Jacobsen/Schwab Revised Plan for Town Center

INSIST on a FULL DISCLOSURE OF

COST OF LAW ENFORCEMENT CAUSED BY

"DayWorker and Drunks Development"

LOWES and Bars and Grills

AES in the News:

AES Power Plan in today's Sun
http://www.sbsun.com/news/ci_4264473
The entire article is posted below the meeting announcement. Here is the problem I see.
........
The facility would be located at the northwest corner of Taylor and Pico streets in an industrially zoned area on the site of a former Southern California Edison power plant that was deactivated in 2003. The old power plant, which was built in 1954, will be demolished.

While the city is not the approving agency, it does have a say in the design, layout and other aspects of the project, City Manager Tom Schwab said.

"Just as any other project, we will keep an eye on the environmental impact report and make sure everything is in order," Schwab said.

GrampaTerrace Thinks:
Air Pollution Less than 15000 cars on the 60 freeway: Less than but ADDED TO
Noise Less than the Train HORN: LESS than but Added To
Chemical Risk: Less than but Added To the existing Rail Risk
Schwab's record of keeping an "EYE on the ENVRONMENTAL IMPACT". NOT REASSURING

AND NO MENTION of the PLAN TO PUT IN A HIGH SCHOOL... RIGHT NEXT TO THE SITE.

GIVEN ALL THE "Plans" PERHAPS the POWER PLANT gets a Thumbs UP and the HIGH SCHOOL is put somewhere else. PERHAPS several SMALLER SCHOOLS.

A little More Detail on the Derailment:

Article Launched: 8/30/2006 12:00 AM
In Brief 8-30-06
San Bernardino County Sun
GRAND TERRACE
Railroad crossing to be closed

The Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad crossing at Main Street between Transit and Commercial avenues will be closed from Thursday through Monday because of a train derailment last week.

At least nine cars carrying cargo containers left the tracks Saturday in Highgrove, an unincorporated area that borders Grand Terrace to the south, officials said.
Crews will be replacing the damaged tracks, forcing the crossing to be closed.

As an alternate route, commuters can use the Center Street crossing in Highgrove or bypass Main Street and proceed north up Michigan Avenue to Barton Road.

For more information, call the Community Services Department at (909) 430-2001.

GRAMPS SAYS:

THIS SHOULD CONCERN YOU. POWER PLANT, RAIL ROAD 3000 STUDENTS MOST DEPENDENT ON SCHOOL BUS FOR TRANSPORTATION + DERAILMENT OF A TOXIC CHEMICAL OR GAS = A PLANNED EVENT.

LOOK at the AES MEETING NOTICE THIS IS RIGHT NEAR BOTH THE AES and HIGH SCHOOL.

Remember: Replace & Recall & Reform

City Manager Tom Schwab: Council Member Ferre, Council Member Cortez, Council Member Garcia all chant the same misleading mantra trying to qualify themselves as being responsible financial managers of the city's Finances. "We have a "Reserve of 5 million"... or Nearly 5 Million depending on the rules for rounding up you may use.

*

Here is an interesting article showing the FICTION of their Financial Management.. Please Read it again. We all know having enough cash in the bank for the week or month is not a Measure of GOOD Financial Health. It is Clear the 4 of them want to Continue to Mislead the Public. The Question is... IS THIS WHAT THE PUBLIC WANTS?

Swartfeger Equipment & City Vs. Citizens of GT

Swartfiger Laughing while Citizen addressed the City Council

Swartfiger Equipment INC has a long history with the City of Grand Terrace and City Manager Tom Schwab. Here are a sample of Documents related to the concerns of the citizens. OF Course this will take Longer than 3 Minutes to Read or even to think about. These Documents have been MINED out of City Records.











Swartfeger Equipment Inc. and the City's Management repeatedly fail to Protect Citizens and abide by the Conditions of Operation in their Permits and Regulations. Citizens bringing fortth their concerns have been ridiculed, by Swartfiger and their Management, and this was allowed by the Council Member Ferre as she performed her duties of Mayor. In addition The City Staff headed by City Manager Tom Schwab allowed these citizen concerns to be neglected or disregarded for month after month after month.

This disregard of Citizens Concerns is part of the "Your Comments are Duly Noted" attitude of this Council and City Management that needs to be Reformed. Because the Current Acting Mayor Ms. Ferre repeats that "She is Just" following the Rules... Law of how to conduct the meetings and none of the Council seem willing to challenge or change the current practices there is Need to REPLACE & RECALL & REFORM the Government of Grand Terrace.

The above Documents support the Concerns of the Citizens regarding the Operations of Concern. Swertfeger's Equipment, Inc. of Grand Terrace, California .

Citizens should be protected from excessive noise, dust and fumes, regardless of the zone of the operations. Land use in Grand Terrace is regulated. Well, it may be regulated for Some People and not Others... as we are beginning to learn.

From the Email InBox: Reason to Recall Garcia

Dear Gramps: I find it most interesting that ALL of the cash contributors to Lee Ann Garcia were on the SAME date 12-14-04 including Doug Jacobsen, his broker Jan Brunn of Lee & Associates and the Building Industry Association shown as "BIA" and that was the SAME month that the exclusive development agreement to Jacobsen was voted on by the city council before their Christmas party.

Wouldn't it be interesting to look at those votes, and the dates of each of those check "contributions"? If the checks were before the vote, they could BUY the vote, if they were after the vote they could say THANKS for your vote. OR was it, just cash on the table?

Folks does this look like the appearance of conflict of interest? Do you understand why Garcia must be recalled? This woman is bought and paid for by the supporters as shown and -- by where she spends her extra time off work.

The ethics course will be an eye opener for some of these council persons who do not understand "no conflict of interest" -- except themselves.

http://ag.ca.gov/ethics/index.htm You can use the interactive course or the non interactive one. IF you are in office or running for office you may want to take this course and get certified.

As Grand Terrace Mayor Lee Ann Garcia said, "The future of government is collaboration." Now the counties, cities and schools need to figure out how
to get there.

http://www.calpolicyreform.net/esummaries/072503/index.htm

Conference Manager
Lee Ann Garcia
22997 Jensen Court, Grand Terrace, CA 92313
Phone: (909) 783-0922
Fax: (909) 783-1880
Email: leeann03@pacbell.net

Gramps says: YES ETHICS TRAINING and the PUT THAT TRAINING TO PRACTICE. REMEMBER it is not the JOB of the PUBLIC or the Blog to PROVE there is a Law Broken, it is to call attention to the suspicion. IT is the Job of Law Enforcement, to take action on the report of a possible crime, and the COURT to Hear the Case, and a JURY to Convict or Not.

Collaboration between Levels of Government. The State Will Approve a Power Plant for AES, the City Will Sell the School District Formerly Zoned Light INDUSTRIAL ZONED Property, and the Colton Joint Unified School District will Build a High School for 3000 students and Staff, all in the same block and effectively adjacent to Railroad Tracks where Chemicals in Large Tanks will be traveling.

Will there be an evacuation Plan of having sufficient Buses and drivers ON SITE During School Hours, for immediate Evacuation in the Event of A chlorine Tanker Spill, or Derailment? To Concentrate a Population of Students in the area of high risks is asking for a disasters, more predictable than an Earth Quake.

Yes a New High School Is Needed. However, this proposed site, has risks and traffic flow problems that have not been well thought out.

Schwab Said: No Deal, but Offers Continue.... Jo Not Released from ED

Jo Stringfield Citizen Property Owner: has been subject to repeated, repeated, repeated "offers" under the continued threat of Eminent Domain and the Threat of Eminent Domain has Not been Reversed officially by Legal Notice, so it is still an Option in the Bag of Schwab/Jacobsen Tricks.

What other Non Disclosed Terms and Conditions to the "Deal" being Offered, but not Written Down is interesting. Perhaps these Terms would be an embarrassment to the RDA/CITY and or Jacobsen Family Holdings if they were Disclosed and Made PUBLIC.

It is to late to remove the City and RDA and Schwab from the Entanglement of this Development and Pressure on the Citizen Land Owners. What EVER Jo Decides is UP to HER. Clearly her quality of life has changed, her neighbors and their homes are all gone.

HOWEVER: THIS COURSE OF ACTION AND PRACTICE OF THE CITY/RDA SHOULD NOT BE ALLOWED TO HAPPEN AGAIN IN THE CITY OF GRAND TERRACE.

