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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 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 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 ValleyCity builds game plan for hockey, entertainment center
Simi Valley is skating toward something big. The City Council just greenlit a two-member Arena Ad Hoc Committee—Councilmembers Rocky Rhodes and Elaine Litster—to explore bringing a United States Hockey League franchise to town, along with a full sports and entertainment district. It’s early days, but the idea of a real arena in our backyard has folks buzzing. Imagine Friday night hockey games, concerts, and community events all within a few miles of home. This isn’t just about sports—it’s about what a venue like this could mean for local businesses, restaurants, and the overall energy of Simi Valley. The Simi Valley Acorn first reported the move, and it’s clear the council is serious about playing long game. We’ll be watching closely as this work team digs into feasibility, funding, and location. For now, it’s a promising puck drop for a city that’s ready for its own spotlight.
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.
Simi ValleyNew park district manager hired
Big news for Simi Valley: the Rancho Simi Recreation and Park District has a new leader, and he’s coming home. Steve Wright, a veteran parks and recreation executive and former Simi Valley resident who raised his daughters here, was selected as district manager after a nationwide search that drew over 100 applicants. Currently living in Houston, Texas, Wright is set to return to the community he once called home, bringing decades of experience and a deep personal connection to the area. This hire matters because our parks and rec district shapes so much of daily life—from local sports leagues and community events to trail maintenance and open space preservation. Wright’s local roots suggest he understands what makes Simi Valley special. The Simi Valley Acorn first reported the news, and it’s a story that feels like a homecoming for both Wright and the community. Welcome back, Steve!
Simi ValleySimi Valley’s history keeper dies at 96
Pat Havens was more than a historian—she was the heartbeat of Simi Valley’s memory. For over six decades, she collected the stories, faces, and moments that made our city feel like home. Whether she was archiving old photographs at the library or sharing tales of the valley’s ranching roots at community events, Pat made sure no one forgot where we came from. Her passing at 96 leaves a quiet hole in our town’s soul, but her work lives on in every exhibit, every local history talk, and every neighbor who now knows the name of the street they live on. This loss, first reported by the Simi Valley Acorn, reminds us that local history isn’t just in books—it’s in the people who care enough to save it. Pat Havens was one of those rare souls who turned a passion into a gift for the whole community. If you ever wandered through the Simi Valley Historical Society or paused at a plaque downtown, you felt her touch. Let’s honor her by keeping our stories alive, one conversation at a time.
Simi ValleyDOJ takes over fatal officer-involved shooting investigation
Simi Valley is in mourning this week after a fatal officer-involved shooting on Dusan Street, and the California Department of Justice has stepped in to lead the investigation. Under a state law requiring independent review when an unarmed civilian is killed by police, the California Police Shooting Investigation Team (CaPSIT) arrived on scene July 21. As reported by the Simi Valley Acorn, this move aims to ensure transparency and accountability for our community. For neighbors in the 805, this isn't just a headline — it's a moment that touches our shared sense of safety and trust. While details remain limited, the DOJ's involvement signals a serious, impartial look at what happened. Our thoughts go out to everyone affected, and we'll keep you updated as more information comes to light.
Simi ValleyOfficer fatally shoots man after chase through Simi Valley
A tragic incident unfolded Tuesday afternoon in Simi Valley when a police officer fatally shot a 37-year-old man following a vehicle pursuit. According to the Simi Valley Acorn, the man had allegedly told others he would “shoot it out” with police if they were called, leading to the chase and eventual deadly encounter. The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, with administrative details released later that evening. This is a heavy story for our community, one that raises questions about safety, mental health, and policing. As neighbors, we all hope for transparency and healing in the days ahead. Stay tuned to the Simi Valley Acorn for updates as more information becomes available.
Simi ValleyGoing for the gold . . . and the green
Remember when the world came to Ventura County for the 1984 Olympics? Lake Casitas was buzzing with canoeing and rowing events, drawing visitors from across the globe. That Olympic spirit might be returning in 2028, but this time, our region won't host any medal events. Still, don't count Simi Valley out. Local leaders are already brainstorming ways to attract tourists heading to Los Angeles for the Summer Games, hoping to turn those Olympic crowds into a local economic win. It's a smart play: with LA just over the hill, Simi Valley could become a prime base for visitors seeking quieter lodging and dining before heading to the big venues. The Simi Valley Acorn reports that cities in Acorn country are actively planning their pitches. Whether it's promoting our hiking trails, local eateries, or family-friendly atmosphere, there's a real opportunity to capture some of that Olympic gold — both in spirit and in green. It's a reminder that even without the spotlight, our community knows how to shine.
Simi ValleyCaltrans completes long-awaited fencing project on 118 bridge
A long-awaited safety improvement project has been completed on the Arroyo Simi Overhead Bridge along State Route 118 in Moorpark. Caltrans installed more than 6,400 linear feet of fencing on both sides of the half-mile bridge, a project aimed at preventing suicides. The work finished on July 15, bringing peace of mind to residents who have long advocated for this barrier. This project is a vital step for community safety, addressing a concern that has weighed on many in Simi Valley and Moorpark. The Simi Valley Acorn first reported the completion, highlighting how local advocacy helped push this through. It’s a reminder that infrastructure can serve a deeper purpose—protecting lives and supporting mental health awareness in our region.
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