|
Ventura, Calif. – Community members are invited to join staff from the Community Development department for bimonthly coffee chats held throughout the City of Ventura. The first event kicks off on Friday, January 31, 2025, from 8:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. at Lovewell Tea & Coffee, located at 2271 N. Ventura Avenue in west Ventura.
Each coffee chat event offers a friendly, informal environment to discuss community concerns, strengthen relationships, and learn about the department’s ongoing activities.
"The Community Development Department plays a vital role in shaping Ventura by working with boards, commissions, and committees to ensure that housing, buildings, additions, and new construction meet the highest standards for public safety and comply with state regulations," said Mayor Dr. Jeannette Sánchez-Palacios. "As housing becomes increasingly critical, meeting in person provides residents a valuable opportunity to connect with our team, ask questions, and explore the resources available to support their needs."
Community Development is responsible for planning and zoning, building and safety, permit services, code enforcement, housing, and redevelopment for the City of Ventura. The department works to ensure that new construction and additions to existing structures meet State laws and local regulations that have been established for public safety, zoning, and development.
"Community Development is essential to shaping Ventura’s future and supporting our local economy," said Community Development Director Rachel Dimond. "Our 45-member team has streamlined the development process, transitioned permit services online, and adapted quickly to ensure projects stay on track. We encourage businesses, developers, and community members to take this opportunity to connect with us, ask questions, and discuss their needs in a welcoming, one-on-one setting."
The Community Development Department has contributed to many important City Council goals and initiatives in the last several years. This includes an Inclusionary Housing Ordinance for building more affordable units, creating an expanded Permit Services Division and Housing Services Division, launching the General Plan Update process, and improving the historic preservation process.
For more information about the Community Development department and to stay updated on ongoing events at www.cityofventura.ca.gov/CommunityDevelopment.
# # #
| 
