March 20, 2024

VENTURA PORT DISTRICT
BOARD OF PORT COMMISSIONERS
Michael Blumenberg, Chair
Jackie Gardina, Vice-Chair
Anthony Rainey, Secretary
Brian Brennan, Commissioner
Chris Stephens, Commissioner
Brian D. Pendleton, General Manager
Todd Mitchell, Sr. Business Operations Manager
Tom Bunn, Legal Counsel
Jessica Rauch, Clerk of the Board
REGULAR MEETING
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 20, 2024
VENTURA PORT DISTRICT OFFICE
1603 ANCHORS WAY DRIVE
VENTURA, CA 93001
CLOSED SESSION – 6:30PM
OPEN SESSION – 7:00PM
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PUBLIC COMMENT VIA ZOOM
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To submit written comments on a specific agenda item, please do so via email by 4:00PM on the day of the
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Public Comment or Consent Item A). Written comments should be no more than 1,000 characters in length.
Written comments will be distributed to the Commission and will be posted as a supplemental packet on the
District’s website at https://venturaharbor.com/board-meeting-documents/. Please submit your comment to
the Clerk of the Board at jrauch@venturaharbor.com.
Ventura Port District – Regular Meeting Agenda
March 20, 2024
CALL TO ORDER: By Chair Michael Blumenberg.
ROLL CALL: By the Clerk of the Board.
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS (3 minutes)
The Public Communications period is set aside to allow public testimony on items only on the Closed
Session Agenda. Each person may address the Commission for up to three minutes or at the discretion of
the Chair.
CLOSED SESSION AGENDA
1. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATORS – PER GOVERNMENT CODE
SECTION 54956.8:
a) Property:
District Negotiators:
Negotiating Parties:
Under Negotiation:
1559 Spinnaker Drive #202A
Brian D. Pendleton, Todd Mitchell, Tom Bunn
Diane Nastasi dba Just About Faces
Price and Terms of Payment for Amendment of Office Lease
Agreement
b) Property:
District Negotiators:
Negotiating Parties:
Under Negotiation:
1583 Spinnaker Drive #104A
Brian D. Pendleton, Todd Mitchell, Tom Bunn
Katherine & James E. Adams dba Lemon & Lei
Price and Terms of Payment for Month-to-Month Retail Lease
ADJOURNMENT
CALL TO ORDER: By Chair Michael Blumenberg.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: By Chair Michael Blumenberg.
ROLL CALL: By the Clerk of the Board.
ADOPTION OF AGENDA
Consider and approve, by majority vote, minor revisions to agenda items and/or attachments and any item
added to or removed/continued from the Port Commission’s agenda. Administrative Reports relating to this
agenda and materials related to an item on this agenda submitted after distribution of the agenda packet
are available for public review at the Port District’s office located at 1603 Anchors Way Drive, Ventura, CA
during business hours as well as on the District’s website – www.venturaharbor.com.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The Minutes of the March 6, 2024 Port Commission Regular Meeting will be considered for approval.
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS
The Public Communications period is set aside to allow public testimony on items not on today’s agenda.
Each person may address the Commission for up to three minutes or at the discretion of the Chair.
CLOSED SESSION
6:30PM
CONVENE IN CLOSED SESSION
OPEN SESSION
7:00PM
Ventura Port District – Regular Meeting Agenda
March 20, 2024
CLOSED SESSION REPORT
Closed Sessions are not open to the public pursuant to the Brown Act. Any reportable actions taken by the
Commission during Closed Session will be announced at this time.
BOARD COMMUNICATIONS
Port Commissioner’s may present brief reports on port issues, such as seminars, meetings and literature
that would be of interest to the public and/or Commission, as a whole. Port Commissioner’s must provide
a brief summary and disclose any discussions he or she may have had with any Port District Tenants
related to Port District business.
STAFF AND GENERAL MANAGER REPORTS
Ventura Port District Staff, Legal Counsel and General Manager will give the Commission updates on
important topics or items of general interest if needed.
CONSENT AGENDA:
Matters appearing on the Consent Calendar are expected to be non-controversial and will be acted upon
by the Board at one time, without discussion, unless a member of the Board or the public requests an
opportunity to address any given item. Approval by the Board of Consent Items means that the
recommendation is approved along with the terms set forth in the applicable staff reports.
A) Approval of Out-of-Town Travel Requests
Recommended Action: Voice Vote.
That the Board of Port Commissioners approve the out-of-town travel requests for:
a) John Higgins, Harbormaster to attend the California Boating Safety Officers Association’s
symposium from April 7-11, 2024 in Lake Tahoe, CA.
b) John Higgins, Harbormaster to attend the California Water Safety Coalition Summit from April
16-17, 2024 in Folsom, CA.
c) Todd Mitchell, Sr. Business Operations Manager to attend the American Society of Civil
Engineers – COPRI Ports & Harbors Committee Meeting from April 11-12, 2024 in San Diego,
CA.
d) Todd Mitchell, Sr. Business Operations Manager to attend the CMANC Conference from May
15-17, 2024 in San Diego, CA.
B) Approval of a New Office Lease Agreement with Da Vega Fisher Mechtenberg LLP and
Trinidad Entertainment Corporation for 1567 Spinnaker Drive #201 and #202
Recommended Action: Voice Vote.
That the Board of Port Commissioners approve a new Office Lease Agreement between the
Ventura Port District dba Ventura Harbor Village and Da Vega Fisher Mechtenberg LLP and
Trinidad Entertainment Corporation for the premises located at 1567 Spinnaker Drive #201 and
#202 consisting of approximately 1,500 square feet for a three-year term with one two-year option.
C) Approval of 2024 Lifeguard Services Contract
Recommended Action: Voice Vote.
That the Board of Port Commissioners authorize the General Manager to enter into a contract
with the Department of Parks and Recreation to provide Lifeguard Services from mid-May 2024
through Labor Day 2024 at Harbor Cove and Surfers Knoll beaches in the amount of $158,125.93.
Ventura Port District – Regular Meeting Agenda
March 20, 2024
STANDARD AGENDA:
1) Presentation by Ocean Rainforest, Inc. regarding a Proposed Macro Algae Farm
Proximate to Ventura Harbor
Recommended Action: Voice Vote.
That the Board of Port Commissioners:
1) Receive a presentation from Ocean Rainforest, Inc. regarding their proposed project for a
commercial macro algae (kelp) farm proximate to Ventura Harbor.
2) Authorize the General Manager to execute letters and provide public comment to
regulatory and resource agencies in support of Ocean Rainforest’s proposed project for a
commercial macro algae (kelp) farm proximate to Ventura Harbor.
2) Approval of a Holdover Agreement and License Agreement with TBBW Company, L.P.
for premises at 1198 Navigator Drive, Parcel 17 and Approval of an Exclusive Negotiating
Agreement with TBBW Company, L.P. and Aldersgate Investment II LLC for premises at
1198 Navigator Drive, Parcel 17 (landside only).
Recommended Action: Voice Vote.
1) That the Board of Port Commissioners approve each of:
i. a Holdover Agreement between the Ventura Port District and TBBW
Company, L.P. for the premises located a 1198 Navigator Drive (waterside
portion of the premises only), (a) bifurcating the premises under the existing
expiring lease into waterside premises and landside premises, (b) changing
the tenancy under the existing Master Lease to a holdover for the waterside
premises only, in connection with entitlements and approvals of a
modernization of the marina operated at the waterside premises, (c) and
creating a Construction Fund to offset construction of the modernization
project, and
ii. a License Agreement between the Ventura Port District and TBBW
Company, L.P. for the premises located a 1198 Navigator Drive (landside
portion of the premises only) to allow the continued and historical use of the
landside premises, i.e., providing marina service facilities to the marina
located at the waterside premises.
2) That the Board of Port Commissioners approve an Exclusive Negotiating
Agreement between the Ventura Port District and TBBW Company, L.P. and
Aldersgate Investment II LLC for the premises located a 1198 Navigator Drive
(landside portion of the premises only) for a three-year term with three (3) twelve
(12) month extensions upon the satisfaction of certain milestones in connection
with a proposed development and operation of a mixed-use/residential
development at the premises.
3) Approval of Amendment No. 1 to a Restaurant Lease Agreement with Aarmark Beer
Garden, Inc. DBA The Loose Cannon
Recommended Action: Voice Vote.
That the Board of Port Commissioners approve Amendment No. 1 to the Restaurant Lease
Agreement between Aarmark Beer Gardens, Inc. a California corporation DBA The Loose
Cannon, and the Ventura Port District dba Ventura Harbor Village, for the premises located at
1567 Spinnaker Drive, Suite #100 consisting of approximately 5,736 square feet of commercial
space and 600 of patio area.
Ventura Port District – Regular Meeting Agenda
March 20, 2024
4) Approval of a Statement of Work Under the Existing Professional Services Agreement
with MRI Software
Recommended Action: Voice Vote.
That the Board of Port Commissioners approve a Statement of Work under the existing
Professional Services Agreement with MRI Software for an amount of $27,880 plus
reimbursement of travel costs estimated at $5,000.
ADJOURNMENT
This agenda was posted on March 15, 2024 by 5:30 p.m. at the Port District Office and online at

Board Meeting Documents


In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please contact
the Ventura Port District at (805) 642-8538 or the California Relay Service at 711 or (800) 855-7100. Notification 72 hours prior to
the meeting will enable the District to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility. (28 CFR 35.102.35.104 ADA Title II)
BOARD OF PORT COMMISSIONERS
MARCH 20, 2024
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
MARCH 6, 2024
REGULAR MEETING
004VENTURA PORT DISTRICT
BOARD OF PORT COMMISSIONERS
REGULAR MEETING MINUTES OF MARCH 6, 2024
CLOSED SESSION
CALL TO ORDER:
The Ventura Board of Port Commissioners Regular Closed Session
Meeting was called to order by Chair Blumenberg at 6:11PM at the Ventura Port District
Administration Office, 1603 Anchors Way Drive, Ventura, CA 93001 and via Zoom meeting.
ROLL CALL:
Commissioners Present:
Michael Blumenberg, Chair
Anthony Rainey, Secretary
Brian Brennan
Chris Stephens
Commissioners Absent:
Jackie Gardina, Vice-Chair
Port District Staff:
Brian Pendleton, General Manager
Todd Mitchell, Sr. Business Operations Manager
Jessica Rauch, Clerk of the Board
Legal Counsel:
Tom Bunn, Lagerlof LLP
Pablo De Leon, Lagerlof LLP
Robert Smith, K&L Gates
Number of interested persons:
0 via zoom; 0 in-person
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS: None.
CONVENED TO CLOSED SESSION AT 6:13PM.
ADJOURNMENT: Closed Session was adjourned at 7:03PM.
Ventura Port District Board of Port Commissioners
March 6, 2024 Regular Meeting Minutes – PENDING APPROVAL
Page 2
OPEN SESSION
ADMINISTRATIVE AGENDA:
CALL TO ORDER:
The Ventura Board of Port Commissioners Regular Open Session Meeting was called to order
by Chair Blumenberg at 7:05PM at the Ventura Port District Administration Office, 1603 Anchors
Way Drive, Ventura, CA 93001 and via Zoom meeting.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: By Gloria Adkins.
ROLL CALL:
Commissioners Present:
Michael Blumenberg, Chair
Jackie Gardina, Vice-Chair via Zoom
Anthony Rainey, Secretary
Brian Brennan
Chris Stephens
Commissioners Absent:
None
Port District Staff:
Brian D. Pendleton, General Manager
Todd Mitchell, Sr. Business Operations Manager
Jessica Rauch, Clerk of the Board
Gloria Adkins, Accounting Manager
Joe Gonzalez, Capital Projects Manager via Zoom
Sergio Gonzalez, Facilities Manager via Zoom
Wayne Hatch, Maintenance Supervisor via Zoom
John Higgins, Harbormaster
Pat Hummer, Senior Harbor Patrol Officer via Zoom
Jessica Perkins, Accountant via Zoom
Jessica Snipas, Business Operations Analyst via Zoom
Dave Werneburg, Marina Manager via Zoom
Legal Counsel:
Tom Bunn, Lagerlof Lawyers LLP
Pablo De Leon, Lagerlof Lawyers LLP
City of Ventura Liaisons
Councilmember McReynolds, City Council Liaison – Absent
Number of interested persons:
2 via zoom; 0 in person
Ventura Port District Board of Port Commissioners
March 6, 2024 Regular Meeting Minutes – PENDING APPROVAL
Page 3
ADOPTION OF AGENDA
ACTION: Commissioner Stephens moved to adopt the March 6, 2024 agenda.
Commissioner Brennan seconded. The vote was as follows:
AYES: Commissioners Blumenberg, Gardina, Rainey, Brennan, Stephens
NOES: None
ABSTAINED: None
ABSENT: None
Motion carried 5-0.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
The Minutes of the February 21, 2024 Port Commission Regular Meeting were considered as
follows:
ACTION: Commissioner Brennan moved to approve the Minutes of the February 21,
2024 Port Commission Regular Meeting.
Commissioner Rainey seconded. The vote was as follows:
AYES: Commissioners Blumenberg, Gardina, Rainey, Brennan, Stephens
NOES: None
ABSTAINED: None
ABSENT: None
Motion carried 5-0.
PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS: None. Closed at 7:08PM.
CLOSED SESSION REPORT: Mr. Bunn stated that the Board met in closed session and
discussed Item 1a on the closed session agenda. The Board will reconvene in closed session
after open session to continue discussions on Item 1a.
BOARD COMMUNICATIONS: Commissioner Stephens attended the tenant celebration.
Commissioner Brennan complimented staff, Chair and Vice-Chair on the City Council
presentation. He also mentioned the dredging letter sent to the City. Chair Blumenberg attended
the tenant celebration, City Council presentation and also liked the dredging letter to the City.
