City Council adopts first climate action plan and plans zoning code update

Thousand Oaks City Council has made significant strides in environmental and community initiatives, as highlighted in their recent meeting on March 18, 2025. A key decision was the adoption of the city's first Climate Environmental Action Plan, which aims to enhance safety and accessibility through various city services, including a newly launched mobile-friendly website.

Looking ahead, the council is set to undertake a comprehensive update of the zoning and sign codes, the first major revision since the 1970s. This update aims to create clear and objective standards that align with the city’s general plan. A community workshop to introduce this project is scheduled for March 19, inviting public input throughout the process, which is expected to conclude in 2026.

In addition to zoning updates, the Cultural and Community Services Department reported a busy year following its merger. The libraries alone saw over 400,000 visits and nearly 1 million materials circulated. Programs like the Summer Reading initiative engaged thousands of participants, while events such as LibCon attracted over 5,000 attendees, showcasing the community's vibrant cultural scene.

The council also discussed advancements in technology, including the adoption of an IT strategic plan aimed at modernizing city operations. This plan includes transitioning staff to laptops, enhancing the user experience with updated permitting systems, and improving the city’s GIS platform for better data accessibility.

As the city continues to evolve, these initiatives reflect a commitment to fostering community engagement, enhancing public services, and promoting sustainability. The council looks forward to ongoing collaboration with residents and stakeholders to ensure these efforts meet the needs of the Thousand Oaks community.