July & Aug Arrests are In July Posts..

If you like many email-ers are missing the arrests I posted them as a continuation of the July Post. This puts Arrests in one Place...

http://grandterracenews.blogspot.com/2006/07/arrests-July-2006-august-2006.html

This list is very specific so it kind of makes it better to keep it together... I think...

Please note that DRUGS and alcohol misuse are the most frequent reason for an arrest.

More Places to Stop and Get Drunk will not Help this Crime and Social Problem in GT.

restaurants that are Dressed up Bars and Grills, or Drug Stores that are actually Dressed up Liquor Stores WE don't need more of.

Perhaps a chuck's Cheese, or a Kid Friendly Theme restaurant that would be a complement to California Skate, and the Elementary School. Would be a development that would be an asset to the community. Perhaps a Activity Center / restaurant that is Teen Friendly and Family Friendly... A DDR/ Skate Park Activity Center , salad /Salsa Bar with Healthy foods and activities... ... Just a thought... Not that we have any IDEAS.. How about a Town carousel made out of Bikes or Trikes free to use and let it generate power...

Train Derailment Near Proposed Grand Terrace High School

There was yet another derailment on Saturday, just south of Grand Terrace in the Highgrove area, was cleared by Sunday morning.

This is the second derailment in less than 4 months in the area of GT and Highgrove. Lets remember the proximity of the working Rail Tracks and the AES Power Station, and the Proposed Grand Terrace High School. It is one thing to risk Adults in a "Industrial or Commercial Facility" to the risks inherent to the location. IT is entirely something else to risk the lives of up to 3000 students many of whom will need transportation if there were a need to evacuate the Proposed High School due to a Damaged Fuel or Chemical Tank.

Perhaps all the Planners should look at this Perfect Storm of a Problem.

Plan No Plan Who's Got the Plan? And an Email on Plans

PLANS : PLAN ?


Recent Comments at the City Council Meeting by Mr. Chuck Hornsby made me rethink or recall that there are or were many deficiencies in the General Plan, (no up to date Housing Element, no traffic plan, and so forth), and that there were clear conflicts with the Jacobsen Proposal and the Barton Road Specific Plan, and the Barton Road Specific Plan and the General Plan, and of course the OAC Specific Plan and the General Plan. Does any one know if the "General Plan" is Current? That is requirement #1. Does any one know if the Barton Road Specific Plan is still "Enforceable". Of course we have seen not even Zoning is taken seriously so why should we be concerned with a Plan. Here we are, as a result of some sort of "Management".






From the Email In Box I was given a short review of the Plans:

Dear Gramps:

Elimination of blight in other cities has been resolved through the actions of private enterprise alone. It has only required stable, written, & uniform building standards and zoning laws fairly applied & equally applicable zoned sites within the city boundaries, no matter the ownership.

The 1979 Redevelopment Plan told residents that we the benefits to the community would be that citizens would get:
Public facilities
Roads
Other Public improvements
Improvements to the quality of the environment
Promoting sound development
Correction of inadequate street layout
Housing for families of all income levels
Economic revitalization
Elimination of blight
Redevelopment in conformity with the General Plan (1979:2)
Promote public peace, public health, public safety & the public welfare of the community (1979:2)
Low & moderate income housing

In 1981 Redevelopment Project we were told that we would get: (from adding all of town)
To provide land for public improvements & facilities (1981:2.f)
Conserve the project area as specified in the Redevelopment Plan (1981:2.b)
Eliminate environmental deficiencies, including substandard streets (1981:2.d)
Eliminate deteriorated public improvements; (1981:2.d)
Community can maintain & improve quality of life (1981:2)
Promote productive use of land within the guidelines of the cityÂ’s general plan (1981:2.e)
Financial resources for necessary public improvements & facilities. (1981:2.g)
Expand employment opportunities (1981:2.k)
Provide additional housing for all segments of the community. (1981:2.l)
Public improvements, public facilities (1981:4.7)

5 year plan
Provide adequate streets, curbs, gutters & drainage
Street lights
Improved pedestrian & vehicular circulation
Improve appearance of streets & parking
Provide land for parking & open space.
Enhance civic, community & cultural functions
High site design standards
Cause the under-grounding of unsightly overhead utility lines.
Provide land for public use and facilities. (1981:2.f)
Develop the project area as specified in the Redevelopment Plan (1981:2.b)

More on Jacobsen Family's Town Center - Last Known Plan(s)

Barton Road Plot Plan A-33: Talking points

Plan does not conform to the general plan.
Plan does not conform to the Barton Road specific plan.
Plan does not conform to the City Municipal Codes.
Plan has inadequate parking throughout, does not meet zoning code.
Intensity of the plot plan is too intense for this site.
Site it too small for buildings with uses as shown.
Land building ratio is too high.
Plan shows multiple variances and special exception to rules.
Outdoor sales area need to be calculated as retail sales area, also needs parking.
The center does not have total sufficient parking to meet building codes.
No attempt has been made to fashion the plot plan to the existing surrounding uses.
Loading docks are too close to retirement senior home.
Truck deliveries are to close and adjacent to multifamily & R-1 areas.
No attempt has been made to incorporate existing good quality retail uses on site.
No buffer zone is established between existing residential use & high semi-truck deliveries.
The pad parcels do not have parking sufficient for restaurant use and to meet code.
As the pad parcels will be separately divided & sold, so they must meet their code parking requirement ON site.
The drive through fast food restaurants will cause traffic to back-up on public streets.
No traffic studies have been done showing feasibility for drive thru use.
No changes to zoning have been done to allow drive thru for fast food
What ordinances were passed allowing drive-through restaurants, & when?
High intensity of use will damage surrounding areas with noise, air pollution,
traffic congestion and toxic water runoff from so large a sea of asphalt.

The delivery lanes for trucks should not be obscured by parking spaces.
The semi delivery trucks do not have sufficient turn around area.
Drive through delivery for semi-trucks should be provided, not dead ends.
There is inadequate access for fire or emergency vehicles especially in the rear.
There is no buffer zone between high use truck delivery areas and residential uses,
especially the existing senior housing at The Terraces.

Second story library would have reduced use, visibility & limited handicap access.
Library building should be completely separated from buildings storing flammable chemicals,
like Lowe's; and away from potential day labor gathering places.

No pedestrian friendly areas have been provided to incorporate the center to the town.
Community quality of life is not improved or maintained.

No environmental sensitivity has been used to incorporate the center into the community,
driving patterns, traffic patterns or quality of life.


Legal issues:
Maximum number of participants are not involved.
Maximum number original owners are not re-entering the project area.
Maximum number of existing tenants are not represented or re-entering the project area.
Preferences have not been given to long time land owners as required by the 1981 plan.
Long term owners were not offered participation, purchase or redevelop. of agency land.
Participation of 1981 owners was to have be absent competition first, to abide by the plan.
Alternative site plans have not been considered from 1981 priority owners.
Alternate redevelopment plans have not been sought from priority owners or current tenants.
Agency land is proposed to be sold in secret without notice or opportunity to purchase given to existing 1981 owners as required by the plan.


2005 Development Agreement does not prevent speculation as required by the 1981 plan.
(i.e. only Jacobsen can make money selling to Stater's & Lowe's)
Agency is not exercising their rights & responsibilities to ensure the plan meets the rules.
Highest public good is not being served by site plan A-33.

The 1981 Redevelopment rules are being thrown out to accommodate the plan.
Community does not maintain & improve quality of life as required by the plan.
Replacement housing has not been provided to displaced residents in the project area.
Housing needs in Grand Terrace have not been met.
City owes state housing fund compliance in housing units and/or money or both.


Get copies of:
Resolution PC-81-02 January 12, 1981
Any ordinances or resolutions permitting drive-through fast food restaurants.
Copies of any traffic studies within last 5 years.
Any staff reports concerning traffic, traffic planning concerned with drive through use.


Tidbits from my reading of city documents: Senior Housing DATA

1981 redevelopment plan page 46
(e) "The maximum number of dwelling units permitted in the Project Area is governed by the land use plan."

(f) The amount of open space is . . . as shown on the attached Land Use Map."
(g) Limitation on type, size & height of buildings . . . shall be as limited by the City Municipal Code."
(h) light air privacy, etc.

