Q&A with Capt. Brown, LMG - Catalina Heights, Camarillo, Aug 14, 2024:
 
Q1: Is it possible to get another food option AT THE Port Hueneme NEX?
A1: NEX put issued vendor request for proposals in July 2024 with a goal to add additional vendor in 4 to 6 months. In the meantime, the NEX has on boarded additional food trucks. Food options are also available at the 19^th Hole, Subway, Bowling Alley Kingpin Food and Beverage, Bard Mansion (Thursday) and Galley Special Meal.
 
Q2: Is it possible to keep 19th Hole open on Saturdays for a weekend food option on PH base?
A2: Our MWR team is assessing the opportunity to expand hours at the 19th Hole, to include the weekends. The Bowling Alley Kingpin Food and Beverage is open on Saturday 11am-10pm and Sunday 11am-8pm, with a full menu as well.
 
Q3: We cannot schedule kids swimming lessons available on PH base for Sept and Oct with MWR or the aquatic center.
A3: MWR is keeping a list of those interested in lessons at both pools. The plan is to start on Sat’s, now that we have a few Water Safety Instructors back on our staff team.
 
Q4: What are the rules for the Hueneme base with parking moving trailers such as U-Pack trailers on road (without blocking driveways, other homes parking)?
A4: A notice for moving vehicles would only be issued if they exceed 48 hours. For extensions please work with the LMH or our Family Housing Office.
 
Q5: Why is maintenance now only available for maintenance calls before 5pm for non-emergent tickets?
A5: Any maintenance issues outside of normal business hours would need to be urgent or an emergency to require an on-call technician. To reach the call center after hours you can call 1-888-578-4141 24/7.
 
Q6: Why is housing ticketing cars parked in outside parking spot for more than a few days when a lot of our residences are deployable?
A6: Curb-Street parking is not authorized for extended parking use and POV must be moved regularly. Members who are deployed are responsible for their POV and should make arrangements to store in designated extended parking lots, garages, carports, etc.
 
Q7: Will bike lanes at Point Mugu be re-painted to improve visibility? Will bike lanes be swept where they are impassible? Will more bike lanes be added?
A7: NBVC is assessing a plan to re-paint bike lanes and traffic lines as applicable. Due to constrained resources, regular sweeping is limited to the airfield, with other roadway sweeping performed after storms or other significant weather events.
 
Q8: At Port Hueneme there is a trench in the road on 35th Avenue that needs to get filled. The trench causes problems with the flow of traffic and is getting deeper as people drive over it. I’ve submitted tickets and complaints with no resolution. It’s especially hazardous when it rains.
A8: Public Works is tracking this issue. The trench originated as part of a water line upgrade in the area, and we have taken measures to fill the trench in and reduce the speed along the roadway.  The specific area in question is currently waiting for restoration to be completed when resources allow.
 
Q9: Please find a solution for safe pedestrian access to Victoria Rd Gate. It’s very dangerous for pedestrians to access this gate via walking, biking, etc. Additionally, the gate is too far away from the port for visiting Sailors and contractors who want to leave the base but do not have access to transportation.
A9: While Victoria Gate is our newest and most secure access point, we understand improvements need to be made for pedestrian access and are developing an access plan for pedestrian transit. In addition, we are working to implement a ride share program for NBVC that will enable vetted drivers access to the base for the purpose of dropping off and picking up personnel.
 
 
Q10: Will there be a gap in pool hours between summer and winter schedules?
A11:  The “Winter” Hours usually start after Labor Day weekend. While the weather here remains pretty nice through October, a lot of the MWR lifeguards are seasonal hires, and only in town during the summer. The MWR pools at PH and PM will be open in October; PH 1030-1330 & 1530-1830 Mon-Fri, Sat 0900-1200; PM 0600-0900 & 1030-1330 Mon-Fri. We will look at adding more time, including Saturdays at PM, through October but it will depend on staffing.
 
Q12: What is the ride share program policy at NBVC? Can Ubers access the base?
A12: A new rideshare program is currently being vetted and waiting for approval. This program will be announced to all internal base personnel and posted to our social media channels. The new program will insure that transportation service vehicles or rideshare program operators can meet all requirements for DBIDS credentials and base access.
 
Q12: Why are CDC and other base employees using parking that is intended or designated for residents?
A12: Residents are provided assigned parking, typically accommodating up to 4 vehicles and consisting of garage and driveway space. Most street parking is first come first serve unless otherwise marked by signs. Most reserve street signs are to accommodate residents who are not assigned parking spaces. Public Works is currently assessing options to add additional street parking and reviewing street signs for consistency.

