Council Update
March was another busy month! Here is a recap of some of the City Council's actions last month. We introduced an Ordinance to amend Chapter 5 of the Oceanside City Code in order to align the City Code with changes in laws, regulations, and best practices concerning the operation of regulated mobility devices (including e-bikes) within the City limits. We received the Sustainable Tourism Master Plan from our Economic Development Manager, Michelle Geller. Council adopted a resolution amending the Fire Department Junior Lifeguard fees to help cover the cost of operating the program. We also approved the Mayor's appointments to various city advisory groups. For a more thorough overview of the Council's actions in March, please click here for the Council Meeting Minutes for all meetings.
Our next Council Meeting will be held on April 10th, 2024 at 5:00pm.
Getting Out in the Community
I attended various community events/meetings in the month of March. First, Cal Cities San Diego County Division had a virtual meeting where we heard the latest updates on proposed State legislation and the potential impact these bills will have at the local level. I attended a press conference hosted at the new Frontwave Arena. I had a productive meeting with a group of concerned residents regarding traffic safety in a specific area of the district. I am always happy to address your concerns or provide clarity for anything happening in District 2. The Utilities Commission met where we heard updates on the San Diego County Water Authority, the Sewer Report, and discussed various items requesting funds for different resources and services needed by the Water Utilities Department. The Oceanside Chamber of Commerce hosted their Rising Star of the Month Breakfast where we honored high school students here in the city who excel despite significant adversity. The Board of Directors for the North County Transit District met where we welcomed new CEO, Shawn Donaghy. The Police and Fire Commission had a meeting where we heard updates from the Chiefs of both departments. I attended a meeting on behalf of the Cal Cities Public Safety Committee up in Burbank where different Cal Cities subcommittees gathered to review proposed policy. The Oceanside Chamber of Commerce also hosted their annual "Meet the City" event, I had a great time interfacing with civically engaged residents and would like to extend my appreciation to the Chamber for an incredible event! Lastly, Solutions for Change, a Vista based nonprofit committed to solving family homelessness, hosted a Hero Circle Brunch celebrating the 25th year of the organization and all the community heroes who keep the program going.
Reynolds Elementary School Site
I recently had a discussion with the OUSD Superintendent in regard to actions being taken at the now closed Reynolds Elementary School site. In the next few weeks, you will notice that the permanent structures will be demolished and the grounds cleared. The portable classrooms have already been sold and removed. I have been assured that the OUSD has not had any discussion as to what to do with the property. The reason for taking the structures down is to eliminate the attractive nuisance these empty buildings may cause. Should the District decide to sell the property, the City will be notified prior to entertaining any public offers. At this time the City has not indicated or had any council level discussion in regard to purchasing the property. I am providing this information so that you and your neighbors will have factual information and not heed the rumors that will surely follow the future work to be done. When I know of any actions regarding either the sale or development plans for this property, I will do my best to get that information in the public domain.
Should you have questions or concerns, please let me know by using my city email address, rwrobinson@oceansideca.org Please share this information with your neighbors and those who may have an interest in the work being done. Like so many in our District, my children were Reynolds Raccoons, and the school served as a hub for many activities. The school’s closure was a sad event for all of us who live within its boundaries. While I cannot promise what will become of the property, I assure you that I am staying in touch with the OUSD and will advocate for a use that serves the community interest.
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