DRAFT - Ojai Valley Democratic Club Appeals Charter Denial to California Democratic Party

OJAI, Calif. — July16 — The Ojai Valley Democratic Club (OVDC) intends to continue serving Democratic voters in the Ojai Valley. On June 23, the Ventura County Democratic Central Committee (VCDCC) voted not to renew OVDC's charter. OVDC has formally appealed the decision to the Compliance and Review Commission of the California Democratic Party; the appeal was filed July 13. Background: OVDC applied for charter renewal on April 1, 2026, and met all requirements for rechartering. OVDC contends the June 23 VCDCC decision resulted from a flawed process not authorized by VCDCC's own governing documents, and that the decision rested on unsubstantiated allegations rather than an impartial review of verified facts. On July 1, VCDCC Chair Steven Auclair stated that "the VCDCC is not required to provide grounds or cause for a final decision not to renew a charter." Shortly after the vote, Auclair sent an email to OVDC members suggesting they join other clubs. OVDC has asked VCDCC to cease contacting or soliciting its members while the dispute is pending. The club believes its members are entitled to decide their own political involvement without direction from VCDCC. "Our focus remains on ensuring that Democratic organizations are governed fairly, transparently, and according to the rules," said OVDC leadership. OJai Valley Democrats have served the Ojai Valley for over 20 years.

We are looking at other ways to still stay politically active, includinng supporting democratic inititives and candidates. The members agreed to become an independent affiliate of the CAL Democratic Council while the appeal proceeds, OVDC will continue to hold meetings and explore its options. The public is invited to the club's next meeting on August 16, 4:30–6:30 p.m., at Help of Ojai. ###