Q&A with Capt. Kimnach, Point Mugu Theater, May 15, 2024:

Q1:  Why do we restrict certain breed dogs when those dogs are usually the best-behaved dogs on the base? Why can't we contain the dogs that get out and run around base?
A1: Breed restrictions are implemented based on propensity for aggression by both NBVC and LMH. If animals are running loose, it should be reported to the district office.  Residents who do not comply with the pet addendum within the lease can potentially lose their pet privileges. This cannot be enforced if the office is not notified of each occurrence. 

Q2: I am deathly allergic to cats, why do we permit everyone's cats to run around without tags? What can be done about people who abandon cats when they PCS?
A2: We do not permit any pets to run around with or without tags. Please contact the office and notify the manager if you observe loose pets. Military police or animal control may impound any animal(s) that are found or reported running loose, left chained, or left unsupervised outside of a fenced area.
 
Q3: Can we have housing clean the gutters at least once a year?
A3: We have cleaned 10 buildings at Bruns (2 story) as of April 2024. Our porters clean at least 5 buildings (single story) per week. Residents can also call the District Office and enter a service request to get their gutters cleaned. 
 
Q4: Why do some service members jump the line for Camarillo housing when I’ve been waiting for months?
A4: There are many factors and different priorities for the waitlist; service member's detachment date, being able to accept the home within 30 days, etc.  The easiest way to resolve an issue with an application would be to contact the Navy Housing Service Center at 805-982-4321.We can review the application and discuss the concern. 
 
Q5: Why can’t we spray for spiders/bugs every other month?
A5: We currently offer general pest control services via service request on Tuesdays and Thursdays. For miscellaneous bugs and spiders, we currently spray the entire community bi-yearly, one time during the spring and summer months. To alleviate rodents, we have set up bait boxes throughout our community and common areas which are serviced monthly to mitigate any rodent problems.  To add on, we also currently do a bi-yearly application to all exterior foundation of homes to mitigate any ant problems.
 
Q6: Why can’t we spray for spiders/bugs every other month?
A6: Military installations (and all contracted pest service providers, PSP) are required to follow Integrated Pest Management protocols when controlling pests on base. These protocols create a safe and effective treatment for targeted pests. The key is to only apply the necessary treatment to a specific target pest that has exceeded the threshold. Thresholds determine when and what type of action needs to take place. The action initially may be to remove what attracts the pest and plug the point of entry (ex: clean counter tops to keep ants from being attracted into a kitchen, and caulk around the window where they were coming in). Then follow up to determine if that protocol worked. If not, go to the next step, the least toxic pesticide. Continue to check and elevate the treatment until the pest problem has been resolved.

Q7: How does the Mosquito season look this year?
A7: There is more standing fresh water than normal this late in the season. Fresh water breeds a fresh water mosquito that comes out in the evening and is more probable to carry disease. People should be aware of pools of fresh water around their homes, maybe in a vacant yard nearby, and report that to the housing authority.

Q8: How can we get a more diverse choice of quality internet providers? We are forced to use a provider whose services are less than 1% of the country.
A8: The fiber infrastructure including the cost to build and maintain in a rural area is owned by the provider. There are other options for Satellite Internet service.

Q9: Can we work on preventing speeders on base?
A9: Force protection continues to monitor known and random areas while establishing additional patrols. Please continue to report speeding violations and when possible.

Q&A with Capt. Kimnach, Needham Theater, Port Hueneme, Feb. 14, 2024:
 
Q1: When will Victoria Gate, Port Hueneme reopen?
A1: We are continuing to work diligently towards completion of the construction work at Victoria Gate.  In order to ensure we deliver a long lasting, fully ATFP-compliant gate with a separate commercial truck lane that will provide significant traffic flow, we’ve been thoroughly testing the work.  As a result, there are crucial phases still in progress.  We appreciate your patience as we work to provide a durable gate to minimize future disruptions. 
 
Q1: When will the road to Medical onboard Port Hueneme be improved?
A2: We appreciate your feedback and acknowledge there are various areas across NBVC in need of improvements, including some issues that have been exacerbated by recent weather events.  We are working hard to ensure these issues are being addressed with our constrained resources.  Progress is being made daily across NBVC, and we will address the road as we are able.
 
Q3: Can we offer more Wi-Fi options on the base and buildings?
A3: Wi-Fi is provided through our NEX vendor and offered for free in many buildings across the installation. The fiber infrastructure across the installation is owned by the provider/carrier and driven by demand.
 
