CITY BUDGET
Fillmore City Council is working hard to get things back on track and provide the quality of service residents had come to expect in past years. At the July 9, 2013 meeting Financial Analyst Frank Catania presented the Council with the potential fiscal impact and recommended timing for implementation of the 16 budget-related suggestions that the Council reviewed back in April. The list of operational practice changes are in the areas of revenue management, expenditure management and budgeting. Catania informed the Council that some are administrative and have already been enacted. Other list items will be addressed once a new Finance Director is hired, and the new City Manager, David Wayne Rowlands, begins his position. Rowlands stated, “I’m looking forward to getting started.”

Suggestions listed include a review annually or bi-annually of updated fees charged and analyze all business agreements with both public and private lessees on use of City assets and participation. This is to assure that the City is being reimbursed at the proper rate. Also, guidelines regarding how and where revenue and expenses are budgeted and recorded to provide for consistent reporting of a period of years. In prior years some City accounts were not properly identified which created an accounting system with what could only be described as having "holes" and inaccuracies.

One suggestion, which Council Member Steve Conaway questioned as necessary, was hiring a consultant to update the City's Cost Allocation Plan to assure that the General Fund is being reimbursed the correct amount for services provided to other funds. Conaway suggested that is could be done by City staff when services are restored.

Council Member Diane McCall CONTINUED »

2nd Lieutenant Ashley N. Van Winkle

Fillmore resident and Saint Bonaventure High School 2003 graduate, Ashley N. (Bennett) Van Winkle, 27 years, received her United States Air Force Commission on March 26, 2013 as a Second Lieutenant. Ashley enlisted in the Air Force on January 8, 2013 for a six-year enlistment. Ashley attended Fillmore Unified Schools for her primary education; Sespe and San Cayetano Elementary Schools and Fillmore Middle School before entering Saint Bonaventure where she participated in Varsity Basketball, Softball, Swim Team and Soccer.

Ashley is the wife of Chad Van Winkle and the daughter of Paul Bennett (stepmother Stephanie) of Fillmore and Lynn Hernandez (stepfather Danny) of Camarillo. Her brothers are Paul Bennett Jr. 22, Fillmore, Austin Bennett 18, Fillmore and Joey Hernandez 12, of Camarillo. Ashley's sisters are Melissa Acosta 24, of Tahoe, California, Sierra Bennett 21, Fillmore and Alyah Hernandez 10 of Camarillo. Ashley’s Grandparents are Paul and Carol Conaway of Fillmore and Loy and Frankie Hibbard of Cleveland, Tennessee.

Ashley comes from a long line of family that have served in the military; Great-Grandfather Leonard Preciado served in the United States Navy during WWII, Grandfather Loy Hibbard served in the United States Marine Corps during WWII, Grandfather Paul Conaway served in the United States Army, Uncle, Major Jimmy Hibbard, served in the United States Air Force, Uncle Kenny Preciado, served in the United States Army during Vietnam and Father-In-Law Steve Van Winkle, served in the United States Army during Vietnam.

Second Lieutenant Ashley Van Winkle attended and completed her officer training at Maxwell Air Force Base in Montgomery, Alabama. Officer Training School is a rigorous, nine-week program designed to challenge a candidate both mentally and physically. Its purpose is to develop a candidate into a world-class officer of character who possesses the American warrior ethos, embodies the Air Force Core Values and is prepared to lead Airmen. Upon graduation, a graduate is commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Air Force. Second Lieutenant Van Winkle is currently stationed at Tyndall Air Force Base, Panama City, Florida where she is participating in Undergraduate Air Battle Manager Training with the 325th Fighter/337th Air Control Squadron. She has not yet been deployed but she has earned the National Defense Medal and the Air Force Training Medal.

