or entice new populations? • Are there any plans to pre-zoning unincorporated County islands? • Can you touch on the funding mechanisms or strategies for implementation at this stage in the planning process?
• Are there options to add more single family residential? • Can the acreage be provided for each parcel within the change areas? • Are there job growth targets or targets for the types of jobs being created? • Concerned about new development and potential changes to City’s character. • Will there be impacts to the local school district?
• Will a form-based code be prepared?
• Will the General Plan prepare a land use/zoning consistency analysis? • Access to affordable housing for people of all ages is a huge issue.
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TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 18
• Why do the alternatives propose so much retail space? • Will the General Plan include updates to infrastructure? Specifically bicycle infrastructure. • Are there public funds available to incentivize development according to the General Plan? • Why do the alternatives focus on the 101-corridor so heavily? • How does the Thousand Oaks Boulevard Specific Plan interface with the new General Plan?
Thousand Oaks General Plan Update
GENERAL PLAN ADVISORY
COMMITTEE
Meeting #14 | March 24, 2020 | 6:00 to 8:00 pm | Virtual Meeting
MEETING NOTES
This meeting was held via Zoom and livestreamed to YouTube. Members of the public could register in advance to join the Zoom meeting and/or make public comments or view only on YouTube.
OBJECTIVES
• Provide an overview of recent community engagement activities. • Summarize land use alternatives survey results.
• Discuss preliminary direction for preferred land use alternative. • Review project schedule.
ATTENDEES
GPAC Members
• Present: Amy Commans, Alicia Rincon, Andy Fox, Chaise Rasheed, Darren Bovard, Emily Dale, Fred Fukanaga, Jennifer Lobenhofer, Dr. Karen Gorback, Laura Behjan, Mic Farris, Nicholas Reale, Patrick DuRoss, Rorie Skei, Tara Carruth, Dr. Victor Hayek, and Wyatt McCrea • Absent: Dr. Chris Kimball, Dena Jenson, Ken Lamont, Michael Nigh City Staff
• Kelvin Parker, Community Development Director; Michael Forbes, Deputy Community Development Director; Kari Finley, Planning Manager; Krystin Rice, Senior Planner; Iain Holt, Senior Planner; and Tabitha McAtee, Assistant Planner
Consultant Team
• Matt Raimi and Melissa Stark, Raimi + Associates
GPAC MEETING #12 SUMMARY | 2
MEETING SUMMARY
This meeting included closed captioning and simultaneous Spanish translation via two interpreters.
Approximately 97 people participated, including city staff and consultant team, GPAC members, and members of the public.
PRESENTATION & DISCUSSION
Matt Raimi welcomed GPAC members and the public with an overview of the evening’s agenda, followed by a status update on General Plan process.
The presentation began with an overview of community engagement, noting the General Plan Update efforts to date as well as the various activities, campaigns, and meetings held to discuss and raise awareness for the three land use alternatives. Matt highlighted the high rate of public interest in the land use alternatives process, which garnered over 2,100 survey responses, 6,000 public comments, and an additional 1,000 comments on the Land Use Alternatives Briefing Book.
Then, Matt described frequently asked questions from the public during the land use alternatives process, and their responses. These included questions like, “Why update the land use map?”, “What are land use alternatives?”, and “Does the General Plan require new housing to be built?” among others.
After updating the group on recent community engagement activities and commonly asked questions, Matt presented the land use alternatives survey results. These results covered demographics, citywide, and area specific responses. The demographics results were compared to citywide demographic data and demographics from the 2020 statistically valid Citywide Attitude Survey to better understand how representative the land use alternatives survey respondents were to the larger Thousand Oaks community. Citywide survey results included an overview of the three land use alternatives, the commonalities and differences, and the preferences indicated by respondents. The specific areas referenced in the survey included the five major change areas: Rancho Conejo, Moorpark Road and East Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Downtown and Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Westlake and East End, and Village Centers. These survey results guide and direct land use changes specific to each major change area. For a detailed look at the survey results, please visit the General Plan Update website, TOaks2045.org.
During the presentation, two Zoom polls were conducted to gauge GPAC and public responses to the survey results. Those questions and results are shown below.
GPAC MEETING #12 SUMMARY | 3
Poll 1. Did you take the land use alternatives survey?
Poll 2. What is your overall impression or reaction to the survey results?
*Zoom Responses include GPAC members and members of the public who joined the virtual meeting (Note: Not all GPAC members or members of the public responded to the poll question).
Following the presentation of survey results and polls, GPAC members providing their comments and reactions to the survey results.
GPAC member comments on the presentation and survey results:
• I am not surprised with the desire to keep the Moopark Road and East Thousand Oaks Boulevard area commercial. Though t here is potential to modify the Janss Marketplace and The Oaks Mall to accommodate housing. Thousand Oaks has a lot of r etail, which is changing quickly. There is a need for flexibility specifically for larger retail properties. Perhaps we can allow multipl e land use designations like mixed-use high, or mixed-use medium on a portion to allow flexibility. • I am s urprised by the lack of enthusiasm for village centers that provide walk able neighborhood centers. This would help provide the diversity of housing stock close to existing neighborhoods and should be on the table for the future.
18%
82%
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90%
No
Yes
GPAC + Public Responses
25%
49%
25%
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60%
Not surprised
Somewhat surprised
Very surprised
GPAC + Public Responses
GPAC MEETING #12 SUMMARY | 4
• I feel we are missing the realistic build -out numbers for the City. I feel the current maximum is more like 50,000 units, which is based off the 2011 Environmental Impact Report for the Thousand Oaks Boulevard Specific Plan. The natural place for mixed-use development is the Moorpark Road and Janss Marketplace area. Not a fan of taller buildings and I want to keep a slower pace of change in the City. • After looking at the Briefing Book comments, it is important to note the General Plan is a blueprint, not a guaranteed change. There is room for change in land use designation around The Oaks Mall and Janss Marketplace. The existing retail bubble and effects of the pandemic could cause a greater decline in shopping. In addition, Thousand Oaks saw a population decline in the last year, which may continue due to the cost of living. I am interested to see what the Census reports in terms of population trends.
I think there is a need for housing choices for the populations that already live in Thousand Oaks, not necessarily for a lot of new people.
• After attending almost all the land use alternatives open house sessions, I talked with other residents ages 24 -35 to get their take on things. Folks were most passionate about the idea of mixed -use development, wanting to see 3-5 stories buildings, specifically at the Janss Marketplace. Most people I talked to were excited about the village center concept and expressed a desire for more residential and mixed-use development along Thousand Oaks Boulevard . Overall, most were happy these ideas are being considered through the process, noting the single-family neighborhoods leave out young people who want to transition out of small apartments into other types of housing stock. • I feel both surprised and not surprised by the survey results, specifically with the low response rate in younger age brackets. I do not know how many people that age think there are opportunities for them in Thousand Oaks. We need more job opportunities.
• We need to stay focused on the process and trust community input. We cannot get sidetracked with specific numbers. I was not surprised by the sur vey results; we have a lot of forward-thinking folks in Thousand Oaks, and many recognize that we need change to maintain the quality of life in the City. We need to look at different types of housing stock, keep our options open, and use a balanced approach.
The General Plan is a blueprint for the entire City, we need to have a vision and be flexible. • I am surprised by the lack of support for village centers based on my conversations with GPAC members and feedback from other community meetings and surveys. I think we should keep that option on the table. Village centers are a better way to integrate different types of housing into the community, as opposed to having them segregated. I am concerned with the low response rate from the Hispanic/Latino community.
• The survey results show support for higher densities, but I am concerned with parking and crowding. • After talking with friends in the 25 to 34 -year-old age range who grew up in Thousand Oaks and subsequently left the area, I think the downtown is a great place to add residential. I am more cautious about the intersection of Westlake and Thousand Oaks Boulevards due to existing traffic congestion. • We should maintain the openness and views in Thousand Oaks. Supportive of mixed -use in the Thousand Oaks Boulevard Specific Plan area but concerned with overcrowding and traffic that was referenced in the survey comments. Think we should take a measured ap proach for implementing change in Thousand Oaks.
GPAC MEETING #12 SUMMARY | 5
• Regarding participation from the Hispanic community, I was hoping for more input, but spoke with many people who did not understand the survey. Many folks couldn’t attend meetings and thought the concepts were difficult to understand. I appreciate the effort to reach out to the community.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Approximately 50 members of the public participated in the Zoom Meeting. Several spoke during public comment at the end of the meeting, which is summarized below. • The approach to village centers should be tailored to each area, as opposed to a blanket designation applied to all.
• Supportive of slow growth, confused about how we inform the entire community about the General Plan process. Many folks do not know about it.
• How are the individual survey comments accounted for in the numerical data? How is the land use map going to be designed?
• Do not feel the comments are a true representation, most community members want to keep the low- density lifestyle.
• I do not support mixed-use in the area behind my backyard. • Want to see the results for each area, feel as though Casa Conejo is being dumped on. Would like to see a breakdown of survey results by zip code.
• Why are we not talking about congestion and traffic? How will transportation be accommodated? • The General Plan does not address Skyworks and semiconductor industries. • Not supportive of the General Plan change, though aware we need more housing. • Thousand Oaks Boulevard property owner and member of TOBA and supportive of mixed-use. Feel that people want Thousand Oaks Boulevard to be more pedestrian -oriented. Overall supportive of the alternatives.
• Village centers are an attractive idea that offer many benefits, like supporting family’s ability to live and work in Thousand Oaks.
WRAP UP
Matt Raimi closed the meeting with an overview of the General Plan schedule and next steps.
Adjourn at 8:15 pm
Note: this was a virtual meeting, therefore no sign-in sheets for the GPAC or public were collected.
Joint GPAC Meeting + Workshop #3
TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 1
THOUSAND OAKS GENERAL
PLAN 2045
JOINT GPAC MEETING + WORKSHOP #3
SUMMARY
April 21, 2021 | 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm | Virtual Zoom Meeting
Attendees
GPAC Members
Present: Andy Fox, Chaise Rasheed, Darren Bovard, Dustin Woomer, Fred Fukunaga, Jacqueline Emanuel, Jennifer Lobenhofer, Dr. Karen Gorback, Laura Behjan, Mic Farris, Nicholas Reale, Rorie Skei, Dr. Victor Hayek
Absent: Alicia Rincon, Amy Commans, Dr. Chris Kimball, Dena Jenson, Emily Dale, Ken Lamont, Michael Nigh.
Patrick DuRoss, Paul Shrater, Tara Carruth, Wyatt McCrea Public
This was a virtual meeting; hence no public sign-in is available.
Overview
On Wednesday, April 21, 2021, the City of Thousand Oaks hosted a joint General Plan Advisory Committee (GPAC) and public workshop to present the preferred land use map for the Thousand Oaks General Plan 2045 update project. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the workshop took place virtually as a Zoom Meeting from 6:00 to 8:30 pm. Approximately 75 attendees (including 13 GPAC members) joined the Zoom meeting, not counting the consultant team, elected officials, and city staff, with an additional 100 YouTube views. Members of the public could register in advance to join the live meeting along with GPAC members. Both GPAC and members of the public had access to video and audio throughout the presentation and discussion. This joint meeting was the third workshop in a series of four that will take place over the course of the General Plan update.
The joint event provided a brief overview of the land use alternatives survey results and supplemental analysis, an overview of key components of the preferred land use map, and breakout group discussions among GPAC and community members. The General Plan Team also announced the preferred land use map survey which was open between April 20 and May 12, 2021 and available in English and Spanish.
The following summary includes an overview of the presentation, community small group discussions, GPAC direction, and public comment.
Joint GPAC Meeting + Workshop #3
TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 2
Presentation and Discussion
The evening kicked off with a presentation by Matt Raimi, project consultant with Raimi + Associates, which was divided into several sections including background and process overview, land use alternatives survey results, overview of preferred land use map, and next steps.
Below are highlights of the presentation by section and group discussions.
PRESENTATION
Background + Process
Matt introduced the meeting objectives, how community members can provide feedback on the draft land use map, an overall update on the General Plan Update process.
The land use alternatives process overview included a recap of the flow of work, areas of change and stability map, high-level comparison of the three land use alternatives, and overview of the survey. In this section, Matt shared some of the community engagement activities conducted for the three land use alternatives, survey statistics, demographics of survey respondents, and results of detailed sensitivity analysis.
Land Use Alternatives Survey Results + Preferred Land Use Map
This section outlined the preferred land use process, proposed designations, and details of the land use alternatives survey results and how they relate to the new preferred map. The preferred land use map incorporated components of the three land use alternatives based primarily on survey results. The preferred map provides less total development capacity and maximum density compared to the previous three alternatives.
Matt highlighted the overall characteristics of the preferred land use map, then reviewed each of the five geographic areas relating survey feedback to the preferred map changes. Matt noted that the vast majority (83%) of the citywide preferred land use map is made up of single-family residential and parks, golf courses, or open space.
Preferred Land Use Alternative Next Steps
At the end of the presentation, Matt shared key dates and next steps in the preferred land use map process including the survey open through May 12, 2021, presentations to Planning Commission on April 26, 2021 and City Council on May 18th and 25th.
DISCUSSION
Breakout groups
After the presentation, members of the public and GPAC dispersed into small groups to discuss the preferred land use map. The GPAC remained in the main Zoom room, while members of the public were invited to join breakout groups with a facilitator. Members of the public could opt out of a breakout group and instead observe the GPAC discussion.
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TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 3
Discussions took place for roughly one hour and were guided by two questions. For each area, both GPAC and members of the public were asked, “What did you like about the preferred land use alternative map?” and “What changes do you think should be made to the map?”
Once discussions concluded, the meeting reconvened for highlights shared by the small group facilitator. Below are summaries from public small groups’ report-outs.
Small Group Report Out (Public)
Group 1
• Discussion focused on big-picture citywide vision.
• Opinions split between those who wanted more housing, mixed-use, higher density, and taller building heights verses those who wanted lower density, lower building heights, and less mixed use. • Majority support housing in village centers and share a desire for more public meeting space like plazas. • Majority support flexible designations for large retail centers. • Group had split opinions on the future of the Borchard site, some in favor of mixed-use, and others in favor of maintaining single-family residential designation.
Group 2
• Discussion focused on the Rancho Conejo subarea because many participants did not feel comfortable discussing subareas they were not familiar with.
• Felt the Borchard property has a lot of potential and should allow for higher density residential. Many participants asked questions regarding the proposed split designation and preferred a single mixed-use designation.
• Acknowledged the need for affordable housing and felt the village centers were a good way to provide additional housing.
• Majority were disappointed village centers don’t include any residential and are commercial in the proposed land use map.
• Many felt The Oaks Mall and Janss Marketplace could include higher density residential.
Group 3
• Majority agree with the approach of focusing change to subareas and maintaining majority of the city in current configuration.
• Discussion focused on Rancho Conejo and Thousand Oaks Boulevard. • In the Rancho Conejo subarea, had the following recommendations:
o Supportive of mixed-use north of the 101 freeway.
o Not supportive of tall buildings south of 101 freeway. o Current vacant property in the northwest corner of the Rancho Conejo subarea (commonly referred to as the “goldfish” or “7th Day Adventist” property) should be residential, not industrial as proposed.
o Consider access and circulation in the area.
• Felt overall the preferred land use map is in a good place, with a few caveats. • Thousand Oaks Boulevard Specific Plan Area should treat all property owners the same, allowing for Mixed Use Medium across all parcels. Similarly, the Oaks Mall and Janss Marketplace should allow greater flexibility.
• Supportive of the Westlake and East End proposed land uses.
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TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 4
• Parking should be addressed within village centers if mixed-use is added.
GPAC Direction
After listening to public small group report-outs, members of the GPAC took turns sharing their final thoughts and overall review of the preferred land use map. Note that all members of the GPAC in attendance shared their opinion at this time (one GPAC member left the meeting early and therefore did not provide their opinions). Below is a summary of the direction received from the GPAC as well as individual comments from GPAC members.
Summary:
10 members of the GPAC supported the direction of the preferred land use map, but offered specific tweaks to the map:
o Introduce mixed-use at some of the village centers.
o Propose mixed-use across the Borchard property.
o Provide flexibility and focus mixed-use throughout the Thousand Oaks Boulevard corridor. o Add increased residential density at the Oaks Mall and Janss Marketplace. o Remove mixed-use designations from sites we know are not likely to change in the next 20-30 years.
These GPAC members shared support for specific elements of the preferred land use map:
o Mixed-use at the Oaks Mall and Janss Marketplace.
o Emphasis on walkability and livability.
o Maintained community character by preserving parks, open space, and single-family neighborhoods.
o Expansion of jobs and focus on local economy.
2 members of the GPAC felt cautious about the preferred land use map, noting the scope of changes and potential impacts to schools, views and a potential to transform the overall character of the community as concerns.
GPAC member comments:
o Overall, the preferred land use map is reasonable and does not change most of the land in the city. o The City has done a great job of reaching out to community members through outreach. o The Borchard property owner is a lifelong resident and does not want to negatively affect the neighbors with future development. The proposed development there would be mutually beneficial for neighbors, businesses, and the city as a whole. o Cautious and hesitant to accept the preferred land use map as it stands now. There are impacts that will need to be addressed like school enrollment.
o Supportive of providing flexibility through higher densities at only The Oaks Mall and Janss Marketplace.
o Prefer to spread out density across the city.
o The preferred land use map is going in right direction, small tweaks are needed to increase flexibility.
o The Oaks Mall and Janss Marketplace both have too much parking, those areas could support future housing.
o The preferred land use map is going in the right direction. o Consider allowing more uses (like hotels) and providing greater flexibility on height and density for retail centers.
o Agree with other GPAC members that some of the large retail centers in the Westlake and East End (i.e., The Promenade) are not going to change, so the mixed-use designation should be moved elsewhere.
o The preferred land use map is moving in the right direction. o The General Plan is not about buildings; it is about people, enhanced livability, and making the City a better place to live, work, raise a family, and grow old. In the future we need to make those connections clear with the proposed changes to the General Plan.
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TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 5
o Village Centers would be a great place to live in the future. o Thankful to the Team for preparing this information and providing outreach to the community. o Generally supportive of the preferred land use map. Some tweaks are needed to address the concerns and comments raised tonight including:
▪ Some village centers should allow mixed-use.
▪ Not comfortable increasing heights or densities beyond what is proposed. ▪ Overall want to maximum flexibility.
o Overall, the map is a balanced approach that preserves what this community has built over the course of its history.
o The team has done a great job synthesizing input and preparing the preferred land use map.
Thank you for the effort and progress.
o By-in-large the preferred land use map is going in the correct direction, but a few tweaks are needed including adding mixed use to the Village Centers and allowing increased flexibility for The Oaks Mall and Janss Marketplace. Additional housing units should go in these locations. o Cautious of the scope and size of proposed changes, seems out of historic character for Thousand Oaks. The proposed map includes some great resources for us to consider. o There are changes we need to make, State requirements, and inevitable economic changes are coming.
o Recommend or support changes at The Oaks Mall and Janss Marketplace since shopping malls are changing. The City should think proactively and not reactively. Support a global biotech hub in Thousand Oaks and want to continue to support Rancho Conejo north of the 101 freeway. o “Residents” historically have wanted buildings to be low profile to maintain mountain views. o Overall, the Plan is going in the right direction.
o Supportive of the mall areas and Village Center proposals. o Vision for the future is to have walkable, bikeable, destinations that are accessible by transit.
Desire to not have a landscape dominated by cars in the future. o At a high level, the proposed map is good, but does need a few tweaks. o We should remove mixed-use designations from sites we do not anticipate changing in the next 20 to 30 years. Those units should be reallocated to underutilized sites instead. o The plan does preserve long-standing principles like maintaining single-family neighborhoods, protecting open space, parks, and viewsheds. As well as focusing on job centers and the economy. o The plan should provide as much flexibility as possible along the 101 Corridor and throughout Thousand Oaks Boulevard.
o Mixed-use should be applied to the Oaks Mall, Janss Marketplace, along Thousand Oaks Boulevard in certain places, and the Borchard property.
o Consider a different designation for parcels that are 20 or 30 acres in size and greater. This could give flexibility to property owners while lowering the overall housing numbers that people are concerned with.
o Focus on opportunity sites identified by City Council. o Great job to the General Plan Team.
o Generally, support preferred land use map with a few tweaks. o Need for flexibility specifically the two large shopping centers. o Would like to see mixed-use Village Centers.
o Overall, the plan is well done.
o Echo several comments from other GPAC members.
o Feel that walkable Village Centers are important, especially for youth.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Following the small group discussions, report-outs, and GPAC direction, members of the public were invited to provide brief public comments. Nine members of the public participated. A summary of these comments is provided below.
• Thank you for a great meeting, I will provide additional comments via email.
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TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 6
• I am in support of future mixed-use development at the Borchard property with a buffer from the existing neighborhood.
• As the property owner, the goal for the Borchard site is to create a place that serves the Newbury Park community. There is a lack of gathering spaces in this neighborhood. We have a plan that includes open space, a buffer, and amenities, and want to work with existing residents to make this successful. • As a homeowner on Michael Drive, I support future development at the Borchard property. People are looking for areas to go and things to do, we would like to have something nearby that we can walk to. • The Greater Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce appreciates the discussion on the preferred land use map. Would like to see flexibility for more property owners in the form of more medium and high density in the appropriate areas. Also support the GPAC’s comment regarding concentrating new land uses on feasible sites that are likely to change in the next 20-30 years. • Casa Conejo neighbors are largely opposed to major development on the Borchard property due to flood control issues and waterfowl. We are in favor of something softer on this site. There are other shopping centers nearby that are more appropriate for entertainment uses. • As a residential and businessowner in Thousand Oaks, I am supportive of future development at the Borchard property. I would like to integrate a future tap room into the area as an extension of my business. I feel that the property owner wants to work with residents and make something that enhances the Newbury Park neighborhood and supports existing businesses like Amgen. • I am supportive of future development at the Borchard property and am encouraged by the design the property owner showed that includes a large greenbelt buffering single family homes. I think the concerns about flooding and habitat would be addressed through the planning process by turning that area into a greenbelt, instead of the split zoning that is proposed now. The property should have one mixed-use designation going forward. The Janss Marketplace and The Oaks Malls should be considered for mixed-use medium which would provide those property owners maximum flexibility for the future. • Of the previous three land use alternatives, the Greater Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce supported Map 1 because it offered mixed-use medium and mixed-use high. The survey results showed highest support for Map 1, and that was the basis for the new map (preferred land use map), but it removed the things we liked about map 1. We encourage the committee and City to add those things back into the preferred land use map. We want to promote affordable housing, but the only way to get affordable units is to allow higher densities.
NEXT STEPS
The meeting concluded with an overview of next steps, including how members of the public could provide feedback through the briefing book, online survey, and virtual office hours.
The meeting adjourned at 8:42 pm.
Attachments: Facilitator notes from GPAC and public small group discussions.
FACILITATOR WORKSHEET
Joint Workshop #3 and GPAC #15
Preferred Land Use Alternative | April 21, 2021
GPAC DISCUSSION QUESTIONS AND NOTES
Responses by the General Plan Team are italicized.
GPAC Member 1. How will the impacts of new residential units on schools be addressed? If too many new units are developed, the district may have to redraw boundaries and that could influence neighborhood schools. • While this is a valid concern, we do not know the makeup of residential units will be, so we cannot yet anticipate the impact to local schools.
GPAC Member 2. Regarding village centers, if we are not changing land uses, how do we ensure that kind of walkable aesthetic and environment is created? • We can use policies to influence the format of a commercial shopping center to look and feel more like a main street. If we move forward with commercial only village centers, the General Plan could be amended later to allow residential or mixed-use in these areas.
GPAC Member 3. I think we need to reiterate that future development will incorporate sustainable principles and nature through parks, open space, and landscaping. This community is very sensitive to the environment, we cannot lose sight of that when talking about the future.
GPAC Member 4. I think it would be a missed opportunity to not include mixed-use or residential units in village centers. They could provide housing opportunities for young families, young workers, and seniors, and help spread out the residential units so we do not overwhelm one area of town. It could create a designation that is walkable from existing neighborhoods, like a European High Street Model.
GPAC Member 5. In talking with the property owner, I think the proposed development at the Borchard site would be a good project that would take into consideration the concerns of adjacent neighbors.
GPAC Member 6. Why were certain areas identified as mixed-use medium and others were identified as mixed-use low?
• Certain areas have already been envisioned for higher density, like the Civic Arts Plaza and Downtown Core areas, while west
Thousand Oaks Boulevard near Tarantula Hill has new
development that could provide synergy. The Rancho Conejo area was selected due to the proximity to adjacent uses, so it could be viewed as another node.
GPAC Member 7. I think village centers need to include housing in the form of mixed-use because retail is changing, and we need room to evolve. The area around Borchard should include something other than single family homes, we need additional flexibility.
GPAC Member 8. Concerned with the scope of changes proposed in the plan. Do the changes have to be as big as they are presented? Can we meet RHNA without such sweeping changes? Can we take steps forward in a phased approach? Density alone will not solve housing affordability; we need policies to ensure future housing is affordable.
• Agree with your assessment that strong housing policies are needed to ensure future development is affordable. In previous conversations, members of the public brought up the need for an (updated) Inclusionary Housing Ordinance.
GPAC Member 9. I think we need to revisit the allowed uses across Mixed-Use Low, Medium, and High. Restaurants, retail, and hotels should be allowed across all three designations. Regarding The Oaks Mall and Janss Marketplace, I feel that Mixed-Use Low is insufficient to accommodate the future evolution of these shopping centers. Both centers should be up to Mixed-use Medium, and perhaps consider a residential unit cap to prohibit the site from turning to all residential and going beyond the Measure E capacity.
GPAC Member 10. I would suggest maintaining the Thousand Oaks Boulevard Specific Plan as much as possible. Incorporate the opportunity sites identified by City Council, including the YMCA property for housing or mixed-use. Remove the mixed-use designation on sites we know are not likely to change in the next 20-30 years, including the Promenade site. Provide more flexibility at the Oaks Mall and Janss Marketplace. Regarding the Borchard site, the residents prefer a buffer and the only way to achieve that is through a higher density designation like Mixed-Use Medium or Mixed-Use Low.
GPAC Member 11. I support village centers and wonder if we can include mixed-use anywhere within the industrial core of the Rancho Conejo area (north of the 101 Freeway).
GPAC Member 12. We should consider policies to maintain retail (like grocery stores) within mixed-use village centers. We want to balance new residential with amenities that support existing neighborhoods.
GPAC Member 13. Young adults would like to see walkable village centers and revitalization of the Janss Marketplace.
FACILITATOR WORKSHEET
Joint Workshop #3 and GPAC #15
Preferred Land Use Alternative | April 21, 2021
PUBLIC GROUP #1 DISCUSSION QUESTIONS AND NOTES
1. What is your reaction to the overall citywide preferred land use alternative map? Notes
• Need more housing
o Disappointed with the lack of high-density housing
o Village centers – no mixed-use, more human scale, more walkability ▪ Reuse existing vacant retail
▪ Transit hubs
▪ Distribute housing, etc.
o Taller buildings should be located at the Oaks Mall and Janss Marketplace
o Plazas and meeting spaces are needed
• Need affordable housing for young families, like starter homes, etc. • Do not concentrated multifamily housing
o Village centers should have housing
o Low density housing is preferred
o Move housing out by CLU and Moorpark Rd instead of Newbury Park • What about environmental considerations? Concern over infrastructure for water and transportation
• Consider ADU’s for additional housing units
• Concern over concentration of housing on TOB – traffic congestion, emergency evacuation
• Concern with building height increase but desire for affordability
2. What is your reaction to the preferred land use alternative for the Rancho Conejo area?
Likes
• Downtown/village center for Newbury Park – activities for young families/children Changes
• Park or water feature at Alice/Borchard property
• More housing by industrial north of 101
• Village center needed in Dos Vientos
• Less need for office and retail after COVID.
3. What is your reaction to the preferred land use alternative for the Moorpark Rd and West Thousand Oaks Blvd area?
Likes
• Flexibility at Oaks Mall area
4. What is your reaction to the preferred land use alternative for the Downtown and Thousand Oaks Blvd area?
(N/A)
5. What is your reaction to the preferred land use alternative for the Westlake and East End area?
Changes
• Lower building heights on Westlake Blvd (industrial flex)
6. What is your reaction to the preferred land use alternative for the Village Centers? (N/A)
FACILITATOR WORKSHEET
Joint Workshop #3 and GPAC #15
Preferred Land Use Alternative | April 21, 2021
PUBLIC GROUP #2 QUESTIONS, NOTES + REPORT OUT:
1. What is your reaction to the overall citywide preferred land use alternative map? Notes
• Why did Village Center make it to the Preferred Land Use Map? There seems to be comparable support as to the Oaks Mall in survey.
• Small amount of space to work with in T.O. for new housing. Would like to see map re-evaluated to maximize change also like to see Village Centers re- evaluated.
• Has City considered a Specific Plan overlay for Borchard site? Allows developer flexibility to plan the overall site with consideration of constraints.
Report out
• Mixed comments regarding the Alice/ Borchard site.
• Comments regarding re-visiting the Village Centers.
2. What is your reaction to the preferred land use alternative for the Rancho Conejo area?
Changes
• Concern regarding amount of change in the Rancho Conejo area and that it is where the most change/ new development will occur.
• “Alice” parcel should be re-designated to mixed use in its entirety. • Borchard/Alice site – concerns regarding parking if all mixed use.
3. What is your reaction to the preferred land use alternative for the Moorpark Rd and West Thousand Oaks Blvd area?
Likes
• 275 (?) East Moorpark- n/o Hillcrest – shows as Mixed Use Low -supports.
4. What is your reaction to the preferred land use alternative for the Downtown and Thousand Oaks Blvd area?
(N/A)
5. What is your reaction to the preferred land use alternative for the Westlake and East End area?
(N/A)
6. What is your reaction to the preferred land use alternative for the Village Centers? Likes
• Add here Why did Village Center make it to the Preferred Land Use Map? There seems to be comparable support as to the Oaks Mall in survey.
FACILITATOR WORKSHEET
Joint Workshop #3 and GPAC #15
Preferred Land Use Alternative | April 21, 2021
PUBLIC GROUP #3 QUESTIONS, NOTES + REPORT OUT:
1. What is your reaction to the overall citywide preferred land use alternative map? Notes
• Paul is interested in the Rancho Conejo/Newbury Park area • Mark is interested in TOB (mixed-use) and the SDA property as a residential site; all of TOB should allow for mixed-use
Report out
• Only focusing on the 10% of City that are “areas of change” was a good approach
• There was too much to absorb at once and during a pandemic (but this is a multi- year process and is still a work in progress)
• Initially worried about the survey due to the 3 alternatives but feel there is now a good compromise after seeing the results
2. What is your reaction to the preferred land use alternative for the Rancho Conejo area?
Likes
• Mixed-use North of the freeway near existing commercial areas and Amgen Changes
• SDA site to a residential designation
• South of the freeway should not allow tall buildings (not necessarily mixed-use development)
• Better access for less traffic
3. What is your reaction to the preferred land use alternative for the Moorpark Rd and West Thousand Oaks Blvd area?
Changes
• All TOB should be at least mixed-use medium, not all the sites will be developed that way in the future; equal rights to develop for all TOB property owners
4. What is your reaction to the preferred land use alternative for the Downtown and Thousand Oaks Blvd area?
Likes
• The areas that do allow for mixed-use medium
Changes
• All TOB should be at least mixed-use medium, not all the sites will be developed that way in the future; equal rights to develop for all TOB property owners • Better access to lower traffic
5. What is your reaction to the preferred land use alternative for the Westlake and East End area?
Likes
• Approved K-Mart pre-screen project is in a good location Changes
• Add here
6. What is your reaction to the preferred land use alternative for the Village Centers? Likes
• Village Centers are essential and key; people should be able to walk to the store nearby
Changes
• Having adequate parking if you’re adding mixed-use
Thousand Oaks General Plan Update
Summary | July 30, 2019
On June 24th and 25th, Raimi + Associates conducted twelve stakeholder interviews with Thousand Oaks industry leaders, educational entities, and community-based organizations about issues and opportunities for the Thousand Oaks General Plan Update. The comments received at these meetings have been categorized into one of four major categories – preserve, enhance, change opportunities, and barriers to change.
Members from the following affiliations were interviewed:
• California Lutheran University
• Caruso
• Conejo Valley Unified School District
• Greater Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce
• Los Angeles Rams
• Local Business owners
• Los Robles Hospital
• Macerich (The Oaks Mall)
• Newmark Merrill (Janss Marketplace)
• The Acorn
• Thousand Oaks Boulevard Association
• Thousand Oaks residents
• T.O. Arts
• Small town charm
• Safety
• Quiet and peacefulness
• Ring of protected open space
• Views
• Arts and culture
• High quality of life
• High quality public parks and recreation
• High quality public schools
• Strong relationships between community, City, and businesses o Reputation for family forward focused
• Presence of the Los Angeles Rams football team
• Housing opportunities
o Desire for a variety of different housing types at different price points • Entertainment and experience opportunities
o For youth, young professionals and families
• Meeting places for people
o Walkable spaces
o Expanded downtown
• Arts and culture
o Civic Arts Plaza programing - appeal to wider variety of patrons • Business-friendly reputation
• Nightlife
o More bars and lounges with good food
o More breweries
• Build on new businesses and residents’ desire to come to Thousand Oaks. • Los Robles Hospital Residency program begins July 2019 o Increase in medical students and physicians to the area • Demographics are changing
o Opportunities to appeal to new residents
o Desire for younger people to move (back) to Thousand Oaks • Newer companies and employers in Thousand Oaks
o More job opportunities
o Opportunity to become less of a commuter city and provide jobs and housing for more residents
• Opportunity to host the film industry
• Expand outdoors tourism
• Creative repurposing of land
o Redevelop and rebrand failing retail
o Develop amenity housing and multi-family housing
o Former K-Mart site
• General Plan can provide flexibility for development and future needs • Thousand Oaks Boulevard
o Desire for vertical mixed-use on Thousand Oaks Boulevard o Revitalize Thousand Oaks Boulevard
o Desire for high-end office space
o Desire for boutique hotel(s)
o Convert failing retail to other needed uses like office, entertainment or residential o Multifamily residential along the Boulevard
• Difficulty attracting employees to live/work in Thousand Oaks o Want more things to do and more affordable housing
• Too much retail in Thousand Oaks – retail is failing
• Changing identity of Thousand Oaks
o Some perception that local schools are going down hill o Increase in home invasions recently
• Local schools have had rapidly declining enrollment since 2010 • Hiring Special Education instructors is difficult
• Homelessness
• Traffic congestion (real/perceived)
• Market rate housing
• Aging community
• Changing economy
• Lack of diversity
• Businesses are having a harder time accessing funds than previously • Housing for students, CLU Faculty, and staff
• Many community members are opposed to needed change
• Jobs/housing imbalance
• Fear of stagnation
• Fear of businesses leaving because of housing un-affordability • Barriers to new development
o Codes are old and unclear
o Parks fees are very high
o Parking ratios are dated and too high
o Measure E
o Height limit is a barrier
o City’s regulatory process takes a long time
o Need incentives for affordable housing developers
o Lack of flexibility in current Code for modern uses such as co-working spaces o Density maximums are too low for development projects to be financially feasible for developers
o Difficulty adding residential units due to some community opposition • MOPs (Mothers Group)
• Calvary Community Church
• California Lutheran University
• TO Rotary Clubs
• Service Clubs such as Kiwanis
• Conejo Valley School District
o District Advisory Committee
o PTA
o Student DAV
o Special Education
Thousand Oaks General Plan Update
Session 1 Summary | July 17, 2019
On July 18th, 2019, HR&A Advisors, Inc. (HR&A) led a focus group meeting on economic development at City Hall as part of the City of Thousand Oaks General Plan update project. The event focused on soliciting feedback from key stakeholders on existing conditions and identifying local economic strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. A summary of key takeaways and overarching themes that emerged as a result of this discussion is provided below.