Q4: What is the future of the Mugu Beach Rd after Signiant storm damage?
A4: The recent storm surge caused significant damage to the road restricting safe East bound passage to RV, camping, and cabin areas.  As we continue to assess the full extent of the damage, we are carefully considering potential restoration costs against the probability of future destructive weather events to ensure we make environmentally sound investments in the beach area.  
 
Q5: Why is there no tax preparation services on base?
A5: Tax services transitioned to online sources. Please visit Military One Source for tax services free to service members.
 
Q6: Can we use contract service for child care, house cleaning, and dog walking?
A6: Residents are responsible for home services, to include agreements made with outside agencies. However, child care providers, to include babysitters, must be certified and comply with federal and state regulations to ensure the safety of the child. Resident may provide in-home childcare through participation in the Child Development Homes program.  Resident must be certified through the Navy sponsored Child Development Program if childcare is conducted in the premises for more than 10 cumulative hours per week. DoD-approved child care solutions can be found at militarychildcare.com.
 
Q7: There are multiple issues with parking on 34th Street.
Q7: Force Protection and Public Works is currently conducting surveys to provide parking recommendations to the commanding officer.

Q&A with Capt. Kimnach, Point Mugu Theater, Nov.15. 2023:

Q1: Can we please change the Point Mugu weekend base gym hours from 8am to 3pm (Sat & Sunday) to 10am to 5pm?
A1: The current schedule is based on logistical facility challenges, which is always changing and under review. However, MWR is working on a waiver request to include additional unmanned hours which may answer this request.
 
Q2: Why is our BAH is going to pay for playgrounds, splash pads, and children’s events when we don't have kids? I don't feel like I should be paying for child services when I have no children. 
A2: Children’s amenities help to foster and support healthy and safe communities. A fraction of the BAH is allocated to all PPV amenities including pools, fitness centers, common areas, picnic areas, and playgrounds for all residents to enjoy.
 
Q3: Can we please open the Point Mugu base theater to show movies on weekends?
A3: Unfortunately, the PM Theater has older equipment and does not support many movies we showcase at Needham Theater. Additionally, past weekend attendance has been too low for continued operation and staffing. Due to these factors, we offer movie viewing options at SurfNet Recreation Center.
 
Q4: I’m curious as to why our electricity, water, and internet get turned off so frequently? It seems to happen every month at least once or twice.
A4:  Thank you for your question, and I apologize for the disruptions and inconveniences caused by utility outages.  We have aging utility systems that have met our needs for many years but require continued modernization and replacement to provide better reliability.  These aging systems also require significant planned maintenance to prevent widespread failures.  We understand these outages are disruptive and work hard to minimize that impact.  When we schedule maintenance or replacement that requires an outage, we look for opportunities to reduce the affected area, and combine several jobs where possible to minimize future outages.  Additionally, we manage cases where outages are forced upon us, such as when Southern California Edison performs maintenance and repairs outside the fence line. During these outages we work diligently to line up our preventative maintenance actions to minimize the impact as much as possible. Primarily our outages are planned to replace the aging infrastructure (as mentioned), or to upgrade and modernize the grid. Notifications are sent to those affected, including residents. Liberty Military Housing (LMH) sends additional messages through their “Red Flag Email” system to the primary email on file. The email notification is sent from lmhcallcenter@livelmh.com. If you would like to update the email that these messages are sent to, please contact the LMH office in your community. Our goal is to minimize outages and improve the reliability of our infrastructure.  When outages are necessary, we strive to minimize the impacts of an outage, while completing critical work and maintenance in support of the Navy mission.

Q5: I would like to know if there are any updates for the middle school zoning for Point Mugu Base middle schoolers to attend the Pleasant Valley School District next fall 2024/2025?
A5: The school district does not currently have a plan to change zoning for the middle schools; the High School District did rezone but they are a separate district.
 
Q6: Is there a new CYP director yet?
A6: CYP does have a couple vacancies; however, all CYP Director positions have been filled since Nov 2022. Currently the Youth Sports and Fitness Coordinator position is vacant and in the process of being recruited.

Q7: I am disappointed about this year’s flag football and cheerleading season. I believe it was canceled due to lack of advertising and miscommunication to the military family community. Beyond this, I am thankful for the wonderful past season that Coach David offered. Can you provide updates about this topic?
A7: Flag Football and Cheerleader season was canceled due to low enrollment, even after an extended registration period. We are currently recruiting for the coordinator position to continue improving the YSF offerings. David has moved on to another organization on base, but he continues to assist in a reduced role to continue communication while we recruit.

