Above are Council members, Chris Gurrola (left) and Mark Austin (right), who will be stepping down from Fillmore City Council. Center is former Mayor Carrie Broggie. High Winds Bring Fire Hazards to Area
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CITY OF FILLMORE CITY COUNCIL AND SUCCESSOR AGENCY REGULAR MEETING
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2024, 6:30 PM, CITY HALL
AGENDA
All agenda items passed with a 5-0 vote.

The Council has elected Christina Villasenor as the new Mayor and Albert Mendez as the new Mayor Pro Tem.

1. CALL TO ORDER

2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

3. ROLL CALL

4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

5. PRESENTATIONS

5.A RECOGNIZING THE WINNERS OF THE 2024 CENTRAL AVENUE CHRISTMAS

TREE DECORATING

5.B RECOGNITION OF OUTGOING CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS

5.C NEW ELECTED OFFICIALS OATH OF OFFICE AND PRESENTATION OF

CERTIFICATE OF ELECTION

6. CITY COUNCIL REORGANIZATION MEETING RECESS (BREAK)

7. PUBLIC COMMENTS

8. CITY COUNCIL REPORTS, RECOM-MENDATIONS, AND COMMENTS

9. CONSENT CALENDAR

9A. THROUGH

9D. IS TO APPROVE BY VOICE VOTE.

9.A CITY OF FILLMORE WARRANT REGISTER-DECEMBER 10, 2024

CITY OF FILLMORE WARRANT REGISTER-DECEMBER 10, 2024.PDF

9.B CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION 24-4038 UPDATING THE RESOLUTION
FIXING THE COMPENSATION, BENEFITS AND OTHER TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT OF NON-REPRESENTED MANAGEMENT/MIDMANAGEMENT, CONFIDENTIAL, AND PARTTIME EMPLOYEES OF THE CITY OF FILLMORE

MGMT COMP RESO-LUTION STAFF REPORT.PDF

9.C CONSIDERATION OF ADOPTION OF AN UPDATED CALPERS PUBLICLY AVAILABLE PAY SCHEDULERE COMMENDATION FOR ITEM
FILLMORE - STAFF REPORT PUBLICLY AVAILABLE PAY SCHEDULE.PDF

9.D CONTRACT FOR BUREAU VE-RITAS BUILDING AND PLAN REVIEW AND CONSULTING SERVICES
FILLMORE BUREAU VERITAS CONTRACT PLAN UPDATE.PDF

10. NEW BUSINESS

10.A ADOPTION OF CITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION 24-4033 DECLARING THE RESULTS OF THE NOVEMBER 5, 2024 ELECTION

SR DECLARING THE 2024 ELECTION RESULTS.PDF
RECOMMENDATION That the City Council adopt City Council Resolution 24-4033 Declaring the Results of the November 5, 2024 General and Municipal Election.

10.B SELECTION OF 2024 MAYOR AND MAYOR PRO TEMPORE

SR - SELECTION OF MAYOR AND MPT.PDF

RECOMMENDATION That the City Council select the 2024 Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem. The City Clerk’s Department asks the City Council to nominate a Councilmember to serve as Mayor via a motion; the motion must be seconded, and then the Councilmembers will vote on the nomination. If the vote fails, a new nomination is made, and the process is repeated until a motion is adopted. Following the receipt of a majority vote of the Councilmembers for a Mayor for the new term, the current Mayor will call for nominations for Mayor Pro Tempore via the same motion process used for the selection of the Mayor. Following a majority vote of the Councilmembers for the Mayor Pro Tempore, the Council will reorganize accordingly.

10.C PRESERVATION OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT - APPOINTMENT OF STANDBY OFFICERS
PRESERVATION OF LOCAL GOV - APPOINTMENT OF STANDBY OFFICERS 2024.PDF

REQUEST: Staff requests that each member of the City Council appoint standby officers.

