Board approves ninth amendment to Channel Islands Harbor plan for Karls project

The Ventura County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to adopt a resolution approving the ninth amendment to the Channel Islands Harbor Public Works Plan, making minor changes to the previously approved Karls project on leasehold Parcel V.

The amendment adjusts square footages across several use categories on the parcel. Restaurant space drops from 23,158 to 20,230 square feet, while retail grows from 19,074 to 24,187 square feet, according to the August 4 agenda packet. Recreational entertainment increases from 3,746 to 4,653 square feet, food production show area rises from 3,116 to 4,025 square feet, and office space expands from 500 to 785 square feet.

The changes shift the main building's footprint from an S-shaped layout to a backwards C, opening a larger courtyard facing the harbor. A smaller building on the site will replace a planned public restroom with a coffee shop, intended to serve visitors during construction.

Harbor Department Director Michael Tripp told the board the changes are minor but require a public works plan amendment because the plan governs even small modifications. The California Coastal Commission must still approve the amendment, though Tripp said the commission has indicated it can process the request quickly.

The Karls project redevelops the deteriorating Fisherman's Wharf site at the intersection of Victoria Avenue and Channel Islands Boulevard in Oxnard. The eighth amendment to the public works plan, which first approved the Karls project, was certified by the Coastal Commission in August 2025.

Supervisor Vianey Lopez made the motion to adopt the resolution. Supervisor Kelly Long seconded. The vote was unanimous.