What is an Air Battle Manager? An Air Battle Manager is a Commissioned United States Air Force Officer who must possess at the minimum a Bachelors Degree. Second Lieutenant Van Winkle is a 2008 graduate of California State University, Northridge with a Bachelor's Degree in Marketing. An Air Battle Manager job description is: “During lightning-fast air combat, every decision makes an impact. And the officers making all of those decisions — right down to choosing the right aircraft for the mission — are the Air Battle Managers (ABM). They use strategy, experience and an intimate knowledge of all aircraft, weapons and surveillance to ensure success. By controlling the battle space and establishing "big picture" situational awareness, ABMs plan and execute the entire theater air operation. Their expertise is also often called upon in an advisory role by other allied military forces.

All of us here in the communities of Fillmore, Piru and Camarillo are proud of United States Air Force Second Lieutenant Ashley N. (Bennett) Van Winkle for her service. We wish her a long and distinguished career and safe travel. We thank her and her family for the sacrifices they have already made and will make in the future. Second Lieutenant Van Winkle is one of our own and is truly an American Hero! All of us Thank You Second Lieutenant Van Winkle for your service!

Ventura County Sheriff's Department

On 6-30-13, at about 3:00 P.M., the Ventura County Aviation Unit’s Rescue Helicopter (Air Squad 9) responded to a 911 call that originated from the Tar Creek Trail, which is located off Goodenough Road in the unincorporated area of Fillmore. The caller reported that his family was hiking from the Tar Creek swimming holes to the Squaw Flat parking lot, when his 17 year old daughter collapsed due to the heat.

The Ventura County Air Squad 9, Ventura County Fire Department (Engine 27), and personal from the Los Padres National Forest, all arrived on scene and started searching for the patient. The crew of Air Squad 9 quickly located the patient on the trail about two miles from the trailhead. The helicopter landed near the patient and the Flight Medic started treating her with advanced life support care.

While the personnel from Air Squad 9 were treating the first patient, a second group of hikers ran to the scene and reported that a second patient had collapsed due to the heat. The second patient was being assisted up the trail, but was still about one mile from the helicopter. Because the first patient needed immediate transport to the Ventura County Medical Center, Air Squad 9 was unable to stay on scene. Therefore a second Rescue Helicopter (Air Squad 7) was dispatch to the scene to treat the second patient.

While Air Squad 7 was enroute to CONTINUED »

Ventura County Sheriff's Department

The Fillmore Police and Fire Departments want to ensure the citizens of Fillmore enjoy a safe Fourth of July week. Citizens are reminded that “Safe & Sane” fireworks sold in Fillmore are legal between June 28th, 12:00pm – July 5th, 12:00pm. The use of any non-approved “Safe and Sane” fireworks that explode or launch into the air are Illegal and will result in criminal charges and/or a $1,100 fine. If you witness any illegal activity please report it. An anonymous tip line has been setup to report violators. Please call 805-524-1500 ext. 350 to report illegal activity.

Below are several safety tips to insure you and your family enjoy a safe Independence Day Celebration.

• If you witness a crime or fire in progress involving illegal fireworks, call your local authorities by dialing 9-1-1.

• Only Safe and Sane fireworks bearing the seal of the State Fire Marshal are legal in the city of Fillmore. All other fireworks, including altered Safe and Sane fireworks and those that explode or leave the ground are illegal.

• Kids should not play with fireworks. Fireworks are intended for use by adults in open spaces with plenty of active supervision for every child present.

• Always have a bucket of water on hand to dispose of fireworks and a hose connected to water ready in case of fire.

• Fireworks, including sparklers and flares, can cause serious burns as well as blast injuries that can permanently impair vision and hearing. Teach your children what to do if their clothing catches on fire — “stop, drop and roll” — and how to call 9-1-1 in an emergency.

Nature of Incident: 4th of July Illegal Fireworks Enforcement and Safety
Report Number: N/A
Location: City of Fillmore
Date & Time: June 28, 2013 – July 5, 2013
Unit Responsible: Fillmore Police and Fire Departments
Deputy Preparing Media Release: Sgt. Anthony Aguirre
Media Release Date: July 1, 2013
Follow-Up Contact: Sgt. Anthony Aguirre (805) 524-2235
Anthony.Aguirre@ventura.org
Approved by: Captain Monica McGrath

Ventura County Crime Stoppers will pay up to $1,000 reward for information, which leads to the arrest and criminal complaint against the person(s) responsible for this crime. The caller may remain anonymous. The call is not recorded. Call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477).

