Pictured is Eric Guzman at Ventura County Fire Station 28 in Piru.
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Courtesy Eric Wreesman

I would like to share a story about a local young man who has achieved his goal of serving his community in a firefighting capacity.

Eric Guzman, 24, born and raised in Piru, set a goal to become a Fireman as a young kid. When Eric was 16, he became a Fire Cadet with the Ventura County Fire Department at Fire Station 27 in Fillmore, and excelled in the program with his strong work ethic and character.

Eric continued as a Fire Explorer as the program evolved, and never took his foot off the gas as he progressed. He became an ambulance operator with the Glendale Fire Department, eventually obtaining his paramedic license and continued on his path of hard work and dedication.

At the age of 23, Eric achieved his dream of becoming a Fireman for the Ventura County Fire Department. This was his dream not only because it’s where he started as a Fire Cadet, but also the community he grew up in his entire life.
Today Eric works as Paramedic Fireman and continues still to keep his foot on the gas, bettering himself every day, and providing the highest level of service for his community. Eric is proud to live and work in his community, serving in this capacity.

Now that he has obtained his paramedic certification with the County of Ventura, Eric is able to work shifts at Medic Engine 28 in Piru, just blocks away from where he grew up.
Great Job, Eric! Keep up the great work and thank you for serving your community.

On Friday, September 13, 2024, traffic was delayed for work on Old Telegraph Road which was closed down to one lane due to the Ventura County Transportation Commission doing emergency repairs on the embankment along the Sespe Creek. Photo credit Angel Esquivel. Inset photo Gazette staff.
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Courtesy https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid= 1073353124799990&set=a.331155945686382

Last week on September 11, 2024, the Ventura County Transportation Commission announced the following on their Facebook page: VCTC has started an emergency project to repair the embankment along the Sespe Creek near Fillmore, which was damaged by winter storms in 2023 and 2024. The work will stabilize the bank and protect the railroad and Old Telegraph Road bridge during the coming winter season. Work is anticipated to occur weekdays between 7 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. and is expected to last about 30 days. The project may produce construction noise, however, loud noise is prohibited between 9 p.m. and 7 a.m. Drivers may experience brief traffic delays on Old Telegraph Road. VCTC reminds drivers to be alert for work zones. We appreciate your patience and understanding.

As of December 12, 2023, the City of Fillmore adopted Ordinance 23-958, officially implementing Map 102 B. This November, we’re holding our first district-based election! To help you stay informed, we’ve launched the City of Fillmore – My Elected Representative application. Simply enter your address, and it will show your district and elected representative! Learn more and watch the tutorial here: https://www.fillmoreca.gov/1332/Find-My-Elected-Representative. Got questions? Contact Deputy City Clerk Arely Venegas at 805-524-3701 ext. 217 or avenegas@fillmoreca.gov. Courtesy https://www.facebook.com/cityoffillmore.
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Courtesy https://www.fillmoreca.gov/1332/Find-My-Elected-Representative

As of December 12, 2023, the City of Fillmore adopted Ordinance 23-958, officially implementing Map 102 B. This upcoming November marks a significant milestone for the city, as it will be holding its first district-based election. To ensure residents are informed and empowered in this new process, the City has launched the City of Fillmore – My Elected Representative application.

This user-friendly tool allows residents to simply input their address, and the application will provide information on the district they belong to and the details of their elected representative. This ensures that residents stay connected with their local government and know exactly who is representing their district.

To further assist the community, the City has prepared a helpful tutorial video, available for viewing here: https://youtu.be/2X_BDXFmvsc. This video guides users through the steps of using the application and accessing their district information.

If you have any questions or need assistance, please reach out to Arely Venegas, Deputy City Clerk, at 805-524-3701 ext. 217 or via email at avenegas@fillmoreca.gov.