Members from the following affiliations participated in the discussion:
• California Lutheran University
• Caruso
• Lee & Associates
• Amgen
• CBRE
• Macerich
• NewMark Merrill
• Greater Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce
• TOBA (provided input separately)
• Location
o Proximity between universities like UCSB, UCLA, and Caltech o Near Los Angeles amenities without urban life
• Open Space
• Managed growth
• High quality of life
• Quality public schools
• High level of safety
• Bioscience industry
o Diverse
o Connected in region
• Availability of venture capital
• Retail
o Aging retail centers
o Oversupply of retail market
o Competition from neighboring cities
o Decline in traditional retail
▪ Auto Mall is key revenue generator for city
▪ Different consumption patterns for younger generations • Jobs
o Decline in bioscience jobs
o Decline in overall high-quality jobs, supplemented with lower paying jobs o Employers choosing to locate in other communities
• Housing
o Lack of affordable housing options
o Neighboring cities have pursued multi-family development ▪ Unmet demand in Thousand Oaks
▪ Need to attract young families
▪ Decline in Thousand Oaks school enrollment
o Community apprehension about multi-family housing/new housing development • Laborious entitlement process
o Pre-application process for new development is costly and time intensive ▪ Previously conducted solely by City staff
o Measure E results in cumbersome discretionary approval process • Lack of quality industrial space
o Small format buildings are needed
o Support companies as they grow
• Desire for more amenities on Thousand Oaks Boulevard
o Success of Tarantula Hill Brewing Company as evidence • Attract young families and maintain high-quality public schools • Attract new technology and (bio)science companies or startups • Synergy between neighboring bioscience companies
• City aid in business expansion
• Reposition and revitalize former or declining retail centers • Increase industrial space to support rising demand
• Streamline entitlement process
• Incentivize private employers to offer shuttles for workers commuting into Thousand Oaks • Cultivate new identity for Thousand Oaks
o Attract newcomers
o Clear vision for the future
o Promote Thousand Oaks
• Building stock of wet lab space
• Diversify housing stock
o Help fill open jobs
o Attract recent college graduate/young professionals
o Attract young families
o Provide housing options for service workers
• Regional transit
o Enhance transit options between nearby communities to help elevate commuting • Diversify city revenue base
o Over-reliance on retail sales
• Create a Downtown as central focal point
o Central node of activity
o Provides entertainment and amenities
o Attract younger generations
o Strengthen retail
• Make doing business easier
Summary | March 3, 2021
On March 3, 2021, Raimi + Associates led a focus group meeting via Zoom on environmental justice and equity as part of the Thousand Oaks General Plan update project. The group focused on soliciting feedback for SB 1000 requirements, discussion of inequities occurring in Thousand Oaks, a vision for an equitable city, and goals and programs to be included in the General Plan. A summary of the discussion is provided below.
Members from the following affiliations participated in the discussion:
• Buen Vecino
• Thrive Conejo
• Adelante Conejo
• Former CVUSD Board member
• We Belong 805
• 805 Resistance
• Senior Concerns
• National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) • Latino Connections Club Advisor
• Safe Passage
• Lutheran Social Services
• Plan for public finance, overall vision, and investment priorities • How were factors chosen, why was disability not considered? • Looking for General Plan timeline.
• When was the last time the Housing Element was updated? • Housing that is affordable (not be definition, but actually)
• Transportation – there is a lot of development is planning in the alternatives, but need to connect centers- seniors who are aging or homebound, and people with disabilities. • Issues or race that council is not ready to bring up for discussion in public. • Better, easier, walkable access to public parks and where they are. Interested to hear about cross-section between housing and pollution.
• Observing pockets of housing, right by the highway, thinking of fumes that people are breathing, children living there.
• Issues of race
• Issues with policing - whenever there’s a report for racist incidents, it’s hard to get good investigation and resources. For example, a South Asian family home was vandalized, and there wasn’t an interpreter to help them.
• Communication – Spanish-speaking families have no idea what’s happening in City Hall, need more advertisement in Spanish TV or radio for families and students. Need Spanish speaking interpreters and documents in multiple languages. • Wi-Fi and Computer Access – Need hotspots throughout the city and inexpensive laptops or devices for the community to have and use. Santa Paula did this for people right after the pandemic started.
• Access to food, transportation, internet. These are the minimum standards for all residents to have access to without regard to their economic status. • In order to get to a park, you have to drive. Should have parks in communities and access to parks for all residents, considering how much open space we have. • Things that affect people with disabilities affect Spanish speaking communities – where you live, access to food, low-income housing are the denominator. • Service available to all residents in Thousand Oaks should be available to all. • Agreeing to provide access is not the same as removing barriers. • Problem in TO with policing and mental health disorders, create a solution for it, it’s an equity and access issue for people with intellectual and mental disabilities. • No good internet infrastructure; became clear in pandemic. Its an opportunity to attract new businesses, can develop broad band for all at a minimum. • Transportation – would like to see TO commit to Vision Zero and use the equity indicators provided in the VZ.
• No comfortable biking in TO.
• Not safe to walk or cross streets (provided example of cross a street with disabled daughter who moves slowly and having to grab her arm and run across the street). • Buses were empty before COVID are empty now and transportation system is broken. • Concerns with having internet access when COVID started. • Lack of affordable and supportive housing for single-parent households. • Discrimination and racism against Latinos
• Affordable and safe homes for low-income families with children • Internet is like a utility now.
• Asian hate is on the rise, City Council is not comfortable talking about it; 805 has submitted a resolution; Chinese New Year and anniversary of Japanese internment was not celebrated, need some sort of master calendar to include all people in the community. TO sets a tone that is not welcoming to people who are not white and rich, but the community is much more diverse than that.
• Creates exclusion, fear, etc.
• Need equity and inclusion of cultures, languages, etc. • Exclusionary mindset in city – It’s in the fabric of the city, its not really intentional and there are small things that happen in daily life (subtle acts that happen every day everywhere create that atmosphere of exclusion); Shared example of being asked for ID as a Latina after the white person before her in line didn’t get asked for ID; innocuous but has an impact. • How to address he people that are afraid of affordable housing in their neighborhoods • Crux of new commissions and even in the General Plan, it will be important to call out white supremacy, so we can create a general plan that’s inclusive. • Don’t see people of color, cultural backgrounds, and people with disabilities considered in the city.
• Hopefully a commission can help with these issues, can’t make people change how they think but can have some regulations or ways of operating how meetings are done, how a General Plan is created.
• Discrimination by police and other entities is real and have seen it several times – traffic stops, cooperation with other cities that hire the sheriff’s office.
• Crunch generations *taking care of aging parents and young kids* want more zoning for granny flats and starter homes and wrap around services.
• Provide training on crisis intervention with staff.
• Have community liaisons.
• Need to do a Needs Assessment to capture what’s going on in areas where the data can’t show it. Equity analysis is not enough.
• Develop a DEI Commission that reviews developments.
• Require ongoing review of the General Plan and having DEI be a permanent part of the City. • Be intentional about engagement of people not usually involved in the planning process. • Be intentional with hiring for bilingual, bicultural, or other diverse experiences. • Be intentional with leadership development of people of different backgrounds in the City’s commissions and board or wherever else decisions are happening. • City should set the tone about racism, letting people know it not okay to be racist through education about the issues.
• Require training for city staff and council members in equity – it’s no longer okay to not understand how to change how you speak to and about people in the community. • Passing the resolution can be included as part of this General Plan. • Develop projections of expenses (fixed and major) as well as revenues for the General Plan implementation or even 5-10 years to show what we want to see if actually achievable – it’s affordable in the context of the budget and is only a small percentage of projected revenues and expenses.
• Send planning and land use development notices and materials in English and Spanish to send message to people that they’re welcome to participate. • Add subtitles/captions to all video meetings and announcements posted by the City. A great job is already being done with social media. On that note, closed captioning or ASL interpreter should also be a minimum for City communications, so people feel welcome. • Explore switching from buses to vans (ride share or dial-a-ride) and smart cars and other modes or services that are more convenient and serve the needs of young people (teens and students don’t really want to drive anymore).
• Sync local transportation from Conejo Valley to Moorpark College and improve headways for young people to be able to get to and from the college more easily.
Thousand Oaks General Plan Update: Arts and Culture Element STAKEHOLDER INTERVIEWS Summary | October and November 2019 Site Visits STAKEHOLDER INTERVIEW SUMMARY | 1
On October 14th and 15th, 2019 and November 18th and 19th, 2019, The Cultural Planning Group conducted 24 stakeholder interviews/meetings with Thousand Oaks’ civic leadership and arts stakeholders, about arts and cultural issues and opportunities for the Thousand Oaks General Plan Update. The comments received at these meetings have been categorized into major categories – preserve, enhance, change opportunities, and barriers to change. Members from the following affiliations were interviewed: City of Thousand Oaks Councilmembers City of Thousand Oaks leadership and staff California Lutheran University City of Thousand Oaks Youth Commission Conejo Valley Unified School District Conejo Recreation and Park District Civic Arts Plaza Resident Companies Cultural Affairs Department staff Visual Artists Thousand Oaks Alliance for the Arts Alliance Board (TO Arts) Thousand Oaks Library Services Culturally specific community groups PRESERVE • Richness of arts and cultural sector • History and heritage of Thousand Oaks • Civic connections among City, organizations, and residents • Civic Arts Plaza events/activities • Close and longstanding relationship with California Lutheran University • Close and longstanding relationship with Conejo Recreation and Park District • Highly-prized quality of life for community • Faith community • Youth community arts programming • Library system and programming ENHANCE/ATTRACT • Thousand Oaks as an “arts city” • Forge stronger community connections • Create a identity for the City • Create more gathering spaces • Spaces for large festivals and events • Opportunities for creative activities and events o For youth, young professionals and families • Build community connections between City and creative businesses/arts organizations
STAKEHOLDER INTERVIEW SUMMARY | 2
• Arts as a healing opportunity (trauma, teen issues) • Celebration of cultural diversity of community • Broaden focus to the arts outside of the Civic Arts Plaza • Communications and community calendar CHANGE OPPORTUNITIES • Engagement of artists in municipal government o Community engagement, transportation, communications • Expanded arts partnerships with libraries and California Lutheran University • Arts education in schools (serving needs of youth and cultivating the next generation of arts patrons) • New Campus Master Plan o Creative programming o Community gathering spaces o Performance spaces o Public art o New partnerships • Formal public art program • Art on trails and in parks • Artist live/work spaces and studios (adaptive reuse of retail, mixed-use development downtown) • Activities that appeal to younger members of community • Investment in cultural programming beyond the Civic Arts Plaza • Creative workers being attracted to the City due to biotech jobs o Create a culturally vibrant downtown • Retaining youth in community to work and live • Cross-over opportunities o Arts and eco-tourism o Arts and health and wellness programming BARRIERS TO CHANGE • Focus always on Civic Arts Plaza • Funding restrictions for the arts • Residents’ resistance to some forms of change • Affordable housing • Retaining and attracting young professionals due to lack of cultural vitality • Aging community • Lack of celebration of diversity KEY ORGANIZATIONS/GROUPS TO REACH • Creative businesses • Young professional employees • Faith organizations • California Lutheran University • Culturally specific groups and residents • Community youth • Culturally diverse residents
Thousand Oaks General Plan Update: Arts and Culture Element Arts Roundtable Discussion Summary | November 18th, 2019 As part of the City of Thousand Oaks General Plan Update, The Cultural Planning Group led an open town hall discussion group on the state of the arts in Thousand Oaks. The meeting was held Monday, November 18th, 2019, at the Civic Arts Plaza. The discussion focused on the current and desired state of the cultural life of Thousand Oaks. A summary of key takeaways and themes is provided below. Members from the following affiliations participated in the discussion: performing, visual and literary arts; arts organizations; artists; board members; arts administrators; arts educators; and other arts stakeholders. NOTABLE STRENGTHS/RESOURCES City has included an arts and cultural element in the GPU Arts and cultural funding available from City Talent/resources in community Diverse population, economically and socially Passion for the arts Visual and performing artists living and working in the community Community and professional organizations Civic Arts Plaza and other community venues Endowment for the arts Robust arts community Artistically talented youth Lots of great spaces for arts, indoor and outdoor Recreation and Park Department is strong and an unusual resource Community endorsed the Civic Arts Plaza Some schools have arts programs Strong arts philanthropy Lots of seniors who are arts volunteers Economic and educational level support greater awareness of the arts CHANGE OPPORTUNITIES Percent for arts tax (public art program) Dedicated funding for the arts Enhanced access to Civic Arts Plaza for the community Arts considered as a pillar of the city, along with economic vitality, recognition of the creative economy impact of the arts Better access to the arts, more inviting environment Unified arts curriculum for the schools
Increased City engagement and partnership with arts and cultural community to address challenges: • Creating more vibrant places and opportunities for new and existing residents • Addressing the gaps in arts education and programming • Addressing social issues (homelessness, teen depression, trauma, etc.) BARRIERS/GAPS Affordability of arts (for the community) Ability to afford to use the Civic Arts Plaza (for renters) Theaters are not supported by City (real/perceived) Inequities of arts education in schools No citywide master arts calendar Demographics are changing drastically • Decline in enrollment in schools • Aging population Cost of living / lack of affordable housing Lack of true cultural literacy in community Arts leadership homogenous (primarily White) California independent contractor rules are changing (will affect many individuals and small businesses) Thousand Oaks General Plan Update
October 2, 2019 | 6:00-9:00pm | Civic Arts Plaza – Janet & Ray Scherr Forum
On Wednesday, October 2, 2019 the City of Thousand Oaks hosted the first community forum to discuss big picture trends affecting the City as part of the General Plan Update, Thousand Oaks 2045.
The focus of the forum was on how to create happy and healthy communities. The forum took place at the Civic Arts Plaza in the Scherr Forum from 6:00 to 9:00 pm. The forum’s keynote speaker, Charles Montgomery, award-winning author and journalist, presented thoughts and ideas behind what aspects of the built environment make people happy within their City. The event had roughly 65 participants sign in using the attendance sheet and many other attended the forum without signing in, not including City staff. The estimated attendance was over 100 people.
The forum began with an introduction by Councilmember Al Adams, who discussed the history of the City’s General Plan. Matt Raimi, the lead consultant for the General Plan update, then provided context for the presentation including that the presentation was based on research but not all concepts would be applicable for Thousand Oaks. He also asked community members to complete a feedback form with three questions:
1. What ideas or concepts did you hear tonight that resonated with you and should be considered in the General Plan visioning process?
2. What ideas or concepts did you hear that you feel are not appropriate for the City of Thousand Oaks?
3. In what ways, if any, did the concepts presented change your views about land use, transportation or other planning-related topics?
Individual responses to these questions can be found in Appendix A.
Following this introduction, keynote speaker Charles Montgomery detailed scientific research connecting the built environment (the design of our streets, buildings) with measures of happiness including physical health outcomes, exercise levels, obesity, mental health, and connections with other residents. The overall conclusion of the presentation was that how we build our cities has an impact on the physical and mental health of residents.
Following the presentation, there was a question and answer session with Charles Montgomery. The topics of the questions included housing, neighborhood preservation, transportation safety (with a focus on bicycle and pedestrian safety), growth, and preservation of the scale and character of the community.
Twenty-three community members also completed the feedback form. The following is a summary of the responses organized by each of the three questions.
Key themes are summarized below:
What ideas or concepts did you hear tonight that resonated with you and should be considered in the General Plan visioning process?
• Attendees who completed the comment form overwhelmingly mentioned the need for creating a more walkable community and a safer pedestrian experience. Specific ideas that resonated included: more pedestrian crossings, pedestrian-only streets, slowing traffic in high traffic areas and traffic calming.
• The second most mentioned comment was the desire to increase cycling in the City by constructing a safer and more complete bike network. Many people like the idea of creating protected bike lanes (switching the location of bike lanes and parking to protect bikes). • While not universal, the exploration of mixed use and higher-density communities was frequently mentioned as a positive concept to explore in the General Plan update. Along with this, some people mentioned a desire to create mixed use along Thousand Oaks Boulevard, to create a downtown and to explore a “village” concept by redeveloping older malls with mixed use and locating more commercial development near residential areas. • Housing was mentioned a number of times including the need for new housing types (such as the “missing middle” [e.g., townhomes, fourplexes and walk-up apartments] and modular housing), more affordable housing, senior housing and how opposition to housing in the City has contributed to the lack of affordable housing.
• The desire for more gathering spaces was also mentioned as an important idea to explore in the General Plan update.
• Other ideas there were identified by respondents included the following:
o Reduce isolation and bring people together.
o Keep all existing open space, increase the amount of open space and only allow infill development.
o Explore steps to encourage public transit.
o Expand arts and culture, including tourism.
o Reduce parking.
o Involve children in planning.
o Make the City fossil free by 2030 and address climate change. o Explore equitable planning and environmental justice.
What ideas or concepts did you hear that you feel are not appropriate for the City of Thousand Oaks? • Majority of participants either did not fill in a response or responded that nothing presented was inappropriate for Thousand Oaks. One commenter said: “Good discussion with positive ideas – what’s inappropriate about that?”
• Approximately one quarter of responders mentioned that higher density development is not appropriate for Thousand Oaks. The reasons provided were that there is too much traffic, fire
trucks don’t reach above 3 stories, the community should remain suburban and lower density and there are already too many people living in the City. • Two people mentioned that affordable housing (or housing for people who cannot afford the high housing costs in the City) should not be considered in the General Plan. One commenter said: “We are out of room, sorry. And it’s not our job.” • Two commenters were concerned about civic engagement process for the General Plan. One said that the GPAC is not representative of the community and the other was concerned that the process would be dominated by white, male, homeowners. • Other comments included that embracing diversity will be challenging for Thousand Oaks residents and that bike lanes are not needed.
In what ways, if any, did the concepts presented change your views about land use, transportation or other planning-related topics? (Note that 5 of the 23 respondents did not complete this question.) • Like question one, the most mentioned concept was about bicycle and pedestrian transportation and the need to reduce automobile use. Some specific comments mentioned are listed below:
o “Relieved to hear that there are models to draw from to reduce auto dependence syndrome.”
o “Reinforced the walkability goals of design that I am familiar with.” o “Planning for a less auto-centric community.”
o “How ‘speed kills’-- pedestrians as well as an opportunity for connectivity, which is what fosters a sense of community.”
• Many respondents mentioned a changed or modified view of mixed use for Thousand Oaks, but several qualified their statement by limited the height or location of mixed-use buildings. Specific ideas included constructing mixed use in hubs, locating mixed use along Thousand Oaks Boulevard and the benefits of mixed use to building community interaction, reducing traffic and increasing the tax base. Some quotes from respondents included:
o “Some combination of residential/retail/commercial that does not increase density and noise; not over 3 stories.”
o “Business and housing ‘core’ can help tax base + reduce traffic” o “I’m more open to 3-5 story mixed use (business + residential) buildings.” o “The importance of mixed use building to build community.” o “Perhaps the boulevard as appropriate to build multi use buildings…” • Several respondents generally agreed with the direction of the ideas presented by Charles Montgomery. Specific comments included:
o “No change. Support the concepts presented.”
o “I agree with the speaker”
o “No change – validation.”
• Housing was mentioned multiple times including the need to address the issue of affordable housing.
• Other new concepts mentioned included
o Redesign the front of Civic Arts Plaza and parking in front of The Lakes shopping center.
o Thousand Oaks is for everyone/all kinds of people.
o Build connections and ways to be involved in the community. o Involve children in the visioning process.
o Do not give up any parks or open spaces.
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GENERAL PLAN 2045
• rooted In community ·
Thousand Oaks General Plan Update
January 29, 2020 | 6:30-8:30pm | Civic Arts Plaza – Janet & Ray Scherr Forum
On Wednesday, January 29, 2020 the City of Thousand Oaks hosted the second community forum to discuss big picture trends affecting the City as part of the General Plan Update, Thousand Oaks 2045.
The forum took place at the Civic Arts Plaza in the Scherr Forum from 6:30 to 8:30 pm. The event had roughly 50 participants, not including City staff.
After a brief opening by Mayor Al Adam, the forum’s keynote speaker, Joe Minicozzi, Principal of Urban3, explored the relationship between development type, city expenses for infrastructure and services, and city revenues. Mr. Minicozzi presented case studies from cities across the United States demonstrating impacts of development patterns on community economic health.
During the presentation and subsequent Q&A, Mr. Minicozzi challenged our assumptions about the relationship between land use, development intensity and tax revenues. He introduced the notion that a city is a social corporation that should build wealth and provide long-lasting community benefits. Further, a city should expect a return on its investment in infrastructure, particularly roads and utilities, by generating tax revenues to pay for the long-term maintenance of the infrastructure.
Using graphics and visual mapping, he showed how sprawling, low density development has resulted in inefficiencies compared to more compact development patterns. One of his key messages was to rethink revenue metrics; instead of examining revenues by project, we should examine tax revenues per acre. When revenues per acre are used it’s clear that higher density development uses land more efficiently and produces far greater returns for a city. For example, he compared a WalMart in Ashville, NC to a 6-story mixed use building downtown. In raw numbers, the 34-acre WalMart produces, $20M per year compared to only $11M for the 0.2-acre mixed use building. However, when comparing property and sales tax per acre, it becomes clear that the mixed use building is more efficient as it produces $634,000 in total property taxes and $84,000 in city sales tax per acre compared to Walmart’s $6,500 per acre in property tax and $48,000 per acre in sales tax.
Mr. Minicozzi showed how building types can produce different levels of county tax revenues. Using information from 21 of his studies, he found that a mall or strip commercial development produces $9.30 per acre in property taxes compared to $47.80 for a 2-story mixed use building, $95.00 for a 3 story mixed use building and $274.00 for a 6-story mixed use building. His message for cities like Thousand Oaks—that have limited land resources—is to consider more compact development as a critical strategy for generating tax revenues, which in turn pay for quality public services and the ongoing maintenance of existing infrastructure.
The presentation also included maps and data showing the visual and spatial implications of tax revenues per acre. One example from the City of Redlands is below. He used similar examples from:
Palmdale, CA; Davis, CA; Riverside and Eastvale, CA; Fresno, CA, Hennepin County, MN; Bozeman, MT; and other jurisdictions.
Mr. Minicozzi tied his presentation to Thousand Oaks 2045 by highlighting the opportunity to examine the relationship between Thousand Oaks’ land development patterns and long-term revenues and expenses. His message for the City and its residents is to use data, rather than values or feelings, to make land use and development decisions that provide wealth and generate revenue for the community. This will ensure that the City can maintain its high quality of life, preserve its open space and maintain public facilities and services.
Following the presentation, there was a question and answer session with Joe Minicozzi which is summarized below.
• One participant asked if the City has sufficient fire infrastructure (fire trucks, etc.) to support higher density development? Thousand Oaks City Manager, Andrew Powers, responded to this question noting that the City of Thousand Oaks has adequate fire infrastructure to support taller structures.
• Some residents posed a fear of development height above Thousand Oaks’ current height restrictions for fear of destroying town character. Mr. Minicozzi challenged the audience to think about how they define character.
• One participant asked when parking is not required for a business, patrons seem to park in other businesses lots and walk to their destination. Which could be considered a subsidy. Mr.
Minicozzi noted that a parking strategy can offer centralized parking lots (or structures) that serves surrounding businesses.
• Mayor Adam noted that Thousand Oaks lacks a street grid system like cities mentioned in the presentation (Pasadena and Santa Barbara), and asked, how Thousand Oaks could become more pedestrian friendly. Mr. Minicozzi noted that Thousand Oaks should consider the long-term cost benefit analysis of their current street system design and consider adding in a new roadway network in their downtown area. • One participant noted that they would summarize the presentation as encouraging building efficiency, not necessarily tall buildings.
• Matt Raimi, the City’s General Plan consultant, offered an observation while facilitating the question and answer session, noting that most of the development in Thousand Oaks occurred between the 1970s and 1990s. The infrastructure developed during those years is now coming due for major investments, and there is not a lot of new vacant land to produce taxes to pay for those impending costs.
• One participant asked what Mr. Minicozzi thought about the relationship between density and the changes in demographic makeup of a community. Noting that they think many communities reject the idea of density for fear of demographic shifts. • One participant asked for Mr. Minicozzi to elaborate on an example from his presentation regarding a downtown shoe store that brought high value to its community economic health. Mr. Minicozzi responded that the building footprint took up 100% of the lot and had high potency which yielded high taxes per acre, despite being a small structure. • Another participant asked whether tax values or assessed values were used in the presentation, and how California’s Prop 13 impacts reassessments here versus other states where such Propositions don’t apply.
• A participant asked how Thousand Oaks, which is mostly built out and over 90% of the land will not change in the next 20 years should consider redevelopment potential. Mr. Minicozzi responded that the city should look at the existing land use and tax data then develop a basic level of floor area ratio (FAR) needed t0 collect revenues to support ongoing infrastructures maintenance costs.
• Lastly, a participant asked if Thousand Oaks should consider trying to establish a street grid structure to accommodate more efficient use of land?
For more information and to watch a recording of the second community forum click here.
The community forum ended with an encouragement for audience members to spread the word about the General Plan and to attend the February 6, 2020 GPAC meeting.
September 12, 2019 | 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm | Los Robles Greens Golf Course Sunset Ballroom
On Thursday, September 12, 2019, the City of Thousand Oaks hosted the first workshop to engage the community in identifying the vision and key priorities for the Thousand Oaks General Plan 2045 update project. The workshop took place at Los Robles Greens Golf Course Sunset Ballroom from 6:00 to 8:30 pm and had approximately 126 attendees, excluding the consultant team, elected officials, and city staff. This workshop was the first in a series of four that will take place over the course of the General Plan update.
Upon arrival, participants were encouraged to visit six open house style activity stations. Participants perused the stations and gave feedback for the first hour, then the workshop formally began with an introduction by City Manager, Andrew Powers. Next, Matt Raimi, project consultant with Raimi + Associates, provided an overview presentation of the Thousand Oaks General Plan 2045 objectives, schedule, engagement program, and key existing conditions. Matt then introduced the small group discussions, and invited participants to begin.
The following summary highlights key themes and ideas from small group discussions and activity stations. This summary does not represent every comment made during the workshop. For detailed responses, see Appendix A.
The activity stations consisted of the following topics:
• What is a General Plan? – Station 1 provided a brief overview of what a General Plan consists of, why it is important for the City, and the role it plays in future growth and development. • Thousand Oaks at a Glance – Station 2 provided demographics of the City and statistics regarding housing, economics, education and transportation. • Demographic Information – Station 3 provided an interactive opportunity for participants to answer questions about their background. Participants placed stickers on an exhibit to share information about themselves, such as: age, ethnic background, if they live and/or work in Thousand Oaks and how long they have lived in the City. • Where Do You Live, Work, Shop, Play, and Learn in Thousand Oaks? – Station 4 allowed participants to identify on a map where they live, work, shop, play and learn throughout the City with colored stickers.
• What is Your Vision for Thousand Oaks 2045? - Participants were given a worksheet to draw or write their vision for Thousand Oaks. All worksheets were put on display during the workshop, so participants could view their neighbors’ responses. • Comments- At the comment station, participants were encouraged to submit written comments and input on the project.
Participants formed 16 roundtable groups of 6-8 participants, each with a facilitator from the project team. At the start of the discussion, facilitators and participants were give worksheets and encouraged to take detailed notes, which were collected by the project team at the end of the workshop. Each table was encouraged to spend approximately 15 minutes per question and the table’s designated reporter provided a summary of the group’s input at the end of the discussion.
Participants were asked the following questions:
1. What makes Thousand Oaks unique and special?
2. What are the issues and challenges that the City is facing today and in the future? What concerns do you have about the future?
3. What is your vision for Thousand Oaks in 2045?
Below is a summary of the major themes that were captured for each of the questions through the roundtable discussions.
• Preserve Assets. Many participants noted the open space, parks, access to nature, suburban character, family-friendly community and small town feel as key assets in the community that should be preserved.
• Issues and Challenges. Participants expressed fear of losing the current character and quality of life in the city, concern over the cost of housing, vacant commercial buildings, taking care of an aging population, traffic congestion, ensuring stable water supply, entertainment for youth and adults, and homelessness, among others.
• Opportunities. Participants named multiple opportunities including; revitalize Thousand Oaks Boulevard, adding a diversity of housing options including housing for employees who work in the city, creating a “downtown,” investing in local and small businesses, the retrofit or repurpose vacant properties, and more opportunities for cultural and entertainment events and venues.
• Vision for the Future. Participants envisioned creating more gathering spaces, maintaining parks and open space, expanding the age diversity of the population, growing in a sustainable way, creating a downtown with a mix of uses, improving the infrastructure in the city, expanding partnerships with local businesses and educational facilities, and preserving residential neighborhoods.
What makes Thousand Oaks unique and special?
• Fresh air and environment
• Safe and clean city
• Access to open space and nature
• Strong arts emphasis
• Citizen engagement in government
(committees, etc.)
• Not crowded
• Open space, trails, and oak tress
• Schools and quality of education
• Small town community feel
• Family friendly city
• Openness
• Well maintained neighborhoods
• Civic Arts Plaza and performing arts
• Ease of getting around – wide roads
and free parking
• Employer base
• Single family neighborhoods
• Ring of open space
• Biotech hub
• Equestrian properties and stables
• Parks, dog parks, hiking trails
• Historic preservation
• Accessibility of health care
What issues and challenges are the city facing today and in the future? What concerns do you have about the future?
• Lack of diverse and affordable housing
• Aging population
• Lack of low-income housing
• Need job opportunities for young
people
• Need better housing balance
• Dated development standards
• Demand for amenities and capital
infrastructure
• Underutilized commercial space
• Not pedestrian friendly
• Need greater environmental
protection
• Homelessness
• Pollution – air, noise, traffic
worsening
• Cell towers (5G) near residential
neighborhoods
• Dying retail
• Lack of public places or sense of place
• Wildfires and changing climate risk
• Unstable water supply and drought
risk
• Limited risk taking in local
government
• Stagnancy in development and
planning
• Must meet complex needs of
increasingly older population
• Need greater job diversity to support
living and working in Thousand Oaks
• Underestimating threats and crime
• Lack of racial diversity
• Lack of innovative mobility options
• Climate change affecting our open
space and oak trees
• Need to strengthen our disaster
preparedness for fires, earthquakes,
etc.
• Lack of entertainment and activities
for young people
• Need higher paying local jobs
• High cost to build housing or operate a
business in the city
• Extreme housing shortage
• High cost of local utilities
• Over building of apartments near
single family homes
• Don’t want to become the San
Fernando Valley
• Lack of public transportation (within
the city and out of the city)
• Need to maintain quality services with
rising population
• Health concerns – changes in wireless
technology, addiction, mental health
• Displacement of middle class
• Restrictions on cannabis
• Incomplete bike network
• Lack of railroad connection
• Need for affordable senior housing
What is your vision for Thousand Oaks in 2045?
• Preserved quality of life
• Preserved open space, nature, and oak
trees
• Sense of community
• Safe
• Low profile buildings
• Clean air
• Protection from changes in climate
• Sustainable and carbon neutral
• Light trail to Los Angeles and Ventura
(carbon neutral)
• Retain safety and open space
• Take risks in developing forward
thinking housing styles and
transportation systems
• Intergenerational living and
communities that support all ages
• Thousand Oaks Boulevard as a hip
gathering place with great shops, arts
and culture, and restaurants
• Expand Ventura County wildlife
corridor zoning
• Pedestrian oriented community
• Mixed use development
• Relevant for younger generations
• Less parking
• New employment opportunities –
ventures
• More inclusive
• Economically and racially diverse
• Socially balanced
• Economic sustainability
• Technologically advanced – smart city
• More accessible
• Entertainment district with nightlife
• Thousand Oaks Boulevard streetcar
• Easy to live and work in Thousand
Oaks
• Collaboration between the school
district and local government
• Repurpose vacant and underutilized
buildings
• Increased density along thousand oaks
boulevard
• Maintain safety
• Environmentally friendly
• Livable for young people
• Return of children who grew up in
Thousand Oaks
• Preservation of neighborhoods
• Zero waste community
The following results indicate who participated in the demographic information activity station.
Note that not all participants completed the demographics survey. • Live + Work in Thousand Oaks. Majority of participants live or live and work in Thousand Oaks. • Tenure in Thousand Oaks. Majority of participants who attended the workshop have lived in Thousand Oaks for more than 31 years. A high number of participants also lived in Thousand Oaks between 11-20 years and 21-30 years.
• Age. The highest number of participants fell into the 45-64 age category, while a high number also participants also fell into the 35-44 and 65 and older category. • Background. Majority of participants at the first workshop identified as White (not Hispanic).
The following results indicate where workshop
participants live, work, play, shop, and learn in
Thousand Oaks. Note that not all participants
completed the mapping activity.
Stickers indicated the following:
• Yellow = where you live
• Black = where you work
• Green = where you play
• Red = where you shop
• Blue = where you learn
Results were clustered around the following areas:
• Live
o Dos Vientos
o Newbury Park
o Westlake
o Wildwood
o Sunset Hills
o Central Thousand Oaks (both
sides of 23 Freeway)
• Work
o California Lutheran University
o Los Robles Hospital
o Elementary, Middle and High
Schools
o Rancho Conejo Business/
Industrial Center
o Townsgate Road Business Park
o Thousand Oaks Boulevard
• Play
o Parks, open space & trail heads
o Grant R. Brimhall Library
o The Oaks Mall and Janss
Marketplace
• Shop
o Arboles and Moorpark
Shopping Center
o The Oaks Mall and Janss
Marketplace and surrounding
areas
o Westlake Boulevard and
Thousand Oaks Boulevard
shopping centers
o Westlake Boulevard and
Hampshire Road shopping
Center
o Lindero Canyon Road
• Learn
o California Lutheran University
o Library and Senior Center
o Thousand Oaks Boulevard
o Hub 101
o The Oaks and Janss
Marketplace
The following summarizes highlights from the My Vision activity station. Individual responses to this exercise are included at the end of this summary in Appendix A. Note that not all participants completed the My Vision exercise.
Participants envision the following for Thousand Oaks 2045:
• High quality of life and welcoming
place to live
• No barriers between communities
• Focused on future generations
• Diverse, balanced, safe, friendly,
happy and prejudice free
• Sustainable, green, and carbon free
• Clean air and water
• Trees, nature, wildlife, and preserved
open space
• Less car-centric, and more walkable,
bikeable, and expanded trails
• Preservation of neighborhoods and
dark skies
• No additional growth or development
• No 5G small cell cites
• Reduced noise and traffic
• Preservation of Western culture
• Prepared for emergencies
• Diverse job opportunities, job
providers, and abundance of living-
wage jobs
• Vibrant Thousand Oaks Boulevard
• Filled with “third places” like a
Downtown, central district or old town
(note: the term “third place” refers to
places you spend your time outside of
work and home)
• Diverse housing options including
multi-generational, elderly, special
needs, homeless, and low-income
housing
• More entertainment options,
restaurants and local businesses
• Investments in technology and
innovation
• Smart growth, greater density, and
mixed-use development
• Regional transportation, light rail or
trolley, controlled traffic
• Most outstanding community in
southern California
• Youth in local leadership
At the end of the roundtable discussion report-outs, the floor was available for an open comment session and a selection of the comments that were made are listed below. • Concern about potential change to Thousand Oaks; many like the community as it is now. • Preserve the small-town feel, while incorporating progressive ideas of inclusivity to make the City more diverse.
• Develop in a smart and innovative way.
• Support public transit advancement.
• Concern over new technology that harms health (5G).
• Offer more programs to prevent homelessness including programs for veterans of war. • Expand on recreation and entertainment opportunities in the City, so people do not have to travel to Los Angeles or neighboring cities.
• Maintain the family-oriented atmosphere in the community and balance needs of young people and older adults.
• Desire to allow beekeeping in Thousand Oaks.
