FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Fillmore, CA – April 8, 2025 – The City of Fillmore is pleased to announce the appointment of Manuel
“Manny” Minjares as Assistant City Manager. Minjares will officially begin his new role on Monday, April 14, 2025.

Following a highly competitive recruitment process, involving three rounds of interviews and a strong field of well-
qualified candidates, Minjares emerged as the top choice for the position. He brings with him an extensive background in
planning, housing, and public administration, paired with a deep commitment to community engagement.

“Manny’s knowledge, experience, and strong local and County-wide connections will make us an even stronger team,” said City
Manager Erika Herrera-Terriquez. “His return to Fillmore — where he has both served on the City Council and worked in the
Planning Department — reflects his dedication to this community and his unique understanding of our needs and potential. I’m
thrilled to welcome him to the executive team and believe we will make a dynamic duo focused on serving our staff and
residents with integrity and vision. Together, we will also be able to continue implementing the City Council’s goals and
vision for Fillmore’s future.”

Minjares previously served in the City’s Planning Department and as a Fillmore City Council Member, and most recently worked
in the office of Ventura County Supervisor Kelly Long, where he strengthened relationships across the region and developed a
comprehensive understanding of county government operations.

“It is both an honor and a privilege to return to the city where I began my professional career more than 20 years ago. I
have been fortunate to have had the opportunity to raise my two oldest children in Fillmore, work for the city in the past,
serve two terms as an elected Council Member, and now, I am excited to take on the role of Assistant City Manager. I am
deeply grateful for the trust that Fillmore’s leadership has placed in me, and I look forward to bringing my extensive
experience, skills, and passion for public service to this new opportunity, said Minjares

The City of Fillmore looks forward to the leadership and experience Manny Minjares will bring to the Assistant City Manager
role and welcomes him back to City Hall.

For additional information, please contact Erika Herrera-Terriquez.

Please visit www.fillmoreca.gov and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, and LinkedIn.

Community Contact:

Name: Erika Herrera-Terriquez

Title: City Manager

Phone: 805-946-1712

Email: eherrera@fillmoreca.gov

 


 

On 04/02/2025, (S) Isaac Lopez, a 29-year-old Fillmore resident, was arrested for his involvement with a gang graffiti
vandalism which occurred near the Fillmore Bike Path west of A Street.

On 04/02/2025, at about 2:30 PM, diligent members of the community reported a graffiti vandalism occurring near the
Fillmore Bike Path west of A Street in Fillmore. Fillmore patrol personnel responded to the area and confirmed a vandalism
had occurred, and the vandalism was likely gang related. Detectives with the Fillmore Bureau of Investigation collaborated
with patrol personnel and diligent community members on the investigation and quickly identified the suspect.

At about 2:52 PM, detectives and patrol personnel located the suspect, Isaac Lopez a couple blocks from the graffiti
location and arrested him for Penal Code § 594(b)(2)(A) – [Graffiti Vandalism] and 186.22(d) – [Participation in a Criminal
Street Gang]. He was later booked at the Pre-Trial Detention Facility pending court proceedings.

The Fillmore Police Department encourages citizens to immediately report suspicious people and vehicles, and to promptly
report any graffiti they come across by calling our dispatch center at (805) 654-9511. Following a police investigation, all
graffiti should be immediately removed. Anyone with information pertaining to any crimes is urged to contact The Fillmore
Police Station at (805) 524-2233 or the listed detectives below. The reporting party may remain anonymous.

Graffiti vandalism is an eyesore that directly affects the quality of life in our communities. If left unchecked, graffiti
can decrease property values and lead to the deterioration of entire neighborhoods. Graffiti may also be the catalyst for
additional, more serious crimes affecting our communities. The removal of graffiti costs homeowners, business owners and
taxpayers thousands of dollars each year. The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office is committed to responding to public concerns
in a manner that builds confidence in our agency and strengthens relationships to empower businesses and residents to be the
eyes and ears of the community.

Graffiti Removal

The City of Fillmore removes all graffiti in public areas by either painting over it or by using a power washer, depending
upon the location of the graffiti. Residents are encouraged to call the city graffiti hotline at (805) 524-1500, prompt
number 4, then 3. Additionally, private property owners are encouraged to help combat vandalism by removing any graffiti
visible on their properties.

