Camarillo highlights Food Share donation, library laptop dispenser and Oxnard College’s 50th anniversary

The Camarillo City Council opened its Jan. 28 meeting with several presentations recognizing community services and educational partnerships.

Mayor David Tennyson and the council formally thanked Ventura County Food Share for distributing food to local residents and highlighted a previously approved $70,000 allocation for food assistance that covers Camarillo residents, CSU Channel Islands students and Somos Ranch residents. A Food Share representative said the agency serves more than 250,000 Ventura County residents annually and that "for every dollar donated to FoodShare, we can buy $5 worth of food." The council presented a ceremonial check.

Library staff announced a new 12-bay laptop dispenser on the library’s second floor that will allow patrons 18 and older with a valid Camarillo Public Library card to check out a laptop for up to three hours. Staff also said the library will convert an existing tech lab into a 15-person workspace with a smart board and modular furniture to support meetings and virtual work.

Oxnard College President Roberto Gonzalez presented highlights marking the college’s 50th anniversary, including recent recognitions and program growth. The college reported serving just over 12,000 students in 2024–25, with an enrollment described as about 72% Hispanic, and noted a $32 million financial aid disbursement in the prior year. Gonzalez also described partnerships with the Port of Hueneme and LiUNA for workforce programs and announced the college’s first bachelor’s degree program in dental hygiene.

Councilmembers thanked presenters, noted the regional value of partnerships and asked staff to continue outreach with local schools and stakeholders.