• Desire for hubs of community around town connected by light rail.
Live Presentation: Joint GPAC Meeting + Workshop #2
TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 1
THOUSAND OAKS GENERAL
PLAN 2045
JOINT GPAC MEETING + WORKSHOP #2
SUMMARY
February 2, 2021 | 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm | Virtual Zoom Webinar
OVERVIEW
On Tuesday, February 2, 2021, the City of Thousand Oaks hosted a joint General Plan Advisory Committee (GPAC) and public workshop to present three draft land use alternatives for the Thousand Oaks General Plan 2045 update project. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the workshop took place virtually as a Zoom Webinar from 6:00 to 8:30 pm. Approximately 255 attendees (including 17 GPAC members) joined the Zoom meeting, not counting the consultant team, elected officials, and city staff, with an additional 45 YouTube livestream views. GPAC members participated in the webinar as panelists and were able to use audio to ask questions, while members of the public joined as attendees and typed questions into the Q&A feature. This joint meeting was the second workshop in a series of four that will take place over the course of the General Plan update.
The joint event served as an overview of the materials presented in the Land Use Alternatives Briefing Book, which provides detailed background on the land use alternatives process and maps. The purpose of this event was to provide an overview of the three draft land use alternatives, answer questions from the GPAC and public about the alternatives and instruct the community about how to provide feedback on the land use alternatives. An online survey was available between February 2, 2021 and March 15, 2021, in English and Spanish, and was printed and hand delivered upon request.
The following summary includes an overview of the presentation, polling questions and results, and summar y of questions and answers from the GPAC and members of the public.
Live Presentation: Joint GPAC Meeting + Workshop #2
TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 2
PRESENTATION
The meeting began with an introduction by City Manager, Andrew Powers, and continued with a presentation by Matt Raimi, project consultant with Raimi + Associates. The evenings presentation was divided into several sections including background, alternatives overview, review of land use alternatives, comparison of alternatives, and conclusion and next steps. Throughout the presentation, the General Plan Team paused to answer questions and facilitate polls. Below are highlights of the presentation sections.
Background
The presentation began with a recap of the General Plan Update process, the benefits of a General Plan Update and key terminology used throughout the presentation of alternatives and in the briefing book. This also included an overview of Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) requirements, the City’s Measure E ordinance, and recent State SB330 legislation.
Alternatives Process
This section served as a precursor to the three land use alternatives by highlighting results from previous community engagement activities that led to the delineation of the areas of stability, where little to no change is anticipated, and areas of change, where the General Plan Team proposes changes in land use and or character. Matt noted that less than 8% of the City was identified as an area of change. Also presented in this section were the land use designations which included descriptions and supportive imagery.
Review of Land Use Alternatives
The land use alternatives are a long-term vision for the City that tests values and ideas from the community process. In this section, the three land use alternatives were presented highlighting the common themes and differences among the areas of change. The alternatives were also reviewed as five subareas: Rancho Conejo, Moorpark and West Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Downtown and Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Westlake and East End, and village centers within the City.
Comparison of Alternatives
Following the detailed overview of each alternative by sub area, Matt presented a high-level comparison of land use category percentages for the three alternatives and metrics comparing the existing 1970 General Plan to the three land use alternatives.
Conclusion and Next Steps
The meeting concluded with an overview of next steps, including how members of the public could provide feedback through the briefing book, online survey, and virtual office hours.
Live Presentation: Joint GPAC Meeting + Workshop #2
TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 3
POLLING
Throughout the presentation, the General Plan Team used informal polls to engage GPAC members and attendees.
Below are the poll questions and corresponding results. Please note that not all participants completed one or all polls, and the participants who connected by phone only did not have access to the virtual poll.
0.00%
10.00%
20.00%
30.00%
40.00%
50.00%
60.00%
70.00%
80.00%
90.00%
Live Work Own a
business
Own a
property
None of
the
above
Do you live and or work in
Thousand Oaks?
GPAC + Public Responses
0.00%
5.00%
10.00%
15.00%
20.00%
25.00%
30.00%
35.00%
40.00%
If you live in Thousand Oaks, how
long have you lived here?
GPAC + Public Responses
0.00%
20.00%
40.00%
60.00%
80.00%
100.00%
Rent Own
If you live in Thousand Oaks, do
you rent or own your home?
GPAC + Public Responses
0.00%
10.00%
20.00%
30.00%
40.00%
50.00%
60.00%
Under 18 25-34 35-44 45-64 65 or
older
What is your age?
GPAC + Public Responses
Live Presentation: Joint GPAC Meeting + Workshop #2
TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 4
0.00%
10.00%
20.00%
30.00%
40.00%
50.00%
None, this is my first 1-3 meetings 4-6 meetings 7 or more meetings How many General Plan-related meetings and events
have you attended?
GPAC + Public Responses
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
30%
35%
40%
NO. Continue to allow
townhomes and small
apartments in Medium
Density Areas
YES. Lower the density and
transfer the capacity to the
Areas of Change
A combination of the above don't know
The existing General Plan allows for townhomes and small apartments to be built in some single-family areas. The proposed alternatives would reallocate this unbuilt residential capacity into the Areas of Change. Do you agree with this approach?
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
30%
35%
In Rancho
Conejo
At The Oaks
Mall or Janss
Marketplace
Near Downtown On the eastern
end of
Thousand Oaks
Boulevard (e.g.,
the Pavilion at
Westlake)
Around
Westlake Village
Shopping Center
In shopping
centers
throughout the
City
No preference
What is your top choice for where housing should be added? Live Presentation: Joint GPAC Meeting + Workshop #2
TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 5
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
90%
Yes, add a mixed-use district for
employees to live near where they
work
No, maintain the area for jobs only Not sure
Do you think that mixed-use development should be allowed in or immediately adjacent to Rancho Conejo?
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
30%
35%
Leave it as a regional mall Maintain some retail but
allow townhomes and 2-3
story multifamily residential
Redevelop with “main
street” retail and 3-4 story
mixed-use
Redevelop with “main
street” retail and 5-6 story
mixed-use
What best describes your vision for the future of The Oaks Mall? 0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
30%
35%
40%
45%
Leave it as a regional mall Maintain some retail but
allow townhomes and 2-3
story multifamily residential
Redevelop with “main
street” retail and 3-4 story
mixed-use
Redevelop with “main
street” retail and 5-6 story
mixed-use
What best describes your vision for the future of Janss Marketplace? Live Presentation: Joint GPAC Meeting + Workshop #2
TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 6
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
90%
Yes No Not sure
Should multifamily residential development be allowed on Thousand Oaks Boulevard?
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
Keep as-is Increasing development potential and
employment opportunities in the area
Allow a portion to convert to mixed-
use
What best describes your vision for the Townsgate Road area? Live Presentation: Joint GPAC Meeting + Workshop #2
TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 7
QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS
Throughout the presentation, the General Plan Team paused for questions to allow for discussion and input. The General Plan Team answered various questions from the GPAC, and the public submitted through the Q&A feature in Zoom Webinar. Questions and comments from the GPAC and the public are listed below (bolded) along with the General Plan Team responses (italics).
Questions from the GPAC
As the population and number of housing units increases on Thousand Oaks Boulevard, will the Plan include required publicly accessible parks and open space? How does that fit into the general plan designations?
The General Plan will identify general areas where new public parks are needed, but it cannot designate private property as parks or open space, as it would eliminate that property’s development potential and monetary value. City- owned property can be designated as future parks.
RHNA numbers are significantly higher than previous cycles, does this include a “catch up” set of numbers? Can you provide background on these numbers?
This round does include an increase because over the last 30 years the State has not kept up with population growth and housing demands. The last time California was this unbalanced was in the 1980s. As a State, we are in a housing deficit of about 2.4 million units. This RHNA cycle was an attempt to begin to make up for that deficit. It is unclear if the State will continue to use higher numbers in the future.
How does transit factor into the land use designations? Is proximity to transit a factor when considering residential types?
More people in a concentrated area and higher density residential results in more successful transit options. The areas identified by the GPAC and the public for higher density housing happen to be in locations that may be viable for public transit.
To what extent will we build in assumptions about retail space and office space based on the COVID-19 pandemic?
There are knowns and unknowns related to the pandemic and its impact to the build environment. We know that retail and types of retail will likely change permanently, while the verdict is still out on office space. We are currently seeing development projects moving forward with office components across the city.
Can you summarize what the General Plan is, and what it isn’t, how it relates to city council, assisting property owners, etc.?
The General Plan is the long-term vision and policy document for the city, often referred to as the city’s constitution. All decisions about development flow from the General Plan and future policy documents must be consistent with the General Plan. The General Plan sets forth land use designations, which regulate, at a high level, future uses that are allowed on each property within the City. General Plan land use designations feed into Zoning, which includes dimensional requirements for properties like building height, setbacks, etc. There are a series of other documents and regulations that implement the vision of the General Plan. The General Plan does not build or demolish buildings, it sets the vision of the future of the City, and it is at the discretion of property owners to make changes to their property according to the vision and guidance set forth in the General Plan.
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TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 8
Is parking a factor in the alternatives development process? In the speaker series (General Plan Community Forum #2) it was mentioned that many cities over develop parking, which goes unused. Can developers repurpose parking lots into housing and/or mixed-use development? Parking was considered in a limited capacity at this phase, but the General Plan does not specify the amount of parking required for development. The General Plan can include parking related policies, but parking specifications are addressed through the Zoning Code.
Quality of life is the concern for many residents – do we have enough land to increase population? Are we going to reduce the existing quality of life?
One of the challenges the General Plan update process tries to balance is preserving quality of life and making changes that people want to see in the City. In general, we see that the best performing retail spaces can have traffic congestion around them, and the commercial spaces with plenty of parking are not performing as well. The alternatives will look for balance between activity and accessibility.
Do these three alternatives stand on their own? I saw great components of each that I liked. Are there opportunities to pull different components from each?
Yes, the goal of the alternatives phase is to test different ideas. In some instances, we are looking at the extremes to test what works and gain insight from the community. The preferred land use alternative may ultimately be a combination of all three alternatives with new components as well. The survey asks specific questions to identify what components resonate with the community.
Throughout the alternatives process, have you considered ownership of property? What is the path to seeing the changes in the alternatives process realized? In this phase, we did not do a detailed analysis of property ownership, although through city staff we had general sense of what that looked like. Moving forward, we want to look at ownership patterns and likelihood of development. That is the difference between buildout and growth projections. Through the horizon of the General Plan (2045) we will be analyzing what could happen in roughly the next 25 years.
Questions from the Public
The following questions were asked in the Zoom Q&A feature and answered verbally by the General Plan Team.
Is parking included in FAR ratios?
Surface parking and structured parking above grade is included in FAR, while below grade parking is not.
Given the number units needed for low and very low-income housing, will the city proactively identify areas and subsidize development for these kinds of Affordable projects? After the preferred land use alternative is confirmed, the City will be required to identify specific locations that could accommodate low and very low-income housing as part of Regional Housing Needs Allocation and the Housing Element. Related to subsidies, the General Plan will address housing through policies and programs.
Can you provide more detail related to the parks and open space question? While we cannot designate private property for parks or open space, all new residential multifamily development is required to provide parks/open space for all units and common parks/open space as part of development standards.
Can you build taller structures thereby reducing the new land needed to develop? The alternatives explore those options. The alternatives have different organizations of land by either concentrating the development through taller structures or increasing the number of areas proposed for residential development.
Live Presentation: Joint GPAC Meeting + Workshop #2
TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 9
Reducing vehicle miles traveled (VMT) is becoming an important part of land use planning – are any land use alternatives future scenarios that reduce VMT being considered? Yes, VMT is one of the metrics that is considered when evaluating the three land use alternatives, in addition the EIR will consider the impacts to VMT through the proposed land use changes.
What will ultimately be presented to City Council?
Feedback from the survey, office hours, and this meeting will direct changes to the land use alternatives, which will be presented to City Council and Planning Commission in the Spring.
Have the previous General Plans been directed by State mandated housing laws or where they directed by a locally driven process?
A combination of both, this update process includes all Elements of the General Plan, however, the housing element has several State requirements that must be addressed every 8 years. There are repercussions for not having a certified housing element in each of the 8-year cycles, the city would not be eligible for grant funding that could limit or reduce many capital programs.
What is the penalty for violating SB 330?
Recent legislation puts financial penalties on a city for not complying with SB 330.
After the General Plan is adopted, how would a property owner go about requesting a land use change? Individuals would have to apply for a General Plan and Zoning amendment that would be analyzed at that time, considering the existing local ordinances (Measure E) and state requirements. We encourage folks to make detailed parcel-level comments on the briefing book and the survey, as this is a good opportunity to work through potential changes.
Do the units have to be built?
The General Plan needs to Plan for and maintain 81,124 units, but development of housing units is dependent on individual property owners. The General Plan does not build or demolish any buildings.
The following questions were asked by members of the public and answered in writing by the General Plan Team through the Zoom Q&A feature during the presentation.
Question Asked In Q&A Response In Q&A
Will you make the maps interactive so that
when you click on a parcel it tells you the
GP designation? Other cities do this to
make it more user friendly and technically
accurate for residents and professionals
viewing the maps.
After this presentation, we will provide information on how to access interactive maps that allow you to click on a parcel and check its designation.
Are there any plans to pre-zone
unincorporated islands? Although not discussed in tonight’s presentation, the General Plan land use map will include designations for the
unincorporated county islands. No changes are being proposed for those areas.
Since there are 33,043 units available
under Measure E, how many are currently
under consideration?
As explained in the presentation, the General Plan needs to maintain the capacity for 81,124 units. These do not need to be built but planned for.
Live Presentation: Joint GPAC Meeting + Workshop #2
TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 10
Who are our hosts for this? City of Thousand Oaks and the General Plan consultant team We all understand what a "taking" is,
however, all these new housing units will
require new parks. How will this be
addressed?
City staff is working with CRPD to discuss where new housing units would potentially be built under each of the alternatives, and how that would result in needs for new or expanded park facilities. It is ultimately CRPD’s decision as to where they will place new parks to best meet the demand, and to purchase the property needed for those parks using parks impact fees collected from developers.
I am hard of hearing. Is there a way to get
subtitles? closed captioning will be available on the city's YouTube channel tomorrow.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t8YP74Kqkvw&feature=yo
utu.be
How do I access closed captioning? Can an
ASL interpreter be provided? closed captioning will be available on the city's YouTube channel tomorrow.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t8YP74Kqkvw&feature=yo
utu.be
Are granny flats counted toward the stock
numbers? Granny flats are not included in the total unit counts Could you post a link to the briefing book? https://raimi.konveio.com/thousand-oaks-2045-land-use- alternatives
Please point me to where the survey
resides on the page? I see a link for survey
results, but not tonight’s polls.
https://www.toaks2045.org/landusealts
I do not see a survey link on the main
website. https://www.toaks2045.org/landusealts
I’m on the city website and don’t see the
link for the land use link https://www.toaks2045.org/landusealts Each parcel that has been separately
delineated on the map should include the
acreage. It isn't hard to do. They did it
when they reconfigured Measure E.
I am checking with our GIS folks. We can add to the interactive maps tomorrow. Stay tuned. This capability was added after the meeting.
All the questions being posted are not being
seen by all attendees. I apologize for the inconvenience. I am unsure why this is happening. I encourage attendees to review the briefing book and respond to the online alternatives survey to record their comments. www.toaks2045.org
Will all the questions that are not being
answered or shown on screen be addressed
later somewhere?
If your question was not answered tonight, please attend one of our upcoming Virtual Office Hours. We received over 200 questions and tried to get to as many as possible. Thank you all for the great and thoughtful questions!
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TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 11
What is the threshold for low income? Income categories are based on a percentage of the median income for the county. Additional information is in the Briefing Book.
Are residents able to vote yes or no on
proposed developments in their area? Individual residents do not vote on proposed developments, Planning Commissioners and/or the City Council vote on
projects. Residents are encouraged to participate in the public process providing input during environmental document review, public hearings and submitting correspondence to the City to help inform the decision makers.
Can you incorporate live work as a form of
mixed use in the General Plan? Live work would be permitted in mixed use areas Also, can we propose land uses currently
not identified to be included within the
proposed alternative change areas?
Matt will be describing these later in the presentation Also, how does the 2,615 needed units
under the state plan “fit” within the
available units under Measure E?
Measure E limits the citywide residential capacity. Many areas of the city were built at a lower density than what was allowed by the General Plan, resulting in unbuilt residential capacity.
The land use alternatives propose reallocating this unbuilt capacity from established residential neighborhoods into the Areas of Change.
What is the penalty for planning for or
building all 81,000 units? Measure E requires that the city not plan for more than 81,124 units, while SB 330 says the city may not plan for less than that number.
Is this a new survey or is it the one we had
opportunity to fill out a month or two ago? New survey. https://www.toaks2045.org/landusealts Is it still possible to become a member of
the GPAC? Please attend future GPAC meetings. these are open to the public. Please sign up for notification of these meetings on www.toaks2045.org
It appears that the outcome already seems
made and the representatives of the
community is very small as there are over
100,000 people. What are you doing to get
the community involved and not push the
destruction of the community?
Please help us get as much feedback from the widest cross section of the TO community. Please respond to the online alternatives survey. www.toaks2045.org
The survey is open for the month of February.
what if we live and work in Thousand Oaks? please pick one.
The 3 options are heavily weighted on
Mixed Use. Are there still options to
consider Low Density SFD on certain
parcels?
Please provide this comment in the online survey for areas where you think Low Density SFD development would be
appropriate.
How can I get a briefing book? Is there a
link on City website? Please review the briefing book and respond to the current survey at www.toaks245.org.
Live Presentation: Joint GPAC Meeting + Workshop #2
TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 12
How much impact does input have at this
point? Could public input influence which
sites are recommended to City Council?
Please review the briefing book and respond to the current survey at www.toaks245.org. This is the start of the public review process and your input is valuable
How can I obtain a copy of the 70 page
Briefing Book? Is it "online"? Please review the briefing book at www.toaks245.org.
I'm going to understand better once I've
had a chance to read all this. It's a lot to
process from a presentation. I'd like to have
a pdf of the slides as well, the keys are too
small to read on zoom.
Please review the briefing book which has detailed information and interactive maps and respond to the survey at
www.toaks2045.org.
wow! the poll answers are full of bias, and
none offer an open ended response. Please take the online alternatives survey which allows you to record open ended responses. www.toaks2045.org
Would like to know how many units of
housing each of the alternatives is allowing.
Are all alternatives going to allow for an
equal number increased housing units?
Please take time to read the Land Use Alternatives Briefing Book. https://www.toaks2045.org/events
All alternatives cannot allow more or less units overall due to SB 330 and Measure E.
What about solar over parking and
buildings? Solar is now required for all new residential statewide Why do ADUs/Granny Flats not count
toward Measure E mandates? can this be
modified?
State Law does not allow ADU's to count towards land use density/capacity. Measure E cannot be modified to count ADU's as part of overall dwelling capacity.
The poll is not in conflict with the prior
poll, the question was should mix use be
allowed in NBP, the answer is yes....the
question wasn’t whether it should be
concentrated there...if that was the
question the answer would be no
Thank you for the clarification
I think the difference in opinion re: Rancho
Conejo is related to information given
regarding Alt 1 - Alt 3. We did not have this
visual when first poll regarding same was
asked.
Thank you for the clarification
Whose quality of life? The families doubled
up into apartments because they cant find a
home?
Thank you for your comment. Please also record your thoughts on the online survey. https://www.toaks2045.org/landusealts Concerned about impact to traffic of
additional development around TO
Blvd/WL Blvd. Traffic getting to and from
high school is already so challenging (pre-
Covid when school was in session)
Thank you for your comment. Please be sure to record your comment on the online alternatives survey as well.
www.toaks2045.org
Re Poll 4 - The residential areas should go
out into the business/industrial part of
Rancho Conejo. They are NOT compatible
Thank you for your feedback. Please be sure to record your comment on the online alternatives survey as well.
www.toaks2045.org
Live Presentation: Joint GPAC Meeting + Workshop #2
TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 13
with the neighborhoods on the South side
of the 101.
Live Poll # 4 did not include the answers I
needed to provide. Nothing in this City
should be higher than 3 stories. That's our
limit.
Thank you for your feedback. Please be sure to record your comment on the online alternatives survey as well.
www.toaks2045.org
Does this company understand that this city
doesn't want mixed use and they need to
come up with a non mixed plan. Your polls
all assume we are on board for mixed use
which I guarantee you we are not.
Thank you for your feedback. Please be sure to record your comment on the online alternatives survey as well.
www.toaks2045.org
I see another option for the mall as a
transport hub so residents to telecommute
commute but get out of their homes.
therefore, the mall becomes a “WeWork”
type of space as well. This does not exclude
the “mixed use” model, but “Mall as transit
hub” should be considered as a future
option.
Thank you for your feedback. Please be sure to record your comment on the online alternatives survey as well.
www.toaks2045.org
Move the Toyota used car lot into the car
area south of the Blvd. It's an eyesore. Thank you for your feedback. Please be sure to record your comment on the online alternatives survey as well.
www.toaks2045.org
Mixed Use growth...got it...move on to the
next section Thank you for your feedback. Please be sure to record your comment on the online alternatives survey as well.
www.toaks2045.org
(BTW...The 2 pdf downloads of the Land
Use Alternatives briefing books do not
seem to have separate unique file names
when downloading them.)
Thank you, we will fix after this meeting.
I believe the link in response to Larry
Turner was missing a 0...it should be
https://www.toaks2045.org/
thank you.
some of these areas already have multi-
family neighborhoods. Does this mean you
would knock it down and rebuild it?
That is dependent of the private property owners. The General Plan sets the policy whereby a property owner could propose redevelopment if it complies with density and other policies.
What is the green area on Westlake and
East End Alt 1? That is SCE property along Hampshire, which is designated Utilities and Flood Control.
Do they have a financial interest in what
happens? Are they tied in with any
developers?
The consultants do not own any property in the city and have been retained by the City to prepare a GP Update.
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TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 14
Do we have enough water supply to fulfill
the requirements of measure E units in
Thousand Oaks?
The current Urban Water Management Plans for the multiple water purveyors all account for the amount of Measure E units under the 1996 General Plan. The General Plan Update
Environmental Impact report will analyze water supply under the preferred land use scenario, which will also have to be compliant with Measure E, just analyzed under current water supply circumstances.
Is the thought to take down the mall and
build new? The development envisioned in the land use alternatives could involve demolition and replacement of existing buildings, repurposing of existing buildings, and/or new buildings to supplement existing buildings. It is up to each property owner to determine if, when, and how to redevelop their properties. The mall and many other properties in Thousand Oaks have very large surface parking lots that could be used as locations for new buildings. The parking could be replaced with parking structures.
Can you repost the slides of the areas to be
developed? The entire presentation will be posted on the web site at toaks2045.org after the meeting. All the maps and information in the presentation are also included in the Briefing Book which is available now on the web site.
The Mixed Use land designations of Low,
Medium, & High have corresponding FAR of
0.25, 0.5, 1.0. The FAR seems to be
extremely low and not proportion to
density to achieve a reasonable size of
dwelling units. To reach these densities at
say a 0.5 FAR would have to be micro units
and not suitable for families. Is this correct?
The FAR is only for the commercial portion of a mixed-use development
Can you touch on the funding
mechanisms/strategies for implementation
at this stage in the planning process?
The General Plan puts policies in place to manage development that is initiated by the private sector based on market conditions. The City would not itself build any of the
development envisioned by these land use alternatives.
500 survey responses is not predictable of
the city desires. There are 130,000 people
and only 400_ responded. An additional
survey should be sent out now that the
program has visibility.
The General Plan update process is ongoing and there are ongoing opportunities to provide additional input. Please review the briefing book and respond to the current survey at
www.toaks245.org.
Can you please type in the Q&A what Matt
said in response to Rorie's question about
parks not being provided for thousands of
new housing units? Very important
question.
The GP will assess the need for new parks. However, the city cannot designate private property as parks or open space.
is the GPAC group voting, or just the
residents participating? The GPAC and the attendees are all voting Live Presentation: Joint GPAC Meeting + Workshop #2
TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 15
Given the additional 2,600 RHNA units, will
the City maintain the "unit pool" system
used under Measure E? Or will that be
changed?
The Housing Crisis Act of 2019 (SB 330) requires the City to allocate all of its residential capacity onto the land use map. The current “pool” system will be discontinued with the updated General Plan.
Given the # of units we need for low and
very low income residents, will the city
work proactively to identify parcels and
subsidize development of affordable
projects?
The Housing Element, which is a part of the GP process, will identify housing sites.
Will the planners or sustainability office
compare VMT's and estimated GHG
emission increases or reduction of each
alternative?
The metrics for VMT and GHG will be presented later in the presentation
Any indication whether those commercial
properties will actually be utilized in all
that mixed use? A town I used to live in
went very mixed use heavy at one point,
and most of the commercial spaces were
never leased. Has there been research into
the demand?
The mixed-use designations envision different options for providing a mix of uses with varying degrees of commercial and residential based on location and market conditions. We recognize that the traditional mixed-use format of retail on the ground floor and residential above does not work in all locations and can result in vacant commercial spaces if not implemented properly.
Does the City have a jobs growth goal that
was used for the alternatives? The numbers being presented are build-out numbers. how do I get to that firs poll we had? my
friend just logged in, Carol, and wants to
take it.
The poll was an informal survey at the start of the presentation.
It is now closed. The official survey will collect demographic information.
Not all questions are posting to everyone.
No censoring please. The questions and responses are available to all attendees and GPAC members.
Where can I find the list of stakeholders
who were consulted earlier on? The stakeholder summaries are available on the project website. www.toaks2045.com
How can you fulfill the state requirements if
you can not get any property owners to go
along with any Alternatives?
The State requires cities to plan for more housing understanding that the property owners have the choice to develop.
will measure E be repealed? There are no plans to repeal Measure E.
Also, is there any consideration to allow
affordable housing to be developed upon
church/synagogue land (without requiring
any type of General Plan amendment)?
There is state legislation under consideration to allow church properties to have housing by right.
None of your designs have rooftop gardens
for commercial or residential. These type of design components would not be part of the General Plan. Those type of requirements can be incorporated into zoning ordinance update, which would follow policy direction from the General Plan.
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TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 16
What changes in city infrastructure are
required and accordingly incorporated in
the plan to accommodate this increase in
housing and commercial density.
This will be studied as part of the Environmental Impact Report, which will be available for public review later this year.
Is there a paper version of the survey that is
being distributed, to include the input of
folks without computer or Internet access?
To request a paper copy of the Briefing Book and survey, please email [email protected].
What about traffic impact? Many roads are
near gridlock at certain times of the day.
Adding density will make this worse. As
density increases near the freeway, there
will be less space remaining to
accommodate traffic (adding turn lanes, for
instance).
Traffic will be analyzed under the Environmental Impact Report. State Law requires a new metric for analyzing
transportation, which is Vehicle Miles Travelled.
Can a property's land use designation still
be considered after this meeting for
another use? For example, if none of the
alternatives allow for housing, is there an
opportunity to add before final vote?
We are looking for all input. Please provide your comments through the survey and interactive maps provided on
www.toaks2045.com.
The final decision will be made by the City Council later this Spring.
It is critical that acreage be provided for
each parcel you're showing. If the plan is to
go to mixed use "high" (45-60 units per acre
with a possible density bonus of 35% or
greater for "affordable"), the public should
be able to determine what the ultimate
increase in intensity would be at build-out.
We have some overall acreage numbers that will be presented shortly. These are also included in the briefing book.
www.toaks2045.org
Will you add acreage for the parcels to the
map? We will check and see if that is possible.
Will these slides be made available after
the meeting? Yes
Will the housing element explore ADU's and
strategies to encourage these units? Yes
Are there any traffic studies being
conducted for these alternatives? Yes, the EIR will include traffic studies Will this PPP be available in the TO2045
website? yes. Also, please review the briefing book and respond to the current survey at www.toaks245.org.
Will a transportation impact study be done
to evaluate future land use scenarios? Yes. An Environmental Impact Report (EIR) will be prepared to analyze the potential environmental impacts that would result from implementation of the General Plan, including
development that may result from the preferred land use alternative. A transportation impact study will be conducted as part of the EIR. The Draft EIR will be released for public review along with the complete draft General Plan later this year.
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TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 17
will all of these alternatives allow for the
81,000 housing units that are needed Yes. As described earlier, State law requires that the capacity is maintained.
Will the questions be archived? Yes. Please also provide your input by completing the survey.
Does the state mandate the number of low
income units that are required? Yes. The RHNA allocation has a breakdown of units by income levels
Other Comments
The workshop accumulated hundreds of comments and questions - some were addressed verbally to all in attendance at the workshop, some were addressed through the written Q&A feature, and some could not be addressed due to time constraints. The major themes of the latter comments and questions are summarized below. • Please provide closed captioning, ASL interpretation, and translation at future meetings. • Housing affordability, senior housing, and multigenerational housing needs are issues that need to be addressed.
• Consider rephrasing “protect single family neighborhoods”. • How is the City analyzing needs of our local community, economy, and environment? • Please clarify the thresholds for low and very low-income housing and if that addresses housing needs for those who are experiencing homelessness.
• Please clarify Measure E local ordinance and the State’s RHNA allocation process. • How will the General Plan address inclusion, incorporate active transportation, gentrification, and address parking?
• Are minority communities, populations with disabilities, and those without internet access being proactively reached through the General Plan process?
• Will the General Plan address sustainability solutions like zero carbon housing, and are there energy use goals and requirements for the future?
• How will water supply be addressed?
• Does the General Plan accommodate existing population or entice new populations? • Are there any plans to pre-zoning unincorporated County islands? • Can you touch on the funding mechanisms or strategies for implementation at this stage in the planning process?
• Are there options to add more single family residential? • Can the acreage be provided for each parcel within the change areas? • Are there job growth targets or targets for the types of jobs being created? • Concerned about new development and potential changes to City’s character. • Will there be impacts to the local school district?
• Will a form-based code be prepared?
• Will the General Plan prepare a land use/zoning consistency analysis? • Access to affordable housing for people of all ages is a huge issue.
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TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 18
• Why do the alternatives propose so much retail space? • Will the General Plan include updates to infrastructure? Specifically bicycle infrastructure. • Are there public funds available to incentivize development according to the General Plan? • Why do the alternatives focus on the 101-corridor so heavily? • How does the Thousand Oaks Boulevard Specific Plan interface with the new General Plan?
Joint GPAC Meeting + Workshop #3
TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 1
THOUSAND OAKS GENERAL
PLAN 2045
JOINT GPAC MEETING + WORKSHOP #3
SUMMARY
April 21, 2021 | 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm | Virtual Zoom Meeting
Attendees
GPAC Members
Present: Andy Fox, Chaise Rasheed, Darren Bovard, Dustin Woomer, Fred Fukunaga, Jacqueline Emanuel, Jennifer Lobenhofer, Dr. Karen Gorback, Laura Behjan, Mic Farris, Nicholas Reale, Rorie Skei, Dr. Victor Hayek
Absent: Alicia Rincon, Amy Commans, Dr. Chris Kimball, Dena Jenson, Emily Dale, Ken Lamont, Michael Nigh.
Patrick DuRoss, Paul Shrater, Tara Carruth, Wyatt McCrea Public
This was a virtual meeting; hence no public sign-in is available.
Overview
On Wednesday, April 21, 2021, the City of Thousand Oaks hosted a joint General Plan Advisory Committee (GPAC) and public workshop to present the preferred land use map for the Thousand Oaks General Plan 2045 update project. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the workshop took place virtually as a Zoom Meeting from 6:00 to 8:30 pm. Approximately 75 attendees (including 13 GPAC members) joined the Zoom meeting, not counting the consultant team, elected officials, and city staff, with an additional 100 YouTube views. Members of the public could register in advance to join the live meeting along with GPAC members. Both GPAC and members of the public had access to video and audio throughout the presentation and discussion. This joint meeting was the third workshop in a series of four that will take place over the course of the General Plan update.
The joint event provided a brief overview of the land use alternatives survey results and supplemental analysis, an overview of key components of the preferred land use map, and breakout group discussions among GPAC and community members. The General Plan Team also announced the preferred land use map survey which was open between April 20 and May 12, 2021 and available in English and Spanish.
The following summary includes an overview of the presentation, community small group discussions, GPAC direction, and public comment.
Joint GPAC Meeting + Workshop #3
TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 2
Presentation and Discussion
The evening kicked off with a presentation by Matt Raimi, project consultant with Raimi + Associates, which was divided into several sections including background and process overview, land use alternatives survey results, overview of preferred land use map, and next steps.
Below are highlights of the presentation by section and group discussions.
PRESENTATION
Background + Process
Matt introduced the meeting objectives, how community members can provide feedback on the draft land use map, an overall update on the General Plan Update process.
The land use alternatives process overview included a recap of the flow of work, areas of change and stability map, high-level comparison of the three land use alternatives, and overview of the survey. In this section, Matt shared some of the community engagement activities conducted for the three land use alternatives, survey statistics, demographics of survey respondents, and results of detailed sensitivity analysis.
Land Use Alternatives Survey Results + Preferred Land Use Map
This section outlined the preferred land use process, proposed designations, and details of the land use alternatives survey results and how they relate to the new preferred map. The preferred land use map incorporated components of the three land use alternatives based primarily on survey results. The preferred map provides less total development capacity and maximum density compared to the previous three alternatives.
Matt highlighted the overall characteristics of the preferred land use map, then reviewed each of the five geographic areas relating survey feedback to the preferred map changes. Matt noted that the vast majority (83%) of the citywide preferred land use map is made up of single-family residential and parks, golf courses, or open space.
Preferred Land Use Alternative Next Steps
At the end of the presentation, Matt shared key dates and next steps in the preferred land use map process including the survey open through May 12, 2021, presentations to Planning Commission on April 26, 2021 and City Council on May 18th and 25th.
DISCUSSION
Breakout groups
After the presentation, members of the public and GPAC dispersed into small groups to discuss the preferred land use map. The GPAC remained in the main Zoom room, while members of the public were invited to join breakout groups with a facilitator. Members of the public could opt out of a breakout group and instead observe the GPAC discussion.
Joint GPAC Meeting + Workshop #3
TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 3
Discussions took place for roughly one hour and were guided by two questions. For each area, both GPAC and members of the public were asked, “What did you like about the preferred land use alternative map?” and “What changes do you think should be made to the map?”
Once discussions concluded, the meeting reconvened for highlights shared by the small group facilitator. Below are summaries from public small groups’ report-outs.
Small Group Report Out (Public)
Group 1
• Discussion focused on big-picture citywide vision.
• Opinions split between those who wanted more housing, mixed-use, higher density, and taller building heights verses those who wanted lower density, lower building heights, and less mixed use. • Majority support housing in village centers and share a desire for more public meeting space like plazas. • Majority support flexible designations for large retail centers. • Group had split opinions on the future of the Borchard site, some in favor of mixed-use, and others in favor of maintaining single-family residential designation.
Group 2
• Discussion focused on the Rancho Conejo subarea because many participants did not feel comfortable discussing subareas they were not familiar with.
• Felt the Borchard property has a lot of potential and should allow for higher density residential. Many participants asked questions regarding the proposed split designation and preferred a single mixed-use designation.
• Acknowledged the need for affordable housing and felt the village centers were a good way to provide additional housing.
• Majority were disappointed village centers don’t include any residential and are commercial in the proposed land use map.
• Many felt The Oaks Mall and Janss Marketplace could include higher density residential.
Group 3
• Majority agree with the approach of focusing change to subareas and maintaining majority of the city in current configuration.
• Discussion focused on Rancho Conejo and Thousand Oaks Boulevard. • In the Rancho Conejo subarea, had the following recommendations:
o Supportive of mixed-use north of the 101 freeway.
o Not supportive of tall buildings south of 101 freeway. o Current vacant property in the northwest corner of the Rancho Conejo subarea (commonly referred to as the “goldfish” or “7th Day Adventist” property) should be residential, not industrial as proposed.
o Consider access and circulation in the area.
