Simi Valley · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Simi Valley public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
New Transit Center at Civic Center site
Simi Valley is replacing its interim transit stop on Tapo Canyon Road with a permanent transit center at Tapo Canyon and Avenida Simi, featuring eight bus bays, a solar canopy and electric bus chargers. It moves buses out of the bike lane and should improve safety, but neighbors worry about traffic near the library and tree losses.
Short Term Rental concerns
A resident told the commission that all four Simi Valley neighborhood councils voted to reject the city's proposed short-term rental rules, backing a 435-signature petition for an outright ban instead. The rules will eventually come before the Planning Commission.
Business License Revocation
Simi Valley has revoked business licenses for three massage parlors, according to KTLA, as part of a local crackdown on business oversight. If you live nearby or care about how the city regulates storefront businesses, this is a direct example of enforcement.
Redistricting
Get ready, Simi Valley! A new redistricting plan might split us from Ventura County, changing who represents us and how our votes count. It's still up in the air, but it could shake up local and state politics.
City Staff Appointment
Simi Valley's got a new deputy city manager, poached from Ventura! This hire used to be a public information officer, so get ready for some potentially smoother communication coming out of City Hall.
Homelessness Services
Simi Valley is bringing in a private company, Trackdown Management, to tackle homeless encampments and offer support services. The goal is to clean up areas and help those experiencing homelessness find solutions.
City Manager Appointment
Simi Valley's City Council has a new City Manager! This person will be in charge of the city's daily operations, so it's a pretty important hire for how things get done around here.
Zoning Dispute
Simi Valley lost a court battle over a senior housing project it tried to block. A judge ruled against the city's zoning decision, paving the way for the project to move forward.
City Manager Departure
Our city manager is heading out the door to take a job in another city. It was a tough decision for them, and now Simi Valley needs to find a new leader to keep things running smoothly.
Open Meeting Law Violation
Looks like some Simi Valley council members might have been breaking the law by holding secret meetings. The DA's office says they violated open-meeting rules, which is a big deal for how transparent City Hall is.
Public Hearing
Simi Valley residents packed a public hearing to voice their opinions on SB 54, and things got heated. The discussion centered around the implications of this state legislation for the community.
Sanctuary Law Opposition
Simi Valley's City Council is making it official: they're pushing back against California's sanctuary state law. This means they won't be cooperating with state officials on immigration enforcement.
Sanctuary State Discussion
Simi Valley is talking about the sanctuary state issue again. Expect a lively debate at the June 25th city council meeting.
Sanctuary Laws
Simi Valley is taking a stand against California's sanctuary laws, becoming the first city in the county to do so. This decision could change how the city works with state immigration policies.
Cannabis Legalization
Weed is now legal, and Simi Valley is working out the kinks. Get ready to learn the new rules for cannabis in our city.
Waste Management Contract
Simi Valley is handing over its trash collection to a single company, Waste Management. This means one company will likely handle all your garbage and recycling pickup going forward.
Pipeline Agreement
Simi Valley is looking to renew a deal for an underground oil pipeline. Details are still emerging, but it's a significant agreement that could impact the city.