For more details on the district election process, please visit the following link.
https://www.fillmoreca.gov/1332/Find-My-Elected-Representative

On Wednesday, September 11th, Fillmore City Fire Department hosted a memorial ceremony marking the 23rd anniversary of the terrorist attacks of September 11th, 2001. They gathered at 6:45am and promptly raised the American flag at 6:55am, followed by a countywide radio broadcast remembrance. Refreshments were served afterwards for those who attended the memorial. Photo credit Angel Esquivel.
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The City of Fillmore Fire Department held a memorial in remembrance of 9/11 on the 23rd anniversary of the terrorist attacks on the United States, September 11th, 2001. As a nation, we were brought together in tragedy, captivated by the images of destruction, despair, fear, and raw emotion. The only images strong enough to help us cope with such devastation were the amazing images of unity, strangers helping strangers, heroism, and watching America’s front line of public servants run toward the face of danger. They invited the community to join then Wednesday morning of September 11th they took a moment of Silence to remember the civilians, Firefighters, Police Officers, and Military Personnel who perished on that fateful day.

Let us remember the sacrifices made by so many that morning. From the everyday heroes who helped save perfect strangers, to the first responders who walked toward danger in hopes of helping anyone they could, they were all a shining example of how we can easily come together in times of national crisis. We will never forget those brave individuals, and we will never forget September 11th, 2001.

AGENDA

Agenda item approved 5-0

8. NEW BUSINESS

8.A AWARD OF CONTRACT FOR CONSTRUCTION OF PROJECT SPECIFICATION
NO. 24-02, SIDEWALKS AND PLAZA CONCRETE PROJECT

SR - SIDEWALKS AND PLAZA AWARD OF CONTRACT FOR PROJECT SPEC
NO. 24-02.PDF

RECOMMENDATION

It is recommended the City Council approve the award of a contract to ADA General Engineering,
Inc. (“ADA-GE”) for the construction of Project Specification No. 24-02 - Sidewalks and Plaza
Concrete Project (“Project”) and appropriate $82,694.30 of additional budget from General Fund
to complete the City Hall Plaza improvements as bid.

9. COMMITTEE, COMMISSION, AND BOARD REPORTS

10. CITY MANAGER

11. CLOSED SESSION

11. A CLOSED SESSION - SEPTEMBER 10, 2024
CITY OF FILLMORE

SEPTEMBER 10, 2024 - CLOSED SESSION.PDF

CITY MANAGER VERBAL REPORT

12. ADJOURNMENT

MAYOR CARRIE BROGGIE ADJOURNS TO THE NEXT REGULARLY SCHEDULED MEETING AT 6:30 P.M. ON TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 24 , 2024, CITY HALL, 250 CENTRAL AVENUE, FILLMORE, CA 93015.

Joe Bellomo, City of Fillmore New Public Works Director
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FILLMORE, CALI-FORNIA –September 5, 2024– After a thorough and extensive search, the City of Fillmore is pleased to announce the appointment of Joe Bellomo as the new Public Works Director. Joe brings over 20 years of diverse and valuable experience to the position, having previously worked with Los Angeles County in their Environmental Division and most recently with Willdan Engineering.

Joe is no stranger to the Fillmore community, having served as the Deputy City Engineer through Willdan Engineering for several years. His in-depth knowledge of the City’s infrastructure, operations, and team members will ensure a smooth and seamless transition into his new role. Joe is also a licensed California Professional Engineer (PE), further solidifying his expertise and qualifications for the position. “It’s both an honor and a privilege to step into this role,” said Joe. “I look forward to the challenges ahead and collaborating with our talented management team and crew to ensure the sustainability and continued improvement of the City’s assets. Serving the community and residents of Fillmore is a true honor, and I am committed to making a lasting, positive impact for generations to come.”

City Manager David Rowlands expressed his confidence in Joe’s ability to excel in his new role: “Joe’s knowledge of the City, its operations, and employees will enable him to hit the ground running. We are fortunate to have someone of Joe’s caliber working for us.”

Joe Bellomo’s extensive background in engineering and public works management, combined with his familiarity with Fillmore’s unique needs, makes him an ideal choice to lead the City’s Public Works Department. His appointment is a significant step forward in ensuring the continued development and maintenance of Fillmore’s infrastructure.

