2025 Summer-Insider

THE VOICE OF THE COMMUNITY

In this Insider: Community Event Reviews Town Hall - State of the Canyon Town Hall - Fire Safety Bell Canyon Financial Summary Bell Canyon CERT Community Center Progress

Volume 02-02

Bell Canyon BELL CANYON BOARD OF DIRECTORS Eric Dersom Kevin Keegan Mike Klein Yossi Kviatkovsky Bill Napier Melissa Raff Steve Rasnick Barry Schehr Sean Wagmeister

BELL CANYON COMMUNITY CENTER (BCCC) Norton Alderson Steve Bellamy Kevin Keegan Sean Wagmeister

BELL CANYON EQUESTRIAN CENTER (BCEC) Cathy Balin Eric Dersom Eric Mann Jodie Resnick

BELL CANYON COMMUNITY SERVICES DISTRICT

(BCCSD)

Norton Alderson Julie De St Jean Judy Lantz Shelby Linka Peter Machuga

ARCHITECTURAL COMMITTEE (AC) Richard Ibrahim Dave Osborn Scott Sand

AC CONSULTANT Chiedu Chijindu

AC ENGINEER Felix Levitas

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INTERIM GENERAL MANAGERS Karen Thompson - Keystone Mary Ann Plescia - Keysone

ASSISTANT GENERAL MANAGER AC COORDINATOR Cindy Escobar

SENIOR ACCOUNTANT Charina Aliling

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Jenni Mandelblatt

FRONT OFFICE RECEPTIONIST Cherie Calabro

ACCESS CONTROL SUPERVISOR Erman Quitalig

ACCESS CONTROL OFFICERS Edgar Balberan Marlin Burt Julian Cantey Tyrisha Edwards Ernesto Garcia Ruth Garcia Oscar Marquina Anthony Portillo Tiffany Rangel Rocha Alejandra Sciortino Alec Skillman Ador Venturanza Alec Worthen

FACILITIES MANAGER COMPLIANCE MANAGER Travis Simpson

FACILITIES STAFF

Luis Gamboa Ricardo Garcia Gonzalez Carlos Martinez

Waterfall Trail Buckskin Area Photo By: Alderson

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Inside 9

PRESIDENT UPDATE

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Quarterly update of the renovation progress for the community’s beloved BCCC facility.

A note from Kevin and Mike!

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BELL CANYON EGGSTRAVAGANZA!

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TOWN HALL IMPORTANT MEETINGS

BCA FINANCIAL OVERVIEW The latest financial summary from your Treasurer!

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LOCAL RESOURCES Here is a gowning list of local places to stay and also local eating locations.

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A LOOK BACK Each issue we feature a look back at the history of Bell Canyon.

State of the Canyon, page 22 Fire Safety, page 27

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PRIOR INSIDER ISSUES Missed an issue or three? Take a look and see what you missed.

If you missed it this year, check out the annual event at Bell Creek Park for kids and families of all ages.

There were two important Town Hall meetings to discuss important issues in the community. Slides and Pictures.

BELL CANYON COMMUNITY CENTER

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CONTRIBUTORS Thank you for contributing to this Summer issue!

BELL CANYON CERT What is CERT, and how you can get involved?

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Eggstravaganza Bell Creek Park Photo By: Alderson

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Blooming Median Entry Road Photo By: Alderson

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Dear Friends and Neighbors, As we approach the July 4th holiday, we wish everyone a safe and fun-filled celebration of our nation’s independence. A few friendly reminders: No Fireworks in Bell Canyon, and sign in guests before the holiday to limit their entry time through the guard gate.

It is worth noting that July 1 is the beginning of Bell Canyon’s new fiscal year, after one of progress and renewal, but not without turmoil. While the community has been saturated with election messages, on the good news front, all election signs should be down for the July 4th holiday!

Before we turn the page on our current fiscal year, on June 29, we face what may be the most impactful election in Bell Canyon’s history. Your vote will shape the future of our community. Whether you support the current direction or seek change, your vote matters. Please vote.

Some highlights and reflections from the current fiscal year include the successful replacement of the Community Center roof, long-overdue road repairs, and recapitalization efforts—most notably through the resolution of all 12 inherited lawsuits, recovering $900,000 from what was once considered a hopeless case, and the sale of a community-owned property.

The year also saw the return of community events and movie nights, the hiring of a professional Community Management Company (Keystone), the formation of the Emergency Preparedness Committee, and the launch of this very publication—Insider, Bell Canyon’s new digital magazine.

With a clear-eyed commitment to the future, we were privileged to deliver for you and are more optimistic than ever to declare that better days are ahead.