Page 49 (j) Variances (for city projects only--haha)
"(3) Permitting a variation will not be materially detrimental to the public welfare of injurious to property or improvements in the area."
(4) Permitting a variation will not be contrary to the objective of this Plan, or grant a special privilege."
"No variation shall be granted which changes a basic land use or which permits other than a minor departure from the provisions of this Plan."
Page 50 incompatible use, etc.

IT IS BECOMING CLEAR:

City Manager Tom Schwab's Contract Changes this year included a stipulation that if he were terminated not at his choosing he will be paid IN CASH for all his unused SICK LEAVE, AND get one year Medical Insurance. SICK LEAVE is not an EARNED RIGHT the same as Vactation LEAVE. IT is HOPED no one needs to use SICK LEAVE.






WAS this stipulation added because he expects he will be terminated by a New City Council and he USED the current City Council to ease the pain of losing a Job that provides a House, an Income of 150.000/ per year and full benefits?

Isn't he Special. Don't we all wish we could write ourselves such a deal with our employers and have it accepted. He renegotiated his contract, EVEN after obviously telling them false information. HE is good at seeing to his interests.

Given recent accounting "flexibility", one must wonder how many days of leave have been used and not recorded. Is the golden good by of paying for unused leave bloated? How much will it cost the City to Rid us of his "Management" under this skillfully negotiated "Contract"?

Perhaps there is a way to challenge this labor contract. Perhaps it is not a termination if He is in Jail and can't come to work? What will it take?

From the Email Inbox: IT'S NOT JUST ABOUT THE CAR

Subject: IT'S NOT JUST ABOUT THE CAR

To: Grand PaTerrace

Perhaps some of you folks are wondering why I kept asking the City about the 1996 Ford Crown Victoria that the City bought for Tom Schwab. My original document request asked for the deposition of the vehicles that were either traded in or sold when the City buys Mr. Schwab a new one and the amount they were sold for.

When I picked up the documents Mrs. Martinez told me there was no record of what happened to this particular City owned vehicle. Mrs. Martinez I hold blameless. She can only repeat what Mr. Schwab tells her to say.

Needless to say, I couldn't believe that City Hall (Mr. Schwab) had no record of what happened to a four door sedan owned by the City. What was the reason for this obvious lie.

So three times I went into the podium because it no longer was about just the vehicle, it was about yet another lie from the City Manager. " I have seen the long term signed leases" That was his statement at a Council meeting when questioned about a newspaper article. As we all know Jack Brown, president of Stater Brothers went into the podium and said " Jack Brown has signed nothing". We now know that Lowes had signed nothing. Yet Mr. Schwab said at a Council meeting he had sat in Mr. Jacobsens office and had seen the signed long term leases.

The Developer Agreement ran out on the 15TH of August. All the time extensions,everything. But at the Council meeting of the 24TH of August Mr. Schwab choose to ignore the question. If the Agreement has run out how can Mr. Jacobsen still be a consideration and going to have a new plan in 90 days? All his 90 days are up. In July there was a parcel of RDA land transferred to Mr. Jacobsen without the required by law public hearing. Why? Is Grand Terrace above the law? All the lawsuits seem to answer that one.

August 10TH I asked at Council to have Mr. Schwab make clear the status of the Senior Housing. Ms. Silverstein stood before this community and said that the apartments were to be for low to moderate income Seniors. Mr Schwab said the same thing many times. She said it at a Community meeting, a Planning Commission meeting and at two Council meetings and said our seniors would be on a list. Mrs. Harford is under the impression that our Seniors will qualify and that JoAnn Johnson will be the manager. The Corporation for Better Housing has their own management company.

Our City put in $9,000,000 on the $18,000,000 on the no open bid contract. State law requires open bids on anything over $5000. The Corporation for Better Housings part of the funds comes from the Government that requires the Senior Housing be Section 8 housing. In fact after the deal was done Ms. Silverstein was quoted in the newspapers as saying the Senior Housing was going to be now for low to low low incomes.

This, I am very sure, would eliminate most if not all of our Seniors from consideration for an apartment there. I went on the Corp for Better Housing website and called all their locations. Everyone of them is Section 8 housing so why would the Blue Mountain Villa's be different.

At the August 10 and and August 24TH Council meeting Councilman Miller and myself requested of Mr. Schwab to tell the community the truth about the Seniors Housing. He had to know from the outset of this project that it was Section 8 housing and just let our Seniors believe that they would qualify to get their support. At the August 24TH meeting Mr. Schwab choose to ignore the question.

Are you starting to catch on here folks. What I want to make clear is that four of the Council members were aware of the car deal. Councilman Miller was not and had asked questions also. Mr Miller also shared my concerns on the Senior Housing the rest of the Council sat there like gagged monkeys.

When any citizen comes into the podium and ask questions that are without a doubt being answered with lies or not all it's time for the Mayor to do her job. She should have instructed Mr. Schwab to answer about the car and the Senior Housing. By not doing so leads us to believe she is part and the enabler of the lies. Less we forget the Dodson property deal where she told the community that "no reportable action was taken" when in fact Councilman Hilkey said that a deal was done within ten minutes with former Councilman Carlstrom, owner of Terra Loma Reality and employer of Councilwoman Cortes and former Planning Commissioner Bidney.Mr. Hilkey stated at Council we paid too much for a piece of property the City did not need. Mr. Carlstrom now manages the property. It is if not interesting if not un-nerving to see how many parcels of property Mr. Carlstrom was given by the City to sell. They are even those that he has sold to the RDA and when the RDA found they could not be rehabbed they where then given to Mr. Carlstrom to sell again.

Here's a question that should bring more questions about the Dodson's property deal and possible conflicts. Before Mr. Schwab bought his RDA house with whom did he reside. Perhaps the other blogger in Grand Terrace would like to go into the podium and ask that."The Truth?" "You Can't Handle The Truth". Thanks Bogie.

Now are you getting the picture and why there are some of us that go into the podium and question. What shocks me is that we have a majority of a Council that are well aware of the repeated lies being told to the community and they tacitly give their approval. So, It's not about the car. It's about the lies and most likely illegal sale of a city owned vehicle. Why else would there "be no record" when Tom Schwab knew good and well what he did with a city owned vehicle and lied and made other people be part of the lie and finally be made at a council meeting to tell the truth.

You see why the recalls are important. Until there is a change brought about and the good honest citizens stand up and say enough of this "good ol boy" stuff we will just go on being over run by developers that contribute to Council members campaigns and City functions and get their projects approved over the objections of the hundreds of voters that have raised their voices. We don't disagree with development. We disagree with the way it is done. If everything was being done honestly and legally and in the open there would be no need to lie. When the Council allows this to happen all one can think is that they approve and are a party to it. It is time for a Federal Grand Jury investigation.

The car? It was sold to the assistance City manager. Anyone out there know about that and when the open bidding was on a piece public property. You think maybe that's why Mr. Schwab wouldn't answer what happened to it?

Bill Hays

Gramps adds:

Bill you are correct, and what else is under the iceburg. What the Citizens have discovered, watched, and become aware of is only the tip of the iceburg I fear. But, as with any fear it is better to inform one's self, and deal with the total problem. It is clear a Full Audit and Investigation of the City and City Manager is Due. Perhaps this information on the Car will result in a REAL Investigation into the actions of the City Manager, City Council, and "Friends" of the Council.

3 Minute Mayor Disregards Request to Speak on Agenda Item:

Cindi Bidney reports that she had submitted two requests to speak. One on an agenda item, approval of the last Council Minutes and the second for a Public Comment related to the Eminent Domain Reform Ordinance.

NO one knew about the Mayor Skipping over her first request to speak, but the issue is important, so I will fill you in.

Last night I submitted a request to speak to amend the minutes to include Angelica Baltazar' presentation to the City Council from the County of San Bernardino Department of public Health.

Once again Mrs. Ferre railroaded the agenda and skipped a speaker request. She consulted with the City Attorney about making the prior changes requested to the minutes before clearing that no one else had a request to speak to the minutes item. She got her answer and then requested a motion to have the minutes revised, as to the Swartfiger Trailer Repair Issues in particular.

What Ms. Bidney wanted was a more inclusive presentation of what Mrs. Baltazar had a lot to say about the ill-health of our community and the need to increase activity for all of our children is a matter of record. She quoted facts that had been presented before, but ignored. Her comments seemed to be disregarded by the council and were not reflected sufficiently in the minutes for historical reference.

