Oxnard City Council has taken a significant step towards enhancing parking management in the city by approving a new program aimed at property owners with large parking lots. During the meeting on June 26, 2025, the council discussed a proposal that allows any property owner with a parking lot of 200 or more spaces to opt into the program. This initiative is designed to provide guidance and support from the community development department, ensuring that property owners can effectively manage their parking facilities.

The program is citywide and specifically targets commercial and retail properties, excluding residential areas. There are no fees associated with joining the program, aside from potential hourly charges for staff time to review submitted paperwork. Once property owners are enrolled and comply with their submitted plans, they will not need to interact with city staff unless there are complaints regarding non-compliance.

Council members expressed their appreciation for the staff's efforts in developing this program and acknowledged the importance of effective parking management. The discussion also highlighted the broader implications of parking space usage, referencing the book "Paved Paradise" by Henry Grabar, which explores the historical and societal impacts of parking in America.

The council emphasized that this initiative is not about generating revenue from parking citations but rather about improving local commerce and community health by encouraging more efficient use of space. The meeting concluded with a call for community members to consider the benefits of the program and its potential to transform parking management in Oxnard.