Stay Informed
Local News
AI-curated coverage of what matters across the Central Coast
Showing news for Simi ValleyClear filter
News from Simi Valley
Simi ValleyRoyal’s big opener marred by football coach’s firing
Simi Valley, we need to talk about Friday night. Our Royal High football team took the field in Carpinteria for its second game of the season, and the players showed up with heart—but still no permanent head coach. The news broke earlier this week that Adam Brubaker was let go after a surveillance video showed him kicking a ball that struck a student-athlete. That's a tough shadow to play under, especially for the kids who just want to focus on the game. As a community, we're left with mixed feelings. We want our coaches to be role models, and when something like this happens, it stings. But let's also remember the real story here: a group of young athletes who showed resilience under a cloud of uncertainty. The Simi Valley Acorn has been on top of this from the start, and we'll keep you updated as the district works to name a new coach. For now, let's support our Royals—they deserve it.
Simi ValleyDefense contractor exchanges one East County city for another
Big news for Moorpark and Simi Valley: AeroVironment, the drone and defense tech company that's been a fixture in Simi for decades, is packing up and heading east to a new 20-acre campus in Moorpark. The company just announced a $100 million investment in a state-of-the-art facility designed to support their rapid growth. For those of us who've watched their presence in Simi, it's a bittersweet shift — but it's also a sign of the thriving tech economy right here in the 805. For Moorpark, this is a major win. A project of this scale means good-paying jobs, new construction, and a boost to the local economy. It also puts Moorpark on the map as a hub for cutting-edge drone technology. While Simi will feel the loss of a longtime corporate neighbor, it's reassuring to know that the company isn't leaving the region — just moving a few miles down the road. The Simi Valley Acorn first reported the news, and it's a story worth keeping an eye on as construction gets underway.
Simi ValleyRebecca Grossman files for divorce
Well, this is a story that just keeps unfolding. Rebecca Grossman, the former Hidden Hills socialite now serving time for the 2020 double-fatal crash that killed two young brothers, has filed for divorce from her husband, Peter. The news broke via the Simi Valley Acorn, and it lands just weeks after a jury ordered the Grossmans to pay nearly $200 million in a wrongful-death civil case. For our community, this feels less like celebrity gossip and more like a lingering shadow over the West San Fernando Valley and the 805 corridor — a reminder that the ripple effects of that tragic night in Westlake Village are still being felt. For Simi Valley readers, this development is a footnote in a much larger, painful chapter. The families of Mark and Jacob Iskander have been through years of legal battles, and this divorce filing suggests the personal and financial fallout is far from over. It's a heavy topic, but it's one that touches on accountability, loss, and how a single moment can unravel so many lives. We'll keep following the Acorn's reporting on this, and our hearts remain with the Iskander family as they continue to heal.
Simi ValleyThe Rams Open Down Under: What Simi Valley Fans Should Watch Before Kickoff
Rams fans in Simi Valley, get your jerseys ready — the season opener is happening on the other side of the world. Wednesday night football feels like a playoff game in September, and with the reigning MVP back, there's a real buzz around town. Whether you're catching the game at a local spot on Cochran Street or hosting a watch party at home, this is the kind of season that brings neighbors together. We've got a special connection to the Rams here in the 805, from the days at the Coliseum to the Super Bowl run. The Simi Valley Acorn has been tracking every offseason move, and it's clear this team is all-in. So mark your calendars, stock up on snacks, and enjoy the rare midweek kickoff — it's a great excuse to talk football at the water cooler on Thursday.
Simi ValleyComplicated field lab cleanup plods ahead
The Santa Susana Field Laboratory cleanup has been a long, winding road, and it’s good to see progress—even if it feels slow to those of us who’ve been watching for decades. As a Simi Valley neighbor, I know this isn’t just about soil and groundwater; it’s about our air, our water, and the peace of mind of families living right next to this historic site. The Simi Valley Acorn’s reporting reminds us that the work is moving forward, but the community’s voice is still crucial. Let’s keep pushing for a thorough cleanup—no shortcuts, no loopholes—because this is our home, and we deserve the highest standards. Here’s hoping the next phase brings more transparency and real, measurable results.
Simi ValleySimi Valley election field takes shape
Simi Valley, the election season is officially here, and this year’s ballot is packed. With five candidates vying for mayor and 14 more spread across City Council, school board, and the Rancho Simi Recreation and Park District, there’s no shortage of choices—or conversations to have around the dinner table. It’s a reminder that local races shape everything from the parks our kids play in to the way our city grows, so it’s worth paying attention. The filing window closing on Aug. 12 means the field is set, and now it’s our turn to dig in. The Simi Valley Acorn has been covering these races closely, and their breakdown is a great starting point for sorting through the names and issues. Whether you’re a longtime resident or new to the area, this is your chance to make your voice heard. Let’s get informed, talk to your neighbors, and show up on Nov. 3—because these decisions start right here at home.