As Public Works Director, Joe will oversee all aspects of the City’s public works operations, including maintenance of streets, water, sewer systems, and other essential services that contribute to the quality of life for Fillmore residents.
The City of Fillmore extends a warm welcome to Joe Bellomo as he embarks on this new chapter in his career, and we look forward to the positive impact he will undoubtedly have on our community.

For questions and further information regarding this, please contact Erika Herrera-Terriquez, Assistant City Manager at 805-946-1712 or eherrera@fillmoreca.gov .

Please visit www.fillmoreca.gov and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
Community Contact:

Name: Erika Herrera-Terriquez
Title: Assistant City Manager
Phone: 805-946-1712
Email: eherrera@fillmoreca.gov

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The Firefighters of your Fillmore City Fire Department would like to invite you to attend a memorial celebration marking the 23rd anniversary of the terrorist attacks on the United States, September 11th, 2001. As a nation, we were brought together in tragedy, captivated by the images of destruction, despair, fear, and raw emotion. The only images strong enough to help us cope with such devastation were the amazing images of unity, strangers helping strangers, heroism, and watching America’s front line of public servants run toward the face of danger. We invite you to join us this Wednesday morning to remember the civilians, Firefighters, Police Officers, and Military Personnel who perished on that fateful day.

Let us remember the sacrifices made by so many that morning. From the everyday heroes who helped save perfect strangers, to the first responders who walked toward danger in hopes of helping anyone they could, they were all a shining example of how we can easily come together in times of national crisis. We will never forget those brave individuals, and we will never forget September 11th, 2001.

Gathering at the Fillmore Fire Station will start at 6:45 AM in the front. The American flag will be raised promptly at 6:55 followed by a County-wide radio broadcast of a remembrance.

Fillmore Fire Station 91 is located at 711 Landeros Lane. Refreshments will be served afterwards.

Stock Photo: Angel Esquivel-Fillmore Gazette

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Posted on: August 29, 2024, Courtesy https://www.fillmoreca.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=137

Exciting News for Fillmore! We are thrilled to announce that the City of Fillmore has been featured in Business View Magazine, who has been named to the 2020 Inc. 500 list of America’s fastest-growing Private Companies as one of the fastest-growing municipalities! This recognition highlights our community’s commitment to growth, innovation, and the incredible people who make Fillmore a wonderful place to live, work, and thrive. (Fillmore feature appearing on pages 177-186 - https://businessviewmagazine.com/civil-municipal/aug-2024/1/).

Thank you to everyone who contributes to making Fillmore a vibrant and dynamic city. Here’s to more growth and success in the future!

Above is the Fillmore Historical Museum’s dynamic trio (l-r), Sue Zeider, Sue Hopkins, and Sue Cuttriss, dedicated volunteers who keep our local museum going. Photo by Carina Montoya.
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Written by Carina Montoya

It is said that “good things come in threes.” Local longtime Fillmore residents Sue Cuttriss, Sue Hopkins and Sue Zeider are the town’s dynamic trio. It is a coincidence that all three share the same first name and coincidentally live in the same neighborhood, belong to the same women’s organization, and are dedicated volunteers at the Fillmore Historical Museum. Together they serve and enrich the community with their dedication in promoting art, culture, and the preservation of the town’s history. It is interesting that the name “Sue” (short for Susan, Susanna, and Suzanne, but all three Sues here are Susans) has deep historical roots that dates to ancient times. It is a name that holds the significant symbolic meaning of a Lily that symbolized great cultural importance. It is no wonder that Sue, Sue, and Sue dedicate their time in collecting, preserving, interpreting, and displaying objects of artistic, cultural, and scientific significance for the study and education of the public.

Sue Cuttriss is a retired teacher and volunteers at the museum as a docent, educator, and assists with museum coverage. Sue Hopkins is also a retired teacher and volunteers at the museum as a docent, educator, and assists with museum coverage. Sue Zeider is retired from a career in insurance and volunteers her time at the museum as archivist, docent, educator, article-writer, develops in-person and zoom presentations, and provides museum coverage. Sue, Sue, and Sue are truly a dynamic trio at the museum, as are the museum’s dynamic duo, Martha and Martha, but that’s another story.