The Agenda Item was Moved to be rewritten, and Ms. Bidneys request to speak on the minutes summarily dismissed or disregarded from that point.

Ms. Bidney has requested that the minutes be revised on this subject to council members and the city clerk it is hoped that the revised minutes will reflect a more inclusive representation of the statements and facts presented.

THEN the Exchange of the 3 Minutes happened when it was time to present the Eminent Domain Limitation Ord.

Mayor Ferre words welcomed people to the meeting, her actions demonstrate a different tact.

3 Minutes

Mayor Ferre interrupted a speaker while that speaker was asking for possible slight extension to reading a page of practiced material and a summary without being interrupted. BUT, the Mayor Ferry was compelled to INTERJECT that Ms Bidney would only be given 3 minutes.

Ms. Bidney managed to read the Proposed Ordinance Change, to Protect Private Property from Eminent Domain Abuse by the RDA and the City. She was starting her Summary when Mayor Ferry had to INTERJECT. PLEASE SUMMARIZE.

This NEED to Interject during an obvious Statement, and what is clearly a Summary is simply RUDE, attention getting, and it is a distraction to the speaker, and those listening.

Mayor Ferre, allowed the back and forth between Mr. Hilkey to go on and on, and on. The topic was not one that the city was going to resolve. It was interesting, but a distraction it is not like you will get a reduction on your electric bill.

Mayor Ferre, you aren't fair to everyone, you are rude to many, including other Council Members. Your March through the Agenda, and avoid discussion of topics not supported by staff is stifling to the process of governance. It is time for a New Mayor, and person with a different style of "Management" of the Meetings. A person with a broader skill set other than watching the clock and being a time keeper.

"RESERVES of 5Million" Dipped into..

It was for a refund TAB and was shown on the voucher at $1,650,709.35. To pay off debt

At the AUG 24, 2006 City Council Meeting there was an item on the Vouchers to be approved in the amount of $1,650,709.35. Now for those of you who are decimal challenged that is 1.6 Million. of the 5, or some times 4.8 million "RESERVE FUNDS" often referred to as proof of the city's financial health.

What was that money spent on... DEBT INTEREST PAYMENT... YES... DEBT INTEREST PAYMENT... DEBT that the City HAS as a RESULT of City Manager / RDA Director TOM SCHWAB's Actions which have been Approved by the City Council/RDA Board of Directors.

That is 1.6 million from WHERE? IF there weren't a DEBT would that MONEY have been available for other uses?

Thank You Council Member Miller for calling attention to the Voucher and its purpose. We Citizens would appreciate if the Voucher List was on the web along with the AGENDA... Perhaps you can make that happen for us.

Did YOU HEAR FERRE and GARCIA support Limits on Eminent Domain?

NO... me either.

In statements to the press they insinuated that Eminent Domain use in Grand Terrace was not going to happen. Well, now we may assume that is still an option as they did not voice support of giving a Measure to Limit Eminent Domain Use in Grand Terrace. Ladies you can't have it both ways. THIS is WHY you are being RECALLED...

Getting OFF of the Grid:

How can the City Government Impact your Power Bill.

Well there is no direct linkage between the two agencies. HOWEVER.

The City Can Eleminate the Requirement that All Homes be Connected to the Grid and have "POWER" on in order to be occupied.

Most People will not live off the Grid, but being Forced to Build ON the Grid, and Live on the Grid perpetuates the Dependency and the "INDEPENDENCE" of the Power Company.

New Development should be incouraged to be Solar Powered, and either Power Generators or OFF the Grid. CITY can Sponsor LOANS can be made available for HOME POWER SYSTEMS... to existing HOMES and BUSINESSES. The CITY as an Agency can DO SOMETHING about how we get power, and how we use power.

Flexing your Power... may mean to use a different source of power, and removing the REQUIREMENT FOR OCCUPANCY.

People all over the world live without the Grid... and some even with out power... Now I know this is not the desired outcome... However, when you hook up to a GRID, you pay what THEY SAY. IT IS TIME that the GRID be told we can live with you or without you...

The CITY can SAY that.

AES What we know now

We know we won't be getting any more money.
We know we won't be getting the power, (Directly) It is part of the Giant Grid.
We know we will be getting noise, heat and air pollution.
We know we will be putting fuel and chemicals near the proposed High School
We know that the City Departments of Planning, and the Sheriff's Department have provided input which is supportive to the AES Project's Application.
We know that the City has not included the information that the High School is an intended neighbor to the facility.
We know that the City Staff is trying to shrug off their ability to have an inpact on the issue.

Patricia Farley did point out the City has the responsibility to raise the issues, so that future action can be taken if necessary. The City's Silence on the matters of concern will limit future actions if they are needed.

IF YOU WANT TO KNOW MORE HERE IS WHERE TO START: Recommended Reading for CJUSD School Board, Planning Dept, City Council Members, and Citizens.. Apparently City Manager Tom Schwab is not interested nor does he intend to keep the community and council informed.

AES Highgrove Power Plant Project
Power Plant Licensing Case

http://www.energy.ca.gov/sitingcases/highgrove/index.html

and documents

http://www.energy.ca.gov/sitingcases/highgrove/documents/index.html


ANNOUNCEMENTS
September 19, 2006
Public Informational Hearing and Site Visit

June 23, 2006
Data Adequacy Recommendation
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Also see our
Energy Calendar
Docket Number: 06-AFC-2
(Application For Certification)

Committee Overseeing This Case:

Jackalyne Pfannenstiel, Commissioner
Chair and Presiding Member

Jeffrey Byron, Commissioner
Associate Member

Hearing Officer: Garret Shean
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Key Dates

July 19, 2006 - Commission accepts Application for Certification (AFC) as complete.
May 25, 2006 - Application for Certification (AFC) filed with California Energy Commission


General Description of Project

The AES Highgrove Project is a proposed 300-megawatt (MW) peaking power plant facility consisting of three natural-gas-fired turbines and associated equipment. The facility will be located at 12700 Taylor Street, in an industrially zoned area in the City of Grand Terrace, San Bernardino County, on the site of a power plant formerly owned by Southern California Edison (SCE). The project will consist of demolition of the old plant and constructing the new Highgrove facility on property that was once used by the former generating station for fuel oil storage.



Energy Commission Facility Certification Process

The Energy Commission's facility certifications process carefully examines public health and safety, environmental impacts and engineering aspects of proposed power plants and all related facilities such as electric transmission lines, natural gas pipelines, etc. The Energy Commission's responsibilities and similar to those of a lead agency under the California Environmental Quality Act (CECA). Because the project will interconnect with Western's high voltage transmission line, the review will be completed jointly with Western, the federal lead agency for project.

For More Information, Please Contact:

Robert Worl
Project Manager
California Energy Commission
1516 Ninth Street, MS-15
Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: 916-651-8853
E-mail: rworl@energy.state.ca.us

For Questions About Participation In Siting Cases Contact:

Margret J. Kim
Public Adviser
California Energy Commission
1516 Ninth Street, MS-12
Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: 916-654-4489
Toll-Free in California: 1-800-822-6228
E-mail: PAO@energy.state.ca.us

News Media Please Contact:

Claudia Chandler
Assistant Executive Director
Media & Public Communications Office
Phone: 916-654-4989
E-mail: mediaoffice@energy.state.ca.us

Planning: AES and the High School

Planning seems to be a continued problem in Grand Terrace, and now it has encroached onto the Colton Joint Unified School District.

When the RDA began to aquire property in the "Industrial" area of Grand Terrace it eliminated local jobs, and a buffer between the power plant and the non Industrial Uses. AKA HOMES.

Thinking the Power Plant would be moth balled and because no one was interested at a higher use, the Light Industial property was sold to CJUSD for a High School.

Then, with an ever increasing need for power, the proposal for a Peaker Plant at the Gage Power Facility came up.

These two uses adjacent to one another seem to be at conflict with one another.. Gee ya think?

Let's see. Fule and Chemical Storage, Polution including, Heat, Noise, and Air, Traffic Flow, and A High School. HMMM Interesting Mix. ALSO note to self. Rail Track is USED and will add to noise levels at the High School.