Enthusiastically, Kevin and Mike

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A Springtime Favorite The 2025 Bell Canyon Eggstravaganza It was a perfect spring day in Bell Canyon, with brilliant blue skies and nearly 80-degree sunshine setting the stage for the 2025 Eggstravaganza— one of our community’s most beloved traditions.

This year’s event was a true celebration of community spirit, drawing more than 500 residents to Bell Creek Park for a morning filled with laughter, connection, and springtime magic. Over 250 children eagerly participated in a range of activities including arts & crafts, a bounce house, face painting, and a charming petting zoo.

The highlight of the day? A thrilling egg hunt featuring more than 4,000 brightly colored eggs scattered across the grass. As the starting horn sounded, children dashed forward with baskets, bags, and buckets in hand, scooping up eggs with excitement and determination. The field was a kaleidoscope of color—vibrant greens, oranges, purples, and yellows shimmering in the sunlight— while proud parents and neighbors cheered from the sidelines.

The photo-worthy moments were endless, capturing the pure joy and enthusiasm that defines the Eggstravaganza year after year. Events like this remind us why Bell Canyon is more than just a neighborhood—it’s a connected, caring community where traditions thrive and memories are made.

Thank you to the volunteers and organizers who helped make this year’s Eggstravaganza such a success. We’re already looking forward to next spring!

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This last spring, our hills looked almost tropical with lush green rolling hills. Compare this to just a short 3 months later on the adjacent page.

Our HOA had an informative Fire Safety Town Hall in May to help educate our community. See page 27 for more on that meeting.

Spring of 2025 West End of Bell Canyon Looking toward Ahmanson Ranch Photo By: Alderson

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Summer of 2025 West End of Bell Canyon Looking toward Ahmanson Ranch Photo By: Alderson

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Twin Town Halls Bring Bell Canyon Residents Together Progress, Preparedness, and Transparency Over the past months, the Bell Canyon HOA has presented a series of important public meetings at the Bell Canyon Community Center, as part of a continued effort by the current board to foster transparency, accountability, and community involvement.

March 30th, the first gathering, State of the Canyon, was a landmark event that drew a good crowd to the long-overlooked Social Hall. Held in the heart of the community, the meeting highlighted the challenges the current board inherited, including years of deferred maintenance, limited financial reserves, and unaddressed structural issues of the BCCC with issues dating back to the 1994 Northridge earthquake. A comprehensive slide presentation walked residents through the community’s fiscal history, current priorities, and a forwardlooking plan. Graphs and financial summaries made the complex issues more accessible, and attendees were able to enjoy coffee and snacks as they engaged in thoughtful discussion. The event took place inside the very building now undergoing revitalization, where a new roof has recently been installed, and additional structural repairs are in the pipeline.

May 3rd, a second meeting focused on Fire Safety, held on a Saturday brought attention to one of Bell Canyon’s most urgent priorities: wildfire preparedness. Hosted again at the Community Center, this town hall featured local officials, safety experts, and members of the Board addressing residents’ questions about evacuation routes, brush clearance, emergency alerting systems, and home-hardening strategies. Attendees were invited to submit questions in advance, creating a productive and focused dialogue on protecting the canyon.

In addition, on April 15th, the Citizens Advisory Committee of Ventura County Waterworks District 17 held a meeting to present the latest plans for the proposed Reservoir #3, a major infrastructure project intended to support fire resilience and long-term water supply.

Residents were briefed on a secured $10 million loan/grant, offered at 0% interest with 30% forgiveness upon 70% repayment. However, the presentation revealed that an unexpected requirement—building a new access road—would cost an additional $5 million, a matter of serious concern for Bell Canyon water rate payers.

Together, these recent meetings reflect a turning point for Bell Canyon, a forward-thinking HOA board, a shift toward active engagement, transparent governance, and critical investment in the safety and longevity of the community we all call home.

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State of the Canyon Town Hall Meeting, March 30th

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State of the Canyon Town Hall Meeting, March 30th

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State of the Canyon Town Hall Meeting, March 30th

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State of the Canyon Town Hall Meeting, March 30th

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State of the Canyon Town Hall Meeting, March 30th

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Fire Safety Town Hall Meeting, May 3rd

May 3rd, a second meeting focused on Fire Safety, held on a Saturday brought attention to one of Bell Canyon’s most urgent priorities: wildfire preparedness.

Hosted again at the Community Center, this town hall featured local officials, safety experts, and members of the Board addressing residents’ questions about evacuation routes, brush clearance, emergency alerting systems, and homehardening strategies. Attendees were invited to submit questions in advance, creating a productive and focused dialogue on protecting the canyon.

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Fire Safety Town Hall Meeting, May 3rd The following pages share pictures from the Fire Safety Town Hall Meeting, as well as a few key slides from the presentation. The full slide presentation is on the Bell Canyon website as well as many other resources and information.

