City council members, guests and a community audience heard Mayor Patti Walker declare September 21, 2009, as the International Day of Peace in the city of Fillmore.

At the opening of the regular board session, Tuesday, September 8, 2009, Mayor Walker read the proclamation, then presented it to Ms. Sarah Hansen And Ms. Orelia Herrera, Soroptomist Club President.

Ms. Herrera announced that the celebration is scheduled for September 20, with a rummage sale Saturday on the Sespe School lawn. Donations from the community for the event are still welcomed.

Technology
Matt Minkx, a representative of Granicus Systems explained that the company services cities with records management software including Simi, Moorpark, Oxnard, Ventura, and Santa Barbara. He used a media presentation for the city of Pismo Beach to highlight a few electronic storage capabilities, which provide video streaming services.

Minkx stated that streaming services provide video taped meeting information any where in the world. He went on to say that agenda jackets, staff reports, minutes, votes, or any public issue could be easily searched out by community members. ”We house and store all of your video for you.’ Minkx continued,” Plus, Granicus has many soft wear programs available. Media Manager, Minutes Maker, and Training System can be used by your City Council, Planning Commission, Fire Department and Police. Fire Chief Rigo Landeros indicated that the Granicus System would be a great tool for training 75 members of the department.

The initial investment for the newest technology system is $22,000. ”When member Gayle Washburn queried concern for new computer investment,” You can use the computers you have now.” Minkx replied. City councilmember Jamey Brooks moved for a vote to purchase the Granicus System, with a second from Council Member Laurie Hernandez. All members voted in favor.

Environment
Kevin McSweeney reminded the council of Measure I and the North Fillmore building plan, which the voters determined building 350 units instead of the 700 units planned, was more acceptable.

He stated that a consultant was needed for a new plan and environmental document. Council members discussed several aspects of using EIR reports. City Attorney Theodore Schneider stated, ”All options are on the table.” “We have to work within the legal parameters.” Mc Sweeney stated that 58 attempts had been made to include active community participation before voting had taken place for Measure I.

Mayor Walker pointed out to McSweeney and council members that more community outreach must be done to include community involvement. She pointed out that well known members from various organizations, clubs, sports, churches could lead the discussions. Mayor Walker also suggested that fliers be written in English and Spanish and posted.

Council member Jamey Brooks suggested community outreach meetings before hiring a consultant. Council member Steve Conaway proposed that a consultant be present at the community outreach meetings.

All council members voted to make the plan known to the public.

McSweeney agreed with the mayor’s public outreach program.

McSweeney mentioned that not all information from FEMA is final. He did state that North Fillmore (Old Telegraph Road and Sespe Creek) is now determined out of the flood plain, however, below telegraph road may still be considered in the flood zone. We’re waiting for FEMA’s report.

He stated that it has been determined an urban design, which is a common image people recognize with the city of Fillmore, is needed at the entrance of North Fillmore.

Other Issues
Fire Chief Rigo Landeros explained that the lease is ending on a Ford vehicle. Auto dealerships are no longer leasing vehicles, so one must be purchased.

Landeros stated that 12 letters were sent out to dealerships requesting bids for a replacement vehicle, with only 3 responding. William L. Morris responded with the best bid on a large Suburban with air conditioning. It will be used to cool down firefighters, as OSHA law requires. He requested community prayers for the lost firefighters in the Station Fire. The council approved the purchased.

Mark Lawler gave a media presentation of the Biosolids Facility and Electric Generation Project. “The project is the first in the nation,” he said,” and will be a model facility.””This is the largest installation in the world at this time.”Lawler went on to say that the facility takes up 2.7 acres, reduces truck traffic by 1 million miles per year and produces green energy using 9 moisture turbines. The council approved the contract. A grand opening is scheduled for October 2009.