By Sheryl Hamlin
The impetus for the creation of the Facilities and Infrastructure Standing Committee arose from the $22 million relocation plan proposed by former City Manager Rock where the city services would be bifurcated between the United Water Conservation District and Lemonwood.
Read those past articles here:
Police and Corporation Yard Relocation
Historian Mitch Stone reflects
At the November 6, 2019 Santa Paula City Council meeting, newly apppointed City Manager Singer stated that the condition of the city’s buildings has been well known for 20 years but has worsened during the last decade. However, many citizens expressed concern about a $20 million bond debt as well as moving the Civic Center out of down town.
The Standing Committer was formed in response to this process and citizens’ concerns. The resulting recommendations included a $150,000 new roof for the Community Development building, $50,000 for HVAC/ventilation for the employee area at City Hall and an as-yet undetermined amount for the refurbishment/replacement of the portable building housing the detectives.
Council Discussion
Council Member Juarez, a member of the Standing Committee, said that health and safety concerns of employees predominated the discussions. Vice Mayor Araiza stated that they could start next year with the creation of a master plan over a period of several years pending the budget situation for FY 19-20.
Council Member Crosswhite said that the city had spent a “boatload” on consultants for plans which have never materialized, specifically citing the corporation yard, saying that after the plan was developed there were no funds to execute the plan.
The motion to accept the committee’s recommendations was modified to include language for identifying funds in advance of spending design monies.
To watch the video click here: Video
For more information about author: sherylhamlin dot com
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