Perhaps the old Lumber Yard, and Manufactureing and Farming, YES I said Farming was the best use of that land.... PERHAPS we have PLANNED ourselves right out of the best use of that area of town.

It will be interesting.

Trucking Trailer Repair and Sale Operations Still and Issue

The Swartsfiger Trailer Repair Facility continues to be an issue for the Neighbors. Tonight a representative from the Facility was on hand to chastise their neighbors for being a bother to her parents, and the business. Citizens and neighbors to the facility asked that the recorded statements in the minutes be corrected to represent the statements made, and they requested that the City enforce the Conditional Use Permit restrictions.

It would be interesting to know what in their mind constitutes a bother.

Ms. West the from the facility, said that the property is Commercial, "What do you expect when you live next to commercial Property". Well, the zoning of "Commercial" is different than INDUSTRIAL and or Light Manufacturing. Operations are to begin, and end at certain hours, noise and other pollution should be contained to the property, and so forth, THAT is what is expected. Those Expectations are Codified in the City ordinances for Noise, and Occupancy Permits.

SO IF the CITY was holding the Trailer Repair Company to operate in accordance to its Occupancy Permits, and the Truck and Trailer Repair Shop was in conformance then the Bothered Neighbors would be just that.

Barking Dogs, Loud Music, excessive noise from any land use should be considered as it is pollution and adds to the stress level of the community. Hours of Noise and Operations are included in all types of land use in GT.

I agree with Mr. Miller, all the problems should be set out and detailed and resolved one by one. Stopping the you bug me, you bother me, you harass us back and forth as that resolves and corrects nothing.

Code Enforcement should restrict the Operations back to the Current Permits, and enforce that operational level. Variances to be made only after applied for, and approved via the proper procedure. A sit down with the parties of interest will help identify the areas where variances are needed, and may or may not be acceptable to the neighbors.

NOW WE KNOW THE CAR:

NOW we know more about the Missing Car.

TOM SCHWAB provided some more information but no documentation on the FORD Crown Victoria. IT was purchased by a city employee (Assistant City Manager Steve Berry) for allegedly 1500.00 more than the "Trade IN" Offer from the dealer when City Manager TOM Schwab went out to by himself a new car, at City Expense.

WELL. HERE is the problem. THAT TRANSACTION is ILLEGAL. FIRST, the City has not shown receipts of the transaction. Was there actually money received from Steve Berry for the purchase of the Car? WAS that money deposited into the City's BANK Account? This is part of the record requested and still not provided to the requester.

THEN we must bring out that such a purchase is in fact an illegal disposal of City Property.

City Property to be disposed has to be done in a particular sequence and procedure. IT does not include a back room negotiation for a city employee to benefit from the sale and or purchase of city or public property.

SO the Car ISSUE is not resolved, it has just come to a new chapter. All is not right with the Car Deal.

City Property of any value should be disposed of at an auction where it is available to all the public to bid on the property. The Proceeds would be paid to the City. In addition, such sales may actually exclude City Employees as being eligible bidders as they may have "Insider" information which makes their participation in such purchases to be an Ethics Question and perhaps not allowed by law. Further information needed on this issue.

AES and the CITY STAFF

HOW and WHAT materials have the City Staff and the Sheriff's Department provided in Support of the AES Proposed Plan.

THESE documents suggest the RAPID RESPONCE TIME OF THE SHERIFF, and also it does not include the closure of Taylor/Pico.

Eminent Domain Reform Proposed:

Eminent Domain Reform was brought to the City Council tonight. The Proposed Ordinance read the following.

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF GRAND TERRACE, CALIFORNIA
THE PEOPLE OF THE CITY OF GRAND TERRACE HEREBY ORDAIN AND
ENACT AS FOLLOWS:

Title 2, Division 3 of the Codified Ordinances (Ordinance 187) of The City of Grand Terrace is replaced in full as follows:

Whereas: Section 1. This ordinance shall be known and may be cited as AN ORDINANCE PROHIBITING THE EXERCISE OF EMINENT DOMAIN FOR PRIVATE PURPOSES.

Whereas: Section 2. The City of Grand Terrace may not exercise the power of eminent domain to acquire property from any private Owner thereof, without such Owner’s consent, when the purpose of the acquisition is to convey the property so acquired to any private party.

Whereas: As used in this section, “Owner” means the owner of the fee title interest in the property to be acquired.

Whereas: Section 3. Eminent domain is not to be used to further private economic development. The City of Grand Terrace shall not initiate or participate in any proceedings, or take any action to condemn private property for the purpose of making such property available for private development, nor shall the City participate, directly or indirectly, in such takings.

Whereas: “Participation’ means contributing, lending, providing, pledging, or foregoing, an funds, property, credit, in-kind services, or incurring any debt o lease obligation or providing any other thing of value to an agency, organization, or project.

Whereas: Section 4: Property acquired by the City of Grand Terrace through the use of eminent domain after the effective date of this charter amendment must be held or used for a public use by the City for a minimum twenty year period prior to sale, lease, transfer or other disposition by the City.

Whereas: Section 5. Amendment or Repeal.: This initiative may be amended or repealed only by the voters at a City Wide election.

Whereas: Section 6. Effective Date: Pursuant to the State of California Municipal Code section 92179217. If a majority of the voters voting on a proposed ordinance vote in its favor, the ordinance shall become a valid and binding ordinance of the city. The ordinance shall be considered as adopted upon the date that the vote is declared by the legislative body, and shall go into effect 10 days after that date. No ordinance that is either proposed by initiative petition and adopted by the vote of the legislative body of the city without submission to the voters, or adopted by the voters, shall be repealed or amended except by a vote of the people, unless provision is otherwise made in the original ordinance.


ONLY Council Member Miller Commented that he agreed the issue deserves consideration and should be on an up coming agenda. He suggested that an Ordinance Proposed Previously be given consideration also.

A copy of the other Proposed Ordinance would be nice to have to read.

10 Felony 5 Misdemeanor Counts... how many in GT?

John Harper is the City Attorney for both Communities:

Thursday, August 24, 2006
Last modified Wednesday,
August 16, 2006 9:41 PM PDT
Van Haaster opponents say recall vindicated by arrest
By: LAURA MITCHELL - Staff Writer
MURRIETA ---- Members of a group behind last year's recall of Jack van Haaster said Wednesday they felt vindicated by his arrest, but supporters of the former mayor said he should not be judged prematurely.Van Haaster, who served on the Murrieta City Council from 1992 until he was voted out of office in 2005, has been charged by the district attorney's office with 10 felonies and five misdemeanor counts relating to his role on the council.

Read the rest of the story at:

http://www.nctimes.com/articles/2006/08/17/news/californian/21_02_009_16_06.txt

Hmmmm

Aug 10 2006 Minutes Available

http://www.cityofgrandterrace.org/city_departments/CC_Minutes.html

The Aug 10 2006 Minutes are Available:

They are an interesting read. It is a PDF file... for those of you who have a problem down loading from the city's web site. Email me and I'll send you a copy..

Gramps

What YOU CAN DO :

ReCall Petitions Will Be Available for Signature at the City Council Meeting

Please be Courteous

Do NOT "Distract" the Council Members while they are Conducting City Business

Take home some Petitions and become a Signature Collector. You can collect the signature of your household, and neighbors.

Hold a Recall Petition Party on each block. Have some fun with the task.

Thanks to you all who want to

IMPROVE the Governance of Our Community rather than have it stay in its current state.

REPLACE & RECALL & REFORM

NOT in Grand Terrace

You can't effectively use a LEV (Light Electric Vehicle) or NEV (Neighborhood Electric Vehicle), in Grand Terrace.

WHY? Well the answer is the 40 mph Speed limit on Mt. Vernon and Barton Rd dividing our community and thus making it Illegal to drive an LEV or NEV to the shopping district or to 3/4th of the town.

Once upon a time there were no stop signs on except at the corner of Mt. Vernon and Barton Rd. NOW, we have stop lights at nearly every intersection on both streets. THESE lights slow traffic to effectively lower than 35 mph as an average sensible speed. BUT try to mention reducing the speed limit and you get a resounding NO.

It is a waste of fuel to rush and speed up to 40 between lights and stops. Opportunity to use an LEV and NEV should be encouraged not discouraged. IF we didn't spend 24, 000.00 for cars and 3.00 per gal for fuel, we may be able to work in GT and parent our children. OH lets not be progressive and selfsustaining. Solar panels can charge these little cars.