10.D APPOINTMENTS TO CITY COUNCIL COMMITTEES, COM-MISSIONS, LIAISON, AND OUTSIDE AGENCIES
SR APPOINTMENT TO COMMITTEES, COMM AND OUTSIDE AGENCIES.PDF

RECOMMENDATION That the City Council discuss and: 1. That the Mayor appoint, with City Council consent, City Council representatives to the various positions listed on Attachment 1 including the adoption of Resolution No. 24 4034 Appointing a City Council representative to the Board of Directors of the Fillmore and Piru Basins Groundwater Sustainability Agency (GSA); and 2. Provide direction whether any standing committees or ad-hoc committees are no longer necessary and should be dissolved. The list of City Council standing and ad hoc committees is included on Attachment 1.
10.E DISCUSSION AND ADOPTION OF PROPOSED 2025 CITY COUNCIL MEETING SCHEDULE
CITY COUNCIL MEETING CALENDAR 2025.PDF

RECOMMENDATION Staff is requestion that the City Council review and adopt the attached proposed 2025 City Council Meeting Schedule. Following City Council approval, the schedule will be published and posted on the City’s website.
10.F REVIEW OF FY 2023-24 DEVELOPMENT IMPACT FEE ANNUAL AND FIVEYEAR REPORT AND CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION NO. 24-4041 MAKING FINDINGS REGARDING UNEXPENDED DEVELOPMENT IMPACT FEES
SR FY 2023-24 DIF REPORT.PDF

RECOMMENDATION Staff is requestion that the City Council review and adopt the attached proposed 2025 City Council Meeting Schedule. Following City Council approval, the schedule will be published and posted on the City’s website.
10.G FINAL UPDATE ON THE EXPENDITURES OF THE CITYS AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN FUNDS AND CITY COUNCIL APPROVAL OF THE PROPOSED ALLOCATION OF THE BALANCE OF THE FUNDS
SR - 2024 ARPA UPDATE.PDF

RECOMMENDATION That the City Council: 1. Receive an update on the City’s use of its American Rescue Plan Funds (ARPA) funds; 2. Approve the allocation of ARPA funds, in an amount of $20,000 to increase the not-to-exceed contract amount of $60,000, for the first amendment to the RSG contract in a form approved by the City Attorney and authorize the Interim City Manager to execute the first amendment; 3. Approve the allocation of ARPA funds, in an amount of $6,000, as a contingency to the office reconfiguration contract with Omnia Partners through Tri County Office Furniture and authorize the Interim City Manager to sign for such contingency; 4. Approve the allocation of the remaining ARPA funds, in an amount not to exceed $53,816, for a contract with PSD Citywide in a form approved by the City Attorney and authorize the Interim City Manager to execute the agreement; and 5. Authorize the Interim City Manager to allocate any unused funds after reconciliation of all ARPA projects if excess funds remain available.

10.H ADOPTION OF THE FY 2025-26 RECOGNIZED OBLIGATION PAYMENT SCHEDULE (ROPS) FOR THE PERIOD JULY 1, 2025 THROUGH JUNE 30, 2026 AND THE ADMINISTRATIVE BUDGET FOR THE CITY OF FILLMORE

SR - ADOPTION OF ROPS BUDGET FY 2025-26.PDF

RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends that the Successor Agency Board of Directors: 1. Approve the attached Recognized Obligation Payment Schedule (ROPS) and Administrative Budget and authorize the Executive Director (City Manager) or his designee to submit the ROPS and Administrative Budget for the period July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026 for review and approval by the Ventura County Consolidated Oversight Board (“VCCOB”) and the California Department of Finance (“DOF”); and 2. Authorize the Executive Director or her designee to make any changes needed as directed by the VCCOB or DOF

SUCCESSOR AGENCY

11. COMMITTEE, COMMISSION, AND BOARD REPORTS

12. CITY MANAGER

CITY MANAGER VERBAL REPORT

13. ADJOURNMENT

MAYOR ADJOURNS TO THE NEXT REGULARLY SCHEDULED MEETING AT 6:30 P.M. ON TUESDAY, JANUARY 14 , 2025, CITY HALL, 250 CENTRAL AVENUE, FILLMORE, CA 93015.

