Mayor Manuel Minjares displays a Proclamation from the Ventura Regional Sanitation District to the City of Fillmore recognizing the town’s 100 Year Centennial at Tuesday night’s council meeting.

The October 28, 2014 Fillmore City Council Meeting began with Mayor Manuel Minjares displaying a Proclamation from the Ventura Regional Sanitation District to the City of Fillmore recognizing the town's 100 Year Centennial.

The Council then gave unanimous approval to the first agenda item; a completed Economic Development Strategic Plan presented to them by City Manager David W. Rowlands. The Plan covers a wide breadth of actions for the City to pursue and was haled as forward thinking. Council Member Rick Neal responded, "This is a great step in the right direction."

The second agenda item was presented by Finance Director Gaylynn Brien on Fillmore's updated Investment Policy and asked for approval of Multi-Bank Securities, Inc (MBS) to conduct investment activities for the City of Fillmore. Brien explained the research she did to qualify MBS and that the firm is "a highly thought of brokerage dealer with 20 years of working with city governments." The expected return on investments is 2.4% to 2.5% with a 5 year ladder instead of 2 years.

Council Member Rick Neal said he was pleased that MBS was a service and not a contract company, and as a provider Fillmore could change source at any time.

Council Member Diane McCall told Brien she was also pleased saying "...we're not tied into a contract" and that she appreciated all Brien's research.

Council Member Douglas CONTINUED »

Fillmore Unified School District

Moderator: Bill Herrera
Timekeeper: Douglas Tucker

Candidates: Michael Saviors, Sean Morris, Scott Beylik

Incumbent Candidates: Lucy Rangel, Dave Wilde, Tony Prado

(7) The School Distinct has been identified as being in Program Improvement. What does this mean to you as a school board member/candidate and how do you intend to address this reality if you are elected?

Sean Morris; All our schools are in Program Improvement. We lost students as a result. How do we go from where we are to where we need to go? The answer is we set the bar high.

Scott Beylik; If I was a School Board Member it means I failed at my job. As a future Board Member it means I have a far way to go. We need our students to excel.

Lucy Rangel; Everyone needs to held accountable. We're looking forward to the Spring (semester). The Superintendent needs to make sure teachers are doing their jobs. Parents need to know a student in kindergarten is equal to what a 1st grader (kindergarten now teaches what used to be taught in 1st grade).

Tony Prado; If teachers motivate the students, they (the students) will learn. Part of the problem is the Principals.

Dave Wilde; Our teachers are in class every day they know what is happening. Those kids that are missing out, the teachers need to come up with solutions. When a kid falls behind the teachers need to focus on them.

Michael Saviors; We as a Board should be embarrassed. We need to provide the teachers with what ever they need. As a Board we need to be receptive to them, provide the extra help.

(8) Fillmore, as do other CONTINUED »

City of Fillmore

09/30/14
Stolen Vehicle
600 Blk. Clay St.
Vandalism
900 Blk. 3rd St.
200 Blk. Main St.
Theft
700 Blk. Ventura St.
600 Blk. Ventura St.
Accident – Injury
300 Blk. Main St.
10/01/14
Disturbance Party
600 Blk. Via Rodeo
Stolen Vehicle
400 Blk. 4th St.
Battery
900 Blk. 3rd St.
Vandalism
300 Blk. Main St.
10/02/14
Stolen Vehicle
700 Blk. Edison Ln.
Search Warrant
600 Blk. Via Rodeo CONTINUED »

Costumes, jack-‘o-lanterns, haunted house and scary ghost stories mark this time of year as all kids of all ages enjoy the spirit of Halloween. But if precautions aren’t taken, scary things can happen. Decorations that ignited are the reported cause in 900 home fires nationwide each year. Two of every five of those were started by a candle.

To make this day a fun and festive event, just follow these few simple steps to ensure everyone stays safe:

Trick-or-treating

• Children should always go trick-or-treating with a responsible adult
• Provide children with flashlights or glow sticks to carry for lighting and visibility
• Review how to cross a street with your child. Look left, right and left again to be sure no cars are approaching before crossing the street
• If driving, be sure to watch for trick-or-treaters who are too busy to watch for you
• Remind children to stay together as a group when walking from house to house

Costumes

• Purchase costumes made of flame resistant or flame retardant. Fire resistant does not mean fireproof!
• Apply reflective tape to Halloween costumes
• Masks can obstruct vision – consider using make-up instead
• Avoid loose, baggy sleeves or billowing skirts
• Keep hemlines short enough to prevent tripping

Decorations

• Keep decorations well away from all open flames and heat sources, including light bulbs and heaters
• Light jack-‘o-lanterns with battery powered light – never use candles!
• Keep exits clear of decorations so nothing blocks escape routes
• Remove objects from the yard that could present a tripping hazard (garden tools, hoses, etc.)

