Ventura · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Ventura public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Proposed data center at Ventura County fairgrounds
Twelve speakers demanded the city ban data centers after the fair board rejected the GlobalStack proposal that morning. The council approved a letter of accountability and will take up a ban ordinance in early 2027.
Proposed GlobalStack Data Center at the Fairgrounds
Residents flooded public comment opposing the proposed AI data center, parking garage, and helipad at the Ventura County Fairgrounds, citing water use, noise, and emergency use of the fairgrounds. The council has already directed staff to bring a letter of opposition on September 15.
City Hall East Boiler Replacement and Electrification
Staff wanted to replace 30-year-old gas boilers with new gas units, but a wave of climate advocates demanded heat pumps ($2.5 million vs. roughly $500,000). The council pulled the item and sent it to a reactivated environmental committee to explore heat pumps, grants and lifecycle costs before summer break.
Water Quality
A resident repeatedly demanded transparency and answers about PFAS 'forever chemicals' in the water supply; the city manager said the water team monitors quality closely with PFAS as a major consideration.
AB 1572 non-functional turf irrigation ban
A new state law bans watering non-functional grass with drinking water at businesses, HOAs, and government properties starting in 2027. Single-family homes are exempt; the city will fold enforcement into its water waste ordinance.