Simi ValleySandy fire and field lab a dangerous combination
When the Sandy fire tore through the Simi Valley hills back in May, our first responders weren't just battling the flames—they were also protecting a piece of land that's been a source of local debate for decades. The Santa Susana Field Laboratory, with its history and lingering questions, sat right in the fire's path. Firefighters knew from that first night that keeping the blaze from crossing onto the property was just as critical as defending homes. Thankfully, the fire never reached the lab, but this close call is a stark reminder of the unique challenges our community faces. It's not just about fire safety; it's about the ongoing conversation around that site and what it means for our future. As we head into another dry season, it's worth reflecting on the work our firefighters do every day—and the layers of complexity they handle to keep us safe. Stay informed and stay prepared, Simi Valley.
Simi ValleyPark district puts brake on e-bike ordinance until more info gathered
If you've been riding an e-bike around Simi Valley, you might have noticed the conversation heating up at the Rancho Simi Recreation and Park District. At the Aug. 5 meeting, board directors decided to hit the brakes on a proposed e-bike and scooter ordinance, feeling the draft rules were a bit too heavy-handed. They also flagged a bigger worry: modified bikes and e-motorcycles that don't fit neatly into current categories. It's a classic Simi balancing act—keeping our trails and paths safe while not cramping the style of folks who just want to cruise to the park. The delay means more community input and a closer look at what's actually zipping around our open spaces. For now, if you're riding, keep it sensible and respect pedestrians—because whatever rules come next will shape how we all share these spaces. The Simi Valley Acorn first reported this, and it's a good reminder that our local parks are for everyone, whether you're on two wheels or two feet. Stay tuned, and maybe drop a line to the district if you've got thoughts on how to handle the e-bike boom.
Simi ValleyGolf course scratched at Lost Canyons
Big news for Simi Valley, neighbors: the Lost Canyons project is getting a major redo, and the golf course is officially off the table. The Simi Valley City Council gave initial approval on Aug. 10 to a revised plan that keeps the 364 homes in the northern part of the development but swaps the long-promised fairways for hundreds of acres of preserved open space. It also shifts 178 homes away from the south side, which should ease some of the concerns about hillside density and fire risk that have simmered for years. This feels like a win for anyone who loves our rugged open spaces and worries about overdevelopment in the foothills. Losing the golf course might sting for some, but keeping that land natural is a trade-off that protects our viewsheds and local wildlife. The council's vote isn't the final word—there are more steps ahead—but it's a clear signal that Simi is listening to residents who want growth with a lighter touch. We'll keep an eye on what comes next and how this shapes the character of our northern edge.
Simi ValleyThreat of measles makes a return to Ventura County
Measles is back in Ventura County for the first time since 2017, and while this is just one confirmed case tied to international travel, it’s a reminder that the virus is only a plane ride away. The Ventura County Department of Public Health announced the case on Aug. 5, and they’re still piecing together how the person traveled here. For Simi Valley families, this hits close to home—our kids are back in school in a few weeks, and measles spreads like wildfire among unvaccinated groups. What can we do? Check your family’s vaccination records, especially if you’ve got little ones or travel abroad. The MMR vaccine is safe, effective, and the best shield we have. Local pediatricians and the county health clinic can help if you’re unsure. The Simi Valley Acorn has been following this story closely, so keep an eye on their updates. In the meantime, let’s look out for each other—if you’ve got a fever and a rash, call your doctor before walking into a waiting room. Stay healthy, neighbors.
Simi Valley58-home project advanced, tree removal debated
If you’ve driven along Cochran Street lately, you know that stretch of open land has been a quiet holdout between neighborhoods. That’s about to change. On July 22, the Simi Valley Planning Commission gave a unanimous green light to a 58-home development on nearly 20 acres — a decision that came with plenty of heartfelt debate, especially over the fate of five protected trees, including three native valley oaks. Neighbors packed the room, sharing concerns about privacy, traffic, and the proposed trail system, but in the end, the commission voted 5-0 to move forward. For those of us who call Simi Valley home, this feels like more than just another housing project. It’s a balancing act between growing our community and preserving the character that makes it special — those oaks have been standing longer than any of us. The Simi Valley Acorn covered every twist of the discussion, and it’s a reminder that decisions like these shape our daily lives for decades. Whether you’re excited about new neighbors or sad to see the open land go, this one’s worth watching as it heads to the city council.
Simi ValleyPark district’s Ed Abele retiring
After nearly a decade of steady leadership, Rancho Simi Recreation and Park District Director Ed Abele is calling it a career. Abele announced July 28 that he won’t seek another term, wrapping up a tenure that began with his appointment in 2017 from a pool of 15 applicants and was cemented by voters in 2018. He served as board chair in 2019 and again in 2023, helping guide the district through major park improvements and community programming that make Simi Valley such a great place to live. Abele’s retirement marks the end of an era for local parks. Whether it was advocating for new playgrounds, preserving open space, or just making sure the neighborhood fields were ready for weekend games, his work touched nearly every family in town. As the district prepares for a transition, residents can thank Abele for his dedication — and start paying attention to who steps up next. The Simi Valley Acorn first reported the news, and it’s a reminder that local service matters long after the headlines fade.
Have a News Tip?
Know about something happening in your community? We are always looking for local stories that matter to the 805.
Share a Story