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HomeMy WebLinkAboutAGENDA REPORT 1997 0716 CC REG ITEM 09Ecrrr of WW"ARK. CALffORM qty Meeting .� %� —1992 ITEM 9 • AGENDA REPORT MOORPARK CITY COUNCIL TO: Honorable City Council FROM: Steven Hayes, Economic Development /Redevelopment Manager DATE: June 25, 1997 SUBJECT: Consider Adoption of Resolution No. 97- in Support of and appointment of City Representative to the Regional Defense Partnership - 21st Century •�1! The City of Moorpark has previously supported efforts to prevent closure of military installations at Point Mugu and Port Hueneme. In September 1994, the City appropriated approximately $6,000 to support the lobbyist /consultant efforts to keep these bases open. DISCUSSION The military is a significant component of the Ventura County economy, providing both civilian and military employment, and support for local business and industry. Port Hueneme and Point Mugu are ranked first and second as Ventura County's largest employers with 8,424 and 8,167 employees, respectively. In addition, the research, development, testing and evaluation (RDT /E) activities conducted at Point Mugu support business and industry involved in the areas of advanced technology. These activities provide a foundation for the development of "high tech" industry in Ventura County. The continued military presence at Point Mugu and Port Hueneme is by no means secure. Both military and civilian defense employment continues to decline as the military is downsized. In 1995, the Base Realignment and Closure Commission (BRAG) examined the potential closure of these facilities. The response within Ventura County through the BRAC Task Force successfully responded to this threat. The Department of Defense has now proposed "Vision 21" which will examine RDT /E facility operations and recommend the closure and downsizing of installations. This effort has once again illustrated the need for a countywide effort to address the possibility of downsizing and closure. The Regional Defense Partnership - 21st Century (RDP -21) has evolved from these prior efforts and is currently undettaking activities in support of Point Mugu and Port Hueneme. The RDP-21 has been established as a countywide organization to work in partnership with the community, private business and industry, governmental jurisdictions, the Economic Development Collaborative - Ventura County, and the military to protect and enhance the existing military facilities and resulting economic benefits. Specific efforts may include the attraction of technology-based industries and appropriate military operations, outsourcing of certain military functions, and the development of cooperative ventures with local business and industry. The RDP-21 is also involved in the creation of the Southwest Defense Alliance which seeks to retain and enhance the mission of RDT/E facilities operated by the Department of Defense throughout the Southwest United States. At this time, the City is requested to adopt the attached resolution in support of RDP-21 . The City Council is also requested by RDP-21 to designate the Mayor to serve as the City's representative to the RDP-21 , with the Mayor Pro Tem to serve as alternate. The City Council can designate any of its members to represent the City. FUNDING There is no request for funding at this time. RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends that the City Council adopt the attached resolution and consider appointment of City's representative to the RDP-21. 4