Remember to closely inspect all candy before allowing children to eat it, discarding any unwrapped treats from a stranger. If in doubt, throw it out!

CAL FIRE wishes all Californians a safe and enjoyable Halloween! For more Halloween fire safety ideas and tips, please visit the CAL FIRE website at www.fire.ca.gov.

Deputy Eugene Kostiuchenko

On October 28, 2014, Deputy Eugene Kostiuchenko was killed in the line of duty after being struck by a vehicle during a traffic stop. The driver of the vehicle was arrested by the California Highway Patrol for felony D.U.I. Deputy Kostiuchenko initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle on northbound Highway 101 at Lewis Rd. at about 1:14 a.m. He exited his vehicle to make contact with the driver. Two deputies arrived to assist with the traffic stop. Later in the contact, Eugene released the driver from the traffic stop and walked back to his vehicle when he was struck by another vehicle. The vehicle narrowly missed colliding with the assisting deputies. The driver of that vehicle continued traveling northbound at a high rate of speed. Responding deputies found the vehicle, which was involved in a solo collision off the roadway near Las Posas Rd. Deputy Kostiuchenko was pronounced deceased at the scene of the traffic stop. Deputy Kostiuchenko, age 41, was an 11-year veteran of the department. He was assigned to patrol in the City of Camarillo before his untimely passing. He is survived by his wife and two sons. Eugene also worked assignments in the Sheriff’s Office of Emergency Services and in Detention Services during his career. The men and women of the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office mourn the loss Deputy Kostiuchenko and are keeping his family in their thoughts during this difficult time.

Nature of Incident: Sheriff’s Deputy Killed in the Line of Duty
Location: Northbound U.S. Highway 101 / Lewis Rd., Camarillo
Date & Time: 10/28/14 @ 1:14 a.m.
Unit(s) Responsible: Ventura County Sheriff’s Office
Prepared by: Captain Don Aguilar
Media Release Date: October 28, 2014
Follow-Up Contact: Captain Don Aguilar (805) 797-7349
Sergeant Denise Sliva (805) 947-9285
Approved by: Sheriff Geoff Dean

Oakland/Sacramento, CA – Though there are no confirmed or suspect cases of Ebola Virus Disease (Ebola) in California, today the University of California Office of the President informed the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) that all five UC Medical Centers are positioned to provide in-patient care for Californians who have confirmed cases of Ebola if necessary. CDPH continues working with health officials to prepare for potential cases of Ebola in California and the Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) is providing updated, specific guidelines on the protective equipment, training and other measures that must be in place to protect workers’ health and safety.

“All of the UC Medical Centers specialize in complex care and operate as or staff level one trauma centers. We appreciate their leadership role in willingness to treat Ebola patients,” said Dr. Ron Chapman director of CDPH and state health officer. “The administration will support these hospitals in meeting this public health need in California. At the same time all hospitals and medical providers need to redouble preparedness efforts to ensure that they can effectively assess Ebola risk in their patients, while ensuring workplace safety.”

“As part of a public university, UC’s medical centers are far along in their preparation activities and are willing to care for confirmed Ebola patients,” said Dr. John Stobo, UC senior vice president for health sciences and services. “Stepping up to a public health crisis is what these medical centers do, and in the past weeks we have been actively readying ourselves for any health eventuality related to Ebola. We are committed to addressing the health needs of this population and the public at large, as well as ensuring the safety of our health care workers. It is our intent that only health care workers who are members of a core designated group or who volunteer to do so will provide care to confirmed Ebola patients.”

The UC Medical CONTINUED »

Carrie Broggie
The single greatest issue facing the City in the next few years is the broadening of our tax base through economic development. In order for Fillmore to be a healthier, more sustainable community, we must have an increase in tax revenue to improve our infrastructure, provide additional services to our citizens, and to enhance the quality of life of our residents.
The first step toward achieving this goal is through the carefully measured expansion of our business community. This includes not only the development of the126 industrial park by attracting the right businesses, but also by planning and implementing the revitalization of our downtown area. The City Council has taken an effective step toward this goal by creating the Fillmore Development Council. The purpose of this council is to seek out businesses that are a right fit for the industrial park. This council is also evaluating ways to enhance the downtown area and assisting merchants in the success of their businesses.
As new businesses move to Fillmore, we can anticipate an increase in housing demand. The Heritage Valley Parks housing development will undoubtedly see more home sales. Property taxes from these new home sales will contribute to the broadening of our tax base.
Critical to the success in achieving an expansion of the business community are two other factors: public safety and quality public schools. In order for business owners to make the decision to start up a business or move an existing business to Fillmore, they will evaluate these two important quality of life issues. Will their children receive a quality education attending schools in this community, and will their families and employees feel safe living here? As we work toward increasing business development, we must work equally as hard to support our law enforcement agency, fire department/paramedics, and our school district.

