A Ventura organization which is dedicating to preserving open space in the city has hired a new executive director.
The Ventura Hillsides Conservancy has picked Melina Sempill Watts to head the organization. Watts spent seven years working for the Santa Monica Mountains Resource Conservation District, working in both conservation, and fundraising efforts. She fills a position that’s been vacant for nearly a year.
The Hillsides Conservancy was formed after residents successfully fought the proposed development of some pristine hillside property several years ago. It now manages more than 18 acres of land, and is exploring the opportunity to help preserve more properties.
