Ventura County planning commission approves 328‑unit Ventura Ranch farmworker housing after split vote

Ventura County Planning Commission on Feb. 19 approved the Ventura Ranch Farmworker Housing project, a phased, 328‑unit complex on a roughly 83‑acre parcel north of the city of Ventura, following extended public testimony and a 3–2 roll‑call vote.

Staff said the project meets applicable objective policies and standards and recommended multiple entitlements including a tentative parcel map, a planned development permit and a discretionary tree permit. Planning staff told the commission it found sufficient water pressure for the project and attached a water analysis and fire‑flow test as supporting exhibits; staff also recommended a revised condition (B‑21) to require a site‑specific wildfire preparation and evacuation education program reviewed annually with residents.

The project would develop about 20 acres of the western portion of the site into phased housing, remove five heritage trees and two oak trees (one oak to be relocated), and provide 1.19 acres of outdoor community space where 0.93 acres is required under the county ordinance. Staff filed that the units are sized consistent with the…