Closed at 7:12PM.
STAFF AND GENERAL MANAGER REPORTS: Mr. Pendleton reported on the City Council
presentation, tenant celebration and upcoming events at Harbor Village. Closed at 7:15PM.
Ventura Port District Board of Port Commissioners
March 6, 2024 Regular Meeting Minutes – PENDING APPROVAL
Page 4
CONSENT AGENDA:
A) Approval of Amendment No. 1 to Spectrum Pacific West, LLC Fiber Optic Installation
and Maintenance Agreement
Recommended Action: Roll Call Vote.
That the Board of Port Commissioners authorize the General Manager to sign Amendment No. 1
to the Spectrum Fiber Optic Installation and Maintenance Agreement with Spectrum Pacific West,
LLC (Spectrum), its successors and grants a non-exclusive easement and right of way to
construct, use, maintain, operate, alter, add to, repair, replace, reconstruct, inspect and remove
at any time and from time to time an underground fiber optics system (Utilities) along Anchors
Point Way to Schooner Drive connect to the Harbortown Point Resort for Spectrum services.
Public Comment: None. Closed at 7:16PM.
ACTION: Commissioner Brennan moved to authorize the General Manager to sign
Amendment No. 1 to the Spectrum Fiber Optic Installation and Maintenance
Agreement with Spectrum Pacific West, LLC (Spectrum), its successors and
grants a non-exclusive easement and right of way to construct, use,
maintain, operate, alter, add to, repair, replace, reconstruct, inspect and
remove at any time and from time to time an underground fiber optics system
(Utilities) along Anchors Point Way to Schooner Drive connect to the
Harbortown Point Resort for Spectrum services.
Commissioner Stephens seconded. The vote was as follows:
AYES: Commissioners Blumenberg, Gardina, Rainey, Brennan, Stephens
NOES: None
ABSTAINED: None
ABSENT: None
Motion carried 5-0.
B) Approval of a New Office Lease Agreement with Loana Healing LLC at 1559 Spinnaker
Drive #208
Recommended Action: Roll Call Vote.
That the Board of Port Commissioners approve a new Office Lease Agreement between the
Ventura Port District dba Ventura Harbor Village and Loana Healing LLC for the premises located
at 1559 Spinnaker Drive #208 consisting of approximately 468 square feet for a three-year term
with one two-year option.
Public Comment: None. Closed at 7:16PM.
ACTION: Commissioner Brennan moved to approve a new Office Lease Agreement
between the Ventura Port District dba Ventura Harbor Village and Loana
Healing LLC for the premises located at 1559 Spinnaker Drive #208
consisting of approximately 468 square feet for a three-year term with one
two-year option.
Commissioner Stephens seconded. The vote was as follows:
Ventura Port District Board of Port Commissioners
March 6, 2024 Regular Meeting Minutes – PENDING APPROVAL
Page 5
AYES: Commissioners Blumenberg, Gardina, Rainey, Brennan, Stephens
NOES: None
ABSTAINED: None
ABSENT: None
Motion carried 5-0.
STANDARD AGENDA:
1) Approval of Amendment No. 1 to a Professional Services Agreement with Rincon
Consultants, Inc. for Environmental Support Services
Recommended Action: Roll Call Vote.
That the Board of Port Commissioners approve Amendment No. 1 to a Professional Services
Agreement with Rincon Consultants, Inc. to increase the compensation to $230,000 from
$165,000 for maintenance dredging environmental consulting, monitoring, and permitting
services.
Report by Todd Mitchell, Sr. Business Operations Manager.
Public Comment: None. Closed at 7:18PM.
Commissioner Rainey noted for the public that the increase was approved in the mid-year budget
back in February and this item is amending the contract.
ACTION: Commissioner Stephens moved to approve Amendment No. 1 to a
Professional Services Agreement with Rincon Consultants, Inc. to increase
the compensation to $230,000 from $165,000 for maintenance dredging
environmental consulting, monitoring, and permitting services.
Vice-Chair Gardina seconded. The vote was as follows:
AYES: Commissioners Blumenberg, Gardina, Rainey, Brennan, Stephens
NOES: None
ABSTAINED: None
ABSENT: None
Motion carried 5-0.
2) Approval of Amendment No. 1 to a Service Agreement with Medallion Protective
Services for Ventura Harbor Village and Marina
Recommended Action: Voice Vote.
That the Board of Port Commissioners approve Amendment No. 1 to a Service Agreement with
Medallion Protective Services to increase the compensation to $140,000 from $50,000 for security
services in Ventura Harbor Village and around the Marina.
Report by Todd Mitchell, Sr. Business Operations Manager.
Public Comment: None. Closed at 7:29PM.
Ventura Port District Board of Port Commissioners
March 6, 2024 Regular Meeting Minutes – PENDING APPROVAL
Page 6
ACTION: Commissioner Brennan moved to approve Amendment No. 1 to a Service
Agreement with Medallion Protective Services to increase the compensation
to $140,000 from $50,000 for security services in Ventura Harbor Village and
around the Marina.
Vice-Chair Gardina seconded. The vote was as follows:
AYES: Commissioners Blumenberg, Gardina, Rainey, Brennan, Stephens
NOES: None
ABSTAINED: None
ABSENT: None
Motion carried 5-0.
3) Status Report on Recent and Forecasted Pacific Storm Events
Recommended Action: Informational.
That the Board of Port Commissioners receive a report on recent Pacific winter storm events
impacting Ventura.
Report by John Higgins, Harbormaster.
Public Comment: None. Closed at 7:36PM.
ACTION: The Board of Port Commissioners receive a report on recent Pacific winter
storm events impacting Ventura.
No action was taken.
RECONVENED TO CLOSED SESSION AT 7:37PM
CLOSED SESSION WAS ADJOURNED AT 7:57PM.
OPEN SESSION WAS RECONVENED AT 7:59PM.
CLOSED SESSION REPORT: Mr. Bunn stated that the Board reconvened in closed session and
continued discussing Item 1a on the closed session agenda. Staff was given instructions on how
to proceed as appropriate and no action was taken that is reportable under The Brown Act.
ADJOURNMENT: The meeting was adjourned at 8:00PM.
The next regular meeting is Wednesday, March 20, 2024.
_________________________________
Anthony Rainey, Secretary
BOARD OF PORT COMMISSIONERS
MARCH 20, 2024
DEPARTMENTAL STAFF REPORTS
FEBRUARY 2024
&
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
FIVE-YEAR OBJECTIVES INDEX
BOARD OF PORT COMMISSIONERS
MARCH 20, 2024
DEPARTMENTAL STAFF REPORTS
FEBRUARY 2024
&
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
FIVE-YEAR OBJECTIVES INDEX
1)
2)
3)
4)
5)
6)
7)
8)
1)
Support and advocate for congressional funding to the Army Corps of Engineers in support of the
Harbor’s annual dredging program
2)
On-going leadership and participation with California Marine Affairs and Navigation Conference
(CMANC) and other relevant organizations in support of federal and state assistance
3) Ventura Port District Dredging
1)
Collaborate with business partners and stakeholders through increased engagement,
communication, and participation.
2)
Collaborate with City, regional, state, and federal agency officials in pursuit of mutually beneficial
projects, programs
3) Public and Civic Engagement Planning
4) Updates to District policies to reflect improved transparency and DEI
1) Engage with commercial fishing and sustainable aquaculture interests in Ventura Harbor
2) Continue improvements of District’s Working Waterfront infrastructure
3) Continue to pursue opportunities for diversifying commercial fishing and sustainable aquaculture
1) Engagement and support of Master Tenants for successful business operations at the Harbor
2) Evaluate opportunities for Parcel Development
3) Implement sustainability technologies at the Harbor
4) VenturaWaterPure
1) Work with NPS and harbor visitors regarding enhancement of visitor experience.
2)
Coordinate with NPS Superintendent to evaluate long-term goals and improvement needs for the
Channel Islands National Park Visitor Center
3)
Coordinate with National & California State Parks, and City to develop destination-based
ecotourism offerings
1) Work with City to improve access between the City and Harbor
2)
Evaluate alternative and active methods for people to travel to and within the Harbor and pursue
needed improvements and strategies in partnership with the City
3) Pursue and implement parking management solutions to increase vehicle circulation
1) Utilize grant funding opportunities for sustainable Harbor infrastructure
2) Seek additional grant funding for improving/replacing District capital assets.
3) Leasing/Property Management
4) Update of Financial Management System
5) Financial Reporting
1) Ongoing investment in Harbor Village Infrastructure
2) Develop and implement an Annual Visitation Plan for Ventura Harbor Village.
V) Maintain and improve Harbor Village facilities, infrastructure, and amenities.
Maintain a safe, navigable, and resilient harbor.
Advance the harbor’s vibrant, working waterfront in support of commercial and recreational fishing and boating.
Grow financial sustainability through a reliable, recurring revenue stream supplemented with grants and public-private partnership investment while maintaining responsible budgeting practices.
Establish and implement harbor-wide environmental sustainability policies and practices through collaboration with our business partners.
Maintain and grow Channel Islands National Park Service (NPS) presence and
customer visitation to the Harbor.
N)
Implement parking management, traffic circulation, and multi-modal
transportation strategies.
P)
Seek opportunities to grow revenues and secure grants; continue to improve the
quality, efficiency, and transparency of financial reporting, monitoring, and
property management.
R)
Encourage public and civic engagement; maintain high levels of organizational
transparency; and promote Harbor-wide diversity, equity and inclusion through
District policies, procedures and programs.
E)
Support current and future commercial fishing and sustainable aquaculture
industries. Maintain and improve working waterfront facilities and infrastructure.
F)
M)
Collaborate with Master Tenants and National Park Service to plan, improve,
and develop the Harbor in a financially and environmentally sustainable way.
5-YEAR OBJECTIVES STRATEGY
Ensure dredging occurs annually at the federal Harbor entrance and as needed
in the inner Harbor.
D)
Build respectful, productive relationships with employees, tenants, residents, visitors, stakeholders, public officials, and elected representatives while promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Provide exceptional public service and organizational transparency.
Provide high-quality Harbor and coastal visitor-serving amenities, services, facilities and infrastructure.
Support the Channel Islands National Park in its efforts to provide a first-class visitor center, educational resources, and ferry boat services to the islands.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
VENTURA PORT DISTRICT
DEPARTMENTAL STAFF REPORT Meeting Date: March 20, 2024
TO: Board of Port Commissioners
FROM: Todd Mitchell, Sr. Business Operations Manager
Joe A. Gonzalez, Capital Projects Manager
SUBJECT: February 2024 Capital Projects Report
1559 BUILDING TENANT IMPROVEMNT
Status: Substantially Complete
Budget: On Budget
F.C.T Construction LLC is nearing completion of the tenant improvements for these six suites. All
but one of the suites are now leased.
Staff is very pleased with the communication and coordination that F.C.T Construction has
implemented during this project to help minimize noise and timing of the noise that normally comes
with construction. As of today, there have been no issues. All City and Fire Department inspections
regarding this project have passed. The District has received the final sign-off from the City.
1567 SPINNAKER DR. SUITE 101, FACADE RENOVATION
Status: On Going
Budget: On Budget
The last remaining components of the project await the city approving the tenant’s improvements
permit. The electrical upgrade work will be done in conjunction with the installation of the suite’s
grease trap to minimize disruption to visitors and nearby tenants, which is schedule to start Mid-
March. Staff has started coordinating between the contractor and surrounding tenants on the
schedule, access, and noise. Staff is also coordinating with the contractor for all common areas
public access and ADA path of travel to be accessible during construction.
1567 SPINNAKER DR. SUITE 101, LOOSE CANNON UPDATE
Status: On Going
Budget: N/A (Tenant Cost)
Loose Cannon has received a Courtesy Inspection Permit from the City, which allows for:
trenching, rough plumbing, grease trap and underground electrical. All in-ground plumbing work
inside the suite has been inspected and approved by the city.
The exterior electrical switch gear work will be done in conjunction with the installation of the suite’s
grease trap to minimize disruption to visitors and nearby tenants, which is schedule to start Mid-
March. Staff has started coordinating between the contractor and surrounding tenants on the
schedule, access, and noise. Staff is also coordinating with the contractor to make sure all public
walkways and ADA path of travel will be accessible during construction. All interior underground
electrical and underground rough plumbing has been inspected and approved by the City’s
inspector. Contractor has been given the green light to pour and cover all exposed trenches. Staff
continues to work with the City and the tenant’s architects in order to obtain building permits
issued (anticipated in March).
Exposed trenches Covered trenches.
LAUNCH RAMP WASHDOWN STATION AND THE FLOATING DOCK REPLACMENT
PROJECTS
Status: On going
Budget: Grant Funded
The District is working to complete two capital improvement projects associated with the Ventura
Harbor Public Launch Ramp. These two projects are both being funded by a grant from the
California State Parks Division of Boating and Waterways. The first project consists of the removal
and replacement of the existing boat wash station including the addition of ADA accessibility. The
second project is the removal of the existing launch ramp boarding floats and the fabrication and
installation of replacement boarding float systems. These are two different projects with different
sets of contractor expertise and are therefore being advertised separately.
The Board awarded the bid for the Launch Ramp Floating Dock Replacement Project to Bluewater
Marine, Inc. in the amount of $328,215.00. Staff are waiting for all paperwork from the contractor
prior to issuing the notice to proceed.
District staff rebid the Ventura Harbor Public Boat Wash Station Replacement Project. A mandatory
pre-bid job walk was conducted on site on February 29, 2024. A public bid opening is scheduled for
March 26, 2024. Staff anticipates presenting the lowest qualified bid for the Board’s consideration
on April 3rd.