Photo credit Gazette Staff. For more updates and information visit https://www.fillmoreca.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=169.
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https://www.fillmoreca.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID =169

Public Works: Posted on: December 5, 2024 | Last Modified on: December 10, 2024
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Date: December 5, 2025

Park Renovation Announcements: Improvements Coming to Two Rivers Park, Rio Vista Park, and Shiells Park
The City of Fillmore is excited to announce a series of renovations aimed at enhancing the recreational facilities and overall visitor experience at Three Rivers Park, Rio Vista Park, and Shiells Park. These improvements will require temporary closures, but they will deliver long-term benefits for the community.

Two Rivers Park, Rio Vista Park, and Shiells Park are closed due to turf and other renovations. The baseball fields at Two Rivers Park, Rio Vista Park, Shiells Park are scheduled to reopen February 1st, while the soccer and football fields at Two Rivers Park will remain closed until the end of July 2025. The Dog Park at Two Rivers Park will remain open during this renovation period.

Two Rivers Park is set to undergo significant improvements aimed at enhancing its sports facilities. As a result, Two Rivers Park will be closed starting in December. The baseball fields will be reopened on February 1st, however, the soccer and football fields will remain closed until the end of July 2025. The Dog Park will remain open throughout this park improvements period. During the closure period, the soccer and football playfields will undergo major turf reconstruction, that includes leveling and fertilizing, and the entire park will be overseeding to improve the quality of the grass. Additionally, the irrigation system of these fields will be upgraded from the current underground drip system to a more efficient overhead sprinkler system. As part of the upgrades, Phase One of our sports field lighting will be installed to illuminate the soccer and football fields, and future Phase Two will illuminate the baseball fields. Other sports facility improvements include the addition of new nets for the park’s batting cages and repainting the Park’s restroom and pergola. These upgrades are designed to create a better experience for both athletes and visitors alike.

Shiells Park will undergo a series of minor yet impactful improvements to enhance its amenities. As a result, the park will be closed during the months of December and January. The park’s turf will be reconditioned, with efforts focused on leveling uneven areas and overseeding dry spots. Public Works will also pressure wash and repaint the entrance gates and various structures throughout the park. The baseball fields will receive several repairs, including leveling the playing surface, replacing the redwood headers, making small updates to the dugouts, and overhauling the irrigation system on Ball Field Two. In addition, the park will add a new set of concrete cornhole boards, replacing the previous horseshoe setup, offering a fun and modern upgrade for visitors of all ages.

Rio Vista Park will be closed during the months of December and January for turf rejuvenation in the gated basin area and around the play equipment and gazebos. This turf reconditioning effort aims to improve the overall health and appearance of the grass areas. The park’s gated basin is typically closed during the rainy season (November through April) as it is designed to capture stormwater from a much larger area than the park and recharge our vital groundwater supply. Therefore, the basin will reopen at the end of April.

For more information or updates about park closures and renovations, please contact Public Works Director Joe Bellomo at (805) 265-0948.

Above is Fillmore’s Perce’s Kenpo Karate Studio’s Professor Michael Torres along with his students who medaled this past weekend at the Jiu Jitsu World League tournament. Pictured (l-r) are Torres, Eric Morales, Jose Ramirez, and Dayana Ramirez who competed at the tournament. See more photos on page 10. Photo credit Emma Torres.
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Pictured above is Perce’s Kenpo Karate’s Fillmore Jiu Jitsu Club’s Emma Lopez raising her hand after defeating her opponent. Photo credit by Emma Torres.
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Story by Michael Torres

Saturday, 11/23/24-Del Mar, CA— The San Diego Jiu Jitsu World League tournament held at the Del Mar Fairgrounds showcased the exceptional talent and dedication of competitors from across the region, including Perce’s Kenpo Karate’s Fillmore Jiu Jitsu Club.