Who is doing the best for you?

Street legal in 35 mph zone. 2002 Lido with odometer 515. Licensed & has 40 mile range with charge. Rear wheel drive, rack & pinion steering, hydraulic brakes. Seats "2", seat/lap belts, saftey auto glass, "2" mirrors, stereo, & locking trunk. Looks like a PT Crusier or a small pickup truck.

NEXT

CITY OF GRAND TERRACE

COUNCIL MEETING

CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS

AUGUST 24, 2006

GRAND TERRACE CIVIC CENTER

6:00 PM

22795 Barton Road

Agenda Below

Vote for LLOYD H. DODD: REPLACE & REFORM

Vote:
LLOYD H. DODD, III

GT City COUNCIL MEMBER

Received 1369, Votes in the November 2nd, 2004 Election.

Dodd recently said in an interview, "he would look at issues from a fresh perspective if elected". "I feel the council is doing a good job, but I feel some new blood may need to be on it".

He proposes additional programs and activities for children and youth. He supports plans for a larger library and wants to bring in specialty shops and restaurants. "We want to keep people in our town," "If they can shop and dine in Grand Terrace, the city makes more money."


Lloyd Dodd, (909) 783-4985 or (909) 824-8608., 22626 Tanager St, Grand Terrace, CA 92313

Grandpa says: Lloyd H Dodd gets my nod, as Council Member Cortes must be replaced with the HOPE that the Replacement will require accountability of the City Management that Cortes failed to provide. Let's HOPE that Lloyd Dodd will reverse Ord. 187 the Eminent Domain Code. Let's HOPE that the Programs and Development Lloyd Dodd approves will be financially sound, and have proper Environmental Impact Studies PRIOR to being approved. WE KNOW the history and associations of BEA CORTES it it time to REPLACE and REFORM. BRING HOPE BACK to the Citizens of Grand Terrace.

From the Email InBox: More on FERRE/GARCIA

Isn't it interesting that Ms. Farren always takes the position that poor Ferre and Garcia are being singled out. Never mind that they are bulldozing their efforts to force development onto the citizens of Grand Terracce. They say they are representing the citizens, but they don't care to hear what the citizens have to say, unless it supports their efforts. Their actions contradict what they say to the paper.

From the Email InBox: RECALL a DISTRACTION

Shock and Distraction...

The Council Member's Continued Characterization of the Recall being a Distraction is interesting. HOW has the Recall Distracted the City Manager from running the City? Is it a bother to have to answer questions, not that they have.

Shock, what do you expect the results would be when you conduct or fail to exercise proper oversight of the City's Operations.

Where is the City's Car.
What is the REAL DEBT?
WHY did we by the City Manager, a HOUSE, and 2 CARS? IN ADDITION TO his PAY?

WHERE ARE THE REQUEST for Bids on the OAC, TC, and BMSV?

It was on the INSISTENCE of Council Member Miller that the AC was put to Bid... EVEN that deal had to have funny money transfers to cover the bill.

Where and When were the Public Hearings on the RDA Land Sales, and Transfers?

WHEN THESE THINGS DON'T HAPPEN... THE CITY COUNCIL SHOULD DIRECT THE CITY MANAGER TO MAKE THEM HAPPEN. They did not.

Your 3 minutes are up, please summarize is not dignified... and your comments are duly noted and will never be on the agenda is not dignified.

IF you find the Recall a Excessive Distraction... Perhaps you are not fit for office.

YOU HAVE NOT ENDED THE THREAT OF ED FOR ALL PROPERTY OWNERS... YOU AS COUNCIL MEMBERS COULD REVERSE CITY ORD 187...

Review of PE Coverage: RECALL IN THE NEWS

A Quick Review:

When you read Please Review the Documents.
StatementS and more

Garcia's Reports

DEBT BONDS and LONG TERM DEBT.... 5 Million RESERVE is A DROP IN THE BUCKET and is for DAY TO DAY OPERATIONAL FUNDS... not to off SET THE DEBT... The DEBT THIS COUNCIL APPROVED at the Direction of CITY MANAGER TOM SCHWAB AND ATTN HARPER.


LONG TERM RDA/CITY DEBT THEY REFUSE TO ACCEPT EXISTS

DebtDebt

Debt


Eminent Domain For You?
and page 2



threatthreat


Julie Ferran has attempted again to get some ink on the page related to the Recall in Grand Terrace.

See:

Leaders speak out on recall efforts
Press-Enterprise (subscription), CA - 3 hours ago
GRAND TERRACE: Two in city public office answer to complaints in petitions filed by a citizens group. By JULIE FARREN. GRAND TERRACE ...
http://www.pe.com/localnews/sanbernardino/stories/PE_News_Local_B_bcouncil22.3db1a42.html

Residents group identifies issues
Press-Enterprise (subscription), CA - 3 hours ago
POLITICS: Four areas of concern surround the drive to recall a mayor and a councilwoman. By JULIE FARREN. The group seeking to remove ...

http://www.pe.com/localnews/sanbernardino/stories/PE_News_Local_B_bcouncilside22.3db1b2b.html


I offer no more of my own words, just the documents.

AND a challenge:

Council Member Garcia: Show the public the Competitive Bid or Bid Request for Proposals for the Senior Housing/Senior Center Project. Show us the Bid Request for the Town Center Development/ or OAC. SHOW US the Competitive Bids for the "Work" given to Terra Loma. Provide a Report showing the Distribution of Contract Bids, and Awards. YOU can't do this because it does not exist.

We are sure you Council Woman Garcia, treat all the people who make donations to your campaign the same. The question is how do you treat them compared to the PUBLIC of Grand Terrace who did not provide support to your campaign?

It is not of significance who Council Member Ferre's Father was, or how old the Child of Council Member Garcia is. This information is provided as a distraction and is not cogent to the matters at hand. These are attempts to gain personal pity or allegiances on the basis of associations not related to the responsibilities of the role of a Council Member. Don't get personal cuts both ways.

Recall the Recall

YOU CAN SIGN A RECALL PETITION AT THE RECALL OFFICE

BETWEEN 5:30 AND 8:30

Thursday, Friday and Saturday (Some Times More)

IN THE STATER BROTHER'S SHOPPING CENTER

(909) 783-7902

YOUR NOT TO LATE TO OFFER HELP IN THE EFFORT

PLEASE EMAIL GRANDTERRACENEWS@YAHOO.COM

Fair Government For All Grand Terrace
34343434343434343434

Agenda For Council Meeting Aug 24, 2006 with Notes..

CITY OF GRAND TERRACE
COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
AUGUST 24, 2006
GRAND TERRACE CIVIC CENTER
6:00 PM
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, 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.

* Call to Order -
* Invocation - Pastor Salim Elias, Azure Hills Seventh-Day Adventist Church
* Pledge of Allegiance -
* Roll Call -

AGENDA ITEMS

CONVENE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
1. Approval of 08-10-2006 Minutes
ADJOURN COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY


CONVENE CITY COUNCIL MEETING
1. Items to Delete
2. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS

A. Commendation - Outgoing Planning Commissioner Bidney

B. Recognition - Grand Terrace Little League Softball 9-10 All- Star Team

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 August 24, 2006 Staff Recommendation Approve

B. Waive Full Reading of Ordinances on Agenda Staff Recommendation Approve

C. Approval of 08-10-2006 Minutes Staff Recommendation Approve

D. Lease Agreement - Colton Joint Unified School District Community Services Building
Staff Recommendation Approve

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 may not discuss or act on any item not on the agenda, but may briefly respond to statements made or ask a question for clarification. The Mayor may also request a brief response from staff to questions raised during public comment or may request a matter be agendized for a future meeting.

5. REPORTS

A. Committee Reports

1. Crime Prevention Committee
a. Minutes of July 10, 2006

B. Council Reports

6. PUBLIC HEARINGS - None

7. UNFINISHED BUSINESS

A. Second Reading of an Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Grand Terrace Approving Zone Change No. 06-01 (Z-06-01) to Change the Existing R1-20 Zoning to R1-10 and Delete the AG Overlay Zone for an 8.26 Acre Parcel Located on the Northerly Side of Pico Street Starting Approximately 150 Feet Easterly of the Intersection of Pico Street and Kingfisher Road and Environmental Case No. 06-03 (E-06-03) - Mitigated Negative Declaration as Provided by the California Environmental Quality Act

8. NEW BUSINESS

A. AES - Discussion Item

Gramps adds: AES will be Approved by the State Regulatory commission. However, GT Planning Dept., and the Sheriff Department Provided input to the applications. THIS is an important issue for the Placement of the High School and future use of that area including the traffic flow with the proposed closure of Pico. Noise, Heat, Air Quality all may not be compatible with the two uses being adjacent.