The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank members of the public for their on-going support and due diligence
in providing information to assist our agency in solving crimes. We are better at what we do because of our community
partnerships. Join us in the fight on crime by following us on “X” @fillmoresheriff, Facebook, Instagram @VCSHERIFF and
@FILLMOREPD, and with Nixle by texting your zip code to 888777 to receive local law enforcement and public safety alerts and
advisories.

Prepared by: Sergeant Jarrod Foote

News Release Date: 04/03/2025

Approved by: Captain Eduardo Malagon

Booking Photo Release: NO

 


 
Local realtor Cindy Diaz-Telly (left) received a Fair Housing Proclamation from City Council Member Christina Villaseñor at Tuesday night’s council meeting.
Local realtor Cindy Diaz-Telly (left) received a Fair Housing Proclamation from City Council Member Christina Villaseñor at Tuesday night’s council meeting.
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CITY OF FILLMORE CITY COUNCIL AND SUCCESSOR AGENCY REGULAR MEETING TUESDAY, APRIL 8, 2025, 6:30 PM CITY HALL
AGENDA

1. CALL TO ORDER

2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

3. ROLL CALL

4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

5. PRESENTATIONS

5.A FAIR HOUSING PROCLAMATION

5.B SEWER ENTERPRISE PRESENTATION

5.C PRESENTATION REGARDING STREET VENDORS IN THE CITY

6. PUBLIC COMMENTS

7. CITY COUNCIL REPORTS, RECOMMENDATIONS, AND COMMENTS

8. CONSENT CALENDAR

RECOMMENDATION FOR ITEM 8A. IS TO APPROVED BY VOICE VOTE.

8.A CITY OF FILLMORE WARRANT REGISTER-APRIL 8, 2025 CITY OF FILLMORE WARRANT REGISTER-APRIL 8, 2025.PDF

9. NEW BUSINESS

9.A - Council provided guidance to staff to bring the item back with additional information pertaining to cost associated
with contracting this function, fiscal impact on potential property tax reduction. 5-0

9.D passed 5-0 with edits under the environmental section of the draft platform. To not attend the League of Cities April
23-25 legislative meeting this year, and to form a standing committee. Mayor Pro Tem Albert Mendez and Council Member Carrie
Broggie were nominated to be the two council members for this standing committee.

9.B to 9.H passed 5-0- excluding 9.D

9.A DISCUSSION OF WHETHER TO ADOPT A MILLS ACT PROPERTY TAX PROGRAM WITHIN THE CITY OF FILLMORE

RECOMMENDATION Staff seeks direction from the City Council regarding whether to adopt a Mills Act Property Tax Abatement
Program within the City of Fillmore.

DISCUSSION OF MILLS ACT SR.PDF

9.B CITY COUNCIL DISCUSSION OF REORGANIZING THE CITY COUNCIL AGENDA

RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends that the City Council discuss this item and provide direction. If the direction of the City
Council is to revise the agenda, staff recommends that the City Council authorize the Mayor to sign a resolution authorizing
the update to the agenda.

SR REORDERING ITEMS ON AGENDA.PDF

9.C CONSIDERATION OF MULTI-YEAR INVESTMENT IN HOUSING TRUST FUND VENTURA COUNTY (HTFVC)

RECOMMENDATION Staff seeks direction from the City Council on whether to include a contribution to HTFVC in the upcoming
budget cycle for the FY 2025-2026.

HTFVC CONSIDERATION OF FUNDING SR.PDF

9.D CONSIDERATION AND DISCUSSION OF THE CITY OF FILLMORE 2025 LEGISLATIVE PLATFORM

LEGISLATIVE PLATFORM 2025 SR.PDF

RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends that the City Council discuss the draft 2025 Legislative Platform and provide direction to
staff on the following: 1. Whether any changes are needed from the 2021 Legislative Platform; 2. Whether to authorize City
Council Standing and/or Ad Hoc Committees to review legislation to make recommendations to the City Council when an item is
not addressed by the Legislative Platform; and 3. Whether to participate in the annual League of California Cities City
Leaders’ Summit and, if so, discuss who will attend.

9.E APPROVAL OF A STAGING AREA LICENSE AGREEMENT WITH TORO ENTERPRISES, INC.