Under the guidance of Professor Michael Torres, a Gracie Humaita Black Belt trained by the renowned Mario Aiello, several club members delivered standout performances that culminated in a series of impressive medal wins.

Jose Ramirez, secured a gold medal in the blue belt heavyweight gi division while earning a silver in no-gi. Ramirez’s strategic approach and powerful techniques were evident as he navigated his matches with composure. His dual medal haul reflects his depth of talent.

Eric Morales, a white belt middleweight competitor, demonstrated remarkable skill and tenacity, earning a gold medal in his division. Morales’s journey through the tournament was marked by strategic grappling and determination, showcasing the foundational techniques he has honed.

Emma Lopez captured gold medals in both the gi and no-gi white belt womens middleweight divisions. Lopez’s performance was a testament to her dedication and adaptability on the mat. Her ability to transition between styles was pivotal to her success. With her double gold triumph, Lopez is quickly establishing herself as a formidable competitor in her class.
Dayana Ramirez showcased her skill and resilience, earning a silver medal in the women’s lightweight white belt no-gi division. Dayana fought fiercely in each match, demonstrating the heart and determination that the sport of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instills in its athletes.

The students’ success at the Jiu Jitsu World League tournament is a testament to the rigorous training and supportive environment fostered by Professor Michael Torres. “I am incredibly proud of the students,” Torres said. “Their hard work and commitment have truly paid off, and I look forward to seeing them continue to grow in their jiu-jitsu journey.”

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a martial art and combat sport that focuses on ground fighting and submission grappling techniques, emphasizing the use of leverage and technique to control and submit opponents. The students train out of Perce’s Kenpo Karate studio off of Highway 126 which offer classes for adults and kids throughout the week. For more information call or text Professor Michael Torres at 805-443-8501 or email fillmorebjj@gmail.com.

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On Tuesday, November 26th, 2024, at 11:14 a.m., Ventura County Fire Department, AMR Paramedics, and California Highway Patrol were dispatched to a two-vehicle collision on westbound SR126 at Peck Road, Santa Paula. According to the CHP Angelica Vazquez Reyes, 59, of Fillmore, was driving a blue Dodge Dakota pickup truck westbound in the number 2 lane. For unknown reasons, she lost control, and the truck traveled into the number 1 lane into the path of a black Mercedes-Benz SUV, driven by a 40-year-old Santa Paula woman. The Dakota pickup truck was t-boned; the broadsided impact caused major damage to both vehicles. On-scene firefighters reported a total of two patients with major injuries, and extricated one patient from the scene. Both women were transported by ambulance to Ventura County Medical Center. The driver of the Dakota pickup truck died at the hospital. The crash closed westbound lanes for about an hour; lanes reopened around 12:30 p.m. Recent rain was a contributing factor to the incident, according to CHP; the CHP’s Ventura-area office is investigating.

Pictured are Paul & Laura Ortega, longtime Piru residents who will be recognized at the Annual Piru Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 14, 2024 at noon, with a festival at the Train Depot Park.
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This year’s Annual Piru Christmas Parade & Festival will take place Saturday, December 14, 2024, at 12pm and will begin at Piru Elementary School and route through Center Street. Immediately following the parade will the be the festival at the Train Depot Park with food, live music, performances, and more for all to enjoy. If you have any questions, call 805-814-6140 or email piruneighborhoodcouncilinc@yahoo.com.

Paul is a lifelong resident of Piru. Paul & Laura met 30 years ago, and Paul proposed to Laura during the Christmas festivities and Laura became a resident of Piru. They have since both been dedicated to our community and have grown their family here. The Ortegas have two children Anissa & Steven, a beautiful daughter-in-law Nikka, and they are expecting their first grandson in February 2025.

