Thousand Oaks Mayor Lauds Year of Growth

Despite hard times, Thousand Oaks has managed modest economic growth and lured new business to the area, Mayor Robert E. Lewis said in the annual state of the city address Wednesday.

Lewis, whose council seat is up for election on Nov. 3, took credit for some of the city’s economic accomplishments during the past year of budget cutbacks.

He named his efforts in creating a Blue-Ribbon Economic Development Committee to attract new companies and jobs and his work in creating open space in the city.

The $18.50-a-plate event is hosted annually by the Conejo Valley Chamber of Commerce and is usually delivered by the sitting mayor.

Lewis, a four-year council veteran, cited the expansion of Amgen’s biotechnology facilities and Sears department store, and the opening of an Illinois-based pharmaceutical company, Baxter Healthcare Corp., as major steps forward during his past year as mayor.

“Despite the current economic climate and state budget crisis, Thousand Oaks has been able to maintain quality services for our residents,” Lewis said.

Lewis’ address drew applause from the 150 business and community leaders in the audience. However, Lewis was criticized by City Council candidates who say the city’s financial position is overstated.

Candidate Paul Herzog, who attended the meeting, said the city has courted big firms at the expense of small businesses and has neglected the needs of the homeless and poorer residents. He also noted the absence of those who could not afford the luncheon.

“Notice who wasn’t here. Where are the citizens?” Herzog said after the address. “What about the average citizen?”

Council candidate Ken Bauer, who was not at the event, said Lewis overlooked the sacrifices residents have made because of budget cuts. Last year, the city closed two libraries on Fridays and laid off 35 workers.

“We’re fooling everyone to say we’re weathering the storm,” Bauer said. “We have cut back on a large number of city services. We’ve cut back the library.”

City residents can see the mayor’s 40-minute speech when it is broadcast on TOTV Channel 10 at noon and 8 p.m. on Wednesday and 18.