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Fire Safety Town Hall Meeting, May 3rd We want to acknowledge and thank our speakers for their contributions of time and expertise to our Fire Safety Town Hall.

Speakers included: Don Rebhun, Bell Canyon Member Mike Worford, Ventura County Fire Dept.

Nick Cleary, Ventura County Fire Dept.

Ken Nelson, Mountains Recreation & Conservation Association Thomas Marowelli, Insurance Agent

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Summary of Bell Canyon’s March 31, 2025 0perating Results and Financial Position In the month of March, the Canyon recorded $334 thousand in revenues, primarily from assessments, and $302 thousand in expenses, resulting in “income” of approximately $32 thousand.

As of March 31, the Canyon’s cash balance approximated $2.7million, including refundable construction deposits. The cash balance reflects (i) $495 thousand received in February in connection with a favorable legal settlement, and (ii) $825 thousand in proceeds from an additional borrowing made in February.

These increases were partially offset by advances to the BCCC for payment of amounts owed to contractors for the renovation of the Community Center.

Through March 31, the BCCC has spent $494 thousand on the renovation, primarily related to replacing the Community Center’s roof, including $345 thousand paid with advances from the BCA and $149 thousand paid using its own available cash.

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June 2025 Given all the controversy that has transpired in our canyon, it is important to distinguish between various volunteer organizations. This article is about Community Emergency Response Teams, better known as CERT teams. It is a volunteer organization.

In 1986, recognizing the importance of civilian assistance in responding to emergencies such as fires and earthquakes, the LAFD began the CERT program. Since that time, the program has evolved to what it is today. Not only are CERT teams supported by local fire departments, but they are also a national program supported by FEMA. There are CERT teams in all 50 states and in more than 3200 communities. There is currently a CERT team here in Bell Canyon, and to name a few, there are teams in Thousand Oaks, Simi Valley, and Ventura. After the recent fires, many communities are actively recruiting CERT members.

What do CERT teams do?

Community volunteers are trained in both basic and intermediary emergency responses including first aid, fire safety, and search and rescue. Their role is to assist their community and official responders in times of need. CERT members can provide immediate assistance to victims until professional responders arrive. Volunteers are not intended to replace professional responders.

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Specifically, CERT members are permitted to provide first aid, including CPR; help manage spontaneous volunteers; participate in search and rescue operations; manage traffic; suppress small fires and preventing them from spreading; triaging patients; assisting in evacuation and shelter support; and educating local residents of safety and emergency preparedness.

What does it take to be a CERT team member?

Volunteers must be in good health, a willing volunteer and complete 6 classes (approximately 24 hours) which are provided free of charge by the Ventura County Fire Department, Los Angels County Fire Department, or other similar government organizations.

Graduates receive a certificate of completion and a start-up pack including a helmet, gloves, vest, and goggles. Volunteers are then part of their community CERT team and are encouraged to participate in drills and additional emergency training. CERT teams operate independently, and our Bell Canyon CERT team is coordinated through the Ventura County Fire Department.

We are very fortunate to have a CERT team here in Bell Canyon. There are currently 15 active members. Additional members are needed. The Bell Canyon CERT team is always actively recruiting volunteers.

PLEASE SUPPORT OUR CERT TEAM VOLUNTEERS AND CONSIDER BECOMING A MEMBER. FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT CERT TEAMS, PLEASE REFER TO HTTPS://VCFD.ORG AND HTTPS://FEMA.GOV

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Community Center Update

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Next Phases Already in Progress Phase 1 was just the beginning of a transformative multi-phase plan for the Bell Canyon Community Center. Here’s some additional details.

Phase 2: Planning and budgeting for Phase 2 are well underway, with a focus on transformative interior upgrades that will bring the Community Center to its full potential.

This phase includes addressing damage sustained during the 1994 Northridge earthquake.

Once the roof’s structural reinforcement is complete, the three temporary interior pillars will be removed, restoring the hall’s original open layout.

This change will highlight the stunning tongue-and-groove wood ceilings, enhancing both the aesthetic and functionality of the space. In preparation for these updates, significant work has already been done: the former “drop ceiling” has been removed, outdated HVAC systems disconnected, air handlers dismantled and removed, and old ducting cleared away.

The planned renovations aim to deliver a “new look” reminiscent of the recently remodeled HOA office, blending modern design with the timeless charm of the Community Center.

These updates promise a more inviting, spacious, and functional environment for all.

Phase 3: The final phase will focus on exterior repairs and enhancements, such as stucco fixes, a fresh coat of paint, updated lighting, security upgrades, and free community WiFi to modernize and secure the facility.