9. CLOSED SESSION - None


ADJOURN
THE NEXT CRA/CITY COUNCIL MEETING WILL BE HELD ON THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2006 AT 6:00 P.M.

AGENDA ITEM REQUESTS FOR THE 09-14-2006 MEETING MUST BE SUBMITTED IN WRITING TO THE CITY CLERKÂ’S OFFICE BY NOON 09-07-2006.

What is not on the Agenda:

Report and Audit of the Financess of GT DAYS as requested by Council Member Miller.

Notice of Termination of DDA with Jacobsen Family Holdings due to failure to meet dates and performance requirements contained in the DDA (Designated Developer Agreement).

Status of RDA Land Transfers done without Public Notice and Public Hearings as Required by State Law.

Report of the Disposition with documentation of the Automobile Purchased for the Use of the City Manager.

Report on the Disposition on Pending Law Suits against the City.

Report on the Update of State Required Updates to Housing Plan, Traffic Plan, and General Plan being in Agreement with Zoning.

Report on the full debt of the RDA/City and INCOME and DEBT Payment Plan.

Report or Notice of Action and Direction given from the Council to the City Manager.

Answer to 38 emails from New Readers:

Have I read Terrace Truth...? Yes... I find it to be one man's opinion... an opinion based on no research other than to read the city web page.

Is there ONE GrandpaTerrace or Many? Yes There is the web master site monitor who posts all the input from the other Grandpas who contribute to the site.

Why is there no open comments posted like on other blogs? I want children to be able to read the blog, and some times I have to redirect some language. I also had to stop folks from posting links to not related sites and products, and spam control.

Do you support the AES POWER PLANT and the GT High School?

The Power Plant is a Pre Existing Use and Site, and the New Updated Plant is an imporvement over the old one which in theory could be fired up if needed. However, I would like it better if it were a more innovateve mixture of technology. I also know that the Power Plant has little to do with Grand Terrace's Power Supply as it feeds into the BIG GRID.... not just to GT. I also know a bit of income will result and the city will enjoy the increased income and needs it to pay off the Debt that Mr. Schwab has made for us.

I would encourage all citizens to hold the Sheriff and City in account for the data they provided the AES application. I find some of it to be un true. A 4 minute Responce time for the Sheriff is not a reality, not even close. We know that is a fiction, and yet it is provided as part of the facts in the AES application. I find fault with the City Manager, City Council and School Board for not being ON TOP of this. I have had several ask me for links to the state web site, or downloaded reports, because STAFF did not provide the information to them.

I am for building a High School. I am for building many Small High Schools rather than one Mega Detention Center aka High School. An EFFECTIVE population for a High School should not EXCEED 2000 students. I also don't think that ALL high schools must have HUMUGUS FootBall Fields, Music, Dance, and other activities can be accomplished in less space, and with less physical risk to the participants, and annoyance to the neighbors of the school. I don't think that commercial property across from a power plant is a good place for a High School.

Why do you support change of the the Council? We aren't being well served by the council we now have. It is kind of like if you were a puppy would you stay with an owner who beats you daily if there may be a friendly human on the other side of the fence. Sure that human on the other side of the fence is an unknown, but it comes to a point a change is worth the risk, when the known has gotten bad enough.

Do you really think everyone should have a goat? NO... That is just an extreme example of how the City Code will limit an individual's rights and then not impose the same time of restrictions on business or their friends. A goat, is less noise and smell than a Doberman, or a Semi Tractor delivering lumber. A goat, eats weeds, a dog eats dog food. A goat can produce meat and milk. A dog produces.... Well... I let you fill in that one.

I do think any one who wants a goat, or a chicken should be able to have a goat, or a few chickens, rabbits. I think that folks should be encouraged to have fruit and nut bearing trees, and reduce high water use ornamental yards. Frugal and Practical.

A forward looking City should look into a mixture of development which will add to sustainable and respect all forms of economic activity. Retail and consumerism and OVER dependence on Raising Housing Prices and thus greater and greater debt is a road to HOVERVILLE, (For those of you who don't remember, these were the encampments of homeless prior to and during the great Depression. Add a dust bowl, or an additional burden on the economy and poof we have problems we are not well prepared for as as city, or a community.

Why only recall Ferre and Garcia, and not Cortez and Hilkey and Miller?

Well, Cortez and Hilkey were up for re-election so they could not be recalled.

Miller is new to the council and is being given a chance to see the writing on the wall so to speak. He is showing potential.

Ferre and Garcia are eligible for recall as they were not up for re election. Ferre running for Mayor is a way to avoid recall, if she wins the mayor she also will be party to picking her replacement on the council, the voters may not get an elected replacement until the next election.

Why do you dislike Mr. Schwab? I don't like people who lie. I don't like people who take personal advantage of a situation to provide themselves with income and perks greater than should be reasonable for the work they do. I don't like people who make back room land deals, and run up debts that others will have to pay for down the road.

I don't like any one who tries to force people off their land, to give or sell it to some one else.

Why is the tone of your blog the way it is? The tone of the blog is the harmonic inverse of the counterpoint of the Council and Schwab and others offended by this blogs tone. IF you took their writing, quotes, and statements, and put your name as the subject, or did a role play and switched actors you will find their tone to be more offending. Virginia Harford never answers the points raised but complains that she doesn't know who Grandpa is... so those offended by the tone are hearing their own tunes played with them as the melody.

When a Council Member calls citizens who bring a Law Suit .... Eco Terrorists... That tone is wrong. When Bill Hays is asked "His Purpose of LIFE".. or who appointed him to monitor the Council? OR even attacks on a unnamed writer as a defense to what is being said rather than not addressing what is said, is a tone that should be noted.

When the Stop Clock is more important than what is being said .... That tone is wrong.

When Zones and Plans Prohibit the development or restrict the use of property of a land owner, and then those are tossed out to aid a Developers desires... There is a tone problem..

When donations to GT Days, and Concerts are made by Developers and Suppliers with issues before the Council and Planning Department... that sets a bad tone.

Protect your Property Rights, Individual Freedom, and Your Right to Speak. INSIST on a Well Run Government.

Why do you list the arrests?

I list the arrests because the City Refuses to. There were several statements by Tom Schwab and members of the Council that it would be bad for our City's Reputation and Housing Prices if the REAL facts were available.

I still can't get the Calls into the Dispatcher, as a result of the City Manager/City Councils directive to the sheriff... BUT, I can report on the Arrests recorded on the booking log.

This information shows that Drugs, DUI,and Vehicle Code Violations are the Arrests Made. Of course where you have Drugs, and DUI, or Drinking you have families in distress, theft, graffiti, and youth without proper parenting being given to them.

This information also demonstrates the time it takes to book one person who is arrested and the need for additional officers to cover the town.

This information also is a protection as during these times, people could go missing or be arrested by the government and it not be reported.

Do you think there should be a total investigation into the finances and contracts of the city?

YES, and if Criminal Charges are the result so be it. IT is important that Government is held more in account than individuals.

Do you support the idea every house should have a Business Permit?

YES, and that should be a given, with out a fee. The Permit would list a business and put you in a directory. IF more people would work from home, more parenting time will be available, less hours will be spent on freeways, it will result in a real reduction in the commute. When a home costs 400.000.00 you should be able to use that investment for more than just sleeping. Homebased businesses should not be forced to be the new black market. GT could become a city of Homebased Businesses, even if no sales taxes resulted, the benefit in the increased Parenting Availability would off set a great deal of the cost of Youth Programs needed to cover the commute hours. Home based Businesses can be flexible so Parents can Parent.

Child Care, Assisted Living, Group Homes, all are important to the community and should be known and not forced to operate in the shadows, because getting a permit to operate is problematic.

