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
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11. Fire prevention
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/
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10. Facing wildfire: Fire & Water in action
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.
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9. Golf course projects and updates
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
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8. Inside Ventura's emergency communications
Communications Specialist Emily Ayala sits down with PIO Jen Buckley, Emergency Services Manager Mack Douglass, and newly promoted Fire Battalion Chief Shawn Hughes for an in-depth conversation on emergency communications in Ventura.
In this episode, they dive into the importance of timely and accurate information during crises, sharing insights from recent local incidents, including the Pierpont gas leak and major flooding events.
The team also breaks down how VC Alert works, why it's crucial for residents to stay informed, and the collaborative efforts between City departments that keep our community safe.
Learn more about emergency preparedness in Ventura at CityofVentura.ca.gov/EmergencyPreparedness.
Opt-in to receive emergency notifications throguh VC Alert at vcalert.org
Recommended apps to download:
- Watch Duty app for nearby wildfire and firefighter response information: app.watchduty.org/
- MyShake app for earthquake early notification: myshake.berkeley.edu/
Ventura Voices is a podcast series that connects residents to City staff and leaders. Each month, features new episodes tackling different topics that impact the community, such as housing, homelessness, water, golf, parking, roads, and more. Listen on the go, or watch the video version on YouTube to find the latest information on what's happening in our community. Website: www.CityofVentura.ca.gov.
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