OJAI : Panel OKs Design of Multi-Use Structure Planned for Park

A design for a multipurpose building in Ojai’s Libby Park has won the endorsement of the city Planning Commission.

If approved by the City Council, the 882-square-foot building will provide administrative headquarters for various community and park services.

Twenty organizations will use the building regularly, which the Ojai Civic Assn. said will be donated to the city upon completion.

“There seems to be a number of groups that feel they need it,” said Bill Prince, director of planning and building.

But Planning Commission Chairman Dave Hirschberg and Commissioner Ralph Kirk opposed the project.

Hirschberg said he believes that the multipurpose building is not necessary and would provide only “visual pollution.”

Building proponents have indicated the need for a central facility to sell refreshments and tickets to various events, as well as to provide security for the money collected.

The City Council is expected to review the proposal at its next meeting on Tuesday, April 17.