Tim Holmgren
Just a few short years ago, the city was facing some tremendous challenges. Over the past two years, many of these challenges have been taken on and dealt with. Fillmore is in much better shape now and our future looks bright.
However, there are still a few challenges to overcome and many of them fall into one category; Fillmore’s economic future. When the country’s economy fell apart in 2008, it hit Fillmore hard. Development that was poised to bring jobs to the area came to a halt. Several other factors, like the RDA being dissolved and the sales tax lawsuits, combined to affect the city and the citizens.
Today, the economy is showing signs of improvement. But it’s local jobs that will be the catalyst to launch us toward economic prosperity. Bringing jobs to Fillmore will put more of our neighbors to work and give options to those who are currently forced to commute. As jobs begin to come to Fillmore, the positive cycle will start. We’ll see more prosperity for the people of Fillmore and the downtown area will begin to revitalize.
Another issue that will have to be dealt with to ensure the economic prosperity of Fillmore is the train. The downtown merchants depend on the revenue generated by tourism. We need to focus on keeping the train running. But at the same time, we need to explore other options to make sure we keep tourism alive and well in Fillmore.
As I’ve said before, this is an exciting time for Fillmore. There are some challenges still facing us and Fillmore’s economic future is the biggest one we have. That being said, I am optimistic about our future and I am confident we are on the right track.

Diane McCall
Aside from the obvious need to secure revenues and maintain a balanced budget, the ONE greatest issue facing Fillmore in the next several years is our aging infrastructure. The lack of funding over the past number of years has left us with deferred maintenance items which are reaching critical levels. As a city council body we have addressed and resolved numerous immediate issues affecting our community and set the pendulum in motion for others. However, this particular growing concern will take a healthy general fund, some serious planning and possibly the location of some matching grants which may assist us in reaching our goals. Our current water and sewer infrastructure are in excess of 40 years old and we are beginning to see the effects of serious deterioration. Over the past year we have experienced at least 4 major breaks and numerous other emergency “band aid” repairs. Additionally, we need to begin accessing the condition of our streets and identify a plan for those repairs in order of priority. We need to look closely at our Transportation Development Act funds and identify funding for needed street repairs, but it will take dedication and time. Lastly, as we are our own water provider, and our city wells must be properly serviced, maintained and upgraded for the highest possible efficiency. We cannot afford to have wells down due to maintenance issues that could have been prevented due to age and funding. This is why we, as a council body are working to set a 40% general fund reserve going forward as we know these issues are looming and cannot wait indefinitely. As your city council member, I will work hard to ensure infrastructure remains on the top of our city goals and we are making all efforts to plan for the inevitable.

Mike Saviers
I will be foregoing my medical benefits if elected. I have family insurance through a private provider. If every other board member has their own family insurance and does not use that benefit that money should stay in FUSD. If in fact board members have their own insurance what is happening with that money set aside for that medical benefit if it is not being used for that purpose? The monies not used for medical benefits should be returned to the FUSD. It should be used for the District's business, like funding the school libraries needs. While I appreciate the predicament of the Fillmore Library it is part of the Ventura County Library system and should be funded through them, not with badly needed FUSD monies.

Scott Beylik
Yes, I would vote to discontinue my health insurance benefits, if I'm elected as a board member. I think the knowledge that each current board member receives heath insurance valued at $10,934.10 annually, will come as a surprise to many, including myself. This is due to the lack of transparency our district has struggled with over the past several years. I pledge to be open and completely transparent in all my decisions and actions.
With regards to opening the four elementary libraries, last board meeting the board voted to reclassify the library clerk’s job description. The district stated they would fund 2 hours per site for the rest of the school year, this would be at a cost of $6,000, which was very disappointing to hear. Yes, I think it is important to open the library, but two hours a day is barely enough time to boot up the computers, let alone actually do some benefit for the children that desperately need the resources. The cost per elementary school to fund a seven hour clerk for the rest of the school year is approximately $21,000. With our four elementary schools, we could fully fund our libraries for $84,000, compared to the districts $30 million annual budget. This is a necessary expense that should not have been cut out. As a point of comparison, a current city council member receives a stipend of $900 annually, and this will possibly increase to $3,600 annually, if voters approve. That is a huge discrepancy in compensation as compared to the time commitment of the city councils members versus the school board members. Even if the current school board members don't vote to change their current $55,000 compensation, we need to find the funds to maintain the libraries for all students. When making decisions my first thought will be to ensure that the students educational needs come first and foremost, and if that means I'm not compensated $10,934.10 annually, then it is a good day for Fillmore students.

