Category: Local Community

As Congress struggles to pass a national budget, a similar budgeting nightmare is being played out in Ventura.

In Ventura’s case, a budget has been proposed and approved. The only problem? The budget is pure fiction, according to City Councilmember Neal Andrews.

In this fiscal year, Ventura will run a budget deficit of $1.6 million. The City has run budget deficits for the preceding 4 years ranging from a loss of half a million dollars to a loss of $11.4 million—cumulatively $21.6 million.

Joining me to explain the budget deficit is Bob McCord.

The depletion of $7.7 million from the City of Ventura’s Contingency Fund is one of the most under reported examples of “creative” accounting to mislead Ventura’s elected officials and citizens that has come to light. Listen as I lay out the size and scope of the problem on The Lyn Fairly and Fabulous Friends radio show.

Bill Watkins answers questions about his 2013 Economic Forecast for Ventura County. He elaborates on the non-existent job growth he foresees in 2013. He also expresses his concern over the weak economic recovery the economy has experienced, thus far.

Julia Brownley is the Democratic contender for the US House of Representatives from the newly formed 26th Congressional District that includes much of Ventura County—excluding Simi Valley. We discuss her platform and her campaign in the general election.

Bob Roper guest is a non-partisan contender for the Ventura County Board of Supervisors—1st District. We discuss his platform and his campaign for the general election on November 6, 2012.

Mike Stoker is the Republican candidate running for California State Senate. We discuss his bid for election in November.

Don McPherson received a big boost of confidence by being appointed Ventura Fire Chief after serving as Acting Chief since June. We discuss his vision for the fire department now that he’s at the helm.

Mike Tracy is Mayor of Ventura. We discuss the changes in City Hall following the resignation of City Manager, Rick Cole.

Senator Tony Strickland is the Republican contender for the US House of Representatives from the newly formed 26th Congressional District that includes much of Ventura County—excluding Simi Valley. We discuss his platform and his campaign.

Margie Cochrane is new to the community. She’s the newly installed Publisher and Chief Revenue Officer for the Ventura County Star. We discuss her plans for the newspaper and journalism in the 21st Century.