Camarillo City Council approves Scholey House restoration and plans for Mills Act designation

The Camarillo City Council held a regular meeting on May 28, 2025, where significant discussions centered around the restoration of the Scholey House and the potential designation of the property under the Mills Act. The meeting began with a public hearing, during which Dennis Hargrave, representing the property owner, expressed strong support for the restoration efforts and the Mills Act designation.

Hargrave detailed the extensive work already undertaken, including approximately $300,000 spent on documentation and rehabilitation plans. He noted that the historical resources report related to the Scholey House has been archived in several databases, including the Library of Congress. Hargrave emphasized the importance of the Mills Act, which would provide property tax benefits to future homeowners while ensuring the preservation of this landmark property.

Council members engaged with Hargrave, seeking clarification on the Mills Act process and its implications. Mr. Sanchez, a council member with experience in Pasadena, confirmed that the Mills Act designation could be addressed in a future meeting, separate from the current discussions.

Council member Arteta expressed enthusiasm for the project, highlighting its value to the community and the financial support from the developer. Following this, the council unanimously approved the staff recommendations related to the Scholey House restoration.

The meeting concluded with a brief recess, allowing council members to regroup before continuing with the agenda. Overall, the discussions underscored a commitment to preserving Camarillo's historical assets while enhancing community identity.