Committee backs staff security rules requiring one guard per 100 attendees, crowd manager at 500

Chair MacArthur and staff framed the security proposals as part of negotiations to split operations of the Oxnard Performing Arts & Convention Center (PAC) between Sterling Venue Ventures and the OPAC nonprofit. Deputy City Manager Katie Casey reiterated January committee direction to unify operations and asked policy guidance on event security, a recurring community concern after incidents raised by renters and nonprofit board members.

Staff recommended that auditorium gatherings require at least "one licensed security guard for a gathering with 100 or more attendees" and that gatherings exceeding 500 require an additional trained crowd manager. Julie (Cultural & Community Services operations) and other staff emphasized that police would still review elevated‑risk events and that the new category "gatherings" is meant to avoid onerous dance‑permit ratios for low‑risk community meetings.

Community speakers said the change is needed but urged clarity and stronger reporting. Maria Durant, who runs a youth performing‑arts program, told the committee she had rehearsals with 300 children and said staff at one rehearsal found there was no second security guard; she urged dependable coverage and better contractor communications.

Sterling operations representative Lance acknowledged licensed security is provided but warned that mandatory high ratios could make small local events financially unfeasible. After questions about children‑centered events and liability, committee members supported staff recommendations and asked staff to draft standardized reporting, protocols and contract exhibits for council review.

The committee did not take a final contractual vote tonight; members directed staff to document the security standards and reporting practices and return with contract exhibits for city council consideration in a future meeting.