THOUSAND OAKS : Planning Panel Is Excluded in Reviews

Over the objections of one of its members, the Thousand Oaks City Council on Tuesday voted to exclude the Planning Commission from reviewing projects that the city is building.

The council voted 3 to 1 to amend a city ordinance, thus clarifying an existing policy. Councilwoman Jaime Zukowski cast the dissenting vote, and Councilwoman Elois Zeanah was absent.

In voicing her opposition, Zukowski argued that the city should adhere to the same project review process as private developers.

Planning Commissioner Irving Wasserman also urged the council not to approve the amendment, saying it would only add to the perception that there is a double standard when it comes to city projects.

But Mayor Alex Fiore and Councilman Frank Schillo said that development standards are best determined by the City Council because it is solely responsible for establishing the city’s budget as well as its long-term goals.

“I see nothing wrong with the council having the final decision on city facilities,” Fiore said, adding that this would speed up the review process and help keep projects on schedule.

The council did agree, however, to include the Planning Commission on study sessions involving future city projects.

Before Tuesday night’s meeting, planning commissioners Marilyn Carpenter and Linda Parks said that no project should be exempt from scrutiny by the commission.