Oxnard council hears hours of public comment as debate continues over OPAC management contract

The Oxnard City Council on Feb. 18 heard hours of public comment about whether to extend a five‑year operating agreement with Sterling Venue Ventures (SVV) for the Oxnard Performing Arts and Convention Center (OPAC), with nonprofit leaders urging the city to give the nonprofit direct management of the center’s ballrooms and meeting rooms.

Staff recommended that the council authorize the mayor to execute a facility management agreement with Sterling Venue Ventures to extend SVV’s operation, maintenance and management role for five years. Council members disclosed a range of ex parte contacts about the item; Councilwoman Rodriguez recused herself from the agenda item because she said she owns property within 1,000 feet of the site.

Why it matters: Speakers said management of the center affects community arts programming, youth workforce and education partnerships, and rental revenue that funds nonprofit programming. The nonprofit and SVV both argued they are best placed to serve Oxnard’s cultural needs; the council did not vote on the recommendation during the portions of the meeting captured in the transcript.

The staff recommendation on the agenda asked the council to authorize a five‑year amendment to the facility management agreement between the City of Oxnard and Sterling Venue Ventures. Council members briefly noted prior communications with both SVV and OPAC representatives before the public comment period began.

Supporters of Sterling Venue Ventures said SVV has expanded…