Ventura Voices

Get to know the work of Ventura’s Environmental Sustainability Division in this special episode of Ventura Voices hosted by Communications Specialist Alejandra Belalcázar. Environmental Specialists Arriana Rabago and Logan Babcock share how the division has grown from early recycling initiatives into a citywide leader in waste reduction, clean energy, and long-term climate planning.Hear about the division’s evolving programs, how community programs guide their work, and how initiatives like the Food Waste Recycling Program, Free Compost & Mulch Program, and Green Schools partnerships are helping Ventura build a more sustainable future.This episode offers a closer look at the department’s programs and the community impact of its efforts.Learn more about the sustainability topics discussed in this episode:Environmental Sustainability Division: https://www.cityofventura.ca.gov/194/Environmental-SustainabilityFood Waste Recycling Program: https://www.cityofventura.ca.gov/264/Residential-ServicesFree Compost & Mulch Program: https://www.cityofventura.ca.gov/2524/Free-Compost-Mulch-ProgramGreen Schools Program: https://www.cityofventura.ca.gov/1206/Green-Schools-Program

Get to know Ventura’s new Chief of Police, David Dickey, in this special episode hosted by City Manager Bill Ayub. Chief Dickey shares how he got his start in law enforcement, what led him to join the Ventura Police Department, and his vision for the future of public safety in our city.Hear his take on the importance of community policing, how trust and transparency guide his leadership, and what the new Mounted Patrol Unit means for Ventura. Plus, we wrap up with some fun rapid-fire questions to help you get to know the person behind the badge.This episode offers a closer look at the department’s evolving priorities and the leadership shaping its next chapter.Learn more about the policing topics discussed in this episode:- Chief David Dickey: https://www.cityofventura.ca.gov/817/Command-Staff- E-Bike Safety: https://www.cityofventura.ca.gov/2541/Electric-Bicycles- Mounted Patrol Unit: https://www.cityofventura.ca.gov/2693/Mounted-Patrol-Unit- Patrol Task Force: https://www.cityofventura.ca.gov/2630/Patrol-Task-Force

In this episode of Ventura Voices, we're diving into one of Ventura’s most urgent issues—wildfire prevention. With memories of the 2017 Thomas Fire still fresh and new wildfires threatening communities across California each year, we sit down with two wildfire safety leaders to discuss how Ventura residents can prepare and protect.Ventura Fire Marshal Brett Reed and Stephen Watson, Executive Director of the Ventura Regional Fire Safe Council, join Senior Communications Specialist Emily Ayala to unpack the tools and tactics that help prevent the next big fire. From creating defensible space and hardening your home to understanding CAL FIRE's draft fire hazard severity zone maps and the power of Firewise USA communities, this episode is packed with practical tips and inspiring local stories.Let this episode be your spark for change.Resources from the episode:- Fire Hazard Reduction Program: Cityofventura.ca.gov/FHRP - CAL FIRE's draft Fire Hazard Severity Zone map for Ventura: Cityofventura.ca.gov/FHSZ - Free Home Wildfire Assessments: venturafiresafe.org/home-wildfire-assessments/ - Firewise USA: https://venturafiresafe.org/firewiseusa/ - VC Alert: https://www.readyventuracounty.org/vc-alert/

Public Information Officer Jennifer Nance sits down with Fire Chief David Endaya and Ventura Water General Manager Gina Dorrington for an insightful discussion on the intersection of fire and water and how both departments work together to protect Ventura. In light of the recent destructive Palisades, Eaton, Hughes, and Mountain Fires, they explore the critical role of fire suppression, water infrastructure, and emergency preparedness. The conversation also takes a look back at the Thomas Fire, reflecting on its lasting impact and the significant changes made over the past seven years to strengthen Ventura’s resilience. Learn more about emergency preparedness in Ventura at www.cityofventura.ca.gov/EmergencyPreparedness.Find details about water conservation, rebates, and incentives: https://www.cityofventura.ca.gov/ConservationOpt-in to receive emergency notifications through VC Alert at vcalert.org.

Deputy City Manager Brick Conners joins Communications Specialist Taylor Pineda to discuss one of our most requested topics yet—golf. Brick shares updates on multiple projects at the City's two municipal golf courses, Buenaventura and Olivas Links. Learn about the progress and challenges in rebuilding Buenaventura after severe flooding in 2023, a temporary solution for golfers this spring, and upcoming facility improvements at Olivas Links. Stay up to date at www.cityofventura.ca.gov/Golf