Santa Paula council backs separate Measure R oversight committee with open application process

The Santa Paula City Council on Tuesday moved to create a separate oversight committee to review Measure R revenues and provide public input on how the sales‑tax proceeds should be prioritized and tracked.

Staff presented draft guidelines based on council direction from January 15, outlining three selection options: councilmember‑nominated district representatives, category‑based membership (similar to Measure T), or an at‑large open application process. Staff recommended a committee focused on budget oversight: review of the proposed budget and revenues, an annual independent report, and participation in budget workshops so the committee can present findings to council.

The hearing drew many public speakers. Iqalali Salgado (organizer with a local group) urged a “district‑based committee for Measure R… that has both oversight and advisory roles” and asked that meetings and materials be accessible in Spanish. Nydia Beyo (policy advocate) and other speakers pressed for transparency, district representation, the committee’s ability to review and audit expenditures, and exclusion of city staff or existing committee members to avoid conflicts of interest.

Council discussion focused on two issues: (1) how members are selected and (2) the committee’s duties. Several councilmembers said they support an open, advertised application process rather than direct, single‑person appointments; multiple members also favored prioritizing geographic representation by district but retaining flexibility if qualified applicants from a district cannot be found. Staggered four‑year terms were proposed so the panel does not turn over entirely at once; staff noted the draft currently used four‑year terms to align with other boards.

Councilmember Crosswhite advocated for an open application process with council solicitation of candidates; Councilmember Cornejo emphasized the committee’s role in maintaining public trust and recommended a clear, digestible annual report like Measure T’s. Staff noted the city already has survey data and will integrate the committee’s input with the city’s upcoming strategic planning and budget process.

On process the council gave staff direction: return with an adopting resolution and refined guidelines that (a) open applications citywide, (b) prioritize but do not strictly require district representation, (c) set staggered terms and conflict‑of‑interest rules (no city employees or members serving concurrently on Measure T), and (d) define duties around pre‑budget review and an annual independent report. Council and community speakers also asked staff to ensure outreach and Spanish‑language access.

What’s next: Staff will draft a resolution and final committee guidelines reflecting tonight’s direction and return for council adoption and appointments at a future meeting.