Q8: Will there be another full season of basketball, soccer, and baseball in the springtime? We loved this option because it was a fun, healthy learning experience and the convenience of having it on base was wonderful.
A8: CYP is in the process of recruiting this position, with the hope of starting seasons as soon as possible.

Q9: On the topic of shuttle services, can the city local buses offer transportation from Point Mugu base to out in town? Even for 1 or 2 days a week? It would help with gas cost.
Q10: How can we get a more diverse choice of quality internet providers? We are forced to use a provider whose services are less than 1% of the country.
A10: The fiber infrastructure including the cost to build and maintain in a rural area is owned by the provider. There are other options for Satellite Internet service.
 
Q11: The internet provider should stop charging an installation fee as all the homes here are equipped with 1-service and all service ready. It takes little effort or experience to complete a self-installation.
A11: On base, as on the economy, the customer is responsible for working with the provider(s). In most cases the provider can waive the installation fee for self-installs

Q12:  What are the standards of property landscape when property is assigned?
A12: Landscaping (backyard and front yard) is part of our make ready process. Residents have the option to submit a work order request for landscape evaluation.
 
Q13:  What can we do about the ground gopher problems?
Q14:  Can we please make the Point Mugu Pool heated? And, opened for at least one day on the weekends?
A14: During the winter hours we have less lifeguards on staff. We are recruiting additional staff with the goal of offering weekend hours. During the summer hours we plan to offer the weekend pool hours.
 
Q15: Can we please change the policy to extend the hours allowed for civilian, retired, and dependent use of the Point Mugu Recreation Center? Why are we asked to leave if no one is there?
A15: The Point Mugu Recreation Center is following Navy and CNIC requirements which split all-hands vs junior enlisted time to allow a secure space where service members can attend without concern of fraternization and issues of rank, status, etc.

Q&A with Capt. Kimnach, Needham Theater, Port Hueneme, Aug 16. 2023:

Q1: At a previous Town Hall there was mention of possible transportation from Point Mugu to Adolfo Camarillo High School. Is this something that could possibly happen? Or could a connection to a public bus system be established since the closest bus stop is many miles away?
A1: Oxnard Union High School District approved the new zones for school Year 2023-2024 and there will be transportation provided. [Copies of the high schools bus schedules handed out at Town Hall]. For School Year 2023-2024, Catalina Heights will have transportation provided for Adolfo Camarillo High School and Rio Mesa High School Point Mugu will have transportation provided for Adolfo Camarillo High School and Channel Islands High School, Ocean View Jr High and Laguna Vista STEAM Academy. Students ridding the school Bus will not need their dependent IDs to enter the installation since we provide passes for school bus drivers. For requests or issues regarding transportation, parents must address that directly with their school districts or school boards. They can contract our SLO, Edith Contreras, if they would like her to provide them with the appropriate contact information for their specific school district.
 
Q2: I’ve complained numerous times about a family that has been sponsoring non-military people on base access for a few months. I’m concerned about the safety of our children and people being on base without permission.
A2: The people in question had permission to be on base. They are child care workers sponsored by military members caring for military children during the summer break. It was verified that the people in question had 30-day base access registration.
 
Q3: we have concerns about the new traffic pattern for Patterson Gate. We feel that it could be creating congestion and minor accidents, which I have been in one. Shouldn’t the signage change to indicate the left hand lane may proceed straight and the right hand lane may only travel straight onto base?  Or should NBVC police inbound traffic to ensure the workforce obeys the current signage? The city has direction markers indicating that you can turn right from the right lane or proceed straight from the right lane.
A3: The city has direction markers indicating that you can turn right from the right lane or proceed straight from the right lane.  From the left lane you can only turn left, which they have posted signage for this. We take all questions about this matter seriously and we are working with city to access the complaint and address any safety concerns.
 
Q4: Since Victoria gate has been closed, I haven't been able to leave out of the Paterson gate after work due to traffic congestion. It is taking too long for vehicles to exit; some are getting turned away. Can you leave the outbound gate open longer?
A4: We have addressed the traffic light with the city, and they have increased the time which will allow more vehicles to exit. We have seen that this has provided a dramatic decrease in outbound traffic. Unfortunately we do not have the manpower to maintain sentries past their shift during non-emergencies. Please work with your command to have a plan when exiting gates.
 
Q5: When will abandoned vehicles or vehicles not permitted in Catalina Heights be removed/towed?
A5: LMH is discussing terms, signage, hours, etc. with a towing company from Ventura. Once the agreement is signed, this situation will improve.
 
