Ventura Voices

In this episode of Ventura Voices, we're diving into one of Ventura's most urgent issues—wildfire prevention. With memories of the 2017 Thomas Fire still fresh and new wildfires threatening communities across California each year, we sit down with two wildfire safety leaders to discuss how Ventura residents can prepare and protect.Ventura Fire Marshal Brett Reed and Stephen Watson, Executive Director of the Ventura Regional Fire Safe Council, join Senior Communications Specialist Emily Ayala to unpack the tools and tactics that help prevent the next big fire. From creating defensible space and hardening your home to understanding CAL FIRE's draft fire hazard severity zone maps and the power of Firewise USA communities, this episode is packed with practical tips and inspiring local stories.Let this episode be your spark for change.Resources from the episode:- Fire Hazard Reduction Program: Cityofventura.ca.gov/FHRP - CAL FIRE's draft Fire Hazard Severity Zone map for Ventura: Cityofventura.ca.gov/FHSZ - Free Home Wildfire Assessments: venturafiresafe.org/home-wildfire-assessments/ - Firewise USA: https://venturafiresafe.org/firewiseusa/ - VC Alert: https://www.readyventuracounty.org/vc-alert/

Public Information Officer Jennifer Nance sits down with Fire Chief David Endaya and Ventura Water General Manager Gina Dorrington for an insightful discussion on the intersection of fire and water and how both departments work together to protect Ventura. In light of the recent destructive Palisades, Eaton, Hughes, and Mountain Fires, they explore the critical role of fire suppression, water infrastructure, and emergency preparedness. The conversation also takes a look back at the Thomas Fire, reflecting on its lasting impact and the significant changes made over the past seven years to strengthen Ventura's resilience. Learn more about emergency preparedness in Ventura at www.cityofventura.ca.gov/EmergencyPreparedness.Find details about water conservation, rebates, and incentives: https://www.cityofventura.ca.gov/ConservationOpt-in to receive emergency notifications through VC Alert at vcalert.org.

Deputy City Manager Brick Conners joins Communications Specialist Taylor Pineda to discuss one of our most requested topics yet—golf. Brick shares updates on multiple projects at the City's two municipal golf courses, Buenaventura and Olivas Links. Learn about the progress and challenges in rebuilding Buenaventura after severe flooding in 2023, a temporary solution for golfers this spring, and upcoming facility improvements at Olivas Links. Stay up to date at www.cityofventura.ca.gov/Golf

Communications Specialist Emily Ayala sits down with PIO Jen Buckley, Emergency Services Manager Mack Douglass, and newly promoted Fire Battalion Chief Shawn Hughes for an in-depth conversation on emergency communications in Ventura. In this episode, they dive into the importance of timely and accurate information during crises, sharing insights from recent local incidents, including the Pierpont gas leak and major flooding events. The team also breaks down how VC Alert works, why it's crucial for residents to stay informed, and the collaborative efforts between City departments that keep our community safe. Learn more about emergency preparedness in Ventura at CityofVentura.ca.gov/EmergencyPreparedness. Opt-in to receive emergency notifications throguh VC Alert at vcalert.org Recommended apps to download: - Watch Duty app for nearby wildfire and firefighter response information: app.watchduty.org/ - MyShake app for earthquake early notification: myshake.berkeley.edu/

Communications Specialist Emily Ayala interviews Ventura Fire Chief David Endaya as he provides an in-depth look at the structure of the Ventura Fire Department, highlights recent success stories, and discusses key initiatives to enhance community safety. Chief Endaya also shares exciting details about the upcoming build of Fire Station 7 and its importance in preparing for the future of fire response in Ventura. Learn more about the Ventura Fire Department at CityofVentura.ca.gov/Fire.

Join Homeless Services Manager Leona Rollins and Ventura Police Sergeant Eric Vazquez with Communications Specialist Emily Ayala to discuss homelessness and vagrancy in Ventura. Leona highlights the decrease in local homelessness, the rise in people accepting shelter beds, and the five-year homelessness plan. Eric details the Patrol Task Force's efforts, distinguishes vagrancy from homelessness, shares success stories, and addresses a recent Supreme Court ruling. Tune in to learn about local City services and the Police Department's actions to improve quality of life. For resources, visit CityofVentura.ca.gov/HomelessServices 

City Clerk Michael MacDonald and Public Information Officer Heather Sumagaysay discuss the upcoming elections. They dive into the city's upcoming elections and the voting process. In this episode, we'll cover: The voting process and key dates to remember. How you can participate in boards, committee, and commission meetings. The availability of virtual City Council meetings. Spanish live two-way interpretation services to ensure everyone can participate. Don't miss this comprehensive overview from the City Clerk, designed to keep you informed and engaged in Ventura's democratic process.

Ventura Police Traffic Corporal David Curtis joins Communications Specialist Emily Ayala to discuss electric bicycles. E-bike safety, reckless riding, and enforcement have become a significant concern for our community, and we want to address these topics head-on. In this episode, we cover the various e-bike classifications, electric motorcycle regulations, state and local laws surrounding appropriate use, and information about what the Ventura PD is doing to educate residents and enforce laws on this topic.   This episode is especially great for parents of teens and adolescents. Learn more about the e-bike regulations in Ventura at CityofVentura.ca.gov/EBikes

 Join City of Ventura's Economic Development Manager, Meredith Hart, and Marlyss Auster, President/CEO of Visit Ventura, as they sit down with Public Information Officer Heather Sumagaysay. In this episode, Meredith and Marlyss share the excitement of bringing the X Games back to Ventura for the second year in a row. They dive into the economic boost for the community, address traffic and parking concerns, and give insights into the athletes and much more. Tune in to get an inside look at what it takes to host one of the most thrilling sports events in the world right here in Ventura!

Meet Ventura's Police Chief Darin Schindler, interviewed by Communications Specialist Emily Ayala. Chief Schindler reflects on his challenging first year, discussing crime statistics, habitual offenders, and vagrancy in Ventura. He introduces the Racial Identity and Profiling Act (RIPA) data dashboard (CityofVentura.ca.gov/RIPA) for enhanced transparency in policing. Gain insights into the rise of Fentanyl use and hear how detectives solved a 33-year-old cold case, bringing closure to a decades-old mystery (CityofVentura.ca.gov/ColdCases). This episode is essential for anyone invested in Ventura's safety and well-being. Learn more about the Ventura Police Department at VenturaPD.org.

Meet City Manager Bill Ayub, interviewed by Public Information Officer Heather Sumagaysay. Bill shares his transition from law enforcement to city management and discusses the importance of leadership in uplifting communities and motivating employees. The conversation delves into the city council's goal-setting process, focusing on achievable objectives like exploring financial opportunities, tenant protections, homelessness, sustainability, enhancing public services, and more. Overall, the episode sets the tone for future discussions on Ventura's progress, public transparency, and community engagement. www.cityofventura.ca.gov

Ventura Voices, a new podcast series by the City of Ventura, connects residents with the staff and leaders, making decisions for Ventura's future. Listen on the go, or watch the video version on our YouTube channel to find the latest information on what's happening in our community.