BOOKING NUMBER: 0509301413
DATE: 09/27/2005 TIME: 1030
ARREST DATE: 09/27/2005 TIME: 0915
LOC: BARTON/CANAL
AGENCY: GRANDTERRACE CITY
RELEASE DATE: TIME: FACILITY: CENTRAL D.C.
NAME:
LAST: CHANDRASEN FIRST: CHANIDA MIDDLE:
DOB: 04/24/1949 SEX: F
RACE: O HT: 5 06 WT: 120 HAIR: BLK EYE COLOR: BRO
OCCUPATION: UNEMPLOYED
CHARGE TYPE SUPPL/HOLD BAIL DISPOSITION
PC1320(A) MISD ORIGINAL NO BAIL
PC484 MISD ORIGINAL
PC853.7 MISD ORIGINAL
__________________________________________________________
Charge Detail
PC1320. (a) Every person who is charged with or convicted of the commission of a misdemeanor who is released from custody on his or her own recognizance and who in order to evade the process of the court willfully fails to appear as required, is guilty of a misdemeanor. It shall be presumed that a defendant who willfully fails to appear within 14 days of the date assigned for his or her appearance intended to evade the process of the court.
PC484. (a) Every person who shall feloniously steal, take, carry, lead, or drive away the personal property of another, or who shall fraudulently appropriate property which has been entrusted to him orher, or who shall knowingly and designedly, by any false or fraudulent representation or pretense, defraud any other person of money, labor or real or personal property, or who causes or procures others to report falsely of his or her wealth or mercantile character and by thus imposing upon any person, obtains credit and there by fraudulently gets or obtains possession of money, or property or obtains the labor or service of another, is guilty of theft. Indetermining the value of the property obtained, for the purposes of this section, the reasonable and fair market value shall be the test, and in determining the value of services received the contract price shall be the test. If there be no contract price, the reasonable and going wage for the service rendered shall govern. For the purposes of this section, any false or fraudulent representation or pretense made shall be treated as continuing, so as to cover anymoney, property or service received as a result thereof, and the complaint, information or indictment may charge that the crime was committed on any date during the particular period in question. The hiring of any additional employee or employees without advising each of them of every labor claim due and unpaid and every judgment that the employer has been unable to meet shall be prima facie evidence of intent to defraud.
PC853.7. Any person who willfully violates his or her written promise to appear or a lawfully granted continuance of his or her promise to appear in court is guilty of a misdemeanor, regardless of the disposition of the charge upon which he or she was originally arrested.
_________________________________
_________________________________
BOOKING NUMBER: 0509344893
DATE: 09/28/2005 TIME: 2016
ARREST DATE: 09/28/2005 TIME: 1730
LOC: CANAL ST/MCCLARREN AVE
AGENCY: GRANDTERRACE CITY
RELEASE DATE: TIME: FACILITY: WEST VALLEY D.C.
NAME:
LAST: SERRANO FIRST: HUTALIO MIDDLE: GRANADOS
DOB: 08/26/1968 SEX: M
RACE: H HT: 5 10 WT: 205 HAIR: BLK EYE COLOR: BRO
OCCUPATION: NONE LISTED
CHARGE TYPE SUPPL/HOLD BAIL DISPOSITION
VC20001(A) FEL ORIGINAL $50,000.00
VC23153(A) FEL ORIGINAL
___________________________________________________
Charge Detail
VC20001. (a) The driver of any vehicle involved in an accident resulting in injury to any person, other than himself or herself, or in the death of any person shall immediately stop the vehicle at the scene of the accident and shall fulfill the requirements of Sections 20003 and 20004.
VC23153. (a) It is unlawful for any person, while under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or drug, or under the combined influence of any alcoholic beverage and drug, to drive a vehicle and concurrently do any act forbidden by law, or neglect any duty imposed by law in driving the vehicle, which act or neglect proximately causes bodily injury to any person other than the driver.
________________________________________
Thursday, September 29, 2005
Reflections... For a Moment
According to a news paper release.. Assistant City Manager Steve Berry said: Solar-powered reflectors will soon be installed on the median at Mount Vernon Avenue and Grand Terrace Road
This is an improvement for the ill planned island with boulders and trees in the middle of the street.
I wonder when the city first heard of the suggestion of a solar light??? Could it have been on this blog???
Perhaps they will hear that there is a palm tree planted right under a power/communication line....
Now, they may not be concerned with placing hard objects in the middle of the street for cars to run into... Perhaps they may want to consider either moving the tree or the wire above it before there is contact... and possibly a fire..
This is an improvement for the ill planned island with boulders and trees in the middle of the street.
I wonder when the city first heard of the suggestion of a solar light??? Could it have been on this blog???
Perhaps they will hear that there is a palm tree planted right under a power/communication line....
Now, they may not be concerned with placing hard objects in the middle of the street for cars to run into... Perhaps they may want to consider either moving the tree or the wire above it before there is contact... and possibly a fire..
EMINENT DOMAIN PROTECTION LAWS
There were four measures introduced in the Senate during the week of August 15-19 dealing with questions relating to eminent domain. They are:
SCA 12 by Senators Tom Torlakson and Christine Kehoe (principal co-authors are Assembly Members Gene Mullin and Simon Salinas) is a proposed constitutional amendment that, if approved by the voters, would prohibit the use of eminent domain for the taking of "owner-occupied residential property" for private use.
SB 53 by Senator Christine Kehoe would require new and existing redevelopment plans to declare whether eminent domain will be used and specifically allows the agency to prohibit the use of eminent domain for certain uses such as owner-occupied residential property or in certain geographic areas. (Agencies have the authority to do that now.) The use of eminent domain in new plans would be initially limited to 10 years (instead of 12 in current law) from adoption of the plan. For plans adopted before January 1, 2006, they would have to be amended before July 1, 2006 to include the planned uses of eminent domain and a time limit on the use of eminent domain not beyond July 1, 2009. This bill may be a "spot bill" that will be kept available for further amendments.
SB1026 by Senator Kehoe would impose a two-year moratorium on the use of eminent domain for the taking of "owner-occupied residential property" for private use. It would also require the California Research Bureau to report to the Legislature by January 1, 2007 on all condemnations of owner-occupied residential property for private use from 1996 to 2006, and what became of those properties.
Companion measures to SCA 12 and SB 1026 are expected to be introduced in the Assembly in the next few days.
SB 1099 by Senator Dennis Hollingsworth would prohibit the use of eminent domain for "agricultural property" unless the condemning government retains direct ownership of the property or the property is transferred to a private entity for health care facilities, public utilities, or transit facilities.
SCA 12 and SB 1026, along with the companion Assembly bills when they are amended, represent the Democratic alternatives to SCA 15 (McClintock) and ACA 22 (LaMalfa), extreme measures that would all but end the use of eminent domain for redevelopment.
Make your desires known to your representitives at all levels of government. Let the State Representitives know your desires on the legislative options. Let your City Council Know they will be removed from office if Eminent Domain is allowed as a "Redevelopment Agency Tool".
SCA 12 by Senators Tom Torlakson and Christine Kehoe (principal co-authors are Assembly Members Gene Mullin and Simon Salinas) is a proposed constitutional amendment that, if approved by the voters, would prohibit the use of eminent domain for the taking of "owner-occupied residential property" for private use.
SB 53 by Senator Christine Kehoe would require new and existing redevelopment plans to declare whether eminent domain will be used and specifically allows the agency to prohibit the use of eminent domain for certain uses such as owner-occupied residential property or in certain geographic areas. (Agencies have the authority to do that now.) The use of eminent domain in new plans would be initially limited to 10 years (instead of 12 in current law) from adoption of the plan. For plans adopted before January 1, 2006, they would have to be amended before July 1, 2006 to include the planned uses of eminent domain and a time limit on the use of eminent domain not beyond July 1, 2009. This bill may be a "spot bill" that will be kept available for further amendments.
SB1026 by Senator Kehoe would impose a two-year moratorium on the use of eminent domain for the taking of "owner-occupied residential property" for private use. It would also require the California Research Bureau to report to the Legislature by January 1, 2007 on all condemnations of owner-occupied residential property for private use from 1996 to 2006, and what became of those properties.
Companion measures to SCA 12 and SB 1026 are expected to be introduced in the Assembly in the next few days.
SB 1099 by Senator Dennis Hollingsworth would prohibit the use of eminent domain for "agricultural property" unless the condemning government retains direct ownership of the property or the property is transferred to a private entity for health care facilities, public utilities, or transit facilities.
SCA 12 and SB 1026, along with the companion Assembly bills when they are amended, represent the Democratic alternatives to SCA 15 (McClintock) and ACA 22 (LaMalfa), extreme measures that would all but end the use of eminent domain for redevelopment.
Make your desires known to your representitives at all levels of government. Let the State Representitives know your desires on the legislative options. Let your City Council Know they will be removed from office if Eminent Domain is allowed as a "Redevelopment Agency Tool".
Tuesday, September 27, 2005
Cost of Last Years Halloween Haunt..
GRAND TERRACE HALLOWEEN HAUNT
2004 REVENUE/EXPENSE REPORT
Revenue
Contributors
$ 250 WEC Electric
$ 250 Roquet Paving
$ 250 Tony & Ann Petta
$ 250 Wilden Pump
$ 250 Maryetta Ferre
$ 250 Grand Terrace Seniors Club
$ 250 Keystone Schools
$ 500 Don Larkin
$ 250 Bobbi Forbes
$ 250 Stonewood Construction
$ 1,000 Waste Management
$ 250 Stonewood Construction
$ 250 Jim Miller for City Council
$ 450 Foundation of Grand Terrace
$ 250 Grand Terrace Comm. Soccer
$ 250 Lee Ann Garcia
$ 1,393.8 SB County Fire Dept. (this was the Oil Grant Funds)
$ 20 Hay Sales
$ 642.42 Caryover Balance /03
$ 7256.22 Total Revenue
Expenses
$ 437.25 Walmart (decorations)
$ 720.35 JZ's Party Charm (rentals)
$ 450 Entertainer
$ 541.51 Candy
$ 11.83 Music
$ 378.75 Driver Alliant Insurance
$ 608.74 Opportunity Drawing (bikes, xbox, gameboy, portable dvd player)
$ 285 Costume Prizes
$ 100 Balloons
$ 100 Heater Rentals
$ 64.48 Beverages
$ 94.75 Game Prizes
$ 518.48 Bulk Mail Postage Fees
$ 809.25 Accent Print & Design
$ 131.83 Hay
$ 109.04 Home Depot
$ 97 99 cent store
$ 5458.26 Total Expenses
$ 1797.96 Balance Carry Over to 2005 (carry over to 2005)
In-kind Contributions
500 Grand Terrace Women's Club (candy)
Riverside Highland Water (generator)
Please note the contributors above... and how the funds are spent... Why is the soccer team contributing to this when they say they need every penny?
The readers may have other questions about contributions.
The readers may have questions about how the funds are spent. There may be question about the planning of the event. Please contact the City Office and Join the Planning Group for the Event this year.
2004 REVENUE/EXPENSE REPORT
Revenue
Contributors
$ 250 WEC Electric
$ 250 Roquet Paving
$ 250 Tony & Ann Petta
$ 250 Wilden Pump
$ 250 Maryetta Ferre
$ 250 Grand Terrace Seniors Club
$ 250 Keystone Schools
$ 500 Don Larkin
$ 250 Bobbi Forbes
$ 250 Stonewood Construction
$ 1,000 Waste Management
$ 250 Stonewood Construction
$ 250 Jim Miller for City Council
$ 450 Foundation of Grand Terrace
$ 250 Grand Terrace Comm. Soccer
$ 250 Lee Ann Garcia
$ 1,393.8 SB County Fire Dept. (this was the Oil Grant Funds)
$ 20 Hay Sales
$ 642.42 Caryover Balance /03
$ 7256.22 Total Revenue
Expenses
$ 437.25 Walmart (decorations)
$ 720.35 JZ's Party Charm (rentals)
$ 450 Entertainer
$ 541.51 Candy
$ 11.83 Music
$ 378.75 Driver Alliant Insurance
$ 608.74 Opportunity Drawing (bikes, xbox, gameboy, portable dvd player)
$ 285 Costume Prizes
$ 100 Balloons
$ 100 Heater Rentals
$ 64.48 Beverages
$ 94.75 Game Prizes
$ 518.48 Bulk Mail Postage Fees
$ 809.25 Accent Print & Design
$ 131.83 Hay
$ 109.04 Home Depot
$ 97 99 cent store
$ 5458.26 Total Expenses
$ 1797.96 Balance Carry Over to 2005 (carry over to 2005)
In-kind Contributions
500 Grand Terrace Women's Club (candy)
Riverside Highland Water (generator)
Please note the contributors above... and how the funds are spent... Why is the soccer team contributing to this when they say they need every penny?
The readers may have other questions about contributions.
The readers may have questions about how the funds are spent. There may be question about the planning of the event. Please contact the City Office and Join the Planning Group for the Event this year.
One Party for Kids... One Night.. $7,000.00
Important Community Service
Community Emergency Response Team C.E.R.T is looking for GT Residents
The C.E.R.T. program provides participants with "hands-on" practical training that will enable them to effectively plan for and respond to an earthquake, or other emergencies in and around their neighborhood. The Rialto Fire Department personnel will be teaching the course for Grand Terrace residents. C.E.R.T. is about readiness, people helping people, rescuer safety, and doing the greatest good for the greatest number.
Introduction to C.E.R.T.
CERT was first established by the Los Angeles City Fire Department in 1986. In 1993, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), using LAFD's model, began promoting nationwide use of the CERT concept. Since then, C.E.R.T. has been established in all 50 states.
The need for C.E.R.T. Teams
Local government prepares for everyday emergencies. However, during a disaster, the number and scope of incidents can overwhelm conventional emergency services. Fire and Police personnel will be unable to provide services to all those that need assistance. Community members face a tremendous responsibility for the safety and welfare of their family members day-to-day, especially in the event of an emergency. This valuable course is designed to help you protect yourself, your family, your neighbors and your neighborhood in an emergency situation.
Training
Upon completing the C.E.R.T. training participants will be able to:
Extinguish small fires and control building utilities
Perform safe and effective search and rescue procedures
Recognize and treat many life threatening injuries involving multiple victims
Establish treatment areas for the continued care of those injured until professional assistance is available
Easily interface with professional emergency responders due to the knowledge in fire and police terminology and procedures.
Determine the types of supplies necessary to assist family and neighbors
The initial training is followed by continuing education program. These sessions - drills and refresher classes - are offered periodically, and give
C.E.R.T. graduates a chance to sharpen and update their skills. Some supplies will be provided; optional material will be supplied by the student.
What role does C.E.R.T. play in an emergency?
Be better prepared to deal with events that might otherwise seem overwhelming
Recognize any potential hazards, and take steps to safely assist, or get assistance
Assume a leadership role with both those who are or are not trained to deal with the event.
Allow better allocation of emergency resources by being more capable of "sizing up" a situation and properly advising emergency responders
Take steps to get to safety and/or help others to do so in a more organized manner
Identify, organize, and utilize available resources
Perform needs assessment, document, and communicate needs to local authorities
Assist others with the emotional distress associated with major emergencies and disaster conditions
Why should I sign up for C.E.R.T. training?
It's like paying for car insurance. You might never need either; you'd hope not to. But if the occasion arises, having the CERT training, just like having car insurance, means you're as ready as you can be to help yourself, your family and your neighborhood.
How can I receive the training?
The next C.E.R.T. class will start on October 12th and will continue every Wednesday evening until November 16th. Start time is 6:00 p.m. and will last until 10:00p.m. The location of the training is Rialto Fire Station #203 located at 1550 N. Ayala (near Rialto Airport). You must attend all sessions in order to receive a course completion certificate. You must wear sturdy shoes. All other materials will be provided. Any program costs will be covered by the City of Grand Terrace, EOC fund. Call (909)820-2501 to register.
Future C.E.R.T. classes will be offered in February 2006 and June 2006. Classes are either scheduled one per week for three weeks or one per week for six weeks. Attendance is required for all class days.
Classes are open to all City of GT citizens who are at least 18 years old.
Dare to Air your Concerns...
Riverside-San Bernardino, CA
Facts about your city/region
Rank (1 is worst): 2
Lost days (bad air days times children affected): 38,782,050
Equal to: exposing over 6,500 buses full of children to unhealthy air for the entire summer.
Percent of summer days dangerous for kids with asthma: 70%
Number of kids with asthma: 88,502
Asthma and air pollution, a dangerous mix
More about air in this area
Details about air quality and other pollution
Enter your Zip Code
View your local air forecast
How to Clean Up the Air
Read about cost-effective policies to improve tailpipes, smokestacks and traffic - three leading contributors of air pollution.
Ten practical steps you can take to reduce air pollution, at home and on the road.
Write to Congress supporting a transportation bill that would that help ensure health, safety and overall quality of life.