Q6: The tables/chairs located in the center area of the Subway, Gym, & NEX on Mugu are constantly being covered in trash & debris from the trees.
A6: Our MWR team is working with our PW FMS to review and cover any possible gaps in maintenance, to include this shared space. Any gaps identified will be added to agreements. In the short term, we are submitting work request to address the immediate concerns and document anything outside of the scope of work for maintenance contractors.

Q7: Can the residents or the base commands petition for a more intensive mosquito control then we’ve had in the past?
A7:  Ms. Valerie Vartanian, the Natural Resource Manager and Integrated Pest Management Coordinator provided a detailed brief about our robust Mosquito Abatement Program during the May Town Hall. This program provides an aggressive, yet safe, control of mosquitos in Point Mugu neighborhoods. This program even utilizes drone technology to reach areas not accessible due to wet-land conditions and restrictions. However, because Point Mugu has the largest natural wet-land preserves in California, there will always be mosquitos. As presented during the May Town Hall, the best defense in and around homes is to eliminate standing water sources, to include plant pots and kitchens. If there is a larger problem, LMH can submit a Maximo work order to target specific areas.

 
Town Hall, Catalina Heights Youth Center, Camarillo, May 17:
No Questions Submitted
 

Town Hall, FFSC, Point Mugu, Feb 15:
No Question Submitted


Q&A with Capt. Kimnach, Needham Theater, Port Hueneme, Nov. 2022:

Q1: There are rumors that Midway estates will be rented to civilians. Is this true?
A1: No. We have a working group discussing and exploring a few possible courses of action (COAs) for the Midway Estates. COAs include using some as child care space, UH space, commercial partner, PPV/LMH, NGIS and Navy Lodge, Recreational Lodging, etc. 

Q2: Would it be possible to request that housing keep the backyards of the unoccupied homes maintained at an acceptable level?
A2: Lincoln Military Housing (LMH) is conducting weekly check-ins on unoccupied homes in attempt to find issues such as this. Should their inspections not address this issue please inform LMH of the location; keeping in mind some areas can grow rapidly. 
    
Q3: Will Liberty be implementing the RECP at the beginning of next year or will they be giving people ample notice (like a few months’ notice) that it will restart?
A3: Notice will be given by LMH prior to implementation. Once RECP is reinstated, upon request with LMH, they can do an electric use audit.

Q4: Will more units receive air conditioning?
A4: There are renovated homes with A/C that we will be back online within the next 30 days. There are about 60-70 homes between Mugu and Hueneme, and if you are interested in transferring to one of these homes you can work through that process with LMH. The resident has to qualify for the home, be in good standing, and a review of the condition of the home they are currently in will be done by LMH prior to approval of a transfer.      

Q5: Does liberty military housing plan to uniform the outside look of the housing units in Bruns Park? It appears that they start projects and don’t finish for every house in the community.
A5: LMH is completing this work in phases. They have budgeted each year to complete the jobs on the homes that need it most first; the plan is to get them all done. 

Q6: We feel like we have too many coyotes, are we going to do something about that?
A6: As drought continues in California, coyotes are seen more regularly in various communities during the day foraging to try to find resources.  Recent observations may be of our normal population, just seen out during the day more frequently as they are trying to find food resources. The Navy is currently putting together a contract to trap any coyotes that become a threat to human safety.  Coyote conflicts with people are extremely rare and NBVC has not ever had a negative human-coyote interaction.  The best thing residents can do is to not leave pet food outdoors and keep your pets indoors at night.  Ventura County Animal Control also recommends hazing (yelling, throwing rocks, chasing) coyotes, so they do not get too comfortable around people.  

Q7: What is there to do for lifestyle on Point Mugu?
A7: The SurfNet at Point Mugu, Bldg. 20, is open Mon-Sun 11am-8pm; Holidays 11am-5pm. The SurfNet has high-speed internet, gaming systems and games, TV lounge, ping pong, billiards, and a small movie theater with a movie library to choose from. We are also in the design phase for Bldg. 20 to expand the services available; the design includes changing the Galley into food service for both military and civilians, adding a bar, adding a small bowling alley, and adding recreation space and classrooms; currently at 70% design phase. In addition to the project planning going on at Bldg. 20, Bldg. 74 near Mugu Family Beach is open Mon-Sun 10am-6pm and has recreation space in the facility as well as access to gear rental for use on and off installation, including Stand Up Paddle Boards, Kayaks, Bikes, grills, etc. If you would like to be included on our email distro list to receive information on all of the other Fitness events, Recreation events, Trips, Tours, and other special events send an email our Marketing Director.    

Q8: Can we work on preventing speeders on base?
A8: Force protection continues to monitor known and random areas while establishing additional patrols. Please continue to report speeding violations and when possible.