City Council delays decision on Amcal housing project over safety and liability concerns

In the heart of Camarillo's city hall, council members gathered on May 28, 2025, to address pressing concerns surrounding a proposed housing project just outside city limits. The atmosphere was charged with urgency as discussions unfolded about the implications of the development on public safety and community welfare.

At the center of the debate was a joint use agreement related to a large housing project by developer Amcal, which aims to provide farmworker housing. Council Member Barava voiced her apprehensions, highlighting the safety risks posed to children and families who currently navigate busy roadways to access schools and city resources. “I feel responsible to provide that same support and advocacy for these families,” she stated, emphasizing the need for a thorough review of the project’s safety measures before any decisions could be made.

Vice Mayor Janderson echoed these sentiments, pointing out gaps in the agreement that could leave the city vulnerable to liability. “We need to ensure that the city is protected,” he urged, calling for a more robust agreement that addresses the community's concerns. Council Member Santangelo added to the chorus of caution, expressing discomfort with the current state of the agreement and the necessity for written guarantees regarding safety measures.

The discussion revealed a broader concern about the developer's intentions. Council Member Trimbley articulated a critical perspective, suggesting that Amcal appeared to be shifting the burden of risk onto the city and its residents. “It shouldn’t be on the backs of the city and its residents,” he asserted, calling for clarity and accountability from the developer.

As the council deliberated, the urgency of the matter became apparent. The potential for funding opportunities loomed, and the council was keen to avoid jeopardizing the safety of current residents. The consensus was clear: further discussions were needed, and the agreement would be revisited in a future meeting, with hopes that Amcal would address the myriad concerns raised.

In the end, the council's commitment to safeguarding the community shone through. They resolved to prioritize the review of the agreement, ensuring that the voices of residents and their safety would remain at the forefront of the decision-making process. As the meeting adjourned, the council left with a renewed sense of purpose, ready to tackle the challenges ahead and advocate for the well-being of all Camarillo residents.