PH Councilman Jim Hensley Responds to VC Star Editorial
By Jim Hensley
RE: VC Star Editorial “Vote no on Port Hueneme sales tax increase.”
This is an interesting editorial, some of it on target, some just conjecture presented without examination or investigation.
Councilman Rejecting Beach Front Hotel: I explained in an earlier letter to the editor, initially I assumed two beach hotels would be a winner. However, when checking details, evidence led me to believe the prospective sale of the beach property by the port had too many flaws.
- No plans, strategies or mention of requisite infrastructure.
- No Coastal Commission preliminary approval which could take years only to fail.
- It appeared the sale of the beach acreage was discounted below market value.
- Two beach hotels plus a separate three-story parking building would block the picturesque ocean view of those who may have invested in their homes.
- If the sale were completed, it could take for several years to complete construction.
Measure “U” Sales tax: I insist Port Hueneme has a positive fiscal standing, however, after four years serving on the council, I’d feel wary of how the city spends any additional tax revenues. If Measure “U” had a sunset clause of two or four years, I would have maybe been more receptive. City Management explained we only had this 2018 election to put the matter on the ballot or accept an option of a property tax assessed by one’s property in proximity of the beach. My investigation shows additional 1¢ tax on each dollar would be shared by shoppers from all over, not just Hueneme.
Watching the city over the last four years with the previously approved city utility taxes and sales taxes blatantly squandered. I hope if Measure “U” is approved, new income won’t be misused, like former tax increases went to the general fund and prior elected officials. joked about fooling the public.
Infighting, alleged harassment: Expensive claims by former employees: yes, infighting has simmered for several years. Why? Because the old guard council and senior management staff operated like a fiefdom, punishing and or terminating whistle blowers. In my case the last four they insisted I vote the “Will of the Council” not the “Will of the People.” Management and certain council members attempted to block my enquiring questions regarding senior staff actions and salaries; what I called “backdoor raises”, bonuses, promotion etc…” All of it during a city financial crisis with a looming bankruptcy; despite a moratorium preventing lower staff pay raises, while police officers, staff and councilpersons volunteered temporary pay and/or benefit decreases. Some suffered reduced pay of more than $400 to $800 per month.
Myth: Port Hueneme PD salaries are not the highest now, however excessive amounts of overtime drastically increases the budget. Promises to the Police: “When the city became more solvent reductions would be restored when feasible.” The city needs to fulfill their promises.
Lawsuit: Yes, I’ve witnessed more than nine complaints and lawsuits, by staff terminated who questioned unethical /possible illegal practices. The messengers were publicly vilified to discredit them. Defending myself, I filed a counter-suit through my attorney Sam Galici, because the former Deputy City Manager initiated a lawsuit against me for alleged harassment. The faux “Hang Him” public trial before the council was enough to seek legal justification, as I wasn’t notified of the faux trial. The city council skillfully staged and orchestrated a slanderous proceeding with a handful of loyal city factions providing false testimony. Even more egregious; I wasn’t allowed to speak or present evidence on my behalf thereby violating my constitutional rights. It’s all available on YouTube.
Let’s continue getting a grip on government. Vote this Tuesday!
Jim Hensley,
Port Hueneme, CA
805-366-5116
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