Neighborhood leaders push INCO to weigh in on Measure O renewal and budget priorities

At the Feb. 4 meeting of the Inter‑Neighborhood Council of Oxnard, several neighborhood chairs pressed the council to take an active role in shaping the future of Measure O, the local sales tax set to sunset in roughly two years.

Larry Stein, chairman of the Linwood Neighborhood, urged INCO to hold a dedicated discussion and develop recommendations for City Council. "Should we allow it to expire or should we have it reformatted?" Stein asked, arguing that Measure O revenues were intended for special capital projects but "after the first year, it was used to fund general‑fund positions." He asked INCO to consider whether citizens' priorities are being reflected in how Measure O funds have been spent.

Members agreed that INCO, as an advisory body, should have a role in the conversation. One member asked that the item be framed so neighborhood councils can decide what they want and then share those recommendations with the city. Chair Diana Belsey and other members said the request would be worked into a future agenda for extended discussion.

Related public comments earlier in the meeting also stressed budget priorities at the neighborhood level. Larry Stein recommended neighborhood chairs meet to compile parks and capital‑improvement priorities so those items can be presented during the city's budget process. Angela Whitecomb suggested the council study a parks‑only funding measure to address unfinished playgrounds and facilities.

The meeting produced no formal action on Measure O; members asked staff and the executive board to draft an agenda item so the subject can be discussed in detail at a future INCO meeting.