It should be emphasized that while planning, some potential structural safety and design work may be commissioned, major renovations will need to wait until funding is available.

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Now that the roof project has been completed, the courtyard support beams and footings are being redone.

Original 1960's support brackets.

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A decade or more of neglect and lack of maintenance by prior board.

Strong new support footings.

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Summer in Bell Canyon

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Summer in Bell Canyon

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Prior Issue - Spring 2025

Dec 2024 Just click to view!

Nov 2024

Oct 2024

Sep 2024

Aug 2024

Jul 2024

Jun 2024

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where to stay.

Local Resources

The following pages are local listings for your convenience and do not represent in anyway an endorsement or affiliation with the Bell Canyon Home Owner’s Association.

Want to help us expand our resources guide?

Volunteer!

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AGOURA HILLS

THOUSAND OAKS

Courtyard TownePlace Suites 29505 Agoura Road Agoura Hills 747-263-2348

Best Western Plus 75 West Thousand Oaks Blvd.

Thousand Oaks 805-497-3701

Hampton Inn 30255 Agoura Road Agoura Hills 818-597-0333

Courtyard by Marriott 1710 Newbury Road Thousand Oaks 805-499-3900

Homewood Suites by Hilton 28901 Canwood Street Agoura Hills 818-865-1000

TownePlace Suites 1712 Newbury Road Thousand Oaks 805-499-3111

Sheraton 30100 Agoura Road Agoura Hills 818-707-1220

WOODLAND HILLS

CALABASAS

Best Western 21830 Ventura Blvd.

Woodland Hills 800-568-8520

The Anza 23627 Calabasas Road Calabasas 818-707-1220

Courtyard by Marriott 21101 Ventura Blvd.

Woodland Hills 844-631-0595

Cambria Hotel 26400 Rondell Street Calabasas 747-293-6777

Hilton 6360 Canoga Avenue Woodland Hills 855-605-0316

Good Nite Inn 26557 Agoura Road Calabasas 818-880-6000

Warner Center Marriott 21850 Oxnard Street Woodland Hills 844-631-0595

Hilton Garden Inn 24150 Park Sorrento Calabasas 818-591-2300

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where to eat.

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AGOURA HILLS Basta 28863 Agoura Road Agoura Hills 818-865-2019

King’s Fish House 4798 Commons Way Calabasas 818-225-1979

Lal Mirch 5146 Kanan Road Agoura Hills 818-532-7532

Porta Via 4799 Commons Way Calabasas 818-746-2400

Noi Due Trattoria 29020 Agoura Road Agoura Hills 818-852-7090

Rose’s Garden Bar 26787 Agoura Road Calabasas 424-955-3312

Sunrose California Eatery 5046 Cornell Road Agoura Hills 818-330-4224

Shibuya 4774 Park Granada Ste 8B Calabasas 818-225-1560

CALABASAS The Mulholland 23538 Calabasas Road Calabasas 818-573-5667 Cafecito 4774 Park Granada Calabasas 818-225-2233 Crossroads Kitchen 4776 Commons Way Calabasas 747-230-4210

WOODLAND HILLS Blai 5780 Canoga Avenue Ste B Woodland Hills 747-242-1112 Casalena 22160 Ventura Blvd Woodland Hills 818-704-1185 Deux Bistro 20969 Ventura Blvd Woodland Hills 747-230-4034

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H.O.M Italian Eatery 21136 Ventura Blvd Woodland Hills 747-900-8782 Joey Woodland hills 6344 Topanga Canyon Blvd Woodland Hills 818-340-5639 Leo & Lily 22420 Ventura Blvd Woodland Hills 818-222-6622 Lum Ka Naad 22919 Ventura Blvd Woodland Hills 818-914-4489 Mas Mananitas 19725 Ventura Blvd Woodland Hills 747-746-8166 North Italia 6600 Topanga Canyon Blvd Canoga Park 818-710-7246

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The Bell Canyon CSD put on a very successful Spring Clean-up day!

Summer in Bell Canyon

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Each month, the Bell Canyon Insider will take a step back in time, revisiting pieces of our community’s history to see how far we’ve come—and perhaps learn something along the way. Over the years, thousands of people have called Bell Canyon home, some for just a short while, others for decades, shaping the fabric of our unique neighborhood.

For our second flashback, we’re turning the pages back to April 1996, when a new neighborhood publication, The Canyon, made its debut a few months before. We've reproduced Vol 1, No. 2 here for you to enjoy—a glimpse into Bell Canyon nearly 30 years ago.

NOTE: Pages that contained full page advertisements were not included.

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Sunrise in Bell Canyon Saddlebow Area Photo By: Bondy

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insider@BellCanyon.com