Supports new high school

On March 13, the fate of one of the most debated projects in the history of Camarillo, the construction of a new high school, will be determined by the City Council. At that meeting the city will decide to either accept or reject the alternative site analysis for the new campus, which was collaboratively developed by the high school district, city staff and the Ventura Local Agency Formation Commission. The study strongly recommends annexation and construction on the 77 acres purchased near the library.

The alternative site analysis was exceptionally thorough, examining every parcel of land within Camarillo, more than 90 potential locations. At the recommendation of the city, the analysis even considered land where three active schools, the Boys & Girls Club and Pleasant Valley School District offices currently stand. All of the potential sites within the city, except the one near the library, were eliminated for noncompliance with school board policies or state standards for school construction.

We should be clear regarding the choice that the City Council faces. Because every potential site in Camarillo was analyzed and discounted for significant deficiencies and risks, we know that there are no alternate sites in Camarillo that could support the high school’s construction.

If the 77 acres near the library are rejected, then the city is essentially stating that the needed new high school for Camarillo children will have to be built outside the city and in Oxnard. If the council votes no, a beautiful new Camarillo campus and 700-seat performing arts center is desperately needed and will never come to be.

Join me in urging the City Council to send a strong statement to the county and the state that we want our new high school to be built in Camarillo without delay.

Richard Busse
Camarillo