• Felt overall the preferred land use map is in a good place, with a few caveats. • Thousand Oaks Boulevard Specific Plan Area should treat all property owners the same, allowing for Mixed Use Medium across all parcels. Similarly, the Oaks Mall and Janss Marketplace should allow greater flexibility.
• Supportive of the Westlake and East End proposed land uses.
Joint GPAC Meeting + Workshop #3
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• Parking should be addressed within village centers if mixed-use is added.
GPAC Direction
After listening to public small group report-outs, members of the GPAC took turns sharing their final thoughts and overall review of the preferred land use map. Note that all members of the GPAC in attendance shared their opinion at this time (one GPAC member left the meeting early and therefore did not provide their opinions). Below is a summary of the direction received from the GPAC as well as individual comments from GPAC members.
Summary:
10 members of the GPAC supported the direction of the preferred land use map, but offered specific tweaks to the map:
o Introduce mixed-use at some of the village centers.
o Propose mixed-use across the Borchard property.
o Provide flexibility and focus mixed-use throughout the Thousand Oaks Boulevard corridor. o Add increased residential density at the Oaks Mall and Janss Marketplace. o Remove mixed-use designations from sites we know are not likely to change in the next 20-30 years.
These GPAC members shared support for specific elements of the preferred land use map:
o Mixed-use at the Oaks Mall and Janss Marketplace.
o Emphasis on walkability and livability.
o Maintained community character by preserving parks, open space, and single-family neighborhoods.
o Expansion of jobs and focus on local economy.
2 members of the GPAC felt cautious about the preferred land use map, noting the scope of changes and potential impacts to schools, views and a potential to transform the overall character of the community as concerns.
GPAC member comments:
o Overall, the preferred land use map is reasonable and does not change most of the land in the city. o The City has done a great job of reaching out to community members through outreach. o The Borchard property owner is a lifelong resident and does not want to negatively affect the neighbors with future development. The proposed development there would be mutually beneficial for neighbors, businesses, and the city as a whole. o Cautious and hesitant to accept the preferred land use map as it stands now. There are impacts that will need to be addressed like school enrollment.
o Supportive of providing flexibility through higher densities at only The Oaks Mall and Janss Marketplace.
o Prefer to spread out density across the city.
o The preferred land use map is going in right direction, small tweaks are needed to increase flexibility.
o The Oaks Mall and Janss Marketplace both have too much parking, those areas could support future housing.
o The preferred land use map is going in the right direction. o Consider allowing more uses (like hotels) and providing greater flexibility on height and density for retail centers.
o Agree with other GPAC members that some of the large retail centers in the Westlake and East End (i.e., The Promenade) are not going to change, so the mixed-use designation should be moved elsewhere.
o The preferred land use map is moving in the right direction. o The General Plan is not about buildings; it is about people, enhanced livability, and making the City a better place to live, work, raise a family, and grow old. In the future we need to make those connections clear with the proposed changes to the General Plan.
Joint GPAC Meeting + Workshop #3
TO2045 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE | 5
o Village Centers would be a great place to live in the future. o Thankful to the Team for preparing this information and providing outreach to the community. o Generally supportive of the preferred land use map. Some tweaks are needed to address the concerns and comments raised tonight including:
▪ Some village centers should allow mixed-use.
▪ Not comfortable increasing heights or densities beyond what is proposed. ▪ Overall want to maximum flexibility.
o Overall, the map is a balanced approach that preserves what this community has built over the course of its history.
o The team has done a great job synthesizing input and preparing the preferred land use map.
Thank you for the effort and progress.
o By-in-large the preferred land use map is going in the correct direction, but a few tweaks are needed including adding mixed use to the Village Centers and allowing increased flexibility for The Oaks Mall and Janss Marketplace. Additional housing units should go in these locations. o Cautious of the scope and size of proposed changes, seems out of historic character for Thousand Oaks. The proposed map includes some great resources for us to consider. o There are changes we need to make, State requirements, and inevitable economic changes are coming.
o Recommend or support changes at The Oaks Mall and Janss Marketplace since shopping malls are changing. The City should think proactively and not reactively. Support a global biotech hub in Thousand Oaks and want to continue to support Rancho Conejo north of the 101 freeway. o “Residents” historically have wanted buildings to be low profile to maintain mountain views. o Overall, the Plan is going in the right direction.
o Supportive of the mall areas and Village Center proposals. o Vision for the future is to have walkable, bikeable, destinations that are accessible by transit.
Desire to not have a landscape dominated by cars in the future. o At a high level, the proposed map is good, but does need a few tweaks. o We should remove mixed-use designations from sites we do not anticipate changing in the next 20 to 30 years. Those units should be reallocated to underutilized sites instead. o The plan does preserve long-standing principles like maintaining single-family neighborhoods, protecting open space, parks, and viewsheds. As well as focusing on job centers and the economy. o The plan should provide as much flexibility as possible along the 101 Corridor and throughout Thousand Oaks Boulevard.
o Mixed-use should be applied to the Oaks Mall, Janss Marketplace, along Thousand Oaks Boulevard in certain places, and the Borchard property.
o Consider a different designation for parcels that are 20 or 30 acres in size and greater. This could give flexibility to property owners while lowering the overall housing numbers that people are concerned with.
o Focus on opportunity sites identified by City Council. o Great job to the General Plan Team.
o Generally, support preferred land use map with a few tweaks. o Need for flexibility specifically the two large shopping centers. o Would like to see mixed-use Village Centers.
o Overall, the plan is well done.
o Echo several comments from other GPAC members.
o Feel that walkable Village Centers are important, especially for youth.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Following the small group discussions, report-outs, and GPAC direction, members of the public were invited to provide brief public comments. Nine members of the public participated. A summary of these comments is provided below.
• Thank you for a great meeting, I will provide additional comments via email.
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• I am in support of future mixed-use development at the Borchard property with a buffer from the existing neighborhood.
• As the property owner, the goal for the Borchard site is to create a place that serves the Newbury Park community. There is a lack of gathering spaces in this neighborhood. We have a plan that includes open space, a buffer, and amenities, and want to work with existing residents to make this successful. • As a homeowner on Michael Drive, I support future development at the Borchard property. People are looking for areas to go and things to do, we would like to have something nearby that we can walk to. • The Greater Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce appreciates the discussion on the preferred land use map. Would like to see flexibility for more property owners in the form of more medium and high density in the appropriate areas. Also support the GPAC’s comment regarding concentrating new land uses on feasible sites that are likely to change in the next 20-30 years. • Casa Conejo neighbors are largely opposed to major development on the Borchard property due to flood control issues and waterfowl. We are in favor of something softer on this site. There are other shopping centers nearby that are more appropriate for entertainment uses. • As a residential and businessowner in Thousand Oaks, I am supportive of future development at the Borchard property. I would like to integrate a future tap room into the area as an extension of my business. I feel that the property owner wants to work with residents and make something that enhances the Newbury Park neighborhood and supports existing businesses like Amgen. • I am supportive of future development at the Borchard property and am encouraged by the design the property owner showed that includes a large greenbelt buffering single family homes. I think the concerns about flooding and habitat would be addressed through the planning process by turning that area into a greenbelt, instead of the split zoning that is proposed now. The property should have one mixed-use designation going forward. The Janss Marketplace and The Oaks Malls should be considered for mixed-use medium which would provide those property owners maximum flexibility for the future. • Of the previous three land use alternatives, the Greater Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce supported Map 1 because it offered mixed-use medium and mixed-use high. The survey results showed highest support for Map 1, and that was the basis for the new map (preferred land use map), but it removed the things we liked about map 1. We encourage the committee and City to add those things back into the preferred land use map. We want to promote affordable housing, but the only way to get affordable units is to allow higher densities.
NEXT STEPS
The meeting concluded with an overview of next steps, including how members of the public could provide feedback through the briefing book, online survey, and virtual office hours.
The meeting adjourned at 8:42 pm.
Attachments: Facilitator notes from GPAC and public small group discussions.
FACILITATOR WORKSHEET
Joint Workshop #3 and GPAC #15
Preferred Land Use Alternative | April 21, 2021
GPAC DISCUSSION QUESTIONS AND NOTES
Responses by the General Plan Team are italicized.
GPAC Member 1. How will the impacts of new residential units on schools be addressed? If too many new units are developed, the district may have to redraw boundaries and that could influence neighborhood schools. • While this is a valid concern, we do not know the makeup of residential units will be, so we cannot yet anticipate the impact to local schools.
GPAC Member 2. Regarding village centers, if we are not changing land uses, how do we ensure that kind of walkable aesthetic and environment is created? • We can use policies to influence the format of a commercial shopping center to look and feel more like a main street. If we move forward with commercial only village centers, the General Plan could be amended later to allow residential or mixed-use in these areas.
GPAC Member 3. I think we need to reiterate that future development will incorporate sustainable principles and nature through parks, open space, and landscaping. This community is very sensitive to the environment, we cannot lose sight of that when talking about the future.
GPAC Member 4. I think it would be a missed opportunity to not include mixed-use or residential units in village centers. They could provide housing opportunities for young families, young workers, and seniors, and help spread out the residential units so we do not overwhelm one area of town. It could create a designation that is walkable from existing neighborhoods, like a European High Street Model.
GPAC Member 5. In talking with the property owner, I think the proposed development at the Borchard site would be a good project that would take into consideration the concerns of adjacent neighbors.
GPAC Member 6. Why were certain areas identified as mixed-use medium and others were identified as mixed-use low?
• Certain areas have already been envisioned for higher density, like the Civic Arts Plaza and Downtown Core areas, while west
Thousand Oaks Boulevard near Tarantula Hill has new
development that could provide synergy. The Rancho Conejo area was selected due to the proximity to adjacent uses, so it could be viewed as another node.
GPAC Member 7. I think village centers need to include housing in the form of mixed-use because retail is changing, and we need room to evolve. The area around Borchard should include something other than single family homes, we need additional flexibility.
GPAC Member 8. Concerned with the scope of changes proposed in the plan. Do the changes have to be as big as they are presented? Can we meet RHNA without such sweeping changes? Can we take steps forward in a phased approach? Density alone will not solve housing affordability; we need policies to ensure future housing is affordable.
• Agree with your assessment that strong housing policies are needed to ensure future development is affordable. In previous conversations, members of the public brought up the need for an (updated) Inclusionary Housing Ordinance.
GPAC Member 9. I think we need to revisit the allowed uses across Mixed-Use Low, Medium, and High. Restaurants, retail, and hotels should be allowed across all three designations. Regarding The Oaks Mall and Janss Marketplace, I feel that Mixed-Use Low is insufficient to accommodate the future evolution of these shopping centers. Both centers should be up to Mixed-use Medium, and perhaps consider a residential unit cap to prohibit the site from turning to all residential and going beyond the Measure E capacity.
GPAC Member 10. I would suggest maintaining the Thousand Oaks Boulevard Specific Plan as much as possible. Incorporate the opportunity sites identified by City Council, including the YMCA property for housing or mixed-use. Remove the mixed-use designation on sites we know are not likely to change in the next 20-30 years, including the Promenade site. Provide more flexibility at the Oaks Mall and Janss Marketplace. Regarding the Borchard site, the residents prefer a buffer and the only way to achieve that is through a higher density designation like Mixed-Use Medium or Mixed-Use Low.
GPAC Member 11. I support village centers and wonder if we can include mixed-use anywhere within the industrial core of the Rancho Conejo area (north of the 101 Freeway).
GPAC Member 12. We should consider policies to maintain retail (like grocery stores) within mixed-use village centers. We want to balance new residential with amenities that support existing neighborhoods.
GPAC Member 13. Young adults would like to see walkable village centers and revitalization of the Janss Marketplace.
FACILITATOR WORKSHEET
Joint Workshop #3 and GPAC #15
Preferred Land Use Alternative | April 21, 2021
PUBLIC GROUP #1 DISCUSSION QUESTIONS AND NOTES
1. What is your reaction to the overall citywide preferred land use alternative map? Notes
• Need more housing
o Disappointed with the lack of high-density housing
o Village centers – no mixed-use, more human scale, more walkability ▪ Reuse existing vacant retail
▪ Transit hubs
▪ Distribute housing, etc.
o Taller buildings should be located at the Oaks Mall and Janss Marketplace
o Plazas and meeting spaces are needed
• Need affordable housing for young families, like starter homes, etc. • Do not concentrated multifamily housing
o Village centers should have housing
o Low density housing is preferred
o Move housing out by CLU and Moorpark Rd instead of Newbury Park • What about environmental considerations? Concern over infrastructure for water and transportation
• Consider ADU’s for additional housing units
• Concern over concentration of housing on TOB – traffic congestion, emergency evacuation
• Concern with building height increase but desire for affordability
2. What is your reaction to the preferred land use alternative for the Rancho Conejo area?
Likes
• Downtown/village center for Newbury Park – activities for young families/children Changes
• Park or water feature at Alice/Borchard property
• More housing by industrial north of 101
• Village center needed in Dos Vientos
• Less need for office and retail after COVID.
3. What is your reaction to the preferred land use alternative for the Moorpark Rd and West Thousand Oaks Blvd area?
Likes
• Flexibility at Oaks Mall area
4. What is your reaction to the preferred land use alternative for the Downtown and Thousand Oaks Blvd area?
(N/A)
5. What is your reaction to the preferred land use alternative for the Westlake and East End area?
Changes
• Lower building heights on Westlake Blvd (industrial flex)
6. What is your reaction to the preferred land use alternative for the Village Centers? (N/A)
FACILITATOR WORKSHEET
Joint Workshop #3 and GPAC #15
Preferred Land Use Alternative | April 21, 2021
PUBLIC GROUP #2 QUESTIONS, NOTES + REPORT OUT:
1. What is your reaction to the overall citywide preferred land use alternative map? Notes
• Why did Village Center make it to the Preferred Land Use Map? There seems to be comparable support as to the Oaks Mall in survey.
• Small amount of space to work with in T.O. for new housing. Would like to see map re-evaluated to maximize change also like to see Village Centers re- evaluated.
• Has City considered a Specific Plan overlay for Borchard site? Allows developer flexibility to plan the overall site with consideration of constraints.
Report out
• Mixed comments regarding the Alice/ Borchard site.
• Comments regarding re-visiting the Village Centers.
2. What is your reaction to the preferred land use alternative for the Rancho Conejo area?
Changes
• Concern regarding amount of change in the Rancho Conejo area and that it is where the most change/ new development will occur.
• “Alice” parcel should be re-designated to mixed use in its entirety. • Borchard/Alice site – concerns regarding parking if all mixed use.
3. What is your reaction to the preferred land use alternative for the Moorpark Rd and West Thousand Oaks Blvd area?
Likes
• 275 (?) East Moorpark- n/o Hillcrest – shows as Mixed Use Low -supports.
4. What is your reaction to the preferred land use alternative for the Downtown and Thousand Oaks Blvd area?
(N/A)
5. What is your reaction to the preferred land use alternative for the Westlake and East End area?
(N/A)
6. What is your reaction to the preferred land use alternative for the Village Centers? Likes
• Add here Why did Village Center make it to the Preferred Land Use Map? There seems to be comparable support as to the Oaks Mall in survey.
FACILITATOR WORKSHEET
Joint Workshop #3 and GPAC #15
Preferred Land Use Alternative | April 21, 2021
PUBLIC GROUP #3 QUESTIONS, NOTES + REPORT OUT:
1. What is your reaction to the overall citywide preferred land use alternative map? Notes
• Paul is interested in the Rancho Conejo/Newbury Park area • Mark is interested in TOB (mixed-use) and the SDA property as a residential site; all of TOB should allow for mixed-use
Report out
• Only focusing on the 10% of City that are “areas of change” was a good approach
• There was too much to absorb at once and during a pandemic (but this is a multi- year process and is still a work in progress)
• Initially worried about the survey due to the 3 alternatives but feel there is now a good compromise after seeing the results
2. What is your reaction to the preferred land use alternative for the Rancho Conejo area?
Likes
• Mixed-use North of the freeway near existing commercial areas and Amgen Changes
• SDA site to a residential designation
• South of the freeway should not allow tall buildings (not necessarily mixed-use development)
• Better access for less traffic
3. What is your reaction to the preferred land use alternative for the Moorpark Rd and West Thousand Oaks Blvd area?
Changes
• All TOB should be at least mixed-use medium, not all the sites will be developed that way in the future; equal rights to develop for all TOB property owners
4. What is your reaction to the preferred land use alternative for the Downtown and Thousand Oaks Blvd area?
Likes
• The areas that do allow for mixed-use medium
Changes
• All TOB should be at least mixed-use medium, not all the sites will be developed that way in the future; equal rights to develop for all TOB property owners • Better access to lower traffic
5. What is your reaction to the preferred land use alternative for the Westlake and East End area?
Likes
• Approved K-Mart pre-screen project is in a good location Changes
• Add here
6. What is your reaction to the preferred land use alternative for the Village Centers? Likes
• Village Centers are essential and key; people should be able to walk to the store nearby
Changes
• Having adequate parking if you’re adding mixed-use
54.57%
239
5.02%
22 38.58%
169
1.83%
8 Q1
Do you live and/or work in Thousand Oaks? Select one.
Answered: 438
Skipped: 1
TOTAL
438
#
NEITHER LIVE NOR WORK IN THOUSAND OAKS (IF NEITHER, WHAT BRINGS YOU TO THOUSAND OAKS?)
DATE
1 meow
10/29/2019 2:11 PM
2 proximity
10/26/2019 11:51 AM
3 Grew up in TO and visit regularly
10/25/2019 1:48 PM
4 Shopping/restaurants
10/25/2019 1:37 PM
5 i live nearby
10/23/2019 6:56 PM
6 I was born there and I miss it tremendously. It is the greatest city on the face of the Earth. 10/16/2019 3:54 AM
7 Local land use attorney; prospective resident
10/15/2019 5:16 PM
8 Surrounded by City of Thousand Oaks in Newbury Park
9/26/2019 7:21 PM
Live in
Thousand Oaks
Work in
Thousand Oaks
Live and work
in Thousand...
Neither live
nor work in...
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
90%
100%
ANSWER CHOICES
RESPONSES
Live in Thousand Oaks
Work in Thousand Oaks
Live and work in Thousand Oaks
Neither live nor work in Thousand Oaks (If neither, what brings you to Thousand Oaks?) 1 / 70
TO2045 Community Survey #1
2.76%
12 11.49%
50 8.28%
36 19.08%
83 19.31%
84 34.02%
148
5.06%
22 Q2
If you live in Thousand Oaks, how long have you lived here? Answered: 435
Skipped: 4
TOTAL
435
1 year or less
2-5 years
6-10 years
11-20 years
21-30 years
31+ years
N/A
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
90%
100%
ANSWER CHOICES
RESPONSES
1 year or less
2-5 years
6-10 years
11-20 years
21-30 years
31+ years
N/A
2 / 70
TO2045 Community Survey #1
Q3
What neighborhood/part of town do you live in? Please fill in your response.
Answered: 307
Skipped: 132
#
RESPONSES
DATE
1 Lynnbrooke
10/29/2019 5:55 PM
2 Civic Arts Plaza District
10/29/2019 4:55 PM
3 dos vientos
10/29/2019 4:20 PM
4 Oakbrook Village
10/29/2019 1:09 PM
5 North Ranch
10/29/2019 1:01 PM
6 village glen
10/29/2019 11:28 AM
7 Near intersection of Moorpark and Janss
10/29/2019 11:27 AM
8 Old Town
10/29/2019 11:00 AM
9 Work off of Hillcrest by
post office
10/29/2019 10:14 AM
10 Near Cal Lutheran Univ
10/29/2019 8:25 AM
11 Ridgecrest Tract - adjacent to CLU North Campus
10/29/2019 7:48 AM
12 Lynn Ranch
10/29/2019 7:36 AM
13 South Moorpark rd
10/29/2019 7:33 AM
14 Dos Vientos
10/28/2019 11:45 PM
15 Eichler Track
10/28/2019 10:25 PM
16 Dos Vientos
10/28/2019 10:21 PM
17 Conejo
10/28/2019 9:10 PM
18 Casa Conejo
10/28/2019 9:09 PM
19 Village Homes
10/28/2019 7:44 PM
20 Waverly Heights
10/28/2019 7:17 PM
21 California Lutheran University
10/28/2019 7:14 PM
22 Ranch mobile homes
10/28/2019 5:37 PM
23 Greenridge Development, near CLU
10/28/2019 3:47 PM
24 Newbury Park
10/28/2019 3:14 PM
25 Newbury Park, by the Stagecoach Inn
10/28/2019 2:48 PM
26 Oakbrook Village
10/28/2019 1:07 PM
27 Near CLU
10/28/2019 11:54 AM
28 North Ranch
10/28/2019 11:11 AM
29 Braemar Gardens
10/28/2019 11:10 AM
30 Greenridge
10/28/2019 10:56 AM
31 Hampshire area
10/28/2019 10:32 AM
32 lang ranch
10/28/2019 9:52 AM
33 Gainsborough
10/28/2019 9:14 AM
34 Summerfield
10/28/2019 8:32 AM
3 / 70
TO2045 Community Survey #1
35 Newbury Park
10/28/2019 8:18 AM
36 Lang Ranch
10/28/2019 7:59 AM
37 Newbury Park
10/28/2019 7:37 AM
38 Lang ranch
10/28/2019 7:27 AM
39 Lang Ranch
10/28/2019 7:12 AM
40 Kelly Ranch
10/28/2019 7:07 AM
41 North Ranch
10/28/2019 2:53 AM
42 By Janss library
10/27/2019 11:21 PM
43 Off Lynn and Gainsborough
10/27/2019 9:35 PM
44 Near CLU
10/27/2019 8:43 PM
45 Sunset Hills
10/27/2019 7:59 PM
46 Conejo Vista
10/27/2019 6:56 PM
47 Waverly Heights
10/27/2019 6:34 PM
48 Waverly Heights
10/27/2019 6:23 PM
49 Wildwood Park area
10/27/2019 5:24 PM
50 Newbury Park/Casa Conejo
10/27/2019 3:20 PM
51 Westlake Hills
10/27/2019 2:41 PM
52 Newbury park
10/27/2019 1:12 PM
53 Dos Vientos
10/27/2019 11:38 AM
54 Rancho Conejo
10/27/2019 10:35 AM
55 Wildwood
10/27/2019 9:43 AM
56 Wildwood
10/27/2019 9:00 AM
57 Westlake Village
10/27/2019 6:42 AM
58 Wildflower
10/26/2019 11:58 PM
59 Waverly Heights
10/26/2019 10:02 PM
60 wildwood
10/26/2019 8:28 PM
61 Sunset hills
10/26/2019 8:18 PM
62 Sunset Hills
10/26/2019 7:07 PM
63 Gainsborough/Windsor
10/26/2019 6:42 PM
64 Terra tract in north TO
10/26/2019 5:50 PM
65 Lynn Ranch
10/26/2019 5:26 PM
66 Rancho Conejo Village
10/26/2019 4:56 PM
67 Oak park
10/26/2019 2:56 PM
68 Lang Ranch
10/26/2019 2:17 PM
69 Shadow Oaks
10/26/2019 1:11 PM
70 Newbury park
10/26/2019 12:44 PM
71 Newbury Park
10/26/2019 12:25 PM
72 Lynnbrooke
10/26/2019 10:38 AM
73 Newbury Park/Hickory Park area
10/26/2019 8:53 AM
74 Old Meadows
10/26/2019 8:30 AM
75 lang ranch
10/26/2019 7:48 AM
4 / 70
TO2045 Community Survey #1
76 Mont Clef
10/26/2019 7:44 AM
77 Old meadows
10/26/2019 7:22 AM
78 Westlake Hills
10/26/2019 7:16 AM
79 Los Robles Estates
10/26/2019 5:37 AM
80 twenty oaks
10/26/2019 1:05 AM
81 Rancho Conejo
10/25/2019 10:52 PM
82 Conejo Oaks
10/25/2019 10:12 PM
83 Shadow Oaks
10/25/2019 10:06 PM
84 Camelot condos
10/25/2019 8:25 PM
85 Westlake Hills
10/25/2019 7:58 PM
86 Lang Ranch
10/25/2019 7:56 PM
87 Los Feliz Drive 250
10/25/2019 7:30 PM
88 Sunset Hills
10/25/2019 7:07 PM
89 Right off Thousand Oaks Blvd bear The Lakes
10/25/2019 6:44 PM
90 Radcliffe/Pederson
10/25/2019 6:33 PM
91 91362
10/25/2019 6:31 PM
92 Lang
10/25/2019 6:13 PM
93 Village homes
10/25/2019 6:06 PM
94 Westlake Village near Triunfo Park
10/25/2019 5:47 PM
95 Westlake Hills
10/25/2019 5:47 PM
96 Westlake Village
10/25/2019 5:25 PM
97 Newbury Park
10/25/2019 5:23 PM
98 Valley High and La Granada
10/25/2019 5:22 PM
99 central
10/25/2019 5:20 PM
100
Flores and Erbs
10/25/2019 5:10 PM
101
Shadow Oaks
10/25/2019 5:10 PM
102
Newbury Park
10/25/2019 5:09 PM
103
Thousand Oaks
10/25/2019 5:06 PM
104
Newbury Park
10/25/2019 4:57 PM
105
Near CLU
10/25/2019 4:35 PM
106
Moorpark/Janss
10/25/2019 4:12 PM
107
Lang Ranch/Meadowwood
10/25/2019 4:09 PM
108
Westlake Village
10/25/2019 3:59 PM
109
Newbury park
10/25/2019 3:38 PM
110
old meadows
10/25/2019 3:34 PM
111
Wildwood
10/25/2019 3:34 PM
112
Wendy/Borchard
10/25/2019 3:13 PM
113
Manzanita Lane
10/25/2019 2:56 PM
114
A track of homes built in 1979 in Newbury Park called Suntree 10/25/2019 2:25 PM
115
Newbury Park
10/25/2019 1:54 PM
116
Racquet Club Villas
10/25/2019 1:48 PM
5 / 70
TO2045 Community Survey #1
117
Wildwood
10/25/2019 12:47 PM
118
Oak Crest
10/25/2019 11:59 AM
119
Shadow Oaks
10/25/2019 11:27 AM
120
Conejo Oaks
10/24/2019 11:28 PM
121
North Ranch
10/24/2019 8:22 PM
122
Sunset Hills
10/24/2019 8:06 PM
123
near Cal Lutheran
10/24/2019 4:01 PM
124
Old Meadows
10/24/2019 3:48 PM
125
Lang Ranch
10/24/2019 3:18 PM
126
Conejo Oaks
10/24/2019 2:46 PM
127
Hillcrest & Westlake Blvd.
10/24/2019 2:24 PM
128
North Ranch
10/23/2019 7:06 PM
129
westlake village
10/23/2019 6:56 PM
130
N/A
10/23/2019 4:09 PM
131
Conejo
10/23/2019 3:57 PM
132
Conejo oaks
10/23/2019 3:35 PM
133
Wildwood Neighborhood
10/23/2019 3:20 PM
134
Newbury Park, Ventu Park
10/23/2019 3:15 PM
135
Lynn Oaks
10/23/2019 2:42 PM
136
Wildwood
10/22/2019 11:38 PM
137
Stoneybrook
10/22/2019 6:19 PM
138
Erbes & Arboles
Brock Homes
10/22/2019 11:12 AM
139
Conejo Oaks
10/21/2019 11:21 PM
140
Old Town
10/21/2019 8:44 PM
141
College
10/21/2019 8:28 PM
142
country homes off 23 fwy
10/21/2019 8:40 AM
143
Newbury Park
10/20/2019 5:48 PM
144
Wildwood
10/20/2019 2:38 PM
145
Copperwood tract
10/18/2019 3:06 PM
146
Newbury Park
10/18/2019 2:32 PM
147
Downtown TO - off the TO blvd by the Lakes
10/18/2019 11:46 AM
148
Spring Meadow Park area
10/17/2019 12:44 PM
149
Newbury Park
10/17/2019 10:45 AM
150
Dos Vientos
10/17/2019 10:45 AM
151
Upper North Ranch
10/17/2019 8:04 AM
152
Lang Ranch area - near Erbes & Arboles intersection
10/16/2019 2:19 PM
153
Oakbrook
10/16/2019 11:57 AM
154
Dogwood Circle
10/16/2019 11:53 AM
155
Dos Vientos
10/16/2019 11:07 AM
156
hampshire
10/16/2019 9:00 AM
157
Newbury Park
10/16/2019 6:16 AM
6 / 70
TO2045 Community Survey #1
158
Hampshire / The Groves
10/15/2019 11:40 PM
159
Newbury Park
10/15/2019 10:26 PM
160
Newbury Park
10/15/2019 9:42 PM
161
Oaknoll condominiums
10/15/2019 6:42 PM
162
Lang Ranch Area
10/15/2019 3:59 PM
163
Lynnmere
10/15/2019 3:10 PM
164
Conejo Oaks
10/15/2019 2:30 PM
165
WILDWOOD
10/15/2019 1:00 PM
166
Lynn and Janss area
10/15/2019 12:29 PM
167
Newbury park
10/15/2019 11:26 AM
168
Westlake Village
10/15/2019 11:18 AM
169
Westlake Village
10/15/2019 10:52 AM
170
Wildwood
10/15/2019 10:37 AM
171
Olsen/Erbes
10/15/2019 9:52 AM
172
Copperwood
10/15/2019 9:45 AM
173
Los Robles Road (Hampshire/TO Blvd nearest insection)
10/15/2019 9:15 AM
174
College Park
10/15/2019 9:00 AM
175
Old Meadows
10/15/2019 9:00 AM
176
Lang Ranch
10/15/2019 8:43 AM
177
Lynn Estates
10/15/2019 8:28 AM
178
Between Hillcrest and Thousand Oaks Boulevard near Hodencamp 10/15/2019 8:12 AM
179
College Park
10/15/2019 8:07 AM
180
Shadow Oaks
10/14/2019 11:34 PM
181
Wildwood
10/14/2019 10:48 PM
182
Newbury Park
10/14/2019 10:15 PM
183
Unincorporated
10/14/2019 10:08 PM
184
Westlake Village
10/14/2019 9:06 PM
185
Dos Vientos
10/14/2019 9:01 PM
186
Newbury Park
10/14/2019 8:50 PM
187
Newbury park
10/14/2019 8:16 PM
188
Newbury Park
10/14/2019 8:06 PM
189
Wildwood
10/14/2019 5:56 PM
190
Ventu Park/TO
10/14/2019 5:31 PM
191
Hillcrest/Rancho
10/14/2019 5:24 PM
192
Lang Ranch
10/14/2019 4:52 PM
193
Newbury Park
10/14/2019 3:55 PM
194
Oakbrook Highlands
10/14/2019 3:41 PM
195
Newbury Park
10/14/2019 3:29 PM
196
Avenida de los aeboles
10/14/2019 3:04 PM
197
Newbury Park
10/14/2019 2:42 PM
198
Waverly Heights
10/14/2019 2:29 PM
7 / 70
TO2045 Community Survey #1
199
TO Blvd
10/14/2019 2:09 PM
200
Gainsborough Rd
10/14/2019 1:09 PM
201
Hillcrest and Erbes
10/14/2019 1:03 PM
202
Waverly Heights
10/14/2019 12:07 PM
203
Greenridge
10/14/2019 10:34 AM
204
Newbury Park
10/14/2019 10:16 AM
205
Newbury Park
10/14/2019 10:05 AM
206
Dos Vientos
10/14/2019 9:43 AM
207
Sunset Hills
10/14/2019 9:35 AM
208
Oakbrook extension, Tamara tract
10/14/2019 8:51 AM
209
On calle Tulipan
10/14/2019 8:27 AM
210
Sunset hills
10/14/2019 8:12 AM
211
Houston Drive
10/14/2019 7:38 AM
212
Newbury Park
10/13/2019 2:30 PM
213
Old Meadows
10/13/2019 11:18 AM
214
Rancho Conejo Village, Newbury Park
10/12/2019 10:03 PM
215
Westlake Hills
10/12/2019 3:03 PM
216
Central north
10/12/2019 2:58 PM
217
Newbury Park
10/12/2019 12:41 PM
218
Eichler tract near Madrona Elementary
10/12/2019 10:34 AM
219
de las Flores & Erbes Rd
10/12/2019 9:43 AM
220
Newbury Park
10/12/2019 8:02 AM
221
Conejo oaks
10/11/2019 5:54 PM
222
Sunset hills
10/11/2019 12:02 PM
223
Lang Ranch
10/11/2019 11:48 AM
224
North Ranch, Westlake Village
10/10/2019 9:42 PM
225
Eastern side of Thousand Oaks
10/10/2019 7:46 PM
226
oak park
10/10/2019 12:55 PM
227
Westlake Hills
10/10/2019 12:49 PM
228
Newbury Park
10/10/2019 12:20 PM
229
Westlake Village
10/10/2019 11:10 AM
230
Oakbrook Townhomes
10/10/2019 11:06 AM
231
Rancho Conejo
10/10/2019 10:51 AM
232
lang ranch
10/10/2019 10:00 AM
233
Conejo Oaks
10/10/2019 9:51 AM
234
Eagle Ridge
10/10/2019 9:26 AM
235
Old Meadows
10/10/2019 8:52 AM
236
North Ranch
10/10/2019 8:24 AM
237
Wildwood
10/10/2019 8:20 AM
238
sherwood
10/10/2019 7:28 AM
239
Village Homes
10/10/2019 7:23 AM
8 / 70
TO2045 Community Survey #1
240
Newbury Park
10/10/2019 7:07 AM
241
Lang ranch
10/10/2019 6:48 AM
242
Fieldstone/Falconridge
10/10/2019 2:58 AM
243
Hampshire and Triunfo Cyn Rd
10/10/2019 12:26 AM
244
Conejo Oaks
10/9/2019 11:13 PM
245
Conejo Hills
10/9/2019 10:53 PM
246
Westlake Village
10/9/2019 9:42 PM
247
Eichler
10/9/2019 9:21 PM
248
Down the street from the library
10/9/2019 9:21 PM
249
Wildwood area
10/9/2019 8:41 PM
250
Clara Vista
10/9/2019 8:06 PM
251
North Ranch
10/9/2019 8:04 PM
252
Newbury Park
10/9/2019 8:01 PM
253
Oakbrook Village
10/9/2019 7:55 PM
254
Upper North Ranch
10/9/2019 7:45 PM
255
Janns and Erbes
10/9/2019 7:41 PM
256
Tortilla Flats (near corner of Arboles and Moorpark Rd.) 10/9/2019 7:40 PM
257
990 Emerson Street
10/9/2019 7:40 PM
258
Newbury Park
10/9/2019 7:39 PM
259
Sunset Hills
10/9/2019 7:38 PM
260
olsen road area clu
10/9/2019 7:35 PM
261
Lynn Ranch
10/9/2019 2:21 PM
262
Newbury Park
10/7/2019 12:40 PM
263
Dawnridge
10/5/2019 6:13 AM
264
newbury park
10/4/2019 10:40 AM
265
sunset hills
10/4/2019 9:19 AM
266
Sunset Hlls
10/3/2019 6:00 PM
267
Hillcrest Terrace Condos
10/3/2019 4:52 PM
268
Shadow Oaks
10/3/2019 3:04 PM
269
East
10/3/2019 1:50 PM
270
Foxmoor
10/3/2019 11:04 AM
271
Wildwood
10/2/2019 2:34 PM
272
Sunset Hills
10/2/2019 2:21 PM
273
North Ranch
10/2/2019 1:15 PM
274
Lynn Road and Gainsboro
10/2/2019 12:49 PM
275
Tuolumne Oaks
10/2/2019 12:47 PM
276
Northwood
10/2/2019 12:43 PM
277
Sunset Hills
10/2/2019 11:32 AM
278
Newbury Park
10/2/2019 10:52 AM
279
Westlake Village
10/2/2019 10:24 AM
280
Central TO (near dmv)
10/2/2019 2:59 AM
9 / 70
TO2045 Community Survey #1
281
Center
10/2/2019 12:14 AM
282
South of TO high school
10/1/2019 8:11 PM
283
Cal Lutheran
10/1/2019 5:14 PM
284
Oak Park
10/1/2019 2:49 PM
285
Foxmoor Hills, Westlake Village
10/1/2019 12:24 PM
286
lang ranch
10/1/2019 11:59 AM
287
The Woodlands
10/1/2019 11:45 AM
288
Newbury Park area
10/1/2019 11:41 AM
289
Newbury Park
10/1/2019 11:40 AM
290
dog park on Flores
10/1/2019 11:23 AM
291
Lynn Ranch area
10/1/2019 10:23 AM
292
Newbury Park
10/1/2019 9:50 AM
293
Kevington
10/1/2019 9:00 AM
294
Old Town
10/1/2019 8:46 AM
295
By Thousand Oaks High School
10/1/2019 8:44 AM
296
Westlake
9/29/2019 1:39 PM
297
Village Homes
9/29/2019 10:42 AM
298
Los Robles neighborhood
9/28/2019 11:02 AM
299
Moorpark
9/28/2019 10:17 AM
300
Thousand Oaks Mall
9/28/2019 10:16 AM
301
Westlake Village part
9/28/2019 6:30 AM
302
Conejo Oaks
9/27/2019 4:47 PM
303
Lang Ranch
9/27/2019 12:28 PM
304
Casa Conejo
9/26/2019 7:21 PM
305
Westlake Village
9/26/2019 6:15 PM
306
Conejo Oaks
9/26/2019 12:37 PM
307
Chanteclair Estates
9/25/2019 8:04 PM
10 / 70
TO2045 Community Survey #1
0.00%
0 21.02%
91 0.00%
0 0.46%
2 35.10%
152
7.62%
33 32.10%
139
0.69%
3 0.23%
1 2.77%
12 Q4
What is your zip code?