VENTURA HARBOR VILLAGE RESTROOM ENHANCEMENTS AT 1559 AND 1583 SPINNAKER
DRIVE
Status: Has not started
Budget: N/A
On February 7th, the Board accepted the low bid from F.C.T. Construction, Inc. in the amount of
$450,000 and approved a Budget Adjustment to the 5-Year Capital Improvement Plan for the
Ventura Harbor Village Restroom Remodel Project at 1559 and 1583 Spinnaker Drive. Staff is
working closely with F.C.T Construction on obtaining all the necessary documentation from the
company, so the District could give Contractor the Notice To Procced. Staff is also currently working
closely with all nearby tenants to make sure this project goes as smooth as possible. Staff is
anticipating starting by mid-March, the goal is to complete both sides on a timely manner.
ADDITIONAL PROJECTS:
 1575 & 1583 Pass-through repaving Status: Working with architects.
 Ventura Harbor Village Awnings Status: On going.
 Additional Mural painting throughout VHV Status: On going.
VENTURA PORT DISTRICT
DEPARTMENTAL STAFF REPORT Meeting Date: March 20, 2024
TO: Board of Port Commissioners
FROM: Brian D. Pendleton, General Manager
Todd Mitchell, Sr. Business Operations Manager
SUBJECT: February 2024 Dredging Report
OUTER HARBOR DREDGING (FEDERAL NAVIGATION CHANNEL)
Political Advocacy for Federal Dredge Funding
USACE’s Los Angeles District has issued the notice to proceed to their dredging contractor to
dredge 600,000 yards of material from Ventura Harbor’s federal entrance channel.
2024 Dredging Funding
The President’s Budget (PBUD) was released on March 9th and the Ventura Harbor entrance
channel dredging was included in the amount of $8.471 million to cover:
1. 2024 dredging of 600,000 cubic yards, which is higher than it has been in several years.
2. An update to the Environmental Impact Statement (required every six years).
3. Soliciting for dredging prior to 2025.
Since then, funding for dredging of Ventura Harbor has also been included in the Senate’s
appropriations bill and in the House’s appropriations bill.
2025 Dredging Funding
The Corps has provided their recommendations on funding to OMB (this is usually not disclosed,
nor is the funding amount, however the preliminary figure believed to be needed is $8M).
No further updates are anticipated until the President’s Budget is released (expected to be
sometime in March). The SBOM met with Congressman Carbajal on February 15th as part of
CMANC’s DC conference to restate the importance of full funding and to also discuss the District’s
commercial fishing and future goals for aquaculture. The Congressman has requested a visit to
see the commercial fishing in action.
The SBOM, as the current Board Chair also led CMANC’s meeting with OMB virtually on March
6th to discuss both CMANC’s and the District’s need for full funding each year.
INNER HARBOR DREDGING
Atmospheric Rain Events Will Mean Inner Harbor Dredging in 2024
Due to the inflow of sediment during the atmospheric river events in January 2023 it has been
determined that the inner harbor will be dredged in March 2024. The principal area of infill is in
the basin between Marina Park and the harbor entrance (referred to as the Pierpont Basin and
Stub Channel). This area generally acts as a “sand trap” for material, which it did in this event.
There is no hazard to navigation here, but the basin needs to be dredged.
The SBOM has had several discussions with FEMA regarding funding of the inner harbor
dredging due to the impacts of the atmospheric river storm events. Guidance has been provided
on how the District is to move forward, which required a competitive open bidding process.
Staff worked with support from Rincon Consultants, Noble Consultants, and Lagerlof advertised
a request for bids package that will satisfy FEMA’s requirements and make the project eligible for
funding assistance from FEMA and CalOES. It is estimated that about 65-75% of the total project
cost could be reimbursed. However, nothing will be guaranteed until the project is completed, and
reimbursement is likely to take a year to receive.
The bid opening took place on January 30, 2024. Four bids were received, with the lowest bid
being from Manson for $1.33 million. The bid has been accepted. Staff are presently working with
FEMA on the next steps related to funding assistance.
Permit Amendments: Complete
District staff and Rincon Consultants have completed the renewals and amendments to the
District’s permits and all permits are in place to allow inner harbor dredging next month.
ATTACHMENT:
Attachment 1 – February 2024 Federal Advocacy Reports by Carpi & Clay
1
March 1, 2024
Federal Update
www.carpiclay.com
FY24 Appropriations Update
This week, House and Senate leadership announced that they reached a deal on six of
the twelve fiscal year (FY) 2024 appropriations bills: Agriculture-FDA, Commerce-Justice-
Science, Energy and Water Development, Interior and the Environment, Military
Construction-Veterans Affairs, and Transportation-Housing and Urban Development
(HUD). This funding agreement prompted Congress to subsequently act on another
short-term laddered continuing resolution keeping the agencies funded by the six bills
listed above operational until March 8th and the remaining federal agencies operating
under a CR until March 22nd.
Under the House 72-hour rule, legislative text for the first of two FY24 minibus
appropriations packages could be released as early as this weekend to allow for a final
vote in the House and Senate before the new March 8th deadline. All project specific
funding, including items identified in the President’s FY24 budget proposal for the US
Army Corps of Engineers, are pending the release of this final package.
President Biden to Send Budget Proposal on March 11th
Following the State of the Union on March 7th, President Biden is expected to send his
FY25 budget proposal to Congress on March 11th. The release of the President’s budget
is expected to kick-start the FY25 appropriations process in Congress. Due to a number
of factors, but primarily delayed congressional action on the FY24 appropriations bills, the
President’s budget proposal is already a month behind schedule. Once the budget
proposal is released, federal agencies will hold budget briefings, some of which may be
conducted in-person for the first time since 2019.
McConnell Will Not Seek Reelection to Lead Senate Republicans
On February 28th, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) announced he will not
seek another term as leader of the Senate Republican Conference. McConnell has led
Senate Republicans since 2007 and is the longest serving Senate party leader in U.S.
history. He said he intends to serve the remainder of his Senate term that expires in
January 2027.
Additional Members Announce Retirement
This month, additional Representatives announced their intent to retire at the end of the
118th Congress, many of these retirements include Committee Chairs. They are:
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▪ Representative Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA), Chair of the Committee on
Energy & Commerce
▪ Representative Mike Gallagher (R-WI)
▪ Delegate Gregorio Sablan (D-MP)
In a surprise move, Representative Mark Green (R-TN), Chair of the Committee on
Homeland Security, reversed his early announcement to retire. Rep. Green will run to
maintain his current seat.
Special Election Results
In the special election in New York’s 3rd Congressional District, former Representative
Tom Suozzi won election to the seat occupied by expelled former Representative George
Santos and assumed office on February 28th. House Republicans now have a five-seat
majority with 219 members to 213 Democrats, with three vacancies.
House Launches Bipartisan AI Task Force
Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) and Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) announced
the formation of the Task Force on Artificial Intelligence (AI), led by Representatives Jay
Obernolte (R-CA) and Ted Lieu (D-CA). The Task Force will develop a report that includes
guidelines, recommendations, and bipartisan policy proposals on how America can
maintain leadership in AI development and innovation while establishing appropriate
guardrails to ensure safety against current and emerging threats.
Agencies Release 2023 Equity Action Plan Updates
All federal agencies released updates to their Equity Action Plans, as directed by
Executive Order (EO) 14901, Further Advancing Racial Equity and Support for
Underserved Communities Through the Federal Government. The updates detail
progress by each agency in 2023 toward meeting Biden administration environmental
justice (EJ) and equity goals. Equity Action Plan 2023 Updates listed by agency can be
found HERE.
Senator Murkowski Introduces Working Waterfronts Act
Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) introduced the Working Waterfront Act of 2024 (S. 3785)
aimed at improving the port and harbor workforce, energy and shoreside infrastructure,
food security, coastal economies, and federal conservation research. The bill includes:
▪ Tax Credits for Marine Energy Projects;
▪ Fishing Vessel Alternative Fuels Pilot Program;
▪ Rural Coastal Community Processing and Cold Storage Grant Program;
▪ Maritime Workforce Grant Program;
▪ Working Waterfronts Development Act;
▪ Fishing Industry Safety, Health, and Wellness (FISH Wellness) Act;
▪ Ocean Regional Opportunity and Innovation Act;
▪ Coastal Communities Ocean Acidification Act;
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▪ Vegetated Coastal Ecosystem Inventory; and
▪ Marine Invasive Species Research and Monitoring.
The bill was referred to the Committee on Finance for consideration.
PORTS Caucus Co-Chairs Communicate Clean Port Program Priorities to
EPA
PORTS Caucus Co-Chairs Robert Garcia (D-CA) and Randy Weber (R-TX) sent a letter
to EPA Administrator Regan requesting consideration of the caucus’ priorities when
developing the agency’s $3 billion Clean Ports Program. The letter requests that EPA
ensures that grants to seaports are prioritized, reconsiders the potential cap on electric
grid infrastructure, allows project scaling during grant award consideration, and avoids
constrained liquidation deadlines.
Federal Funding Opportunities & Announcements
DOE Announces Clean Transportation Deployment and Demonstration NOFO. The
Department of Energy (DOE) released a NOFO for the availability of $15 million for
projects that will help advance deployment of technologies to help achieve net-zero
greenhouse gas emissions in the transportation sector. Topic areas include:
▪ Clean Cities Outreach, Engagement, and Technical Assistance ($5 million)
▪ Training on Zero Emission Vehicle and Infrastructure Technologies for Critical
Emergency Response Workers ($5 million)
▪ Clean Transportation Demonstration and Deployment ($5 million)
Applicants must submit a concept paper by March 12th, and full applications are due by
April 30th.
DOT Publishes SS4A NOFO. The Department of Transportation (DOT) published a
notice of funding opportunity (NOFO) for the availability of $1.256 billion through the
Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) program. The funding will support planning and
demonstration projects, as well as projects and strategies to prevent death and serious
injuries on roads and streets involving all roadway users, including pedestrians; bicyclists;
public transportation, personal conveyance, micromobility users; motorists; and
commercial vehicle operators. Planning and Demonstration Grant applicants have three
deadlines: April 4th, May 16th, and August 29th, while Implementation Grant applications
are due by May 16th.
EPA to Host Three Grants Webinars in Late March. The Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA) will host three webinars on its grant programs in late March:
▪ Competition Process Webinar – March 26th at 1:00 pm ET;
▪ Procurement, Subawards, and Participant Support Costs Webinar – March
27th at 11:30 am ET; and
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▪ New EPA Davis-Bacon Grant Term and Condition Webinar – March 28th at
12:30 pm ET.
FWS Announces $10.8 Million in National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Awards.
The Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) announced $10.8 million in awards for 12 projects
to support the recovery of threatened and endangered species, enhance flood protection
and water quality, and restore coastal wetlands.
Federal Agency Personnel & Regulatory Announcements
President Biden Signs Port Cybersecurity Executive Order. On February 21st,
President Biden signed EO 14116 titled Amending Regulations Relating to the
Safeguarding of Vessels, Harbors, Ports, and Waterfront Facilities of the United States.
The EO focuses on maritime cybersecurity threats and directs the U.S. Coast Guard to
issue a Maritime Security Directive on cyber risk management actions for ship-to-shore
cranes manufactured in China. The EO also gives the Coast Guard the authority to
respond to malicious cyber activity by requiring vessels and waterfront facilities to mitigate
cyber threats, institute mandatory reporting of maritime cyber incidents, and control the
movement of vessels that pose a known or suspected cyber threat to maritime
infrastructure. A fact sheet on the EO is available HERE.
President Biden Announces DOT General Counsel Nomination. President Biden
announced the nomination of Sarah Baker, to be General Counsel at DOT. Baker
currently works as principal deputy general counsel at the department and previously
worked in the Obama administration and as a senior policy adviser to Jill Biden.
President Biden Appoints John Podesta as International Climate Advisor. President
Biden announced that John Podesta will serve as Senior Advisor to the President for
International Climate Policy, succeeding former Secretary of State John Kerry. Kerry will
depart his role by April and is expected to join President Biden’s reelection campaign.
Coast Guard Issues Maritime Cybersecurity NPRM. In conjunction with President
Biden’s EO on maritime cybersecurity, the Coast Guard released a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) titled “Cybersecurity in the Marine Transportation System.” The
NPRM would add regulations focused on establishing minimum cybersecurity
requirements for U.S.-flagged vessels, Outer Continental Shelf facilities, and U.S.
facilities subject to Maritime Transportation Act of 2002 regulations. Comments are due
by April 22nd.
DOT Publishes Biweekly Reporting of IIJA Funding. DOT is now publishing the
spending status of funds provided by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA).
The data will be updated on a biweekly basis.
EDA Announces Deployment of Economic Recovery Corps. The Economic
Development Administration (EDA) announced the inaugural deployment of the
Economic Recovery Corps. EDA will deploy 65 professionals to communities nationwide
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for 2.5 years to advance regional projects and enhance economic development capacity
for under-resourced communities.
EPA Announces Acting Deputy Administrator. EPA announced that Bruno Pigott will
serve as Acting Deputy Administrator following the departure of Deputy Administrator
Radhika Fox. Pigott currently serves as Principal Deputy Assistant Administrator for
Water and has been with the agency since 2021.
FEMA Releases Update to Mitigation Action Portfolio. The Federal Emergency
Management Agency (FEMA) released an update to its Mitigation Action Portfolio (MAP).
MAP features Hazard Mitigation Assistance Program project ideas that address all types
of natural hazards, including coastal and inland flooding, wildfire, droughts, and
landslides.
FHWA Publishes Report on Virtual Public Involvement Practices in NEPA. FHWA
published a report titled “Virtual Public Involvement Practices in NEPA.” The report
summarizes eight case studies that explored potential approaches to virtual public
involvement in the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process.