Sign up to receive email alerts about similar action you can can take.
http://www.environmentaldefense.org/cleanairforlife.cfm?subnav=aiyc_overview
Facts about your city/region
Rank (1 is worst): 2
Lost days (bad air days times children affected): 38,782,050
Equal to: exposing over 6,500 buses full of children to unhealthy air for the entire summer.
Percent of summer days dangerous for kids with asthma: 70%
Number of kids with asthma: 88,502
Asthma and air pollution, a dangerous mix
More about air in this area
Details about air quality and other pollution
Enter your Zip Code
View your local air forecast
How to Clean Up the Air
Read about cost-effective policies to improve tailpipes, smokestacks and traffic - three leading contributors of air pollution.
Ten practical steps you can take to reduce air pollution, at home and on the road.
Write to Congress supporting a transportation bill that would that help ensure health, safety and overall quality of life.
Sign up to receive email alerts about similar action you can can take.
http://www.environmentaldefense.org/cleanairforlife.cfm?subnav=aiyc_overview
Don't Inhale
Los Angeles Study Finds Higher Pollution Death Risk
LOS ANGELES -- The risk of dying from air pollution in parts of traffic-clogged Los Angeles appears sharply higher than previously believed, according to a study comparing the risks of living in affluent, beach front neighborhoods to the hazy and fast-growing inland area.
The study was a first to attempt to look at how chronic health problems are linked to the degree of pollution across the neighborhoods of a major U.S. city, lead author, Michael Jerrett said.
The study, which will be published in the November issue of Epidemiology, found the risk of death rose by 11 to 17 percent from the cleanest parts of Los Angeles to the most polluted areas of Riverside and San Bernardino counties to the east.
The risk of fatal heart disease rose by between 25 percent to 39 percent as the concentration of fine particles in the neighborhood's air rose by a measure of 10 micrograms per cubic meter of air, the study showed.
Data from monitoring sites within Los Angeles show that the concentration of such airborne particles -- tiny specks of solids and droplets of acids and other chemicals -- rises by almost 20 micrograms per cubic meter as commuters head east from L.A.'s wealthier, westside neighborhoods.
Los Angeles, infamous for its smog and traffic congestion, is ringed by mountains that help trap pollution in a basin that is home to over 13 million people.
Previous research has concentrated on how the health risks from pollution differ from one city to the next, broad measurements that have been used to set air quality standards, said Jerrett, a professor at USC's Keck School of Medicine.
Scientists believe the smallest particles of pollution pose the greatest health risk since they sink deep into the lungs and enter the blood, causing inflammation and a thickening of artery walls that can prompt heart attacks and strokes.
"It's what we can't see that is most dangerous to us," Jerrett said.
The study, based on an analysis of data on almost 23,000 people tracked by the American Cancer Society, also found that the risk of death from diabetes almost doubled in the more polluted areas of Southern California.
"I think that's something we need to investigate further," Jerrett said.
A separate study by USC researchers, also published in the same medical journal, found that children living close to freeways in Southern California had a far higher risk of developing asthma. "It adds to a growing body of literature that air pollution can cause asthma," the study's lead author, James Gauderman said.
Funded by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, a federal agency, the study found that children living in homes with a higher concentration of nitrogen dioxide -- a pollutant found in car exhaust -- had an 83 percent higher chance of developing asthma. "We see that pollution is a problem from the cradle to the grave," said Jerrett.
Story from REDNOVA NEWS:http://www.rednova.com/news/display/?id=252439Published: 2005/09/27 04:35:00 CDT© Rednova 2004
LOS ANGELES -- The risk of dying from air pollution in parts of traffic-clogged Los Angeles appears sharply higher than previously believed, according to a study comparing the risks of living in affluent, beach front neighborhoods to the hazy and fast-growing inland area.
The study was a first to attempt to look at how chronic health problems are linked to the degree of pollution across the neighborhoods of a major U.S. city, lead author, Michael Jerrett said.
The study, which will be published in the November issue of Epidemiology, found the risk of death rose by 11 to 17 percent from the cleanest parts of Los Angeles to the most polluted areas of Riverside and San Bernardino counties to the east.
The risk of fatal heart disease rose by between 25 percent to 39 percent as the concentration of fine particles in the neighborhood's air rose by a measure of 10 micrograms per cubic meter of air, the study showed.
Data from monitoring sites within Los Angeles show that the concentration of such airborne particles -- tiny specks of solids and droplets of acids and other chemicals -- rises by almost 20 micrograms per cubic meter as commuters head east from L.A.'s wealthier, westside neighborhoods.
Los Angeles, infamous for its smog and traffic congestion, is ringed by mountains that help trap pollution in a basin that is home to over 13 million people.
Previous research has concentrated on how the health risks from pollution differ from one city to the next, broad measurements that have been used to set air quality standards, said Jerrett, a professor at USC's Keck School of Medicine.
Scientists believe the smallest particles of pollution pose the greatest health risk since they sink deep into the lungs and enter the blood, causing inflammation and a thickening of artery walls that can prompt heart attacks and strokes.
"It's what we can't see that is most dangerous to us," Jerrett said.
The study, based on an analysis of data on almost 23,000 people tracked by the American Cancer Society, also found that the risk of death from diabetes almost doubled in the more polluted areas of Southern California.
"I think that's something we need to investigate further," Jerrett said.
A separate study by USC researchers, also published in the same medical journal, found that children living close to freeways in Southern California had a far higher risk of developing asthma. "It adds to a growing body of literature that air pollution can cause asthma," the study's lead author, James Gauderman said.
Funded by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, a federal agency, the study found that children living in homes with a higher concentration of nitrogen dioxide -- a pollutant found in car exhaust -- had an 83 percent higher chance of developing asthma. "We see that pollution is a problem from the cradle to the grave," said Jerrett.
Story from REDNOVA NEWS:http://www.rednova.com/news/display/?id=252439Published: 2005/09/27 04:35:00 CDT© Rednova 2004
Arrest # 10 Drugs
BOOKING NUMBER: 0509301372
DATE: 09/26/2005 TIME: 0942
ARREST DATE: 09/26/2005 TIME: 0840
LOC: BARTON/MT VERNON AVE
AGENCY: GRANDTERRACE CITY
RELEASE DATE: TIME: FACILITY: CENTRAL D.C.
NAME:
LAST: DOUGLAS FIRST: TOMMIE MIDDLE: JAMES
DOB: 08/19/1982
SEX: M RACE: W HT: 6 00 WT: 185 HAIR: BRO EYE COLOR: BRO OCCUPATION: PAINTER
CHARGE TYPE SUPPL/HOLD BAIL DISPOSITION
HS11377(A) FEL ORIGINAL $40,000.00
_____________________________________________________________
Charge Detail:
HS11377. (a) Except as authorized by law and as other wise provided in subdivision (b) or Section 11375, or in Article 7 (commencing with Section 4211) of Chapter 9 of Division 2 of the Business and Professions Code, every person who possesses any controlled substance which is (1) classified in Schedule III, IV, or V, and which is not a narcotic drug, (2) specified in subdivision (d) of Section 11054, except paragraphs (13), (14), (15), and (20) of subdivision (d), (3) specified in paragraph (11) of subdivision (c) of Section 11056, (4) specified in paragraph (2) or (3) of subdivision (f) of Section 11054, or (5) specified in subdivision (d), (e), or (f) of Section 11055, unless upon the prescription of a physician, dentist, podiatrist, or veterinarian, licensed to practice in this state, shall be punished by imprisonment in a county jail for a period of not more than one year or in the state prison.
______________________________
DATE: 09/26/2005 TIME: 0942
ARREST DATE: 09/26/2005 TIME: 0840
LOC: BARTON/MT VERNON AVE
AGENCY: GRANDTERRACE CITY
RELEASE DATE: TIME: FACILITY: CENTRAL D.C.
NAME:
LAST: DOUGLAS FIRST: TOMMIE MIDDLE: JAMES
DOB: 08/19/1982
SEX: M RACE: W HT: 6 00 WT: 185 HAIR: BRO EYE COLOR: BRO OCCUPATION: PAINTER
CHARGE TYPE SUPPL/HOLD BAIL DISPOSITION
HS11377(A) FEL ORIGINAL $40,000.00
_____________________________________________________________
Charge Detail:
HS11377. (a) Except as authorized by law and as other wise provided in subdivision (b) or Section 11375, or in Article 7 (commencing with Section 4211) of Chapter 9 of Division 2 of the Business and Professions Code, every person who possesses any controlled substance which is (1) classified in Schedule III, IV, or V, and which is not a narcotic drug, (2) specified in subdivision (d) of Section 11054, except paragraphs (13), (14), (15), and (20) of subdivision (d), (3) specified in paragraph (11) of subdivision (c) of Section 11056, (4) specified in paragraph (2) or (3) of subdivision (f) of Section 11054, or (5) specified in subdivision (d), (e), or (f) of Section 11055, unless upon the prescription of a physician, dentist, podiatrist, or veterinarian, licensed to practice in this state, shall be punished by imprisonment in a county jail for a period of not more than one year or in the state prison.
______________________________
Quick Facts Did you know...
The Grand Terrace City Council receives $400 in monthly salary and health insurance.
Often the Co-Pay portion of Medical Expences is covered by voucher... for Council Members and City Management...
Often the Co-Pay portion of Medical Expences is covered by voucher... for Council Members and City Management...
Sunday, September 25, 2005
Arrest #9
BOOKING NUMBER: 0509301311
DATE: 09/24/2005 TIME: 1924
ARREST DATE: 09/24/2005 TIME: 1841
LOC: 22196 MCCLARREN
AGENCY: GRANDTERRACE CITY
RELEASE DATE: 09/25/2005
TIME: 0106 FACILITY:
NAME: LAST: STIFF FIRST: RONALD MIDDLE: JASON
DOB: 11/11/1973 SEX: M
RACE: W HT: 6 00 WT: 220 HAIR: BLN EYE COLOR: BLU
OCCUPATION: HVY EQPT MECH
CHARGE TYPE SUPPL/HOLD BAIL DISPOSITION
PC647(F) MISD ORIGINAL NO BAIL CITE-REL
______________________________________________________________
Charge Detail
PC647(f) Who is found in any public place under the influence of intoxicating liquor, any drug, controlled substance, toluene, or any combination of any intoxicating liquor, drug, controlled substance, or toluene, in a condition that he or she is unable to exercise carefor his or her own safety or the safety of others, or by reason of his or her being under the influence of intoxicating liquor, anydrug, controlled substance, toluene, or any combination of any intoxicating liquor, drug, or toluene, interferes with or obstructs or prevents the free use of any street, sidewalk, or other public way.
DATE: 09/24/2005 TIME: 1924
ARREST DATE: 09/24/2005 TIME: 1841
LOC: 22196 MCCLARREN
AGENCY: GRANDTERRACE CITY
RELEASE DATE: 09/25/2005
TIME: 0106 FACILITY:
NAME: LAST: STIFF FIRST: RONALD MIDDLE: JASON
DOB: 11/11/1973 SEX: M
RACE: W HT: 6 00 WT: 220 HAIR: BLN EYE COLOR: BLU
OCCUPATION: HVY EQPT MECH
CHARGE TYPE SUPPL/HOLD BAIL DISPOSITION
PC647(F) MISD ORIGINAL NO BAIL CITE-REL
______________________________________________________________
Charge Detail
PC647(f) Who is found in any public place under the influence of intoxicating liquor, any drug, controlled substance, toluene, or any combination of any intoxicating liquor, drug, controlled substance, or toluene, in a condition that he or she is unable to exercise carefor his or her own safety or the safety of others, or by reason of his or her being under the influence of intoxicating liquor, anydrug, controlled substance, toluene, or any combination of any intoxicating liquor, drug, or toluene, interferes with or obstructs or prevents the free use of any street, sidewalk, or other public way.
NEXT PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING TO BE HELD
ON OCTOBER 20, 2005
Has the City Council, the Planning Department or the Planning Commision looked at the GT High School Plans so they can respond regarding any issues the "City" may want to bring to the Board of Education?
Like the Overlap of plans regarding Pico Park, the OAC, the Electric Power Plant being restarted. Or how about the Traffic, and the upcoming freeway construction...
Shouldn't all these fit neatly together, before the ink is dry??? on any one of the plans.????
ON OCTOBER 20, 2005
Has the City Council, the Planning Department or the Planning Commision looked at the GT High School Plans so they can respond regarding any issues the "City" may want to bring to the Board of Education?
Like the Overlap of plans regarding Pico Park, the OAC, the Electric Power Plant being restarted. Or how about the Traffic, and the upcoming freeway construction...
Shouldn't all these fit neatly together, before the ink is dry??? on any one of the plans.????
Saturday, September 24, 2005
Sun Telegram Reporter Wrong about GT Fireworks
Article Last Updated: 9/23/2005 09:32 PM
GT decides not to ban legal firework sales
Stephen Wall, Staff Writer
San Bernardino County Sun
Responce to the Above Article:
The City Council Discussion on the Topic of Fireworks did not resolve to "Not Ban Legal Fireworks Sales" It resolved to form a committee to study the subject on how to best resolve the needs for funding, law enforcement, and safety on the topic of Fireworks and Firework Sales in Grand Terrace.
Yes, the members of the Fireworks sales and the sports teams were well represented. However, Facts were missing. The number of REAL calls from Citizens reporting miss use of fireworks, safe and sane or the illegal insane variety. The REAL number of calls to the Fire Department were not presented.
The Opinion of the City Manager is that Law Enforcement is unable to enforce the laws in Grand Terrace weather or not we ban Legal or illegal Fireworks was expressed. How Profound is that concept. His facts or suggestion of facts only two small brush fires of no significances was a serious misrepresentation of the actual calls for assistance that week. Let's hope he is just not informed, rather than the idea he is purposely misrepresenting the FACTs.. oh that would be lying...
that could't be possible he would do that..
From Email InBox:
The Capt. that put the fire out behind our house told me they were running from fireworks fire to fireworks fire. Remember that night it took several minutes to get through to dispatch because the F.D. was so busy.
GT decides not to ban legal firework sales
Stephen Wall, Staff Writer
San Bernardino County Sun
Responce to the Above Article:
The City Council Discussion on the Topic of Fireworks did not resolve to "Not Ban Legal Fireworks Sales" It resolved to form a committee to study the subject on how to best resolve the needs for funding, law enforcement, and safety on the topic of Fireworks and Firework Sales in Grand Terrace.
Yes, the members of the Fireworks sales and the sports teams were well represented. However, Facts were missing. The number of REAL calls from Citizens reporting miss use of fireworks, safe and sane or the illegal insane variety. The REAL number of calls to the Fire Department were not presented.
The Opinion of the City Manager is that Law Enforcement is unable to enforce the laws in Grand Terrace weather or not we ban Legal or illegal Fireworks was expressed. How Profound is that concept. His facts or suggestion of facts only two small brush fires of no significances was a serious misrepresentation of the actual calls for assistance that week. Let's hope he is just not informed, rather than the idea he is purposely misrepresenting the FACTs.. oh that would be lying...
that could't be possible he would do that..
From Email InBox:
The Capt. that put the fire out behind our house told me they were running from fireworks fire to fireworks fire. Remember that night it took several minutes to get through to dispatch because the F.D. was so busy.
GT High School Full Report Available by Email Request
I will send the PDF file of 8 pages to anyone requesting it... Please email your request to GrandTerraceNews@yahoo.com with the request for the GT HIGH SCHOOL Report Request in the Subject Line.
Comment from a friend
"I can't see them putting the High School in next to the power plant and GT gave the power co more acres to expand, there is also some problem where direct towing is..at one time there was some kind of plate metal plant or something and the ground is contaminated, not even a parking lot can be put over it, so there will be this space in the middle of the high school."
More Comments from Email:
I have no problem with the school. I think that they should have consulted with the families on Royal whose homes are up against the fields. It looks like the baseball diamonds at Pico Park are to be taken over and the parking there also. The folks on Pico report a lot of drug activity there. I guess it will become a hang spot for the high schoolers. We don't have enough day time cops for this and there is no mention of school police who are Colton PD not County Deputies.
IS There going to be busing from other areas. It sounds like the school plans and the OAC plan might conflict with each other.
The schools $100,000,000 over 60 acres, thats a good chunk of change per acre considering there will be over a thousand parking spaces.
Arrest #8
BOOKING NUMBER: 0509301184
DATE: 09/22/2005 TIME: 1820
ARREST DATE: 09/22/2005 TIME: 1725
LOC: PICO ST/DARWIN AVE GT
AGENCY: GRANDTERRACE CITY
RELEASE DATE: 09/23/2005 TIME: 0219
FACILITY:
NAME: LAST: QUINTERO FIRST: LUIS MIDDLE:
DOB: 12/11/1981 SEX: M RACE: H HT: 5 08 WT: 145 HAIR: MUL EYE COLOR: BRO
OCCUPATION: UNEMPLOYED
CHARGE TYPE SUPPL/HOLD BAIL DISPOSITION
VC12500(A) MISD ORIGINAL $26,000.00 MISD-WARRANT
______________________________________________________
Charge Detail
VC12500. (a) A person may not drive a motor vehicle upon a highway, unless the person then holds a valid driver's license issued under this code, except those persons who are expressly exempted under this code.
