Commissioners Sommer, Robinson reappointed to planning panel

November 07, 2014
Santa Paula News

The City Council recently appointed two incumbent members of the Planning Commission to four-year terms and for Chairman Michael Sommer it’s a position he has held since 2006.

In fact, Sommer has the most seniority on the panel that reviews applications for discretionary projects, such as Planned Development (PD) permits, Conditional Use Permits (CUP) and variances and conducts public hearings on land-use related matters, whether projects are large or small.

Also reappointed to the Planning Commission was Fred Robinson. The former City Councilman and Mayor has served on the commission since January 2013 when he was appointed to fill a short-term vacancy, a seat that had been held by Rita Graham, who moved out of the area.

The council - except for Councilman Ralph Fernandez, who was absent - interviewed Marvin Beck, Robinson and Sommer in September; at the October 6 City Council meeting Vice Mayor Jim Tovias recommended Robinson and Sommer, which was approved without discussion.  Fernandez, who late last year criticized the selection process and questioned the function of the Planning Commission, recused himself from voting due to his earlier absence when interviews were conducted.

Sommer has been described as politically astute and a good chairman that is able to guide the meetings with aplomb.

When asked about the Commissioner with the longest tenure, Planning Director Janna Minsk said Sommer, “Is a commission asset... he brings balance, thoughtfulness and comes prepared to discuss the meeting agenda items.

“During my tenure, Michael has been selected as Planning Commission Chair several times by his peers, which speaks highly of his leadership skills and ability to conduct meetings,” even those that on occasion turn contentious, and “treat staff, applicants, the public and fellow commissioners fairly and with dignity.”  

Other commissioners are John Demers, who was appointed to his first commission term in October 2013; Gus “Ike” Ikerd, appointed April 2012; and John Wisda, appointed in July 2009 and the second longest member of the panel. 

Wisda has been critical in recent months of the Planning Commission and the City Council, based on his concerns for the dwindling water supply and future planned developments.

Regular Planning Commission meetings are held on the fourth Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in City Council Chambers, 970 Ventura St.

Meeting agendas are posted 72 hours in advance of the meeting on the glass in front of City Hall. 

Planning Commission meetings may be cancelled periodically due to the lack of business item. Members of the public are asked to call the Planning Department (805-933-4214) in advance to confirm meeting dates.

Unlike City Council meetings, Planning Commission sessions are not televised on cable television or streamed online.





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