OMB Releases Federal Program Inventory. The White House Office of Management
and Budget (OMB) released the Federal Programs Inventory webpage to provide
information about all federal programs that provide grants, loans, or direct payments. The
inventory includes objectives, estimated spending, and actual spending for each program.
USACE and Reclamation Release Joint Infrastructure Report. The U.S. Army Corps
of Engineers (USACE) and Reclamation released a joint report entitled “State of the
Infrastructure: A Joint Report by the Bureau of Reclamation and the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers.” The report provides a high-level overview of the infrastructure asset portfolio
and related asset management practices, collaboration efforts, and future strategies.
## ## ##
ATTACHMENT 1
VENTURA PORT DISTRICT
DEPARTMENTAL STAFF REPORT Meeting Date: March 20, 2024
TO: Board of Port Commissioners
FROM: Todd Mitchell, Sr. Business Operations Manager
Sergio Gonzalez, Facilities Manager
SUBJECT: February 2024 Facilities Report
MAINTENANCE ACTIVITES
VHV 1559 SUITE #202B TENANT IMPROVEMENT
Status: Ongoing
Budget: Budgeted (Capital Improvements)
In coordination with the Capital Projects Manager, the Maintenance Department has initiated the
tenant improvement at VHV 1559 Suite #202B. The Department will be tasked with making
electrical improvements and upgrades, removing outdated and installing upgraded
communication outlets, and reconfiguring/updating the lighting.
VHV FISH PIER ELECTRICAL ROOM ELECTRICAL UPGRADE IMPROVEMENT
Status: Ongoing
Budget: Budgeted (Grounds Maintenance)
In anticipation of a future tenant ice machine install on the fish pier and the probability of additional
in-house Marina Department electrical needs, the Maintenance Department has initiated and
completed the project to upgrade the electrical utilities inside the fish pier electrical room to
accommodate such tasks when needed. Current 25-kva step down transformer was upgraded to
a 75-kva, the house electrical distribution panel was upgraded from a 60-amp to a 150-amp panel.
Project was coordinated and completed by Maintenance Tech 2 Luis Quezada.
r
1559 Suite #202B ready for
tenant improvement.
Initiation of Suite #202B
tenant improvement.
1559 Suite #202B ready
for tenant improvement.
Initiation of Suite 202B
tenant improvement
Conduit installed to new
location of upgraded
transformer and panel.
Upgrade transformer and
boxed panel to be install
inside fish pier room.
Maintenance Tech 2 Luis
Quezada connecting new
panel to new transformer.
Luis Quezada finalizing
the scope of work.
VHV PROMENADE BOUGAINVILLEA HEDGE REDUCTION
Status: Completed
Budget: Budgeted (Grounds Maintenance)
The Maintenance Department contracted a service provider to reduce the bougainvillea hedge to
36” inches on the VHV promenade from the 1431 sector to the end of the hedge at 1591, to
provide better views to pedestrians. The contractor also removed 5 invasive Pittosporum trees
that were growing along the promenade revetment. After removing such trees, the Maintenance
Department backfilled the gaps in the hedge with newly planted bougainvillea’s to fill in the hedge.
VHV 1575 PROMENADE SIDE PATIO CONVERSION/ENHANCEMENT
Status: Ongoing
Budget: Budgeted (Grounds Maintenance)
The Maintenance Department (in conjunction with the Marketing Department) is in the process of
converting the vacant promenade-side patio into a common area take out eating/sitting zone for
public use. Sitting tables with umbrellas and outdoor planters with vegetation have been added
to enhance the area before adding future ambient lighting. Further amenities will be added to
continue to further enhance the patio.
r
VHV promenade
bougainvillea hedge to
be reduced to 36”.
Planting new
bougainvillea’s to fill in
the hedge.
Pittosporum tree to be
removed from hedge.
Small children enjoying
the new view from the
reduced hedge.
North facing view of
progressing 1575 patio
South facing view of
progressing 1575 patio.
Ongoing improvement of
VHV 1575 patio.
New outdoor grade sitting
tables and umbrellas.
VPD SOUTH/WEST ENTRY FEATURE TREE TRIMMING AND LANDSCAPING
Status: Completed
Budget: Budgeted (Ground Maintenance)
A tree service provider was contracted to trim, thin and reduce 11 Red Ironbark Eucalyptus trees
located on the south/west side of the VPD entry feature on Spinnaker Drive. The contractor also
raised and thinned 18 Pittosporum trees along the fence line of the property and performed
landscaping cleanup of the area in question.
FACILITIES:
Staff continues to perform everyday maintenance and on the spot repairs throughout Ventura
Harbor Village, other District properties, equipment, vehicles, and vessels. Also assists other
Departments on special projects.
West facing view of
untrimmed Pittosporum
and Eucalyptus trees.
East facing view of
untrimmed Pittosporum
and Eucalyptus trees.
West facing view of
trimmed Pittosporum
and Eucalyptus trees.
East facing view of
trimmed Pittosporum and
Eucalyptus trees.
VENTURA PORT DISTRICT
DEPARTMENTAL STAFF REPORT Meeting Date: March 20, 2024
TO: Board of Port Commissioners
FROM: Brian D. Pendleton, General Manager
John Higgins, Harbormaster
SUBJECT: February 2024 Harbor Patrol Report
PUBLIC SAFETY
Overview:
We appear to have peaked in the El Nino season and now the National Oceanic
Administration Agency is reporting we are moving towards a neutral event. This
neutral event will merge into a La Nina early next fall. While most of the rain and
surf is expected to be in the past, we still have March, which traditionally has
strong winds associated with the normal patterns. Port District staff will watch the
sand drifts and work within our abilities to keep from losing sand onto the streets.
On land we experienced a high number of traffic accidents on Spinnaker Drive during the month
of February. Not all were rain related, but the rough roads may have contributed to at least one
or more accidents. Harbor Patrol staff responds to all 911 calls, initiates emergency first aid, and
then transitions to aiding with traffic control when Paramedics arrive.
February Storms:
The best way to summarize February was wet. Starting on the
first day of the month and continuing through the end, we
experienced several significant rain events. On several
occasions we had significant road flooding on Navigator and
surrounding surface streets. Port District staff worked diligently to
increase messaging to tenants, visitors, and staff to allow them
to be better prepared for these events. The frequency of the
events resulted in improvements in our preparations, responses,
and mitigations.
The Harbor Patrol focused on public safety and on several days responded to flooding related
calls. On the water they pumped out a number of boats during the month to keep them afloat.
Another frequent duty was removing large debris from the waters in and around the harbor. Our
harbor experienced debris from the Barranca, fields, and both nearby rivers.
On land, the Harbor Patrol responded to vehicles stuck in flooded waters, traffic accidents, and
even one response of a person stuck in a vehicle with water entering the vehicle. Harbor Patrol
staff arrived on scene at the intersection of Harbor and Spinnaker Drive where they found a lowprofile
car with water up to the doors. The occupant who initially panicked when water began
entering the car was helped out of the vehicle by a good Samaritan prior to their arrival.
On February 21st Harbor Patrol Officers Pat Hummer, Marine Safety Officer Jack Picket, and the
Harbormaster removed six truckloads of large objects from the South Beach. The items included
six shopping carts, two steel barrels, and other miscellaneous items. Harbor Patrol staff continued
to pick up large non-wood items.
BEACHES
Harbor Cove:
Harbor Cove is being prepped for dredging that is scheduled to begin on or around March 15th.
Prepping of the site before the dredging includes removal of the beach access trail mat and the
laying of the dredge pipe. Also, in several locations there needs to be a sand bridge to supply
access to the public and vehicles.
The new vendor of the volleyball courts has improved the location and accessibility of the courts.
High School and Jr. College Beach Volleyball is in full swing most days of the week. On weekends
the courts are used for added training, public play, and special events.
South Beach:
While there has been significant erosion and debris from past storms more recently the erosion
has been relatively stable. Port District staff have been involved with the dredging pre-planning
and will try to maximize the dredging sand replenishments long-term value to the Port District and
Community.
The biggest challenge will be the placement of sand between the South Jetty and Surfers Knoll
groin. Past dredge activity and storms have used most all the available sand in this area. Due to
the deficit placement of loose sand in this area, it will more than likely result in the sand not
completely settling nearshore. Port District staff are working with Manson beach crew to apply
techniques to maximize the effectiveness of the sand placement.
Fortunately, the amount of sand and monies available should supply a much-needed relief to our
immediate problem. Moving forward there may be benefits of La Nina conditions as this
sometimes results in Eastern Pacific Hurricanes which result in sand traveling north and supplying
an added buffer area on our South Beach.
BOAT FIRE
On February 20th at approximately 12:30 pm Ventura County Fire
Department Dispatch received a report of a boat fire in Ventura
Harbor. With our storm staffing in place, we were able to respond by
land and with the fireboat. Harbor 1 staffed with Harbor Patrol Officers
Bobby Crane and Mark Kidman arrived first on scene and observed
an active fire in the main cabin of a 50’ power vessel docked at
Ventura West Marina. They both provided important scene
information via radio along with access locations. Harbor Patrol
Officers Mason Alford and Taylor Plasch responded in the Fireboat 1
arriving a few minutes later due to our speed restrictions within the
Harbor.
Since the vessel was docked next to the parking lot and Navigator,
the Fire Department asked we prioritize the moving of nearby vessels
to prevent further spread and damage. Harbor Patrol staff moved the
neighboring vessels while the Fire Department used their hose lines
to quickly extinguish the fire.
The quick response by all agencies resulted in minimizing and holding
the damage to the single vessel. Crews stayed on scene for close to
two hours to ensure it was properly extinguished which was followed
with a cause investigation. At the conclusion of the call, the vessel was released to the owner and
allowed to remain in the slip as there were no issues with it taking on water or showing signs that
it could reignite.
SAVE BOAT DISPOSALS
Several boats were destroyed in February by Tow Boat US Ventura and Derecktor Boatyard.
Additional boats are scheduled to be destroyed as space and weather permits. The demolition
exceeds the available funds. Priority stays with vessels in the water and our Harbor. The
Harbormaster currently keeps a list of interested parties and will continue to progress through the
list until the funds are exhausted.
Soundings:
Harbor Patrol staff have done unofficial soundings on several occasions since the storms and
have not found any significant issues with shoaling in the Harbor Entrance. There has been
significant infill in the sand trap and shoaling in the area of the Arundel Barranca. As of early
March, several professional surveys have been completed and will be included in the dredging to
begin mid-month.
VENTURA PORT DISTRICT
DEPARTMENTAL STAFF REPORT Meeting Date: March 20, 2024
TO: Board of Port Commissioners
FROM: Todd Mitchell, Sr. Business Operations Manager
Dave Werneburg, Marina Manager / Commercial Fisheries
SUBJECT: February 2024 Marina Report
MARINA DEPARTMENT ACTIVITIES
Ventura Harbor Village Marina Port District Dry Storage
* During the VenturaWaterPure project, the District’s Dry Storage lot is partially occupied by
construction activities as part of the Temporary Construction Easements with the City.
COMMERCIAL FISHING
California Market Squid Harvest – Ventura Harbor
2023-24 Squid Season opened April 1, 2023
California Market Squid Statistics
State-wide Seasonal Squid Limit: 118,000 tons 236,000,000 lbs.
Ventura February Squid Landings: 0 tons 0 lbs.
Ventura Season-to-date: 7,230 tons 14,458,401 lbs.
MARINA UPDATE
There was no squid offloading for the month of February in Ventura, largely due to increased
wind, wave and precipitation. The current squid season will end March 31 and the start of the
next squid season will be April 1st. Since the statewide landing limits were not reached, the squid
season will remain open continuously. Ventura and Port Hueneme squid offloading companies
continue to have vessels staged in Ventura Harbor Village Marina waiting for the squid catch sizes
to suit market demand.
California spiny lobster season for 2023/2024 closes March 23. This means increased activity in
and around the docks and parking lots with traps coming in. Prawn and rockfish have been a
steady offload with white seabass and halibut catch increases to start in the next month.
A new small-scale ice machine has been purchased by Del Mar Seafoods. The unit is on sight
and waiting final installation.
DRY STORAGE
Demand remains high for new Dry Storage tenants with a wait list now over 100 boat owners to
be potentially placed at the District’s Dry Storage and at Derecktor’s Dry Storage once the
VenturaWaterPure Project is complete.
Total Slip Count 103 100% Total Spaces 88 100%
Slips Assigned 102 99% Active Contracts 71 81%
Slips Occupied 106 103% Available 0* 0%
Slips Available 0 0%
Staff have amended its Parking Management Plan to the City to potentially relocate Dry Storage
to part of the 19A lot (located at the corners of Schooner and Harbor) where VenturaWaterPure
currently has boats stored. If approved, the District’s current Dry Storage would become a surface
parking lot. These changes could take place in the second half of 2024.
Valentine’s Day
2.5k
Clicks
February weekend live music was
limited due to weather, but included:
February 17 | Goldrush
February 25 | Mac & D
Visitor Experience
February 2024 report showcases samples & highlights of the Ventura Harbor Visitor Attraction Plan.
FEBRUARY MARKETING REPORT –
Event & Film Liaison permitted 2 February Beach Wedding
Ceremonies. February Onsite Rental Revenue =
R E V E N U E – Event Venue Rentals + Weddings
$625
E N T E R T A I NME N T
Ventura Harbor Village’s Chowder
Challenge delighted seafood aficionados!
The contest offered both digital entry
(to increase followers & reach) and an
onsite entry bonus (encouraging folks to
come onsite to photograph their
chowder) Ten winners received $20 gift
cards to Village restaurants, while one
lucky onsite entrant secured a $50 prize!
Chowder Challenger & Music
Lunar New Year Scavenger Hunt D E S T I N A T I O N
P L A C EMA K I N G –
The NEW Lunar New Year Scavenger Hunt drew significant crowds on Feb
10th, celebrating the year of the dragon! Twelve red dragon envelopes
were hidden throughout the Village and in participating retail spaces.
