CITY TO PURSUE FISHING AT 2 DOS VIENTOS PONDS.

Byline: Cecilia Chan Staff Writer

THOUSAND OAKS - The City Council returned after a monthlong hiatus and approved the possibility of recreational fishing at Dos Vientos Ranch and more transportation options for seniors.

The council on Tuesday agreed to discuss with California Fish and Game public fishing opportunities at two irrigation ponds located in the open space of the 2,350-home Dos Vientos development. The council voted 3-1, with Mayor Dennis Gillette, who was on vacation, absent.

``I understand the desire to have fishing. It's a fun activity,'' said Councilwoman Linda Parks, the sole dissenter. ``I ask that you make the motion broader to not only look at that specific area but other areas.''

Parks said she was concerned with establishing a recreational activity in what she called an ``environmentally sensitive'' location.

But Councilman Michael Markey said he didn't want to hamper his proposal by expanding it to other areas.

``Let us move forward with the proposal,'' said Councilman Andy Fox, adding that Parks' proposal called for looking at areas that don't necessarily have water and would possibly require a man-made pond.

The council also voted 4-0 to study ways of expanding transportation services for the city's growing senior population.

``It would be wise to study the issue sooner rather than later,'' said Councilman Dan Del Campo, who proposed the idea with Markey.

The councilmen said transportation was the No. 1 concern among all the candidates interviewed to fill seats on the city's Council on Aging.

In other action, the council shot down 3-1 Parks' proposal to look at buying a parcel of land zoned for residential development at the northeast corner of Erbes Road and Hillcrest Drive for open space.

Parks, who was concerned that the already busy intersection would have more traffic if the site were developed, proposed planting oak trees and other native vegetation on the site.

``Let's get an appraisal on it and buy it if we can afford it,'' she said.

Markey said that at most, four homes could be built at the site, where three parcels are for sale. Parks was interested in purchasing the front parcel.

Del Campo said he was concerned with the estimated $4,000 to $6,000 for an appraisal. He said the property would be difficult to sell and that the city didn't have the resources to landscape and maintain the property.

``I sense the property will remain vacant for quite some time to come,'' he said. ``It's better to do nothing than something at this time.''

Parks, however, argued now was the time to take action because the city was already moving forward with street improvements along Erbes Road.