SR STAGING AGREEMENT WITH TORO.PDF

RECOMMENDATION That the City Council authorize the City Manager to execute a License Agreement with Toro Enterprises, Inc.
(Toro) to allow the use of the City’s property at the southerly terminus of C Street for staging of materials and a rubber
binder plant for construction of the City’s Pavement Preservation Project, Spec No. 23-03.

9.F BOND EXONERATION TRACT NOS. 5520-2 AND 5520-3 SR BOND EXTONERATION TRACT 5520-2 AND-3.PDF

RECOMMENDATION That the City Council accept a public improvement bond for survey monumentation for Tract Nos. 5520-2 and
5520-3 and authorize the exoneration of public improvement Bond Nos. PB01743800091 and PB01743800092 for streets and
landscaping.

RECOMMENDATION That the City Council accept a public improvement bond for survey monumentation for Tract Nos. 5520-2 and
5520-3 and authorize the exoneration of public improvement Bond Nos. PB01743800091 and PB01743800092 for streets and
landscaping.

9.G FILING OF NOTICE OF COMPLETION FOR THE FILLMORE BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB BUILDING CEILING REPAIR PROJECT

RECOMMENDATION That the City Council: 1. Accept the services provided for the Fillmore Boys and Girls Club Building Project
(“Project”), performed by Wyatt Trapp, Inc. (“Contractor”); 2. Authorize staff to file the attached Notice of Completion;
and 3. Authorize the final payment to the contractors of owed retention and Release on Contract pending clearance of the 30-
day lien period.

SR - NOTICE OF COMPLETION FOR BOYS & GIRLS CLUB CEILING PROJECT - FINAL.PDF

9.H FILING OF NOTICE OF COMPLETION FOR THE FILLMORE BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB BUILDING DOOR REPLACEMENT PROJECT

RECOMMENDATION That the City Council: 1. Accept the services provided for the Fillmore Boys and Girls Club Building Door
Replacement Project (“Project”), performed by Wyatt Trapp, Inc. (“Contractor”); 2. Authorize staff to file the attached
Notice of Completion; and 3. Authorize the final payment to the contractor of owed retention and Release on Contract pending
clearance of the 30-day lien period.

SR - NOTICE OF COMPLETION FOR BOYS & GIRLS CLUB DOOR REPLACEMENT PROJECT - FINAL.PDF

10. COMMITTEE, COMMISSION, AND BOARD REPORTS

11. CITY MANAGER

CITY MANAGER VERBAL REPORT

12. ADJOURNMENT

MAYOR CHRISTINA VILLASEÑOR ADJOURNS TO THE NEXT REGULARLY SCHEDULED MEETING AT 6:30 P.M. ON TUESDAY, APRIL 22, 2025, CITY
HALL, 250 CENTRAL AVENUE, FILLMORE, CA 93015.

 