Guests who located them won a lucky $2 bill + $10 gift cards to a variety
of Village eateries, as feasting with family & friends is a core tradition
associated with the Chinese holiday. The grand prize winner received a
complimentary Dragon pedal boat experience with Ventura Boat Rentals!
E V E N T P R OMO T I O N S –
Celebrated Love in the Sea Air in February, enticing
guests with 10 lovely finds under $10 and coastal
experiences from pink flamingo boats, gourmet
chocolate, scenic dining spots, bottles of local Rosé, &
walks along the waterfront. Cross promo also included
Ventura Pottery Gallery’s annual Valentine’s sale.
C O N T E S T I N G –
146k
Engagements
48k
Plays
7
Reels
41k
Reach
77k
Impressions
Social post link clicks
increased by 1,000
clicks (80%) in February
due to contesting &
additional digital ads!
S O C I A L ME D I A
V I S U A L S
C O P YWR I T E
Marketing & Events Coordinator II produced a series of original stories & reels, plus
repurposed user generated content, with topics featuring the Lunar New Year
Scavenger Hunt, Top This Chocolate, Brophy Bros. Boatyard Pub, Lemon & Lei,
Baja Bay Surf & Taco, and Black History Month Chalk art demonstration.
R E E L S
– Cross Network Performance Metrics
– Sampling of Content
– Enewsletters / Blogs
– Short Video Compilations
74k
Total Audience
883k
Impressions
27k
Engagements
3k
Post Clicks
5
E-Newsletters
17k
Subscribers
22k
Opens
631
Link Clicks
Topics included: Lunar New Year Celebrations, Valentine’s Day, and the National
Clam Chowder Day – Chowder Challenge + 2 internal tenant newsletters in February!
*February 2024 report showcases samples & highlights of the Ventura Harbor Visitor Attraction Plan.
FEBRUARY MARKETING REPORT – Content Development
*
A D V E R T I S I N G – Digital Retargeting + Print
Retargeting campaign driving
visitation to the Warm Yourself
Seaside Blog! Targeting included:
LA +50 mi, Ventura +50 mi.
T E N A N T C OMMU N I C A T I O N
C U L T U R A L R E C O G N I T I O N
Outreach & Stewardship
February 2024 report showcases samples & highlights of the Ventura Harbor Visitor Attraction Plan.
FEBRUARY MARKETING REPORT –
ME D I A O U T R E A C H & C O V E R A G E
Never limit yourself because of others’ limited imagination” – Dr. Mae
Jemison (first African American woman in space). Incredible chalk portrait
by artist, Randall Williams, was on display in February in honor of
#blackhistorymonth. Marketing Coordinators I & II collaborated to create a
reel reaching over 6k, spreading inclusive & educational creative content.
– Earned Editorial
– Black History Month
Exposure of popular seasonal whale
watching appeared in Los Angeles
Daily News, Ventana Monthly, Ventura
County Star, VC Reporter, Valley
Scene Magazine, California.com. Other
online editorial coverage featured
Ventura Harbor’s other attractions,
including Ventana Magazine, and
Explore Online. Both Day Trippen and
Ventura Mom’s Collective highlighted
pre coverage of Mermaid Month for
Harbor Village. Pasadena Magazine
Editor-In-Chief , Malina Saval, media
visit to Ventura Harbor was cancelled in
February, due to atmospheric river
event and will reschedule in late spring.
– Annual Village Celebration!
Interactions
1 6 5
Reached
6 , 5 8 2
Over 40 Village business representatives, VPD staff, and commissioners
attended the the 5th annual Ventura Port District Tenant Recognition. Village
businesses were honored for a major milestone in 2023.
Anja’s Boutique Barefoot Boutique Margarita Villa
5 Years 10 Years 20 Years
February 29 – Deep Sea Wine
VENTURA PORT DISTRICT
DEPARTMENTAL STAFF REPORT Meeting Date: March 20, 2024
TO: Board of Port Commissioners
FROM: Todd Mitchell, Sr. Business Operations Manager
Jessica Snipas, Business Operations Analyst II
SUBJECT: February 2024 Property and Leasing Report
LEASING HIGHLIGHTS
1) Development Projects
• Staff have worked with Rasmussen & Associates, RRM Designs, and IDI US to
evaluate the optimal use and potential façade alterations needed for the two
restaurants in 1575 Spinnaker Drive that closed in December 2023.
• Staff and the team have prepared an advertising package to engage with prospective
restaurant tenants. This package is attached to this report.
2) Tenant Engagement
• Tenant portal usage campaign: Continually taking calls and meetings to provide
account set-up and step-by-step assistance with the portal process, in addition to the
step-by-step instructions emailed.
• Staff met with one tenant to discuss their lease.
• Staff continues to coordinate with the City and multiple tenants regarding their
planning, building, and safety permits.
3) MRI Property Management Software
• As of February 29, 2024, rent has been paid for fifty leases via the tenant portal.
4) Leasing Advertising, Showings, and Executions
• Staff met with the architect and tenants for follow up meetings regarding the Fast-
Take-Away Sign Program modification and the ‘More Shops’ Signage Project at the
Village.
• Continued social media ads on Facebook and Instagram.
• Staff had five appointment showings.
• Three lease executions; five out of the six newly renovated suites in building 1559
have been leased.
• Attended the Ventura Chamber Connection Breakfast.
CURRENT VACANCY REPORT
1) 1559 Spinnaker Drive #205A (Office suite)
• Construction of the five separate office suites and one restaurant addition (leased to
an existing restaurant tenant to expand their back-of-house space) was completed.
The suites have been vacant during construction, however leasing efforts have begun,
and four out of the six units have been leased.
2) 1591 Spinnaker Drive #117B
• Previous tenant relocated to suite 1559 #103. Marketing efforts began prior to previous
tenant move-out.
3) 1575 Spinnaker Drive #101/102/103/105A & B
• Lease underwent early termination. Staff prepared a marketing package for the spaces
after consultation with architects and restaurant consultant.
CURRENT AVAILABILITY REPORT
1) 1559 Spinnaker Drive #202B
• Tenant relocated to 1559 #205E. Leasing efforts begun prior to lease expiration.
2) 1591 Spinnaker Drive #207
• The previous tenant’s lease expired December 31, 2023. The neighboring tenant (#205)
was month-to-month and their lease ended January 5, 2024. Due to the neighboring
tenant’s newly constructed office completion date being extended, they requested a
month-to-month lease for suite #207. The request was for three to four months. Staff is
permitted to conduct showings and leasing efforts begun prior to lease expiration.
3) 1583 Spinnaker Drive #104A
• Staff met with tenant in June 2023 and in the beginning of January 2024. Tenant
requested to continue month-to-month status to continue to evaluate business prior to
committing to a long-term lease.
4) 1583 Spinnaker Drive #101
• Staff and tenant have met three times to negotiate terms of a new lease. New lease
will begin in May.
CATEGORY TOTAL Harbor Harbor Harbor Harbor City * City *
Square Vacancy Vacancy Available Available Vacancy Available
Footage Sq Ft % Sq Ft % % %
Office 38,591 897 2% 1,726 4% 17% 21%
Retail 20,196 761 4% 500 2% 19% 22%
Restaurant 33,622 3,720 11% 3,764 11% 0% No Data
> Harbor Vacancy — No tenant or lease
Office: 1559 #205A
Retail: 1591 #117B
Restaurant: 1575 #101/102/103/105 A & B
> Harbor Available — Tenant on MTM lease, including Harbor Vacancy numbers
Office: 1559 #202B
1591 #207
Retail: 1583 #104A
Restaurant: 1583 #101
* City: Based on comparable square footage within Ventura 93001 area
** City Restaurant vacancy/available as reported by CoStar Group
*** Definition of available includes MTM status
(Note that total square footage values have been updated as of the April 2023 reporting period to reflect
recategorization of some units and the addition of the GSA lease for National Park Service offices which
were not previously included).
Date Source Update: Staff has returned to extracting data from the CoStar Group. CoStar has
offered significant discount pricing and has agreed to work with staff to update its database on
Village comparable.
SALES REPORTS
The attached summary of sales for three Harbor Village business categories: restaurants, retail,
and charters. The reports compare the monthly sales for 2024 and 2023. They also include yearto-
date comparisons.
The January 2024 overall sales for all Harbor Village Tenants were up 3.54% from the same time
last year.
VEHICLE TRAFFIC COUNTS
Spinnaker Drive Entrance Schooner Drive Entrance
Month February January February January
Car Count 103,384 93,311 40,905 38,906
Busiest Day Saturdays: 19,944 Wednesdays: 17,265 Saturdays: 6,652 Fridays: 5,874
Busiest Hour Saturdays: 4 PM Tuesdays: 5 PM Thursdays: 4 PM Tuesdays: 4 PM
ATTACHMENTS:
Attachment 1 – Jan 2023 Sales Report
Attachment 2 – 1575 Spinnaker Drive – Vacancy Advertising Package
Attachment 3 – Photos of Renovated Suites in Building 1559
Month of
January %
January-2024 January-2023 Change
Restaurants $ 1,406,539 $ 1,287,058 9.28%
Retail $ 277,543 $ 291,203 -4.69%
Charters $ 173,049 $ 215,386 -19.66%
Total $ 1,857,131 $ 1,793,647 3.54%
Year-to-date through January
%
Jan – Jan 2024 Jan – Jan 2023 Change
Restaurants $ 1,406,539 $ 1,287,058 9.28%
Retail $ 277,543 $ 291,203 -4.69%
Charters $ 173,049 $ 215,386 -19.66%
Total $ 1,857,131 $ 1,793,647 3.54%
Ventura Harbor Village
Tenant Sales Summary
ATTACHMENT 1
ATTACHMENT 2
ATTACHMENT 2
ATTACHMENT 2
ATTACHMENT 2
ATTACHMENT 2
ATTACHMENT 2
ATTACHMENT 2
ATTACHMENT 2
ATTACHMENT 2
ATTACHMENT 2
Suite 1559 #205A
3 Offices with Reception Area; 897 SF
ATTACHMENT 3
Suite 1559 #205B
Open Area + Office; 532 SF
ATTACHMENT 3
Suite 1559 #205C
Open Area + Office; 549 SF
ATTACHMENT 3
Suite 1559 #205D
Open Area + 2 Offices; 646 SF
ATTACHMENT 3
Suite 1559 #208
Reception Area + Office; 468 SF
ATTACHMENT 3
BOARD OF PORT COMMISSIONERS
MARCH 20, 2024
CONSENT AGENDA ITEM A
APPROVAL OF OUT-OF-TOWN
TRAVEL REQUESTS
VENTURA PORT DISTRICT CONSENT AGENDA ITEM A
BOARD COMMUNICATION Meeting Date: March 20, 2023
TO: Board of Port Commissioners
FROM: Brian D. Pendleton, General Manager
SUBJECT: Approval of Out-of-Town Travel Requests
RECOMMENDATION:
That the Board of Port Commissioners approve the out-of-town travel requests for:
a) John Higgins, Harbormaster to attend the California Boating Safety Officers Association’s
symposium from April 7-11, 2024 in Lake Tahoe, CA.
b) John Higgins, Harbormaster to attend the California Water Safety Coalition Summit from April
16-17, 2024 in Folsom, CA.
c) Todd Mitchell, Sr. Business Operations Manager to attend the American Society of Civil
Engineers – COPRI Ports & Harbors Committee Meeting from April 11-12, 2024 in San Diego,
CA.
d) Todd Mitchell, Sr. Business Operations Manager to attend the CMANC Conference from May
15-17, 2024 in San Diego, CA.
SUMMARY:
Employees and Commissioners are encouraged to attend conferences, meetings, seminars, and
other activities that provide an opportunity to be informed concerning matters of interest to the
District and their position. The General Manager is recommending staff participate in the events
listed herein.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES:
1) Maintain a safe, navigable, and resilient harbor.
6) Provide exceptional public service and organizational transparency.
5-YEAR OBJECTIVE:
D) Ensure dredging occurs annually at the federal Harbor entrance and as needed in the inner
Harbor.
E) Encourage public and civic engagement; maintain high levels of organizational transparency;
and promote Harbor-wide diversity, equity and inclusion through District policies, procedures
and programs.
BACKGROUND:
CALIFORNIA BOATING SAFETY OFFICERS ASSOCIATION SYMPOSIUM
This 3-day event brings agencies from throughout the state with the goals of enhancing safety on
the water. It includes lectures and hands on training. The staff of the CA State Parks Division of
Boating usually attend and provide updates to key programs that affect operations. In addition to
the Association activities, there is a robust attendance by the major marie vessel manufacturers.
Having a goal of narrowing down the search for a new fireboat, this event will provide face time
with the vendors as well as the opportunity to speak with other agencies who have already gone
with vendors and have boats in service.
CALIFORNIA WATER SAFETY COALITION SUMMIT
This summit focuses on the practices, programs, and policies that reduce drowning and aquatic
injuries. The group does not focus soley on the ocean, but instead includes pools, lakes, and
underserved populations where swim lessions and other programs can be improved. Participation
will allow us to introduce programs to Ventura County Agencies with the goal of decreasing
aquatic injuries and drowning in the area.
AMERICAN SOCIETY OF CIVIL ENGINEERS (ASCE) COPRI PORTS & HARBORS
COMMITTEE MEETING
Mr. Mitchell has been an active participant in ASCE’s Coast Oceans Ports Rivers Institute
(COPRI) Ports and Harbors Committee since 2011. He is on the Younger Member Sub-
Committee and has been working with that group on Ports Conference events benefiting younger
members since the Ports conference in 2016. Mr. Mitchell is also active in the Sea Level Change
for Marine Civil Works Sub-Committee, which is currently developing a manual of best practice
that helps owners and engineers solve challenges and make key decisions in the design of marine
structures. Attending one in-person meeting every two years is a requirement of all committee
members. As the Committee meets throughout the United States, attending in San Diego provides
a convenient and low-cost opportunity to meet that obligation.