The Fillmore Historical Museum was founded in 1974 by local teacher and author Edith Jarrett. Edith purchased the train depot building for $1.05 (one dollar five cents) and had it moved across the street to its current location on the museum grounds next to the railroad tracks. Since its founding, the museum has operated on dedicated volunteers and interns who share an interest in history and the preservation of information and artifacts of local people, places, and things. The main museum is in the old Rancho Sespe Bunkhouse #2 and houses the major portion of the museum’s collection. It has a gift shop, library, exhibit rooms, and a “work room” where photographs and some artifacts are examined and stored. The bunkhouse was donated to the Museum by James P. Finch who purchased the Rancho Sespe headquarters parcel. The bunkhouse was moved to its current location in 1995. There is an office door name plate in the bunkhouse that reads “Sue’s Office,” so next time you visit the museum, you’re likely to meet “Sue.”

Santa Paula, Calif. – On Sunday, August 25, 2024, at about 12:25 p.m. a single engine airplane crashed near the Santa Paula Airport. The plane crashed in an open lot at a business east of 12th St. and south of Highway 126. The pilot, identified as Graham Pollock, age 25, of Santa Paula, was treated at the scene and airlifted to Ventura County Medical Center in Ventura. He was listed in critical condition and sustained burn injuries. There were no other occupants in the plane and no one on the ground was injured.

After being treated at Ventura County Medical Center, Pollock was airlifted to a Los Angeles County Hospital Burn Unit. His condition remains critical but stable.

Through investigation it was learned a Good Samaritan nearby observed the crash and quickly acted by pulling the pilot, who was on fire, from the wreckage. He used a fire extinguisher to douse the flames on the pilot. This heroic action was done prior to Ventura County Fire Department and Santa Paula Police Department arriving on scene.

The Santa Paula Police Department, Ventura County Fire Department, City of Santa Paula Emergency Services Coordinator, Ventura County Department of Airports, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and National Traffic Safety Board (NTSB) responded to the crash scene. The FAA and NTSB are continuing the investigation. The plane was a Pitts Special Acrobatic type biplane.

Press Release Prepared by: Don Aguilar, Chief of Police

Media Follow Up Contact: Don Aguilar, Chief of Police
(805) 525-4474 Ext. 123 daguilar@spcity.org

On Saturday, August 24th, 2024, at 11:53 P.M. the Ventura County Fire Department, AMR Paramedics, and California Highway Patrol were dispatched to a reported vehicle versus pedestrian at westbound SR126 just east of Trestle Way, Fillmore. According to the California High-way Patrol the driver of a Volkswagen Jetta, a 37-year-old woman from the Santa Clarita area, was traveling westbound on Highway 126 when the man ran north across traffic lanes in front of the vehicle. The pedestrian was struck and killed. On Monday, the Ventura County Medical Examiner’s Office identified the man as Dario Nicacio Medina, 45 of Moorpark. He died from multiple blunt force injuries, agency officials said. The CHP said the driver was found not to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The car was going about 50 mph at the time of the collision. CHP closed one lane of the westbound highway for over two hours for the investigation and cleanup. Initial reports said a friend of the pedestrian told dispatchers they had been fishing and were trying to cross the roadway. The CHP incident log said fish guts had been spread across the highway during the collision, which posed a cleanup challenge.

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On October 15, 2023, Rite Aid filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of New Jersey. The filing was part of a restructuring plan to cut debt, resolve litigation claims, and position the company for future growth. The plan included $3.45 billion in financing, an agreement with creditors, and closing underperforming stores. As of June 28, 2024, Rite Aid was approved to exit bankruptcy after a US bankruptcy judge approved a restructuring plan. The drugstore chain has been shrinking its store count for years, losing ground to rivals Walgreens and CVS. Rite Aid has closed almost 550 locations, including 98 in California, and has announced plans to close more in 2024. The company says the closures will help reduce rent expenses and improve financial performance. Rite Aid has also faced more than a thousand federal, state, and local lawsuits accusing it of illegally filling painkiller prescriptions.