____________________________________
DATE: 09/22/2005 TIME: 1820
ARREST DATE: 09/22/2005 TIME: 1725
LOC: PICO ST/DARWIN AVE GT
AGENCY: GRANDTERRACE CITY
RELEASE DATE: 09/23/2005 TIME: 0219
FACILITY:
NAME: LAST: QUINTERO FIRST: LUIS MIDDLE:
DOB: 12/11/1981 SEX: M RACE: H HT: 5 08 WT: 145 HAIR: MUL EYE COLOR: BRO
OCCUPATION: UNEMPLOYED
CHARGE TYPE SUPPL/HOLD BAIL DISPOSITION
VC12500(A) MISD ORIGINAL $26,000.00 MISD-WARRANT
______________________________________________________
Charge Detail
VC12500. (a) A person may not drive a motor vehicle upon a highway, unless the person then holds a valid driver's license issued under this code, except those persons who are expressly exempted under this code.
____________________________________
Thursday, September 22, 2005
City Signs Lease with Corporation for Better Housing
Management Fees
Finance Reporting Fees
CBH Fees for Oversight and Reports
On Sight Manager
On Sight Services
Full Time Facilities Person
We (GT) Provide Land for 65 years, and Spend 8.4 Million, and get what back in taxes?
A NO BID CONTRACT for 65 years... THAT IS WHAT WE GET.
Finance Reporting Fees
CBH Fees for Oversight and Reports
On Sight Manager
On Sight Services
Full Time Facilities Person
We (GT) Provide Land for 65 years, and Spend 8.4 Million, and get what back in taxes?
A NO BID CONTRACT for 65 years... THAT IS WHAT WE GET.
GRAND TERRACE SEX OFFENDERS AVAILABLE DATA
http://meganslaw.ca.gov/
This will take you to a list of Registered Sex Offenders in Grand Terrace... in about three or four steps... Some times the site will not work,,, just come back later...
This will take you to a list of Registered Sex Offenders in Grand Terrace... in about three or four steps... Some times the site will not work,,, just come back later...
Dragnet Misses Target UPDATED
UPDATED
The Sun Telegram added this news coverage. The reporting of the events seems to add to the confusion of the facts. For Example.. Isn't a Carjacking a crime where the driver/owner is in the Car being stolen, isn't this different from a man breaking into a car? Is there a MUG Shot of the fellow, a last known address? Isn't this a time when a reverse 911 call to notify the citizens to lock doors, look out for a suspect and who to call in the event a stranger is seen? Also isn't this the time where a reverse 911 call to parents to say your child is safe at the school do not come to campus at this time, could be used to reassure parents in the community?
Article Last Updated: 9/22/2005 10:36 PM
Crime and Public Safety
Staff Reports
San Bernardino County Sun
GRAND TERRACE Parolee gets away following pursuit
A parolee led authorities on a chase early Thursday after carjacking a woman, sheriff's officials said.
Deputies were searching for the man, Tito Perez, 32, who is considered armed and dangerous, said Jodi Miller, sheriff's spokeswoman.
About 6:30 a.m., a woman called authorities to alert them that someone was breaking into her car. The man took some money and clothing from the car, officials said.
He then took off in her vehicle at Mount Vernon Avenue in Grand Terrace, and hit a fire hydrant at Eton and Minona drives. He got out and fled on foot, leading to a several-hour search, said sheriff's spokeswoman Robin Haynal.
Authorities had not caught him as of 5 p.m. Thursday.
OLD BLOG Post:
City Manager Tom Schwab was pressed to explain the law enforcement activity taking place September 22, 2005 during the City Council Meeting on that same date.
He explained, there was a suspected parolee from a case from Colton in Grand Terrace. This person was sighted, and stopped, gave a false identification to the stopping officer, and while the officer was getting the check on the ID, the suspect fled, driving his own car, and eventually causing a car verses cement wall collision. The suspect abandoned his vehicle and ran and hid and apparently escaped the efforts to arrest him.
City Manager Tom Schwab indicated that there was law enforcement support from Loma Linda and of course the helicopter was in flight overhead.
City Manager Tom Schwab indicated that Law Enforcement Knows for whom they are searching. Yet City Manager Tom Schwab did not include the suspects name, or description in his telling of the facts. City Manager Tom Schwab did not indicate the nature of the past crimes for which the suspect is currently on parole.
What is the result of the lack of the City Sharing Factual Information.
One Speaker identified the providing of Low and Moderate Income Housing as a cause for "UNDESIRABLE" being in Grand Terrace. "Such Developments encourage murders and sex offenders to Live in Grand Terrace"
Email Reports of this mornings activities include gardeners being interviewed and scrutinized. Cars being searched. The Elementary School Being Locked Down. A house being broken into and robbed of jewelry and clothing leaving behind muddy foot prints.
So WHO are we looking for? What was his past crime? How long did it take for the second and third cars to arrive in support of our limited enforcement resources?
This is not the first dragnet in this city to fail to catch its target.
The Sun Telegram added this news coverage. The reporting of the events seems to add to the confusion of the facts. For Example.. Isn't a Carjacking a crime where the driver/owner is in the Car being stolen, isn't this different from a man breaking into a car? Is there a MUG Shot of the fellow, a last known address? Isn't this a time when a reverse 911 call to notify the citizens to lock doors, look out for a suspect and who to call in the event a stranger is seen? Also isn't this the time where a reverse 911 call to parents to say your child is safe at the school do not come to campus at this time, could be used to reassure parents in the community?
Article Last Updated: 9/22/2005 10:36 PM
Crime and Public Safety
Staff Reports
San Bernardino County Sun
GRAND TERRACE Parolee gets away following pursuit
A parolee led authorities on a chase early Thursday after carjacking a woman, sheriff's officials said.
Deputies were searching for the man, Tito Perez, 32, who is considered armed and dangerous, said Jodi Miller, sheriff's spokeswoman.
About 6:30 a.m., a woman called authorities to alert them that someone was breaking into her car. The man took some money and clothing from the car, officials said.
He then took off in her vehicle at Mount Vernon Avenue in Grand Terrace, and hit a fire hydrant at Eton and Minona drives. He got out and fled on foot, leading to a several-hour search, said sheriff's spokeswoman Robin Haynal.
Authorities had not caught him as of 5 p.m. Thursday.
OLD BLOG Post:
City Manager Tom Schwab was pressed to explain the law enforcement activity taking place September 22, 2005 during the City Council Meeting on that same date.
He explained, there was a suspected parolee from a case from Colton in Grand Terrace. This person was sighted, and stopped, gave a false identification to the stopping officer, and while the officer was getting the check on the ID, the suspect fled, driving his own car, and eventually causing a car verses cement wall collision. The suspect abandoned his vehicle and ran and hid and apparently escaped the efforts to arrest him.
City Manager Tom Schwab indicated that there was law enforcement support from Loma Linda and of course the helicopter was in flight overhead.
City Manager Tom Schwab indicated that Law Enforcement Knows for whom they are searching. Yet City Manager Tom Schwab did not include the suspects name, or description in his telling of the facts. City Manager Tom Schwab did not indicate the nature of the past crimes for which the suspect is currently on parole.
What is the result of the lack of the City Sharing Factual Information.
One Speaker identified the providing of Low and Moderate Income Housing as a cause for "UNDESIRABLE" being in Grand Terrace. "Such Developments encourage murders and sex offenders to Live in Grand Terrace"
Email Reports of this mornings activities include gardeners being interviewed and scrutinized. Cars being searched. The Elementary School Being Locked Down. A house being broken into and robbed of jewelry and clothing leaving behind muddy foot prints.
So WHO are we looking for? What was his past crime? How long did it take for the second and third cars to arrive in support of our limited enforcement resources?
This is not the first dragnet in this city to fail to catch its target.
Arrest #7
BOOKING NUMBER: 0509301099
DATE: 09/21/2005 TIME: 0408
ARREST DATE: 09/21/2005 TIME: 0145
LOC: BARTON / MT VERNON, GRT
AGENCY: GRANDTERRACE CITY
RELEASE DATE: 09/21/2005 TIME: 1133
FACILITY:
NAME:
LAST: GRILLO FIRST: CHRISTOPHE MIDDLE: JAMES
DOB: 10/08/1965 SEX: M
RACE: W HT: 5 08 WT: 160 HAIR: BRO EYE COLOR: BRO
OCCUPATION: INSTALLER
CHARGE TYPE SUPPL/HOLD BAIL DISPOSITION
HS11364 MISD ORIGINAL NO BAIL CITE-REL
HS11550(A) MISD ORIGINAL
VC23152(A) MISD ORIGINAL
_________________________________________________
Charge Detail
HS 11364. (a) It is unlawful to possess an opium pipe or any device, contrivance, instrument, or paraphernalia used for unlawfully injecting or smoking (1) a controlled substance specified in subdivision (b), (c), or (e), or paragraph (1) of subdivision (f) of Section 11054, specified in paragraph (14), (15), or (20) of subdivision (d) of Section 11054, specified in subdivision (b) or (c) of Section 11055, or specified in paragraph (2) of subdivision (d) of Section 11055, or (2) a controlled substance which is a narcotic drug classified in Schedule III, IV, or V.
HS11550. (a) No person shall use, or be under the influence of any controlled substance which is (1) specified in subdivision (b), (c),or (e), or paragraph (1) of subdivision (f) of Section 11054,specified in paragraph (14), (15), (21), (22), or (23) of subdivision (d) of Section 11054, specified in subdivision (b) or (c) of Section 11055, or specified in paragraph (1) or (2) of subdivision (d) or inparagraph (3) of subdivision (e) of Section 11055, or (2) a narcoticdrug classified in Schedule III, IV, or V, except when administered by or under the direction of a person licensed by the state to dispense, prescribe, or administer controlled substances. It shall be the burden of the defense to show that it comes within the exception. Any person convicted of violating this subdivision is guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be sentenced to serve a term of not less than 90 days or more than one year in a county jail. The courtmay place a person convicted under this subdivision on probation for a period not to exceed five years and, except as provided insubdivision (c), shall in all cases in which probation is granted require, as a condition thereof, that the person be confined in acounty jail for at least 90 days. Other than as provided by subdivision (c), in no event shall the court have the power to absolve a person who violates this subdivision from the obligation of spending at least 90 days in confinement in a county jail.
VC23152. (a) It is unlawful for any person who is under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or drug, or under the combined influence of any alcoholic beverage and drug, to drive a vehicle.
DATE: 09/21/2005 TIME: 0408
ARREST DATE: 09/21/2005 TIME: 0145
LOC: BARTON / MT VERNON, GRT
AGENCY: GRANDTERRACE CITY
RELEASE DATE: 09/21/2005 TIME: 1133
FACILITY:
NAME:
LAST: GRILLO FIRST: CHRISTOPHE MIDDLE: JAMES
DOB: 10/08/1965 SEX: M
RACE: W HT: 5 08 WT: 160 HAIR: BRO EYE COLOR: BRO
OCCUPATION: INSTALLER
CHARGE TYPE SUPPL/HOLD BAIL DISPOSITION
HS11364 MISD ORIGINAL NO BAIL CITE-REL
HS11550(A) MISD ORIGINAL
VC23152(A) MISD ORIGINAL
_________________________________________________
Charge Detail
HS 11364. (a) It is unlawful to possess an opium pipe or any device, contrivance, instrument, or paraphernalia used for unlawfully injecting or smoking (1) a controlled substance specified in subdivision (b), (c), or (e), or paragraph (1) of subdivision (f) of Section 11054, specified in paragraph (14), (15), or (20) of subdivision (d) of Section 11054, specified in subdivision (b) or (c) of Section 11055, or specified in paragraph (2) of subdivision (d) of Section 11055, or (2) a controlled substance which is a narcotic drug classified in Schedule III, IV, or V.
HS11550. (a) No person shall use, or be under the influence of any controlled substance which is (1) specified in subdivision (b), (c),or (e), or paragraph (1) of subdivision (f) of Section 11054,specified in paragraph (14), (15), (21), (22), or (23) of subdivision (d) of Section 11054, specified in subdivision (b) or (c) of Section 11055, or specified in paragraph (1) or (2) of subdivision (d) or inparagraph (3) of subdivision (e) of Section 11055, or (2) a narcoticdrug classified in Schedule III, IV, or V, except when administered by or under the direction of a person licensed by the state to dispense, prescribe, or administer controlled substances. It shall be the burden of the defense to show that it comes within the exception. Any person convicted of violating this subdivision is guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be sentenced to serve a term of not less than 90 days or more than one year in a county jail. The courtmay place a person convicted under this subdivision on probation for a period not to exceed five years and, except as provided insubdivision (c), shall in all cases in which probation is granted require, as a condition thereof, that the person be confined in acounty jail for at least 90 days. Other than as provided by subdivision (c), in no event shall the court have the power to absolve a person who violates this subdivision from the obligation of spending at least 90 days in confinement in a county jail.
VC23152. (a) It is unlawful for any person who is under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or drug, or under the combined influence of any alcoholic beverage and drug, to drive a vehicle.
Political Signs on PRIVATE PROPERTY
The City Attorney informed the City Council that the courts do not support any city's ability to restrict free political speech, including posting political signs on private property.
Code Enforcement Efforts to REMOVE Campaign Signs from Private Property has taken place in recent weeks.
PERHAPS the CITY will RESPECT AT LEAST THIS RIGHT OF A CITIZEN AND THEIR USE OF THEIR PROPERTY.
Council Member Miller perhaps should read an old saying....."If thine eye offends thee, pluck it out"
Code Enforcement Efforts to REMOVE Campaign Signs from Private Property has taken place in recent weeks.
PERHAPS the CITY will RESPECT AT LEAST THIS RIGHT OF A CITIZEN AND THEIR USE OF THEIR PROPERTY.
Council Member Miller perhaps should read an old saying....."If thine eye offends thee, pluck it out"
Firework Policy Review Flawed
The City Staff failed to be adequately prepared to support intelligent discussion on the issue of Fireworks in this city.
Why was there no report to the Council the ACTUAL calls into the Sheriff over the 7 day period inclusive of the 4th of July, demonstrating the need for more or less enforcement.
Why was there no official report from the Fire Department, Emergency Operations, or Crime Prevention committee regarding the real number of fires, and complaints of neighbors shooting fireworks into the public street or neighbors yard?
No instead, we got the same old we need the money for baseball and soccer. How is it we didn't get informed that the amount of money spent on trophies is greater than the amount earned by fire work sales. Are the sports teams, and city insured to pay for the house that is burned down by a safe and sane firework?
Provide a Safe dump space to collect the illegal fireworks.
Provide city ordinances which will confiscate fireworks used improperly, illegal fireworks, and the houses and cars used in the storage and use of the items. Sell the houses and cars at an auction to off set costs of enforcement, and property and personal damage caused by fireworks.
IF the City MUST have Fireworks, they should host with the Sports team a city wide 4th of July event, where there is a designated site to light the safe and sane fireworks purchased on that same site. NO Fireworks should be allowed to leave the site and be in HOMES in Grand Terrace. The teams could host the event and sale concessions, and provide a fund raiser alternative to 4th of July Drunken Fire Fest we now have. No Child, Animal, or sober person feels safe under the current rules of engagement during the 4th. How is it we allow this terroristic activity because it pays for trophies. (This information is available on the Little League's 990 Tax Form). If trophies are discontinued expense item, the sale of Fireworks can be avoided.
Yes, this issue needs Real INPUT and alternatives to the current status quo.
Why was there no report to the Council the ACTUAL calls into the Sheriff over the 7 day period inclusive of the 4th of July, demonstrating the need for more or less enforcement.
Why was there no official report from the Fire Department, Emergency Operations, or Crime Prevention committee regarding the real number of fires, and complaints of neighbors shooting fireworks into the public street or neighbors yard?
No instead, we got the same old we need the money for baseball and soccer. How is it we didn't get informed that the amount of money spent on trophies is greater than the amount earned by fire work sales. Are the sports teams, and city insured to pay for the house that is burned down by a safe and sane firework?
Provide a Safe dump space to collect the illegal fireworks.
Provide city ordinances which will confiscate fireworks used improperly, illegal fireworks, and the houses and cars used in the storage and use of the items. Sell the houses and cars at an auction to off set costs of enforcement, and property and personal damage caused by fireworks.
IF the City MUST have Fireworks, they should host with the Sports team a city wide 4th of July event, where there is a designated site to light the safe and sane fireworks purchased on that same site. NO Fireworks should be allowed to leave the site and be in HOMES in Grand Terrace. The teams could host the event and sale concessions, and provide a fund raiser alternative to 4th of July Drunken Fire Fest we now have. No Child, Animal, or sober person feels safe under the current rules of engagement during the 4th. How is it we allow this terroristic activity because it pays for trophies. (This information is available on the Little League's 990 Tax Form). If trophies are discontinued expense item, the sale of Fireworks can be avoided.
Yes, this issue needs Real INPUT and alternatives to the current status quo.
