During the City Council meeting held on July 15, 2025, in Oxnard, California, significant discussions centered around the proposed anti-harassment ordinance aimed at protecting tenants from intimidation and harassment. The meeting featured multiple community members voicing their support for the ordinance, emphasizing the need for equity and representation in housing matters.
Councilwoman Perez opened the dialogue by acknowledging the importance of the ordinance, highlighting the historical context of community engagement that led to its development. She noted that many tenants and young people had shared their experiences over the past two years, which underscored the urgency of addressing harassment in housing situations. Perez expressed gratitude to community organizers and leaders who played pivotal roles in bringing the ordinance to the council's attention.
Several speakers, including Jocelyn Lucas and Marbelli Cruz, reiterated their support for the ordinance, emphasizing the long-standing struggles tenants have faced. They called for equitable treatment and the right to live without fear of harassment. Jocelyn Gomez also contributed to the discussion, reflecting on the personal stories shared by tenants during previous meetings and advocating for their right to feel safe in their homes.
The council's deliberations included responses to concerns raised by the Realtors Association regarding the ordinance's implications. Mayor Pro Tem and other council members engaged in discussions to clarify these points, indicating a commitment to addressing all stakeholders' concerns while prioritizing tenant protections.
The meeting concluded with a strong sense of community involvement and a commitment to advancing the ordinance, which aims to create a safer and more equitable living environment for all residents. The council's next steps will likely involve further discussions and potential amendments to ensure the ordinance effectively addresses the needs of the community while balancing the interests of property owners.