Ventura County Sheriff's Department

In the month of June, 2013, the City of Fillmore has experienced three incidents where a male subject has inappropriately made contact with children in public areas. It is not known at this time if each incident is related as each had different descriptions of the suspect. On two of the incidents, a male was driving a vehicle and offered rides to the lone children. The third incident two youths were approached by a male pedestrian and offered to be taken to look at beautiful birds.

The incidents are currently under investigation. The Fillmore Police Department wishes to remind parents to diligently supervise their children and educate them regarding the danger an unknown person can pose. Anyone with any information related to these or similar incidents are encouraged to report it to the Fillmore Police Department.

Nature of Incident: Child Annoying Incidents
Report Number: 13-12457,13-13594,13-14001
Location: The City of Fillmore
Date & Time: June 6, 2013, to June 25, 2013
Unit(s) Responsible: Fillmore Investigations
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent City of Residence Age
Four Juveniles Fillmore 6-14
Prepared by: Detective John Fox
Media Release Date: June 26, 2013
Follow-Up Contact: Detective John Fox (805) 524-2233
Approved by: Captain Monica McGrath

STRSA AGREEMENT
Fillmore was the big winner this week and that could not be stated more accurately. Many have waited years for this decision. The findings by the Court of Appeal of California states Fillmore will receive the 15% tax share that was originally agreed upon in the 2003 Sales Tax Revenue Sharing Agreement (STRSA) with MTS and Inspired Development and will continue to receive it until 2023 when the agreement expires, if the businesses are still located in Fillmore. This is expected to earn the town an additional $1 million per year or more in tax rebates.
Fillmore entered into the STRSA to encourage retailers to establish sales offices in town and agreed to share with them the sales tax rebate received from the State. It was unanimously voted in at that time by the City Council which included Mayor Evaristo Barajas, Mayor Pro-tem Ernie Villegas, Cecilia Cuevas, Ken Smedley and Patti Walker.

California applies sales tax where the sale occurs, rather than where a product is delivered or stored. The State then rebates 1% of all sales taxes collected within municipalities and gives those cities a free hand in how those revenues are used. That allows cities to rebate a portion to retailers and other companies as a way to lure them to open facilities in their towns.

The City of Industry, the City of Livermore, the City of Lathrop and the County of San Joaquin sued the City of Fillmore, Inspired Development, MTS Consulting and Owens & Minor alleging the establishment of sham sales / purchasing offices in Fillmore with the intention of diverting sales tax revenues from their cities and county where the products were warehoused.

While the courts CONTINUED »

Laura Todis, Ventura County Office of Education’s Teacher of the Year. Photo by Bob Sube.
Enlarge Photo

On May 24, 2013 Sierra High School Teacher Laura Todis was the recipient of Ventura County Office of Education’s Teacher of the Year Award. She was surprised by the visit from VCOE Superintendent Stan Mantooth and Coordinator John Tarkany. Mr. Stan Mantooth presented Ms. Todis with a bouquet of flowers, a beautiful plaque and $1,000 and recognized her recent achievements. Mr. Mantooth said, “Ms. Todis has accomplished the Educational Trifecta with today’s County Teacher of the Year Award. She recently was the recipient of Amgen’s Science Teacher of Excellence Award, as well as being selected as Fillmore Unified School District’s Teacher of the Year 2013. What an amazing feat!” Students and staff from Sierra High School cheered on Ms. Todis as she received this award.

Ms. Todis graciously accepted the award on behalf of her students and told them that this award was for them. “This award is for you, too. We work hard and put 100% into everything we do. It is nice to be recognized for things we do every day. I hope I have inspired you to love Science.” said Todis.