City Manager Tom Schwab's Comments Raise Questions
City Manager Tom Schwab stated that it was not a failure in the procedure to have the City Council vote on an issue coming from the Planning Committee with in 7 days of its approval by Planning Committee.
His reasoning was this. The purpose of the appeals process was to allow an item passed by the Planning Commission to be brought to the Agenda of the City Council within a 10 day period of appeal. He stated that because of issues involved the matter was brought to the City Council automatically.
The flaw in this reasoning is that a citizen may have thought of a reason to appeal on day 8, 9, or 10 beyond the reasons the City Council's concerns or actions on day 7. Therefore has not the citizens right to appeal an action been unjustly truncated by 3 days under the Schwab interpretation?
To add to the citizens concerns is the city's lawyer cutting off any potential public comment on the items on the agenda getting a "Second Reading". Why on earth have a second reading if the public has no chance of making a final appeal to the council before an ordinance is final. A 20,000,000.00 Development Project with a zone change, and General Plan Change, and a 65 year commitment is worthy of public discussion. Now we at least know that if we are interested in making a "PUBLIC COMMENT" on an agenda item that is a "SECOND READING" to do so during "PUBLIC COMMENT" section of the meeting. Generalize the issue and "Relate it to the Agenda Item getting the "Second Reading".
Council Member Miller gets a "Do Over" on his vote. Why on earth aren't the citizens of Grand Terrace given half as much consideration.
Regarding Crime, and Law Enforcement and Reporting In Grand Terrace.
It takes the WILL of the COUNCIL to Demand that the Dispatchers Log related to calls originating from GT be made available for posting either on this blog, or on their web page.
It takes the WILL of the COUNCIL to Demand to know the response time to Calls.
It takes the Will of the COUNCIL to Demand to know the number of UNRESOLVED cases of reported crimes.
Sex Offenders can be located on the sheriff's Web Page.
Actual Arrests can be located on the Sheriff's Web Page.
However, the real meat and potato issues and data regarding crime is not available. Calls in, response Time, Resolved Cases.
Finally, it would be nice to be able to know how the Cases making it to court are resolved. One can dream.
His reasoning was this. The purpose of the appeals process was to allow an item passed by the Planning Commission to be brought to the Agenda of the City Council within a 10 day period of appeal. He stated that because of issues involved the matter was brought to the City Council automatically.
The flaw in this reasoning is that a citizen may have thought of a reason to appeal on day 8, 9, or 10 beyond the reasons the City Council's concerns or actions on day 7. Therefore has not the citizens right to appeal an action been unjustly truncated by 3 days under the Schwab interpretation?
To add to the citizens concerns is the city's lawyer cutting off any potential public comment on the items on the agenda getting a "Second Reading". Why on earth have a second reading if the public has no chance of making a final appeal to the council before an ordinance is final. A 20,000,000.00 Development Project with a zone change, and General Plan Change, and a 65 year commitment is worthy of public discussion. Now we at least know that if we are interested in making a "PUBLIC COMMENT" on an agenda item that is a "SECOND READING" to do so during "PUBLIC COMMENT" section of the meeting. Generalize the issue and "Relate it to the Agenda Item getting the "Second Reading".
Council Member Miller gets a "Do Over" on his vote. Why on earth aren't the citizens of Grand Terrace given half as much consideration.
Regarding Crime, and Law Enforcement and Reporting In Grand Terrace.
It takes the WILL of the COUNCIL to Demand that the Dispatchers Log related to calls originating from GT be made available for posting either on this blog, or on their web page.
It takes the WILL of the COUNCIL to Demand to know the response time to Calls.
It takes the Will of the COUNCIL to Demand to know the number of UNRESOLVED cases of reported crimes.
Sex Offenders can be located on the sheriff's Web Page.
Actual Arrests can be located on the Sheriff's Web Page.
However, the real meat and potato issues and data regarding crime is not available. Calls in, response Time, Resolved Cases.
Finally, it would be nice to be able to know how the Cases making it to court are resolved. One can dream.
IS GT DAYS WORTH IT?
Partial Information on GT Days Contributors:"Title Sponsors are $7500, the Press was in-kind for $6,500, Corporate sponsors are $1000, blue Mountain are $500, community sponsors are $250, some were in-kind in lieu of money." (Provided by City Sources)
TITLE SPONSORSJACOBSEN FAMILY HOLDINGS LLC $7,500.00
THE PRESS-ENTERPRISE (IN KIND $6,500.00 advertising)
THANK YOU TO OUR CORPORATE SPONSORS
Each Donated $1,000.00( 10 x 1,000.00 = Sub Total of $10,000.00)
Arrowhead Credit Union
Bartel Heating & Air
California Skate
Fritts Ford
Grand Terrace Lions Club
Roquet Paving
Terra Loma Real Estate
Waste Management $ 1,331.00 (Toilet/sink donations)
Used Oil GRANT $ 1,574.35 (Paid by Used Oil Grant)
Wilden Pump
THANK YOU TO OUR BLUE MOUNTAIN SPONSORS
(Each Donated 500.00)(11 x 500.00 = 5,500.00)
Barry Lee O' Connor, Terrace Town Center
Colton Disposal Materials Recovery Facility
Southern California Edison
Chicago Title
Houston Harris
Inland Party Supply
Jazz's Party Charm
Nolte Engineering
Terrace Homes, Inc.
The Brook
Ticor Title
THANK YOU TO OUR COMMUNITY SPONSORS(250.00 or In Kind Contribution of that Value)
(16 x 250.00 = 4,000.00)
180 Sports Drink
Frank & Maryetta Ferre
Grand Terrace Real Estate
Grand Terrace Seniors
Jaguar Computers
Mr. TV Video
Supervisor Dennis Hansberger
Tony & Ann Petta
Traffic Operations
Blue Mountain Real Estate
Stonewood Construction
Riverside Highland Water
San Bernardino County Sheriff
Bobbie K Forbes, Realtor
Friends for Burt Seuylemezian Candidate for CUSB #3 District
San Bernardino County Fire Department Household Hazardous Waste
$ 7,500.00 (Jacobsen Development)
$ 6,500.00 (In Kind Press)
$ 9,000.00 (Corporate Sponsors)
$ 5,000.00 (Blue Mt. Sponsors)$ 4,000.00 (Community Sponsors)
$ 33,574.35 ESTIMATED Total Contributions for the GT DAYS FUND
$ 789.00 Insurance (Event Insurance)
Decorations
$ 300.00 Kidzone games/prizes (Walmart, Oriental Trading, 99 cent store)
$ 0.00 Stage Area/Gunfight Show
$ 500.00 Balloons (Festival area) (Jan from Balloon Team of GT)
Rentals
$ 1,331.00 Vendor sinks/portable toilets (Donated by WM a City Contracted Service)
$ 4,830.00 Stage/sound system Studio 33 of Colton
$ 3,361.00 Tables/chairs/canopies JZ Party Charm and Inland
Party supply
$ 0.00 Golf Carts/gator (What is the value of this item?)
$ 130.00 Radio Rentals Vendor out of Palm desert
$ 950.00 Rock Wall for Kidzone Vendor our of San Diego
$ 1,800.00 Jumpers/Inflatables for Kidzone (20% of sales Vendor out of Colton
Entertainment
$ 500.00 Little Ricky (donated to a non-profit media group for kids)
$ 200.00 JAB Band Local GT Band
$ 59.00 Watermelon contest
$ 350.00 Law N Ladies Local gunfight club
$ 350.00 Dennis Forel (balloon artist/turn of century bicyclist)
Promotional Materials
$ 595.00 Signs/banners (includes parade)Arron signs of Riverside City-wide
$ 1,574.35 Resident Mailing (paid by CIWMB Used Oil Program) printed Accent Print of GT
$ 250.00 Inland Empire Ad
$ 6,500.00 Value of PE "Donation In KIND"
Awards
$ 759.00 Parade winners Trophy Awards of Riverside Watermelon Contest
$ 130.00 Winners
$ 525.00 Kidzone Prizes
$ 250.00 Sony Playstaton PSP Internet purchase pricegrabbers.com
$ 1,000.00 Band Competition Winner
Parade
$ 472.00 Fans (I Love GT handouts) vendor out of the midwest
$ 4,000.00 Band Stipends ($1000 ea marching band to cover bus costs)
$ 300.00 Magnetic Signs (for cars) Aaron Signs of Riverside
$ 500.00 Bagpipe Band UCR Band
$ 50.00 Parade Candy Walmart
$ 20.00 Judges Supplies
$ 18.00 Parade Music
Security
$ 375.00 Seibert Security of Colton
Beverages (FOR WHO?)
$ 230.00 water/soda
$ 61.00 Ice
$ 25.00 Snacks
$ 71.00 Event Prep/Set-up (BY WHO)?
Photography
$ 647.00 Peter Phun Riverside photographer
$ 200.00 DH Video/DVD Productions Local soccer supporter (UNNAMED)
Supplies/Materials
$ 371.00 Home Depot
$ 76.00 Traffic Specialties (parking signs)
$ 125.00 Event Staff Uniforms catalogue
$ 19.00 Sign prep fee
$ 350.00 Misc
$ 34 843.35 Total Cost and Value of Expenses
NOT INCLUDING GT EMPLOYEE'S TIME And VOLUNTEER HOURS. UNABLE TO CALCULATE LABOR COST DUE TO A LACK OF REAL DATA.
Community Services Officer (Law Enforcement Funds?)
GT days we have 5 maintenance crew members that are on overtime averaging $18 per hour for about 5-7 hours each.... ($ 600.00 )
Assistant City Manager 40 hours Salaried Employee
Code Enforcement Office Barrie Bowens
2-3 other city staff (salaried--no overtime UNIDENTIFIED)
40 Volunteers UNPAID
IF THERE are Any remaining funds are left in the GT Days Account for next year. These funds do not co-mingle with the General Fund or any other fund without authorization from the GT Days Committee.
TITLE SPONSORSJACOBSEN FAMILY HOLDINGS LLC $7,500.00
THE PRESS-ENTERPRISE (IN KIND $6,500.00 advertising)
THANK YOU TO OUR CORPORATE SPONSORS
Each Donated $1,000.00( 10 x 1,000.00 = Sub Total of $10,000.00)
Arrowhead Credit Union
Bartel Heating & Air
California Skate
Fritts Ford
Grand Terrace Lions Club
Roquet Paving
Terra Loma Real Estate
Waste Management $ 1,331.00 (Toilet/sink donations)
Used Oil GRANT $ 1,574.35 (Paid by Used Oil Grant)
Wilden Pump
THANK YOU TO OUR BLUE MOUNTAIN SPONSORS
(Each Donated 500.00)(11 x 500.00 = 5,500.00)
Barry Lee O' Connor, Terrace Town Center
Colton Disposal Materials Recovery Facility
Southern California Edison
Chicago Title
Houston Harris
Inland Party Supply
Jazz's Party Charm
Nolte Engineering
Terrace Homes, Inc.
The Brook
Ticor Title
THANK YOU TO OUR COMMUNITY SPONSORS(250.00 or In Kind Contribution of that Value)
(16 x 250.00 = 4,000.00)
180 Sports Drink
Frank & Maryetta Ferre
Grand Terrace Real Estate
Grand Terrace Seniors
Jaguar Computers
Mr. TV Video
Supervisor Dennis Hansberger
Tony & Ann Petta
Traffic Operations
Blue Mountain Real Estate
Stonewood Construction
Riverside Highland Water
San Bernardino County Sheriff
Bobbie K Forbes, Realtor
Friends for Burt Seuylemezian Candidate for CUSB #3 District
San Bernardino County Fire Department Household Hazardous Waste
$ 7,500.00 (Jacobsen Development)
$ 6,500.00 (In Kind Press)
$ 9,000.00 (Corporate Sponsors)
$ 5,000.00 (Blue Mt. Sponsors)$ 4,000.00 (Community Sponsors)
$ 33,574.35 ESTIMATED Total Contributions for the GT DAYS FUND
(NOTE THE ABOVE FIGURES ARE NOT EXACT AMOUNTS OF CONTRIBUTIONS THIS INFORMATION HAS NOT BEEN PROVIDED TO THAT DETAIL)
GRAND TERRACE DAYS 2005 PROGRAM EXPENSES
GRAND TERRACE DAYS 2005 PROGRAM EXPENSES
$ 789.00 Insurance (Event Insurance)
Decorations
$ 300.00 Kidzone games/prizes (Walmart, Oriental Trading, 99 cent store)
$ 0.00 Stage Area/Gunfight Show
$ 500.00 Balloons (Festival area) (Jan from Balloon Team of GT)
Rentals
$ 1,331.00 Vendor sinks/portable toilets (Donated by WM a City Contracted Service)
$ 4,830.00 Stage/sound system Studio 33 of Colton
$ 3,361.00 Tables/chairs/canopies JZ Party Charm and Inland
Party supply
$ 0.00 Golf Carts/gator (What is the value of this item?)
$ 130.00 Radio Rentals Vendor out of Palm desert
$ 950.00 Rock Wall for Kidzone Vendor our of San Diego
$ 1,800.00 Jumpers/Inflatables for Kidzone (20% of sales Vendor out of Colton
Entertainment
$ 500.00 Little Ricky (donated to a non-profit media group for kids)
$ 200.00 JAB Band Local GT Band
$ 59.00 Watermelon contest
$ 350.00 Law N Ladies Local gunfight club
$ 350.00 Dennis Forel (balloon artist/turn of century bicyclist)
Promotional Materials
$ 595.00 Signs/banners (includes parade)Arron signs of Riverside City-wide
$ 1,574.35 Resident Mailing (paid by CIWMB Used Oil Program) printed Accent Print of GT
$ 250.00 Inland Empire Ad
$ 6,500.00 Value of PE "Donation In KIND"
Awards
$ 759.00 Parade winners Trophy Awards of Riverside Watermelon Contest
$ 130.00 Winners
$ 525.00 Kidzone Prizes
$ 250.00 Sony Playstaton PSP Internet purchase pricegrabbers.com
$ 1,000.00 Band Competition Winner
Parade
$ 472.00 Fans (I Love GT handouts) vendor out of the midwest
$ 4,000.00 Band Stipends ($1000 ea marching band to cover bus costs)
$ 300.00 Magnetic Signs (for cars) Aaron Signs of Riverside
$ 500.00 Bagpipe Band UCR Band
$ 50.00 Parade Candy Walmart
$ 20.00 Judges Supplies
$ 18.00 Parade Music
Security
$ 375.00 Seibert Security of Colton
Beverages (FOR WHO?)
$ 230.00 water/soda
$ 61.00 Ice
$ 25.00 Snacks
$ 71.00 Event Prep/Set-up (BY WHO)?
Photography
$ 647.00 Peter Phun Riverside photographer
$ 200.00 DH Video/DVD Productions Local soccer supporter (UNNAMED)
Supplies/Materials
$ 371.00 Home Depot
$ 76.00 Traffic Specialties (parking signs)
$ 125.00 Event Staff Uniforms catalogue
$ 19.00 Sign prep fee
$ 350.00 Misc
$ 34 843.35 Total Cost and Value of Expenses
NOT INCLUDING GT EMPLOYEE'S TIME And VOLUNTEER HOURS. UNABLE TO CALCULATE LABOR COST DUE TO A LACK OF REAL DATA.
Community Services Officer (Law Enforcement Funds?)
GT days we have 5 maintenance crew members that are on overtime averaging $18 per hour for about 5-7 hours each.... ($ 600.00 )
Assistant City Manager 40 hours Salaried Employee
Code Enforcement Office Barrie Bowens
2-3 other city staff (salaried--no overtime UNIDENTIFIED)
40 Volunteers UNPAID
IF THERE are Any remaining funds are left in the GT Days Account for next year. These funds do not co-mingle with the General Fund or any other fund without authorization from the GT Days Committee.
Council Members Excited about SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT?
This is what it means... Do their Actions Fit this GOAL?
http://www.freedom21santacruz.net/site/about.php
The most widely known definition of sustainable development comes from the Brundtland Commission, which defined sustainable development as "development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs."
The term sustainable development goes beyond the boundaries of science and business development and trade to include human development, values, and differences in cultures. In fact, many organizations are referring to sustainable human development as opposed to sustainable development in order to emphasize issues such as the importance of gender equality, participation in decision-making processes, and access to education and health.
Cities have become the focal points of these components as major consumers and distributors of goods and services. However, many cities tend to be large consumers of goods and services, while draining resources out of external regions that they depend on. As a result of increasing consumption of resources, and growing dependencies on trade, the ecological impact of cities extends beyond their geographic locations. It has been recognized that the concept of sustainable development is an evolving, debatable term. This section gives you an overview of how sustainable (urban) development was defined by the Brundtland Commission and how it is defined by different organizations in different geographical regions.
The most widely known definition of sustainable development comes from the Brundtland Commission, which defined sustainable development as "development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs."
Rees, William E. and Roseland, Mark. 1991. Sustainable Communities: Planning for the 21st Century. Plan Canada. 31: 3. 15.
