City adopts required code updates and asks staff to return with feasible local amendments

The Ojai City Council adopted on second reading a package of required code updates on Dec. 9 and directed staff to return with a targeted, time‑bound concept review of modest local amendments related to climate, geology and topography where permitted.

Why it mattered: State code cycles and statutory changes can limit a local jurisdiction’s ability to adopt certain modifications; councilmembers pressed staff about whether narrowly tailored exceptions (such as fire-hardening measures) could be considered during the current window.

What happened: During the second-reading discussion, council members asked staff to explore additional local amendments that would make sense in Ojai’s climate and geological context and to return with a menu of feasible options. Staff warned that the opportunity to make changes is narrow and flagged Senate Bill 130 as a factor that constrains some code-cycle modifications. Council member Whitman moved to adopt the ordinance and to direct staff to prepare a concept review and report back in a time frame consistent with code-cycle deadlines; council approved the motion by roll call.

What staff will do: Staff said they will work with the building official to identify modest amendments that can be justified by local climatic, geological or topographical conditions, and will provide a follow-up report so the council can decide whether to pursue ordinance changes that fit within the limited opportunity.

Outcome: The ordinance was adopted as recommended, and staff will return with the concept review and suggested minor modifications, mindful of SB 130 and any applicable deadlines.