MOORPARK : Martens Appointed to Planning Panel

The Moorpark City Council has appointed Ted Martens, president of a local homeowners association, to the city Planning Commission.

Mayor Paul Lawrason said he chose Martens from a field of nine candidates because he lives in a housing project on the east side of town.

“Martens will represent a part of the city not now being represented on the commission,” Lawrason said.

Several projects that the commission will consider, including a 3,000-house subdivision, are being proposed for the east side, Lawrason said, adding that residents there have needed a voice during the planning process.

The council approved Martens’ nomination by a vote of 4 to 0, with Councilman Scott Montgomery abstaining. Montgomery, a candidate for the County Board of Supervisors, said he abstained because Martens is campaign treasurer for Simi Valley Councilwoman Barbara Williamson, who is also a supervisorial candidate.

Commissioner Steve Brodsky said he resigned to pursue a job outside California. Martens will serve the remainder of Brodsky’s term, which expires in November.