 
On Saturday, April 5th, Fillmore Police Department hosted their “Easter Eggs-travaganza event,” at Two Rivers Park in Fillmore. From 9am to 12pm folks were encouraged to come together for a fun Easter egg hunt, along with open conversation with our local law enforcement and the community. Kids were able to play some fun games and interact with our public safety personnel from the Mounted Unit, SWAT, Bomb Unit, K9 Unit, Fillmore Fire Department and others. Photo credit Angel Esquivel. See more photos online at www.FillmoreGazette.com.
On Saturday, April 5th, Fillmore Police Department hosted their “Easter Eggs-travaganza event,” at Two Rivers Park in Fillmore. From 9am to 12pm folks were encouraged to come together for a fun Easter egg hunt, along with open conversation with our local law enforcement and the community. Kids were able to play some fun games and interact with our public safety personnel from the Mounted Unit, SWAT, Bomb Unit, K9 Unit, Fillmore Fire Department and others. Photo credit Angel Esquivel. See more photos online at www.FillmoreGazette.com.
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Piru Elementary School Principal Viviana Laureano presented an update on the programs, activities, and initiatives to the FUSD board for the 2024-2025 school year. Attendance/Health Clerk Sonia Mendez was awarded Classified Employee of the Month, and Counselor Saira Fuentes was awarded Certificated Employee of the Month. Courtesy https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2025/4/3/piru-elementary-presentation-at-board-of-trustees-meeting.
Piru Elementary School Principal Viviana Laureano presented an update on the programs, activities, and initiatives to the FUSD board for the 2024-2025 school year. Attendance/Health Clerk Sonia Mendez was awarded Classified Employee of the Month, and Counselor Saira Fuentes was awarded Certificated Employee of the Month. Courtesy https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2025/4/3/piru-elementary-presentation-at-board-of-trustees-meeting.
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This past weekend Fillmore AYSO Region 242 attended the 2025 AYSO Sections 1/10/11 EXPO in San Diego at the event Fillmore’s AYSO’s Arnold Muñoz was honored as the AYSO Area 10W Volunteer of the Year. Above is the group of Fillmore’s AYSO members Picture above is Megan Hadley (Fillmore Region 242 Coach Admin), Marie Sasson (Fillmore Region 242 Treasurer), Crystal Cardenas (Fillmore Region 242 CVPA), Alyssa Ceballos (Fillmore Region 242 Secretary), Cindy Elliott (Fillmore Region 242 Ref Admin) and Arnold Muñoz (Fillmore Region 242 Regional Commissioner) who attended the event. Inset, is Fillmore’s Arnold Muñoz (Fillmore AYSO regional commissioner) being presented his award by Dave Howells (AYSO Area 10W Director). Photo credit Arnold Muñoz.
This past weekend Fillmore AYSO Region 242 attended the 2025 AYSO Sections 1/10/11 EXPO in San Diego at the event Fillmore’s AYSO’s Arnold Muñoz was honored as the AYSO Area 10W Volunteer of the Year. Above is the group of Fillmore’s AYSO members Picture above is Megan Hadley (Fillmore Region 242 Coach Admin), Marie Sasson (Fillmore Region 242 Treasurer), Crystal Cardenas (Fillmore Region 242 CVPA), Alyssa Ceballos (Fillmore Region 242 Secretary), Cindy Elliott (Fillmore Region 242 Ref Admin) and Arnold Muñoz (Fillmore Region 242 Regional Commissioner) who attended the event. Inset, is Fillmore’s Arnold Muñoz (Fillmore AYSO regional commissioner) being presented his award by Dave Howells (AYSO Area 10W Director). Photo credit Arnold Muñoz.
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By Gabriela Santa Rosa of Fillmore AYSO Region 242

This past weekend, board members from Fillmore AYSO Region 242 attended the 2025 AYSO Sections 1/10/11 EXPO in San Diego,
where they spent time learning, connecting, and preparing for another exciting season of youth soccer. The annual expo
offers a valuable opportunity for volunteers from across the region to receive training, continuing education, share ideas,
and bring back fresh knowledge to better serve their local communities.

One of the highlights of the weekend was the recognition of Fillmore’s very own Arnold Muñoz, who was honored as the AYSO
Area 10W Volunteer of the Year. The award was proudly presented by AYSO Area 10W Director Dave Howells, recognizing Arnold’s
outstanding dedication and contributions to AYSO and the families he serves.

In true Arnold fashion, he didn’t just accept the award—he also completed additional training and certifications, further
equipping himself to guide the Fillmore AYSO board, coaches, and families through another successful year.

In addition to receiving this prestigious award, Arnold was also recently re-elected as Regional Commissioner for Fillmore
AYSO 242, a role he has faithfully served in for the past nine years. His involvement in AYSO spans nearly two decades: 18
years as a coach, 17 years as a referee, three years as Regional Coach Administrator, and two years as a board member.

Arnold’s passion for youth sports and his commitment to the Fillmore community have left a lasting impact. Under his
leadership, Fillmore AYSO continues to thrive, offering a positive and inclusive soccer experience for players and families
alike.

Congratulations, Arnold, on your well-deserved recognition and continued leadership. We look forward to a fantastic 2025
season!

 
On Saturday, March 29th, at 2:26 P.M., Fillmore Police Department, Fillmore City Fire, and AMR Paramedics responded to a two-vehicle accident near Highway 126 and Fillmore Street. Minor injuries were reported; cause of the crash is under investigation. Photo credit Angel Esquivel.
On Saturday, March 29th, at 2:26 P.M., Fillmore Police Department, Fillmore City Fire, and AMR Paramedics responded to a two-vehicle accident near Highway 126 and Fillmore Street. Minor injuries were reported; cause of the crash is under investigation. Photo credit Angel Esquivel.
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Angel Esquivel is Fillmore Fire Department’s new photographer!