Sean Morris
Yes, I am fortunate enough to have health coverage and will forgo the Insurance. There are two issues brought up by the questions, the first is funding for library and the second is School Board Trustee Compensation. I will answer them in that order.
It is important to understand the budget and what is being allocated for all programs including libraries. A school district is a service type of business so the majority of the outlays are for personnel including librarians. In order to compete with other schools, we must allocate funds for librarians and for the libraries as media resource centers. My vision for our libraries, especially the high school library, is to act as center for after school study, film discussion, lectures and guest speakers.
Our libraries need librarians. We also need the help of the community and the support of the school to bring in volunteers without impedance to help in all manners necessary for us to compete with other schools. Together we can make the libraries great with the necessary complement of school personnel and community volunteers.
As far as school board trustees are compensated, I do not have any issue with that. Many districts in our county provided a stipend and medical benefits to their board members. Being a board member is a lot of work and a small compensation is not out of order. That being said, I do not expect nor will I seek to receive compensation other than out of pocket expenses incurred for my duties as a board member from our district.
Sean Morris for School Board.

Lucy Rangel
It is unfortunate that with our current economy, funding for our schools and community is always lacking. At the same time, insurance rates and medical cost are rising to the extent that everyone needs health benefits. With this in mind, I would have to say that I would not be able to forego my health insurance in order to donate the proceeds to our community library. I understand the importance of libraries; however, if I were to donate the proceeds of my compensation to anyone, it would go back to the students I serve.

Dave Wilde
I think every community should have a community library. They can be used for so much more than checking out books. The library in Camarillo is always having different events that the community members can attend. If someone wanted to form a group to look at making our library used more by the public I would love to do that. Would I give up my insurance money to fund it? No, I think If my colleagues were to agree to a move like that, that the money should be spent on our students. That money could go to the music program, or school site libraries, etc.
I didn't run to be given health insurance. I wanted to serve our students. I asked that question at the VCOE four years ago. Their response helped me look at it a different way. They told me that I probably made about $36 an hour when I retired and you'll probably spend at least two hours a day with board related activities and it would amount to more than the cost of insurance each year. I easily spend more than two hours per day corresponding with other districts around the state and country discussing such things as; collaboration, RTI programs, instructional assessment plans, ESL instructional programs, peer coaching, etc. From most of those districts I get 50+ page program description plans, which I read at least twice. I just got two describing RTI programs that I need to read. That will take me at least three hours. It is what I like to do. I feel I should know as much as I can about programs and what other districts are doing. The county office said I should look at the compensation as a way the district says thanks. Since that discussion with VCOE officials, I just continue doing what I like to do. Visit schools, help with extra curricular programs, and research data from other districts.

Tony Prado
Yes , I would gladly donate $10,934.10, in health benefits if the Gazette, every farmer, business and city council person would match the donation! Remember, Vote for Tony Prado School Board.

[Editor's Note: The use of an outdated email for Tony Prado prevented him from receiving the first 2 questions. Please see them below]

Question #1: Who decides the direction of the District - the school board or the superintendent? What kind of relationship do you envision between them if you are elected?

Tony Prado
The school board decides the direction of the District, it does this by setting the vision of the District. The Board then collaborates with the Superintendent who carries out the vision. The Superintendent is accountable to the Board who sit on the Board of Trustees as representatives of the community. My role as a board member is to create a strong communicative relationship with the Superintendent and should the Board feel the Superintendent is off course, then the Board should seek information, provide feedback and support, to bring the efforts more in line with the intention of the Vision.
It is important that the Board have a strong sense of oversight and hold the Superintendent responsible for all the duties and responsibilities assigned to him including the quality of education, responding to issues and concerns raised by the community, administrators, teachers and staff. The Board needs to challenge and empower the Superintendent to utilize his management skills to improve and innovate to meet the needs of the District.
Ultimately the Board and the Superintendent are responsible for teacher effectiveness and student success in the classroom!

Question #2: What do you perceive as the most important issues for the school board and the District? What policies would you work to change, add or subtract?

Tony Prado
The most important issue for the school board and the District is our students receiving a first class education. The implementation of Common Core complemented with staff development will give the teachers and administration an opportunity to provide student success in the classroom. Reducing class size to 20 students or less in grades K-3 is vital to student achievement. I believe it is time to enhance technology in our District by eliminating textbooks and by issuing "tablets" to K-3 students, and laptops to students in grades 4-12. In order to achieve this idea it is necessary to initiate and pass a school bond. This school bond would include not only technology but monies for school improvements and repairs.
Another important issue that needs to be addressed is why so many parents are sending their children to other school districts. Our District loses thousands of dollars for every student that leaves our District, we cannot afford this flight of students. Every school district in Ventura County has one school that has achieved "California Distinguish School" status except Fillmore. The Principals in our District need to set a goal at working towards this achievement. An achievement of this kind would serve notice to all parents of this District that there is no reason to leave our District!