Council finds Emerald Perspective Cooperative out of compliance with development agreement after state action; 30-day cure period set

The Port Hueneme City Council on Tuesday adopted a resolution finding Emerald Perspective Cooperative Inc. out of compliance with its development agreement after staff said the business missed a contractual payment plan and the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration revoked seller permits.

Staff told council the business failed to make required payments under a previously approved payment plan and also lacked a current city business license. City auditors reported outstanding amounts totaling roughly $78,036 that include a 5 percent-gross-revenue fee spelled out in the development agreement, accumulated interest and past-due business license and review fees.

In addition, staff said the state’s tax agency notified the city in early July that it had revoked Emerald Perspective’s seller permits, and a later company update advised the city that state-level compliance problems would likely lead to closure. The city’s written finding of noncompliance begins a 30-day period during which Emerald Perspective may correct all deficiencies, including payment in full and resolution of state licensing issues; failure to cure would allow the city to terminate the development agreement and pursue enforcement steps.

Why this matters: The development agreement required Emerald Perspective to remain current on financial obligations to the city and to maintain state and local licenses to operate. Staff said they had repeatedly worked with the owner, offered a payment plan and allowed additional time to comply. With the state action, staff told the council the business was no longer operating legally and additional city remedies were appropriate.

Council action: After hearing a staff report and finding no public commenters on the item, the council voted unanimously to adopt the resolution that formally determined Emerald Perspective out of compliance and found the matter exempt from CEQA. Council also authorized staff to send the required notice to the business and property owner and to follow the remedial steps laid out in the development agreement.

What happens next: Staff will issue the 30‑day notice to Emerald Perspective and the property owner. If the business cures all defaults and clears state licensing, city staff said the payment plan and other accommodations could be reconsidered; if not, the development agreement may be terminated and the city may pursue other enforcement options and collection efforts.

Ending: City staff warned collection odds are uncertain because state action reportedly occurred to secure outstanding taxes and fees; the city said it will evaluate possible recovery options but cautioned there may be little remaining to collect once multiple creditors are involved.