Paul has donned the Santa hat and played the jolly character for over thirty years in the Piru Christmas Parade & Festival. He would also be found riding Santa’s sleigh, known in Piru as Engine 28, handing out candy and gifts throughout the town. Paul enjoys bringing smiles and happiness to the children and families of Piru.
Laura has made her mark in her community as well. When her children were attending school, Laura dedicated her time to help start the Friends of Piru PTA group. She also taught catechism for five years at The San Salvador Mission. Laura has filled the role in the past as Piru Neighborhood Council’s Member at Large and she continues today to help with the annual Senior Graduation Dinner event, held at the Newhall Mansion.

Paul and Laura are always willing to help the Piru Neighborhood Council, and our community is blessed from their dedication and care to Piru. They are good examples of what Piru is all about: always ready to help anyone at any time.

Ventura Sheriff’s Office partners with Ventura County Fire Department in Spark of Love Holiday Toy Drive.
The Ventura Sheriff’s Office is partnering with the Ventura County Fire Department in their holiday toy drive. Collection boxes will be located at all sheriff stations. This community campaign is to collect new, unwrapped toys and sports equipment for underserved children and teens in Ventura County. In addition, this campaign is also to support Food Share, to help fight hunger in Ventura County. All non-perishable food and toys can be dropped off any time prior to December 16th.

In 2023, through generous donations from our communities, more than 33,000 local children and teens benefited from the kindness of our community members, businesses, and supporting sponsors. Food Share will also provide food for families served by the toy drive.

Prepared by: Captain Rob Yoos
News Release Date:11/19/2024

By Fillmore Fire Department

The Fillmore Fire Department in conjunction with the Fillmore Fire Foundation is kicking off the annual Holiday Toy Drive this week. Collection drop off boxes for new toys are available at the Fillmore Police and Fire Stations, City Hall and the Bank of the Sierra. As part of the Toy Drive, on Sunday, December 8th, the Fire Foundation will be holding the annual Chicken Dinner Fundraiser to collect donations that will used to purchase hundreds of toys for children in the Fillmore/Piru area. A complete chicken dinner meal is prepared for anyone wanting to donate fifteen dollars ($15) that will be used to purchase a new toy. All meals will be for take-out only and will be available via a drive-thru process, this year the dinner will be held at the Fillmore High School Cafeteria, enter via the Horseshoe entrance off First St. Dinner will be served from 5 -7 PM. In lieu of a $15 donation, a new toy valued at $15 or greater may be donated. The hundreds of toys purchased from this event will be combined with those that are donated by the Community and then distributed on Saturday, December 14, from 9AM-12 PM at a huge Community Holiday Giveaway event. If you would like to donate to the Toy Drive/Community Giveaway or would like to purchase tickets/drop off toys, please call 805-815-0328.

Posted on: November 14, 2024 courtesy https://www.fillmoreca.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=165
City of Fillmore’s Annual Tree Lighting & Night Market – December 1st, 5:00 p.m.
Celebrate the holidays with us in Downtown Fillmore! The City’s Annual Tree Lighting & Night Market is happening on Sunday, December 1st from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. This family-friendly event will be filled with holiday fun, shopping, and new activities for all ages. Mark your calendars and bring your loved ones for a memorable night!

Event Highlights: Tree Lighting Ceremony at 6:00 p.m.
NEW! Fillmore Spirit Business Bingo: Pick up a Bingo Card starting Wednesday, November 27 at participating businesses or the City booth on event day.

How to Play: Visit each of the 9 participating businesses—La Fondita, Estrella Market, Fillmore Town Theater, Scented Path, Cielito Lindo Beauty Salon, Fillmore Family Store, Diamond Realty, and Los Altos Mexican Restaurant—and get your card marked.

Prizes: Turn in your completed card at the City booth for a holiday present! The first nine people to submit a completed card will win a special prize sponsored by our participating businesses.
Raffle: Completed cards also earn entry into our raffle at 6:15 p.m. near the tree lighting. Participants must be present to win.

Snow Play Area hosted by Lemon Tree Embroidery – perfect for kids and families to experience a little winter magic in Fillmore!