Dr. Alan Nishino, Fillmore Unified School District Superintendent also congratulated Ms. Todis and said, “She truly represents good teaching in Fillmore. We have great students and teachers in Fillmore and it is wonderful to see her receive this recognition today.” Sierra High School Principal, Cynthia Frutos said, “Ms. Todis is an outstanding teacher that engages students to every lesson and students become immersed in the content. For continuation students who have become disengaged with school, she re-ignites the desire to learn. She sets high standards and expectations for all students, and as a result, all rise to the occasion. Students strive to their full potential because they know she does not allow failure---it is simply not an option in her classes. She truly believes in them and they know it.”

ASB President Thania Sahagun cheered loudly and said about Ms. Todis, “She really believes in us and she makes learning Science fun. She is also a good ASB Advisor.” Erik Palma, Sierra Senior added, “I never liked school before but since I came to Sierra, I love it. I especially love the Science fieldtrips to Santa Cruz Island and the Condor Sanctuary.”

What a great time we all had at the 100th Alumni dinner on Saturday, June 15th. The afternoon started out with a nice social hour on the Patio, and inside the Memorial Building where everyone was able to visit with old friends, and reminisce of the good old days at Fillmore High. The inside of the building was decked out with Pictures from our High School days that folks have not seen in years. Every single class starting back to 1911 had their pictures hung up along the walls, and Alumni members were picking out parents, grandparents, and Great Grandparents that were Alumni. As the dinner hour approached Alumni members were guided by Alumni Volunteers to the dining area out on the Memorial Buidling lawn, and seated. DJ’s California Catering provided a delicious dinner, and once again, it seemed like the Peach and Apple Cobbler with Vanilla Ice Cream was the big hit. After a short program, where the Chancellor from U.C. Merced spoke, (A Fillmore H.S. Grad ’66) it was time for the Alma Mater and then many folks stayed to visit for the rest of the evening. Some just relaxed under the Bistro lighting out on the Patio area, and other’s danced the night away to the fun music of the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s. The Alumni Association wishes to thank the following. DJ’s California Catering, Amigo Party Rental, Otto and Son’s, Don Vela outside DJ, Eddie Leighton Inside DJ, Tina Hurtado ’94 Floral Design, Quality Ag, and the numerous Volunteers who helped contribute to the success of the 100th. See you all next year!

Over the past tow months there have been numerous reports of identity theft in Fillmore. The suspects are using personal information of the victims to establish credit and open bank accounts. The investigation is ongoing.
Several residents discovered that they were a victim of identity theft by going through their mail and finding letters form credit card companies regarding their application of credit, getting calls from financial institutions and/or receiving packages of merchandise to their residence that they didn’t order.

The Fillmore Police Department would like to remind its residents to protect their personal identity information. If you have had the misfortune to have already been a victim of identity theft, and you have not reported it, please contact the Police Department to make a report, and contact each of the credit reporting companies as follows, Equifax, Experian, TransUnion.

For more information, please contact the Fillmore Police Department at 524-2233.

Police Chief Monica McGrath

Last Tuesday, June 18, 2013 the Fillmore City Council held a Special Meeting Budget Workshop where the ups and downs of our City's finances were discussed in detail. Much of the news was positive. Austerity measures the City has taken over the past years has helped to put the City's finances back on track and going in the right direction.

There was a question of having enough in reserve to replace some capital improvements. Financial Advisor Frank Catania warned the Council that there are limited reserves and things that need replacing. While factoring in inflation and capital improvements, the amount in reserve is low. He informed the Council that a City should have at least 120 days in reserve. This amount is to cover the cost of a disaster which Fillmore has experienced more than once. The 120 day requirement is because it usually takes Federal Emergency Management Agency that amount of time to start funding. Another item that will need to be addressed may be to Risk Management/Insurance. Rates may be increasing and the City should be looking for a new insurance pool. There are three major Government/City insurance pools in California, but each requires one year advanced notice to change providers.

There is still the CONTINUED »

The City of Fillmore Fire Department wants to ensure that Fillmore citizens enjoy a safe Fourth of July week. Citizens are reminded that “safe & sane” fireworks sold in Fillmore are legal between June 28 12:00pm – July 5 12:00pm. The use of any type of non-approved fireworks is never legal and will result in criminal charges and the potential for a $1,100 fine. If you witness any illegal activity please report it! An anonymous tip line has been setup to report violators. Please call 805-524-1500 ext. 350 to report illegal activity.

