OXNARD : Ormond Beach Task Force Forms

A coalition of environmental groups, regulatory agencies and Oxnard city officials has formed a task force aimed at overseeing future management of the Ormond Beach wetlands, officials said.

The group met Wednesday for the first time to gauge interest in the topic and set goals, said Richard J. Maggio, Oxnard’s community development director. About 20 people attended the meeting at the Oxnard Library, he said.

Task force members hope to use the group as a clearinghouse for information on projects proposed for or near the wetlands, home to the endangered California least tern and other threatened species. The group also would keep regulatory agencies and environmental groups informed about upcoming issues regarding the area, Maggio said.

Developments proposed for the area include a massive waterfront residential complex, including a hotel and marina, and a 143-space recreational vehicle park in Port Hueneme. Environmentalists have opposed both projects, saying the area should be preserved as a habitat for endangered species there.

The next meeting of the task force is scheduled for Feb. 24.