Jonathan Royas

The committee held a special meeting to receive a presentation regarding the Draft Downtown Specific Plan. This plan is designed to guide future development, land use, and infrastructure within the downtown area, replacing the previous 1998 plan. The committee reviewed the progress of the plan's development, including community outreach efforts and the public review process. Staff provided recommendations for committee members to receive the presentation, review the draft documents, and provide feedback to facilitate future adoption hearings.

The committee addressed several transit and public works matters. Key topics included a future budget deficit for transit services, where staff were directed to prepare various service reduction and budget adjustment scenarios. The committee concurred with a request to remove overnight parking restrictions on Millard Street, which will be forwarded to the City Council. Additionally, the committee approved the removal of landscaping on Miller Parkway to improve traffic safety and pedestrian access, and reviewed the necessity of parking permit restrictions in residential areas near local schools and parks, requesting a follow-up evaluation after the next permit cycle.

The meeting involved work on subcommittee goals and events, and planning for upcoming presentations to the City Council regarding the impact and goals of the Teen Council. Participants received a presentation on college admissions and job interview tips, and reviewed scholarship opportunities. Additionally, the group discussed interest in conducting a tour of the Police Department and the possibility of hosting a future meeting at the Fire Department.

The committee discussed and recommended the adoption of the 2026 Legislative Platform Update to guide the city's legislative and intergovernmental activities. Additionally, the committee approved the recommendation to reestablish policy regarding Warrant Issuance and Signing Authority within the City Council Policies.

The Regular Meeting of the Community and Economic Development Standing Committee focused on considering input regarding the Proposed High Street Entertainment Zone. This discussion followed the authorization of such zones by Senate Bill 969. Staff presented three management models for the zone: Internal Management, Event-Based Management (tied to Temporary Use Permits), and Third-Party Management. The discussion detailed the operational scope, boundary definitions (High Street between Moorpark Avenue and Spring Road), eligible licensees, and necessary compliance requirements, including security and liability waivers. Staff also analyzed the fiscal impact, comparing it to a larger proposal in Ventura, and noted that costs for existing events would not result in a net increase. The committee was recommended to direct staff to develop a draft ordinance and management plan for a two-year pilot program utilizing the event-based model, including further legal evaluation of including the privately-owned High Street Depot property lawn.