During the preparatory meetings for the URBAN21 Conference (Berlin, July 2000) the following definition was developed to define sustainable urban development:
"Improving the quality of life in a city, including ecological, cultural, political, institutional, social and economic components without leaving a burden on the future generations. A burden which is the result of a reduced natural capital and an excessive local debt. Our aim is that the flow principle, that is based on an equilibrium of material and energy and also financial input/output, plays a crucial role in all future decisions upon the development of urban areas."
However, there are many more definitions out there. Let's look at a few:
"Sustainable community development is the ability to make development choices which respect the relationship between the three "E's"-economy, ecology, and equity:
Economy - Economic activity should serve the common good, be self-renewing, and build local assets and self-reliance.
Ecology - Human are part of nature, nature has limits, and communities are responsible for protecting and building natural assets.
Equity - The opportunity for full participation in all activities, benefits, and decision-making of a society."
- Mountain Association for Community Economic Development (MACED): Hart Environmental Data
http://www.subjectmatters.com/indicators/
Sustainability/DefinitionsCommunity.html
"A sustainable community is one in which improvement in the quality of human life is achieved in harmony with improving and maintaining the health of ecological systems; and where a healthy economy's industrial base supports the quality of both human and ecological systems."
- Indigo Development
Indigo development: http://www.indigodev.com/Sustain.html
"A sustainable community uses its resources to meet current needs while ensuring that adequate resources are available for future generations. It seeks improved public health and a better quality of life for all its residents by limiting waste, preventing pollution, maximizing conservation and promoting efficiency, and developing local resources to revitalize the local economy."
- Concern, Inc. (1993)
"Sustainable communities are defined as towns and cities that have taken steps to remain healthy over the long term. Sustainable communities have a strong sense of place. They have a vision that is embraced and actively promoted by all of the key sectors of society, including businesses, disadvantaged groups, environmentalists, civic associations, government agencies, and religious organizations. They are places that build on their assets and dare to be innovative. These communities value healthy ecosystems, use resources efficiently, and actively seek to retain and enhance a locally based economy. There is a pervasive volunteer spirit that is rewarded by concrete results. Partnerships between and among government, the business sector, and nonprofit organizations are common. Public debate in these communities is engaging, inclusive, and constructive. Unlike traditional community development approaches, sustainability strategies emphasize: the whole community (instead of just disadvantaged neighborhoods); ecosystem protection; meaningful and broad-based citizen participation; and economic self-reliance."
- Institute for Sustainable Communities
Institute for Sustainable Communities: http://www.iscvt.org/FAQscdef.html
"A community that believes today's growth must not be achieved at tomorrow's expense."
- Governor's Commission for a Sustainable South Florida, initial report, October 1995
"... the deliberate effort to ensure that community development not only enhances the local economy, but also the local environment and quality of life."
- Center of Excellence for Sustainable Development
Florida Sustainable Communities Center: http://fcn.state.fl.us/fdi/
http://www.freedom21santacruz.net/site/about.php
http://www.freedom21santacruz.net/site/about.php
The most widely known definition of sustainable development comes from the Brundtland Commission, which defined sustainable development as "development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs."
The term sustainable development goes beyond the boundaries of science and business development and trade to include human development, values, and differences in cultures. In fact, many organizations are referring to sustainable human development as opposed to sustainable development in order to emphasize issues such as the importance of gender equality, participation in decision-making processes, and access to education and health.
Cities have become the focal points of these components as major consumers and distributors of goods and services. However, many cities tend to be large consumers of goods and services, while draining resources out of external regions that they depend on. As a result of increasing consumption of resources, and growing dependencies on trade, the ecological impact of cities extends beyond their geographic locations. It has been recognized that the concept of sustainable development is an evolving, debatable term. This section gives you an overview of how sustainable (urban) development was defined by the Brundtland Commission and how it is defined by different organizations in different geographical regions.
The most widely known definition of sustainable development comes from the Brundtland Commission, which defined sustainable development as "development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs."
Rees, William E. and Roseland, Mark. 1991. Sustainable Communities: Planning for the 21st Century. Plan Canada. 31: 3. 15.
During the preparatory meetings for the URBAN21 Conference (Berlin, July 2000) the following definition was developed to define sustainable urban development:
"Improving the quality of life in a city, including ecological, cultural, political, institutional, social and economic components without leaving a burden on the future generations. A burden which is the result of a reduced natural capital and an excessive local debt. Our aim is that the flow principle, that is based on an equilibrium of material and energy and also financial input/output, plays a crucial role in all future decisions upon the development of urban areas."
However, there are many more definitions out there. Let's look at a few:
"Sustainable community development is the ability to make development choices which respect the relationship between the three "E's"-economy, ecology, and equity:
Economy - Economic activity should serve the common good, be self-renewing, and build local assets and self-reliance.
Ecology - Human are part of nature, nature has limits, and communities are responsible for protecting and building natural assets.
Equity - The opportunity for full participation in all activities, benefits, and decision-making of a society."
- Mountain Association for Community Economic Development (MACED): Hart Environmental Data
http://www.subjectmatters.com/indicators/
Sustainability/DefinitionsCommunity.html
"A sustainable community is one in which improvement in the quality of human life is achieved in harmony with improving and maintaining the health of ecological systems; and where a healthy economy's industrial base supports the quality of both human and ecological systems."
- Indigo Development
Indigo development: http://www.indigodev.com/Sustain.html
"A sustainable community uses its resources to meet current needs while ensuring that adequate resources are available for future generations. It seeks improved public health and a better quality of life for all its residents by limiting waste, preventing pollution, maximizing conservation and promoting efficiency, and developing local resources to revitalize the local economy."
- Concern, Inc. (1993)
"Sustainable communities are defined as towns and cities that have taken steps to remain healthy over the long term. Sustainable communities have a strong sense of place. They have a vision that is embraced and actively promoted by all of the key sectors of society, including businesses, disadvantaged groups, environmentalists, civic associations, government agencies, and religious organizations. They are places that build on their assets and dare to be innovative. These communities value healthy ecosystems, use resources efficiently, and actively seek to retain and enhance a locally based economy. There is a pervasive volunteer spirit that is rewarded by concrete results. Partnerships between and among government, the business sector, and nonprofit organizations are common. Public debate in these communities is engaging, inclusive, and constructive. Unlike traditional community development approaches, sustainability strategies emphasize: the whole community (instead of just disadvantaged neighborhoods); ecosystem protection; meaningful and broad-based citizen participation; and economic self-reliance."
- Institute for Sustainable Communities
Institute for Sustainable Communities: http://www.iscvt.org/FAQscdef.html
"A community that believes today's growth must not be achieved at tomorrow's expense."
- Governor's Commission for a Sustainable South Florida, initial report, October 1995
"... the deliberate effort to ensure that community development not only enhances the local economy, but also the local environment and quality of life."
- Center of Excellence for Sustainable Development
Florida Sustainable Communities Center: http://fcn.state.fl.us/fdi/
http://www.freedom21santacruz.net/site/about.php
Wednesday, September 21, 2005
Local Liberty
They Take a Village:
Redevelopment in “Blighted” Claremont
By C. Robert Ferguson
Claremont is one of the most affluent cities in Southern California. It is the home of the prestigious Claremont Colleges. Property values are rising rapidly. The heart and civic center of the city is the Claremont “Village,” which includes City Hall, the county library, and numerous trendy shops and restaurants within approximately 14 blocks of tree-lined streets. In 1973, the Village and the area to the west were declared a physical, social, and economic liability. Deemed “blighted,” they became a redevelopment project. With the power of redevelopment, the City, its Redevelopment Agency, and two private developers redesigned and are redeveloping the area west of the Village at the cost of five existing businesses, a storage facility, and $2.25 million.
Redevelopment in California began in 1952 after the adoption of a new state constitutional amendment, Article XVI, Section 16, which permitted the creation of redevelopment agencies and their financing through tax increment. Tax increment provides a never ending source of revenue.
After a redevelopment project is adopted, taxes on real property in the project area are divided between the original taxing agencies and the redevelopment agency (typically the city council under a different legal label).The taxing agencies (for Claremont, 16 entities including the County, school, flood control, and water districts, fire department, etc.) and the redevelopment agency/city council receive the amounts they would have received before the adoption of the plan, plus additional, small, statutory amounts. The remainder of the tax increment—i.e., the additional property tax—is the revenue from the additional values assessed after the adoption of the redevelopment plan goes to the redevelopment agency/city council.
In addition to financing through tax increment, redevelopment agencies also have the power to take property by eminent domain and to issue bonds without the two thirds voter approval that is otherwise required in California. The agencies are responsible for new streets, sidewalks, curbs, gutters, landscaping signage, signals, public parking, trunk lines for sewers, storm drains, and communication and electricity.
Redevelopment agencies are also responsible for demolition and grading. Cities, through their redevelopment agencies, have these extraordinary powers for a reason, however questionable. Redevelopment was intended to revitalize blighted communities by reversing the decline of urban slum neighborhoods which have been rendered economically useless and a liability to the community. Also, there must be “true blight” as exemplified by the kind of inner-city slum conditions described in the Bunker Hill case.
There, it was found that unacceptable living conditions were 82 percent, unacceptable building conditions were 76 percent, the crime rate was double the city's average, the arrest rate was 8 times the city's average, the fire rate was 9 times the city's average, and the cost of city services was more than 7 times the cost of tax revenues.
Unfortunately, rather than curing blight, redevelopment today is primarily used to recycle real property by using eminent domain to acquire parcels and sell them at a discount to a developer. Instead of private capital paying for the construction of streets, curbs, and sidewalks, redevelopment agencies often pay for them. The benefit to the city is increased sales tax and more upscale residences and commercial businesses.
To cure this misuse of redevelopment for private commercial benefit, the California Legislature enacted a statute that requires that 20 percent of the redevelopment tax increment be used for low- and moderate-income housing. As a general rule, however, this mandate is honored more in its breach.
The City of Claremont adopted a redevelopment plan which included the Village by passing City Ordinance 73-8. By doing so, the Claremont City Council declared that “blight” existed in the Village. Yet in its description of the Village’s physical, social and economic conditions, the Claremont Redevelopment Agency described it as follows:
The existing structures “were fairly well maintained”; residents were described as “predominantly white, of moderate income, and either elderly or young families with children”; economic conditions were “characterized [sic] by relatively static retail sales and a lack of dynamic growth in the commercial facilities.”
In 2000 the Agency and City Council again reviewed the question of blight in the Village. The Claremont City Council found that the Village was indeed blighted. This “finding” was made despite the fact that the Village remains a vibrant, active area where rents are so high that several local businesses went out of business. According to the Redevelopment Agency’s staff, “The Claremont Village is one of the most successful small downtown areas in Southern California. Parking spaces are nearly full most hours of the day, even into the evening, and there are virtually no commercial and retail vacancies in the Village.”
Home prices around the Village are no longer affordable for most of the elderly or young families with children. Because the findings of blight were not challenged within 60 days after their adoption, they cannot be challenged.
The idea of expanding the Village across Indian Hill Boulevard, the main north-south street in Claremont, began in the early 1990s. The City decided to take what it termed a “proactive approach” to the expansion. Initially, the approach was directed to potential development, which evolved into the actual development of shops, a theater, a hotel, cafes, and offices. The development was initially called “Village West.” But because this label struck fear into the hearts of the existing merchants, the Agency changed the name to “Village Expansion.”
The City and the Redevelopment Agency wanted to ensure that the Village grew in an orderly, thoughtful manner that reflected the community's standards, “not just the whims of private developers” (Village Expansion section of Council Briefing Paper, 2002). But the Redevelopment Agency had already hired two consultants: One was a private residential developer; the other a private commercial developer.
The governmental “process” for developing the Village west of Indian Hill Boulevard began in 1998. That year, the Claremont Planning Commission began preparing a Specific Plan for redeveloping the area west of the Village into a mixed-use residential and commercial area. In January of 2001, the Village Expansion Specific Plan was adopted by the Claremont City Council. City officials
They Take a Village:
Redevelopment in “Blighted” Claremont
By C. Robert Ferguson
Claremont is one of the most affluent cities in Southern California. It is the home of the prestigious Claremont Colleges. Property values are rising rapidly. The heart and civic center of the city is the Claremont “Village,” which includes City Hall, the county library, and numerous trendy shops and restaurants within approximately 14 blocks of tree-lined streets. In 1973, the Village and the area to the west were declared a physical, social, and economic liability. Deemed “blighted,” they became a redevelopment project. With the power of redevelopment, the City, its Redevelopment Agency, and two private developers redesigned and are redeveloping the area west of the Village at the cost of five existing businesses, a storage facility, and $2.25 million.
Redevelopment in California began in 1952 after the adoption of a new state constitutional amendment, Article XVI, Section 16, which permitted the creation of redevelopment agencies and their financing through tax increment. Tax increment provides a never ending source of revenue.
After a redevelopment project is adopted, taxes on real property in the project area are divided between the original taxing agencies and the redevelopment agency (typically the city council under a different legal label).The taxing agencies (for Claremont, 16 entities including the County, school, flood control, and water districts, fire department, etc.) and the redevelopment agency/city council receive the amounts they would have received before the adoption of the plan, plus additional, small, statutory amounts. The remainder of the tax increment—i.e., the additional property tax—is the revenue from the additional values assessed after the adoption of the redevelopment plan goes to the redevelopment agency/city council.
In addition to financing through tax increment, redevelopment agencies also have the power to take property by eminent domain and to issue bonds without the two thirds voter approval that is otherwise required in California. The agencies are responsible for new streets, sidewalks, curbs, gutters, landscaping signage, signals, public parking, trunk lines for sewers, storm drains, and communication and electricity.
Redevelopment agencies are also responsible for demolition and grading. Cities, through their redevelopment agencies, have these extraordinary powers for a reason, however questionable. Redevelopment was intended to revitalize blighted communities by reversing the decline of urban slum neighborhoods which have been rendered economically useless and a liability to the community. Also, there must be “true blight” as exemplified by the kind of inner-city slum conditions described in the Bunker Hill case.
There, it was found that unacceptable living conditions were 82 percent, unacceptable building conditions were 76 percent, the crime rate was double the city's average, the arrest rate was 8 times the city's average, the fire rate was 9 times the city's average, and the cost of city services was more than 7 times the cost of tax revenues.
Unfortunately, rather than curing blight, redevelopment today is primarily used to recycle real property by using eminent domain to acquire parcels and sell them at a discount to a developer. Instead of private capital paying for the construction of streets, curbs, and sidewalks, redevelopment agencies often pay for them. The benefit to the city is increased sales tax and more upscale residences and commercial businesses.
To cure this misuse of redevelopment for private commercial benefit, the California Legislature enacted a statute that requires that 20 percent of the redevelopment tax increment be used for low- and moderate-income housing. As a general rule, however, this mandate is honored more in its breach.
The City of Claremont adopted a redevelopment plan which included the Village by passing City Ordinance 73-8. By doing so, the Claremont City Council declared that “blight” existed in the Village. Yet in its description of the Village’s physical, social and economic conditions, the Claremont Redevelopment Agency described it as follows:
The existing structures “were fairly well maintained”; residents were described as “predominantly white, of moderate income, and either elderly or young families with children”; economic conditions were “characterized [sic] by relatively static retail sales and a lack of dynamic growth in the commercial facilities.”
In 2000 the Agency and City Council again reviewed the question of blight in the Village. The Claremont City Council found that the Village was indeed blighted. This “finding” was made despite the fact that the Village remains a vibrant, active area where rents are so high that several local businesses went out of business. According to the Redevelopment Agency’s staff, “The Claremont Village is one of the most successful small downtown areas in Southern California. Parking spaces are nearly full most hours of the day, even into the evening, and there are virtually no commercial and retail vacancies in the Village.”
Home prices around the Village are no longer affordable for most of the elderly or young families with children. Because the findings of blight were not challenged within 60 days after their adoption, they cannot be challenged.
The idea of expanding the Village across Indian Hill Boulevard, the main north-south street in Claremont, began in the early 1990s. The City decided to take what it termed a “proactive approach” to the expansion. Initially, the approach was directed to potential development, which evolved into the actual development of shops, a theater, a hotel, cafes, and offices. The development was initially called “Village West.” But because this label struck fear into the hearts of the existing merchants, the Agency changed the name to “Village Expansion.”
The City and the Redevelopment Agency wanted to ensure that the Village grew in an orderly, thoughtful manner that reflected the community's standards, “not just the whims of private developers” (Village Expansion section of Council Briefing Paper, 2002). But the Redevelopment Agency had already hired two consultants: One was a private residential developer; the other a private commercial developer.
