Council challenges Ventura County's approval of Wellhead Power battery storage project

During the City Council meeting held on March 4, 2025, in Oxnard, significant discussions centered around a contentious battery storage project proposed by Wellhead Power Solutions LLC. The council voted narrowly, 4 to 3, to direct the city attorney to challenge the approval of the Shoals project by the Ventura County Planning Commission. This project is set to be located on agricultural land south of Gonzales Road, approximately half a mile west of Victoria Avenue.

The decision reflects growing concerns among some council members regarding the potential impact of the battery storage system on local agricultural resources and the environment. Mayor MacArthur, along with Councilmembers Rodriguez, Perillo, and Mayor Pro Tem Turan, supported the challenge, emphasizing the need to protect agricultural land. In contrast, Councilmembers Starr, Basua, and Perez opposed the motion, indicating a divide within the council on how to balance development and agricultural preservation.

The meeting also included standard procedural elements, such as roll call and the Pledge of Allegiance, but the primary focus remained on the implications of the Shoals project. The council's decision to pursue legal action against the project highlights the ongoing debate in Oxnard about land use and development priorities, particularly as the city navigates the pressures of growth and sustainability.

As the city moves forward, the outcome of this legal challenge could set a precedent for future projects and their alignment with community values regarding land use. The council's actions signal a commitment to scrutinizing developments that may affect the region's agricultural landscape, reflecting broader concerns about environmental stewardship and community well-being.