The Ventura County Town Council held an online meeting on April 17, 2024, focusing on community engagement and emergency preparedness, particularly in light of recent road closures affecting evacuation routes.

The meeting began with a discussion led by Alisa, who emphasized the importance of community unity during challenging times. She highlighted the upcoming fifth annual Butterfly Day event, a town-sponsored festival aimed at promoting environmental education and advocacy for pollinators. The event will feature music, activities for children, and live demonstrations, with all profits directed towards environmental initiatives.

Following this, the council shifted its focus to emergency preparedness, specifically addressing concerns about evacuation protocols due to the closure of Topanga Canyon Boulevard. Fire Chief Smith and Megan Currier from the local fire department provided updates on the adaptations being made to ensure public safety. Chief Smith reassured residents that a comprehensive evacuation plan is in place, despite the challenges posed by the road closure.

The chief outlined the importance of timely evacuation orders, which are based on the nature of the emergency and the time available for residents to respond. He explained that the fire department is installing large steel containers at Fire Station 69 to store barricade equipment, which will assist law enforcement in managing traffic during evacuations. The chief emphasized the need for a unified command approach among emergency services to ensure effective communication and coordination during crises.

Residents were encouraged to familiarize themselves with evacuation procedures and to heed warnings, as these can indicate the need for proactive measures. Chief Smith also discussed the concept of "shelter in place," advising that in certain situations, staying at home may be safer than attempting to evacuate.

The meeting concluded with an invitation for residents to submit questions via chat, ensuring that all concerns could be addressed. The council committed to sharing any unanswered questions with Caltrans for further consideration.

Overall, the meeting underscored the town's commitment to community engagement and safety, particularly in light of ongoing challenges related to road access and emergency preparedness.