Agoura Hills appoints new planning commissioners

O’Meara Illece Buckley Weber and John O’Meara became the newest members of the Agoura Hills Planning Commission, replacing long-time commissioners William Koehler and Harry Schwarz, who were elected to the city council in November.

The planning commission is comprised of five volunteers, all residents of Agoura Hills.

The city received nine applications to fill the commission posts. Three commissioners were reappointed to serve additional two-year terms, including Phil Ramuno, Steve Rishoff and Curtis Zacuto. After reviewing the applications, each city council member recommends a candidate.

The planning commission advises the city council on land-use issues and ways to implement the city’s general plan.

Mayor Denis Weber ratified John O’Meara, a three-year Agoura Hills resident who applied for the post two years ago.

“John is an attorney (who) specializes in real estate matters and I have known him for several years,” Weber said. “He is a man that I have found to have exceptional knowledge in dealing with city planning issues, concern for his city, a shared vision of what needs to be done to screen projects, give necessary input to the process, as well as being comfortable in dealing with the myriad issues that face the commission on a regular basis.”

Buckley Weber O’Meara, 43, said the job of planning commissioner suits his expertise. He said as a real estate attorney, he handles many construction projects that have encountered problems. He’s represented property owners, builders and design professionals and also serves as a mediator with the Alternative Resolution Center in Los Angeles.

Planning commissioners hear and make decisions on applications for new commercial and residential developments, including conditional use permits, land subdivisions, and exceptions and variances from zoning ordinances. They also hear and make recommendations to the city council on proposed zoning ordinances and amendments

Buckley Weber, 48, said she wanted to work as planning commissioner to help the community.

“I learned over the years that one person can help to make a difference,” Buckley Weber said.

An attorney who previously worked for Gov. Richard Lamm of Colorado, Buckley Weber assisted with issues involving drunk driving, a personal issue since she was seriously injured in a drunken driving accident in which her friend was killed.

“We made a difference in Colorado laws and education,” Buckley Weber said. She added that her work with the Fountainwood Homeowners Association has “given me great insight to CCRs (covenants, conditions and restrictions) which are an important part of many of the developments in our community.

“I can assure the residents of our city that I will give each matter the careful attention it deserves. Furthermore, I view the Agoura Hills General Plan as the constitution for our city and will look to it carefully and consistently,” Buckley Weber said.

Councilmember Harry Schwarz appointed Buckley Weber, whom he’s known for 10 years.

“She was a (Fountainwood Homeowner’s Association) board member for several years, and I found her to be incredibly insightful into many issues that face our neighborhood and the city,” Schwarz said. “She has been involved in many community activities over the years . . . I like her thought process.”

Schwarz added that Buckley Weber is detail-oriented, analytical and has “vision.”

As for his vision for Agoura Hills, O’Meara cites Agoura Village as a top priority.

“Agoura Village is an extraordinarily important project and it could very well define the city,” O’Meara said.

The city’s near build-out of residential units is also a prime concern for O’Meara. He added he wants to ensure there is sufficient low-to-moderate housing and senior housing, and the slow growth character of the city is maintained.

Buckley Weber agrees with O’Meara that Agoura Village is one of the biggest issues facing the city, but she added the land that will ultimately be developed along the 101 corridor is a concern.

“Fortunately or unfortunately, the land along the 101 corridor will be developed,” she said. “The size, design and landscaping must be carefully planned. Our city deserves it.

“It is a very exciting time for Agoura Hills and I’m honored to be part of the effort,” said Buckley-Weber.

“I think that the current city council and planning commission members are qualified and dedicated people, all with a strong vision for the city,” O’Meara said. “I think that the city is in very good hands. I’m honored to be a part of it.”