The governmental “process” for developing the Village west of Indian Hill Boulevard began in 1998. That year, the Claremont Planning Commission began preparing a Specific Plan for redeveloping the area west of the Village into a mixed-use residential and commercial area. In January of 2001, the Village Expansion Specific Plan was adopted by the Claremont City Council. City officials
Important Facts for Citizens to KNOW
GRAND TERRACE July 1981 Redevelopment Plan was Amended to include the entire town, and which established the Agency’s authority to use eminent domain to acquire non-residential ly designated property in the Project area. Eminent domain authority expires 7-22-2011 and the Redevelopment Plan Effectiveness expires on 7-15-2016.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR OWNERS & TENANTS
“OPPORTUNITIES TO PARTICIPATE SHALL BE PROVIDED FIRST TO OWNERS AND TENANTS IN THE PROJECT AREA WITHOUT COMPETITION WITH PERSONS AND FIRMS FROM OUTSIDE THE PROJECT AREA.” Page 12, paragraph B-3
“In order to provide opportunities to owners and tenants to participate in the redevelopment of the Project area, the Agency has promulgated rules for owner and tenant participation. If conflicts develop between the desires of participants for particular sites or land uses, the Agency is authorized to establish reasonable priorities and preferences among the owners and tenants. Some of the factors to be considered in establishing these priorities and preferences may include participants’ length of occupancy in the area, accommodation of the many participants as possible, similarity of land use, and conformity of participants’ proposals with the intent and objective of the Redevelopment Plan.” Page 12,
“Persons who are owners of real property in the Project Area shall be given reasonable opportunity to participate in redevelopment: by retaining all or a portion of their properties; by acquiring adjacent or other properties in the Project Area; by rehabilitation of existing buildings or improvements; by new development; or by selling their properties to the Agency and purchasing other properties in the Project Area, in accordance with this plan and the rules for owner and tenant participation adopted by the Agency pursuant to this Plan and the California Community Redevelopment Law.” Page 9 paragraph B-1
“The Agency shall extend reasonable preferences to persons who are engaged in business in the Project Area, to participate in the redevelopment, of the Project Area, or to re-enter into business within the redeveloped area, if they otherwise meet the requirements prescribed in the Plan. The Agency shall also extend reasonable preferences to tenants other than business tenants in the Project Area to re-enter within the redeveloped area, if they otherwise meet the requirements prescribed by the Plan. Such business, residential, institutional, and semi-private tenants shall be permitted, if they so desire, to purchase and develop real property in the Project Area.” Page 10
OPPORTUNITIES FOR OWNERS & TENANTS
“OPPORTUNITIES TO PARTICIPATE SHALL BE PROVIDED FIRST TO OWNERS AND TENANTS IN THE PROJECT AREA WITHOUT COMPETITION WITH PERSONS AND FIRMS FROM OUTSIDE THE PROJECT AREA.” Page 12, paragraph B-3
“In order to provide opportunities to owners and tenants to participate in the redevelopment of the Project area, the Agency has promulgated rules for owner and tenant participation. If conflicts develop between the desires of participants for particular sites or land uses, the Agency is authorized to establish reasonable priorities and preferences among the owners and tenants. Some of the factors to be considered in establishing these priorities and preferences may include participants’ length of occupancy in the area, accommodation of the many participants as possible, similarity of land use, and conformity of participants’ proposals with the intent and objective of the Redevelopment Plan.” Page 12,
“Persons who are owners of real property in the Project Area shall be given reasonable opportunity to participate in redevelopment: by retaining all or a portion of their properties; by acquiring adjacent or other properties in the Project Area; by rehabilitation of existing buildings or improvements; by new development; or by selling their properties to the Agency and purchasing other properties in the Project Area, in accordance with this plan and the rules for owner and tenant participation adopted by the Agency pursuant to this Plan and the California Community Redevelopment Law.” Page 9 paragraph B-1
“The Agency shall extend reasonable preferences to persons who are engaged in business in the Project Area, to participate in the redevelopment, of the Project Area, or to re-enter into business within the redeveloped area, if they otherwise meet the requirements prescribed in the Plan. The Agency shall also extend reasonable preferences to tenants other than business tenants in the Project Area to re-enter within the redeveloped area, if they otherwise meet the requirements prescribed by the Plan. Such business, residential, institutional, and semi-private tenants shall be permitted, if they so desire, to purchase and develop real property in the Project Area.” Page 10
Grand Terrace High School Plans Released by CJUSD
Although the City was provided copies of these documents apparently one has to go to CJUSD to obtain copies. The blog thanks the person providing this detailed information to the public. Please note the traffic patterns and the probable need for widening Michigan Street.
Fireworks, Blue Mt. Sr Villas, and More
CITY OF GRAND TERRACE
COUNCIL MEETING
SEPTEMBER 22, 2005
6:00 PM
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
GRAND TERRACE CIVIC CENTER
22795 Barton Road
THE CITY OF GRAND TERRACE COMPLIES WITH THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT OF 1990. IF YOU REQUIRE SPECIAL ASSISTANCE TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS MEETING, PLEASE CALL THE CITY CLERK'S OFFICE AT (909) 824-6621 AT LEAST 48 HOURS PRIOR TO THE MEETING.
IF YOU DESIRE TO ADDRESS THE CITY COUNCIL DURING THE MEETING, YOU ARE ASKED TO PLEASE COMPLETE A REQUEST TO SPEAK FORM AVAILABLE AT THE ENTRANCE AND PRESENT IT TO THE CITY CLERK. SPEAKERS WILL BE CALLED UPON BY THE MAYOR AT THE APPROPRIATE TIME.
COUNCIL MEETING
SEPTEMBER 22, 2005
6:00 PM
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
GRAND TERRACE CIVIC CENTER
22795 Barton Road
THE CITY OF GRAND TERRACE COMPLIES WITH THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT OF 1990. IF YOU REQUIRE SPECIAL ASSISTANCE TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS MEETING, PLEASE CALL THE CITY CLERK'S OFFICE AT (909) 824-6621 AT LEAST 48 HOURS PRIOR TO THE MEETING.
IF YOU DESIRE TO ADDRESS THE CITY COUNCIL DURING THE MEETING, YOU ARE ASKED TO PLEASE COMPLETE A REQUEST TO SPEAK FORM AVAILABLE AT THE ENTRANCE AND PRESENT IT TO THE CITY CLERK. SPEAKERS WILL BE CALLED UPON BY THE MAYOR AT THE APPROPRIATE TIME.
Remember that you may speak 3 minutes on each agenda item. Please fill out Request to Speak Forms for each agenda item you wish to speak about.
* Call to Order
-* Invocation - Pastor Roberto Garcia, Terrace Crest Baptist Church
* Pledge of Allegiance -
* Roll Call -
AGENDA ITEMS
CONVENE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
1. Approval of 09-08-2005 Minutes
ADJOURN COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
CONVENE CITY COUNCIL MEETING
1. Items to Delete
2. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
A. Grand Terrace Little League Girls Junior Softball All-Stars
3. CONSENT CALENDAR
The following Consent Calendar items are expected to be routine and noncontroversial. They will be acted upon by the Council at one time without discussion. Any Council Member, Staff Member, or Citizen may request removal of an item from the Consent Calendar for discussion.
A. Approve Check Register Dated September 22, 2005 What is hidden on this Check register? Why isn't the check register posted on the web site?
B. Waive Full Reading of Ordinances on Agenda
C. Approval of 09-08-2005 Minutes
4. PUBLIC COMMENT
This is the opportunity for members of the public to comment on any items not appearing on the regular agenda. Because of restrictions contained in California Law, the City Council is prohibited from discussing or acting on any item not on the agenda. The Mayor may request a brief response from staff to questions raised during public comment.
5. REPORTS -
A. Committee Reports
1. Emergency Operations Committee
a. Minutes of 08-02-2005
b. Appoint New committee Member (Hurst)
2. Crime Prevention Committee
a. Minutes of 08-08-2005
b. California Sexual Predator Punishment and Control Act
3. Historical & Cultural Activities Committee
a. Minutes of 07-11-2005
B. Council Reports This is where the Members of the Council get to talk about anything they want... Note they are not limited to 3 minutes and their comments are not restricted to only city business.
6. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. Street Cuty Policy and an Ordinance ot the City Council of the City of Grand Terrace, California Establishing Fines for Failure to Obtain a Street Cut Permit and FAilure to Perform Street Cut Construction in Accordance to the specifications as Described in the Specifications for Construction within the Public Right of Way
7. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
A. Second Reading of an Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Grand Terrace Approving SP-05-01 (Blue Mountain Senior Villas Specific Plan) and Environmental Assessment E-05-16 Public Gets a second round to send this project back to the Planning Commission due to the extensive changes in the plan as approved by the Council, if it is brought up the the Council.
Second Reading of an Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Grand Terrace, State of California, Approving General Plan Amendment Case No. GP-05-01 for an Amendment to the City General Plan - Community Development Element to Add a New Land Use Designation of Medium High Density Residential Public gets opportunity to voice related concerns about the Violation of the "General Plan" locating the Senior Housing on Barton Road near PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION and shopping and GT Elementary School and The Terrace.
B. Approve August 25, 2005 Council Minutes and Re-vote on Voucher #56055 in the Amount of $890,674.00 What did they buy for that?, Oh yes, isn't that the property that is for the "Not an OutDoor Activity Center". The issue is Council Member Miller's Wife's Non Employment with the Broker. One wonders.... Why are all checks written and cashed before the council sees the contracts, vouchers and receipts regardless of the amount. Should there be a limit on the amount that the City Manager can sign for without prior Council Approval?
There is a long list of unfinished business the city doesn't want to remind you about:
A: Policy and Procedure and Practice Committee: Define Role and Function of GT Mayor and Council Member.
B: Air Conditioning Contract (What Happened to this?)
C: Contract Bidding Practice Review
D: Review of Fireworks Sales On Tonights Agenda
E: Audit of GT Days Finances and GT City Employee's Time Spent requested By Council Member Miller Partial Data Supplied to Blog Will Post This Week
F: Revision of all Codes and Ordinances 400 Pages in Library
G: Rental Inspection Fees: Pending Decision for Future Evaluation
H: Disclosure of the Law Suit Filed against the City Delayed till Feb. 2006 Related to the OAC
8. NEW BUSINESS
A. Discussion on Fireworks Regulations No Fireworks should be allowed in GT. Swift Arrest and seizure of Cars or Houses where Fireworks are Found should curtail the use of any form of Fireworks and the auction of the cars and houses should provide funds for the enforcement and the sports teams.
B. Consideration of a LEase AGreement Between the City of Grand Terrace and T-Mobil Wireless on a Cell Tower Site at the City's Corporate Yard This is a RADIO TOWER dressed to look like a tree? But it PAYS the City money so it is ok. How can this tower and service increase communications during emergency situations?
C. Blue Mountain Senior Villas - Ground Lease
HOLD THE FORT. THIS LEASE AND THE ASSOCIATED DEALS IS WHERE THE BIG ISSUES ARE. WHY THIS CONTRACTOR AND NOT OTHERS? HAS ANY ONE ELSE ASKED TO BUILD AND MANAGE THE PROJECT? WILL THE BUILDING BE AS CITY MANAGER TOM SCHWAB SAID IN THE GRAND TERRACE NEWS OWNED BY CORPORATION FOR BETTER HOUSING? WILL THEY HAVE THE RIGHT TO SELL THE BUILDING TO A 3RD PARTY? WHAT IS THE MANAGEMENT PLAN, AND THE SERVICED INCLUDED. THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS TO THE CONTRACT SHOULD BE AVAILABLE AS A REQUEST FOR BID REQUIREMENT SO THAT OTHERS MAY PROVIDE COMPETITIVE BIDS AND OTHER VENDORS ARE EXAMINED. What do we KNOW about the Corporation for Better Housing? We KNOW that their IRS forms indicate they can receive money and give you a receipt for a charitable contribution, yet their actual practices may be in violation of that classification. We know that the "Charity" pays most of its resources out to un named fees and services contracts and not "charitable Activities".
If there is to be a Senior Villas ok, but there needs to be reasonable business practices exercised before entering into a contract with the Contractor/Manager/Owner of the "Projects". This includes opening up the opportunity to other Contractors and Developers and a full disclosure of the Terms and Conditions of a 65 year relationship.
Don't let a Contribution to the City's Party Fund let a single contractor be our equivalent of a No-Bid Halliburton we have to live with for 65 years. We are putting in 8 Million and the Land we should know the DEAL before it is signed.
9. CLOSED SESSION - None
ADJOURN
THE NEXT CRA/CITY COUNCIL MEETING WILL BE HELD ON THURSDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2005 AT 6:00 P.M.
AGENDA ITEM REQUESTS FOR THE 10-13-2005
MEETING MUST BE SUBMITTED IN WRITING TO THE CITY CLERK'S OFFICE BY NOON 10-06-2005.
Grandpaterrace's comments in BLUE
Tuesday, September 20, 2005
MISGUIDED CITY
Today, I am of the opinion that perhaps it isn't City Council Members that are all bad, but that they are deliberately misguided. Granted it is their responsibility to find out the truth. How can they find anything out when they only learn of things at the City Council Meetings. However, it is their responsibility to correct the problem. Now that they know they aren't getting straight answers, lets see what they do to find a solution.
WEBSITE JOB DESCRIPTION
The goal of the City Manager's office is to provide professional administrative assistance to the City Council in establishing the policies, programs, and services to be offered to the Grand Terrace community.
The City Manager is appointed by the City Council to serve as the Chief Administrative Officer of the organization. (Not his own organization!)
When asked a question that pertains to policy and procedure, Mr. Schwab should be able to give a direct answer and not beat around the bush. I am of the opinion that Mr. Schwab is an intelligent man and therefore has his own agenda for OUR city.
The citizens of Grand Terrace have a right to know what is going to happen to compromise their rights as property owners. Their right to quiet enjoyment of their property. My personal preference is my right not to be forced to breath increasingly toxic air.
Mr. Schwab has an agenda to increase the traffic in Grand Terrace. He thinks that equals increased revenue. Since when has so much revenue been that important to the citizens of Grand Terrace.
What about our right for a safe, healthy environment for our children. It is not the responsibility for parents by themselves. "Parents" have put their trust in these people. They expect them to be honest, ethical, and intelligent in solving the problems of the City. A City is not an inanimate object, or a collection of buildings. It is people! Young, Old and in between.
It is the responsibility of every parent to fight for their children and bring their voice forward to let our City Government know how they want their city run. If we don't do that than we have no right to complain when they fill the city with buildings that won't be full, increase the population and pollution and take their money and run.
When it is all said and done, we will have to ask ourselves what did we contribute to this earth? What is the legacy we want to leave behind? What do we want our family to remember about our lives?
We have elected the City Council members and soon a new mayor. We need to fight for a City Council that fights for the rights of it's citizens. And for a City Council that insists that the City Manager be able to lay all their cards on the table. Not hide behind some abyss of city policy and procedure that nobody but him knows the rules to. One man should not have so much power.
"United We Stand"
There is a meeting the third Monday of every month at the Lions Club that begins at 7:00. Information and facts are there. If you are concerned about the direction you will find solutions there. Hope to see yo there!
Today, I am of the opinion that perhaps it isn't City Council Members that are all bad, but that they are deliberately misguided. Granted it is their responsibility to find out the truth. How can they find anything out when they only learn of things at the City Council Meetings. However, it is their responsibility to correct the problem. Now that they know they aren't getting straight answers, lets see what they do to find a solution.
WEBSITE JOB DESCRIPTION
The goal of the City Manager's office is to provide professional administrative assistance to the City Council in establishing the policies, programs, and services to be offered to the Grand Terrace community.
The City Manager is appointed by the City Council to serve as the Chief Administrative Officer of the organization. (Not his own organization!)
When asked a question that pertains to policy and procedure, Mr. Schwab should be able to give a direct answer and not beat around the bush. I am of the opinion that Mr. Schwab is an intelligent man and therefore has his own agenda for OUR city.
The citizens of Grand Terrace have a right to know what is going to happen to compromise their rights as property owners. Their right to quiet enjoyment of their property. My personal preference is my right not to be forced to breath increasingly toxic air.
Mr. Schwab has an agenda to increase the traffic in Grand Terrace. He thinks that equals increased revenue. Since when has so much revenue been that important to the citizens of Grand Terrace.
What about our right for a safe, healthy environment for our children. It is not the responsibility for parents by themselves. "Parents" have put their trust in these people. They expect them to be honest, ethical, and intelligent in solving the problems of the City. A City is not an inanimate object, or a collection of buildings. It is people! Young, Old and in between.
It is the responsibility of every parent to fight for their children and bring their voice forward to let our City Government know how they want their city run. If we don't do that than we have no right to complain when they fill the city with buildings that won't be full, increase the population and pollution and take their money and run.
When it is all said and done, we will have to ask ourselves what did we contribute to this earth? What is the legacy we want to leave behind? What do we want our family to remember about our lives?
We have elected the City Council members and soon a new mayor. We need to fight for a City Council that fights for the rights of it's citizens. And for a City Council that insists that the City Manager be able to lay all their cards on the table. Not hide behind some abyss of city policy and procedure that nobody but him knows the rules to. One man should not have so much power.
"United We Stand"
There is a meeting the third Monday of every month at the Lions Club that begins at 7:00. Information and facts are there. If you are concerned about the direction you will find solutions there. Hope to see yo there!