Answered: 433
Skipped: 6
TOTAL
433
91319
91320
91358
91359
91360
91361
91362
91377
93012
Other (please
specify)
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
90%
100%
ANSWER CHOICES
RESPONSES
91319
91320
91358
91359
91360
91361
91362
91377
93012
Other (please specify)
11 / 70
TO2045 Community Survey #1
#
OTHER (PLEASE SPECIFY)
DATE
1 93036
10/27/2019 2:40 PM
2 93035
10/26/2019 11:51 AM
3 93063
10/26/2019 9:13 AM
4 93065
10/25/2019 1:37 PM
5 N/A
10/23/2019 4:09 PM
6 93003
10/23/2019 1:24 PM
7 93021
10/19/2019 11:30 AM
8 93036
10/15/2019 5:16 PM
9 91320
10/14/2019 10:08 PM
10 91320
10/14/2019 8:16 PM
11 93066
10/14/2019 4:04 PM
12 93065
9/27/2019 2:27 PM
12 / 70
TO2045 Community Survey #1
Q5
What makes Thousand Oaks unique and special? Describe what you like best about Thousand Oaks.
Answered: 327
Skipped: 112
#
RESPONSES
DATE
1 Strong sense of community; Family orientated.
10/29/2019 8:58 PM
2 Open spaces, relatively low density, easy access to walking trails, semi-rural feel.
Many
neighborhoods have decent sized lots that make you feel less crowded.big issue 10/29/2019 6:20 PM
3 Safe, family-oriented, surrounded by open space. An oasis from the chaos of the valley/ Los Angeles area, but close to everything.
10/29/2019 5:00 PM
4 scenery, weather, people, etc
10/29/2019 4:20 PM
5 semi-rural atmosphere with just enough entertainment, low crime rate 10/29/2019 3:59 PM
6 methow
10/29/2019 2:11 PM
7 Open spaces, beautiful old trees
10/29/2019 1:51 PM
8 We have great parks and schools.
Roads are well maintained.
Not too crowd, but getting more so.
Most people are considerate.
10/29/2019 1:47 PM
9 Small town and safe environment.
Good place to raise a family.
10/29/2019 11:38 AM
10 it used to be a great place to live unfortunately too much development has spoilt it. 10/29/2019 11:29 AM
11 generations of friends and neighbors
10/29/2019 11:05 AM
12 Family friendly. Community organizations engagement (CYBA, CVBB, CVYO, Conejo YMCA, Religious - St. Paschal’s, etc.), city master plan w/ business corridors separated from residences, CRPD INCLUDING SENIOR activities, TOSS, & numerous parks, no crime, fire and safety services, CVUSD, and available performance events at Kavli, Scherr, and other venues.
I love this
city.
10/29/2019 9:00 AM
13 The hills and small community feel in a bigger city
10/29/2019 8:33 AM
14 Open space and the views. Good schools. Diverse neighborhoods. 10/29/2019 8:30 AM
15 open space, great schools
10/29/2019 7:41 AM
16 Open land which is being brutally developed and against resident wishes! 10/29/2019 7:36 AM
17 It’s community and environment.
10/28/2019 11:46 PM
18 The semi rural, small town atmosphere and the preservation of the surrounding hills and open spaces.
10/28/2019 10:33 PM
19 Small town feel. It’s family friendly
10/28/2019 9:44 PM
20 Small town feel with access to unique landscapes
10/28/2019 9:15 PM
21 Family environment, the looks of the mountains and trees and openness of the area and the beautiful well kept parks.
10/28/2019 9:12 PM
22 Not too crowded; nearby hiking trails, bike and walking paths, fresh air; good restaurants and shopping; good employment opportunities; strong public schools; three colleges/universities within easy driving distance
10/28/2019 7:47 PM
23 The greenbelt and trails. World-class public schools. Equestrian heritage and focus, at least in some parts. Proximity to the Valley and LA without embodying the worst of those places. 10/28/2019 7:24 PM
24 Open Space, places to hike, diversity of restaurants, diversity of grocery stores 10/28/2019 7:18 PM
25 Quiet, peaceful, surrounded by nature.
10/28/2019 5:39 PM
26 Open spaces - small town feel
10/28/2019 4:51 PM
13 / 70
TO2045 Community Survey #1
27 open space, excellent schools and CLU, many beautiful parks, cultural opportunities 10/28/2019 3:52 PM
28 open spaces concern for the environment
10/28/2019 3:17 PM
29 Surrounding open space. I grew up in OC when there were still orange groves, it is fantastic that our hills are not covered with homes and condos.
10/28/2019 2:51 PM
30 The open space that is still here.
10/28/2019 1:28 PM
31 Everything!
City has always put community 1st
10/28/2019 12:40 PM
32 Safe, clean, good places to eat, not like San Fernando valley or the rest of california. Less people than the valley.
10/28/2019 11:58 AM
33 less densely populated
10/28/2019 11:57 AM
34 Quiet, open space, clean
10/28/2019 11:53 AM
35 It's great place to live with beautiful surroundings and a low crime rate. 10/28/2019 11:51 AM
36 The open space, low density, slower pace of life, and the parks. 10/28/2019 11:18 AM
37 Best? The close relative proximity to numerous great locations of interest - mountain trails, beaches, parks, schools, Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, etc. 10/28/2019 10:56 AM
38 small town feel, openspace
10/28/2019 9:58 AM
39 It’s thousands of oak trees in town obviously make it unique. What makes it special? I would say it’s proximity to LA, Malibu, beaches, etc. But when you live here you feel the small town suburb vibe which makes it a great place to raise a family. There are great open spaces for hiking and activities with family and friends.
10/28/2019 9:29 AM
40 The small-town feel, abundance of open space and proximity to the opportunities the metro-L.A. area affords.
10/28/2019 9:03 AM
41 Open space, bicycle lanes, and park lands, coupled with safety and great schools make it a great place to slow down and be grateful to raise a family and settle here. 10/28/2019 8:24 AM
42 Small town feel.
Great community.
Open space.
The arts.
The restaurants and shopping.
The
schools.
10/28/2019 8:07 AM
43 Connected police (safe passage), Kiwanis and Rotarians, multi-cultural, open space, not open 24/7
10/28/2019 7:40 AM
44 It’s beautiful and safe, people are mostly friendly.
It has almost everything you need.
The open
spaces are amazing and local parks are wonderful too.
10/28/2019 7:30 AM
45 Safety and security, tranquility , open green spaces, close to urban and rural areas, availability of a diversified services, are some special things
10/28/2019 7:19 AM
46 Open space
10/28/2019 7:12 AM
47 Small town feel where everyone knows their neighbors. 10/27/2019 11:28 PM
48 Good air quality, good schools, naturally pretty, safe. 10/27/2019 9:40 PM
49 Open Space,
lots of parks
10/27/2019 8:35 PM
50 Open spaces, small town charm, plenty of parks for families. 10/27/2019 8:00 PM
51 Open space
10/27/2019 6:58 PM
52 Low density housing, easy access to open space, excellent school system, easy access to equestrian events, perimeter of open space
10/27/2019 6:28 PM
53 The open space!
Places to hike & walk.
10/27/2019 5:26 PM
54 Family atmosphere--parks, libraries, activities.
10/27/2019 3:30 PM
55 Schools, Community, Parks, Library
10/27/2019 2:53 PM
56 The amount of Tesla’s? I only work here so It’s hard to assess what makes the city special. I’ve heard there’s a low crime rate.
10/27/2019 2:48 PM
57 The city is starting to feel a little safer for queer youth 10/27/2019 1:18 PM
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TO2045 Community Survey #1
58 The natural beauty! The protected open space, Wildwood Mesa, and of the various parks and the fact that no homes or other buildings are built on the hill tops. The fact that we are not like the San Fernando Valley!!!!
10/27/2019 12:35 PM
59 mom and pop shops and feel
not major city
open spaces
10/27/2019 11:41 AM
60 It’s friendly and safe, and it has a lot of potential for growth. Our performing arts centre is also really impressive for a city our size.
10/27/2019 10:49 AM
61 The hill/mountain views
Hiking/outdoor activities
Suburban feel
Primary services (shopping,
medical, commercial, dining, etc) are all readily available in town 10/27/2019 10:04 AM
62 Access to open space.
Friendly and well maintained community, with limited congestion.
Great
schools.
10/27/2019 9:29 AM
63 The open space and lack of large buildings, apratments buildings and traffic conjestion 10/27/2019 6:49 AM
64 Open space, small town feel yet becoming more diverse. 10/26/2019 10:12 PM
65 open spaces, hiking trails, quiet neighborhood, convenience of stores, well planned community, park & rec, adult school activities, senior center, friendliness of residents, library and its programs.
CLU programs, and its pool! Public pool too.
10/26/2019 8:41 PM
66 Small, local business mixed with city necessities.
10/26/2019 8:20 PM
67 Less traffic, availability of parking, clean air, Oak trees, equestrian neighborhoods, semi rural atmosphere, small town feeling, multi-use trails, ridge-line views, buildings are set back from the street, limit to 2 story buildings(although this seems to be in danger), Parks and Recreation department (classes and events offered), Adult School-one of the last in the state & beautiful parks.
10/26/2019 6:56 PM
68 Having grown up here, TO’s slow growth has allowed the city to remain idyllic and avoid the crowdedness of neighboring cities. The natural boundaries act as protector, mostly. The low lying buildings work with the natural landscape. The mix or suburban and outdoor space is balanced. (I hope this continues despite the multi level buildings in and near the blvd) 10/26/2019 6:01 PM
69 Outdoor Amenities, Educational Opportunities k-12 and Higher. Security, community atmosphere. 10/26/2019 5:44 PM
70 Quiet. Peaceful. Low crime.
10/26/2019 4:59 PM
71 Peaceful community which a vast array of places to eat, outdoor activities and shopping. I prefer to never go to the San Fernando valley if I can help it.
It's great to have most of what I need at my
fingertips in town.
10/26/2019 3:32 PM
72 Open space
10/26/2019 3:20 PM
73 Open space. No high rises or heavy congestion. Community events. Our proximity to the ocean, mountains, and larger cities.
10/26/2019 2:56 PM
74 Open space - lack of congestion and traffic, parks, trails, good schools 10/26/2019 2:27 PM
75 The schools are great. We really enjoy the fact that it’s not over developed and there’s lots of open space. It’s nice to be able to sleep with a window open on occasion because it’s so quiet at night.
Love the unique businesses, the ease to get around, the streets are in great shape with great drainage during heavy rains. Love the fact that it’s generally safe and not crammed together like Los Angeles (where we used to live). We moved here for the public schools which have been amazing for our children but ended up really liking everything else about Thousand Oaks. We also like the hiking trails and public parks, wide streets... yep we really like it the way it is right now I guess, would hate to see it grow if it doesn’t need to, less is more, the small town feel keeps us here.
10/26/2019 2:25 PM
76 Open space and rural feel
10/26/2019 1:25 PM
77 I feel safe living here
10/26/2019 1:13 PM
78 Small town environment
10/26/2019 12:49 PM
79 Rural and safe
10/26/2019 11:10 AM
80 The community is diverse with a neighborly feel.
10/26/2019 9:16 AM
81 Parks and other open space
10/26/2019 8:32 AM
82 People
10/26/2019 8:15 AM
15 / 70
TO2045 Community Survey #1
83 Open Space, low traffic congestion,
conservative government, low spending,
well planned
neighborhoods, good shopping , good property values, slow growth 10/26/2019 8:03 AM
84 Open space, beautiful parks, ridge tops with no buildings, no high rise buildings, small town
atmosphere great people and great schools.
Don’t ruin it with more development.
there is getting to
be too many cars already
10/26/2019 7:26 AM
85 The small community feel without too much urbanization. 10/26/2019 7:18 AM
86 The family focused, small community feeling.
10/26/2019 6:17 AM
87 Rural atmosphere Convenience to shops, markets, and medical care 10/26/2019 5:40 AM
88 beauty, safety
10/26/2019 1:08 AM
89 Open space, great schools
10/25/2019 10:53 PM
90 the amount of space we have between other cities and between our houses. 10/25/2019 10:14 PM
91 Wonderful Library, great schools, parks and outdoor activities too.
Broad appeal for diverse
community.
10/25/2019 10:14 PM
92 Auto Mall and Amgen
10/25/2019 9:40 PM
93 Horse Trails, conejo open space wildwood park, la jolla park, los robles trails 10/25/2019 8:30 PM
94 Natural location in the Santa Monica Mountains and the Conejo Valley, with hilltop restrictions on building new structures
10/25/2019 8:09 PM
95 Parks, closeness to open space
the people
10/25/2019 8:06 PM
96 Oak Trees. Outdoor open space. Parks. Great schools and library. Good shopping. 10/25/2019 8:00 PM
97 Open space Safety/Low crime Close/supportive community 10/25/2019 7:58 PM
98 It’s not full of high rises and traffic.
10/25/2019 7:43 PM
99 The atmosphere when people come together in a crisis or for someone in need. It feels like a city from a Hallmark movie.
10/25/2019 7:40 PM
100
It’s beauty and high quality.
10/25/2019 7:10 PM
101
Multi use trails, views of the hills, nature, oak trees. Not much traffic, or smog, easy parking. It’s not crowded with people, cars and
tall buildings. It doesn’t feel like a city it’s more like a smaller town. There are neighborhoods with large yards, fruit trees and horses! The schools are wonderful.
I’m happy to live in a town that has not been over developed and still has its history and own character.
10/25/2019 6:54 PM
102
Safe small town feel. Beautiful hills and parks. Increasing amount of entertainment in the way of new kinds of bars and restaurants.
10/25/2019 6:50 PM
103
Small-town feel; open space;
we value our history.
City feels a sense of itself as a community.
10/25/2019 6:36 PM
104
Not congested, safe, good schools, gets ocean breezes
10/25/2019 6:08 PM
105
Sense of community. I hope it can still feel small even if we add 20,000 people. 10/25/2019 5:53 PM
106
The open space.
10/25/2019 5:38 PM
107
I love the open space, the less crowded feel, the safety, good schools and beauty. 10/25/2019 5:26 PM
108
Beauty of open space and landscaping in the developed areas. Quality of schools 10/25/2019 5:25 PM
109
Conejo Park and Recreation District: parks, programs and facilities.
AYSO soccer fields.
Trails for
hiking.
SAFE place to live.
St. Paschal Balyon church, parish and school.
La Reina.
10/25/2019 5:25 PM
110
Quieter community, my company is based here.
10/25/2019 5:17 PM
111
The open space and schools
10/25/2019 5:10 PM
112
Open space, trails, spacious, hometown feel
10/25/2019 4:58 PM
113
The climate and the beauty of the geologic features, the many open spaces, our great community parks with all of the activities they offer for all ages, and the jewel; the Santa Monica Mountains National Park.
The appreciation and support for the Arts and our great Libraries! 10/25/2019 4:38 PM
114
Oak trees and open space.
Love seeing the surrounding hills.
10/25/2019 4:37 PM
16 / 70
TO2045 Community Survey #1
115
The rolling hills and small town feel that make you feel Completely separate from the city 40 miles away
10/25/2019 4:12 PM
116
Born in 1972 here...raised and still live here.
It's safe, beautiful and a wonderful community.
It's
grown WAY too much in the past few years, we must protect our open space and consider traffic issues, which are already terrible.
I love my community and I want to preserve it's beauty for my son and his future here.
10/25/2019 4:07 PM
117
Little traffic, availability of parking, clean air, Oak trees, equestrian neighborhoods, semi rural atmosphere, small town feeling, multi-use trails, ridge-line views, buildings are set back from the street, limit to 2 story buildings(although this seems to be in danger) 10/25/2019 4:04 PM
118
Clean
Safe Children activities
10/25/2019 3:52 PM
119
The community atmosphere, the outdoor activities (hiking, biking, crpd sports) 10/25/2019 3:41 PM
120
Long-time residents, pride of ownership/residency, small-town feel, natural beauty/open space 10/25/2019 3:41 PM
121
Strong family community. Clean, safe city.
10/25/2019 3:39 PM
122
natural beauty close to urban culture
10/25/2019 3:35 PM
123
All the open space, low crime, good schools and no billboards 10/25/2019 3:33 PM
124
Open ridge lines. Buildings are set back from the streets and height of most buildings kept at two stories. Open space, and clean air.
10/25/2019 3:05 PM
125
It’s a ‘Boutique’ City, small family run businesses that embrace the community 10/25/2019 2:56 PM
126
I love the weather and the location.
It's wonderful to live within driving distance to the world-class museums in Los Angeles, to the beaches and the mountains. 10/25/2019 1:23 PM
127
Suburb with lots of open space, hiking, good local spots to go for food, entertainment but could use more
10/25/2019 12:50 PM
128
I love the Oak Trees---I also love how the shopping areas are secondary to the natural beauty-you can drive by costco and not even see it-
10/25/2019 12:03 PM
129
Laws and ordinances that attempt to preserve the very things we think make TO special, but are disappearing.
10/25/2019 11:32 AM
130
I moved here to get away from the San Fernando Valley Congestion. And chose to live on the only dirt street in Thousand Oaks. The open spaces, country feel make this special. 10/24/2019 11:38 PM
131
Open space, great schools, large employers, quality of life 10/24/2019 8:31 PM
132
The small town, semi rural feel of the area with the conveniences of of the city. Love the oaks and other trees and all of the accessible open space.
10/24/2019 5:36 PM
133
Well kept public areas, parks & recreation, convenient shopping, malls, good restaurants, Kiwanis, Rotary, Sr Concerns, good police & fire depts, good schools, CAP 10/24/2019 4:23 PM
134
It is a small town feel removed from busy city life.
It has wonderful schools and lots of wonderful
open space.
10/24/2019 3:57 PM
135
Its not LA..
Growth has been somewhat controlled and the city is mostly built out. 10/24/2019 3:42 PM
136
Rural, low density, equestrian neighborhoods, open space, and parks. 10/24/2019 3:40 PM
137
Safety, Education, Slower Pace of Life
10/24/2019 3:18 PM
138
We love the outdoor activities, the schools, and the communities and neighborhoods. 10/24/2019 2:28 PM
139
Lots of open space and emphasis on nature
10/24/2019 10:28 AM
140
It is a safe community with a lot of open space.
10/23/2019 3:59 PM
141
Friendly community, with strong family values.
Good schools and one of the safest cities in the
U.S.
The weather is fantastic and it is beautifully set in the Conejo Valley.
Easy to get to the beach,
LA, and heading up north, along the coast.
Cost of living is much more reasonable than most
California suburbs.
10/23/2019 3:24 PM
142
Easy access to LA & beach communities without the daily hubub, and easy access to outdoor areas.
10/23/2019 3:18 PM
143
Location and Community Feel
10/23/2019 3:10 PM
17 / 70
TO2045 Community Survey #1
144
Open space, safety and educational opportunities
10/23/2019 2:53 PM
145
I enjoy the open areas, as well as my experience growing up in the public schools. 10/23/2019 1:29 PM
146
Clean air, not much traffic, beautiful oak trees, trails, horses, parks, ridge-line views, low profile buildings, small town feeling, western history, easy free parking, multi-use trails that connect to neighborhoods
10/23/2019 11:53 AM
147
Sense of community - including lots of free or low-cost events, OPEN SPACE and protected view
sheds, our Native Oak Trees used as street and landscape trees in public areas, Small town -
semi-rural atmosphere, excellent schools,
10/23/2019 12:17 AM
148
Open space, slow growth, good people
10/22/2019 11:39 PM
149
Trees!
Shade!
Sustainable energy choice!
A better air than SF Valley!
Dial a ride!
Beautiful Valley
Oaks.
10/22/2019 11:21 PM
150
My family moved to Thousand Oaks in 1980. It was such a great place to grow up.
The Mountains
and open areas are a child's dream.
10/22/2019 7:17 PM
151
its ever decreasing semi-rural status
10/22/2019 1:11 PM
152
Lots of community activities, open space and places to walk/hike 10/22/2019 11:15 AM
153
Community involvement, open spaces and rural vistas, oak trees, low profile buildings 10/21/2019 11:52 PM
154
Rural atmosphere and safety.
10/21/2019 9:01 PM
155
It is not L.A.
10/21/2019 8:30 PM
156
Small town feel,
open spaces,
very few large buildings on the Blvd, Oak trees,
10/21/2019 8:09 PM
157
little traffic, availability of parking, clean air, Oak trees, equestrian neighborhoods, semi rural atmosphere, small town feeling, multi use trails, ridge-line views 10/21/2019 7:24 PM
158
open spaces, hiking and community programs
10/21/2019 8:48 AM
159
Beautiful open spaces, safe home, great schools
10/20/2019 7:30 AM
160
Social activity opportunities; Goebel Center acitivities; adult ed; wonderful TO Library with adjacent Conejo Creek Park
10/19/2019 1:48 PM
161
Safe.
10/19/2019 11:33 AM
162
Family and community come first.
10/18/2019 2:40 PM
163
I like that we have easy access to everything, and we never have to worried about parking space.
We have a lot of what the City has to offer with space, and calmness. The mixed of generations from older to newbies, entrepeneurs that rejunavise the town. I love TO! <3 10/18/2019 12:03 PM
164
The Open Space and Small Town Feel
10/17/2019 4:53 PM
165
So many parks for my daughter to play Conejo Valley Days Yarrow YMCA 10/17/2019 4:46 PM
166
A balanced mix of wild, open space and suburbia/urban core. It's like the valley, but not gross and sad.
10/17/2019 12:46 PM
167
Open space, friendliness.
10/17/2019 11:03 AM
168
It's far enough away but close enough to get to other places which have things to do. Relatively safe and quiet.
10/17/2019 10:56 AM
169
Small town feel, open space, friendly community atmosphere. 10/17/2019 8:14 AM
170
schools, arts and culture opportunities (both to attend and to participate in), presence of university 10/16/2019 2:24 PM
171
Family Friendly, good school, good public amenities,
10/16/2019 1:49 PM
172
Quiet, not too crowded or too much traffic. Very low crime and good police. Lots of sky visible. The City is well-managed. Accent on landscaping and nature preservation. Controlled growth laws.
Clean streets.
10/16/2019 12:14 PM
173
Safety, alot of green trees which is less pollution, good restaurants, events for kids 10/16/2019 12:01 PM
174
open space, no billboards, early closing hours, low crime, no traffic, less stop lights 10/16/2019 9:04 AM
18 / 70
TO2045 Community Survey #1
175
The commitment to preserving the open spaces and the oak trees. The hillside ordinance. The fact that it still feels like it's own "town" in the midst of an overpopulated southern California. 10/16/2019 4:22 AM
176
The beautiful trees and open spaces, community and schools. 10/16/2019 12:05 AM
177
1. Sense of community 3. Peaceful and safe 4. Public areas/green space 10/15/2019 10:30 PM
178
Small town feel.
Safety Planned community
10/15/2019 9:45 PM
179
Safe, generally speaking. Mostly nice, caring people.
10/15/2019 6:47 PM
180
Location, topography, geography
10/15/2019 5:19 PM
181
Great community programs, great schools, beautiful open space, safe comfortable environment. 10/15/2019 3:39 PM
182
Smaller town feel, safety, open space.
10/15/2019 3:27 PM
183
low crime rate, good school district, quiet neighborhoods 10/15/2019 1:58 PM
184
Open Space , Culture , community spirit & awareness Business , Parks & Recreation 10/15/2019 1:08 PM
185
Safe. Great place to raise a family.
Shopping-oaks mall etc
10/15/2019 12:40 PM
186
Nothing anymore!
I have lived here all of my life.
60 years.
I would never live here by choice
anymore.
The quaint small town atmosphere is gone.
10/15/2019 11:41 AM
187
Great place to raise a family, K-12 Education, work and enjoy the open spaces for hiking, golf, and enjoyment of community parks.
10/15/2019 11:13 AM
188
The nature and open space, it's a place to settle down and relax 10/15/2019 9:57 AM
189
Low crime and still maintains a small-town feel for the most part. 10/15/2019 9:22 AM
190
Neat, clean, safe,
choice of shopping, good schools, major triage center, close to ocean, mountains and other forms of entertainment.
10/15/2019 9:02 AM
191
Small town world with the advantages of a big city
10/15/2019 9:01 AM
192
comfortable, less-crowded than big cities, and Orange County, the weather, more friendly than L.A., access to most necessary facilities
10/15/2019 8:46 AM
193
The best part of living in Thousand Oaks is the feeling of safety and the ease of access to almost anything one could want.
10/15/2019 8:22 AM
194
The small town atmosphere, how pretty it is, the good access to larger venues (like Los Angeles), the wonderful weather, excellent services, safety, and low crime. 10/15/2019 8:18 AM
195
I like that there is very little traffic that I have the freedom to drive around without waiting in line like in West Hollywood.
I like that it is quite without a lot of night life. The people are polite and friendly.
I feel safe.
10/15/2019 8:08 AM
196
Good mix of neighborhoods, outdoors, and space
10/15/2019 6:14 AM
197
Set among rolling hills, parks and proximity to the Santa Monica Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. 10/15/2019 5:50 AM
198
It's a beautiful well balanced hometown community of good people. 10/14/2019 11:56 PM
199
I like the big small town vibe.
10/14/2019 11:23 PM
200
Clean
10/14/2019 10:33 PM
201
The sense of community
10/14/2019 10:20 PM
202
Pace, family oriented, quiet, safe.
10/14/2019 10:11 PM
203
A commitment to suburban character and the preservation of open space/rural areas. 10/14/2019 9:10 PM
204
Weather, the Oaks, nice people, less transients, drugs, filth, crime, theft. 10/14/2019 9:08 PM
205
Quaintness, community, beauty, opalence
10/14/2019 9:02 PM
206
I love that it has a small town feel with all the amenities, like stores and movie theaters nearby. I love the big parks that are safe for my kids to enjoy, as well as the trails all around. 10/14/2019 8:52 PM
207
The calmness that there are big business only in certain areas and they are mostly held separate from residential areas, unless the residential is apartments. Also that structures are not allowed to be too tall.
10/14/2019 8:15 PM
19 / 70
TO2045 Community Survey #1
208
The trails
10/14/2019 7:45 PM
209
It a good place to raise a family.
10/14/2019 6:02 PM
210
We live in a comfortable and safe bubble.
10/14/2019 5:39 PM
211
City beautification awareness. Uncrowded. Controlled growth. Strict codes. Mandated Nature spaces. Humans answering phones at City Hall. Underground utilities. Nice Library, Senior and Teen Centers. No skyscrapers. Low crime and low homelessness population. Good police and Fire protection. Free parking. Clean streets. Top schools. 10/14/2019 5:12 PM
212
Family oriented, a loving community, safe, well maintained, plenty activities, so many parks, trails, and access to neat adventures whether it's the beach, museums in L.A. or traveling north to camp by a lake. It is my home and I never want to leave.
10/14/2019 3:36 PM
213
Proximity to the beach, mountains, hiking and biking trails.
Weather
10/14/2019 2:50 PM
214
Open space, parks, and low crime.
10/14/2019 2:34 PM
215
Beautiful landscape, adjacent to the Santa Monica mountains.
Amazing weather.
Great cycling
and mountain biking.
10/14/2019 2:14 PM
216
Small town atmosphere, community, open spaces, great city services. 10/14/2019 1:24 PM
217
Open Space, Great Parks, and hiking trails, and not overcrowded. 10/14/2019 1:06 PM
218
Open space and trees
10/14/2019 1:05 PM
219
I like the open space, hiking and parks
10/14/2019 12:10 PM
220
Low crime, good schools, ring of open space, traditional community values 10/14/2019 10:38 AM
221
Convenience to stores, restaurants and medical
10/14/2019 10:26 AM
222
Small town
10/14/2019 10:07 AM
223
Safe, clean, and beautifully maintained city.
By far the best place to raise a family and retire.
10/14/2019 9:48 AM
224
The safe rural and open looking environment; with no high rising buildings, good schools, low crime and nice views from around the city where you typically just see trees and hills. 10/14/2019 9:37 AM
225
Low-rise architecture, restricted development, strict code compliance, no hilltop building,
great
library, excellent police, low noise, no billboards, no parking meters, commercial businesses kept to certain streets, good shopping
10/14/2019 9:09 AM
226
It is not Not a sprawling city.
It is not a los angels of San Francisco. It had resisted being such by not allowing vagrants, homeless and criminals to infest our city.
It upholds the laws of this country
with pride.
10/14/2019 8:37 AM
227
The beautiful surroundings, and the parks.
10/14/2019 8:33 AM
228
Sadly, less and less with passing years. The unique qualities of T.O. Are fading as development, crowding and traffic gets worse
10/14/2019 8:19 AM
229
Open space
10/13/2019 3:03 PM
230
It is not the SF Valley no 3 and 4 story buildings blocking our view. Great open space to hike with my dogs.
10/13/2019 11:22 AM
231
Open space, trees, good schools
10/12/2019 10:04 PM
232
Excellent schools, plenty of Open Space, excellent parks and safety. 10/12/2019 3:06 PM
233
Educated, progressive leaders and decisions that have provided Civic Arts Plaza, CRPD, senior services, excellent non-profit organizations that meet a variety of interests and needs, nearness to LA for big city options.
10/12/2019 3:05 PM
234
Open space, well maintained city
10/12/2019 12:43 PM
235
Open space trails/parks and Arts culture
10/12/2019 10:44 AM
236
The relaxed suburban atmosphere achieved by density and zoning restrictions probably going to be outlawed by radical state gov't
led by Newsom.
10/12/2019 9:52 AM
237
Open spaces, less peopls
10/12/2019 8:09 AM
20 / 70
TO2045 Community Survey #1
238
The beautiful appeal of the natural landscape and foliage. The nice looking buildings and shopping centers. In general an appealing place to live and be in. We enjoy the community of people and the relatively low crime and good school system.
10/11/2019 6:00 PM
239
Open space
10/11/2019 12:03 PM
240
Small town feel, open space, low traffic, easy parking, no billboards, safe 10/11/2019 11:50 AM
241
quality of life, open space, family friendly, safe
10/11/2019 10:28 AM
242
Family-friendly and city-suburban vibe; all walks of life and socio-economic backgrounds live here; the hidden gem aspect
10/10/2019 10:47 PM
243
Feels like a small town. Everything I need is within five miles of home. 10/10/2019 7:55 PM
244
no traffic, easy parking, open space, no graffiti, clean streets, picturesque setting surrounded by hills
10/10/2019 2:53 PM
245
Great location, close to PCH, great mountain views, and easy beach access. 10/10/2019 1:20 PM
246
Quiet
10/10/2019 12:56 PM
247
Family friendly and
its safe
10/10/2019 12:50 PM
248
Clean and quite!
10/10/2019 12:38 PM
249
Lots of culture & arts, PRIDE festival, aesthetic of city 10/10/2019 12:28 PM
250
Financially sound. Balanced budget. Ring of open space. 10/10/2019 11:16 AM
251
Like being in the country and still has that small-town feeling! 10/10/2019 9:27 AM
252
Open space. Commitment to parks, wildlife, and safety. Cleanliness and building for beauty.
Regulating building size and honoring oak trees. Excellent Parks and Recreation programs. Kind people.
10/10/2019 9:23 AM
253
Open space preservation strong sense of community great public schools 10/10/2019 8:25 AM
254
Mountains, weather, hiking trails, proximity to LA
10/10/2019 8:24 AM
255
Proximity to preserved natural accessible open space. Also our well planned development with beautiful landscaping.
10/10/2019 8:08 AM
256
Safe community, good schools, not overpopulated
10/10/2019 8:06 AM
257
nicely set, good schools
10/10/2019 7:47 AM
258
Less traffic, less people, kinder and politer crowd, healthier and cleaner town in Los Angeles areas 10/10/2019 7:44 AM
259
The nature aspect and lots of yummy food.
10/10/2019 6:49 AM
260
The open space feel of the area (lots of nature around), but is close to the city. 10/10/2019 3:13 AM
261
Residential neighborhoods that are largely quiet and well maintained with easy access to convenient shopping and services. I'm walking distance to the TO library, which is a wonderful facility for the community.
10/10/2019 12:00 AM
262
It has a small town feel.
10/9/2019 10:55 PM
263
Our incredible location - close enough to LA to access what the city has to offer, but far enough away to have a small town feel.
Our open space, hiking trails, and parks
are incredible.
Our
schools are great and there is a great sense of community. 10/9/2019 10:12 PM
264
Open space surrounding city.
10/9/2019 10:11 PM
265
Safe, clean , laws are enforced, transient/drug/lawlessness/violence/robbery problems not out of control YET.
10/9/2019 9:51 PM
266
Open Space with maintained trails.
Conejo Botanic Garden. No buildings on ridgetops.
10/9/2019 9:29 PM
267
Open space and beautiful parks and hiking trails.
10/9/2019 8:47 PM
268
The beautiful greenery and mountains and a quiet less congested small town feeling. 10/9/2019 8:25 PM
269
Suburban, safe, great schools and involved community members. Close enough to Los Angeles without the negativity (I.e., incessant traffic, crime) 10/9/2019 8:13 PM
21 / 70
TO2045 Community Survey #1
270
Parks, School and surrounding open space
10/9/2019 8:08 PM
271
Safety; Sign ordinances that prohibit billboards; open space; low building height; buried power and phone lines
10/9/2019 8:03 PM
272
The weather.
Not much crime. Not much traffic. Parking is free.
The Teachers are fantastic.
10/9/2019 8:01 PM
273
The small town feel and the open space
10/9/2019 7:58 PM
274
#1: Open space, no question.
10/9/2019 7:58 PM
275
Ample open space; friendly attitude; small town feeling. 10/9/2019 7:53 PM
276
Open spaces, bike Lanes.
10/9/2019 7:48 PM
277
Open space, fantastic parks
10/9/2019 7:46 PM
278
safe, open space, stars at night
10/9/2019 7:43 PM
279
It's a small community and still relatively safe.
10/9/2019 7:43 PM
280
civic arts plaza, trails, oaks mall, lots of restaurants, open space, oak trees, parks, movies, friendly safe community
10/9/2019 7:43 PM
281
Large town benefits; small town feel. Safe. Diverse.
