Concise Council Meeting Gives Way to Heartfelt Holiday spirit

City council reconvened late Tuesday, November 16th for a very brief affair, amongst the shortest mayor Diane McCall said to have recalled. Following roll call and approval of the agenda, Richard Torres was called upon for public comments. Mr. Torres explained to the council how he had been raised in Fillmore, but has just recently returned after being away from Fillmore for over 20 years. He went on to clarify that he came on behalf of his sister and brother, whom are longtime residents of Fillmore that have expressed to him concerns for the current proceedings surrounding Fillmore’s water and sewage protocols.

The only order of new business on the agenda was the review draft 2015 urban water management plan update. Such is not to be understated in any sense. The representative speaking on behalf of the water purveyor explained how if there are more than 3000 connections to the city’s water system, there must be a current adopted urban water management plan update in agreement with the state of California. Non-compliance does not mean outright fines or penalties, as elaborated, but rather a loss of eligibility on Fillmore’s behalf for state funding on water projects. The plan will be made available for viewing on the city website and hard copies are to be found in the city clerk’s office. Residents are encouraged to review the document and provide feedback before it is finalized. Being in the best interest of the city to update said plan, a motion was easily passed to set a public hearing date regarding the matter on December 13th. Water availability is, has been, and will continue to press and act as an imperative to Fillmore’s communal development. Acceding to the state of California and our local United Water Conservation District’s disposition regarding water management will allow for them as well as us to continue to fare well and keep billing rates low.

Mayor Pro Tem Carrie Broggie then followed up with a reminder about the next parks and recreation commission meeting, which will primarily focus on the ongoing discussion surrounding a possible dog park. The meeting will take place Monday, November 21st at 6:15p.m. at city hall.

Mayor Diane McCall proceeded to bring to our attention the Christmas tree lighting which is to take place December 3rd at 6:00pm in front of city hall. Councilman Manuel Minjares then thanked the staff of the Fillmore youth basketball league, whom are in search of coaches for 3rd and 4th grade boys’ team. Both male and female coaches are very much encouraged to apply. The annual sheriff’s toy drive is also underway, with drop off points at every sheriff’s station in Ventura County. Their toy drive has collaborated with the Fillmore toy giveaway, which the Fillmore fire department sponsors. Donations in the form of unwrapped toys or donations are much obliged. Your local fire station will also gladly accept donations as stated. With that, the meeting was adjourned and so in the spirit of thanksgiving and togetherness.