CMANC SPRING MEETING
Sr. Business Operations Manager (SBOM) Mitchell will travel to San Diego to participate in the
CMANC Spring Meeting. The SBOM is the current Chair of CMANC. The benefit to the District
for this travel is to meet with representatives of both local District and regional Division staff of the
US Army Corps of Engineers to continue to advocate for full funding for dredging Ventura Harbor’s
entrance channel in Federal Fiscal Year 2025 and beyond. The CMANC conference will also
enable collaboration with other California Ports and Harbors about the navigation goals for
California and develop the implementation strategy for those goals, including Ventura Harbor. It
is also an opportunity for in-person strategy meetings with our consultant Carpi & Clay.
FISCAL IMPACTS:
Travel costs related to these activities are included in the FY23-24 budget.
ATTACHMENTS:
None.
HIGGINS CBSOA CWSC
Registration $200.00 $150.00
Lodging $501.90 N/A
Meals $315.00 $180.00
Mileage $615.06 $305.00
Miscellaneous
(Transit/Parking)
$100.00 $40.00
TOTAL $1,731.96 $635.00
MITCHELL COPRI CMANC
Registration $0.00 $500.00
Lodging $576.33 $493.85
Meals $180.00 $180.00
Mileage $260.00 $260.00
Miscellaneous
(Transit/Parking)
$100.00 $100.00
TOTAL $1,116.33 $1,533.85
BOARD OF PORT COMMISSIONERS
MARCH 20, 2024
CONSENT AGENDA ITEM B
APPROVAL OF A NEW OFFICE LEASE
AGREEMENT WITH DA VEGA FISHER
MECHTENBERG LLP AND TRINIDAD
ENTERTAINMENT CORPORATION FOR
1567 SPINNAKER DRIVE #201 AND
#202
VENTURA PORT DISTRICT CONSENT AGENDA ITEM B
BOARD COMMUNICATION Meeting Date: March 20, 2024
TO: Board of Port Commissioners
FROM: Brian D. Pendleton, General Manager
Todd Mitchell, Sr. Business Operations Manager
Jessica Snipas, Business Operations Analyst II
SUBJECT: Approval of New Office Lease Agreement with Da Vega Fisher Mechtenberg LLP
and Trinidad Entertainment Corporation for 1567 Spinnaker Drive #201 and #202
RECOMMENDATION:
That the Board of Port Commissioners approve a new Office Lease Agreement between the
Ventura Port District dba Ventura Harbor Village and Da Vega Fisher Mechtenberg LLP and
Trinidad Entertainment Corporation for the premises located at 1567 Spinnaker Drive #201 and
#202 consisting of approximately 1,500 square feet for a three-year term with one two-year option.
SUMMARY:
Da Vega Fisher Mechtenberg LLP, has leased 1567 Spinnaker Drive #201 and #202 since
January 1, 2018. Trinidad Entertainment Corporation is a prospective new tenant seeking to be
a co-tenant of the lease. If the lease is approved by the Board, it will commence on April 1, 2024.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES:
3) Grow financial sustainability through a reliable, recurring revenue stream supplemented with
grants and public-private partnership investment while maintaining responsible budgeting
practices.
5) Build respectful, productive relationships with employees, tenants, residents, visitors,
stakeholders, public officials, and elected representatives while promoting diversity, equity,
and inclusion.
5-YEAR OBJECTIVES:
R) Seek opportunities to grow revenues and secure grants; continue to improve the quality,
efficiency, and transparency of financial reporting, monitoring, and property management.
3) Leasing/Property Management
BACKGROUND:
Ted Mechtenberg, a partner at Da Vega Fisher Mechtenberg LLP, has been a good-standing
tenant for over six years (two separate leases over that period). The Ventura Harbor Village
location is one of the three offices in California for the law practice.
Erik Pence is the CEO of Trinidad Entertainment Corporation, which is an investment holding
company. Mr. Pence also is the Head of Business for Framerate, a digital media company.
Due to the existing relationship the District has with Mr. Mechtenberg, a long-standing tenant,
staff is recommending a new office lease having a step increase from the current lease.
FISCAL IMPACT:
This lease renewal steps up the monthly rent towards market rate for office suites at Ventura
Harbor Village and has additional annual step increases. The suite will be leased “as is”.
ATTACHMENTS:
Attachment 1 – Location Map
ATTACHMENT 1 – LOCATION MAP
BOARD OF PORT COMMISSIONERS
MARCH 20, 2024
CONSENT AGENDA ITEM C
APPROVAL OF 2024 LIFEGUARD
SERVICES CONTRACT
VENTURA PORT DISTRICT CONSENT AGENDA ITEM C
BOARD COMMUNICATION Meeting Date: March 20, 2024
TO: Board of Port Commissioners
FROM: Brian D. Pendleton, General Manager
John Higgins, Harbormaster
SUBJECT: Approval of 2024 Lifeguard Services Contract
RECOMMENDATION:
That the Board of Port Commissioners authorize the General Manager to enter into a contract
with the Department of Parks and Recreation to provide Lifeguard Services from mid-May 2024
through Labor Day 2024 at Harbor Cove and Surfers Knoll beaches in the amount of $158.125.93.
SUMMARY:
Ventura Harbor and its Beaches are among Ventura’s most popular summer destinations. The
beneficial reuse of high quality dredge material results in some of the best sand and best beaches
in the City. Visitors from Ventura, Los Angeles, and Kern Counties flock here to escape the inland
heat, partake in the numerous healthy activities, and enjoy the Harbor Villages’ many amenities.
Placing public safety as a high priority, the Ventura Port District decided to take the lead in
providing summer lifeguards at Harbor Cove Beach after the City of Ventura eliminated services
in 2011. The solution at that time was to contract with California State Parks. Since that time, and
after a drowning on the unprotected South Beach in 2014, the services have been expanded to
meet the demands of this higher population of visitors.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES:
1) Maintain a safe, navigable, and resilient harbor.
5) Build respectful, productive relationships with employees, tenants, residents, visitors,
stakeholders, public officials, and elected representatives while promoting diversity, equity,
and inclusion.
6) Provide exceptional public service and organizational transparency.
7) Provide high-quality Harbor and coastal visitor-serving amenities, services, facilities and
infrastructure.
5-YEAR OBJECTIVES:
E) Encourage public and civic engagement; maintain high levels of organizational transparency;
and promote Harbor-wide diversity, equity and inclusion through District policies, procedures
and programs.
BACKGROUND:
Ventura Harbor is one of the few locations in Ventura County that provides a complete user
experience. Our Harbor, beaches, merchants, restaurants, National Park Headquarters, sport
fishing boats, dive boats, and Island Packers give the visitor tremendous value and entertainment
in one intimate location. As Southern California history has shown, the beach is a proven valuable
commodity, and the government agency’s investment returns are strong. Local visitors and
outside tourists are attracted to safe, lifeguarded beaches, and the result is a robust local
economy, higher property values, and consistently higher sales taxes. Our investment in a
complete lifeguard service has brought us crowds mid-week and after the traditional summer
months, which benefits our merchants and restaurants. We expect this trend to continue.
District Staff recommends entering into another contract with State Parks for $158,125.93 as
proposed. State Parks has done a fantastic job each year. Rescues continue to decrease with
preventative lifeguarding and public education. The Harbormaster will continue to work with State
Parks to ensure that the highest level of service is provided while respecting the need to preserve
Port District funds.
Staff will also continue to work with the City of Ventura Fire and Recreation Departments to
evaluate cost-effective service delivery methods, such as joint-service concepts. Staff will report
back to the Commission should any significant opportunities present themselves.
FISCAL IMPACT:
The Lifeguard Contract for 2024 is estimated at $158,125.93 (vs. $143,362.19 in 2023) due to the
increase in hourly rates for Lifeguard I/II, some off-season coverage options, and repair/rehab of
towers.
ATTACHMENT:
None
BOARD OF PORT COMMISSIONERS
MARCH 20, 2024
STANDARD AGENDA ITEM 1
PRESENTATION BY OCEAN
RAINFOREST, INC. REGARDING A
PROPOSED MACRO ALGAE FARM
PROXIMATE TO VENTURA HARBOR
VENTURA PORT DISTRICT STANDARD AGENDA ITEM 3
BOARD COMMUNICATION Meeting Date: March 20, 2024
TO: Board of Port Commissioners
FROM: Brian D. Pendleton, General Manager
Eliza Harrison, Program Manager, Ocean Rainforest
SUBJECT: Presentation by Ocean Rainforest, Inc. regarding a Proposed Macro Algae Farm
Proximate to Ventura Harbor
RECOMMENDATION:
That the Board of Port Commissioners:
1) Receive a presentation from Ocean Rainforest, Inc. regarding their proposed project for a
commercial macro algae (kelp) farm proximate to Ventura Harbor.
2) Authorize the General Manager to execute letters and provide public comment to
regulatory and resource agencies in support of Ocean Rainforest’s proposed project for a
commercial macro algae (kelp) farm proximate to Ventura Harbor.
SUMMARY:
Ocean Rainforest, Inc. is a subsidiary of the parent company – Ocean Rainforest, Sp/F – with
over ten years of experience in offshore cultivation of kelp and other seaweed species. Since
2018, Ocean Rainforest has worked within the funding framework of Advanced Research Projects
Agency – Energy (ARPA-E) MARINER program through the U.S. Department of Energy to
demonstrate the economic and social opportunities of offshore Giant kelp cultivation in the U.S.
Having installed an 86-acre demonstration project five miles off the Santa Barbara coast in
April/May 2023, Ocean Rainforest is poised to apply for a commercial scale permit in federal
waters off the coast of Ventura.
Ocean Rainforest’s presentation to the Ventura Port District intends to shed light on the
challenges and opportunities associated with seaweed cultivation in the Santa Barbara Channel,
as well as answer any immediate questions with respect to the potential impacts or benefits to
the District that could stem from such an effort.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES:
2) Advance the harbor’s vibrant, working waterfront in support of commercial and recreational
fishing and boating.
3) Grow financial sustainability through a reliable, recurring revenue stream supplemented with
grants and public-private partnership investment while maintaining responsible budgeting
practices.
4) Establish and implement harbor-wide environmental sustainability policies and practices
through collaboration with our business partners.
5-YEAR OBJECTIVES:
F) Support current and future commercial fishing and sustainable aquaculture industries. Maintain
and improve working waterfront facilities and infrastructure.
1) Engage with commercial fishing and sustainable aquaculture interests in Ventura
Harbor.
2) Continue improvements of District’s working waterfront infrastructure.
3) Continue to pursue opportunities for diversifying commercial fishing and sustainable
aquaculture.
BACKGROUND:
Since 2018, Ocean Rainforest has worked within the funding framework of Advanced Research
Projects Agency – Energy (ARPA-E) MARINER program through the U.S. Department of Energy
to demonstrate the economic and social opportunities of offshore cultivation of seaweeds in the
U.S. Primed by Ocean Rainforest, Inc., the MacroSystems project specifically focused on the
commercial feasibility of a species named Macrocystis pyrifera, more commonly known as Giant
Kelp.
During Phase 1 of the cooperative agreement (2018 –2019), the MacroSystems team designed
a state-of-the-art cultivation structure that minimally impacts existing marine operations (e.g.,
navigation, commercial fishing, etc.) and supports ecosystem services in the surrounding
environment. In Phase 2 of the ARPA-E contract (2020 – 2023), Ocean Rainforest and partners
developed the necessary technology and machinery to de-risk the full chain from propagation to
planting, cultivation and harvesting. Their team successfully designed, installed, and operated a
hatchery/lab facility. Ocean Rainforest also worked with the Santa Barbara Mariculture Company
to conduct a series of smaller scale out-planting trials to demonstrate the capabilities of the
design, as well as begin to optimize the factors that significantly affect the economics and scaling
up of operations.
In parallel, Ocean Rainforest secured an individual permit from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
(USACE) and an associated Voluntary Consistency Certification from the California Coastal
Commission (CCC) for an 86-acre demonstration project approximately 5 miles off the Santa
Barbara Coast. As part of both permits, Ocean Rainforest is required to adhere to strict monitoring
protocols – including, but not limited to, infrastructure surveys, marine mammal observation,
benthic surveys, commercial fishing activities, etc.
The demonstration project was installed in April 2023 in collaboration with local partners and
marine operators in the Santa Barbara/Ventura area. Since then, Ocean Rainforest states they
have remained in full compliance with all USACE and CCC special conditions. In that sense, none
of the approved, third-party providers for infrastructure monitoring have observed damage to the
OCU or lost gear. In late December 2023, the OCU also demonstrated excellent survivability in a
marine weather event akin to a 50-year storm. Marine Mammal Observers from the Channel
Islands Maine and Wildlife Institute (CIMWI) have not observed any negative interaction between
the OCU infrastructure and marine wildlife in more than 25 recorded instances. Ocean Rainforest
will continue the Marine Mammal Monitoring Program for the duration of the demonstration project
period. Concurrently, Ocean Rainforest and the Vantuna Research Group (VRG) have not
observed any negative effects on the benthic environment.
With an additional $4.5 million “Plus Up,” (i.e., Phase 3), Ocean Rainforest will operate and gather
data from the demonstration project with the goal of refining offshore cultivation techniques for
Giant kelp. Concurrently, Ocean Rainforest will retrofit a pilot processing facility outside of Goleta,
CA, to support product market development. The company’s initial focus will be on animal feed
and biostimulant products with the intention to support the state’s existing agriculture industry.