10/9/2019 7:41 PM
282
Safe and quiet neighborhood.
Close proximity to main freeways which connect to LA.
10/9/2019 7:36 PM
283
Big enough to have everything but not so big that you don't know anyone 10/9/2019 2:25 PM
284
Our wonderful open space and trails.
The design of neighborhoods that have nearby shopping and wide streets that usually aren't crowded.
Nice people and plenty of opportunity to volunteer and be involved with helping the community become a better place. 10/8/2019 1:16 PM
285
Open Space
10/7/2019 1:22 PM
286
Quiet, no overhead utility lines and absence of road billboards and high buildings make it easy to enjoy the beauty of the area. Great university involvement in the community, great library and parks ( except for the off leash dog parks). Older folks and the terrific activities for them - Conejo Adult Ed. Great city for affordable activities for retirees. 10/5/2019 6:25 AM
287
open space
10/4/2019 10:46 AM
288
small town feel.
not much traffic.
10/4/2019 9:22 AM
289
Feeling of space, many parks, good air quality, uncrowded, full range of services including health, education, commercial, retail.
10/3/2019 6:11 PM
290
Growing up here, I have seen it grow into a beautiful city with amazing services.
Many in my group
moved away after high school, including myself, but came back to raise our children here. 10/3/2019 5:13 PM
291
Great community.
Great schools and educational opportunities for my family.
Parks and trails -
open space.
Amenities - businesses.
City Services like the Library.
Safe.
10/3/2019 3:14 PM
292
Open space, convenient to markets, theaters, shops, etc. Easy commute to Ojai, Santa Barbara, and beaches. It has a community feel.
10/3/2019 11:28 AM
293
Great amount of open space and limited ridgeline building. I love being surrounded by nature and having a beautiful view from almost everywhere in the city. Also love the oak trees and semi-rural feel of the city.
10/2/2019 2:50 PM
294
I like the small town atmosphere even though this is not really a small town.
I like the Senior
Center, closeness to Reagan Library, general quality of life. 10/2/2019 2:24 PM
295
The proximity and convenience of open space.
10/2/2019 1:20 PM
296
Community, Safety, Clean
10/2/2019 12:56 PM
297
Open space. Clean neighborhoods and pothole free streets. Little traffic. Good weather. Abundant recreation opportunities. Great parks. Proximity to beaches, big city, and major airport. Good shopping. Lots of Oaks. Not a sanctuary city.
10/2/2019 12:54 PM
298
The green space surrounding our area, the citizens (friendly, caring, involved), the municipality (the City is caring, available, responsive), access to good shopping, Cal Lu.
10/2/2019 12:52 PM
299
Parks, schools, reasonable city governance, limited growth 10/2/2019 11:43 AM
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TO2045 Community Survey #1
300
small town atmosphere in a small city.
Schools have been great.
Easy to get around and navigate.
Great place to raise kids - lots of parks and fields
10/2/2019 10:28 AM
301
That there's a hiking trailhead within about a mile or less of every place in the city 10/1/2019 8:34 PM
302
Well cared for roads; Low crime rate; respected hospital in town; easy access to freeways. 10/1/2019 7:56 PM
303
Size, wEather
10/1/2019 5:16 PM
304
One story buildings, small town feel, many oaks trees, and mostly the moratorium on building on mountain tops to give a rural nature to our city.
10/1/2019 5:01 PM
305
Slower lifestyle, clean, less traffic, less congestion
10/1/2019 3:54 PM
306
Open space, outdoors and clean environment, good schools 10/1/2019 2:53 PM
307
Safety, lots of services, friendly, beautiful
10/1/2019 12:25 PM
308
Quiet and safe
10/1/2019 12:00 PM
309
I've lived here since 1971 and boy has it grown.
I like that it still has that small town feel.
I grew up
in the west San Fernando Valley and don't like going down there; too much traffic and too many people.
So glad when I come back to my Conejo Valley
10/1/2019 11:56 AM
310
Low crime rate, a generally safe city Bike lanes, parks and hiking trails 10/1/2019 11:51 AM
311
- Open Space - Family oriented city - Safe city
10/1/2019 11:45 AM
312
Civic engagement, schools, safety
10/1/2019 10:38 AM
313
Lots of open space, limited development so that the City is not too crowded, public safety, and the friendly, down to earth people who live here.
10/1/2019 9:54 AM
314
Climate, location.
10/1/2019 9:15 AM
315
surrounding natural beauty safety a network of relationships here 10/1/2019 8:50 AM
316
The people , the outdoor activities , the overall feel of home 9/29/2019 1:41 PM
317
Green areas, good schools, community feel,
9/29/2019 10:58 AM
318
Outdoor activities
9/28/2019 2:18 PM
319
Well planned, great parks and open space, excellent Library, Senior Center, Youth Center, Community Conscience facility, California Lutheran University, Gardens of the World, Civic Arts, the Oaks,
9/28/2019 11:23 AM
320
Everyone here is very welcoming and friendly
9/28/2019 10:17 AM
321
City staff responsiveness is caring, timely and professional for their residents.
Beauty and
conveniences.
9/28/2019 8:23 AM
322
Open Space, parks, local "hometown" community atmosphere, local entertainment (Civic Arts Plaza)
9/28/2019 7:24 AM
323
natural landscape is beautiful, close to the Santa Monica mountains and the ocean 9/28/2019 6:35 AM
324
Semi-rural feel and open spaces; horse properties nearby. 9/27/2019 4:50 PM
325
Space and schools
9/27/2019 12:31 PM
326
Clean air, suburbia
9/26/2019 7:24 PM
327
Crime free; friendly polite people; close knit community 9/25/2019 8:07 PM
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TO2045 Community Survey #1
Q6
What are the key issues and opportunities facing Thousand Oaks today and in the future? Identify specific issues that are facing the City of Thousand Oaks, and describe what opportunities exist to overcome these challenges.
Answered: 315
Skipped: 124
#
RESPONSES
DATE
1 Traffic is and will increasingly be a challenge.
Traffic light management is very poor here - often
you sit ridiculously long at a traffic light for no good reason which just contributes to pollution and lost time.
We need traffic circles as well as smart lights.
Low density development with multiple
stories will really change the character and what we love about TO.
I question whether we need to
change the Master Plan. I think it would be great to have a prettier downtown near the Civic Arts Center, but it should be quaint rather than made into an urban mall-like place. Certainly allowing multiple stories structures would not be desirable, not more than two stories. No more apartments or condos there!
Overpopulation is already a problem!!
10/29/2019 6:20 PM
2 Pedestrian and bike safety. The bike lanes shared with traffic are a nightmare - usually leads to bikes on sidewalks and then nowhere for pedestrians. There are also too few crosswalks on Thousand Oaks Blvd - we could use more to encourage people to cross safely instead of just jaywalking. We also need more affordable housing. There are too many luxury apartments going up and pricing people out of their own neighborhood.
10/29/2019 5:00 PM
3 affordable housing and transportation (especially for seniors) Does AMGEN still want a hotel-type facility?
Perhaps the city could co-sponsor that if AMGEN will chip in for some low-cost housing perhaps at the same site.
Please do not raise the D.A.R. rate.
Seniors didn't get a 25% rise in their
S.S. income. They might as well just use Uber/Lyfte. People are not using public transit because the buses do not connect timewise.
There needs to be not just awareness that it does exist, but a campaign to overcome community perception Right now, they think only "poor" people ride the bus which is a detriment in this affluent community.
10/29/2019 3:59 PM
4 Affordable housing, spots for young professionals from Amgen (so they stay versus commute), good restaurants
10/29/2019 1:51 PM
5 1)
I believe the challenges we face are faced by many communities.
I think we have an aging
community without appropriate housing available.
My parents lived, worked, and loved this
community for 30 years.
However, when they retired and had knee issues, they could not find a single story small house in a well maintained neighborhood.
They ended up moving to a Del Web
community in Northern California.
They are VERY happy there but I am sad that we do not have similar options here.
I see so many parents of my friends from growing who remain in their larger home because they can't find affordable single story homes.
Maybe some larger homes could be
freed up for new families if we simply had options here.
Why not try to have some senior living
options near stores, entertainment,
or medical facilities.
2)
I think continuing to put more of our
electrical wires below ground is a good way of keeping our city safe from in fires and earthquakes.
In addition, it
helps with the aesthetics of our community.
3)
Retail has suffered from the internet,
but I like to think it is not dead.
I hope we can strike a balance that gives reasons for people to have stores not as a destination but mixed into areas shoppers may go anyway--near the dentist, a restaurant, an apartment.
I understand some of the arguments against mixed use but I think it should still be explored.
I enjoyed when I lived away from TO in my 20s to be able to walk to restaurants near my condominium.
4)
Continue to explore children activities.
I like that there are a
growing number of school options for students.
Not all children thrive in a traditional classroom
setting.
I hope the school board can stop trying to make parenting decisions for families and instead come up with options that allow parents and student direct what is best for them. 10/29/2019 1:47 PM
6 Affordable housing is a problem.
Traffic congestion is becoming a problem.
10/29/2019 11:38 AM
7 too much development, too many people. Need more police to check for speeding motorists on
the roads and red light camera's for people running red lights 10/29/2019 11:29 AM
8 this town has lost its small town vibe with traffic, over populated neighborhoods and congested streets and consumerism
10/29/2019 11:05 AM
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TO2045 Community Survey #1
9 Affordable housing and related demographics. T.O. feels to me like it’s transitioning from a middle income family community to an elderly and wealthy community. T.O. should focus on its attracting demographic diversity including age of its citizens, ethnicity and race. My four kids are now all adults (35 to 45 yrs old) and all moved to other areas of the country driven by affordability and job opportunities. I know many T.O. citizens who have the same issue. 10/29/2019 9:00 AM
10 Car bottlenecks in local streets. Could use more walking and biking paths. 10/29/2019 8:33 AM
11 Traffic. Partisan politics playing out in local committees, especially the CVUSD. Churches buying private property that the city planned for general community use and health promotion. 10/29/2019 8:30 AM
12 i don't think there are any huge issues
10/29/2019 7:41 AM
13 This development of lands was shoved down resident dwellers .. this is disgusting and unacceptable
10/29/2019 7:36 AM
14 Lost Jobs
10/28/2019 11:46 PM
15 Accommodating the population growth without losing the small town atmosphere. I much prefer a TO Blvd. with a Carson Center than a duplicate of downtown Glendale or Pasadena. 10/28/2019 10:33 PM
16 Housing market out of the average young family’s price range 10/28/2019 9:44 PM
17 Homelessness, home prices, business retention. We are at a fork in the road where some businesses need to adapt to the changing markets, but we need to be able to equip them to do so by adjusting operating costs, rent, and property taxes to help in that transition and ensure long term growth
10/28/2019 9:15 PM
18 Affordable housing for service workers, first responders and teachers; the housing prices are keeping middle income and lower income people from living here; declining enrollment in the public school district
10/28/2019 7:47 PM
19 Affordable housing that is not stigmatized, so that people can live and work in the same community. Thousand Oaks is not the bedroom community that it once was, and if it is going to continue to be prosperous in the future, it needs to provide for its aging citizens, to make it affordable for young families to move in, and to support the workforce that is increasingly pushed away—everyone from teachers to gardeners to service jobs needs to be able to survive in a economically divided world.
10/28/2019 7:24 PM
20 Affordable housing for young people - the Land Trust Idea sounds like an idea worth exploring. In fill along Thousand Oaks Boulevard mixed use housing and business and sidewalks for walking. 10/28/2019 7:18 PM
21 Too much new development. Limit growth.
10/28/2019 5:39 PM
22 Homelessness
10/28/2019 4:51 PM
23 Challenges--overdevelopment, traffic congestion.
Opportunities:
planning to prevent
overdevelopment.
10/28/2019 3:52 PM
24 over development
maintain zoning restrictions
10/28/2019 3:17 PM
25 Affordable housing for young people (some with college debt). Our children are moving not only outside of our community but to other states because of housing costs and high taxes. 10/28/2019 2:51 PM
26 Traffic, crime, overcrowding, homeless. Not sure what can be done to overcome any of the above. 10/28/2019 1:28 PM
27 Housing is necessary if new businesses want to come to the City of TO 10/28/2019 12:40 PM
28 Getting more crowded, homelessness, mom and pop shops going out of business. Need more walk ability to fun hangout places.
10/28/2019 11:58 AM
29 Key issue is city and state leaders want to build build build (ok, city leaders not to the point of Newsom, but still more than most of us want--let the market determine housing costs.) 10/28/2019 11:57 AM
30 The biggest challenge is that there is too much of a push to keep building. Thousand Oaks is popular because of the open space and quiet. If the city keeps allowing investors to build it will be at the expense of what is special about Thousand Oaks/Westlake Village, Newbury Park, Conejo Valley.
The traffic is too much, there is not enough water, electric grids are over demanded. The city leaders need to keep open space, and keep density down. No building up (numerous stories on buildings) either.
10/28/2019 11:53 AM
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TO2045 Community Survey #1
31 The people of Thousand Oaks refuse to change, or are afraid of change.
They don't want more
apartments or housing or anything else that might affect their current way of life even if it is for the bette.
People talk about inclusion and welcomeness but refuse to allow it when it directly affects them.
They don't want any more growth beyond what it was like when they arrived, but growth is inevitable and if they want their children to be able to live here as adults, they are going to have to be willing to allow more lower priced (not necessarily low income) housing.
This town is full of old
people with a not-in-my-backyard mentality.
The City has a great opportunity to develop the
Boulevard with mixed-use housing and the "walkable" design that will benefit everyone whether it is liked or not.
10/28/2019 11:51 AM
32 We need more youth and family-oriented businesses and more unique, independent restaurants and entertainment venues. CAP is great for older residents, but not much to attract young adults or teens.
10/28/2019 11:18 AM
33 Homelessness - our laws should be made more strict, and enforced sternly. A shelter is not the solution. Internet - reliance on the telecom companies is a big liability. We should be running our own municipal internet. Look it up. Housing development - no city can expand infinitely, and dense housing developments are just a bandaid fix, and an ugly one at that. We should be working together with other cities to push back against ridiculous and impossible state mandates.
Fiscal
responsibility - remaining business friendly and open minded is of the utmost importance. Both for jobs and tax purposes.
Infrastructure - some our intersections are disastrous. These need to be fixed. And it will only get worse as you keep approving dense housing developments. Where is the plan for scaling our roads to handle that additional traffic? These things are important and impact the residents on a daily basis. Quality of life matters. The flashing yellow turn arrow signals are great. Implement more of those please. Technology - we need to be thinking about the reality of the impact that tech will have on communities, including ours. Drone flight paths for deliveries.
Autonomous cars driving themselves in holding patterns while the owner shops. Or to and from an off site parking lot. These are small examples of forthcoming problems from tech, and we need to be ahead of them. Otherwise our reaction to them will be unprepared and inadequate. Open space and trails - we need to make sure that our open space and trails are not encroached upon or reduced in their priority etc. Those trails and that general mindset are a large part of what makes this area so desirable and valuable.
10/28/2019 10:56 AM
34 Wireless transmitters near people's homes multiplying in at an unprecedented pace unlike other cities who have an ordinance which has more protections built into it.
The city's wireless
consultant has a conflict of interest and yet the city keeps hiring him to the detriment of the residents and that's inexcusable. The question above asks about opportunities to overcome challenges...hire a new consultant! It's been long enough and he's not worth the extraordinary price the city is paying.
10/28/2019 9:58 AM
35 As a millennial, my wife and I just moved back into town with my parents after spending some time in Irvine as I stayed there after graduating from UCI. What I’ve seen is slow growth to modernize the city and attract younger families. At this point in our lives, we can’t afford a $750K fixer upper in town but we are used to resort style apartment living as we did in Irvine and we’ve found it very challenging to find that. In some ways TO reminds us of Irvine but we hope the city modernizes and evolves in the way that Irvine has - gorgeous parks, master planned bike trails throughout town, shopping & eating, corporate jobs, etc. We walked through The Oaks mall the other day on a Saturday and it was dead! Same with the Janns. Compare that with a Saturday at the Spectrum/South Coast Plaza. TO is definitely an older town but we do see it slowly changing and modernizing but those are just some things that come to mind. 10/28/2019 9:29 AM
36 Preserve open space and environment.
Work to make housing more affordable. Encourage
diversity in our community.
10/28/2019 9:03 AM
37 Obviously, the changes in state laws allowing for more recidivism and the costs of housing on the rise makes it difficult for hard working folks to stay here and for all of us to be safe as we used to.
Traffic congestion is worrisome as is the ever changing weather that is having a devastating effect on our fire risk.
10/28/2019 8:24 AM
38 Making sure that TO stays a safe and viable community for its residents without the big city hassles.
Reasoned growth is the best path.
10/28/2019 8:07 AM
39 People shouldn't go hungry, too many gun nuts
10/28/2019 7:40 AM
40 Homelessness is on the rise, housing is too expensive, too much traffic. 10/28/2019 7:30 AM
41 Affordable housing, keep community safe, preservation of natural resources, avoid/contain pollution etc
10/28/2019 7:19 AM
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TO2045 Community Survey #1
42 Cost of housing and lack of diversity and culture.
Our kids are off to college; they can’t afford to
move into the community they grew up in, and they complain that there is not enough diversity.
10/28/2019 7:12 AM
43 Thousand Oaks has become way too political and divided. Everyine is fighting. It didnt used to be this way. Getting rid of the CV parade was the worst idea ever. We have lived here for 50 years and it has changed a lot. The politicians used to promote slow growth. We need a lot more kids friendly places to go for teens. Dojoboom and Dave and Busters is about it. The teen center is helpful but many things cost money.
10/27/2019 11:28 PM
44 Climate change, shrinking student enrollment affecting the quality of our public schools.
I don’t
think more private schools should be allowed to be built - they pull more students out of the public school system.
10/27/2019 9:40 PM
45 High density housing going in... we don't want to live in the SFV 10/27/2019 8:35 PM
46 Wild fires
10/27/2019 6:58 PM
47 affordable housing without jeopardizing density, keeping open space without it becoming overused and abused, making opportunities for young families to be able to afford to live here and continue the lifestyle we love, keeping commercial development to a reasonable level.
Opportunities to
address these issues rest with an informed and involved citizen group-please keep in touch with your consitituents
10/27/2019 6:28 PM
48 Some concerns we need to address are high cost of living, decreasing public school enrollment, and increasing homelessness. The community is good at rallying together in times of need. More opportunities to serve and meet community members' needs may help unify people more and make it easier to address polarization on controversial issues. 10/27/2019 3:30 PM
49 Lack of younger people, need more affordable housing Lack of transport to LA or to metro station Need to encourage young professionals to come here, start businesses and create some employment so we are not dependent on Amgen
10/27/2019 2:53 PM
50 High property value means no young people can move here. I’ve actually tried to be closer to work and I couldn’t afford anything at all in this area — and I make a manager’s salary. It will soon be a city of old people and companies.
10/27/2019 2:48 PM
51 Racism, sexism, ableism, and homophobia/transphobia etc. Still is horrible if your not white or cis/het
10/27/2019 1:18 PM
52 Affordable housing for young people growing up in the area. I think that there are areas that could support a few apartment buildings, but I don't we should build them in every space that is open.
I
think that the percentage of affordable housing should be spread out, not all in one building. I think the traffic is growing ever increasingly bad and that before any apartments are built the 23 Freeway needs to be widened, OR perhaps a light rail put in between the freeway lanes between Simi, Moorpark, TO, Newbury Park and Westlake Vlg.
It would be great if the surrounding cities
could all work together. The traffic on TO Blvd is awful at certain times of day and I think the traffic lights needs to be reviewed.
10/27/2019 12:35 PM
53 MAJOR concerns with safety and amount of cell towers going in hope to keep town small not chain stores everywhere
10/27/2019 11:41 AM
54 I think the two biggest issues are affordable housing and not retaining a younger portion of the population. Solving the former will help a lot with the latter. More community events that aren’t completely centred around families and children could also help increase involvement from younger, single adults.
10/27/2019 10:49 AM
55 Protecting open space
101 traffic
local jobs in STEM fields
Too much dependence on Amgen
Sufficient broadband infrastructure in all neighborhoods to support and encourage remote working in order to reduce traffic congestion/pollution from commuters Bury remaining overhead utility lines
10/27/2019 10:04 AM
56 Housing constraints (cost and availability) combined with challenges to open and run businesses (red tape, cost of rent, etc.) affecting economic development. 10/27/2019 9:29 AM
57 Need a plan to deal with the homeless coming into the community and stop it before it ruins the city.
Arrest the people who steal and do the drugs. It is starting and if not curbed it will only get worse. I can see it happening
abd city id NOT taking corrective action and NEEDS to activiely pursue having law enforcement curtain the situation..
10/27/2019 6:49 AM
58 Lack of affordable housing.
A small but very vocal group trying to derail the school board. 10/26/2019 10:12 PM
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TO2045 Community Survey #1
59 Affordable housing for our children, and those who supply services to us. Low density buildings on TO blvd, if done with planning and care can be positive for more housing. Allowing for differences in the way we think and what we believe, being more diverse. 10/26/2019 8:41 PM
60 Rent control, cannabis, overcrowding and overbuilding. Homeless. Lots of opportunity with stable vendors to bring to the downtown area. Make that strip of TO blvd. Safer for walking and strolling down the shops.
10/26/2019 8:20 PM
61 Increase in traffic congestion, growing difficulty finding parking, over development creating empty commercial space all around town, cutting down oak trees (and not planting oaks), high density apartment buildings changing semi-rural character of city, need for bigger set-backs along TO Blvd, tall buildings (over 2 story) being approved, need for more independently owned restaurants- less chain/corporate owned restaurants
10/26/2019 6:56 PM
62 Opportunities
To continue to improve our school system. We have resources to be one of the best school districts. I hope we do this.
Uncluttered roads where development is strictly monitored so as not to ruin the small town feel we have even with 120k+ population.
Issues
Too much development
on the blvd. We will need to closely monitor how current and future buildings evolve.
Current city
council often swayed by developer dollars. They have to remain balanced. With the current incomes and property taxes in this wealthy city, we should have enough resources to not need a lot of development.
10/26/2019 6:01 PM
63 Specific entertainment amenities are lacking in the city, which is starting to change. Biggest issue is a divide between those who would like and would not like to see development of property,
development of nightlife and a more exciting atmosphere. People who are against development do not understand that there are smart uses for density, and good places for smart growth. Aging population is also a problem, as the demographic ages, target businesses start to suffer housing market is negatively effected. Also the lack of starter homes and new condo or townhomes make it very difficult for a younger population to exist. With rezoning, smart growth and smart density can be a great way to help young responsible people who want desperately to live here. 10/26/2019 5:44 PM
64 Affordable housing to attract young families.
If we aren’t intentional in our city planning we will end up a Senior Citizen Community.
10/26/2019 4:59 PM
65 Affordable housing and retail space
10/26/2019 3:32 PM
66 Housing, traffic, school
10/26/2019 3:20 PM
67 Homelessness. High prices for young families is causing flight from the area. The CVUSD school board and the presence of Evangelicals making policy decisions that should NOT be part of the public sector. We must have a separation of church and state. 10/26/2019 2:56 PM
68 Key issues are over population, traffic, homelessness, over development,
climate change,
fire risks
10/26/2019 2:27 PM
69 I think Thousand Zola’s has a great opportunity to just keep doing what it’s been doing. It doesn’t need to be bigger to be better. It’s as far as I’m concerned the perfect size.
I think homeless
population of it continues to increase is a challenge. Los Angeles is basically over run with. I end in sight.
10/26/2019 2:25 PM
70 The loss of open space and the city pushing to build more and more. Don't want buildings over three stories. Don't want increased density and building in open space area. Traffic now is a nightmare, much worse than when we moved here in 1971.
10/26/2019 1:25 PM
71 Illegal immigration.
Overbuilding. Public schools are failing.
10/26/2019 1:13 PM
72 Realizing we are at build out. Quit trying to make us a large city. Figure out how to cut the budget instead of trying to get more developer money to fill the coffers 10/26/2019 12:49 PM
73 Wayfare and parking
10/26/2019 9:16 AM
74 Traffic and too rapid build out.
10/26/2019 8:32 AM
75 Lack of housing and amenities for yiung professionals, which is being address by the Blvd Plan.
Politics When it comes to the City, party affiliation doesn't matter. That is beginning to change, but to what end, I.don't know, because roads and the Blvd are non-partisan issues. 10/26/2019 8:15 AM
76 Getting too crowded, streets getting congested.
bike lanes under utilized, cars equals freedom for
seniors so will never give them up except for health reasons. a bike lane or walkway is proven no substitute for a car lane.
Adding more housing without increasing parking and adding more car/traffic lanes is poor planning and foolish.
Requiring less open space for more housing units.
This will remove what makes Thousand Oaks the valued community it is. 10/26/2019 8:03 AM
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TO2045 Community Survey #1
77 Traffic in TO any the nearby freeways.
I don’t like to go north on 101 anymore because there is so much traffic.
10/26/2019 7:26 AM
78 Fires! Clear out the brush.
10/26/2019 7:18 AM
79 Some key issues: * Rising crime- opportunity continues to be more community awareness and police involvement
* the threat of urban sprawl- opportunity is to prevent it and preserve our community. Support and city/ county support for small businesses to help diversify the business community and allow reasonable choices to the consumers 10/26/2019 6:17 AM
80 Homelessness
10/26/2019 5:40 AM
81 5G, smart meters and fire threat is the problem.
Mandates that threaten health (solar panels, water
restrictions in the home)
10/26/2019 1:08 AM
82 Panhandlers, homelessness, affordable housing, crime 10/25/2019 10:53 PM
83 Traffic.
Install smart traffic lights that can adjust timing depending on flow and direction. 10/25/2019 10:14 PM
84 Affordable housing,
community attitudes towards those experiencing homelessness, maintenance
community with little opportunity for growth
10/25/2019 10:14 PM
85 Building a downtown and getting ride of all the vacant buildings on TO Blvd 10/25/2019 9:40 PM
86 Too much traffic. Decrease in horse zoned areas
10/25/2019 8:30 PM
87 Aging population and the lack of resources for seniors, especially transportation.
Dial a ride does
not meet the needs of seniors who no longer drive.
It is too expensive and needs to include door
thru door service for seniors.
Lack of affordable housing especially for seniors and young people.
The high cost of building new structures and the lengthy approval process discourages developers from bringing affordable projects in TO.
The planning approval cycle needs to be shortened and
made less onerous and less costly
Congestion on Thousand Oaks Blvd.
The idea of redeveloping
TO Blvd with apartments above stores will just further increase congestion and environmental polluting
Lack of assisted living and memory care facilities will not be adequate to support the growing senior demographic.
Over the last 6 years three assisted living facilities have been rejected due to NIMBY's
10/25/2019 8:09 PM
88 Age friendly, transportation,
10/25/2019 8:06 PM
89 Low cost Housing, senior support, Latino Community support 10/25/2019 8:00 PM
90 Traffic Growth control
10/25/2019 7:58 PM
91 We don’t want Thousand Oaks Blvd to become like “the valley.” No apartments over businesses.
We have enough traffic there already.
10/25/2019 7:43 PM
92 Low income and affordable housing- The city council demanding more low income and affordable
housing to be included in developments. Racism- Public events to address the issue Public Transit-Council members taking a qualitative as opposed to quantitative perspective. Need vs.
Quantity of people using the bus.
10/25/2019 7:40 PM
93 Fires. We need to install In-Ground Fire Safety Shelters in parks, hiking trails and campgrounds. 10/25/2019 7:10 PM
94 I hope that the city stays the same. It’s a shame to see what has happened to so much of S California. There used to be so many beautiful areas now they have been taken over with ugly development. We have the opportunity to choose the right path - don’t make big changes! Thousand Oaks is wonderful as a result of its General Plan, it would be best to stick to it. 10/25/2019 6:54 PM
95 Homelessness. Over crowding. Traffic. Dense amount of low income housing in my immediate area.
10/25/2019 6:50 PM
96 Affordable housing;
balancing necessary density with open space;
preserving library hours and
services and materials.
Not allowing Thousand Oaks to become an enclave only for the rich and elite.
10/25/2019 6:36 PM
97 Racism, socio economic elitism
10/25/2019 6:08 PM
98 The thing that kills me is people not wanting apartments in the neighborhoods. I hope that the idea of mixed use with the example of the ice cream place in NP or Five07 coffee can win them over, somewhere to walk in the evenings to see neighbors and friends. 10/25/2019 5:53 PM
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TO2045 Community Survey #1
99 Issues: Too much congestion - major traffic problem and overcrowding. Nepotism within the city council. Unfair practices.
Opportunities: Preserve the remaining space and any Thousand Oaks history that hasn't already been built over. Save the arts! Preserve local arts. 10/25/2019 5:38 PM
100
Increased traffic, declining school enrollment, aging populations, unaffordability to Young families 10/25/2019 5:26 PM
101
Affordable housing is soooo important
10/25/2019 5:25 PM
102
Housing- Housing Housing.
The housing is not affordable for young families to live here.
Volunteerism is going down because everyone is stretched thin.
The families that do live here are
called upon to volunteer and donate more than is possible. 10/25/2019 5:25 PM
103
Affordable housing is or will become crisis. The complete lack of lower-cost housing, coupled with rising rents, price-out low and middle income people from living in Thousand Oaks. That will have direct impact on local business, the job market, and hurt TO in the long run. 10/25/2019 5:17 PM
104
Housing everyone lives with their parents. We need a lot more housing everywhere where people can walk to and from for services and amenities
10/25/2019 5:10 PM
105
The biggest unsolved issue is affordable housing for the young to middle age couples and families who work in or close to our city, and have grown up here, yet can't afford to stay.
Often requiring
state financial assistance for food or medical needs in order to get by with their basic needs.
This
struggle to just get by, as well as having little free time together as a family, often because the couple is working a full time job and an additional second job so their children can be in the community that they grew up in and love is something that we should be able to correct.
Additionally, we know that our society is healthier and stronger when families can have some free time together or just be able to afford to take a modest family vacation.
This is impossible for
hardworking parents trying to raise their families in the town they grew up in.
Trying to stay in their
home town, but having to pay outrageously expensive apartment rent prices.
Families moving from
one apartment special they find then the next year the rent goes up, so they move again.
Is that
healthy for young children? These families should be able to have more stability and the hope of putting some money away each month, towards the dream of buying a modest home or town home at least in their lifetime.
The stress put on these families affects their health.
It is the biggest
challenge we have in our city to make it possible for our young people to see hope for their families future in the place they love.
Having the ability to live, without constant struggle of barely getting by each day, year after year, but instead knowing your efforts and hard work can have success in trying to give their children the best they can.
This will keep our community much stronger, happier
and healthier.
Then the City of Thousand Oaks will continue to thrive. 10/25/2019 4:38 PM
106
Traffic congestion on freeways and major streets in City are getting impacted.
Parking at any mall
or grocery difficult.
At the holidays it is impossible to go shopping.
Use internet only.
10/25/2019 4:37 PM
107
Overdevelopment, too many high end businesses saturating the marketplace squeezing out the middle class, homelessness and theft, maintaining the landscape to reduce fire hazards 10/25/2019 4:12 PM
108
Our infrastructure isn't ready for the continued growth that is happening.
The cluster of cars
already at Westlake Blvd and TO Blvd now is enough to make a person crazy - to now add to it isn't the right way to go.
There needs to be a very detailed plan in place to do further growth on TO Blvd.
AND keep our open space.
NO high rise buildings.
Maintain the current limitations.
10/25/2019 4:07 PM
109
Traffic congestion, growing difficulty finding parking, over development creating empty commercial space all around town, cutting down oak trees (and not planting oaks), high density apartment buildings changing semi-rural character of city, need for bigger set-backs along TO Blvd, new developments are too close to street with very little greenery, tall buildings (over 2 story) being approved
10/25/2019 4:04 PM
110
Cost of housing for 30+
people who have grown up here but can’t afford to stay. 10/25/2019 3:52 PM
111
Declining School enrollment, marrying progress with protection 10/25/2019 3:41 PM
112
Impossible to get anywhere without a car. Lack of younger, diverse single people that generally brings in new industry. Too many chain stores. Not enough restaurants and nightlife. Not enough housing for young urban professionals.
10/25/2019 3:39 PM
113
loss of public space
10/25/2019 3:35 PM
114
Over development/over crowding is an issue. Preserving our rural feel. Traffic. Use existing vacant buildings instead of building more buildings and malls. 10/25/2019 3:05 PM
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Congestion and lack of parking for accessibility to restaurants and shopping. PLAN better! Stop trying to fit a round peg into a square slot, this City’s grown too fast with little to no thought in regards to circulation and accessibility.
10/25/2019 2:56 PM
116
Affordable housing for low and middle income families is the key challenge.
We need housing for
our teachers, our first responders, the staff at our restaurants, the people who babysit our children, and all the others who work in the community but cannot afford to live here with dignity. 10/25/2019 1:23 PM
117
The older generations making decisions for all the new young families moving in. The not in my backyard mentality and lack of inclusiveness.
The town is not very business friendly and it’s
expensive to open and keep open businesses
10/25/2019 12:50 PM
118
Thousand Oaks Blvd-I would like to see less massage places-and a plan to make it more beautiful 10/25/2019 12:03 PM
119
Traffic, traffic, traffic with little rhyme or reason to the duration of the lights. Stop the idiot diet plan on Arboles, which is the major artery to the 23 Freeway for the north side of TO. and whose restriction carries too much traffic in too few lanes. Way, way, way too much commercial space (how many nail salons, pet stores, discount stores etc. do we need?) Affordable housing is a problem, but fouling our nest with more and more destroys that which we are trying to preserve. 10/25/2019 11:32 AM
120
Key issues are over population and over building residential and commercial units. Opportunities to intentionally keep this warm community some what rural.
Bring quality art into the city.
10/24/2019 11:38 PM
121
Shortage of Housing, lack of entertainment, nothing for people to do in the evenings, no economic development programs, reactive local government, too much fear of change, aging population, no downtown, dead street retail, overly dependant on sale tax revenue only, no sense of place.
Incorporate flexible incentive programs to encourage the private sector to invest in the things we need and want, including a significant amount of housing. 10/24/2019 8:31 PM
122
I’d hate to see more heavy traffic due to too many high occupancy buildings along TO Blvd. The oaks and other large trees need to be replaced instead of just removed. I’ve heard there used to be guidelines in place here to replenish them but there seems to be ways to get around that now.
Keeping the master plan as close to the original and avoiding overdevelopment will help to keep Thousand Oaks a wonderful city to live in.
10/24/2019 5:36 PM
123
Reduction in/loss of small businesses, unaffordable housing and utility rates, federal and state regulations:
Cap the impacts on low/middle households. Traffic abatement. 10/24/2019 4:23 PM
124
The building system and process has gotten to be too bureaucratic with city government treating its citizens with respect and dignity.
10/24/2019 3:57 PM
125
Population density.
If we allow huge apartment complexes to be built our way of life will change and not in a good way.
10/24/2019 3:42 PM
126
More affordable housing but not by turning TO into the valley. 10/24/2019 3:40 PM
127
As a resident, I am noticing businesses closing.
This is taking away from our city and helping it
thrive.
10/24/2019 2:28 PM
128
Increasing homelessness throughout CA and definitely in TO 10/24/2019 10:28 AM
129
Fire safety, cost of living is too expensive, not enough restaurants or hang out spots for younger adults.
10/23/2019 3:59 PM
130
The schools need to be updated.
Most of the schools that have been around, longer than 25 years, look like they are stuck in the 1980s.
10/23/2019 3:24 PM
131
Lack of affordable housing options.
