Ventura · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Ventura public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
$302 Million Wastewater Treatment Plant Rebuild
The council locked in the funding to finish replacing the 70-year-old treatment plant, reusing existing tanks to avoid $16 million in demolition costs. Ratepayers will fund it through low-interest loans and bonds — and one commenter warned loudly about water rates and PFAS concerns.
E-bike harassment and safety at Kimball Park
A fire captain described targeted harassment of swim families by a group on e-bikes and asked for an emergency ban. The police department is developing ordinance upgrades, and the council referred the e-bike issue to the Parks and Recreation Commission.
Main Street revitalization
The council adopted the long-term vision for the pedestrianized downtown — activity nodes, mosaics, a stage at California Street — plus a parklet replacement deadline and near-term ADA and furniture spending from ~$600,000 in rollover funds. Farmers market and merchants raised compatibility concerns.
Glue trap sale and use ban amendment
The council adopted the glue trap ban 4-2 but the county Ag Commissioner warned it could ban official invasive-pest insect traps, risking more pesticide use. Staff will bring back a clarifying amendment April 28, possibly as an urgency ordinance.