Monday, September 19, 2005
New Tune on Blue Mt. Senior Villas?
Blue Mt. Senior Villas was Misrepresented by Developer or by City Manager?
Quoting City Manager Tom Schwab from an interview in this weeks Grand Terrace City News: He states: the complex will be for "completely independent living. NO Meals will be provided. There will be no assisted living services."
At the Presentation of the development the developer Corporation for Better Housing, a (Charity), said there would be a caretaker on site 24/7. In addition a shuttle service to take people to the store or to the doctors like The Terrace does was part of the conditions stipulated to in the placement of the Development distant from the nearly non existent PUBLIC Transportation options in Grand Terrace.
So which is it? Will there be a caretaker in house 24/7? Will there be a shuttle service?
It was also said that the City would own the Development and the Land, and the CBH would have a 65 year lease on the property. The Grand Terrace City News article says the Building will be OWNED by CBH and the property will be leased from the City. The City will be PAYING CBH 8 Million dollars, for them to own the building, and they lease the property for $1.00 per year. Of course when the 65 years is up the building would revert to the City. The city will have to remove it in all likelihood at City expense. What prevents the CBH from "Selling" their Building during that 65 years? What assurances the Management of the facility will be the quality presented to the punch and cookie feed seniors?
There were constructive criticism of this project beyond the neighbors concerns about the loss of their View from their property. Transportation, and Location of the Development was a concern. The DEAL is a concern as it was not competitively bid. The Parks lack of restroom facilities even for seniors living in the Apartments will be a future problem. The city had a nice concert paid for by the Developers of this project. Now we are beginning to hear the real tune of what we should expect when it is built.
Quoting City Manager Tom Schwab from an interview in this weeks Grand Terrace City News: He states: the complex will be for "completely independent living. NO Meals will be provided. There will be no assisted living services."
At the Presentation of the development the developer Corporation for Better Housing, a (Charity), said there would be a caretaker on site 24/7. In addition a shuttle service to take people to the store or to the doctors like The Terrace does was part of the conditions stipulated to in the placement of the Development distant from the nearly non existent PUBLIC Transportation options in Grand Terrace.
So which is it? Will there be a caretaker in house 24/7? Will there be a shuttle service?
It was also said that the City would own the Development and the Land, and the CBH would have a 65 year lease on the property. The Grand Terrace City News article says the Building will be OWNED by CBH and the property will be leased from the City. The City will be PAYING CBH 8 Million dollars, for them to own the building, and they lease the property for $1.00 per year. Of course when the 65 years is up the building would revert to the City. The city will have to remove it in all likelihood at City expense. What prevents the CBH from "Selling" their Building during that 65 years? What assurances the Management of the facility will be the quality presented to the punch and cookie feed seniors?
There were constructive criticism of this project beyond the neighbors concerns about the loss of their View from their property. Transportation, and Location of the Development was a concern. The DEAL is a concern as it was not competitively bid. The Parks lack of restroom facilities even for seniors living in the Apartments will be a future problem. The city had a nice concert paid for by the Developers of this project. Now we are beginning to hear the real tune of what we should expect when it is built.
Arrests # 6 & 7
BOOKING NUMBER: 0509343151 DATE: 09/18/2005 TIME: 2337
ARREST DATE: 09/18/2005 TIME: 2245
LOC: GRAND TERRACE RD @ BARTON
AGENCY: GRANDTERRACE CITY
RELEASE DATE: TIME: FACILITY: WEST VALLEY D.C.
NAME:
LAST: LAYTON FIRST: SHEILA MIDDLE: ANN MARIE
DOB: 10/18/1973 SEX: F
RACE: W HT: 5 07 WT: 125 HAIR: BLN EYE COLOR: GRN
OCCUPATION: UNEMPLOYED
CHARGE TYPE SUPPL/HOLD BAIL DISPOSITION
PC243(E)(1) MISD ORIGINAL NO BAIL
PC647(F) MISD ORIGINAL
___________________________________________________________
________________________________
BOOKING NUMBER: 0509343152
DATE: 09/18/2005 TIME: 2334
ARREST DATE: 09/18/2005 TIME: 2245
LOC: GRAND TERRACE @ BARTON AGENCY: GRANDTERRACE CITY
RELEASE DATE: TIME: FACILITY: WEST VALLEY D.C.
NAME:
LAST: OLLERTON FIRST: CRAIG MIDDLE:
DOB: 02/11/1966 SEX: M
RACE: W HT: 5 10 WT: 160 HAIR: BRO EYE COLOR: BLU
OCCUPATION: ACCOUNTING
CHARGE TYPE SUPPL/HOLD BAIL DISPOSITION
PC243(E)(1) MISD ORIGINAL NO BAIL
PC647(F) MISD ORIGINAL
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Charge Detail
PC243(e) (1) When a battery is committed against a spouse, a person with whom the defendant is cohabiting, a person who is the parent of the defendant's child, former spouse, fiance, or fiancee, or a person with whom the defendant currently has, or has previously had, a dating or engagement relationship, the battery is punishable by a fine not exceeding two thousand dollars ($2,000), or by imprisonment in a county jail for a period of not more than one year, or by both that fine and imprisonment. If probation is granted, or the execution or imposition of the sentence is suspended, it shall be a condition thereof that the defendant participate in, for no less than one year, and successfully complete, a batterer's treatment program, as defined in Section 1203.097, or if none is available, an other appropriate counseling program designated by the court. However, this provision shall not be construed as requiring a city, a county, or a city and county to provide a new program or higher level of service as contemplated by Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution.
PC647( f) Who is found in any public place under the influence ofintoxicating liquor, any drug, controlled substance, toluene, or any combination of any intoxicating liquor, drug, controlled substance,or toluene, in a condition that he or she is unable to exercise care for his or her own safety or the safety of others, or by reason ofhis or her being under the influence of intoxicating liquor, any drug, controlled substance, toluene, or any combination of any intoxicating liquor, drug, or toluene, interferes with or obstructs or prevents the free use of any street, sidewalk, or other public way.
ARREST DATE: 09/18/2005 TIME: 2245
LOC: GRAND TERRACE RD @ BARTON
AGENCY: GRANDTERRACE CITY
RELEASE DATE: TIME: FACILITY: WEST VALLEY D.C.
NAME:
LAST: LAYTON FIRST: SHEILA MIDDLE: ANN MARIE
DOB: 10/18/1973 SEX: F
RACE: W HT: 5 07 WT: 125 HAIR: BLN EYE COLOR: GRN
OCCUPATION: UNEMPLOYED
CHARGE TYPE SUPPL/HOLD BAIL DISPOSITION
PC243(E)(1) MISD ORIGINAL NO BAIL
PC647(F) MISD ORIGINAL
___________________________________________________________
________________________________
BOOKING NUMBER: 0509343152
DATE: 09/18/2005 TIME: 2334
ARREST DATE: 09/18/2005 TIME: 2245
LOC: GRAND TERRACE @ BARTON AGENCY: GRANDTERRACE CITY
RELEASE DATE: TIME: FACILITY: WEST VALLEY D.C.
NAME:
LAST: OLLERTON FIRST: CRAIG MIDDLE:
DOB: 02/11/1966 SEX: M
RACE: W HT: 5 10 WT: 160 HAIR: BRO EYE COLOR: BLU
OCCUPATION: ACCOUNTING
CHARGE TYPE SUPPL/HOLD BAIL DISPOSITION
PC243(E)(1) MISD ORIGINAL NO BAIL
PC647(F) MISD ORIGINAL
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Charge Detail
PC243(e) (1) When a battery is committed against a spouse, a person with whom the defendant is cohabiting, a person who is the parent of the defendant's child, former spouse, fiance, or fiancee, or a person with whom the defendant currently has, or has previously had, a dating or engagement relationship, the battery is punishable by a fine not exceeding two thousand dollars ($2,000), or by imprisonment in a county jail for a period of not more than one year, or by both that fine and imprisonment. If probation is granted, or the execution or imposition of the sentence is suspended, it shall be a condition thereof that the defendant participate in, for no less than one year, and successfully complete, a batterer's treatment program, as defined in Section 1203.097, or if none is available, an other appropriate counseling program designated by the court. However, this provision shall not be construed as requiring a city, a county, or a city and county to provide a new program or higher level of service as contemplated by Section 6 of Article XIIIB of the California Constitution.
PC647( f) Who is found in any public place under the influence ofintoxicating liquor, any drug, controlled substance, toluene, or any combination of any intoxicating liquor, drug, controlled substance,or toluene, in a condition that he or she is unable to exercise care for his or her own safety or the safety of others, or by reason ofhis or her being under the influence of intoxicating liquor, any drug, controlled substance, toluene, or any combination of any intoxicating liquor, drug, or toluene, interferes with or obstructs or prevents the free use of any street, sidewalk, or other public way.
Sunday, September 18, 2005
Arrest #5 Vandalism
BOOKING NUMBER: 0509300924 DATE: 09/17/2005 TIME: 1631
ARREST DATE: 09/17/2005 TIME: 1525
LOC: 22313 MCCLARREN ST AGENCY: GRANDTERRACE CITY
RELEASE DATE: 09/17/2005 TIME: 1934
FACILITY:
NAME: LAST: POWERS FIRST: MICHAEL MIDDLE: BURTON DOB: 02/22/1980 SEX: M
RACE: W HT: 5 11 WT: 170 HAIR: MUL EYE COLOR: GRN
OCCUPATION: LOAD TRAINS
CHARGE TYPE SUPPL/HOLD BAIL DISPOSITION
PC594(B)(2)(A) MISD ORIGINAL $10,000.00 MISD-WARRANT
___________________________________________________________
PC594. (a) Every person who maliciously commits any of the following acts with respect to any real or personal property not his or her own, in cases other than those specified by state law, is guilty of vandalism: (1) Defaces with graffiti or other inscribed material. (2) Damages. (3) Destroys. Whenever a person violates this subdivision with respect to real property, vehicles, signs, fixtures, furnishings, or property belonging to any public entity, as defined by Section 811.2 of the Government Code, or the federal government, it shall be a permissive inference that the person neither owned the property nor had the permission of the owner to deface, damage, or destroy the property.
(b) (1) If the amount of defacement, damage, or destruction isfour hundred dollars ($400) or more, vandalism is punishable by imprisonment in the state prison or in a county jail not exceeding one year, or by a fine of not more than ten thousand dollars($10,000), or if the amount of defacement, damage, or destruction isten thousand dollars ($10,000) or more, by a fine of not more thanfifty thousand dollars ($50,000), or by both that fine and imprisonment.
(2) (A) If the amount of defacement, damage, or destruction is less than four hundred dollars ($400), vandalism is punishable by imprisonment in a county jail not exceeding one year, or by a fine ofnot more than one thousand dollars ($1,000), or by both that fine and imprisonment.
(B) If the amount of defacement, damage, or destruction is lessthan four hundred dollars ($400), and the defendant has beenpreviously convicted of vandalism or affixing graffiti or other inscribed material under Section 594, 594.3, 594.4, 640.5, 640.6, or 640.7, vandalism is punishable by imprisonment in a county jail for not more than one year, or by a fine of not more than five thousand dollars ($5,000), or by both that fine and imprisonment.
________________________________
ARREST DATE: 09/17/2005 TIME: 1525
LOC: 22313 MCCLARREN ST AGENCY: GRANDTERRACE CITY
RELEASE DATE: 09/17/2005 TIME: 1934
FACILITY:
NAME: LAST: POWERS FIRST: MICHAEL MIDDLE: BURTON DOB: 02/22/1980 SEX: M
RACE: W HT: 5 11 WT: 170 HAIR: MUL EYE COLOR: GRN
OCCUPATION: LOAD TRAINS
CHARGE TYPE SUPPL/HOLD BAIL DISPOSITION
PC594(B)(2)(A) MISD ORIGINAL $10,000.00 MISD-WARRANT
___________________________________________________________
PC594. (a) Every person who maliciously commits any of the following acts with respect to any real or personal property not his or her own, in cases other than those specified by state law, is guilty of vandalism: (1) Defaces with graffiti or other inscribed material. (2) Damages. (3) Destroys. Whenever a person violates this subdivision with respect to real property, vehicles, signs, fixtures, furnishings, or property belonging to any public entity, as defined by Section 811.2 of the Government Code, or the federal government, it shall be a permissive inference that the person neither owned the property nor had the permission of the owner to deface, damage, or destroy the property.
(b) (1) If the amount of defacement, damage, or destruction isfour hundred dollars ($400) or more, vandalism is punishable by imprisonment in the state prison or in a county jail not exceeding one year, or by a fine of not more than ten thousand dollars($10,000), or if the amount of defacement, damage, or destruction isten thousand dollars ($10,000) or more, by a fine of not more thanfifty thousand dollars ($50,000), or by both that fine and imprisonment.
(2) (A) If the amount of defacement, damage, or destruction is less than four hundred dollars ($400), vandalism is punishable by imprisonment in a county jail not exceeding one year, or by a fine ofnot more than one thousand dollars ($1,000), or by both that fine and imprisonment.
(B) If the amount of defacement, damage, or destruction is lessthan four hundred dollars ($400), and the defendant has beenpreviously convicted of vandalism or affixing graffiti or other inscribed material under Section 594, 594.3, 594.4, 640.5, 640.6, or 640.7, vandalism is punishable by imprisonment in a county jail for not more than one year, or by a fine of not more than five thousand dollars ($5,000), or by both that fine and imprisonment.
________________________________
Saturday, September 17, 2005
Arrest #4 in Month of September
BOOKING NUMBER: 0509300774
DATE: 09/15/2005 TIME: 1453
ARREST DATE: 09/15/2005 TIME: 1404
LOC: CANAL/MCCLAREN
AGENCY: GRANDTERRACE CITY
RELEASE DATE: 09/15/2005 TIME: 1713
FACILITY:
NAME:
LAST: ZOLL FIRST: DAVID MIDDLE: ANTHONY
DOB: 07/07/1983 SEX: M
RACE: W HT: 6 06 WT: 200 HAIR: MUL EYE COLOR: BRO OCCUPATION: UNEMPLOYED
CHARGE TYPE SUPPL/HOLD BAIL DISPOSITION
PC1320(A) MISD ORIGINAL $65,000.00 MISD-WARRANT
PC488 MISD ORIGINAL
PC853.7 MISD ORIGINAL
____________________________________________________________
Charge Detail
PC1320. (a) Every person who is charged with or convicted of thecommission of a misdemeanor who is released from custody on his or her own recognizance and who in order to evade the process of thecourt willfully fails to appear as required, is guilty of a misdemeanor. It shall be presumed that a defendant who willfully fails to appear within 14 days of the date assigned for his or her appearance intended to evade the process of the court.
PC488. Theft in other cases is petty theft.
PC853.7. Any person who willfully violates his or her written promise to appear or a lawfully granted continuance of his or her promise to appear in court is guilty of a misdemeanor, regardless of the disposition of the charge upon which he or she was originally arrested.
_______________________________
DATE: 09/15/2005 TIME: 1453
ARREST DATE: 09/15/2005 TIME: 1404
LOC: CANAL/MCCLAREN
AGENCY: GRANDTERRACE CITY
RELEASE DATE: 09/15/2005 TIME: 1713
FACILITY:
NAME:
LAST: ZOLL FIRST: DAVID MIDDLE: ANTHONY
DOB: 07/07/1983 SEX: M
RACE: W HT: 6 06 WT: 200 HAIR: MUL EYE COLOR: BRO OCCUPATION: UNEMPLOYED
CHARGE TYPE SUPPL/HOLD BAIL DISPOSITION
PC1320(A) MISD ORIGINAL $65,000.00 MISD-WARRANT
PC488 MISD ORIGINAL
PC853.7 MISD ORIGINAL
____________________________________________________________
Charge Detail
PC1320. (a) Every person who is charged with or convicted of thecommission of a misdemeanor who is released from custody on his or her own recognizance and who in order to evade the process of thecourt willfully fails to appear as required, is guilty of a misdemeanor. It shall be presumed that a defendant who willfully fails to appear within 14 days of the date assigned for his or her appearance intended to evade the process of the court.
PC488. Theft in other cases is petty theft.
PC853.7. Any person who willfully violates his or her written promise to appear or a lawfully granted continuance of his or her promise to appear in court is guilty of a misdemeanor, regardless of the disposition of the charge upon which he or she was originally arrested.
_______________________________
Concert in the Park
The Riverside Concert Band, played a wonderful concert at the Rollings Park. The Concert in the Park was attended by an estimated 500 people including very young to the very old. The welcoming aroma of kettle corn wafted over the park as you walked up to the soccer field. The quality of musician ship and the variety of music was enjoyable to all those in attendance.
The first thing the early arrival saw was a couple of large towers of speakers and a sound tent. Most people made the correct assumption that the amplification was going to be loud. It was. To sit any closer to the band would have damaged ones hearing.
