Moorpark approves Simi Valley's decision on Reagan library, land

Moorpark city officials voted earlier this month to endorse a request by the city of Simi Valley to eventually incorporate the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library into the neighboring city's boundaries.

The Local Agency Formation Commission, which oversees city and county boundaries, heard a proposal on April 18 to include the 100-acre Reagan Library and surrounding parcels- 68 acres and six residential lots on Presidential Drive- in Simi Valley's sphere of influence.

Annexation can only occur once specified lands are in a city's sphere of influence.

The commission postponed the discussion so issues regarding the Tierra Rejada Greenbelt could first be reviewed.

The county and three cities surrounding what comprises the greenbelt made an agreement 20 years ago to ensure that agricultural and undeveloped countryside parcels are preserved between cities.

The Tierra Rejada Valley remains primarily agricultural, but private homes have sprouted on large lots since the greenbelt agreement was first created.

Officials said they want assurances that more development won't take place in the greenbelt area, including land that surrounds the library.

"It would be really nice if the county would put a moratorium on development in the greenbelt until a greenbelt agreement is reviewed in the near future," said Councilmember Roseann Mikos.

The council member champions concerns that key wildlife corridors cannot exist if property owners continue to encroach on and fence in open spaces.

- Sylvie Belmond