In the coming months, Ocean Rainforest intends to apply for an approximately 2,000-acre permit
in the Santa Barbara Channel. The area will support a collection of modular ocean cultivation
units (OCUs) that consist of similar components to those used at the existing Ocean Rainforest
demonstration project site (i.e., anchors, chains, hardware, ropes, and buoys).
Their team recognizes that one of the primary concerns associated with U.S. aquaculture
development is the durability and survivability of offshore infrastructure. To address these
outstanding questions and further “de-risk” offshore cultivation, Ocean Rainforest is prepared to
embrace a sequenced construction schedule. Adopting this approach will better ensure they are
able to take advantage of the best available technology while further refining and optimizing
system design.
Ultimately, the commercial scale project intends to:
1. Increase the supply of safe, sustainably produced and locally grown seaweed while
minimizing potential negative environmental impacts.
2. Enhance and diversify Ventura Harbor as a major west coast resilient and sustainable
fishing port and support the local economy through the addition of sustainable
aquaculture.
3. Promote diversification of aquaculture practices and leverage the US seafood deficit by
creating a new industry.
4. Strengthen public knowledge and understanding of sustainable seaweed farming
practices.
5. Advance scientific knowledge and state of the art aquaculture practices through research
and innovation.
FISCAL IMPACT:
There are currently no fiscal impacts.
ATTACHMENTS:
Attachment 1 – Ocean Rainforest Commercial Scale Seaweed Cultivation Initiative in the Santa
Barbara Channel.
ELIZA HARRISON
DIRECTOR OF CALIFORNIA OPERATIONS
MARCH 2024
COMMERICAL SCALE
SEAWEED CULTIVATION
INITIATIVE IN THE SANTA
BARBARA CHANNEL
ATTACHMENT 1
A rainforest in
the ocean
Our purpose is to improve
people’s wellbeing by growing
seaweed while making a unique
contribution to our blue planet.
ATTACHMENT 1
TEAM
ATTACHMENT 1
 Long-standing expertise in
offshore aquaculture
 Maintains four ocean
cultivation units at sheltered
and exposed sites across the
Faroe Islands
 230,000m of seeded lines on
approximately 150 acres
 Participated in or led 15+
EU projects since 2007
OFFSHORE
CULTIVATION
ATTACHMENT 1
Make macroalgae
cultivation a
commercially attractive
business investment!
PROJECT VISION
DESIGN OF
LARGE SCALE
MACROALGAE
SYSTEMS
▪ Scalable – in cultivation systems
▪ Survivable – in open ocean conditions
▪ Sustainable – in energy & marine
ecosystems
▪ Predictable – in yield and quality
▪ Profitable – enabling return of
investments
ATTACHMENT 1
 De-risk the full chain
from propagation to
planting, cultivation and harvesting
 Demonstrate the capabilities of
the proposed cultivation design
 Optimize the aspects and factors
which have a great impact on the
economics and scaling up of
operations
PROJECT VISION
PHASE 1
2018-2019
PHASE 2
2020-2023
▪ Design cultivation
system scalable >1000 ha
▪ Reduce cost by direct seeding
▪ Harvest up to 30 tons/ hour
▪ Profitability of operation with
a production cost <$80/DMT
▪ Identify over 100.000 ha
suitable for Macrocystis
cultivation
ATTACHMENT 1
PHASE 2 ACHIEVEMENTS
 Designed, installed and operated a
hatchery facility
 Developed innovative machine for
direct seeding in partnership with
SEAWISER
 Successfully executed first known
direct seeding trials with Macrocystis
 Seeded 5,500+ m of line at nearshore
site over two years
 There was canopy development on
virtually all experimental backbone
lines.
 Biomass development met or
exceeded expectations for year 2.
ATTACHMENT 1
INDIVIDUAL PERMIT
▪ 86-acre permit 5 miles off the Santa Barbara Coast
▪ Proposed as a research and development initiative
to support the goals and objectives of the ARPA-E
Mariner Program
▪ Demonstrate the feasibility of growing Giant kelp
in true offshore conditions.
ATTACHMENT 1
PHASE 3
2023 – 2026
 Operate the offshore site
 Test innovative aquaculture
technologies
 Design and operate a
pilot processing facility outside
of Santa Barbara
 Facilitate product
market development efforts
ATTACHMENT 1
OFFSHORE DEMONSTRATION PROJECT
 All infrastructure was installed
between April and May 2023
 Offshore Cultivation Unit (OCU)
seeded in 2023 and 2024
 Opportunity to gather additional
data regarding the impact of
seaweed farming on the
marine environment
 Ocean Rainforest successfully
demonstrated Giant
kelp cultivation in
offshore conditions in 2023!
ATTACHMENT 1
UPCOMING COMMERCIAL SCALE APPLICATION
ATTACHMENT 1
PROPOSED
LOCATION
 Anticipated permit area request
of 1,500 – 2,000 acres
 Network of highly tensioned,
grid like cultivation units to
support commercial scale
aquaculture
 Expected yield between 216
288 tons per cultivation unit
per year
ATTACHMENT 1
PRODUCTION
REQUIREMENTS
 Dockside support (i.e., cranes,
boat hoists, etc.)
 10,000 to 12,000 sq ft facility
 Truck bay loading and unloading
capacity
 Equipment storage and
workshop space
 Opportunities for hands on
internship experience in
partnership with local
schools/community colleges
ATTACHMENT 1
PRELIMINARY ECONOMIC IMPACT
ASSESSMENT
▪ Job creation during construction
o ~ 150 direct
o ~ 350 indirect
▪ Job creation during production
o ~ 50 direct
o ~ 125 indirect
▪ Gross Economic Impact: $30 – 50 million per
year
ATTACHMENT 1
CO2
uptake
Reduces global
heating and
acidification of the
oceans
Uptake of
nutrients
Creates
ecosystems
Provides habitat and
feeding chamber for
fish and marine
animals
No use of land,
fertilizer or
freshwater
A new
innovative
industry
Profitable
business
Job creation in
rural areas for
highly educated
people
Scalable and safety
marine industry
Anti-inflammatory,
pre & probiotics
Nutraceutica
l & medical
The potential for providing large quantities
of food and biomass from seaweed
mariculture is much larger than for any
other group of marine organisms.”
Ref. SAPEA 2017 Evidence Review Report, more than 100 European science academies.
ATTACHMENT 1
Eliza Harrison | Director
of California Operations
Eliza@oceanrainforest.com
Office – 805.722.9601
Cell – 505.204.8163
THANK YOU!
ATTACHMENT 1
BOARD OF PORT COMMISSIONERS
MARCH 20, 2024
STANDARD AGENDA ITEM 2
APPROVAL OF A HOLDOVER
AGREEMENT AND LICENSE AGREEMENT
WITH TBBW COMPANY, L.P. FOR
PREMISES AT 1198 NAVIGATOR DRIVE,
PARCEL 17 AND APPROVAL OF AN
EXCLUSIVE NEGOTIATING AGREEMENT
WITH TBBW COMPANY, L.P. AND
ALDERSGATE INVESTMENT II LLC FOR
PREMISES AT 1198 NAVIGATOR DRIVE,
PARCEL 17 (LANDSIDE ONLY)
VENTURA PORT DISTRICT STANDARD AGENDA ITEM 2
BOARD COMMUNICATION Meeting Date: March 20, 2024
TO: Board of Port Commissioners
FROM: Brian D. Pendleton, General Manager
SUBJECT: Approval of a Holdover Agreement and License Agreement with TBBW
Company, L.P. for premises at 1198 Navigator Drive, Parcel 17 and Approval of
an Exclusive Negotiating Agreement with TBBW Company, L.P. and Aldersgate
Investment II LLC for premises at 1198 Navigator Drive, Parcel 17 (landside
only).
RECOMMENDATION:
1) That the Board of Port Commissioners approve each of:
i. a Holdover Agreement between the Ventura Port District and TBBW
Company, L.P. for the premises located a 1198 Navigator Drive (waterside
portion of the premises only), (a) bifurcating the premises under the existing
expiring lease into waterside premises and landside premises, (b) changing
the tenancy under the existing Master Lease to a holdover for the waterside
premises only, in connection with entitlements and approvals of a
modernization of the marina operated at the waterside premises, (c) and
creating a Construction Fund to offset construction of the modernization
project, and
ii. a License Agreement between the Ventura Port District and TBBW
Company, L.P. for the premises located a 1198 Navigator Drive (landside
portion of the premises only) to allow the continued and historical use of the
landside premises, i.e., providing marina service facilities to the marina
located at the waterside premises.
2) That the Board of Port Commissioners approve an Exclusive Negotiating
Agreement between the Ventura Port District and TBBW Company, L.P. and
Aldersgate Investment II LLC for the premises located a 1198 Navigator Drive
(landside portion of the premises only) for a three-year term with three (3) twelve
(12) month extensions upon the satisfaction of certain milestones in connection
with a proposed development and operation of a mixed-use/residential
development at the premises.
SUMMARY:
The current master tenant of Ventura West Marina (Phase 1) located on Lease Parcel 17 is TBBW
Company, L.P., a California limited partnership (TBBW). Beauchamp Realty, Inc. (Beauchamp) is
an associated entity of TBBW and operator of Ventura West Marina. The master tenant’s lease
expires on March 20, 2024, but contains a right of first refusal for a new lease, which TBBW
requested. On June 21, 2023, the Board of Port Commissioners received an informational report
regarding a preliminary development concept for Ventura West Marina (Parcel 17) involving a
modernization of the marina and redevelopment of the land by Master Tenant TBBW,
Beauchamp, and Aldersgate Investments II LLC (Aldersgate) and authorized the General
Manager to initiate formal lease negotiations pursuant to the Master Lease.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES:
4) Establish and implement harbor-wide environmental sustainability policies and practices
through collaboration with our business partners.
5) Build respectful, productive relationships with employees, tenants, residents, visitors,
stakeholders, public officials, and elected representatives while promoting diversity, equity,
and inclusion.
7) Provide high-quality Harbor and coastal visitor-serving amenities, services, facilities and
infrastructure.
5-YEAR OBJECTIVES:
M) Collaborate with Master Tenants and National Park Service to plan, improve, and develop
the Harbor in a financially and environmentally sustainable way.
1) Engagement and support of Master Tenants for successful business operations at the
Harbor.
2) Evaluate opportunities for Parcel Development.
BACKGROUND:
TBBW has been a Master Tenant since 1974 and is the original developer of Ventura West Marina
(Lease Parcel 17). Its associated entity, Beauchamp, has been the operator since 1977. Richard
Beauchamp is the original and current managing principal for TBBW. Richard Beauchamp is also
developer and managing principal for Master Tenant for Ventura West Marina Phase 2 (Lease
Parcel No 7) which was built in 1982. Mr. Beauchamp, his family partners, and related entities
have extensive experience in developing and operating Southern California marinas. This
experience includes (i) Dana West Marina (980 slips) in Dana Point, CA, (ii) Harbor Island West
Marina (620 slips) in San Diego, CA, (iii) Pier 32 Marina (250 slips) in National City, CA, and (iv)
Point Loma Marina (60 slips) in San Diego, CA.
In addition to their marina experience, Beauchamp also has extensive experience in multi-family
housing development and operation as well as commercial real estate development and operation
throughout Southern California and Arizona. Other business experiences for Richard Beauchamp
and his family partners include the development of Western Dental, which at one time included
owning and operating over three hundred dental offices in California, Nevada, and Arizona.
Development Team
The development team for TBBW will be headed by Richard Beauchamp and Eric Leslie. Mr.
Leslie has been the Director of Marina Operations for Beauchamp for over 30 years and has been
the lead of all new marina acquisitions and development during this time. In addition, Mr. Leslie
oversees all the property management operations for Beauchamp and is a principal in the recent
marina developments. TBBW is partnering with local developer and operator Aldersgate for the
Landside Mixed-Use/Residential Redevelopment.
Aldersgate is a local, family owned, multi-generational real estate development and construction
firm with over 40 years of experience in Ventura County. Matt Mansi is the Chief Operating Officer.
Mr. Mansi’s firm specializes in residential, multi-family and mixed-use buildings and
developments. Local projects include The Mark Camarillo, Press Courier Senior Apartments,
Parkwest Camarillo and Vista Urbana.
With Board approval, there will be two separate sites. Parcel 17 (Waterside) and Parcel 17
(Landside):
Parcel 17 (Waterside) – Marina Modernization
With approval by the Board, TBBW will obtain a Holdover Agreement, and License Agreement
from the District to pursue waterside marina modernization plans; environmental review under the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA); project consideration by the District; regulatory
entitlements and approvals; and project financing. The District may consider entering a 50-year
master lease at the conclusion of this process but is not obligated to do so in the Holdover and
License Agreements. In the meantime, the Holdover Agreement will allow TBBW to continue to
operate the marina in its “as-is” condition, and the License Agreement will provide TBBW access
to both utilize and maintain the landside facilities and parking necessary to operate the marina.
The Holdover Agreement is for a period of three (3) years.
TBBA will reimburse the District’s legal, consultant and staff costs associated with processing of
these agreements, proposed project, environmental review and lease, if any. Minimum monthly
rent and landside license fee will be $37,450 and $800 respectively. TBBW will place the greater
of $300,000 or 50% of net profits annually into escrow as a project construction fund to be utilized
towards the cost of the marina modernization.
Parcel 17 (Landside) – Mixed-Use/Residential Redevelopment
With approval by the Board, TBBW and Aldersgate will obtain an Exclusive Negotiating
Agreement (ENA) to pursue landside plans which may include uses such as commercial retail,
restaurant and office; market rate and affordable housing; parking; open space and site upgrades;
environmental review under CEQA; project consideration and final approval by the District;
regulatory entitlements and approvals; project financing; and construction completion security.