Below are several safety tips to insure you and your family enjoy a safe Independence Day Celebration.

Fire Safety
•If you witness a crime or fire in progress involving illegal fireworks, call your local authorities by dialing 9-1-1.
•Only Safe and Sane fireworks bearing the seal of the State Fire Marshal are legal in California. All other fireworks, including altered Safe and Sane fireworks and those that explode or leave the ground are illegal.
•Kids should not play with fireworks. Fireworks are intended for use by adults in open spaces with plenty of active supervision for every child present.
•Always have a bucket of water on hand to dispose of fireworks and a hose connected to water ready in case of fire.
•Fireworks, including sparklers and flares, can cause serious burns as well as blast injuries that can permanently impair vision and hearing. Teach your children what to do if their clothing catches on fire — “stop, drop and roll” — and how to call 9-1-1 in an emergency.

Pet Safety
•Get your pet CONTINUED »

Ventura County Sheriff's Department

Two drowning victims were found in a residential pool in the 3700 Block of Howe Road in Piru. Initial lifesaving efforts were provided to the victims by two citizens. Ventura County Fire Personnel, American Medical Response ambulance personnel and Sheriff’s Deputies responded to the residence and took over lifesaving efforts. Ramon Alvarez was later pronounced dead at the scene. Nelson Alvarez (Ramon's son) was transported via helicopter to Los Robles Hospital where he later died. A preliminary investigation indicated that the victims drowned in an unfortunate chain of events while attempting to repair the pool mechanisms. The Ventura County Medical Examiner’s Office will be conducting a further investigation to determine the cause of death.

Nature of Incident: Drowning
Report Number: 13-12597
Location: 3700 Block of Howe Road Piru, CA
Date & Time: June 8, 2013 at 1335 hours
Unit(s) Responsible: West County Patrol – Fillmore Police
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent City of Residence Age
Ramon Alvarez, Piru, CA, 79
Nelson Alvarez, Piru, CA, 37
Prepared by: Sergeant J. Hendren
Media Release Date: 6/08/2013
Follow-Up Contact: Fillmore Police Department – Sergeant A. Aguirre
Approved by: Captain Dave Wareham

Ventura County Crime Stoppers will pay up to $1,000 reward for information, which leads to the arrest and criminal complaint against the person(s) responsible for this crime. The caller may remain anonymous. The call is not recorded. Call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477).

Like a bee to nectar the CHHF fly’s back into Fillmore and brings with it the sweet taste of BBQ.

The festival returns to Central Ave Park, 250 Central Ave Fillmore Ca. on June 15 and 16.

Bennett’s Honey Farm returns as the primary sponsor of the Honey, BBQ and good time family event.

Jump on board Fillmore & Western “Honey Express” train for the 7 mile scenic educational ride to Bennett’s Honey Farm. Along the route will be demonstrations by Bee Keepers on bee and hive handling. Docents will explain the importance of bees in maintaining balance and production of our valley’s agriculture activities. The “Honey Express” will depart Fillmore 10:00 AM, 12:30 PM and 3:00 PM. Riders will be given a “inside the hive” tour of Bennett’s Honey Farm processing facility. Tickets for this activity are available for purchase at the event.

In conjunction with the Honey Harvest Festival, BBQ Teams will be competing in a Kansas City BBQ Society (KCBS) BBQ Contest on June 15. KCBS judging will take place Saturday 12:00 and 2:00 PM. Sunday, June 16, Pitmasters will compete in a “People’s Choice” BBQ event and will be required to use honey in their BBQ. Tickets will be available for BBQ sampling on both days.

Central Park will be buzzing with musical entertainment, Arts & Craft Vendors, Vendors and Educational Speakers on Bee and also on BBQ technique. The event is open to the public at 9:00 AM. There is no charge for entry to the event. Proceeds go to Autism Speaks. For info contact Roger Campbell 805-857-2785.