The Legislative Lens Podcast with Host: Rob Leatherwood

What does it really take to build a strong, resilient economy in Ventura County—and what’s holding us back? In this episode, we’re joined by Estelle Bussa , Deputy Executive Officer for Economic Vitality and Service Excellence for the County of Ventura, for a wide-ranging conversation about where our regional economy stands today and where it needs to go next. Estelle breaks down how the County su...

In this thought-provoking episode of Legislative Lens , host Rob Leatherwood sits down with Dawn Dyer, CEO of Dyer-Sheehan Group and founder of Housing Trust Fund Ventura County, to tackle one of the region’s most pressing challenges: housing. From breaking down how rents are calculated in multifamily housing (in plain English) to sharing the story behind the creation of HTFVC, Dawn offers both ex...

This edition of the Legislative Lens podcast features Dominic Kardum, Senior Deputy District Attorney with the Ventura County DA's Real Estate Fraud Unit, and Jorge DeLeon, Chairman of the Real Estate Fraud Advisory Team (REFAT), as they delve into real estate fraud and how consumers can protect themselves . The episode traces REFAT's inception in the early 2000s from the need to address...

 **Andy Ortega's Background & Personal Story**  *   Andy's 37-year career with the Ventura County Fire Department, following in his father's footsteps.     *   He retired in 2017 as Assistant Chief of Emergency Operations/Services.     *   His retirement bliss was interrupted by the **Thomas Fire** on December 4th, 2017, which burned down his home.     *   This personal trauma s...

In the eighth episode, host Rob Leatherwood visits with James Mason, Community and Economic Development Director, and Caesar Hernandez, Management Analyst for the City of Santa Paula. Together, they offer valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities shaping this vibrant community.  Santa Paula is undergoing a transformation, shedding negative stereotypes through streamlined development...

In the seventh episode, host Rob Leatherwood sits down with Louise Lampara, Executive Director of the Ventura County Coalition of Labor, Agriculture, and Business (CoLAB). Louise shares her journey in public service, where she became an expert in land-use policy, agriculture, and water management. The conversation delves into the complexities of homeownership and legislative challenges in Ventura...

In the sixth episode, host Rob Leatherwood and special guest Jeffrey Lambert Ventura’s Community Development Director, share insights into the housing challenges and opportunities in Ventura County. From post-disaster rebuilding to long-term affordable housing strategies, Jeff discusses how policies and community initiatives are shaping the region’s housing future.  Jeff reflects on his experience...

In Episode 5, host Rob Leatherwood and special guest Linda Braunschweiger explore affordable housing in Ventura County. Learn about the Housing Trust Fund and Housing Land Trust Ventura County, and their crucial roles. We discuss the legal definition of affordable housing, funding challenges, costs, and innovative living models. Discover shifting public opinions, the impact of California’s budget...

In the fourth episode, host Rob Leatherwood and special guest Ventura City Councilmember Doug Halter discuss a life of service to the City of Ventura and how housing policy has changed over the years. They discuss the unique character of Ventura, current trends, and their effects on the quality of life for Ventura residents. Doug describes his vision for housing in Ventura and a path to make that...

In the third episode, host Rob Leatherwood and special guest Ventura Chamber of Commerce CEO Stephanie Caldwell discuss the challenges the housing crisis in Ventura County creates for the business community and broader Ventura County economy. They also dive into the deep end on water issues in the City of Ventura, growing the downtown district and the path forward for vibrant and sustainable econo...

In the second episode, host Rob Leatherwood and special guest Ventura County Supervisor Matt LaVere discuss the recently proposed Ventura County affordable housing bond. They discuss the need for affordable housing in VC in addition to a more reliable source of funding. They also discuss regulatory and labor challenges in VC that further complicate developing housing projects as well as REALTORS®...

In the inaugural episode of the Legislative Lens Podcast, host Rob Leatherwood and special guest Sanjay Wagle, Senior VP of Government Affairs at the California Association of REALTORS®, discuss critical legislative topics that directly impact California's housing market. They delve into issues such as Proposition One addressing mental health and homelessness, the implications of the Costa-Ha...