The District may consider entering a 50-year master lease at the conclusion of this process but is
not obligated to do so in the ENA. Any future landside lease, if any, will be required to provide the
marina with minimum facilities (including minimum parking as required by law) necessary to
service the marina use. The ENA is for a period of three (3) years, with up to three (3) one-year
extensions, for a total of up to six (6) years.
TBBW and Aldersgate will reimburse the District’s legal, consultant and staff costs associated
with processing of these agreements, proposed project, environmental review, and lease, if any.
TBBW and Aldersgate will provide a $50,000 deposit towards these costs, which will be drawn
down to pay for costs and expenses as incurred and returned to $50,000 in the event the balance
of the deposit is reduced to $25,000 or less.
FISCAL IMPACTS:
The negotiation of the agreements is triggering legal expenses with a preliminary estimate of
$75,000. TBBW and Aldersgate have agreed to pay the District’s legal expenses as described
above.
Minimum monthly rent and landside monthly minimum license fee will be $37,450 and $800,
respectively. TBBW will place the greater of $25,000 or 50% of net profits monthly into escrow as
a project construction fund to be utilized towards the cost of the marina modernization and fully
released when TBBW has satisfied the conditions to enter into a new lease for the waterside
premises; provided, however, in the event TBBW does not timely satisfy such conditions, the
project construction fund shall be released to the District, to be used for impending necessary
marina modernization.
ATTACHMENTS:
Attachment 1 – Location Map
Attachment 1 – Location Map
Parcel 17 – Waterside
Parcel 17 – Landside
BOARD OF PORT COMMISSIONERS
MARCH 20, 2024
STANDARD AGENDA ITEM 3
APPROVAL OF AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO A
RESTAURANT LEASE AGREEMENT WITH
AARMARK BEER GARDEN, INC. DBA
THE LOOSE CANNON
VENTURA PORT DISTRICT STANDARD AGENDA ITEM 3
BOARD COMMUNICATION Meeting Date: March 20, 2024
TO: Board of Port Commissioners
FROM: Brian D. Pendleton, General Manager
Todd Mitchell, Business Operations Manager
SUBJECT: Approval of Amendment No. 1 to a Restaurant Lease Agreement with Aarmark
Beer Garden, Inc. dba The Loose Cannon
RECOMMENDATION:
That the Board of Port Commissioners approve Amendment No. 1 to the Restaurant Lease
Agreement Aarmark Beer Gardens, Inc. a California corporation dba The Loose Cannon, and the
Ventura Port District dba Ventura Harbor Village, for the premises located at 1567 Spinnaker
Drive, Suite #100 consisting of approximately 5,736 square feet of commercial space and 600 of
patio area.
SUMMARY:
Staff is recommending a First Amendment to Lease: 1) to address delays impacting plan approval
and construction, consequently pushing back the anticipated opening and commencement of rent
dates; and 2) to adjust the District’s contribution to tenant improvements to consider the shifting
of performance of some portions of the work between the District and the Tenant and the
associated changes in reimbursements to the Tenant from the District.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES:
3) Grow financial sustainability through a reliable, recurring revenue stream supplemented with
grants and public-private partnership investment while maintaining responsible budgeting
practices.
5) Build respectful, productive relationships with employees, tenants, residents, visitors,
stakeholders, public officials, and elected representatives while promoting diversity, equity,
and inclusion.
5-YEAR OBJECTIVES:
R) Seek opportunities to grow revenues and secure grants; continue to improve the quality,
efficiency, and transparency of financial reporting, monitoring, and property management.
3) Leasing/Property Management
BACKGROUND:
On January 19, 2022, the Board conducted a public hearing and adopted Ordinance 56 entering
into a new lease between the District and Aarmark Beer Gardens, Inc. for 1567 Spinnaker Drive
#100.
Aarmark Beer Gardens Inc. had leased the entire first-floor suite (approximately 5,736 square
feet) and will provide a mix of entertainment (video arcade and virtual reality) and restaurant for
public benefit.
BUSINESS CONCEPT
The new business is The Loose Cannon. The concept, as provided by Aarmark Beer Gardens,
Inc. is:
“Friends and family can leave their worries at the door in our state-of-the-art family
entertainment center. We will offer a wide array of entertainment options for all ages featuring
multi-sport simulators, Virtual Reality, retro arcade games, a stadium seating sports viewing and
more. We will complement our entertainment with an artisan food menu that will please even
the pickiest of palates. Our food offerings include wood-fired pizza, artisan sausage, grass-fed
burgers, salads, giant pretzels, a full kid’s menu, plus some fun theme focused menu items. For
our adult patrons, we proudly offer top rated beers from around the world and a legendary wine
list. Come for the food, stay for the fun! An experience like no other.”
CONSTRUCTION PROGRESS
Since the lease was executed, both the District and Tenant have experienced challenges that
have resulted in delays.
The District’s improvement responsibilities included façade improvements, including new doors
and windows, upgrading the electrical service, patio work, and roof replacement. Prior to the
District starting their work, they experienced delays in obtaining architectural designs and in
obtaining the required permits from the City. These permits were required prior to the District
bidding the work to a contractor, which was done in two phases, hence the District’s improvement
responsibilities were late to be completed.
Furthermore, to construct the necessary work efficiently, some of the District and the Tenant’s
improvements are intertwined, such as roof penetrations for the kitchen, rough plumbing, and
electrical upgrades. The District contemplated portions of these improvements as its fiscal
responsibility under the lease.
The District’s contractor materially completed the building improvements by the beginning of
September 2023 and the suite was turned over to the Tenant on October 11, 2023. This is
significantly later than was originally contemplated under the lease. Two elements remained for
the District’s contractor to complete: installation of the upgraded electrical panel and pouring new
concrete for the patio (discussed further below).
The Tenant has had challenges obtaining the necessary permits from the City to allow them to
perform their tenant improvements. There were many areas of miscommunication between the
City’s plan review companies and the Tenant’s architect and engineering firms. However, the City
did grant a Courtesy Permit allowing the tenant to perform some parts of the tenant improvement
construction in advance of receiving their building permits. It is anticipated the tenant will be issued
their building permits by next week, and they can complete construction.
Tenant Improvement Cost Allocation
The original lease between the District and Tenant specified the obligations of each to perform
improvements to the suite. Most of the District’s improvements were completed prior to the Tenant
taking possession of the suite, however some were deferred since they required the City to
approve the plans of the tenant before the District could construct them. For example, the Tenant’s
plans also include two small patio spaces on the north and south side of the building. The patios
will include new gas lines under the concrete for fire pits plus patio fencing. Since the District’s
contractor was already going to replace the concrete under the previously awarded Façade
Improvement Project, this work was deferred until the City approved the tenant’s plans.
Other items deferred include the purchase and installation of the HVAC units, pouring concrete
where the carousel was previously located, defective sprinkler replacement, electrical upgrades
from the electrical panel throughout the suite, and relocating and replacing a plumbing line from
Margarita Villa to divert it away from the Loose Cannon’s kitchen.
During the plan review, the City also determined that tenant’s improvements require performing
improvements that include an alteration of the parking lot that is required to meet updated
American Disabilities Act (ADA) code for path of travel. Staff recommend that this expense be
reimbursed to the tenant by the District since this is a benefit to multiple Village businesses and
the public in general.
Because the City had not approved the tenant’s plans, the District’s portion of the work has not
been completed. To avoid overlapping work by contractors, Staff is recommending that the
tenant’s contractor perform this work and the tenant be reimbursed for the costs.
A breakdown of those cost adjustments can be found in Attachment 2.
RECOMMENDED ACTION
Staff is recommending that the Board approve the following changes to the lease through this
First Amendment to Lease:
• Change the commencement of rent date to the earlier of July 1, 2024 or the restaurant
receiving a Certificate of Occupancy.
• Change the date by which the restaurant is expected to open to July 1, 2024.
• Change the amount reimbursable to the tenant from the District to fund improvements that
are the District’s responsibility under the lease. This changes the reimbursable amount
from $80,000 to $213,814.54 It does not change the responsibilities of the parties under
the lease.
• Staff further recommends that the General Manager be authorized to approve change
orders up to 10% for any item should staff believe such changer order is needed for the
District to complete its obligations under the lease.
FISCAL IMPACT:
The delay in the tenant’s ability to open for business is partly due to delay in the tenant taking
possession of the suite. It is also partly due to challenges experienced in the permitting process.
Staff is recommending that the Commencement of Rent date be changed to July 1, 2024, with no
options for further extension since the tenant should obtain their building permits from the City by
next week. Based on the delay in rent commencement, this has a fiscal impact of $42,995.16 for
abated rent. However, for revenue forecasting purposes, Staff did not include this amount in
FY23-24 which ends June 30, 2024.
The designs for the tenant improvements to the suite required some changes be made to the
building that are defined as the District’s responsibility under the lease. In addition, the tenant
improvements have altered some of the sequencing for completing previously contracted work
under the District’s Façade Improvement Project, which is being performed by FCT Construction.
These changes shift the party completing the work but do not change the responsibility for the
work under the lease. These changes need to be incorporated into the lease amendment to allow
the General Manager to authorize reimbursement of these expenses to the tenant. However, they
do not change the fiscal impact to the District.
ATTACHMENTS:
Attachment 1 – Location Map
Attachment 1 – Location Map
Attachment 2 – Breakdown of Cost Adjustments
Item (Modified in Amendment) Cost Paid By Responsibility
HVAC Units & Installation $ 62,500.00 Tenant District
Marg RR Plumbing $ 8,450.00 Tenant District
Marg RR Plumbing Trenching $ 2,200.00 Tenant District
Sprinkler Head Replacement $ 6,500.00 Tenant District
Power & Electrical Upgrades $ 42,000.00 Tenant District
Concrete Where Carousel Was $ 12,464.54 Tenant District
ADA Parking Lot Improvements $ 11,200.00 Tenant District
Exterior Gas Lines for Fire Pits $ (3,500.00) District Tenant
Patio Fence (both sides) $ (8,000.00) District Tenant
Maximum Reimbursement (Additional): $ 133,814.54
Maximum Reimbursement (Original): $ 80,000.00
Revised Reimbursement Amount $ 213,814.54
BOARD OF PORT COMMISSIONERS
MARCH 20, 2024
STANDARD AGENDA ITEM 4
APPROVAL OF A STATEMENT OF WORK
UNDER THE EXISTING PROFESSIONAL
SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH MRI
SOFTWARE
VENTURA PORT DISTRICT STANDARD AGENDA ITEM 4
BOARD COMMUNICATION Meeting Date: March 20, 2024
TO: Board of Port Commissioners
FROM: Brian D. Pendleton, General Manager
Todd Mitchell, Sr. Business Operations Manager
Gloria Adkins, Accounting Manager
SUBJECT: Approval of a Statement of Work Under the Existing Professional Services
Agreement with MRI Software
RECOMMENDATION:
That the Board of Port Commissioners approve a Statement of Work under the existing
Professional Services Agreement with MRI Software for an amount of $27,880 plus
reimbursement of travel costs estimated at $5,000.
SUMMARY:
In March of 2022, the Board approved a three-year term with two-year option professional
services agreement with MRI Software (MRI) to replace the previously used accounting and
property management software. The transition to MRI software has been somewhat problematic
and challenges remain that need to be addressed through a combination of additional training,
technical support, and problem solving specific to the needs of the District.
Therefore, staff is recommending that the District utilize the provision in the contract to have inperson
training and support for a period of two weeks coinciding with the monthly rent
reconciliations and distribution of tenant statements.
LONG-TERM GOALS:
• Goal 6: Public Service
o Provide exceptional public service and transparency at all levels within the
organization through effective leadership, training, mentoring, and oversight. This
promotes accountability, increased public trust, and more efficient, effective and public
focused organization.
5-YEAR OBJECTIVES:
• Objective E: Public and Civic Engagement Plan
o Strengthen communication and further develop close working relationships with
stakeholders, business partners, and civic leaders
▪ 1: Collaborate with business partners and stakeholders through increased
engagement, communication, and participation.
BACKGROUND:
After the contract award to MRI, staff worked to begin the migration process from the previous
accounting program to MRI. This process was tedious and slow. MRI’s support through this
process was not ideal and the migration services failed to live up to Staff’s expectations. In
response, some concessions by MRI in both compensation and time were provided.
Although training was provided by MRI, less than what was budgeted was used in the early stages
of implementation.
However, MRI has made (and continues to make) substantial changes in how their software
operates. Some of these changes have radically altered how certain processes work (such as
online rent payments are made). Some changes have had positive impacts to the tenant
experience using the online portal – but sometimes the opposite has been true. And periodic
changes have had significant negative impacts to District staff.
The present audit of FY22-23 has also revealed areas where MRI has made the Accounting
workflow challenging.
In attempting to resolve issues as they arise, Staff has determined that the quality of MRI’s
technical service response has been lacking 1) in timely resolution, 2) accuracy, and 3)
consistency. Further, some system updates have been implemented that have had negative
impacts on the ability of the Administration Department to perform their work.
Although the challenges in working with MRI could justify switching software at the end of the
current contract (June 30, 2025), Staff believes it to be premature to make such a change without
exhausting the possibility of solving these problems through in-person training.
Therefore, Staff is recommending MRI send an expert technical support person to work on-site at
the District for a period of 2 weeks (80 hours) to assist staff in improving the entire workflow. It is
anticipated that this action will allow staff reach a decision point regarding MRI as the right solution
for the District’s accounting needs going forward by the end of the current contract.
FISCAL IMPACT:
The annual cost for MRI Software is $10,435, with an annual increase of 5% or CPI, with a max
increase of 9% per year. The on-site training is within the original contract scope and will require
an increase of $32,880 in the budget.
ATTACHMENTS:
None.