Oxnard Council faces pressure to restore city treasurer position after legal ruling

The City of Oxnard is facing a pivotal moment regarding the restoration of its treasurer's department, following a contentious legal battle that has drawn significant public attention. During the recent Finance & Governance Committee meeting, a strong call was made for the reinstatement of Phil Molino, the city treasurer who was controversially removed from his position in 2018.

Molino, who was elected in 2016 and has since been re-elected twice, has fought to clear his name after being accused of harassment—a claim that was largely discredited by city staff. In a decisive 2024 election, Molino secured 97% of the vote, underscoring public support for his return. His legal struggle culminated in a ruling from the 2nd District Court of Appeals, which reinstated his position and salary, stating that the city could not "unelect" an official chosen by voters.

Despite this ruling, the city has yet to fully restore the treasurer's office to its previous state, with city manager Alexander Nguyen currently overseeing the statutory duties of the position. The city has left open the possibility of appealing the court's decision to the California Supreme Court, which has raised concerns among residents and supporters of Molino.

The committee was urged to respect the will of the voters and to provide Molino with the necessary resources to fulfill his elected role. The ongoing legal and administrative challenges highlight the importance of upholding democratic principles and the integrity of elected offices in Oxnard. As the situation develops, the community remains watchful, advocating for a resolution that honors the voters' choice and restores confidence in local governance.