In December 2020, Angel began photographing auto accidents in Fillmore, while he was enrolled in the Fillmore Unified School District’s homeschool program, graduating in 2022, and continuing to VC College. He also was a member of the Ventura County Sheriff’s Explorer Program.

Angel’s homeschool teacher suggested he submit his work to The Fillmore Gazette and ask if they were interested in publishing his photographs. Four years later, he is still contributing to the Gazette as an independent photographer. Besides traffic collisions, Angel has branched out to community affairs, including parades and festivals, and fire and police events.

Angel also runs a Facebook group where anyone can join and report any traffic incidents between Piru and Santa Paula. The group is called “SR126 Fillmore-Traffic/Updates/Accident/Information”. He also shares his photos on his Facebook page, “Fillmore Public Safety News,” and Instagram @angggel.esquivel. 

Angel has always maintained an interest in becoming a photographer for the Fillmore Fire Department.
“As an independent photographer, I thought it fascinating to witness how our first responders work during an emergency,” he stated.

And now it’s official! He’s received a black helmet with a unique “Photographer” shield from the department, and will continue to serve the fire department, and the community with his photos in the Gazette. 

Congratulations, Angel!
Angel Esquivel is Fillmore Fire Department’s new photographer! In December 2020, Angel began photographing auto accidents in Fillmore, while he was enrolled in the Fillmore Unified School District’s homeschool program, graduating in 2022, and continuing to VC College. He also was a member of the Ventura County Sheriff’s Explorer Program. Angel’s homeschool teacher suggested he submit his work to The Fillmore Gazette and ask if they were interested in publishing his photographs. Four years later, he is still contributing to the Gazette as an independent photographer. Besides traffic collisions, Angel has branched out to community affairs, including parades and festivals, and fire and police events. Angel also runs a Facebook group where anyone can join and report any traffic incidents between Piru and Santa Paula. The group is called “SR126 Fillmore-Traffic/Updates/Accident/Information”. He also shares his photos on his Facebook page, “Fillmore Public Safety News,” and Instagram @angggel.esquivel. Angel has always maintained an interest in becoming a photographer for the Fillmore Fire Department. “As an independent photographer, I thought it fascinating to witness how our first responders work during an emergency,” he stated. And now it’s official! He’s received a black helmet with a unique “Photographer” shield from the department, and will continue to serve the fire department, and the community with his photos in the Gazette. Congratulations, Angel!
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On Sunday, March 30th, 2025, Fillmore High School Girls 4x100 Relay Team took first place as well as shattered a 30-year record set back in 1995. Above is the Flashes Girls 4x100 relay team; (l-r) Mia Munoz, Kimberly Magana, Janessa Corona, and Karinna Magana. Photo credit https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2025/3/30/girls-4x100-team-break-school-record.
On Sunday, March 30th, 2025, Fillmore High School Girls 4x100 Relay Team took first place as well as shattered a 30-year record set back in 1995. Above is the Flashes Girls 4x100 relay team; (l-r) Mia Munoz, Kimberly Magana, Janessa Corona, and Karinna Magana. Photo credit https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2025/3/30/girls-4x100-team-break-school-record.
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Courtesy https://www.blog.fillmoreusd.org/fillmore-unified-school-district-blog/2...
On Sunday March 30, 2025, at the Simi Valley Invitational, Fillmore High School Flashes Girls 4x100 Relay Team blazed to 1st place in the Girls Rated Division with a time of 50.50 seconds, not only winning the race, but shattering a 30-year school record set back in 1995. Congratulations, ladies, you are officially in the Fillmore High School history books! Go Flashes!

 

The Fillmore Police Department invites you to an “Easter Eggs-travaganza event,” a special event designed to bring the community members together for a fun event and open conversations with our local law enforcement and the community. Bring your family and kids to play some fun games and interact with our public safety personnel from the Mounted Unit, SWAT, Bomb Unit, K9 Unit, Fillmore Fire Department and others. Come check out the various specialized vehicles and equipment used by first responders to help keep our communities safe. Our staff will be coordinating games and setting up an Easter egg hunt for the children in attendance.

Event Details:

Date: Saturday, April 05, 2025
Time: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Location: Two Rivers Park
1110 River Street, Fillmore
We look forward to seeing you!

Prepared by: Technical Specialist Jesus Gaytan
Approved by: Captain Eduardo Malagon