April 2025 Newsletter

Council Update

We had two Council Meetings and a Workshop on the General Plan Update in March, these are some of the items we took action on:

• City Council adopted a resolution to re-establish the Youth Commission and approve the application and bylaws. Result: Approved 5-0.

• City Council adopted a resolution approving a plan of finance including the issuance of revenue bonds by the California Municipal Finance Authority to finance and refinance the acquisition, construction, development and equipping of a 179-unit qualified residential rental project to be located at 712 Seagaze Drive. Result: Approved 4-1. (Sanchez - No).

• A request by Mayor Sanchez and Deputy Mayor Joyce to change the standard of review of appeals to the City Council from Planning Commission decisions - When a council member or member of the public appeals a planning commission decision to the City Council, the Council shall be able to review the decision de novo and not be limited to the specific points raised in the appeal. The Council shall be able to review the entire record of the appeal. Result: Approved 3-2. (Robinson, Weiss - No).

• City Council adopted a resolution authorizing the submittal of an application for a Public Beach Restoration Program grant to the State of California Department of Parks and Recreation, Division of Boating and Waterways (DBW), and authorizing the City Manager, in consultation with the City Attorney, to negotiate and execute all agreements and amendments necessary to comply with the DBW grant requirements. Approved: 5-0.

• City Council received an update on the City’s Tobacco Retailer License program.

• City Council introduced an ordinance amending Sections 15.63 and 15.68, and adding Section 15.69 of the Oceanside City Code to modify existing Sidewalk Vending regulations. Approved: 5-0.

• A request by Mayor Sanchez and Councilmember Figueroa to register Ivey Ranch Park land and the Old Farm House at Ivey Ranch Park, each separately, as Historic, with the City of Oceanside, State of California and National Register. Approved 3-2. (Robinson, Weiss - No).

Our next City Council meeting will be on Wednesday, April 9th, 2025 at 5:00pm.

For summaries of all City Council meetings, please click here.

Workshop Update

The City Council recently held a workshop to receive a comprehensive report on the City’s General Plan Update (GPU) and Climate Action Plan (CAP) efforts to-date and provide direction to staff on the GPU and CAP for future City Council consideration and adoption.

A motion was made to direct staff to remove all references to clustered housing and bring back the community plan for discussion after the general plan update is approved: Sanchez. Second: Figueroa. Approved: 3-2 (Robinson, Weiss - No).

I requested my opposition to this motion be clearly noted as I view this motion to be detrimental to the goal of preserving farmland. It also minimizes the cumulative voices of the residents and farmers of South Morro Hills.

 Getting Out in the Community in January

I attended the Oceanside Chamber of Commerce’s Emerging Issues Forum. This event provides members with a chance to stay informed and connect with community leaders. In March, the Boys and Girls Clubs of Northwest San Diego shared an update on their recent merger and highlighted their Youth Workforce Readiness Program, The Lunch Box. The forum also featured updates from local legislative representatives. Thank you to the Chamber for hosting another successful Emerging Issues Forum.

The League of California Cities Public Safety Policy Committee held a meeting in March. We covered a range of critical topics which included a legislative review of bills like AB 992 and SB 385, which address peace officer education requirements, and AB 75, focused on insurance notification for aerial imagery. We also received an informative update on 2025 wildfires and a presentation on the CARE Court initiative from the Governor’s Office. It was a productive session, offering valuable insights into public safety and legislative priorities impacting California cities.

I recently attended one of the Oceanside Police Department’s Community Listening Sessions, hosted by Chief Valdovinos. The event provided a platform for residents to share their questions and concerns directly with the Chief, fostering open dialogue about community safety. It was part of a series of meetings held across different locations. The Oceanside Police Department’s initiative reflects their commitment to engaging with the community, and it was a meaningful opportunity to connect with local law enforcement on issues that matter most to Oceanside residents. Please click here to view Chief Valdovinos's letter to the community after concluding all listening sessions.

I attended the Oceanside Police Department’s ceremony celebrating promotions, new hires, and a swearing-in for several officers. The event recognized individuals advancing in their roles, welcomed new team members, and honored both academy graduates and lateral officers joining the force. It was a meaningful occasion highlighting the department’s growth and dedication to serving Oceanside.

I joined a special tour of the Bob Maxwell Memorial Airfield, also known as Oceanside Municipal Airport, organized for the Mayor and Councilmembers. Representatives from KDG Aviation, LLC, the City’s Operator and Tenant, guided the tour and were available to address questions. The event offered a valuable opportunity to learn more about the airport’s operations and its role in Oceanside.

I had the pleasure of revisiting Pro Kids, First Tee to reconnect and meet new staff. It was great to see the impact of their programs and hear updates on their mentorship and youth development initiatives. I remain committed to supporting opportunities that empower our local youth and look forward to continued collaboration.

The Oceanside Chamber of Commerce recently hosted another Rising Star Student of the Month Award Ceremony! This is one of my favorite events to attend every month. I always leave feeling inspired by the incredible stories of our students who excel in their studies despite significant adversity. Congratulations to the students who were recognized:

• Anthony Osuna, Surfside Academy
• Katelynn Matkins, Oceanside High School
• Jazmine Turchiano, El Camino High School
• Hope Allen, Coastal Academy High School
• Francisco J. Sandoval, Pacific View Charter School

I had the opportunity to attend Fire Ops 101, also known as "Firefighter for a Day." For the first time, this event was hosted in collaboration with the Vista Fire Department. While I was mostly a spectator, it was incredible to watch firsthand as firefighters demonstrated life-saving techniques, including the Jaws of Life, search and rescue operations, and fire suppression tactics. The event brought together local leaders, elected officials, and community stakeholders to gain a deeper appreciation for the challenges firefighters face every day. Thank you to the Oceanside and Vista Fire Departments for hosting a great event!

What's New in District 2?