There is no need to amplify a band of that size, IF the audience is listening. Yes a microphone may be needed to address the audience, or for a singer or narrative. However, Speakers big enough for a rock band do not say, hey we want the community sing to be a community sing. Nor does it say to the audience, welcome to our concert, please show the band respect and DON'T TALK while they are playing.
The appeal for funds for Katrina survivors was inappropriately preachy and potentially offensive to persons whom are not only Christian. Yes, believe it or not there are persons who are in addition to being Christians are Members of Other Faiths, as Some Faiths do not Exclude Christ's Teachings in order to accept the additional Teachings of "Their" religion.
The apparent give and take the Brook and the City have going on should become an issue with the citizens. The Brooks use of the Rollings Park and the City's Collaboration with their events may be excluding other NPO's from having similar opportunities.
Many people were offended by this segment of the program and left, some saying they would donate to the Red Cross on line rather than give The Brook or The City the satisfaction of raising the money and getting some kind of public approval for their actions.
Several positive comments were heard as people walked to their cars. Including the Following: " I wish they could have this once a month, and the soccer Club Earns All the Money". "I wish there was a dance floor." and finely, "We could have sat closer if there weren't speakers."
The cost of renting the speakers, and not having the advertising may make it possible for a concert to be held more often. There are several Community Bands in our area, Riverside Citrus Band (a Swing Band), the Inland Empire's Main Street Community Band, (of San Bernardino Area), and bands in Ontario, not to mention our own High School and Jr. High School Bands. Their concerts could be held in the park for a family event rather than the Multipurpose room which is typically overcrowded for the event.
Some of these Community Bands don't charge to play, some do. It would be nice if such events were provided without running up the expenses by unnecessary items such as excessive amplification equipment rental. It would have been nice if the park had planned a multifunction including a band shell/stage as part of the design of the restrooms, or snack bar. Single purpose Parks aren't the best use of Public Funds.
Community Concerts may be a replacement activity for July 4th if you ask one of the above bands early enough. Hold the Fireworks, pass the watermelon, music, and even songs. Have the sports teams sell all the concessions and do the hosting of the event. If all sports teams were involved, more parents and siblings would also come.
Assistant City Manager Steve Berry and Council Member Lee Ann Garcia were the only members of City Management who's attendance was publicly noted. Citizens patrol, the Grand Terrace Foundation, and the Book Sale from the Library were also there. Burt S for School Board and his minions, passed out campaign flyers. (I wonder if he had a permit to distribute his materials?)
Press Enterprise a sponsor of the event, was peddling subscriptions for $20.00 a year. Do they have a business license in the city? Did the other vendors have a proper business license for the city?
The Funds for this event came from the Blue Mt. Villas, Developer and Landscape People, Press Enterprise provided LOTS of advertisement. The BROOK provided the sing along books, and singers.
The first thing the early arrival saw was a couple of large towers of speakers and a sound tent. Most people made the correct assumption that the amplification was going to be loud. It was. To sit any closer to the band would have damaged ones hearing.
There is no need to amplify a band of that size, IF the audience is listening. Yes a microphone may be needed to address the audience, or for a singer or narrative. However, Speakers big enough for a rock band do not say, hey we want the community sing to be a community sing. Nor does it say to the audience, welcome to our concert, please show the band respect and DON'T TALK while they are playing.
The appeal for funds for Katrina survivors was inappropriately preachy and potentially offensive to persons whom are not only Christian. Yes, believe it or not there are persons who are in addition to being Christians are Members of Other Faiths, as Some Faiths do not Exclude Christ's Teachings in order to accept the additional Teachings of "Their" religion.
The apparent give and take the Brook and the City have going on should become an issue with the citizens. The Brooks use of the Rollings Park and the City's Collaboration with their events may be excluding other NPO's from having similar opportunities.
Many people were offended by this segment of the program and left, some saying they would donate to the Red Cross on line rather than give The Brook or The City the satisfaction of raising the money and getting some kind of public approval for their actions.
Several positive comments were heard as people walked to their cars. Including the Following: " I wish they could have this once a month, and the soccer Club Earns All the Money". "I wish there was a dance floor." and finely, "We could have sat closer if there weren't speakers."
The cost of renting the speakers, and not having the advertising may make it possible for a concert to be held more often. There are several Community Bands in our area, Riverside Citrus Band (a Swing Band), the Inland Empire's Main Street Community Band, (of San Bernardino Area), and bands in Ontario, not to mention our own High School and Jr. High School Bands. Their concerts could be held in the park for a family event rather than the Multipurpose room which is typically overcrowded for the event.
Some of these Community Bands don't charge to play, some do. It would be nice if such events were provided without running up the expenses by unnecessary items such as excessive amplification equipment rental. It would have been nice if the park had planned a multifunction including a band shell/stage as part of the design of the restrooms, or snack bar. Single purpose Parks aren't the best use of Public Funds.
Community Concerts may be a replacement activity for July 4th if you ask one of the above bands early enough. Hold the Fireworks, pass the watermelon, music, and even songs. Have the sports teams sell all the concessions and do the hosting of the event. If all sports teams were involved, more parents and siblings would also come.
Assistant City Manager Steve Berry and Council Member Lee Ann Garcia were the only members of City Management who's attendance was publicly noted. Citizens patrol, the Grand Terrace Foundation, and the Book Sale from the Library were also there. Burt S for School Board and his minions, passed out campaign flyers. (I wonder if he had a permit to distribute his materials?)
Press Enterprise a sponsor of the event, was peddling subscriptions for $20.00 a year. Do they have a business license in the city? Did the other vendors have a proper business license for the city?
The Funds for this event came from the Blue Mt. Villas, Developer and Landscape People, Press Enterprise provided LOTS of advertisement. The BROOK provided the sing along books, and singers.
Time for a New City Government
When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation ---
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.
--- That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed,
--- That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn, that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed.
But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security.
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.
--- That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed,
--- That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn, that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed.
But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security.
Friday, September 16, 2005
Planning Commission Delay:
The Grand Terrace Planning Commission and the Planning Departments Delay in approving the HAM Radio antenna brings to the forefront their incompetence. The Planning Commission has already forced the removal of a HAM Radio antenna in the history of Grand Terrace.
In that case the homeowner was cited by the then Code Enforcement Officer. The property owners appeal to the City Council landed on deaf ears. The property owner yielded to the pressures of the Code Enforcement Officer, and City Planner because they did not consult with the legal experts on the issue.
After 9/11 the need for alternative communications methods became clear to state and federal officials. Laws restricting the small town actions restricting the citizens right to put in a HAM Radio System were themselves restricted. The city has been here before. The former case was on the corner of Raven and Mt. Vernon Ave.
The Planning Department and the Planning Committee should have been well prepared and fully informed about the issues in regards to the current situation. This meeting was already delayed once by the applicant, the issues involved haven't changed. Yet our highly paid Planning Employees fail to prepare and to serve the common citizen. Now the Planning department has heard the "Visual Impact" and the "Lowers My Property Value" whines of neighbors. Yet when the same concerns are raised in regard to "The City's Preferred Development" they don't hold water. NOW the City wants to see how other towns regulate HAM Radios and antenna. This issues is not a surprise, why on earth had the city not done its preparation before the meeting?
The word is incompetence in the Planning Department. Here is the reality. The Planning Department is a direct reflection of the City Manager's Management of the City. He hires his friends for consultants, and city employees. They do his bidding, and operate at his personal direction. OFTEN citizens and future business owners will go to the Planning Desk for information and they are given a big shrug a smile and an "I don't know". Putting new business owners through Planning Department when they purchase an existing business is unnecessary bureaucracies and an impediment to the economic continuity of our city. This is our Planning Department as Managed By the City Manager Tom Schwab.
When a member of the Planning Department is also an Employee of a Company Contracted to the City to Provide services, there is a problem in the Planning Department. When the City "Rents" a member of the Planning staff a house for $500.00 per month, there is a problem. (now former employee). This is called Conflict of Interest and Corruption.
The HAM Radio antenna is only the symptom of a community bent on promoting an elitist ideal of ever increasing property values, a persnickety sense of aesthetics, and a restriction on the rights of individuals to enjoy to the fullest extent the use of their property. To quote Jim Miller, "No one guarantees your view from your property". That was in regards to the Blue Mt. Senior Villas... Let see how he responds to the current issue, when it is not a CITY PLANNED DEVELOPMENT or a Pet Project of City Manager Tom Schwab.
Lindy Ward, and Mario Mendoza should respect the rights of their neighbor to put in a HAM Radio Tower which may in the event of an Emergency Save Their Lives or be of service to the Community in a number of ways. I wonder if they would refuse such assistance knowing its came from such a communication device? May they never have a family member abroad during an emergency, or at war. May they never need the assistance in finding a loved one in a remote location serving as a missionary, or simply on a travel adventure.
To those who "Threaten to Move" if the Radio antenna Stays, good bye.
In that case the homeowner was cited by the then Code Enforcement Officer. The property owners appeal to the City Council landed on deaf ears. The property owner yielded to the pressures of the Code Enforcement Officer, and City Planner because they did not consult with the legal experts on the issue.
After 9/11 the need for alternative communications methods became clear to state and federal officials. Laws restricting the small town actions restricting the citizens right to put in a HAM Radio System were themselves restricted. The city has been here before. The former case was on the corner of Raven and Mt. Vernon Ave.
The Planning Department and the Planning Committee should have been well prepared and fully informed about the issues in regards to the current situation. This meeting was already delayed once by the applicant, the issues involved haven't changed. Yet our highly paid Planning Employees fail to prepare and to serve the common citizen. Now the Planning department has heard the "Visual Impact" and the "Lowers My Property Value" whines of neighbors. Yet when the same concerns are raised in regard to "The City's Preferred Development" they don't hold water. NOW the City wants to see how other towns regulate HAM Radios and antenna. This issues is not a surprise, why on earth had the city not done its preparation before the meeting?
The word is incompetence in the Planning Department. Here is the reality. The Planning Department is a direct reflection of the City Manager's Management of the City. He hires his friends for consultants, and city employees. They do his bidding, and operate at his personal direction. OFTEN citizens and future business owners will go to the Planning Desk for information and they are given a big shrug a smile and an "I don't know". Putting new business owners through Planning Department when they purchase an existing business is unnecessary bureaucracies and an impediment to the economic continuity of our city. This is our Planning Department as Managed By the City Manager Tom Schwab.
When a member of the Planning Department is also an Employee of a Company Contracted to the City to Provide services, there is a problem in the Planning Department. When the City "Rents" a member of the Planning staff a house for $500.00 per month, there is a problem. (now former employee). This is called Conflict of Interest and Corruption.
The HAM Radio antenna is only the symptom of a community bent on promoting an elitist ideal of ever increasing property values, a persnickety sense of aesthetics, and a restriction on the rights of individuals to enjoy to the fullest extent the use of their property. To quote Jim Miller, "No one guarantees your view from your property". That was in regards to the Blue Mt. Senior Villas... Let see how he responds to the current issue, when it is not a CITY PLANNED DEVELOPMENT or a Pet Project of City Manager Tom Schwab.
Lindy Ward, and Mario Mendoza should respect the rights of their neighbor to put in a HAM Radio Tower which may in the event of an Emergency Save Their Lives or be of service to the Community in a number of ways. I wonder if they would refuse such assistance knowing its came from such a communication device? May they never have a family member abroad during an emergency, or at war. May they never need the assistance in finding a loved one in a remote location serving as a missionary, or simply on a travel adventure.
To those who "Threaten to Move" if the Radio antenna Stays, good bye.
Wednesday, September 14, 2005
Go Forth and INFORM
The City of Grand Terrace has received a presentation which includes the removal of all or part of Grand Terrace Elementary School. Why disturb the historical first school in Our Community. So that MORE CARS can drive through our city, shop in big box stores and leave their tax dollars to pay for increased law enforcement needed perhaps because of the increased traffic, and big box stores including those which attract day labor camps.
The Plan disrupts both sides of Barton Road so that it can facilitate a larger freeway on ramp, and a wider freeway. Why not move the ramps so that only the south side of Barton Road is affected. Yes this would Preserve the School grounds except to the minimal intrusion along the freeway side of the campus. Yes, this would force the relocation of existing businesses, and the loss of property of the City's "Proffered Developers" the latter being the primary benefactors of the Development Plan.
First and foremost lets not give up our Historical School Site, and the Community Center the Lions Manage for the betterment of the Community. Secondly and equally as important lets see that the existing businesses are compensated fairly, and moved or included in the new plan so that there is no additional cost to them staying in our community.
Thirdly, lets make every effort to have the driveways and off-ramp to the Big Box stores all start and end on the Freeway and not through our town... Side entrances for Grand Terrace Traffic would be fine, but let's not encourage Barton Road to be used anymore than it is as a rush hour freeway bypass. The Construction of the Roads will be bothersome enough for the next 10 years or so.
In Conclusion. Don't let the City proceed with this Development Plan unless others are allowed to provide alternatives long before a "Preferred Developer" is selected. Let's hope that Developer will have a better Plan than the City's Past Schwabland OAC and the one Presented Last Week.
Inform Your School Board Members, State and Federal Representatives. Tell the City Council to Stop Tom Schwab and the CRA from this Madness..
The Plan disrupts both sides of Barton Road so that it can facilitate a larger freeway on ramp, and a wider freeway. Why not move the ramps so that only the south side of Barton Road is affected. Yes this would Preserve the School grounds except to the minimal intrusion along the freeway side of the campus. Yes, this would force the relocation of existing businesses, and the loss of property of the City's "Proffered Developers" the latter being the primary benefactors of the Development Plan.
First and foremost lets not give up our Historical School Site, and the Community Center the Lions Manage for the betterment of the Community. Secondly and equally as important lets see that the existing businesses are compensated fairly, and moved or included in the new plan so that there is no additional cost to them staying in our community.
Thirdly, lets make every effort to have the driveways and off-ramp to the Big Box stores all start and end on the Freeway and not through our town... Side entrances for Grand Terrace Traffic would be fine, but let's not encourage Barton Road to be used anymore than it is as a rush hour freeway bypass. The Construction of the Roads will be bothersome enough for the next 10 years or so.
In Conclusion. Don't let the City proceed with this Development Plan unless others are allowed to provide alternatives long before a "Preferred Developer" is selected. Let's hope that Developer will have a better Plan than the City's Past Schwabland OAC and the one Presented Last Week.
Inform Your School Board Members, State and Federal Representatives. Tell the City Council to Stop Tom Schwab and the CRA from this Madness..
Tuesday, September 13, 2005
Details of Development U Should Know
IF you own a business or property in an area being REDEVELOPED you should know.... The above.
You all Need to Read This Document
This Names the City of Grand Terrace as the "Developer". Who checks the City when it is the Developer, the County, State or FEDERAL Government.
Why is the City Representing "Grand Terrace Partners" as the "Developer"? Hasn't the Plan changed so significantly from the OAC that the "Project" should be put to OPEN BID for DEVELOPMENT CONCEPTS and Proposals?
Retirement Housing Project
SENIOR LIVING PROJECT
It is my understanding that if a project is altered drastically at the City Council Meeting stage it is sent back to the Planning Commission for approval. It is also my understanding that prior to projects being approved they are made public in order for citizens to comment.
Why wasn't this done at the last Council Meeting?
Legacy Posts
Grandpaterrace Thinks:
This City Council should have sent the Project Back to the Planning Department in order to have the proper procedure, and public notice of the changes accepted by the city being available for public review and consideration. The lack of proper procedure may be just cause for legal action against the project, the City Council, the City Legal Staff, and all involved in not insuring proper procedure was followed.
In addition, the linkage of contract, and the plan may be a point of future legal issues. The City Manager's Methods of not going to bid on CRA or City Projects is not sound management practices and may even be illegal in the use of federal and state redevelopment funds. This development will continue to be an issue of concern for the city for many years to come.
It is my understanding that if a project is altered drastically at the City Council Meeting stage it is sent back to the Planning Commission for approval. It is also my understanding that prior to projects being approved they are made public in order for citizens to comment.
Why wasn't this done at the last Council Meeting?
Legacy Posts
Grandpaterrace Thinks:
This City Council should have sent the Project Back to the Planning Department in order to have the proper procedure, and public notice of the changes accepted by the city being available for public review and consideration. The lack of proper procedure may be just cause for legal action against the project, the City Council, the City Legal Staff, and all involved in not insuring proper procedure was followed.
In addition, the linkage of contract, and the plan may be a point of future legal issues. The City Manager's Methods of not going to bid on CRA or City Projects is not sound management practices and may even be illegal in the use of federal and state redevelopment funds. This development will continue to be an issue of concern for the city for many years to come.
As part of the VLF payback to counties and cities, the following is the amount each county and city in the 31st Senate District will receive a refund.
San Bernardino County - $37,599,365 - Grand Terrace - $205,013
How will this be spend... paying for Curbs and Sidewalks for Big Box Retailers, Freeway Off Ramps, or... Youth Activities...
San Bernardino County - $37,599,365 - Grand Terrace - $205,013
How will this be spend... paying for Curbs and Sidewalks for Big Box Retailers, Freeway Off Ramps, or... Youth Activities...
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