10/23/2019 3:18 PM
132
Rapid growth limiting nature
10/23/2019 3:10 PM
133
High cost of and lack of affordable housing and traffic. 10/23/2019 2:53 PM
134
While everyone likes higher home values, it has become debilitating and unfeasable for the next generation of homeowners. I had to leave Thousand Oaks in order to have any chance of renting/buying property. More housing, and more creative housing ideas (i.e- duplexes, 4-unit complexes, as well as higher density housing) all need to be built, and soon. 10/23/2019 1:29 PM
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Overdevelopment, traffic especially on Hillcrest, TO Blvd and 101(which are really the main ways to get through town), now people are speeding through neighborhoods because main roads are congested, distraction of nature (oaks, hillsides, dreams),too many tall buildings permitted on and around TO Blvd, plans being made for imaginary people who do not live here rather than the true residents, a small city tax would make it so TO wouldn’t be pressured to give in to developers who do not personally care about TO, set back at “Lupe’s” is a disgusting crime, I fear what short sided greedy planners will do with our beautiful town.
10/23/2019 11:53 AM
136
Traffic congestion.
We have approached or exceeded the carrying capacity for many roads.
Traffic
lights are not synced well on several main roads.
Parking is becoming challenging in some areas.
(Solutions:
better public transportation with incentives.
incentives for families to have kids walk or
ride their bikes to school,)
Empty commercial space all around town, yet new development does not utilize many of these spaces, such as the K-Mart property.
The changes to Thousand Oaks
Blvd is being forced on us.
Although, redevelopment is terrific,
too high density development is
ebbing approved for the size of the lots.
Parking and traffic are issues.
Don’t like having Chinese
pistache trees or crepe myrtles instead of oaks.
(Stop cutting the oak trees!
Plant more!) Need
bigger set-backs along TO Blvd, new developments are too close to street with very little greenery.
Would like FIO see more redevelopment similar to Turabtula Hill Brewery versus the “fake downtown, mixed-used construction.”.
How about adding beautiful murals about Thousand Oaks
to
the Sides of large building that are visible from TO Blvd, Hillcrest Drive, Moorpark Road and other main artery’s.
(This has successfully been done in many cities across the US, and in addition to beautification, it has helped to increase tourism and outside $$.
Multi-story, high density mixed-use
buildings threaten the
semi-rural character of city, City Council has been favoring high-end residential development at the expense of current residents (We need more lower cost, non-luxury housing.)
Energy & Water Use - continue converting water thIrty landscaping to drought tolerant landscaping.
Offer incentives to residents to do the same.
Encourage California Native Plants for
our wildlife, especially birds and pollinators.
Convery all street-lights
to
compatible LED- bulb
fixtures.
At parks and public places, change water fountains to water fountains/water bottle filling stations to encourage the use of reusable water bottles. 10/23/2019 12:17 AM
137
I don’t want the lot on Maurice owned by Cohen to be developed Into apartments. It’s an inappropriate location for a project like that.
10/22/2019 11:39 PM
138
Traffic is getting worse daily.
We see too many high rises going up.
Our population does not need
to be increased. We don't want 5G going in everywhere.
Sound walls make noise worse.
Too
much night lighting.
Too noisy.
We have human trafficking at our massage parlors.
We should get
rid of gun shops.
Too much gun violence.
We have allowed religion into our government and
School system, where it should not be allowed.
10/22/2019 11:21 PM
139
Traffic control is a key issue.
Understanding traffic patterns could curb this issue.
10/22/2019 7:17 PM
140
failure to perform previously mandated obligations prior to embarking on frivolous grandiose additional programs which seldom benefit the majority of residents 10/22/2019 1:11 PM
141
efficient public transportation, housing, especially housing near businesses/corporations 10/22/2019 11:15 AM
142
Resisting pressures to over develop and urbanize Need to maintain TO Blvd as major east-west arterial and commercial corridor
Control building heights to preserve views of surrounding hills Commit to minimize traffic congestion and maintain acceptable levels of service at intersections 10/21/2019 11:52 PM
143
City council's vision for growth seems to be at odds with TO residents, particularly those who have lived here a long time.
Council has the reputation that it is in league with certain developers to the detriment of the city.
We have a serious water problem yet more development is in the works.
Where is the water going to come from?
The police department is terrific and does a great job in handling the homeless to the extent they can. Clearly the homeless are becoming a problem in Thousand Oaks and much more attention needs to be focused on this. 10/21/2019 9:01 PM
144
Public office agenda, poor CVUSD leadership, police that dont represent the people. 10/21/2019 8:30 PM
145
Challenges: Traffic, traffic, traffic, Parking, parking , parking Don’t let TO become congested like
Orange County.
Solutions: Slow growth and dispersed building to keep small town feel and reduce traffic.
Do not build up TO blvd
10/21/2019 8:09 PM
146
traffic congestion, growing difficulty finding parking, over development creating empty commercial space all around town, cutting down oak trees (and not planting oaks), high density apartment buildings changing semi-rural character of city, City Council is favoring developers at residents expense, overpriced "Beverly Hills" type stores that do not suit the needs of majority of locals, too many questionable massage parlors, need for bigger set-backs along TO Blvd, new developments are too close to street with very little greenery, too many tall buildings being built on TO Blvd 10/21/2019 7:24 PM
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homelessness. Climate change effecting our community with fires-we did not have enough places for people with pets to evacuate to. Too many people/seniors sleeping in their cars with pets. I hope we can solve that before the next fires.
10/21/2019 8:48 AM
148
I see signs of religious bigotry and too many attempts at religious influence in civil matters 10/20/2019 5:50 PM
149
Not enough quality 55+ housing communities, so retirees will move out of the 5 bedroom homes and more entry-level housing/condos for young families and professionals 10/20/2019 7:30 AM
150
Traffic is terrible; too much development without considering water, energy & infrastructure needs 10/19/2019 1:48 PM
151
Aging city. Aging demographic. Turning into a big retirement community. No nightlife, upscale late night dining, no “epicenter” for people in there 20s and 30s. Poor small business economy. No new home development bringing people into the area. Poor artistic planning and development at the TO Civic Arts Plaza.
10/19/2019 11:33 AM
152
Balancing our community closeness as well as fostering growth while not being left behind on infrastructure OR burdened by archaic bureaucracy and policies lacking common sense. 10/18/2019 2:40 PM
153
Affordable residencies for the older generation to afford and stay around 10/18/2019 12:03 PM
154
Encroaching on Open Space and Overcrowding. Limit building and development, especially in open space. We have empty buildings that should be occupied before we start building more, even if they have to be re-purposed.
10/17/2019 4:53 PM
155
Homeless at the library and nearby park Lack of diversity among residents 10/17/2019 4:46 PM
156
Making it more accessible to younger generations, and not just a rapidly aging bedroom community.
10/17/2019 12:46 PM
157
We are experiencing a crucial lack of housing, rising homelessness, and lack an integrated public transit network that links us to our neighbors. Certainly building denser and more affordable housing is part of the solution, but addressing the city’s dependence on the car is also crucial. 10/17/2019 11:03 AM
158
One cannot afford to live and work in thousand oaks. There are limited job opportunities that would pay enough to have a safe studio apartment and pay bills within the area. Just difficult housing opportunities overall. There are areas of the city that can be rebuilt/repurposed for modern, aesthetically fitting, simple apartments that allow for single younger professionals/students/families to build themselves up with.
10/17/2019 10:56 AM
159
Affordable housing-City officials (planning department, city council) can zone/require developers to build affordable housing (apartment/multi-family) on available space (ie, where the old KMart was); protect open space-require greater amounts of open space in future development. 10/17/2019 8:14 AM
160
affordable housing economic development - focus on high skilled jobs and workforce transportation -- need more alternatives making the community fully inclusive of our diverse population
10/16/2019 2:24 PM
161
Lack of development - need to bring more younger family into the city in order to keep a sustainable future city development
10/16/2019 1:49 PM
162
Wildfire mitigation and clearing of useless dense brushy areas, like along Lang Creek. Water prices are too high. Negotiate a good deal for solar panels for TO houses. Too many City restrictions on building ADU's. Let people build out their front yards closer to the sidewalks, as it's wasted space and lawns are dead and gone. Stop laying off library staff. Need laws against outdoor cats, they kill birds.
10/16/2019 12:14 PM
163
Fires, too many HOA fees and overcontrol from HOA, no safe place for young people to hang out, gas stations close early for people who work early and go home late, 10/16/2019 12:01 PM
164
protection of open space, protection of oak trees, property developers encroaching on oak trees. opportunities: more parks, protection and enforcement of native plants, less density, better traffic flow
10/16/2019 9:04 AM
165
Overpopulation, traffic, pollution and an enduring water supply. A greater reliance on solar energy would be helpful.
10/16/2019 4:22 AM
166
Homelessness, affordable housing, overcrowding,
10/16/2019 12:05 AM
167
1. Noise 2. Traffic 3. Public safety
10/15/2019 10:30 PM
168
Traffic Safety High home prices
10/15/2019 9:45 PM
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Issues: growing homelessness, over growth with an emphasis on “luxury” living. Soon only the Uber rich will be able to live here.
10/15/2019 6:47 PM
170
Transportation, energy infrastructure, city infrastructure, affordable housing, sustainability, jobs 10/15/2019 5:19 PM
171
Issues: Expensive housing is deterring younger families and generations from moving to the area.
Freeway interchange (23/101) needs to be reconfigured to cut down on unnecessary traffic.
Expand bridge/add lanes (multiple lanes turn into one exit only lane is a daily issue) Construction/improvement projects are often unnecessary (Lynn road) and take place during very busy times of day, when schools are getting out (10+ schools off Lynn road) causes major traffic and avoidable accidents. Bike lane on Lynn is dangerous! Opportunities: emphasis on parks/recreation/outdoor activities. Keep open space, no need to build more housing/shopping centers at the expense of nature and valuable views. Borderline and fire tragedies are opportunities to show other communities how to come together with support and remembrance, as well as focusing on mental health to avoid future tragedies. Thousand oaks is a proud and strong community, we should be leading the nation by example. LA Rams are an asset to the community, and have become valuable residents. Involvement in youth activities as well as community involvement will only make our community stronger and more supportive of physical health. LA Rams should be embraced as they enhance our great city! 10/15/2019 3:39 PM
172
Resist the money!! Do not over build our town.
10/15/2019 3:27 PM
173
affordable housing is a very important issue. Every available lot should be used for affordable housing. The Redevelopment Agency authority's constraints on using open space for new affordable housing should be amended
10/15/2019 1:58 PM
174
Open Space , Over population , Keeping Thousand Oaks from being Overcrowded , congestion , Heavy Traffic
10/15/2019 1:08 PM
175
Overcrowding. Traffic is horrible on Moorpark and Lynn during peak hours. also ventu and Wendy off/on ramps are crazy.
Any future developments should take this into account. For instance Wendy inland 101 interchange was already bad. Then further development was done for Lowe’s shopping area.
Even though the interchange was worked on it’s still a mess.
I think if there were
better options to on/off ramps more lanes better flow. Work with Amgen to see when a majority of their work force arrives/leaves.
10/15/2019 12:40 PM
176
Too many people!
Mom and Pop stores are disappearing.
Too much drug related crime.
Homeless
beggars everywhere.
TO is just becoming the Valley!
10/15/2019 11:41 AM
177
Always defined as a community of the future, so adapting technology with 5G(future 6G) cellular networks will provide safer streets and more advanced networking for home, automobiles, and businesses.
Challenges will be the 5G fear activists that continue to plague the speed of adoption of technologies with there unproven theories and scare tactics about either wireless or cellular technologies.
Fortunately, 99% of scientists who understand 5G and future 6G implementations show continued improvements of safety.
10/15/2019 11:13 AM
178
Drugs, wannabe gangs, non disciplined schools, bullying, there's absolutely nothing to do here, needs more social events and get togethers, we need love in this city 10/15/2019 9:57 AM
179
Freeway traffic has increased significantly over the past 5 years, and continues to get worse.
Small crimes, such as theft, seem to be increasing.
And even though marijuana is legalized, I think
allowing shops to open would not be good for the community. 10/15/2019 9:22 AM
180
Traffic, traffic and more traffic.
Affordable housing.
10/15/2019 9:02 AM
181
Safety, keeping low density, reducing traffic
10/15/2019 9:01 AM
182
guard against becoming Orange County!
i.e. don't become anymore crowded.
Don't become any
more like Encino!
10/15/2019 8:46 AM
183
One issue is that of bicycle safety. I ride my bike regularly and people consistently get too close to or enter the bike lane while I am riding. One thing that could change that would be to put some delineators evenly spaced along bike lanes to make people more aware of them. Another option could be to make the entire lane a certain color, like white or yellow, to make it an obvious bike path.
Another major issue for me is that of street lighting. In many older neighborhoods such as mine there is no significant street lighting, making it dangerous to go out at night. Installing even small lights along the sides of the road would make it significantly safer to walk, jog, ride bikes, and even drive in our neighborhoods in the evening.
10/15/2019 8:22 AM
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Thousand Oaks has overbuilt and many of the strip malls, etc., stand nearly empty.
The houses
are too close together in many places for safe conduct of indigenous species.
If it were me, I would
limit house sizes to 2000 feet and tax any extra footage.
The homeless need to get off the street.
The CVUSD is not preparing students well.
I would pay private schools to open their doors here so parents have a choice.
Traffic is terrible!
10/15/2019 8:18 AM
185
This is a beautiful town I fear too many people will live here. If too many people live here, it won’t be fun to live here. People will lose their loving attitudes and start driving and behaving like they do in Woodland Hills, very cold and selfish.
I absolutely hate sitting in traffic and our streets are too small to carry a bunch more people.
I fear some day it will be impossible to find parking, or simply drive down the street.
I like that this is a sleepy town. I don’t care if anyone feels bored or think there’s not enough “action “ here.
I entertain myself and enjoy the wide open space here, the quiet privacy and the friendly environment the community prides itself on. 10/15/2019 8:08 AM
186
Struggling to attract younger people, limited walkability through any part of the city 10/15/2019 6:14 AM
187
Housing and economic development seem to be the biggest challenge. Housing has become increasingly unaffordable. People that were born and raised here can no longer afford to stay. The small town feel and small business' has been replaced by failing corporate big box fast food, fast casual, boring cookie cutter ones! Unacceptable! Look to the success of Tarantula Hill Brewing Co. this is what we want. Homegrown businesses that locals love and passers through can visit.
Quality of life should reflect the escaping the hustle and bustle of LA and the San Fernando Valley. 10/15/2019 5:50 AM
188
Besides obvious issues related to preserving the beauty and values of Thousand Oaks it should resist over population and high rise commercialization and discourage discrimination in any form, race, religion, LGBTQ, etc. Let Thousand Oaks be a shining example of what America stands for. 10/14/2019 11:56 PM
189
TO is a lot of older people 65+ but the amount of young people is growing and there are not enough starting homes to keep young people around. When the Older generation passes there will be many empty houses and properties and no one to fill them. Ghost town. 10/14/2019 11:23 PM
190
Affordable housing is a key issue. Stagnant wage growth coupled with soaring house costs drives away the young, traps the middle aged, and puts the elderly in danger of homelessness. 10/14/2019 10:20 PM
191
Rise in homeless people, increasing density, poorly timed traffic lights. 10/14/2019 10:11 PM
192
Issue: Pressure from state/regional officials to increase housing supply at the expense of our city’s suburban character.
Opportunity: Adding housing along the city’s downtown corridor through thoughtful, well-planned mixed-use projects that still retain the city’s charm and character. 10/14/2019 9:10 PM
193
Transients, over building , traffic, transients.
10/14/2019 9:08 PM
194
I think economic growth which is driving expansion
10/14/2019 9:02 PM
195
I think that the homeless population growing is a real challenge to the city. It makes it feel less safe when I am out with my kids.
10/14/2019 8:52 PM
196
There is no more land to build single family homes. There are no new communities being built.
There is so much focus on affordable house and putting in apartments but really what is needed is more single family home, with no HOAs. There are open space laws but it can be done affectively to build on open space for single family homes and keep the lot sizes big to keep that pervious area.
10/14/2019 8:15 PM
197
Homelessness seems to be on the rise locally. Community outreach would be one opportunity to prevent homelessness.
10/14/2019 6:02 PM
198
Need continued development of parks.
Attract some Michelin restaurants.
The money is here!!!
10/14/2019 5:39 PM
199
Large population growth would ruin the City. Homeless, mentally ill and addicted people are becoming more visible. Too many panhandlers about. So many vacancies in small shopping centers demonstrate that online shopping is more dominant. The space of these obsolete outdoor mini-malls can be better utilized. Sacramento forcing building laws that are unsuitable for T.O. 10/14/2019 5:12 PM
200
Affordability. Families who are not affluent or socioeconomically middle class have a very difficult time living here. Including me and my retired fixed income parents. 10/14/2019 3:36 PM
201
Traffic and congestion on 101, 23 freeways, and surface streets.
Limited natural resources.
Controlled growth.
The growing homeless population and their drug and mental illness issues. Do not allow loitering and begging.
There are private and religious resources that the homeless can avail themselves of.
We need to look at housing them in a non residential environment. 10/14/2019 2:50 PM
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There is no plan to expand businesses in Thousand Oaks.
There is no downtown hub where you
do adults and families can meet. There seems to be a push to make Thousand Oaks a retirement community which is bad for families and businesses.
10/14/2019 2:34 PM
203
Affordable housing that meets the needs and preferences of more diverse economic groups and the tastes of young generations.
10/14/2019 2:14 PM
204
Urbanification, traffic, loss of open spaces, need to focus on redevelopment instead of development. Address this my declaring development moratoriums, provide incentives for redevelopment of commercial/residential areas, and decentralize commercial and industrial centers to reduce congestion and create more intimate communal areas. 10/14/2019 1:24 PM
205
Issues?
Crime has increased.
10/14/2019 1:06 PM
206
Over crowding and making it look like the valley
10/14/2019 1:05 PM
207
There is nothing for young families or young people to do. There should be a more vibrant downtown with more family focused fun in the daytime
10/14/2019 12:10 PM
208
Increasing homelessness and crime.
Pressure from state government to scrap limited growth, increase housing density, leading toward same path as LA, SF, and other failed parts of the state. 10/14/2019 10:38 AM
209
To expensive to live here, commercial and residential costs are way out of line. 10/14/2019 10:26 AM
210
To much traffic and crime on the rise
10/14/2019 10:07 AM
211
Overcrowding, both population and commercial development wise.
Slow growth initiatives should
be considered.
10/14/2019 9:48 AM
212
Opportunity is to keep TO
beautiful, clean and safe which allow the city to move forward on a good path.
Challenges are keeping high density housing at current levels and commercial development at a minimum and solving the rising homeless population. 10/14/2019 9:37 AM
213
The State forcing density, while TO trys to keep the City from becoming like the SF Valley in terms of sprawl, homeless everywhere, mini-malls on every corner, 3-4 story apartment buildings, traffic.
However, the City has made it too difficult for homeowners to build ADU's, which would increase density seamlessly.
10/14/2019 9:09 AM
214
Key opportunities are the spending of its funds on the residents and their needs and not those who are looking for handouts or a place to hid from the Federal or State police.
Further to keep its
residents safe as well as give them a reason to stay in this city and not move. 10/14/2019 8:37 AM
215
Housing prices are unaffordable, politics are very divided, increasing homelessness, and climate change which will continue to cause fires and droughts. These issues are all manageable if we chose to prioritize them.
10/14/2019 8:33 AM
216
Traffic, lack of affordable housing, bland strip malls, lacking in character. Could be helped by some mixed use development, less corporate greed, less council focus on revenue increases, more consideration of existing residents views.
10/14/2019 8:19 AM
217
Traffic and a lacking Sheriff's department budget to protect our city. Looking for federal grant money to increase Sheriff's budget and personnel.
10/13/2019 3:03 PM
218
Trying to pile in more houses and people than the valley can handle Dealing with the homeless problem that will destroy what we have Way too much traffic see 1st answer
10/13/2019 11:22 AM
219
affordable housing
10/12/2019 10:04 PM
220
Growth and price of housing (young families are priced out) 10/12/2019 3:06 PM
221
Need for utilization of village aspects instead of separations for easy access to homes, jobs, recreation, entertainment, senior services. Ways to unify instead of separating. 10/12/2019 3:05 PM
222
Affordable housing Allow greater density in some areas
10/12/2019 12:43 PM
223
(1) Rental housing cost has skyrocketed over the past decade.
Smaller, modern, sustainable and
more affordable options must be made available to the growing population. (2) Walking, biking,
and mass transit infrastructure needs lots more development to reduce traffic congestion. 10/12/2019 10:44 AM
224
Maintaining family atmosphere and school quality. The push for urban amenities to attract millenials & hipsters is counterproductive. Focusing on affordable single family housing rather than densely packed multi-story apartments
10/12/2019 9:52 AM
225
Over population
10/12/2019 8:09 AM
36 / 70
TO2045 Community Survey #1
226
Lack of abundance of great business. Too many empty commercial building spaces. We need restaurants and shops that will appeal to families and younger people to bring them here. Also we need more “Amgen” large businesses to bring commerce and jobs to our area. Not to mention more affordable housing so all the younger people And families don’t have to move out of state just to survive.
10/11/2019 6:00 PM
227
Traffic
Overpopulation
10/11/2019 12:03 PM
228
Over density, loss of open space, traffic congestion
10/11/2019 11:50 AM
229
traffic, housing,
10/11/2019 10:28 AM
230
Cultural diversity: the city is becoming more diverse and cultural with residents and the activities and events should reflect that
10/10/2019 10:47 PM
231
Cost of housing is too high. More entry level homes can be built to accommodate low income state requirements. We already have enough new apartments being built. 10/10/2019 7:55 PM
232
5G is a major concern, homeless, traffic due to mixed use developments which i am against, increased crime, get flouride out of water
10/10/2019 2:53 PM
233
As a cyclist I feel that Thousand Oaks can increase the bike lanes around the community.
I also
feel that homelessness is increasing, so I am interested in understanding how we are managing/ providing services for this community.
10/10/2019 1:20 PM
234
Public transit really needs to be improved.
10/10/2019 12:56 PM
235
overcrowding and too much traffic
10/10/2019 12:50 PM
236
Housing for low income family.
Concern for our growing home-less population.
10/10/2019 12:38 PM
237
We need reputable cannabis dispensaries, especially for medical patients! TO is losing a lot of business in that sector. Affordable housing is also needed to allow younger families to be able to live here.
10/10/2019 12:28 PM
238
Lack of affordable housing. Maintenance of community assets i.e. roads, utilities, parks, and services.
10/10/2019 11:16 AM
239
Traffic, fires, safety...
10/10/2019 9:27 AM
240
Corporate priorities versus the highest good of the people in the community. Keeping a small town feel. Being proactive about climate change before life and property are in jeopardy. Using drought resistant and less flammable plants in new developments. Overcoming these challenges depends on leaders who don't mix corporatism with fundamentalism. 10/10/2019 9:23 AM
241
Affordable housings Protection of open space Providing Mixed of Uses Homelessness 10/10/2019 8:25 AM
242
No downtown/common gathering space, no personality- we are a suburb, which has its pros and cons. I wish we had a downtown to walk through.
10/10/2019 8:24 AM
243
1. We must plan to have the resilience to cope with the impact of global climate catastrophes.
2. We must plan ways to become more diverse in age, income, race and culture. 3. We must incentivize affordable residential housing by higher density infill adjacent to commercial areas and by eliminating the ADU surcharge. 4. Plan to reduce automobile use by taxing private parking and
charging for all public parking except at transit centers while providing free public transit. 10/10/2019 8:08 AM
244
Key issue is updating existing infrastructure.
10/10/2019 8:06 AM
245
not enough water, save it 101 traffic, more public transportation too many houses in fire zone,
control them
10/10/2019 7:47 AM
246
To mention only one of the issues, too many Mexican are taking over most of the jobs and not necessarily with lower earnings. A none educated Mexican women cleans 1-2 houses every day, 7 days a week making at least $180-$200 everyday, it adds up to at least $4000 a month. And still she steals something from my property every time if I don’t watch her CAREFULLY! How we can solve this issue? it’s out of my hand at least!
10/10/2019 7:44 AM
247
Need more entertainment spots and food
10/10/2019 6:49 AM
37 / 70
TO2045 Community Survey #1
248
Lack of affordable housing. The community is getting older and young families can't afford to move to the area to replace the existing, aging population. If TO can't attract young people/young families to the area, then TO will lose money and schools will continue to degrade and the area will suffer. The aging population that is so against change won't be around forever. Once they're gone TO won't be a desirable community to live in, unless we act now. I'm not aware of any current affordable housing opportunities or efforts to attract young people or families to the area. 10/10/2019 3:13 AM
249
1. The homeless population has increased in recent years, as have drug-related crimes. The challenge for the city and law enforcement is a state legislature and executive branch that continue to implement policies that exacerbate these trends at the local level (e.g., early release from prison).
2. Affordable housing is out of reach for many families and there are fewer high paying jobs. The result is an aging demographic that is not organically regenerating itself.
3. Commercial/retail vacancies are very high. The Kmart building has been vacant the entire time we have lived in the city. Janss Marketplace and other shopping centers have empty storefronts.
Every quarter, it seems there are more empty spaces. And yet, building of new spaces continues (e.g., Lowes)
10/10/2019 12:00 AM
250
Traffic on the 101 and housing prices
10/9/2019 10:55 PM
251
Affordable housing, adequate infrastructure and a plan to deal with increasing traffic. 10/9/2019 10:12 PM
252
To many multi unit dwellings that are 2 story. Need more single story single family homes. 10/9/2019 10:11 PM
253
Transients/drugs/violence overtaking our precious community , transient fires, human waste to the sea, rodents, vermin, TO turning into the SF Valley. We must adhere to the existing laws , protect our tax paying citizens not pander to drugged out transients bussed here by other cities, states. 10/9/2019 9:51 PM
254
We do not have useful public transit.
We can run a trolley from the Oaks Mall, Janss Mall to
Westlake High School & back. a trolley from the Janss Mall up Moorpark Rd to the YMCA & back.
10/9/2019 9:29 PM
255
Affordable housing. The land trust idea for worker housing seems the most viable. 10/9/2019 8:47 PM
256
Manage growth and density in a specific way that maintains the unique quality of this town. 10/9/2019 8:25 PM
257
Population, community/mental health awareness, safety, security of houses of worship 10/9/2019 8:13 PM
258
Housing - Opportunities to provide small living spaces along Thousand Oaks and Hillcrest Blvds. 10/9/2019 8:08 PM
259
Need cultural support and growth - CMATO is great! More of that! Traffic is increasing - need better transit routes and interconnected bike paths! Increased crime and homelessness; refusal to recognize connection to drug abuse; prevention should be emphasized as much or if not more than treatment;
balancing housing needs with preserving the special character of the conejo valley; 10/9/2019 8:03 PM
260
Affordable housing. Rents under 1-2k and homes under 500k Places for teens to hang out like a
restaurant or cafe.
teen drug use and the opioid problems
Good Restaurants open after 9pm.
A
pedestrian friendly Main Street.
More street lights or brighter lights
It’s just too dark in Lynn rd.
10/9/2019 8:01 PM
261
The city's wireless transmitter policy which is not as strong as other local communities, thus more people may be affected physically by cellular antennas near their homes which affect everyone, the studies prove...so the city has the opportunity to amend its policy and put more protections for its residents.
10/9/2019 7:58 PM
262
Having the infrastructure to support the community. Namely: waste, recycling and , by far most important, compost facilities; sufficient water and wastewater treatment/service capabilities; and keeping a good balance between proving affordable housing and maintaining our open spaces. 10/9/2019 7:58 PM
263
Issue: Affordable housing
Opportunity: Existing space to build affordable (multi-family) housing.
Issue: traffic. Opportunity:
Locate commercial use off the main “boulevard “ and build multi-use development in adjacent areas to minimize traffic on TO Blvd. 10/9/2019 7:53 PM
264
Housing affordability.
Need for increased density.
Jobs closer to dense housing.
Need to increase
capacity on 23 and 101.
10/9/2019 7:48 PM
265
Affordable housing, transportation and good paying jobs nearby. Being thoughtful and strategic about identifying potential locations for affordable housing including multi-family housing. Housing that is affordable for the people who work in Thousand Oaks to help minimize commuting and promote utilization of transit.
Homeless and social services also need enriched to preserve the quality of life of all residents regardless of their socioeconomic status. 10/9/2019 7:46 PM
266
Opportunities to:
celebrate generosity, criminalize greed
10/9/2019 7:43 PM
267
Crowding and traffic.
It's so much worse than it's been in the last five years. 10/9/2019 7:43 PM
38 / 70
TO2045 Community Survey #1
268
homelessness creeping north from LA, no new housing, young people getting outplaced with housing costs and limited employment in town, aging residents 10/9/2019 7:43 PM
269
Lack of affordable housing.
10/9/2019 7:41 PM
270
More and more traffic on 101 with congested suffice roads.
More open spaces built up for housing
and businesses.
10/9/2019 7:36 PM
271
Opportunities: continue to be a great place to raise a family, operate a business, and live an active, healthy lifestyle.
Issues: not enough affordable housing for young adults, workforce, or independent seniors. This is bad for businesses and traffic.
I don't want to live in a rich bedroom
community
10/9/2019 2:25 PM
272
The idea that we're going to crowd people into areas where evacuation won't be possible.
High
rise buildings that block the views like the ugly, giant freeway walls that have recently been built and make it seem like a rat maze.
10/8/2019 1:16 PM
273
transportation
10/7/2019 1:22 PM
274
More public education on homeless and affordability issues to gather constructive solutions. More opportunities for people to actively participate in building solutions with their own hands. More mentoring opportunities with low income youth while in school with their parental approval. 10/5/2019 6:25 AM
275
keeping businesses in city, maintaining open space, making city more fire defensible, traffic issues (reduce Lynn Road speed for one), more support or promotion of local business, stop wasting money on buses that seldom has riders
10/4/2019 10:46 AM
276
homelessness.
housing.
10/4/2019 9:22 AM
277
Maintaining quality of life at existing level or better. 10/3/2019 6:11 PM
278
There is not enough "affordable" housing - meaning, apartments or rentals that our younger population who are working at entry-level or service-oriented positions can afford.
They are leaving
the community that they grew up in, and many of them would rather stay here.
There is a focus on
either very-low income or market-rate housing, leaving this other population underserved.
Also,
providing ways for more "mom and pop" small businesses to thrive - moving away from what has made us "Generica."
The vacant business throughout the community are an eyesore - particularly the former Kmart site.
Although the City cannot do much with private property, there must be other alternatives that can be realized.
10/3/2019 5:13 PM
279
Attitudes towards people experiencing Homelessness.
Vitriolic sentiment and unhealthy debates at
School Board meetings.
Built out community with aging infrastructure.
Under-served populations
such as Latino families.
Affordable housing.
I think that the general plan needs to not only address economic and civic indicators but look at social issues and focus on working with community partners to provide services in the future.
10/3/2019 3:14 PM
280
Lack of affordable AND low income housing.
10/3/2019 11:28 AM
281
I am very worried about the possible overdevelopment of TO Boulevard. I have seen so many other So Cal cities that have been transformed by high-rise, multi-use developments in downtown areas, with all the related congestion. I fear that the main thoroughfare through the city will become gridlocked with too much traffic and inadequate parking for all the residences and businesses that are being contemplated. If the recent development of Tarantula Brewing Company is an example of the city's planning regarding parking, God help us all. The parking is so incredibly incredibly inadequate as to be laughable. Now we're all forced to dodge pedestrians (mostly jaywalkers) as we travel through that part of town. Also, developments with buildings higher than just a few stories will block all the lovely views of the mountains and surrounding areas. Already, this can be seen in Westlake, where buildings were approved and build at six stories, forever altering the views and diminishing our quality of life.
10/2/2019 2:50 PM
282
Transportation via freeways and major roads.
Cost of property and other necessary items.
10/2/2019 2:24 PM
283
Entry level Housing affordability to attract people who work in the area; the CA business and legislative climate that makes it less attractive to operate a business in the state and contributes to the housing affordability problem. We need realistic, fresh approaches to these issues. 10/2/2019 1:20 PM
284
Low income housing, homeless I do not know how the City can overcome the above.
Most
specifically, low income housing concerns me the most. In all cases I have been associated with, it brings crime and lowers property values.
10/2/2019 12:56 PM
285
Permanent home for the LA Rams. Keep property taxes moderate. Do not raise sales tax. 10/2/2019 12:54 PM
39 / 70
TO2045 Community Survey #1
286
Housing, good use of T.O Boulevard (the shops are outdated & dingy and the Boulevard is not walkable.
10/2/2019 12:52 PM
287
Incompatible State mandates, especially growth, outsider homelessness, financial limitations.
Continue lobbying State legislators. Sometimes inane local School Board. Use the ballot. 10/2/2019 11:43 AM
288
Housing prices keeping young families out.
Lack of walkability on TO Boulevard.
Oaks mall
vacancies and lack of retail in general.
10/2/2019 10:28 AM
289
Trafic
10/2/2019 12:16 AM
290
We need much better bike infrastructure to reduce the overwhelming degree of car traffic.
TO as a
"planned" community was built to privilege cars and it's difficult both to ride recreationally safely (no paved bike trails separate from roadways, such as rail-to-trails or creekside trails that other cities have), especially for children and families who might not want to ride on streets... and also difficult to live without a car even for nearby errands.
For instance, getting from my house NW of St.
Paschal Baylon church over to Vons or, even worse, Ralphs by bike is a traffic nightmare.
Very
badly planned for bikes and pedestrians.
Worst of all is the fact that we have no safe crossing of 101, so that trying to use a bike for errands across into Newbury Park is dangerous at best and scary or terrifying at worst -- since every freeway crossing is also a freeway onramp/ exit and people drive fast and hard.
I'm focusing here on bikes both as an intrinsic good (cities like Copenhagen that have invested in bike infrastructure report higher levels of health, quality of life, and pleasure, not to mention lower air pollution, carbon footprint, and stress) and as a marker for other human-centered planning initiatives.
For instance, converting some streets to solely
bike/pedestrian use (OR cutting four lanes to two and slowing traffic, via much wider medians, creative street design, expanded sidewalks, etc.) would be a terrific idea that also regenerates businesses in the area.
We need to plan for people, not cars, and work to reverse the bad planning of the 1960's that baked car-centeredness into our city's DNA. 10/1/2019 8:34 PM
291
Maintaining a tax base (revenue) to support the good roads and low crime rates. Seek other opportunities for a tax base besides auto sales; i.e. cannabis. 10/1/2019 7:56 PM
292
Housing costs Loosen restrictions
10/1/2019 5:16 PM
293
Too much traffic. And it continues to increase. Slow down building, no more new condos. Issue permits for cars to enter and park if they come from LA or outside T.O. 10/1/2019 5:01 PM
294
Traffic issues due to more housing (townhomes/apartments) 10/1/2019 3:54 PM
295
Cosmetically obsolete and tired looking.
Lacking simple things like landscaped medians, traffic
circles, multi family residential confined to the boulevard. 10/1/2019 2:53 PM
296
Homeless, too much growth
10/1/2019 12:25 PM
297
No downtown area,
very commercial T O Blvd
10/1/2019 12:00 PM
298
Increased traffic, homelessness, increase in the building of more homes/apartments.
Not happy
about the beautification of Thousand Oaks Blvd.
My solution for T.O. Blvd, I use Hillcrest.
One of
my biggest concerns is the use of tax payer dollars for the improvement of the Civic Arts Plaza area!!!
10/1/2019 11:56 AM
299
Must keep the Rams in town
10/1/2019 11:51 AM
300
- Affordable Housing for working class families - Useful public transit system - Better paying jobs 10/1/2019 11:45 AM
301
Homelessness, lack of affordable housing, increasing traffic congestion. 10/1/2019 10:38 AM
302
The biggest issue I see is the State of California imposing a radical agenda onto the City which we would be forced to comply with.
10/1/2019 9:54 AM
303
Affordable housing, climate change, homelessness.
Changing zoning laws and housing restrictions
can help affordable housing construction and reduce homelessness and encourage young adults to move in.