Santa Photo Booth: Snap a holiday photo under our ornament with Santa himself.
Live Music & Entertainment: Enjoy festive tunes and performances throughout the night.
Food Trucks and Local Vendors: Grab a bite to eat and explore unique holiday gifts.
Gather your family and friends, and don’t miss out on an enchanting evening in Fillmore! For more details, stay tuned to our website and social media.

On Friday, November 8, 2024, the Original Lowrider Legends presented Fillmore resident Sonia Chessani, member of Good Times Car Club, with the Mentorship Honor Award at the Petersen Museum.
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Above is Sonia Chessani with her son Alexz Chessani after receiving her award.
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On Friday the evening of Friday, November 8, 2024, in Los Angeles, California, at The Petersen Museum, over 450 people were in attendance, where 13 recipients and three car club dynasties were celebrated. Fillmore resident Sonia Chessani is the only female recognized that evening by Host and Master of Ceremonies Joe Ray. Sonia was presented with a ring and the Mentorship Honor Award.

To her surprise weeks before actual presentation, Mr. Ray, previous 14-year Chief Editor of Lowrider Magazine and now Founder/Owner of Original Lowrider and Podcast Show, contacted Sonia to present her with accepting the Mentorship Honor award. After a brief conversation she accepted the honor, and said her first thought was, “Now I have to wear a dress!” Yet she was very grateful to be a recipient.
Sonia is happy she followed her teenage dreams of being in a car club, because when she started out in this passion, females were not easily embraced in the surrounding car club community; most rode with their significant other, or shotgun. Sonia said that she never tried to stand out as a female but wanted to be treated and respected as an equal. With determination and perseverance her dreams all came to favor. It all started when she was given membership and a plaque after her probation and acceptance with Nite Life Car Club of Santa Barbara in mid-80’s.

At present time Sonia has been an active member of Good Times Car Club based in East Los Angeles under Founder Paul Sanchez and Co. Founder late Jesse “Papo” Sanchez, belonging to the Southern California Chapter for 13 years under the direction of President Danny Jaime and Vice President Serafin “Pelon” Romero. Sonia has been heavily involved in the Lowrider Community for over 37 years, starting her passion in the mid 80’s. She commenced in the mini truck era when the Lowrider culture was at its low and evolved into the lowrider scene with her 1978 Oldsmobile Cutlass.

Sonia has traveled over the years thru the States including California, Nevada, Arizona, Colorado, Texas, and Georgia this past year with relative Daniel Gonzalez of Daniels Kreations, as a support member to the Rick Ross Show while her car is currently under a full restoration, due to come out soon. Sonia is also Marketing Director of Lowrider Scene Magazine and is owner of her clothing line Lo Mio Apparel since 2020 which coincides with the Lowrider culture she represents.

Sonia has assisted working car shows over the years, placed in numerous shows, and been awarded several honors. In 2007 she was presented with an award at Long Beach Veterans Stadium “Ladies of Lowriding”. In 2014 Nite Life Ventura Co. Car Club presented her with an award for “Dedication & Commitment” in Ventura, Ca. In 2017 she was presented with an award of recognition by Pachuco Car Club in Oxnard, California at a show dedicated to “Women in Lowriding” for her involvement over the years; and for her 1978 Oldsmobile Cutlass “Lowrider Girl” being featured back-to-back within months of each other in 2017 in Lowrider Magazine and Lowrider Scene Magazine, both published worldwide.

In 2017 at an awards banquet in Las Vegas, Nevada, Good Times Car Club Founder Paul Sanchez presented her with an “Excellence” award for magazine coverage, where she has been a member of Good Times Car Club since 2011. Sonia was also inducted into the National Lowrider Hall of Fame Class of 2019, and now recently chosen as a recipient “Lowrider Legends” Class of 2024.

Sonia says that her biggest honor is to follow in the Chessani Family’s car passion and only wishes her father, the late John Chessani, could be here watching her accomplishments, but is proud to have her mother, Adela, son “Freshh”, and so many friends and supporters who have stood by her side thru her journey over the years.