Ebay sellers, Tutors, Craft Makers, or other home based business should all be encouraged no facilitated to be part of the local economy, and health of the community. IF Grand Terrace were an Island what would we need for our community? That would be a way of thinking how to have a sustainable city. IS it Possible for GT to be Self Sufficient? I think so.. IF we wanted to make it so we could. Without giant Debt..

Well keep reading... there are over 1000 posts and some of those have many support documents...

Gramps..

You might want to Read:

http://www.sbsun.com/news/ci_4208975

The Sun Article does link to the GrandTerraceNews.Blogspot and that is a good thing Hope folks stop by and read...

The blog is about more than the Recall, and if you are a new reader... Welcome. I suggest you read from the oldest post to the most current.

This blog started because the City REFUSED to provide information on their Web Site. Arrests, and Agendas and Minutes were the start of this web blog.

Again, Welcome New Readers.

Gramps..

Related EMAIL From the Email InBox

Dear Gramps/Readers:

As usual Mr. Wall did not use all my quotes. The Senior Housing being section 8 and the Seniors being promised by Schwab that they would live there. Most of our seniors are over qualified for Government subsidized rent and at that there are waiting lists for Section 8 housing over a year long.

The OAC and Senior Housing and the Town Center and Essco and the Peaker Plant and on and on where the City Manager, Planning Mis-Director and Council choose to (or will choose to), have to listen to a Superior Court Judge instead of the will of the people. These projects have been stopped by the courts for either violating the law, not following guidelines and laws set down by the Government or both. Mr. Schwab and Mr. Koontz are paid, and in Mr. Schwab case, $150,000 a year to know what they are doing.

Perhaps Mr. Reinarz will post on his site the cost to the tax payers in legal fee's for this ineptness and incompetence. In fact, if anyone wants to sue the City of Grand Terrace we are easy "pickings".

We haven't won a law suit yet. I'm sure Mr. Reinarz believes that it is Grandterracenews.blogspot website's fault. It could never be the management of this Cites fault. What other City would allow their City manager to remain employed if he is unable to get a project through legally, with open bids and not get the City in a law suit every time he advises the council that everything is "A O.K".

You would think this Council would learn that when Mr. Schwab makes "Staff Recommendations" that it's time to do their job and review everything because there will inevitably be a "Skunk in the woodpile" somewhere.

On the Essco project two lawyers, one being hired by the City, told the Council not to approve it. Councilwoman Cortes after a nudge from Council woman Ferre, moved for the vote on it by saying one of the most air headed things of the many she says at Council. "If it's good enough for the Planning Commission, it's good enough for the Council".

Within a week that statement landed the City and the taxpayers in yet another lawsuit. This is why the three of them need to be removed. They have no idea what they are doing or supposed to be doing.

Another good example. Councilwoman Cortes has arranged to change Council meeting nights, starting next January, if she is still on the Council, from Thursdays to Tuesdays because the G.O.P. (Republicans) have their meetings on Thursdays and she can't go. They already changed the time of the meeting from 7:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M. which has cut down on attendance what was obviously the plan.

Why not give the citizens a say instead of arranging the meeting. around a social calander. This is the type of of thing that shows that they believe they are there for social functions and pictures in the paper. Just let them be Council people don't make them be bothered with details of whats going on at City Hall.

The people went into the podium by the scores and voiced their opposition to the "pie-in-sky" projects brought to the city by Mr. Schwab in no bid contracts in violation of the law. The Citizens voices fell and continue to on deaf ears by most of the Council. In fairness Mr. Miller seems to have his eyes and ears open more than the others. Still that is three and most times four to one odds.

Mr.Schwab signs his own purchase orders for the cars the city will buy him, which again is a violation of State law and then can't or won't provide documentation as to what happened to the vehicle's that are replace. I asked for the third time at the last Council meeting what became of the last vehicle that the City bought for Mr. Schwab. How can they not account for a City owned vehicle? He may not sign a purchase order in which he stands to gain financially. It is illegal folks. Wouldn't you want to know what else if anything is being done without the voters knowledge?

Mr Wall called me and asked if I read the Blobsite by Mr. Reinarz. I told him that it must be very difficult for Mr. Reinarz to write it while sitting on Mr. Schwabs lap. Mr. Reinarz, from my understanding, is in the business of evidence analyzing. I would hope the way he has not used those skills, if in fact they exist, to actually bring "The Truth" to the Community, would not trans-send to his professional opinions.

When I looked at his site it was nothing but the Cities mantra that gave no evidence to back up Mr. Reinarz's opinion. When GrandPa Terrace challenged him to disprove anything on this website or to prove anything Mr. Reinarz says on his website, he provided nothing but his opinion once again, unsubstantiated by fact or document. Should you decide to visit Mr. Reinarz's site, ask him to provide documentation to disprove the documentation to the REAL TRUTH the GrandTerraceNews.blogspot site provides.

One last comment. There is no Grandpa Terrace. There are many, many Grandpa Terraces. The Citizens that have brought forth the documents and evidence of the Cities either unethical or illegal practices are Grandpa Terrace. Bill Hays and yes I am also a Grandpa.

Well here is what Gramps thinks.

I don't really care what Brian thinks about Gramps being un named... If they knew who I was, then what??? How will that change the facts? That it BUGS them is interesting.

What if I were a City Employee who just wanted to have fun? What if I were a former Council Member? What If I were a clerk at a store? WHO Cares..... Read the Documents....

IF and that is a BIG IF he wanted to point out where the City Purchased Cars have gone, or why the REAL Financial Accounting is hiding a 40 year debt, or why the Council Members have Failed to exercise sufficient control and oversight of the City Manager, I'd be interested.

What do Ferre and Garcia think they are being recalled for... 3 minute rule. NO, they are being recalled for their lack of Oversight of Plans Presented, Contract Done without Bids, and Development Plans which are not in agreement with the General Plan, or Barton Rd Specific Plan. They are being recalled for their inability to reconcile their prior campaign statements with their current actions. They are being recalled because things just don't add up at City Hall and THEY have the power or responsibility to make sure it does.

Tone... Yeah, I get the tone is harsh, when it isn't lalalala... some folks may be upset with the tone...

The Grandterracenews.blogspot.com lists actual arrests in GT, without this the current real crimes would not be fully appreciated by the citizens or council. The Grandterracenews.blogspot.com provides information on GT Events and other Local Family Events. The Grandterracenews.blogspot has hundreds of documents to support its opinion and encourages citizens to evaluate the FACTS in the documents. OR in some cases the LACK of documents.

Land Transfers without Public Hearings, Cars go missing, No Bid Contracts, Development Deals where Eminent Domain is used prior to Council or RDA Board Approval. etc. etc.

any thing else?

Brian has not once disproved a fact. Tone.... well his 3 minutes are up on the tone problem, no one forces him to read my out of tone blog... yet he keeps reading..

Brian closes with a statement he wants to increase the number of voters. Now that is a possitive sound bite.. A slogan hard to argue against.

This GrandTerraceNews.Blog s wants more informed Voters and Citizens so that they not only are good a making their choice when they vote, but are active participants in their government AFTER the election.

Herman Hilkey's Parting Comments:

Herman Hilkey 16 year veteran of the City Council has an interesting interview in the Aug 17 edition of the Grand Terrace City News, (Not affiliated with this blog) .

The final statement I find particularly interesting. He said that being on the City Council was a challenge and an interesting balance between the city management and the desires of the public. I find this an insight to the root of this city's problems.

Mr. Tom Schwab the City Manager being elevated to equal status of the "Public". The City Manager should be the Servant of the Council. The City Council should be directing the City Manager's actions by their understanding of the desires of the community.

Mr. Tom Schawab nor the Staff he hires should have a superior position of influence of an action than the public will. OF course if Mr. Harper reads a law and interpreted it as a professional and puts that interpretation in writing, it may be considered a professional opinion rather than a desire, or feeling. IT should not mandate a decision or direction or goal or even necessarily an action. It also seems it would be prudent to consider his legal advise as suspect considering how many of his clients are in trouble with the law, or debt. Most of his comments are NOT put in writing and therefor he can't be held accountable for his "advise".

Thank you Council Member Hilkey for your service. Good luck with your efforts as a Science Instructor. Being a Good Teacher, and parent is a continued service to the community. For that future service we also thank you.

You can now at least speak for 3 minutes and IF your interesting get an extension. This improvement is in part a result of your making it an issue. This may be the most important act of your 16 years of service.

Gramps