Reducing air pollution can help reduce climate change.
10/1/2019 9:15 AM
304
crowding with buildings enough places for aging population to live (assisted living, etc.) how to use the Oaks Mall property
10/1/2019 8:50 AM
305
Preserving the beauties of our city
9/29/2019 10:58 AM
306
Increasing traffic and noise together with decreasing availability of retail and services.
By
intensifying multi-housing development to support more transit services and intensifying commercial development in the core to provide opportunities for people to walk and cycle. 9/28/2019 2:18 PM
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TO2045 Community Survey #1
307
More affordable housing, year-round homeless shelter with case workers and support services, pedestrian friendly downtown with gathering place, shops, apartments, etc. 9/28/2019 11:23 AM
308
The traffic lights take a really long time to change to red 9/28/2019 10:17 AM
309
Cyber attacks, keeping up with technology while guarding health and security matters.
Increase
crime. Vulnaribility to wild fires.
9/28/2019 8:23 AM
310
Though we do not have as large of a homeless population as Los Angeles and Santa Barbara, we need to address how to help the homeless in our area.
We have beautiful park facilities, but the
buildings are aging and may need to be replaced in the near future.
We are blessed with open
space surrounding our city, but as seen recently, that can invite wild fires.
We are dependent of
the Cal. water project for our water.
As we can't produce our own water here, what conservation measures can be used and how can we support California water conservation? 9/28/2019 7:24 AM
311
the roads and automobiles disconnect people and create dysfunction.
The lack of public town
squares does the same.
9/28/2019 6:35 AM
312
Preventing 5G in our community. We have the opportunity to be another example of uniting in solidarity with what the people want.
9/27/2019 4:50 PM
313
The community feels very dated and has little to attract recent graduates or retain graduates to our area. Many surrounding areas are investing in new entertainment/shopping districts for pedestrians where friends and families can congregate.....while TO sits w TO blvd littered w strip malls from the 80's, no shade for walking and no place to congregate. 9/27/2019 12:31 PM
314
Desperately needs a decent public transit system. Needs to have a 24/7 mentality, not an 8-5 Mon-Fri mentality. Poor traffic flow.
9/26/2019 7:24 PM
315
Affordable housing for young families, humane solutions for homelessness and variety of entertainment after 5pm
9/25/2019 8:07 PM
41 / 70
TO2045 Community Survey #1
Q7
What is your vision for Thousand Oaks in 2045? Describe the community you would like to see in the future.
Answered: 306
Skipped: 133
#
RESPONSES
DATE
1 Keep the same sense of togetherness, continuing the Street Fair, Conejo Valley days, Oak Heart, Etc.
10/29/2019 8:58 PM
2 Keep it as much the same as it is today!!
10/29/2019 6:20 PM
3 I would love to see the civic arts plaza become a hub of downtown Thousand Oaks. It would be great to see even more community events happen there and other reoccurring events to encourage people to visit (fitness classes, outdoor movies, etc.). I would love to see more blended retail/housing projects and projects that would liven up Thousand Oaks Blvd. - places like Tarantula Hill Brewing.
10/29/2019 5:00 PM
4 See above.
A multi-generational approach to problem-solving. Set up an "informal" Think Tank where anyone can weigh in on various issues either by phone or computer.
Promote it in local
media, perhaps highlighting one specific issue per month.
Form a coalition with other similar
municipalities to explore what problems they have and how they approach them so we don't all
reinvent the wheel.
10/29/2019 3:59 PM
5 A proper downtown, more breweries and cocktail places, sophisticated nightlife, walking urban areas
10/29/2019 1:51 PM
6 I would like to see Thousand Oaks continue to be a great place for families to raise children.
Keep
up with activities for children as well as options for children of varying interests, needs and values.
Continue to grow senior programs and transportation.
I think if we can try to reduce the traffic
around town that would be good as well.
10/29/2019 1:47 PM
7 Preserve current small town atmosphere.
Maintain current open areas.
10/29/2019 11:38 AM
8 I will be long gone from the area before then as it will be grid lock and too over crowded 10/29/2019 11:29 AM
9 a safe and somewhat rural town with room to move and a place to park 10/29/2019 11:05 AM
10 I attended the Happy City kickoff event. The city in a city concept is of concern to me. The charm of T.O. Is the focus on the family, especially our children. Attempting to isolate the city by having all elements of life located within walking distance puts our life style at major risk. We don’t need increasing the have and have-not neighborhoods that would become even more insular.
My vision
for T.O. is a more neighborly, multi-cultural citizenry, with higher levels of participation and support for spiritual organizations.
Our citizens will be attracted to live here because of its family friendliness including the availability of affordable housing, lack of crime, excellent and accessible medical, facilities, excellent and accessible education, non-profit organization community engagement and support, CRPD opportunities for all generations with offerings for various interests, changes to modes of travel to optimize the use of single use private vehicles and other modes of travel. (e.g. Do we encourage car pooling in getting kids to school?) More activities will
focus on individual neighborhoods such that neighbors engage with neighbors rather than the entire SoCal region. For example, do we really want children and their families traveling all weekend to participate in “traveling teams”. Our children appear to be over scheduled and organized by today’s parents resulting in a lack of opportunity to create their own relationships, creativity, and leadership skills. Our future will be defined by today and tomorrow’s youth. The Foundation of life skills, values, and morality that we provide them will define our future. Ultimately Vision 2045 should provide the foundational infrastructure for the T.O. of tomorrow. 10/29/2019 9:00 AM
11 Ecologically sustainable transportation. Variable priced cultural events. Safe schools and well educated children.
10/29/2019 8:33 AM
12 Grass roots community leaders that aren’t funded by mega churches and donors from out of state; More flashing yellow lights; Increases in housing must equal better/wider roads, especially by Albertson’s on Reino; Outdoor/roof-top seating with shade; More mom and pop restaurants - not just chains; Outdoor movies; More ev parking and charging ports; More solar covered parking lots; Round a bouts/ traffic circles, not stops.
10/29/2019 8:30 AM
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TO2045 Community Survey #1
13 i'd like to see TO continue to become more bike friendly, and to become more pedestrian friendly -- for example, many crosswalks prevent you from walking from one side of the street to the other... instead of going straight across, you have to cross the intersection 3 times (for example, if you wanted to walk from Sprouts on Hillcrest to the Oaks Mall) 10/29/2019 7:41 AM
14 NOT to make this Woodland Hills , or Santa Monica .. stop low income building ; stop stop stop ruining our beautiful open lands
10/29/2019 7:36 AM
15 More jobs and big buildings
10/28/2019 11:46 PM
16 Being unable to go back in time, keep what we have without destroying in the name of growth. 10/28/2019 10:33 PM
17 I would like to see a unified, updated community that has a strong desire to build each other up. I would like to see businesses and community groups help each other without trying to knock others out.
I would like to see the church communities and businesses alike rally together, and focus efforts locally to help folk in transitional moments get further along 10/28/2019 9:15 PM
18 Stay the same, don’t build anymore.
10/28/2019 9:12 PM
19 Keep almost everything the same but create some smart affordable housing options; it may increase the population somewhat and add to the congestion but there is declining enrollment in the public school district
10/28/2019 7:47 PM
20 One in which families can afford to live and work, where schools are provided for and excessive development is restricted. The open spaces throughout and around the city are worth more than anything, and some older spaces like the Janss Mall and some of the empty warehouses in NP could be repurposed in a creative way.
10/28/2019 7:24 PM
21 Encourage biotech and engineering companies to located and grow in Thousand Oaks, have a mixed use of apartments, condos, townhomes and single homes. Encourage starter homes.
Encourage diversity of groceries and restaurants.
10/28/2019 7:18 PM
22 Remain quiet and peaceful. Add more trees and beautiful surroundings. 10/28/2019 5:39 PM
23 Keeping open spaces
10/28/2019 4:51 PM
24 Keep the benefits we have today, such as education, cultural events, parks. 10/28/2019 3:52 PM
25 maintain semi rural environment
accepting of cultural differences
10/28/2019 3:17 PM
26 I understand this is a HUGE challenge, but a mix of open surrounding open space and affordable housing so families can stay together.
10/28/2019 2:51 PM
27 Bleak. I will most likely be have moved some where else. 10/28/2019 1:28 PM
28 Continue to put community first and focus on more jobs and housing supply.
10/28/2019 12:40 PM
29 Walkable, mom and pop shops, safe, homeless under control, keep the bubble!!! 10/28/2019 11:58 AM
30 T.O. would be one of the more less dense communities. We'd still have all of our open space and best roads, safety, etc. If this means cutbacks in non-vital areas (arts, etc.), so be it IF something has to go.
10/28/2019 11:57 AM
31 A prettier updated Thousand Oaks. Keep the open space! 10/28/2019 11:53 AM
32 I would definitely like to see a more vibrant downtown area without sacrificing our open space or increasing traffic congestion.
10/28/2019 11:18 AM
33 Slightly more tech and internet and infrastructure oriented. Maintain our commitment to nature and open space. And no homeless people or pan handlers allowed. 10/28/2019 10:56 AM
34 Just like it is now, with just a few improvements in the downtown area, which you are already working on. I don't know what the solution is for low cost housing - that's a tough one. 10/28/2019 9:58 AM
35 A safe, family friendly, thriving community. I’d like to see the city attract more top employers in the area. Modern style living/communities and parks ala OC Great Park. And invest in its education system more to boost school ratings.
10/28/2019 9:29 AM
36 Much like it is now but with more affordable housing opportunities, a more racially and ethnically diverse populace and an even cleaner (carbon neutral) environment. 10/28/2019 9:03 AM
37 To maintain the open space and increase access and safe corridors for pedestrians and cyclists ( and our horses too).
Keep a local government that supports law enforcement and our educators 10/28/2019 8:24 AM
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TO2045 Community Survey #1
38 Technological advances.
Downtown corridor with vibrant area.
Continued growth of the arts.
Reasoned growth and upkeep.
10/28/2019 8:07 AM
39 kindness, charity, non-smoking
10/28/2019 7:40 AM
40 Absolutely no one on the streets sleeping, must have more resources either here or in nearby communities.
Less traffic if possible.
Less expensive housing.
10/28/2019 7:30 AM
41 To be a good community where the resources are taken care of, to keep it as one of the safest cities in California and the US
10/28/2019 7:19 AM
42 It would be nice to see the area expand to include a younger generation of family. With that, new type of housing, business and culture, while keeping the foundation of open space (hiking, biking, community and family) concept.
10/28/2019 7:12 AM
43 I would like to see more community events for families to go to together. 10/27/2019 11:28 PM
44 A more diverse community with more to do locally. I’d like Thousand Oaks to retain its natural beauty.
10/27/2019 9:40 PM
45 An appreciation for the outdoors,
parks, bike paths, double wide sidewalks , promotion of the open Space.
10/27/2019 8:35 PM
46 Preserve open space
10/27/2019 6:58 PM
47 As close to 10 years ago as possible!
10/27/2019 6:28 PM
48 I'd like to see a multicultural community where people of all ages enjoy time together at local businesses and public spaces.
10/27/2019 3:30 PM
49 Mixed demographics, age, race. things to do for younger people so they do not leave as soon as they are old enough. Active 'downtown' but also better transport - less insular and rich
10/27/2019 2:53 PM
50 I’d like to see a city that’s more invested in their youth. It’s a beautiful city and it’s safe and there are a lot of businesses, but sooner or later it will be a retirement home. It needs to be more accessible and appeal to people who work here.
10/27/2019 2:48 PM
51 Children aren't in a constant state of terror from being murdered in school via gun violence or hate crimes
10/27/2019 1:18 PM
52 A community that protects open space and parks, because it is healthy for everyone to destress outdoors.
A community that both young and old people can afford to live in.
One that has different
methods of travel within our local area (light rail on the freeway, trolleys on TO Blvd, more buses) 10/27/2019 12:35 PM
53 trendsetter for global repair, significant use of materials, buildings, infrastructure that repairs environment
10/27/2019 11:41 AM
54 I’d like to see Thousand Oaks grow while still remaining a peaceful sort of town. I’d like to see it become a place that cherishes it’s sense of community and encourages local businesses over the big brands. I’d like us to be welcoming and accepting, and to have a set of enriching local traditions that we can share within our community and with all who want to join it, regardless oh who they are.
10/27/2019 10:49 AM
55 A vibrant downtown corridor
Retain the suburban/rural feel of the city
Continue to limit building
height
Prevent homogenization of housing, leave an eclectic mix of old and new, large and small, so that people can find what fits them best (no pink houses though) 10/27/2019 10:04 AM
56 I would like Thousand Oaks to strike a balance between maintaining the open spaces and overall neighborhood feel that everyone has come to love with having entertainment or nightlife and a variety of mom and pop shops.
TO should continue to appeal to high skilled job businesses (biotech, etc.).
I don’t believe we have to be a 100% bedroom community to keep the positive aspects of TO.
We need to appeal to younger generations as well otherwise our community will not be sustainable in the long term.
Schools will close, etc.
10/27/2019 9:29 AM
57 SLOW growth, do not re zone the open space, do not allow large apartment and commercial bulidings ,,The community does
need more conjestion
10/27/2019 6:49 AM
58 I would hope to see a community that is inclusive and embraces diversity.
A community that still
preserves our open space but can see it’s way clear to make room for affordable housing.
A
community that doesn’t forget it's history and that cares about all of it's citizens. 10/26/2019 10:12 PM
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TO2045 Community Survey #1
59 I'd like to see more art and theater, more creative arts. Opportunities for good paying jobs, and housing that regular people can afford.
More diversity in the population. Continued open space
opportunities for hiking and enjoying.
10/26/2019 8:41 PM
60 Diverse, open minded full of thriving businesses and continued great school systems. Making money to support local programs
10/26/2019 8:20 PM
61 Better traffic light timing/more flashing yellow arrows for left turns, more independently owned
restaurants-less chain/corporate owned restaurants to give our city proper representation of small town feel/ethnic diverse foods, continue supporting young families and children with strong parks and recs and schools,
continued improvements on aging schools, continued support for adult education, cleaner (better landscaped) freeways. continue to make open space a priority, limit building especially dense rural development.
Make live theater at the civic arts plaza more
affordable to residents/families especially when most productions I attend are poorly attended.
Why not sell 1/2 price tickets to families in need or last minute deals. 10/26/2019 6:56 PM
62 Keep open spaces intact, keep improving upon schooling, only allow essential to the city development
10/26/2019 6:01 PM
63 A community working toward leading the region in sustainability. A community who is diverse, young and old.
A mix of housing types that are new, good quality and allow for a sustainable population age. Increase in access to open spaces, maximize access to national park and create camping opportunities in our local mountains. A community which the state looks to for leadership in long term financial, socio-economic and environmental sustainability. 10/26/2019 5:44 PM
64 To keep it’s low crime, peaceful image while becoming an financially attractive community for young families to set down roots.
10/26/2019 4:59 PM
65 More inclusive
10/26/2019 3:20 PM
66 Green, great hiking, safety, and a local city center. Old time history preserved. 10/26/2019 2:56 PM
67 Similar to now - lots of space, trails, plenty of parking, good neighbors and schools 10/26/2019 2:27 PM
68 The same community we have right now. It’s really a great place to live just the way it is. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.
10/26/2019 2:25 PM
69 I don't want to lose any of our open space. I don't want wall to wall buildings/houses. I don't want to lose the horse properties or heritage oak trees. I love our libraries and parks--even more parks would be wonderful. I do not want to increase our population. I have seen much change since 1970, and most of it I support. I do not support the new formula the City Council came up with regarding available lots and number of houses to be built. The total disregard for the original survey and plan developed by the citizens initially really upset me and made me wonder if we have too many City Council members who were from the building department and chummy with developers. I do not support the exemptions to height and density recently approved. 10/26/2019 1:25 PM
70 Small to moderate growth.
10/26/2019 1:13 PM
71 I realize Thousand Oaks will never be the way it was when I was growing up but let’s know when to stop and not build up with multi level buildings. Traffic out of control and no one knowing their neighbors.
10/26/2019 12:49 PM
72 Stay the way it is.
10/26/2019 11:10 AM
73 Would lime to see a friendly, tolerant community that does not hold people in contempt for differing views.
10/26/2019 9:16 AM
74 Smart development
10/26/2019 8:32 AM
75 Thousand Oaks, of the future, can similar to Pasadena attractive for high quality living, high quality schools, high quality arts, high quality shopping and high quality dining with a walking district (similar to Colorado St) from TOCAP to The Oaks Mall.
10/26/2019 8:15 AM
76 Friendly, innovative, smart planners, conservation minded. lots of open space that serves seniors
as well as slow growth.
We do not want to overdevelop.
10/26/2019 8:03 AM
77 A beautiful safe city that focuses on keeping the history of Thousand Oaks as an agricultural community alive. Controlled building and focus on open spaces. 10/26/2019 7:26 AM
78 Keep our open spaces.
10/26/2019 7:18 AM
79 A vision for 2045 Thousand Oaks is a community with thriving small businesses, safe, clean and diverse community.
10/26/2019 6:17 AM
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TO2045 Community Survey #1
80 Genuine local planning free of delphi
10/26/2019 1:08 AM
81 More community. Get to know your neighbors.
10/25/2019 10:14 PM
82 Safe community for families and diverse population.
Services which support and reflect aspirations
of citizens.
Rebuilt or reinforced Infrastructure.
10/25/2019 10:14 PM
83 A Downtown, more cool places like Tarantula Hill, and keeping the Rams 10/25/2019 9:40 PM
84 More interconnecting horse trails, more dog parks
10/25/2019 8:30 PM
85 An age friendly city that is supportive to both senior and young demographics with much better transportation, with population capped at the current population level (around 130,000).
Less
congestion on TO Blvd
10/25/2019 8:09 PM
86 Age friendly community. A place where young successful people can live with people who have been here for years
10/25/2019 8:06 PM
87 More diversity, racially and economically in open space with lots of oak trees 10/25/2019 8:00 PM
88 Continue the way it is.
Control growth which will bring mire traffic
10/25/2019 7:58 PM
89 Keep it the way it is—semi rural.
10/25/2019 7:43 PM
90 I will be too old to care, but I hope it is quaint, remains one the safest cities in the country, and is diverse and accepting of all ethnicities, etc.
10/25/2019 7:40 PM
91 A safe community that has made adjustments to save lives in a high risk fire zone. 10/25/2019 7:10 PM
92 My dream vision is that the city stays much the same! I want nature, oaks and horses. I want to continue to see the hills as I drive down Thousand Oaks Blvd. I don’t want to be stuck in traffic driving through town. We only have 3 roads to get through town Hillcrest,TO Blvd and 101 and they are already getting congested. It’s ridiculous to expect people to not drive, most of us work out of town. My husband rides his bike,out of town, and I drive to a different city for work. That’s what people need to do. Don’t give our city to Thousand Oaks Blvd developers! Keep buildings low
height and low density. You know the fact is that the majority of residents want very little growth - no matter how you try to lead them they want there home to stay peaceful. Most of us came here to get away from a city!
10/25/2019 6:54 PM
93 Continue with the small town feel. More family entertainment like bowling, roller rink, etc. fill available apartments and office buildings before building new ones. Fix homeless issue with shelter
10/25/2019 6:50 PM
94 Affordable housing for young families, first responders/teachers/nurses as well as the working poor.
Continue with a first class library that addresses the needs of all patrons and stakeholders, not simply those using digital technology.
10/25/2019 6:36 PM
95 Safe, community spirit, still not congested
10/25/2019 6:08 PM
96 A place where in every neighborhood there is a place to walk for coffee, a beer, ice cream and/or groceries. I want a vegan donut place near me.
10/25/2019 5:53 PM
97 I would like to see better flow through the city.
Not installing adequate street lights on Hillcrest,
between Hodencamp and the 23 Freeway but installing a crosswalk with flashing lights for the new brewery in-town shows a lack of regard for the residents. I would like to see the city council and planners care about its residents and developments within the city. I would like to see the city council not have ties with those who are awarded jobs or licenses.
I would like the city to care
more about the people and flow than their own pocket-books. 10/25/2019 5:38 PM
98 More affordable housing, a sane, responsive and compassionate plan to deal with homelessness, more diversity, great schools, green committment
10/25/2019 5:26 PM
99 Much the same but with a lively walkable community developed along the TO Blvd with mixed use projects.
A massively ubiquitous transportation system that is so convenient that you think twice before driving around town.
- A diverse population that is not afraid to accept people of various cultures and backgrounds.
- My hope is that we will be a Faith filled community.
10/25/2019 5:25 PM
100
TO should embrace: 1) Affordable housing, 2) local business development, 3) green transportation. The TO Master Plan, while a great document, cannot exist in a vacuum. We have to look to the future. TO needs a younger generation to come in, (affordable housing); they can work at or will start local businesses; and to get to their job, they will use a green/renewable transportation system.
10/25/2019 5:17 PM
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101
Much younger demographic
10/25/2019 5:10 PM
102
The community I would love to see in the future is family oriented and diverse with all levels of socioeconomic families having the ability to thrive in every sense.
A peaceful, tolerant, and kind
place for our children to feel safe and loved.
We have so many of these wonderful building blocks
of society here in our City.
There is so much to be grateful for in our lovely City.
But the reality is in
looking forward though, if
we don't address the needs of our current generation of young to middle age families now, who are wanting and working to live and enjoy their home town and be contributors to it, and if they don't have the opportunity to equally experience all of the wonderful cultural strengths of it, we will be cheating our children's children, of the hope and the tools to have
the ability of seeing the bigger picture of life, and how to make the world a better place. 10/25/2019 4:38 PM
103
Would like stores at Oaks Mall and more parking.
Stay with slow growth.
No high rise building that
blocks views of mountains.
Retain as many parks as possible and equestrian trails. 10/25/2019 4:37 PM
104
Clean, safe and with places to eat and shop that are accessible to all range of incomes. Encourage more independent restaurants and stores instead of chains. 10/25/2019 4:12 PM
105
My vision for 2045 would be the same that my parents had when they moved here in 1972 - keep it beautiful and simple and community driven.
It's nothing like it was back then, too crowded now.
But, it's maintained it's beauty.
We need to NOT have any buildings taller than 7 floors.
It will mare
the landscape of TO blvd and all it's surroundings.
Highrises and any unplanned large growth in
and around that isn't well planned will only bring trouble and issues. 10/25/2019 4:07 PM
106
I would like to see semi-rural atmosphere, nature, clean air, ease in driving around town and parking, low profile buildings, big set-backs of buildings, ridge line preservation, open space and oak trees, revitalized commercial buildings rather than MORE commercial buildings. Our General Plan has worked very well; that is why people move here and stay. 10/25/2019 4:04 PM
107
Safe population control
10/25/2019 3:52 PM
108
Maintain the small-town feel while making Thousand Oaks a desirable place to live and open/operate businesses. Not interested in seeing the boulevard developed into attraction status. 10/25/2019 3:41 PM
109
I’d like to see one or two general downtown areas that won’t immediately be blocked by an older, white, conservative voting majority.
10/25/2019 3:39 PM
110
more public space
10/25/2019 3:35 PM
111
A stable rural community that is not over developed with plenty of open space and ridge lines.
Clean air and open roads.
10/25/2019 3:05 PM
112
More parks, more outdoor planning, more open space preservation. NO more buildings, 1/2 the commercial offices are vacant as it is. Re-purpose / rebuild older existing buildings foot prints, use what is here and give it a facelift, theirs no need to encroach on dedicated open space. Most importantly, NO buildings over 3 stories high.
10/25/2019 2:56 PM
113
I envision the Janss Marketplace being repurposed into the residential Janss Village.
The Village,
built around a lovely park, consists of duplex, triplex and fourplex homes -- nothing over 2 stories.
Green technology runs the utilities.
Part of the Village consists of efficiency flats with a shared kitchen.
All homes utilize universal design to accommodate individuals with physical challenges, as well as older adults and families with young children. Wide, shady, well-lit sidewalks invite residents to enjoy the walkability of their neighborhood.
The Janss Village is a beautiful living
environment, designed to promote interaction among residents.
For those who need public
transportation, bus stops are close to home.
Please note that I fully appreciate the enormous
contributions of the Janss family to the history and growth of Thousand Oaks, but I also respectfully question if the huge, commercial space on Moorpark continues to be the best use of that property as we plan for the future.
10/25/2019 1:23 PM
114
Businesses in all the empty spaces in the oaks and janss. More places for entertainment both family friend and adult only. More inclusiveness from the town. And I’m white btw. 10/25/2019 12:50 PM
115
I would like to see a younger demographic.
More things to do.
10/25/2019 12:03 PM
116
Unfortunately, despite efforts, I just see another overpopulated, overbuilt city, clogged with traffic surrounded by nice open space and parks - if we can keep the latter two. 10/25/2019 11:32 AM
117
Open spaces, not over built.
The public art to be 21st century high quality work chosen by professional.
10/24/2019 11:38 PM
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118
A happy, well balanced community, representing all ages, with regional dominance for activities, amenities, and strong employment base.
10/24/2019 8:31 PM
119
I’m hoping it still retains some of the rustic charm and accessible nature in the future. It would be a shame to loose what makes this area so special. It’s so nice to have fresh air and places to hike out here. It would be nice if more oaks were planted along TO Blvd and greenery to make the city more picturesque.
It seems like half of The Oaks mall is empty and yet trees are being cut down to put more retail stores around town. How many massage parlors do we really need out here? 10/24/2019 5:36 PM
120
Retain the unique community culture with access to arts and music, open space, good schools. 10/24/2019 4:23 PM
121
Maintain the small town feel but offer a stream-lined process for developers & home owners to get building plans approved expeditiously.
10/24/2019 3:57 PM
122
With allowances for technology changes in everything from electronics to transportation, I like it just the way it is.
10/24/2019 3:42 PM
123
Like it as it is now.
Very conservative with building profiles not over 3 stories.
Trees need to be
protected at all costs.
10/24/2019 3:40 PM
124
I would love to see a community wear 'walkability' was abundant in Thousand Oaks on the blvd.
It
would be nice to be able to walk, shop, and eat rather than driving outside Thousand Oaks to have that experience.
I would like to see the city embrass 'small businesses' as well as 'large businesses'.
Larger businesses will become an anchor for the community. 10/24/2019 2:28 PM
125
More diversity of people (ages, faiths, ethnicities...) 10/24/2019 10:28 AM
126
I would like to see a community that maintains its open space and opens up more locally-owned shops and restaurants rather than large chains. I would also like to see more town homes and condos that are affordable for the people who work in the area. 10/23/2019 3:59 PM
127
I'd like to maintain the integrity of what I wrote that makes T.O. unique and special.
However,
adding to staying on top of all technological advances, in every area. 10/23/2019 3:24 PM
128
I would like to see open spaces remain open.
More bicycle lanes, and finish the ones that were
started (there is no bike lane crossing the 101 at Ventu Park heading towards Lynn, which makes for a dangerous ride).
10/23/2019 3:18 PM
129
Hopefully evolving in all the right ways
10/23/2019 3:10 PM
130
A community surrounded by open space with higher density housing including multi-use spaces (housing above businesses)
which is pedestrian and bicycle friendly with more public transportation and green spaces throughout the city. Also a city that has affordable cultural activities.
10/23/2019 2:53 PM
131
Diverse, accessible, and more friendly to alternative transportation (bus, rail, cycling). 10/23/2019 1:29 PM
132
If Andy Fox(I know he’s no longer on City Council) Al Adam, McCoy and Engler and TO Blvd property owners, developers and realtors have their way - I see a post apocalyptic nightmare. If the actual residents visions are respected I see no drastic changes. I see a city that will slowly develop like it has for many years with low profile buildings, semi-rural neighborhoods, horses, trails, old and new oaks, little traffic and clean air. 10/23/2019 11:53 AM
133
I would like to see a sustainable community that still has a semi-rural character.
It will have
mastered the implementation of successful public transportation, environmentally friendly construction,
and Drought-tolerant landscaping.
Ridge tops will remain free of development, while
Open Space will be available with hiking, equestrian and mountain Bicycle trails and wildlife corridor connectivity between the various units.
The urban canopy will also offer wildlife habitat.
There will be more bicycle lanes on public roads.
Our city, through it’s administrative staff and
elected officials,
will support responsible growth and protect our oak trees.
There will be many
places to enjoy both the visual and performing arts, mon & pop businesses including restaurants, and we will continue to have have excellent public schools and libraries. 10/23/2019 12:17 AM
134
Keeping open space and slow growth to avoid overpopulation, congestion, and too much noise. 10/22/2019 11:39 PM
135
Lots more trees planted, for CO2 capture, more shade, and to replace those being lost here due to global warming fires, and those being removed all over the world.
It's too hot here, and shade
trees would help.
Every street corner needs an oak tree.
Stick to the original general plan.
It has
served us well.
10/22/2019 11:21 PM
136
A balanced open spaces and community spaces
10/22/2019 7:17 PM
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137
one which pays a modicum of attention to the wishes and well being of the residential occupants rather than concentrating on the
members of the chamber of commerce and the commercial sector almost exclusively
10/22/2019 1:11 PM
138
Maintain open space for walking and hiking, bring in business and create housing near businesses/corporation, good public transportation including biking options. 10/22/2019 11:15 AM
139
One that fits the description set forth in the original General Plan. Green, beautiful, warm and welcoming!
10/21/2019 11:52 PM
140
Limited growth. Retain the essence of what Thousand Oaks was and still is. Admit that California is and will probably continue to be in a drought and deal with it. There is limited water and we cannot continue to push for more people to live here. Additionally, if steps aren't taken to limit growth, Thousand Oaks will be no different than other suburbs of Los Angeles, all with the same restaurants and stores. Thousand Oaks has had its own personality for many years. Don't let it blend into the San Fernando Valley. Look what happened to them. Don't let it happen to us. 10/21/2019 9:01 PM
141
T.O. of the 1970s.
10/21/2019 8:30 PM
142
Keep the old city plan and don’t build up TO Blvd.
Protect and plant trees (Oaks)
My greatest hope
is that we don’t become Orange County.
I’ve been here since 1972, I hope to stay.
10/21/2019 8:09 PM
143
In 2045 I would like to see Thousand Oaks that has really preserved what it claims to value: semi- rural atmosphere, nature, clean air, ease in driving around town and parking, low profile buildings, big set-backs, open space and oak trees. I would like it to continue to be a sanctuary from the congestion that continues to grow around us. I would like to see a city that has not conformed to the trends of these times, the pressures of greedy developers and compromised city council members. Our General Plan has worked very well; that is why people move here and stay. 10/21/2019 7:24 PM
144
I would love to see Thousand Oaks set an example for sustainability, more solar panels (like the CPRD put over their parking lots) rainwater containment, gray water use. Affordable housing for seniors and low income. Well planned growth that serves the community and not special interests.
Keeping our green belts and parks thriving, keeping Thousand Oaks green and clean 10/21/2019 8:48 AM
145
Vibrant business community, quality housing for all price points, sufficient affordable housing for entry-level workers, disabled and seniors. Maintain open spaces and parks. High-quality schools.
Arts, athletics and sports offerings
10/20/2019 7:30 AM
146
Won't care any more
10/19/2019 1:48 PM
147
A reinvigorated area for nightlife that is still safe.
Better arts engagement throughout the
community and region.
Partnerships with colleges and universities.
10/19/2019 11:33 AM
148
A leader in family, community and tolerance for the nation. A leader in health and neighborhood aesthetics for the nation and the rest of the state. Earning back our position as one of the safest and most desirable places to live while slowly growing up, welcoming new residents, advancing our public transit and having a firm plan with homelessness and how to maintain the safety of our streets as well as the dignity of a population that doesn't seem to be going anywhere 10/18/2019 2:40 PM
149
Walkability everywhere, younger, hype district, tech companies, people riding birds, and bikes
station.
10/18/2019 12:03 PM
150
A Safe community with lots of open space and a small town Mayberry kind of feel like it was when we first moved here.
10/17/2019 4:53 PM
151
Better public transportation
10/17/2019 4:46 PM
152
Continuing to evolve the way it has, with a fantastic melting-pot nature. 10/17/2019 12:46 PM
153
I’d like to see a busy and dense business center, adjacent to a walkable shopping district with apartments on top of shops, linked by a rapid bus system that perhaps follows the 101 from Camarillo station to Warner Center.
10/17/2019 11:03 AM
154
A vibrant, exciting downtown scene full of non-chain restaurants, bars, and an alternative (not eating or drinking) nightlife scene. Affordable housing for those stuck in the "I can't move out because I dont make enough but I work/go to school in the area" 10/17/2019 10:56 AM
155
A continuation of the “small town” feeling that makes TO special. If any future development is allowed on TO Blvd, please keep in mind the issue of traffic. We don’t want TO Blvd to look like Ventura Blvd in the San Fernando Valley. Look at alternative areas off the Blvd to increase multi- use development. Look a bit north and/or west so as to not over develop already crowded areas. 10/17/2019 8:14 AM
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I would like to see a community that embraces and celebrates diversity in a variety of forms -- its people, its economy, its housing stock, its transportation modes. I'd like a downtown core that provides a sense of place and that I can get to without driving and parking. I'd like a community that fosters an entrepreneurial culture and offers jobs and economic opportunities to all its residents that offer a path into the middle class.
10/16/2019 2:24 PM
157
A safe, peaceful, yet vibrant community that attracts more families as well as businesses into the city. City should be connected to other major cities via reliable public transit(s). 10/16/2019 1:49 PM
158
Free internet in the city. Gathering public spaces that are not retail-based, like city parks in NYC. A dedicated Adult Education center built in the library complex. Many more trees to combat air pollution.
10/16/2019 12:14 PM
159
More diverse, more aprochable, keeping green, more things for kids to do 10/16/2019 12:01 PM
160
A safe, quiet, beautiful community. Lots of open space and protected lands. Small retail footprint. If needed build warehouses in Newbury Park business center. Future is online. Effective apartment buildings with plenty of parking. Set up infrastructure first. 10/16/2019 9:04 AM
161
I don't envy those of you who have to come up with a comprehensive 25 year plan for T.O., but they got it right in 1970, and hopefully you will going forward. My vision is that it continues to be a thoughtful city of minimal environmental impact. That the sense of community there is not lost, nor the sense of responsibility between neighbors and their collective responsibility to the city itself. It is home, and it must be respected.
10/16/2019 4:22 AM
162
It would be nice if much of it looked the same. Trees, parks, a feeling of community and safety as well as a place for everyone.
10/16/2019 12:05 AM
163
Largely as the City and neighborhoods are now, but with greater emphasis on preservation, sustainability and retaining the City's special "flavor" for all residents. 10/15/2019 10:30 PM
164
Clean, safe, well planned community
10/15/2019 9:45 PM
165
More than likely I’ll be dead in 2045, but I would like TO to be a safe, whole family community, meaning not just rich young people, but parents with their kids and seniors all together. 10/15/2019 6:47 PM
166
Green infrastructure, adequate public transit, affordable housing, smart city, free wifi, preserved and protected open space, connected to LA and West County via improved public transit options 10/15/2019 5:19 PM
167
Younger families and generations able to afford to live and work in Thousand Oaks. More activities available for youth and teens to keep them productive and active. LA Rams ongoing involvement in community. Less traffic on city streets as well as freeways. More open space and emphasis on outdoor/physical health and living an active lifestyle. Cultural recognition, embracing other cultures and races, and supporting migrant families. Thousand Oaks has the potential to lead the nation by example, and I believe that as a community we can come together and embrace differences, embrace nature, embrace physical and mental health, and raise a new generation of societal contributors is a positive, admirable, and affordable way. 10/15/2019 3:39 PM
168
No overcrowding, maintaining parks and open space.
10/15/2019 3:27 PM
169
More affordable housing, fewer "burger shops, Asian Buffets, small retail shops 10/15/2019 1:58 PM
170
I Don't really know, But I hope that I'm around long enough to find out 10/15/2019 1:08 PM
171
When we go elsewhere to shop or vacation we are always impressed with the layout of places like Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo.