The Development on the Northwest Corner of Mt. Vernon/Barton Rd… More details... and
Gramps Focus on the Issue:
First of all the terms and condition of the lease and termination clause have not been disclosed by either private party or this is an issue to be resolved between them and possibly the Courts it is not a Public Issue or a Political Issue. However, the comments made by the City’s Mayor and Acting City Manager are of Public Interest or should be.
Now it is none of the Mayors business or the Cities what gets built on Private Property, IF a business thinks 2 Drug Stores will survive in GT then it is a BUSINESS and PROPERTY OWNER’s RIGHT to try. That is called free trade… That being said. The state does have a limit on how many Liquor Licenses can be issued in Grand Terrace, including selling from a “Drug” store. This is the majority of the sales tax items sold in a Walgreens or CVS so is it possible that you all booze it up more if there are more stores to buy booze from? That would be an interesting study.
I am concerned that the Mayor has the attitude that somewhere in her mind set she has control of what gets built on a Private Piece of Property by Private Business. That bothers me and it should bother you.
The City even suggesting a willingness to negotiate about street ownership is a hidden recognition by the Developer and the City that there is insufficient parking in the plan if it is to be within the code and zoning requirements of the City. These codes and “Plans” have caused other developers to not consider the property or other developments. To ease up on them for one and not remove the requirements on all future development is to be an injustice to current land owners as it puts them at a disadvantage in the market place. THIS IS NOT FREE COMMERCE or equal treatment under the Law, and Codes.
Sales Tax on What ? More Booze? Drugs and Food are not taxed. Well the truth is the CVS Store is on its way out of business. The building is listed for lease… at 1.5 million but the length of time that buys you is not posted. So perhaps the Smoke Store can pony up for that building… The smoke store should have a stand alone building as the owners habitually allow people to light up and smoke in their store. Others should not have to be exposed to this in their air ducts and walls.
So Mayor Ferre…. Have your meeting with the developer… see how much money gets contributed to Grand Terrace Days, the Mayors Campaign, or to the “Historical Society” by this developer in the past or in the future. Meetings between a developer and a person with a plan to be approved by the city council should not be having private meetings with the Mayor or any other member of the council… That quite simply does not pass the smell test… all the way from here… I can smell it and it is not good.
Gramps.
This is the part of the Article you should be WORRIED ABOUT…
The City Council is expected to consider the plans in early February. Construction could start in June and would take about eight months to complete, officials said.
As part of the project, the developer is asking the city to allow a portion of Britton Way running through the property to be vacated and maintained as a private driveway. The section of the street will still be open for public use for nearby residents.
Acting City Manager Steve Berry said the city expects to bring in between $60,000 and $100,000 in annual revenue from the project after all the businesses are open.
"We're hoping that by the time this gets built, the economy will have picked up steam," Berry said. "That is our busiest corner in the city."
Mayor Maryetta Ferre said she plans to meet with the developer next week to discuss the project. Ferre said she has questions about putting in two pharmacies across the street from each other. The city has a CVS Pharmacy at the northeast corner of Barton and Mount Vernon.
"I'm very happy to see new development in Grand Terrace, but I want to make sure it's exactly what we want," Ferre said.
GT shopping center hits snag
Stephen Wall, Staff Writer
Posted: 12/30/2008 04:05:08 PM PST
GRAND TERRACE - Plans to revitalize a blighted corner are running into resistance.
The city hopes to redevelop about 3.5 acres at the northwest corner of Barton Road and Mount Vernon Avenue with a Walgreens and a Fresh & Easy Neighborhood Market.
Three of the four buildings on the property, which housed several businesses, were demolished about two weeks ago.
But the GT Tobacco Shop isn't budging.
The owner of the tobacco shop, identified by the city as Jawad Abdeljawad, did not respond to a request for comment.
A woman at the shop who identified herself as Abdeljawad's daughter said he has a long-term lease and cannot be forced to leave. She declined to answer further questions.
Robert Ha, an Orange County doctor who owns the property and wants to develop the project, was unavailable for comment.
Ha's Anaheim-based attorney, Douglas T. Richardson, said his client has made a generous settlement offer of $25,000. Abdeljawad also hasn't had to pay rent for November and December and will get his security deposit back, Richardson said.
After initially wanting more than $300,000, Abdeljawad is now willing to accept $150,000, Richardson said. But Abdeljawad has not provided documentation to support his claims that he is entitled to compensation for lost inventory, lost profit and a rental increase at a new location.
"We are willing to negotiate with him, but his figure is so far out of touch with reality.
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It doesn't make any sense," Richardson said.
Meanwhile, the proposal has cleared the first hurdle of the city's approval process.
The Planning Commission on Dec. 18 recommended approval of the project, which calls for a 14,820-square-foot Walgreens and 13,969-square-foot Fresh & Easy. Other tenants have not been identified.
Starbucks Coffee, which occupies a separate building on the property, will be remodeled and remain part of the new center, known as Barton Square.
The City Council is expected to consider the plans in early February. Construction could start in June and would take about eight months to complete, officials said.
As part of the project, the developer is asking the city to allow a portion of Britton Way running through the property to be vacated and maintained as a private driveway. The section of the street will still be open for public use for nearby residents.
Acting City Manager Steve Berry said the city expects to bring in between $60,000 and $100,000 in annual revenue from the project after all the businesses are open.
"We're hoping that by the time this gets built, the economy will have picked up steam," Berry said. "That is our busiest corner in the city."
Mayor Maryetta Ferre said she plans to meet with the developer next week to discuss the project. Ferre said she has questions about putting in two pharmacies across the street from each other. The city has a CVS Pharmacy at the northeast corner of Barton and Mount Vernon.
"I'm very happy to see new development in Grand Terrace, but I want to make sure it's exactly what we want," Ferre said.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Monday, December 29, 2008
Ode to the Moo
Gramps has been getting email about the down town demo going on to make way for the Fresh and Easy and other small shops... in the place of the Former Mrs Moo's... The Original GT Drug Store, the Cornet 5 and Dime Store, and the Hidden Beauty Shop in the back and perhaps even the little pink house where the Ginny Holms Realty Office once was located. These lots and buildings along with the old Liquor Store / Barber Shop were acquired the old fashioned way... Without the use of RDA or Government Heavy Handed Involvement. A natural and slow process over they years. The land owner has offered these places for lease to various business over the years and the terms of those leases are between the Owner and the Occupant. Any dispute in a Lease is an issue for the Civil Courts not City Hall. This Blog's focus is on the Property Rights of Citizens in Grand Terrace and the Running of Grand Terrace at the City level.
Not knowing the terms of any of the leases I will not comment on a Private Owner's right to move or terminate a lease. I will say that a termination clause is almost always a part of a lease. This is a contract law dispute for the courts, not a City Government Issue.
That all being said.
Those of us who remember:
Sitting behind the liquor store after school drinking a soda on the way home from the dip in the canal, or Azure Hills Country Club Pool, or getting a hair cut from Rex, or the Drug Store that had Facial Tissues as the GTI carried Toilet Paper but not Facial Tissue... and the little stuffed animals for Get Well Gifts that the Drug Store had. Or the adventure of spending a quarter at the 5 and dime... Then the corner was the only Stop Sign in town... yes I said SIGN... not a light. Oh how we needed a light at La Cadena and Barton much sooner than that first Signal on Barton and Mt. Vernon.
None of the original businesses on the 4 corners of Mt. Vernon and Barton are the ones that began there. None of the land owners operated the businesses occupying the space. This combined with the inflation of the "value" of property and ever increasing rents or leases has caused many business to be in the Red.
The bottom line is that until the cost of land or property ownership or lease is sufficiently lower no start up business can afford the high cost of getting started. When they are started and if they don't own their land, they may find themselves with a Land Owner who raises the rent or lease just so they have to move or leave their place of business. The clients will come to the next person paying higher rent, but providing the service nurtured by the first business. This is the risk assumed in a leased space for a business.
So Mrs. Moo's is all gone.... where is that cow now?
CVS looks to be going the same way as the first and second and third drug stores in GT... Closed for the lack of business.. sufficient to pay employees and rent.
Dr. Kenney's / Dr Baum's Office is empty... long ago house calls were part of his service to the very sick in this community...
Oranges, and Grapefruit Farms are gone. Gone are the small truck farms and back yard farms that supported 4 H projects and families in the community. Gone is the Fruit Stand that was never attractive but always a good place to stop in for some fruit and conversation.
Canal floating in town is no longer an option...
So change will come... This is a fact.... However, the purpose of this blog has always been that change should be in the hands of the PROPERTY OWNER and that the CITY should not Be in Business of Property Development or an RDA forcing Property Owners off their land or telling them what to do with or on their Property.
Even if I don't live in GT anymore... this will still be the site to alert citizens when the City violates Property Owner Rights.
Not knowing the terms of any of the leases I will not comment on a Private Owner's right to move or terminate a lease. I will say that a termination clause is almost always a part of a lease. This is a contract law dispute for the courts, not a City Government Issue.
That all being said.
Those of us who remember:
Sitting behind the liquor store after school drinking a soda on the way home from the dip in the canal, or Azure Hills Country Club Pool, or getting a hair cut from Rex, or the Drug Store that had Facial Tissues as the GTI carried Toilet Paper but not Facial Tissue... and the little stuffed animals for Get Well Gifts that the Drug Store had. Or the adventure of spending a quarter at the 5 and dime... Then the corner was the only Stop Sign in town... yes I said SIGN... not a light. Oh how we needed a light at La Cadena and Barton much sooner than that first Signal on Barton and Mt. Vernon.
None of the original businesses on the 4 corners of Mt. Vernon and Barton are the ones that began there. None of the land owners operated the businesses occupying the space. This combined with the inflation of the "value" of property and ever increasing rents or leases has caused many business to be in the Red.
The bottom line is that until the cost of land or property ownership or lease is sufficiently lower no start up business can afford the high cost of getting started. When they are started and if they don't own their land, they may find themselves with a Land Owner who raises the rent or lease just so they have to move or leave their place of business. The clients will come to the next person paying higher rent, but providing the service nurtured by the first business. This is the risk assumed in a leased space for a business.
So Mrs. Moo's is all gone.... where is that cow now?
CVS looks to be going the same way as the first and second and third drug stores in GT... Closed for the lack of business.. sufficient to pay employees and rent.
Dr. Kenney's / Dr Baum's Office is empty... long ago house calls were part of his service to the very sick in this community...
Oranges, and Grapefruit Farms are gone. Gone are the small truck farms and back yard farms that supported 4 H projects and families in the community. Gone is the Fruit Stand that was never attractive but always a good place to stop in for some fruit and conversation.
Canal floating in town is no longer an option...
So change will come... This is a fact.... However, the purpose of this blog has always been that change should be in the hands of the PROPERTY OWNER and that the CITY should not Be in Business of Property Development or an RDA forcing Property Owners off their land or telling them what to do with or on their Property.
Even if I don't live in GT anymore... this will still be the site to alert citizens when the City violates Property Owner Rights.
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Warm Up Winter:
Winter is Here. During the these are a few of the things we can all do to lift our spirits.
Give extra blankets, coats, warm shoes and socks and hats to Homeless Shelter.
Give OLD UGLY Blankets and towels to Dog and Cat Shelter.
Give Food or Cash to Homeless Shelter's or Soup Kitchen or Food Pantry. If you have an avocado tree, lemon tree, or orange tree or other home grown fruit... a Food Pantry will welcome these contributions too.
Provide healthy snacks to a party for those people who can't eat sugar.
Give Cash: to Organizations who can buy items in bulk or at a special discount
Give a Teacher 20.00 for school supplies... or clean out your pen and pencil drawer and donate them to a teacher for those students who have none or forget them at home.
There are ample ways we can contribute something we have either in cash or in service or in something good we don't use or need anymore.
If you have a desire for a dog... look at the shelter... or perhaps be a foster home for a military person going on deployment. Or take in a homeless dog or pet while his/her family gets resettled... These would be temporary placements and a good test of your desire to have a dog for 10 years or more...
These are a few things to do during winter.
Give extra blankets, coats, warm shoes and socks and hats to Homeless Shelter.
Give OLD UGLY Blankets and towels to Dog and Cat Shelter.
Give Food or Cash to Homeless Shelter's or Soup Kitchen or Food Pantry. If you have an avocado tree, lemon tree, or orange tree or other home grown fruit... a Food Pantry will welcome these contributions too.
Provide healthy snacks to a party for those people who can't eat sugar.
Give Cash: to Organizations who can buy items in bulk or at a special discount
Give a Teacher 20.00 for school supplies... or clean out your pen and pencil drawer and donate them to a teacher for those students who have none or forget them at home.
There are ample ways we can contribute something we have either in cash or in service or in something good we don't use or need anymore.
If you have a desire for a dog... look at the shelter... or perhaps be a foster home for a military person going on deployment. Or take in a homeless dog or pet while his/her family gets resettled... These would be temporary placements and a good test of your desire to have a dog for 10 years or more...
These are a few things to do during winter.
AND REMEMBER
Drive with Safety in Mind and ALL Times
Drive with Safety in Mind and ALL Times
If you drink DON'T Drive.
If you are serving guests even one drink make sure they are safe to drive home.
Friday, December 19, 2008
Problems In the Future?? Ya Sure You Betcha
Paww...
The new development reported below potentially has no chance of being completed. Anita told me that construction lenders are not giving out dollars to potential borrowers on "SPEC" developments. Unless you got a hard and signed commitment from a potential occupant, there is no way to get a construction loan on any speculative properties. He may wear an expensive suit, but has no Millions of dollars.
Part of the the new project is speculative as mentioned by the developer at the meeting. Thus doubtful in part or whole of any forthcoming dollars as the lenders do not want to create any more unoccupied buildings.
I think this why the developer is in such a rush now. No occupant was proposed for occupying the RESTAURANT pad, or remainder of Starbucks building. Maybe a Togos, a Wendy's, a Del Taco, or Food Connection was considered as fodder.
The developer has two good clients now, only needs two to four more that agree with him and then....
Paawww....
Approved on 18th At the meeting of the City of G.T. Planning Commission the evening of the 18th, a notorious plan was presented for examination and public comment concerning a future development on the Northwest corner of Barton Road, at Mt. Vernon, a very well seen site today. This is the corner where the present day Starbucks coffee shop is located and where some demolition of offices is now going on. Most every resident ought to be familiar with the vicinity.
The meeting went on for about two hours, and an 'oft repeated sayings were noted. One of which readers ought to be familiar with now.
(1) Right or wrong, the City of G.T. staff is pretty competent and can work out the details later on based upon already established guidelines or
(2) This project will be of GREAT benefit to residents of G.T. and am sure that even though the developer is not a resident of the city, he does however have his heart in to the welfare of the City, and would not do anything to harm the residents...(If you believe in the last paragraph, there are a LOT of developers today in south New Orleans who had formerly valuable property and would be more than happy to talk to you about the sale of some land, now inundated, that can potentially get you millions in profit for a measly investment in repair and upkeep, and..)
The meeting started off on a sour note, for only three of the five commissioners were present. And thus any vote expressed by a singular commissioner was going to have far reaching consequences. Commissioner Phelps was not present, he had sent a note to city staff asking a few questions, and ought to receive a response to those questions via mail soon (See 2 above).
Main item of note was that just a few years ago, a Barton Road Specific plan was created by the city staff (See 1 above) which pertained to old and new businesses along the busy thoroughfare. This document has now created some problems. Whatever was mentioned or alluded to then had it's language projected to encompass this project. And thus if a developer has a finger of his property touching the current Barton Road right-of-way, you then can project those ideas mentioned in that document towards your way of thinking. In the instance of this development, it had far reaching implications. (Don't fall asleep here for this has unspoken benefits which affect this property only and maybe if the RDA had insisted the City Council work on a Specific Plan for Mt. Vernon, their financial troubles would have gone away too)Much of the complaints expressed during the evening, concerned the lack of parking spaces.
The developer had his representatives up front and center to talk at the podium about how this was a minor inconvenience but all numbers set forth by the Barton Road Specific Plan had been addressed (see 1 above) and then several persons from the general public came forth and expressed their concerns (see 2 above) which as expected were contrary.
The basic situation being in that due to formulae cited in the Barton Road specific plan (as was quoted numerous times by Pro-ponents and City staff) the new development would need to provide about 159 parking spaces, whereas under current subjective accounts like the city-wide zoning ordinance it would have to provide about 181 to 188 spaces. A shortfall by more than 20 parking spaces which is significant here. This was pointed out via Commissioner Comstock, the Starbucks coffee shop which he often frequents currently has about 25 spaces available to it and others right now, this is expected to be reduced to about 15 after the development takes place. A net loss (see 1 and 2 above) to potential customers.
Also expressed by many folks was that the site is being filled with buildings and not looking out for potential customers. (Oh, I lied to you on the parking space count noted above, for there are actually less in that as (see 1 above) several of those are occupied by shopping carts from the potential supermarket, and then there are a few along old Brittain Way that cannot be occupied unless the person drives off site and turns their vehicle around to gain access to them. However, any potential loss there can be made up via making a few more miniature parking spots for compact cars like the overweight residents of G.T. SHOULD be driving (as per some future ordinance yet to be handed to the Council).
For everyone knows that parking spaces do not create wealth, only occupants to structures can do that (see 2 above). Perhaps in looking back the real culprit in specifying only 159 spaces for five buildings versus the 311 of the neighboring supermarket across the street, was that adequate parking spaces was again the culprit of the Barton Road Specific Plan for it got quoted in many instances "We meet all the requirements of the Specific Plan as adopted by the City Council".
Going back here, as the property in question does touch Barton Road it can take advantage of formulae presented there, even though the majority of frontage is along Mt. Vernon Avenue. Properties along Mt. Vernon have one set of rules and regulations, and those touching Barton Road now have a second set in this particular instance, which may differ. Which is why city staff approved the forwarded the controversial site on to the G.T. Planning Commission to let them take the heat. (If anything goes wrong, it's not my fault!)
When a lady came forth and mentioned how a very serious traffic accident of a few years ago, almost cost her a fused backbone, she was brushed aside. (We don't want to hear about your problems as you are just another anti-development Complainer, so now shut up and sit down, see 1 and 2 above). Although the meeting took more than two hours to come to an approval, it overall took the air of being hurried-up, for we got our minds made up and don't want to upset anyone, and this this development will get approved to-night in one way or another. (If we do anything wrong here to-night, then blame can directly be placed at the G.T. city council for approving such a matter, not us, for they are the elected decision makers).
It was expressed that the developer is in need of fill dirt, he has a hot deal now pending with the City of Riverside which will benefit him in lowering the construction costs and development loans, and he does not want to loose out on that opportunity (see 2 above) by having an adverse decision by the P.C. that evening. At same time it was admitted by the developer's representative that hurrying along and that many of the details had not been worked out was due to time constraints, (see 1 above) things were changing every week and that the plans had been worked in to their present condition only one one week earlier (see 2 above), but overall this project would benefit the city way down the road (see 2 above) by potential tax dollars. (See previous paragraph too)
A representative of the supermarket Fresh and Easy was a spokesperson, and mentioned that the site has "potential" and if it does not work out, they will close or relocate in five or ten years from now (a representative of Wallgreen Drug stores the other potential occupant did not speak).
It was also pointed out by Jeffry McConnell that the proposed site is to contain a pad for a Walgreens Drug store when within walking distance away is another competitor, the city has already committed itself to approving third huge future drug store within 1/8th mile from this site, and there is extant a couple other smaller stores now selling medical drugs. But if either of the lessees move out in five years then we got a nice building for a potential 99 cent store, or a Tatoo parlor.
I figure that the 14,000 residents of G.T. must be awfully sick everyday in order to then warrant such a quantity of drug stores. Don't need any future Doctor's offices, for the prescription counter will take care of their needs. (see 2 above). GrandpaTerrace must add that the Drug being sold at these Drug Stores is a Liquor Store with Lipstick. We have a sufficient number of Liquor Stores that sell Drugs on the side.
But getting back to the lack of parking spaces, this item was dropped as a possible need to deny further development of the site. A potential customer will have to choose as to if they want to do business at a building at this site, or take their dollars to one in which they can readily drive up and find a spot to park at then walk right in or not (see about 311 readily available parking spaces across the street note above).
Commissioner Comstock had mentioned a similar thought that as instead of fighting any potential parking problems, he would simply take his daily business to nearby Colton and spend a couple dollars there as it was faster and easier instead of waiting the 20 minutes for a singular parking space to open up. Oh, but he did not consider that there may be some parking spaces available at an adjacent site at the future restaurant pad?
This potential parking area was pointed out by the developer, however also admitted there were zero customers had been found to occupy the pad area being set aside. But!, but once someone was found, the additional parking could then be created for the potential 100 customers per hour as stated by the new city Planning Officer.
Overall, beside the blatant lack of parking spaces there were numerous points discussed as potential problems ranging from site drainage, to sound walls, building setback violations, odd and high dirt retaining walls which were being installed to save on construction costs, and a few traffic problems in Barton Road that are due to be worked out some time after the approval of the site plan (see 1 above) which readers will not see for the plans are not brought back to any P.C. meeting, and then a few minor excessive slopes the developer's representative openly mentioned that the site has and will be of minimal drainage even though construction will result in steeper slopes than any other similar project up and down Barton Road so expect flooding, a water line in wrong location (see 1 above), how one driver of a Pepsi truck with a nasty attitude can interfere with your driving around the site to find that open parking space after, or how the submitted site plan and the submitted grading plan do not agree with one another in details (see 1 above).
Standard policy is that these potential problems are NOT brought forth to the public to discuss, but instead worked out via City Staff (see 1 above) in one way or another. In other words the developer can change the position of the buildings, improve or restrict traffic flow later on in a few months, but these are considered minor changes in which the G.T City Council, the city P.C. or the general public does not have to be made aware of for staff will handle these matters themselves.
If five buildings were approved to be built and requiring only 159 parking spaces within a few years, then any change from that has to be considered as Minor, and not beforehand or this could lead to problems (see 2 above).
In Planner's Language, the writer here is familiar as he pulled some of the same stunts in order to please the paying developer, the simple application to remove a portion of a city owned and currently maintained street for the benefit of addition parking space count which is an old ploy to permit off site parking and otherwise increase the apparent count of parking spaces by saying this is considered to be Private Property. A few years from now, that very same street can be donated BACK to the city of G.T. for their maintenance when the condition has deteriorated, and due to complaints by G.T. residents the current developer has found maintenance of the street and utilities cost prohibitive in comparison to upkeep of the site (which was approved on the 18th) and keeping all those accountants hired.
In all fairness the City P.C. did ask the developer to make a few ten cent alterations like to the color to roofing and exterior wall, convert 15 or 25 gallon trees to 24 inch box sized trees, and a few other things which could cause hundreds of dollars in expenses. The developer was asked to provide a revision to a couple of already submitted studies which again could potentially cost upwards of two or three hundred dollars (see 2 above), and I can see now that gosh we have spent nearly one thousand dollars here.
Wonder how that lady feels now that the city of G.T. is making the developer spend upwards of a thousand dollars now to put in bigger faster growing trees, but zero as to fixing her back?
But, we gotta hurry and get this development approved, for the developer needs to sign a few contracts and get that 4000 Cu. yards cheaper dirt before January. We do not have time to revise anything, or listen for whatever the City Council will say at their meeting, or the need to resolve these things on the plans (see 1 above) for that will all be cured a staff level, we gotta get these things done and approved right now (see 2 above). We will fix or overlook errors in interpretation of the Barton Road specific plan when time and money become available, but not now for the developer is in a hurry to save one thousand dollars in construction costs.
GrandpaTerrace Adds: The City Council and Planning Commission and City Planning Department have proven time and time again. Codes and Plans and Zoning only is applied to be punitive to people and businesses who criticise them or publicly disagree with them, or get in the way of their grandiose delusion of grandeur, power, self importance and greed. The problem is that they gave Jacobesen waivers on the Plan Requirements, and that opened the doors for others to negate the plan.. The developers have money to fight the City... but an individual home or business owner does not. CVS is listed for Lease, so if Wallgreens is thinking about moving to town, they had better ask the city if it needs another Liquor Store. We have seen 3 Drug stores go out of business in Grand Terrace. Stater's Brother's "New Store" is supposed to have an in house Pharmacist... So how many Liquor Stores do you need in the city? That is the question. Sales tax is not collected on Drug Sales so what is being sold that brings advantage to GT?
Perhaps the building will be the eventual Annex to the Day Care Center. However, this building may be for the Homeless, Unemployed, or Teens from the age of 13 to 18. Or perhaps a Drug Rehab Clinic... Folks with DUI's don't drive, so they don't need parking spaces. Flooding and other dangers including public personal and property risks are assumed by the city if the City allows violations of the Codes, Plans and Engineering required to build if the City is signing off on the plans. For example, if the property causes flooding onto Barton Rd, and the lot is grades and drained as planned by the Developer and signed off by the city, the city becomes a party to all lawsuits as they allowed the construction. So do I see a problem with this approval... YES...
Unless you are going to have Zero Zoning, and Local Approvals and Inspections, Grand Terrace will continue to step into a law suit every time a building or development gets approved under the current Codes, and Plans and financial arrangements.
The new development reported below potentially has no chance of being completed. Anita told me that construction lenders are not giving out dollars to potential borrowers on "SPEC" developments. Unless you got a hard and signed commitment from a potential occupant, there is no way to get a construction loan on any speculative properties. He may wear an expensive suit, but has no Millions of dollars.
Part of the the new project is speculative as mentioned by the developer at the meeting. Thus doubtful in part or whole of any forthcoming dollars as the lenders do not want to create any more unoccupied buildings.
I think this why the developer is in such a rush now. No occupant was proposed for occupying the RESTAURANT pad, or remainder of Starbucks building. Maybe a Togos, a Wendy's, a Del Taco, or Food Connection was considered as fodder.
The developer has two good clients now, only needs two to four more that agree with him and then....
Paawww....
Approved on 18th At the meeting of the City of G.T. Planning Commission the evening of the 18th, a notorious plan was presented for examination and public comment concerning a future development on the Northwest corner of Barton Road, at Mt. Vernon, a very well seen site today. This is the corner where the present day Starbucks coffee shop is located and where some demolition of offices is now going on. Most every resident ought to be familiar with the vicinity.
The meeting went on for about two hours, and an 'oft repeated sayings were noted. One of which readers ought to be familiar with now.
(1) Right or wrong, the City of G.T. staff is pretty competent and can work out the details later on based upon already established guidelines or
(2) This project will be of GREAT benefit to residents of G.T. and am sure that even though the developer is not a resident of the city, he does however have his heart in to the welfare of the City, and would not do anything to harm the residents...(If you believe in the last paragraph, there are a LOT of developers today in south New Orleans who had formerly valuable property and would be more than happy to talk to you about the sale of some land, now inundated, that can potentially get you millions in profit for a measly investment in repair and upkeep, and..)
The meeting started off on a sour note, for only three of the five commissioners were present. And thus any vote expressed by a singular commissioner was going to have far reaching consequences. Commissioner Phelps was not present, he had sent a note to city staff asking a few questions, and ought to receive a response to those questions via mail soon (See 2 above).
Main item of note was that just a few years ago, a Barton Road Specific plan was created by the city staff (See 1 above) which pertained to old and new businesses along the busy thoroughfare. This document has now created some problems. Whatever was mentioned or alluded to then had it's language projected to encompass this project. And thus if a developer has a finger of his property touching the current Barton Road right-of-way, you then can project those ideas mentioned in that document towards your way of thinking. In the instance of this development, it had far reaching implications. (Don't fall asleep here for this has unspoken benefits which affect this property only and maybe if the RDA had insisted the City Council work on a Specific Plan for Mt. Vernon, their financial troubles would have gone away too)Much of the complaints expressed during the evening, concerned the lack of parking spaces.
The developer had his representatives up front and center to talk at the podium about how this was a minor inconvenience but all numbers set forth by the Barton Road Specific Plan had been addressed (see 1 above) and then several persons from the general public came forth and expressed their concerns (see 2 above) which as expected were contrary.
The basic situation being in that due to formulae cited in the Barton Road specific plan (as was quoted numerous times by Pro-ponents and City staff) the new development would need to provide about 159 parking spaces, whereas under current subjective accounts like the city-wide zoning ordinance it would have to provide about 181 to 188 spaces. A shortfall by more than 20 parking spaces which is significant here. This was pointed out via Commissioner Comstock, the Starbucks coffee shop which he often frequents currently has about 25 spaces available to it and others right now, this is expected to be reduced to about 15 after the development takes place. A net loss (see 1 and 2 above) to potential customers.
Also expressed by many folks was that the site is being filled with buildings and not looking out for potential customers. (Oh, I lied to you on the parking space count noted above, for there are actually less in that as (see 1 above) several of those are occupied by shopping carts from the potential supermarket, and then there are a few along old Brittain Way that cannot be occupied unless the person drives off site and turns their vehicle around to gain access to them. However, any potential loss there can be made up via making a few more miniature parking spots for compact cars like the overweight residents of G.T. SHOULD be driving (as per some future ordinance yet to be handed to the Council).
For everyone knows that parking spaces do not create wealth, only occupants to structures can do that (see 2 above). Perhaps in looking back the real culprit in specifying only 159 spaces for five buildings versus the 311 of the neighboring supermarket across the street, was that adequate parking spaces was again the culprit of the Barton Road Specific Plan for it got quoted in many instances "We meet all the requirements of the Specific Plan as adopted by the City Council".
Going back here, as the property in question does touch Barton Road it can take advantage of formulae presented there, even though the majority of frontage is along Mt. Vernon Avenue. Properties along Mt. Vernon have one set of rules and regulations, and those touching Barton Road now have a second set in this particular instance, which may differ. Which is why city staff approved the forwarded the controversial site on to the G.T. Planning Commission to let them take the heat. (If anything goes wrong, it's not my fault!)
When a lady came forth and mentioned how a very serious traffic accident of a few years ago, almost cost her a fused backbone, she was brushed aside. (We don't want to hear about your problems as you are just another anti-development Complainer, so now shut up and sit down, see 1 and 2 above). Although the meeting took more than two hours to come to an approval, it overall took the air of being hurried-up, for we got our minds made up and don't want to upset anyone, and this this development will get approved to-night in one way or another. (If we do anything wrong here to-night, then blame can directly be placed at the G.T. city council for approving such a matter, not us, for they are the elected decision makers).
It was expressed that the developer is in need of fill dirt, he has a hot deal now pending with the City of Riverside which will benefit him in lowering the construction costs and development loans, and he does not want to loose out on that opportunity (see 2 above) by having an adverse decision by the P.C. that evening. At same time it was admitted by the developer's representative that hurrying along and that many of the details had not been worked out was due to time constraints, (see 1 above) things were changing every week and that the plans had been worked in to their present condition only one one week earlier (see 2 above), but overall this project would benefit the city way down the road (see 2 above) by potential tax dollars. (See previous paragraph too)
A representative of the supermarket Fresh and Easy was a spokesperson, and mentioned that the site has "potential" and if it does not work out, they will close or relocate in five or ten years from now (a representative of Wallgreen Drug stores the other potential occupant did not speak).
It was also pointed out by Jeffry McConnell that the proposed site is to contain a pad for a Walgreens Drug store when within walking distance away is another competitor, the city has already committed itself to approving third huge future drug store within 1/8th mile from this site, and there is extant a couple other smaller stores now selling medical drugs. But if either of the lessees move out in five years then we got a nice building for a potential 99 cent store, or a Tatoo parlor.
I figure that the 14,000 residents of G.T. must be awfully sick everyday in order to then warrant such a quantity of drug stores. Don't need any future Doctor's offices, for the prescription counter will take care of their needs. (see 2 above). GrandpaTerrace must add that the Drug being sold at these Drug Stores is a Liquor Store with Lipstick. We have a sufficient number of Liquor Stores that sell Drugs on the side.
But getting back to the lack of parking spaces, this item was dropped as a possible need to deny further development of the site. A potential customer will have to choose as to if they want to do business at a building at this site, or take their dollars to one in which they can readily drive up and find a spot to park at then walk right in or not (see about 311 readily available parking spaces across the street note above).
Commissioner Comstock had mentioned a similar thought that as instead of fighting any potential parking problems, he would simply take his daily business to nearby Colton and spend a couple dollars there as it was faster and easier instead of waiting the 20 minutes for a singular parking space to open up. Oh, but he did not consider that there may be some parking spaces available at an adjacent site at the future restaurant pad?
This potential parking area was pointed out by the developer, however also admitted there were zero customers had been found to occupy the pad area being set aside. But!, but once someone was found, the additional parking could then be created for the potential 100 customers per hour as stated by the new city Planning Officer.
Overall, beside the blatant lack of parking spaces there were numerous points discussed as potential problems ranging from site drainage, to sound walls, building setback violations, odd and high dirt retaining walls which were being installed to save on construction costs, and a few traffic problems in Barton Road that are due to be worked out some time after the approval of the site plan (see 1 above) which readers will not see for the plans are not brought back to any P.C. meeting, and then a few minor excessive slopes the developer's representative openly mentioned that the site has and will be of minimal drainage even though construction will result in steeper slopes than any other similar project up and down Barton Road so expect flooding, a water line in wrong location (see 1 above), how one driver of a Pepsi truck with a nasty attitude can interfere with your driving around the site to find that open parking space after, or how the submitted site plan and the submitted grading plan do not agree with one another in details (see 1 above).
Standard policy is that these potential problems are NOT brought forth to the public to discuss, but instead worked out via City Staff (see 1 above) in one way or another. In other words the developer can change the position of the buildings, improve or restrict traffic flow later on in a few months, but these are considered minor changes in which the G.T City Council, the city P.C. or the general public does not have to be made aware of for staff will handle these matters themselves.
If five buildings were approved to be built and requiring only 159 parking spaces within a few years, then any change from that has to be considered as Minor, and not beforehand or this could lead to problems (see 2 above).
In Planner's Language, the writer here is familiar as he pulled some of the same stunts in order to please the paying developer, the simple application to remove a portion of a city owned and currently maintained street for the benefit of addition parking space count which is an old ploy to permit off site parking and otherwise increase the apparent count of parking spaces by saying this is considered to be Private Property. A few years from now, that very same street can be donated BACK to the city of G.T. for their maintenance when the condition has deteriorated, and due to complaints by G.T. residents the current developer has found maintenance of the street and utilities cost prohibitive in comparison to upkeep of the site (which was approved on the 18th) and keeping all those accountants hired.
In all fairness the City P.C. did ask the developer to make a few ten cent alterations like to the color to roofing and exterior wall, convert 15 or 25 gallon trees to 24 inch box sized trees, and a few other things which could cause hundreds of dollars in expenses. The developer was asked to provide a revision to a couple of already submitted studies which again could potentially cost upwards of two or three hundred dollars (see 2 above), and I can see now that gosh we have spent nearly one thousand dollars here.
Wonder how that lady feels now that the city of G.T. is making the developer spend upwards of a thousand dollars now to put in bigger faster growing trees, but zero as to fixing her back?
But, we gotta hurry and get this development approved, for the developer needs to sign a few contracts and get that 4000 Cu. yards cheaper dirt before January. We do not have time to revise anything, or listen for whatever the City Council will say at their meeting, or the need to resolve these things on the plans (see 1 above) for that will all be cured a staff level, we gotta get these things done and approved right now (see 2 above). We will fix or overlook errors in interpretation of the Barton Road specific plan when time and money become available, but not now for the developer is in a hurry to save one thousand dollars in construction costs.
GrandpaTerrace Adds: The City Council and Planning Commission and City Planning Department have proven time and time again. Codes and Plans and Zoning only is applied to be punitive to people and businesses who criticise them or publicly disagree with them, or get in the way of their grandiose delusion of grandeur, power, self importance and greed. The problem is that they gave Jacobesen waivers on the Plan Requirements, and that opened the doors for others to negate the plan.. The developers have money to fight the City... but an individual home or business owner does not. CVS is listed for Lease, so if Wallgreens is thinking about moving to town, they had better ask the city if it needs another Liquor Store. We have seen 3 Drug stores go out of business in Grand Terrace. Stater's Brother's "New Store" is supposed to have an in house Pharmacist... So how many Liquor Stores do you need in the city? That is the question. Sales tax is not collected on Drug Sales so what is being sold that brings advantage to GT?
Perhaps the building will be the eventual Annex to the Day Care Center. However, this building may be for the Homeless, Unemployed, or Teens from the age of 13 to 18. Or perhaps a Drug Rehab Clinic... Folks with DUI's don't drive, so they don't need parking spaces. Flooding and other dangers including public personal and property risks are assumed by the city if the City allows violations of the Codes, Plans and Engineering required to build if the City is signing off on the plans. For example, if the property causes flooding onto Barton Rd, and the lot is grades and drained as planned by the Developer and signed off by the city, the city becomes a party to all lawsuits as they allowed the construction. So do I see a problem with this approval... YES...
Unless you are going to have Zero Zoning, and Local Approvals and Inspections, Grand Terrace will continue to step into a law suit every time a building or development gets approved under the current Codes, and Plans and financial arrangements.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Planning Commish Tonight... Barton/Mt Vernon F&E
AGENDA
THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
OF THE CITY OF GRAND TERRACE WILL BE HELD ON
DATE: December 18, 2008
PLACE: Council Chambers, Grand Terrace Civic Center
22795 Barton Road , Grand Terrace, California
7:00 P.M. CONVENE SITE AND ARCHITECTURE REVIEW BOARD- PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
· Call to Order
· Pledge of Allegiance
· Roll Call
· Public address to Commission shall be limited to three minutes unless extended by the Chairman. Should you desire to make a longer presentation, please make written request to be agendized to the Director of Community and Economic Development.
GENERAL PUBLIC PARTICIPATION:
· This is a time for anyone in the audience to speak on any item, which is not on the agenda for this meeting.
ITEMS:
1. MINUTES: Planning Commission Meeting Minutes of
November 20, 2008
RECOMMENDATION: Approval
2. SA 08-09, CUP 08-05, TPM 08-02 (TPM No. 19131), Vacation of Right of Way, and E 08-03:
A proposal to redevelop approximately 3.6 acres of land by demolishing existing structures, retaining a 6,900 square foot commercial building, and constructing a 24-hour 14,820 square foot drug store with prescription pick up window, a 24-hour 13,969 square foot grocery store, and a 5,300 square foot multi-tenant restaurant. A portion of Britton Way is proposed to be vacated, but maintained as a private driveway. Associated parking, landscaping, and lighting will be constructed. Under the Tentative Parcel Map nine lots will be consolidated qualifying the project for development incentives. The project site is zoned Village Commercial within th e Barton Road Specific Plan and Administrative Commercial.
APPLICANT:
Dr. Robert Ha
LOCATION:
Northwest corner of Barton Road and Mount Vernon Avenue, and northwest corner of Britton Way and Mount Vernon Avenue (Assessor's Parcel Numbers 0275-251-14, 21 27, 30, 31, 32, 55, 73 and 74)
RECOMMENDATION: Conduct the public hearing; and move to adopt the attached resolution approving SA 08-09, CUP 08-09 and E 08-03, and recommending that the City Council approve Tentative Parcel Map 08-02 and the Vacation of a portion of Britton Way .
ADJOURN SITE AND ARCHITECTURE REVIEW BOARD-PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
· Information to Commissioners
· Information from Commissioners
ADJOURN PUBLIC WORKSHOP SESSION
THE JANUARY 1, 2009 PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING WAS CANCELED. THE NEXT SCHEDULED PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING TO BE HELD ON JANUARY 15, 2009.
THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
OF THE CITY OF GRAND TERRACE WILL BE HELD ON
DATE: December 18, 2008
PLACE: Council Chambers, Grand Terrace Civic Center
22795 Barton Road , Grand Terrace, California
7:00 P.M. CONVENE SITE AND ARCHITECTURE REVIEW BOARD- PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
· Call to Order
· Pledge of Allegiance
· Roll Call
· Public address to Commission shall be limited to three minutes unless extended by the Chairman. Should you desire to make a longer presentation, please make written request to be agendized to the Director of Community and Economic Development.
GENERAL PUBLIC PARTICIPATION:
· This is a time for anyone in the audience to speak on any item, which is not on the agenda for this meeting.
ITEMS:
1. MINUTES: Planning Commission Meeting Minutes of
November 20, 2008
RECOMMENDATION: Approval
2. SA 08-09, CUP 08-05, TPM 08-02 (TPM No. 19131), Vacation of Right of Way, and E 08-03:
A proposal to redevelop approximately 3.6 acres of land by demolishing existing structures, retaining a 6,900 square foot commercial building, and constructing a 24-hour 14,820 square foot drug store with prescription pick up window, a 24-hour 13,969 square foot grocery store, and a 5,300 square foot multi-tenant restaurant. A portion of Britton Way is proposed to be vacated, but maintained as a private driveway. Associated parking, landscaping, and lighting will be constructed. Under the Tentative Parcel Map nine lots will be consolidated qualifying the project for development incentives. The project site is zoned Village Commercial within th e Barton Road Specific Plan and Administrative Commercial.
APPLICANT:
Dr. Robert Ha
LOCATION:
Northwest corner of Barton Road and Mount Vernon Avenue, and northwest corner of Britton Way and Mount Vernon Avenue (Assessor's Parcel Numbers 0275-251-14, 21 27, 30, 31, 32, 55, 73 and 74)
RECOMMENDATION: Conduct the public hearing; and move to adopt the attached resolution approving SA 08-09, CUP 08-09 and E 08-03, and recommending that the City Council approve Tentative Parcel Map 08-02 and the Vacation of a portion of Britton Way .
ADJOURN SITE AND ARCHITECTURE REVIEW BOARD-PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
· Information to Commissioners
· Information from Commissioners
ADJOURN PUBLIC WORKSHOP SESSION
THE JANUARY 1, 2009 PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING WAS CANCELED. THE NEXT SCHEDULED PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING TO BE HELD ON JANUARY 15, 2009.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
RDA's Un-Natural Development
The natural course of human affairs has included the rise and fall of civilizations. One thing that is repeated has been that when a Government be it the City of Grand Terrace, the State of California or Nero decide to take over the Redevelopment of Property and Businesses which should be done by Private Individuals and Business there is a tendency for individuals to be displaced and economies to suffer, and some times civilizations permanently changed or ended.
Let's look at the City of Grand Terrace. The City of Grand Terrace has 14 plus Million RDA DEBT, on one side of the balance sheet. On the other side of the Balance Sheet it has a Partially Built Senior Center it will take possession of only after it has been used and depreciated to a zero balance. This use of public land and public funds cost the citizens 9.5 Million out of Pocket, and who knows how much interest will cost in addition. The operations of the Senior Housing will not repay the RDA DEBT used to build a building which will most likely have a zero or negative value if it has to be demolished at the end of the Lease.
Let's look at the Out Door Adventure Center Area where the RDA has spent funds again funded by DEBT to purchase land from Friends of the City Council Member/Mayor and City Manager at nearly 2 times the then market value, and much under the current value, and no development has taken place, yet Debt has been used, and interest paid on the loans.
Let's look at the Income and Property Taxes Lost when the RDA Purchases land under the threat of Eminent Domain to facilitate the Private Development of a Shopping Center called Town Center Jacobsen/Brown Development. Private Individuals were forced off their land with threats of the use of Eminent Domain, sell to a single buyer or be told by the City and Courts what your property is worth, have it taken, and no right to sell at what ever the market value was or could bare. Perhaps people just wanted to live and use their land as they wanted but NO... Not in the RDA of GT.
This land included the Purchase of Land of a Former Mayor, a Low or Moderate Income Housing Trailer Park owned and operated by a Private Individual. and Several Homes. The former owners were paying property taxes. The city does not pay property tax on land the RDA owns. No development has taken place, no income to off set the cost of the interest on the RDA DEBT FUNDS use, or the Legal Fees Incurred.
Sure, GT will change. Like the Corner with Mrs. Moo's, the 5 and Dime, and the Original Drug Store, and the Little Pink House. This corner will change via natural course without RDA or City Intervention into the investment. This is how it should be done... Slow and easy, not at the expense of the tax payer.
Yes, prices even property priced should go up and YES DOWN... when a building a business or home no longer has use or function the price should go down, it too depreciates. THEN the market place will set the price it will be sold and a new use will NATURALLY EVOLVE.
In Colton... Let's look at their KMart, and the Development where Big Lots are as examples of how difficult it is for a City to make RDA Funds and Large Box Stores work for a City. Neither of these RDA Projects have been fully occupied for years. GT is going to offer a business a better deal? At what cost, at what benefit?
RDA's are not a good thing if it is used by Governments to build NEW. RDA should only be used to Restore / Repair or Improve Pre-Existing Businesses and Homes. No Business like the Jacobsen/Brown relationship or the Senior Center/Housing. That should be criminal.
The Planning for our City has failed to include the basic need for jobs, and sustainability. The Financial Management and the RDA has also failed to provide for this. We can not live on Retail Consumption as a Country, State or City. IF we do not PRODUCE we DIE.
Let's look at the City of Grand Terrace. The City of Grand Terrace has 14 plus Million RDA DEBT, on one side of the balance sheet. On the other side of the Balance Sheet it has a Partially Built Senior Center it will take possession of only after it has been used and depreciated to a zero balance. This use of public land and public funds cost the citizens 9.5 Million out of Pocket, and who knows how much interest will cost in addition. The operations of the Senior Housing will not repay the RDA DEBT used to build a building which will most likely have a zero or negative value if it has to be demolished at the end of the Lease.
Let's look at the Out Door Adventure Center Area where the RDA has spent funds again funded by DEBT to purchase land from Friends of the City Council Member/Mayor and City Manager at nearly 2 times the then market value, and much under the current value, and no development has taken place, yet Debt has been used, and interest paid on the loans.
Let's look at the Income and Property Taxes Lost when the RDA Purchases land under the threat of Eminent Domain to facilitate the Private Development of a Shopping Center called Town Center Jacobsen/Brown Development. Private Individuals were forced off their land with threats of the use of Eminent Domain, sell to a single buyer or be told by the City and Courts what your property is worth, have it taken, and no right to sell at what ever the market value was or could bare. Perhaps people just wanted to live and use their land as they wanted but NO... Not in the RDA of GT.
This land included the Purchase of Land of a Former Mayor, a Low or Moderate Income Housing Trailer Park owned and operated by a Private Individual. and Several Homes. The former owners were paying property taxes. The city does not pay property tax on land the RDA owns. No development has taken place, no income to off set the cost of the interest on the RDA DEBT FUNDS use, or the Legal Fees Incurred.
Sure, GT will change. Like the Corner with Mrs. Moo's, the 5 and Dime, and the Original Drug Store, and the Little Pink House. This corner will change via natural course without RDA or City Intervention into the investment. This is how it should be done... Slow and easy, not at the expense of the tax payer.
Yes, prices even property priced should go up and YES DOWN... when a building a business or home no longer has use or function the price should go down, it too depreciates. THEN the market place will set the price it will be sold and a new use will NATURALLY EVOLVE.
In Colton... Let's look at their KMart, and the Development where Big Lots are as examples of how difficult it is for a City to make RDA Funds and Large Box Stores work for a City. Neither of these RDA Projects have been fully occupied for years. GT is going to offer a business a better deal? At what cost, at what benefit?
RDA's are not a good thing if it is used by Governments to build NEW. RDA should only be used to Restore / Repair or Improve Pre-Existing Businesses and Homes. No Business like the Jacobsen/Brown relationship or the Senior Center/Housing. That should be criminal.
The Planning for our City has failed to include the basic need for jobs, and sustainability. The Financial Management and the RDA has also failed to provide for this. We can not live on Retail Consumption as a Country, State or City. IF we do not PRODUCE we DIE.
RDA of GT : Economic and Fiancial Folly
Grand Terrace RDA to lose $448,211 dollars, (Riverside Press-Enterprise, dated December, 02, 2008.)
The point of this piece is to educate citizens on Redevelopment Agencies (RDA’s) and how they have veered of course to become government giveaways. It is also to pose the question: If the entire city is an RDA, what exactly does a loss of $448,211 to our RDA fund mean to us in services and fiscal health? As I based this on information available from state sources, in which nothing had been reported from Grand Terrace. (See scanned excepts, the agency has been out of compliance for not reporting property or blight progress report and holding parcels of land.)
RDA’s were created in the 1950’s to eradicate blighted neighborhoods. Their intent was to build replacement housing. Blight designations have been manipulated to give commercial developers and others, cash grants, tax rebates, free land and cash from the sale of bonds, (they are not obligated to pay back), in order to increase local government sales tax revenues
According to the 2007 State Controller’s “Community Redevelopment Agencies Annual Report,” Redevelopment Agencies (RDA’s), take an alarming 23 percent (San Bernardino) and 25 percent (Riverside) of the local property tax base.
This is extremely important as this forces cities to figure out how to generate an additional 23 to 25 percent more in revenue for the general fund.
The general fund, not RDA revenue, pays for basic city services: police, fire, parks and libraries.
RDA pays developers to locate in our jurisdiction to increase our sales taxes.
Reading the local newspapers, you would get the wrong picture. RDA does not pay for local services.
The Riverside-San Bernardino area is number one nationwide in home foreclosures and unemployment, even beating out Detroit.
Yet Sacramento is unable to act on its’ budget deficit to hit 28 billion within less than one-year. Yet, Wall Street has walked away with approximately $350 billion dollars.
Proposition 13 was passed 30 years ago. Reform of how we finance state/local government should have been resolved long ago.
State and local government budgets remain a collection of piecemeal legislative actions.
It is a complicated mess.
After the passage of Proposition 13, local governments got a “bailout” from the state budget surplus to backfill revenues lost from this measure.
During the 1990’s recession, the state took it back these bail-out funds to pay for funding schools.
Local governments depending- on your view – had to increase revenues, to do this they used RDA fund not to eliminate blight, but to help so-called “private industry,” mainly retailers to locate within their jurisdictions to increase sales taxes. Sales taxes are the second the largest source of revenue, below property taxes.
Our own City of Grand Terrace found using RDA’s so lucrative to increasing sale tax revenues, that it made the entire city an RDA, I do not view Grand Terrace as a blighted area.
Statewide for the Fiscal Year ending June 30, 2007, RDA revenues were $10.7 billion, expenditures, $8 billion and long-term debt $17 billion.
Below is a small sample of projects literally taken from various “Community Redevelopment Agencies Annual Reports:” The City of Grand Terrace did not have any projects listed. Perhaps, a reader has the current report, to share these expenditures.
In FY 1998-99, the City if Victorville, completed a 8,000 square foot facility for Vista Dental, a 5,000 square foot medical facility for Dr. Paul Bell and 16,000 square feet of office space for the Desert Dental facility and laboratory. The City also built the La Paz branch of the Desert Community Bank.
In FY 1998-99, the City of San Bernardino completed the expansion of 100,000 square feet for GE Capital Mortgage, creating 150 new jobs.
In FY 1999-00 the City San Bernardino constructed a 20-screen theater.
In FY 2000-01 the City of San Bernardino completed Preciado Mortuary.
In FY 2002-03, the City of Colton renovated Moss Brother’s Ford, creating 18 jobs and the Hampton Inn and Suites, creating 20 jobs.
In FY 2002-03, the City of Redlands, completed construction of an 11,000 square foot three-story office building extension for ESRI, an information systems software company.
In 2006-07, the City of Colton, “opened” Bob’s Big Boy in Dominguez Plaza, (the report does not mention the number of jobs created.)
In 2006-07, the City of San Bernardino completed Phase II of the Residence/ Fairfield Inn, the Elephant Bar Restaurant and various office/industrial parks.
Spending tax money on projects-best suited for private investment- is never a good idea. When these retailers and auto malls go out business all we taxpayers just get the debt and an empty building.
The point of this piece is to educate citizens on Redevelopment Agencies (RDA’s) and how they have veered of course to become government giveaways. It is also to pose the question: If the entire city is an RDA, what exactly does a loss of $448,211 to our RDA fund mean to us in services and fiscal health? As I based this on information available from state sources, in which nothing had been reported from Grand Terrace. (See scanned excepts, the agency has been out of compliance for not reporting property or blight progress report and holding parcels of land.)
RDA’s were created in the 1950’s to eradicate blighted neighborhoods. Their intent was to build replacement housing. Blight designations have been manipulated to give commercial developers and others, cash grants, tax rebates, free land and cash from the sale of bonds, (they are not obligated to pay back), in order to increase local government sales tax revenues
According to the 2007 State Controller’s “Community Redevelopment Agencies Annual Report,” Redevelopment Agencies (RDA’s), take an alarming 23 percent (San Bernardino) and 25 percent (Riverside) of the local property tax base.
This is extremely important as this forces cities to figure out how to generate an additional 23 to 25 percent more in revenue for the general fund.
The general fund, not RDA revenue, pays for basic city services: police, fire, parks and libraries.
RDA pays developers to locate in our jurisdiction to increase our sales taxes.
Reading the local newspapers, you would get the wrong picture. RDA does not pay for local services.
The Riverside-San Bernardino area is number one nationwide in home foreclosures and unemployment, even beating out Detroit.
Yet Sacramento is unable to act on its’ budget deficit to hit 28 billion within less than one-year. Yet, Wall Street has walked away with approximately $350 billion dollars.
Proposition 13 was passed 30 years ago. Reform of how we finance state/local government should have been resolved long ago.
State and local government budgets remain a collection of piecemeal legislative actions.
It is a complicated mess.
After the passage of Proposition 13, local governments got a “bailout” from the state budget surplus to backfill revenues lost from this measure.
During the 1990’s recession, the state took it back these bail-out funds to pay for funding schools.
Local governments depending- on your view – had to increase revenues, to do this they used RDA fund not to eliminate blight, but to help so-called “private industry,” mainly retailers to locate within their jurisdictions to increase sales taxes. Sales taxes are the second the largest source of revenue, below property taxes.
Our own City of Grand Terrace found using RDA’s so lucrative to increasing sale tax revenues, that it made the entire city an RDA, I do not view Grand Terrace as a blighted area.
Statewide for the Fiscal Year ending June 30, 2007, RDA revenues were $10.7 billion, expenditures, $8 billion and long-term debt $17 billion.
Below is a small sample of projects literally taken from various “Community Redevelopment Agencies Annual Reports:” The City of Grand Terrace did not have any projects listed. Perhaps, a reader has the current report, to share these expenditures.
In FY 1998-99, the City if Victorville, completed a 8,000 square foot facility for Vista Dental, a 5,000 square foot medical facility for Dr. Paul Bell and 16,000 square feet of office space for the Desert Dental facility and laboratory. The City also built the La Paz branch of the Desert Community Bank.
In FY 1998-99, the City of San Bernardino completed the expansion of 100,000 square feet for GE Capital Mortgage, creating 150 new jobs.
In FY 1999-00 the City San Bernardino constructed a 20-screen theater.
In FY 2000-01 the City of San Bernardino completed Preciado Mortuary.
In FY 2002-03, the City of Colton renovated Moss Brother’s Ford, creating 18 jobs and the Hampton Inn and Suites, creating 20 jobs.
In FY 2002-03, the City of Redlands, completed construction of an 11,000 square foot three-story office building extension for ESRI, an information systems software company.
In 2006-07, the City of Colton, “opened” Bob’s Big Boy in Dominguez Plaza, (the report does not mention the number of jobs created.)
In 2006-07, the City of San Bernardino completed Phase II of the Residence/ Fairfield Inn, the Elephant Bar Restaurant and various office/industrial parks.
Spending tax money on projects-best suited for private investment- is never a good idea. When these retailers and auto malls go out business all we taxpayers just get the debt and an empty building.
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Fighting the Red Light Camera: How to Win in Court
California Appellate Court Declares Red Light Camera Contracts Illegal
More than forty California cities have red light camera contracts of the type declared illegal by appellate court judge.Millions in red light camera ticket revenue is in jeopardy following a ruling by the Appellate Division of the California Superior Court in Orange County.
At least forty cities across the state depend on so-called "cost neutrality" clauses in their contracts with the private companies that operate red light camera programs. These provisions are designed to sidestep a state law prohibiting compensation payments to the companies based on the number of tickets issued.
The appellate court last month dismissed the ticket of a Fullerton woman because the city issued a ticket under such a cost neutrality arrangement."The purpose of the statute is to avoid an incentive to the camera operator, as a neutral evaluator of evidence, to increase the number of citations issued and paid through the use of the equipment," Presiding Judge Robert J. Moss wrote.
Fullerton hired Nestor Traffic Systems (NTS) in January 2007 to operate the city's lucrative traffic safety program. As part of Fullerton's agreement with the firm, Nestor would perform an annual assessment of the flat-rate annual fee paid for the company's ticketing services."[Nestor] agrees to renegotiate its service fees (down or up, but not to exceed the service fees in Section 4.1) if it is determined that fees paid to NTS exceed net program revenues being realized," the Fullerton photo ticketing contract states.
In 2001, a San Diego, California Superior Court ruling found the common practice of having a city pay a financial bounty for each red light camera ticket issued had undermined the integrity of the system. In response, the state legislature mandated that all photo enforcement contracts signed after January 2004 must be flat rate.
That means any payment method, "based on the number of citations generated, or as a percentage of the revenue generated" is prohibited. Judge Moss did not believe Fullerton's contract followed either the letter or the spirit of the law."The possibility that fees could be negotiated 'down' if it is determined fees paid to NTS exceed 'net program revenues being realized,' indirectly ties fees to NTS to the amount of revenue generated from the program,"
Moss explained. "If insufficient revenue is generated to cover the monthly fee, the fee could be 'negotiated down.' As such, NTS has an incentive to ensure sufficient revenues are generated to cover the monthly fee."The ruling is thought to be the first of its kind on the subject. An appeals court ruling earlier this year passed over the topic in a decision that bolstered the photo ticketing program.
The Moss ruling sets a precedent that a photo ticket issued under an illegal contract is inadmissible as evidence."Because the city's contract with Nestor Traffic Systems violated Vehicle Code section 21455.5(g), the trial court erred in admitting evidence from the automated enforcement system," Judge Moss concluded. "The judgment of the trial court is reversed with instructions to dismiss the citation."
Highwayrobbery.net has examined the contracts of several photo enforcement programs across California and determined that the following cities used similar cost neutrality clauses: Baldwin Park, Bell Gardens, Capitola, Cathedral City, Citrus Heights, Corona, Covina, Culver City, Daly City, Davis, Escondido, Gardena, Glendale, Grand Terrace, Highland, Laguna Woods, Lancaster, Loma Linda, Los Alamitos, MRCA, MTA/Metro, Marysville, Menlo Park, Millbrae, Modesto, Moreno Valley, Murrieta, Napa, Newark, Oroville, Rancho Cucamonga, Redding, Redwood City, Riverside, Rocklin, Roseville, San Bernardino, San Juan Capistrano, San Leandro, San Mateo, San Rafael, Santa Maria, City of South San Francisco, Union City, Ventura, Victorville, Walnut, Yucaipa and Yuba City.
The full text of the ruling is available in a 75k
PDF file at the source link below.Source: California v. Franco (Appellate Division, Superior Court of California , 11/21/2008) Regional News:Other news about Fullerton, California
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Planning Commision Meeting Important to Attend...
Pawww....
I understand the first reading of the new development for a shopping center at N.W. corner of Mt. Vernon and Barton Road is due up for discussion at P.C. meeting on Thursday night of Dec. 18th. Nothing wrong with that. In the past this plan has been shown, but never actually voted upon by the P.C.
There were an awful lot of code violations on the earlier examples, and much bending of the rules shown on the new proposed plan.
It became a "verbal" OK more than a written one.
Let Us See what the P.C. and the public has to say now.
Plan that I last saw showed a Drive through Pharmacy, which is considered a No-No after the previous attempts by other developers. And was also deficient on standard parking spaces by about 10-20 percent.
If you want to visit and shop at the place, park out in the street then. We got space there. It was also a maze of aisles just to locate a space, and say nothing for simple delivery truck access everyday.
Or if you need to P-U anything via drive through hope you car does not overheat, or there isn't a delay in waiting for the delivery truck to get going.I understand that now that the buildings have been enlarged, much of the cited problems have increased.
Don't expect this one to open up in Spring 2009. It looks to have problems, and maybe the P.C. will ask for a better plan addressing these matters before proceeding (if they do).
Hope folks can come, on the evening of the 18th.
Gramp's Reply:
Sounds like the problem of eyes being bigger the appetite. The code on the Drive Thru was changed apparently for the benefit of Doug Jacobsen and Miguel's. After Years of Demetri's being Rejected for a Drive Thru they finally were permitted to have one only after the City had approved Miguel's Drive Thru and Jacobsen convinced the City Council that he needed to include Drive Thru services to his CVS Drug Store, and other businesses in the Town Center Project. So I think that Code has been negated permanently.
The city chased away Mc Donnalds, a Jack in the Box and who knows what others by their code of No Drive Thru until the magic Doug Jacobsen contributed his way to a change of their position. Oh did I just link a Policy Decision to Contributions to Campaigns and City Coffers for Party Days in GT? OH MY...
Now as to the parking and traffic flow through the area to be developed. I have not seen the plans. But, I do know that the area is kind of smaller than one would think and I agree that the developer seems to be putting too many individual stores in addition to the Fresh and Easy in one space. Parking and traffic problem located near the Child Care Center even with its entry point change will be a concern. Close proximity to particulate mater by children playing in the play yard should be an issue for citizens and parents who have children attending the GT City Child Care.
That all being said. This project is a Privately Funded Project. I think if they over build their lot, they will not have the customer base needed to support it, then the Private Party will have to redesign to fit the needs and use of the customer base. To the best of my knowledge no RDA or City funds or finagling has benefited the project so I kind of have to take the Libertarian Approach. IF there is no city involvement, the property owner should be able to build what ever he wants however he wants within the law and design for safety as prescribed by Federal and State Regulations. I don't give a darn about City Codes, they can put them in their pipes and smoke them. If City Codes are knowingly waived, then it erodes the code for the next applicant. To be honest I hope they erode all the way to dust.
If the City is using RDA funds for land purchases to support a project, or if a Developer has contributed to a City Fund or Political Campaign in the City they should be held to 100 percent of the Codes Requirements including fees and setbacks, and all other codes and an EIR in addition.
I understand the first reading of the new development for a shopping center at N.W. corner of Mt. Vernon and Barton Road is due up for discussion at P.C. meeting on Thursday night of Dec. 18th. Nothing wrong with that. In the past this plan has been shown, but never actually voted upon by the P.C.
There were an awful lot of code violations on the earlier examples, and much bending of the rules shown on the new proposed plan.
It became a "verbal" OK more than a written one.
Let Us See what the P.C. and the public has to say now.
Plan that I last saw showed a Drive through Pharmacy, which is considered a No-No after the previous attempts by other developers. And was also deficient on standard parking spaces by about 10-20 percent.
If you want to visit and shop at the place, park out in the street then. We got space there. It was also a maze of aisles just to locate a space, and say nothing for simple delivery truck access everyday.
Or if you need to P-U anything via drive through hope you car does not overheat, or there isn't a delay in waiting for the delivery truck to get going.I understand that now that the buildings have been enlarged, much of the cited problems have increased.
Don't expect this one to open up in Spring 2009. It looks to have problems, and maybe the P.C. will ask for a better plan addressing these matters before proceeding (if they do).
Hope folks can come, on the evening of the 18th.
Gramp's Reply:
Sounds like the problem of eyes being bigger the appetite. The code on the Drive Thru was changed apparently for the benefit of Doug Jacobsen and Miguel's. After Years of Demetri's being Rejected for a Drive Thru they finally were permitted to have one only after the City had approved Miguel's Drive Thru and Jacobsen convinced the City Council that he needed to include Drive Thru services to his CVS Drug Store, and other businesses in the Town Center Project. So I think that Code has been negated permanently.
The city chased away Mc Donnalds, a Jack in the Box and who knows what others by their code of No Drive Thru until the magic Doug Jacobsen contributed his way to a change of their position. Oh did I just link a Policy Decision to Contributions to Campaigns and City Coffers for Party Days in GT? OH MY...
Now as to the parking and traffic flow through the area to be developed. I have not seen the plans. But, I do know that the area is kind of smaller than one would think and I agree that the developer seems to be putting too many individual stores in addition to the Fresh and Easy in one space. Parking and traffic problem located near the Child Care Center even with its entry point change will be a concern. Close proximity to particulate mater by children playing in the play yard should be an issue for citizens and parents who have children attending the GT City Child Care.
That all being said. This project is a Privately Funded Project. I think if they over build their lot, they will not have the customer base needed to support it, then the Private Party will have to redesign to fit the needs and use of the customer base. To the best of my knowledge no RDA or City funds or finagling has benefited the project so I kind of have to take the Libertarian Approach. IF there is no city involvement, the property owner should be able to build what ever he wants however he wants within the law and design for safety as prescribed by Federal and State Regulations. I don't give a darn about City Codes, they can put them in their pipes and smoke them. If City Codes are knowingly waived, then it erodes the code for the next applicant. To be honest I hope they erode all the way to dust.
If the City is using RDA funds for land purchases to support a project, or if a Developer has contributed to a City Fund or Political Campaign in the City they should be held to 100 percent of the Codes Requirements including fees and setbacks, and all other codes and an EIR in addition.
Monday, December 08, 2008
PAW:
If Steve Berry is Over Worked perhaps he should cut back on his non City Volunteer work for REEF during the Work Week. Or perhaps he is not capable of doing the City Manager Job. Perhaps his ineptitude is prohibiting the City Clerk and Staff from getting the job done.
The City of Grand Terrace seems to be ready to be a continued support of excessive compensation for the City Manager Tom Schwab even after he has stopped working. He should go on Disability if he is unable to work. If he has medical insurance and has been working and been paid so much in addition to getting a Free House and Free Vehicles all those years he should have much more resources than the average citizen in GT and the City has done little for the Regular Citizen who will be paying Mr. Schwab.
The city should be concerned with meeting its contractual obligations and limiting expenses including the cost of the City manager's Employment Contract.
In addition, I think it is time that the City Council Open up for Competitive Application the Job of City Manager, and have the Applicants offer to Low Bid their Applications. Have them submit there resumes and what they are willing to accept as compensation and the best qualified and lowest cost contractor gets the job.
Personal Feelings should not be an issue. Tom Schwab has been milking the City of Grand Terrace and he seems to have trained the City Council to surrender the City's Resources to his bidding. Steve Berry has been trained and nurtured to do the same thing and he is being positioned to become Tom Schwab's Mini Me.
This is not in the best interest of the City. This is not the best interest of the City... No let the Clerks and Secretaries who do the real work in the City Split Schwab's Pay, and get rid of both Schwab and Berry and their fixation on City Party Days and self promotion and greed. We'd have a better city.
Pay off Schwab according to what ever the contract stipulates and be done with it. We are seeing how well going into DEBT has Benefited the City of Grand Terrace RDA... and the contracts and plans Schwab has brought to this city... Thanks but no thanks... lets not continue to reward this man for the "Service" of the past. Lets dust off the past and move forward.
Tom Schwab can sell his city purchased home even in today's market and live in Kansas for the rest of his life.
Stephen Wall, Staff Writer
Posted: 12/07/2008 09:59:51 PM PST
GRAND TERRACE - The work situation of City Manager Tom Schwab is scheduled to be settled by the City Council on Tuesday night.
Schwab has not worked since June when he was hospitalized with a brain injury.
The council will discuss modifying Schwab's contract to take into account his medical condition.
Under the proposed employment agreement, the city would pay Schwab as apart-time consultant through June 30. His main responsibility would be to prepare the city's 2009-2010 budget, as well as perform other duties determined by acting City Manager Steve Berry.
Schwab would have no supervisory responsibility over other employees and would put together the budget in consultation with Berry and the city's finance director. Berry would have the final say in the budget that gets presented to the council for approval.
"It's very clear that Steve is in charge," Schwab said Friday. "I'll do anything he wants me to do because I'm going to be working for him."
Schwab, 51, would be paid $45,000 under the proposed contract. That amount, combined with the paid sick leave and vacation he has accrued during his 24 years of employment with the city, would equal his monthly compensation under his previous contract until June 30. His paid leave runs out at that time.
He now earns $14,900 a month, which equates to $178,800 per year.
Schwab would continue to receive medical insurance provided by the city.He would work from home as well as City Hall.
After June 30, the council will make a decision on Schwab's long-term future. "I think this is a nice transition," he said. "If things work out, then maybe I'll be able to continue on a part-time basis." The proposed contract reflects the council's direction given in closed session at its Nov. 18 meeting.
"We're trying to work with Tom and to help out our acting city manager,who is doing two jobs," said Mayor Maryetta Ferre. "We're planning to amend Tom's contract so it's beneficial to Tom and (to) relieve some of the pressure on Steve. We want this to be amicable to both parties and beneficial to the city."
If Steve Berry is Over Worked perhaps he should cut back on his non City Volunteer work for REEF during the Work Week. Or perhaps he is not capable of doing the City Manager Job. Perhaps his ineptitude is prohibiting the City Clerk and Staff from getting the job done.
The City of Grand Terrace seems to be ready to be a continued support of excessive compensation for the City Manager Tom Schwab even after he has stopped working. He should go on Disability if he is unable to work. If he has medical insurance and has been working and been paid so much in addition to getting a Free House and Free Vehicles all those years he should have much more resources than the average citizen in GT and the City has done little for the Regular Citizen who will be paying Mr. Schwab.
The city should be concerned with meeting its contractual obligations and limiting expenses including the cost of the City manager's Employment Contract.
In addition, I think it is time that the City Council Open up for Competitive Application the Job of City Manager, and have the Applicants offer to Low Bid their Applications. Have them submit there resumes and what they are willing to accept as compensation and the best qualified and lowest cost contractor gets the job.
Personal Feelings should not be an issue. Tom Schwab has been milking the City of Grand Terrace and he seems to have trained the City Council to surrender the City's Resources to his bidding. Steve Berry has been trained and nurtured to do the same thing and he is being positioned to become Tom Schwab's Mini Me.
This is not in the best interest of the City. This is not the best interest of the City... No let the Clerks and Secretaries who do the real work in the City Split Schwab's Pay, and get rid of both Schwab and Berry and their fixation on City Party Days and self promotion and greed. We'd have a better city.
Pay off Schwab according to what ever the contract stipulates and be done with it. We are seeing how well going into DEBT has Benefited the City of Grand Terrace RDA... and the contracts and plans Schwab has brought to this city... Thanks but no thanks... lets not continue to reward this man for the "Service" of the past. Lets dust off the past and move forward.
Tom Schwab can sell his city purchased home even in today's market and live in Kansas for the rest of his life.
GT to decide city manager's role
Stephen Wall, Staff Writer
Posted: 12/07/2008 09:59:51 PM PST
GRAND TERRACE - The work situation of City Manager Tom Schwab is scheduled to be settled by the City Council on Tuesday night.
Schwab has not worked since June when he was hospitalized with a brain injury.
The council will discuss modifying Schwab's contract to take into account his medical condition.
Under the proposed employment agreement, the city would pay Schwab as apart-time consultant through June 30. His main responsibility would be to prepare the city's 2009-2010 budget, as well as perform other duties determined by acting City Manager Steve Berry.
Schwab would have no supervisory responsibility over other employees and would put together the budget in consultation with Berry and the city's finance director. Berry would have the final say in the budget that gets presented to the council for approval.
"It's very clear that Steve is in charge," Schwab said Friday. "I'll do anything he wants me to do because I'm going to be working for him."
Schwab, 51, would be paid $45,000 under the proposed contract. That amount, combined with the paid sick leave and vacation he has accrued during his 24 years of employment with the city, would equal his monthly compensation under his previous contract until June 30. His paid leave runs out at that time.
He now earns $14,900 a month, which equates to $178,800 per year.
Schwab would continue to receive medical insurance provided by the city.He would work from home as well as City Hall.
After June 30, the council will make a decision on Schwab's long-term future. "I think this is a nice transition," he said. "If things work out, then maybe I'll be able to continue on a part-time basis." The proposed contract reflects the council's direction given in closed session at its Nov. 18 meeting.
"We're trying to work with Tom and to help out our acting city manager,who is doing two jobs," said Mayor Maryetta Ferre. "We're planning to amend Tom's contract so it's beneficial to Tom and (to) relieve some of the pressure on Steve. We want this to be amicable to both parties and beneficial to the city."
Friday, December 05, 2008
Who is Steve Berry Working for When We Pay Him?
Steve Berry a City Paid Employee apparently has sufficient time in his busy schedule during the day to take time to work for the Benefit of Riverside City Schools in a volunteer fund raising capacity for the REEF Non Profit. Now some of the activities of this organization directly benefit the children in the school district of Riverside. However, much of what is donated to this Organization is spent in funding trips to Safari type "Educational Enrichment for Teachers".
Here is the real problem I have with Steve Berry's involvement with this organization. When he attends a meeting on Wednesday Morning to its conclusion once a month... Does he take time unpaid while he Volunteers to serve on REEF? Does he take unpaid leave when he is attending REEF Events, or spends time soliciting funds for REEF? Or are we the citizens of Grand Terrace Subsidising his REEF Fund Raising efforts by paying for his time and labor.
This needs to be audited and IF he is working for REEF on GT City Time it should stop. It seems that the effort he expends on REEF could be spent on obtaining funds for OUR Children, and Our Youth in the CITY who PAYS for his time. Note on the REEF web page the number of times Steve Berry is attending events and accepting checks for the REEF funds. What were the meetings leading up to these contributions, their time and length. Is Grand Terrace paying for his time while he is spending time working for REEF? It is time to check this and all the accountability related to the "Contributions" he collects for his Party Days in Grand Terrace.
Often when I go to the City Hall, neither Steve or Tom are there.... this may be why. Perhaps the City Clerk and the "Staff" who run the city should be the only people the City should Pay for their work, and let Tom and Steve, retire/pursue their other interests on some one eles dime.
Here is the real problem I have with Steve Berry's involvement with this organization. When he attends a meeting on Wednesday Morning to its conclusion once a month... Does he take time unpaid while he Volunteers to serve on REEF? Does he take unpaid leave when he is attending REEF Events, or spends time soliciting funds for REEF? Or are we the citizens of Grand Terrace Subsidising his REEF Fund Raising efforts by paying for his time and labor.
This needs to be audited and IF he is working for REEF on GT City Time it should stop. It seems that the effort he expends on REEF could be spent on obtaining funds for OUR Children, and Our Youth in the CITY who PAYS for his time. Note on the REEF web page the number of times Steve Berry is attending events and accepting checks for the REEF funds. What were the meetings leading up to these contributions, their time and length. Is Grand Terrace paying for his time while he is spending time working for REEF? It is time to check this and all the accountability related to the "Contributions" he collects for his Party Days in Grand Terrace.
Often when I go to the City Hall, neither Steve or Tom are there.... this may be why. Perhaps the City Clerk and the "Staff" who run the city should be the only people the City should Pay for their work, and let Tom and Steve, retire/pursue their other interests on some one eles dime.
Wednesday, December 03, 2008
Where are the In Home Day Care Providers in GT
Pa
Do you know of in home day care in the city? Who has the oversight for these businesses, and why are they allowed to have "Clients" come to their home based businesses when other Home Based Businesses may not have "Clients" come to their home/business?
Shouldn't we have all home based businesses listed in GT on the City Web Page, and shouldn't all be paying taxes and have a business license? This is about fair and equal taxes and application of laws.
I know you have moved.... perhaps to no zone land somewhere.... but, you may know the answer to my question. You see there is a part of me who would like to do business with only businesses with a current GT Business License... but a complete list is not on the City Web Site, so it is not easy for me to know if a particular service is a Licensed Service in GT. In addition GT Business Licenses should require all holders to submit employee lists and have their right to work in GT tested by the E-Check system.
Just some thoughts,,, Hope you have some answers.
Dear Perplexed:
Why the entire up to date list of Current Businesses including Child Care and Group homes is not on the City Web Page is a mystery to me too. But, I think you'll get an answer like well some people don't want their private home address listed publicly. Their inclusion could be limited to the name of the business and business phone number and type of business IF this was a concern. However, if you have a Home Based Business... you decide to surrender your anonymity in getting a business license... and you should be prepared to enjoy all that entails.
I think you can get an entire list at the city counter... it may take a few days.... and there may be businesses not on the list for one reason or another. But, it is a fact there are more businesses than those listed on the City's web page.
Hope all is well in GT.. I do think the City could encourage Home Based Businesses in EVERY HOME as part of its sustainability efforts. A Free Business License for all Home Based Businesses, and a free web site, that offers Credit Card Service for payments and when Payments are made via the web site a service charge and Sales tax will be collected up front... This would justify High Speed Internet Improvements... and Free City Wide Web Access...
Gramps
Do you know of in home day care in the city? Who has the oversight for these businesses, and why are they allowed to have "Clients" come to their home based businesses when other Home Based Businesses may not have "Clients" come to their home/business?
Shouldn't we have all home based businesses listed in GT on the City Web Page, and shouldn't all be paying taxes and have a business license? This is about fair and equal taxes and application of laws.
I know you have moved.... perhaps to no zone land somewhere.... but, you may know the answer to my question. You see there is a part of me who would like to do business with only businesses with a current GT Business License... but a complete list is not on the City Web Site, so it is not easy for me to know if a particular service is a Licensed Service in GT. In addition GT Business Licenses should require all holders to submit employee lists and have their right to work in GT tested by the E-Check system.
Just some thoughts,,, Hope you have some answers.
Dear Perplexed:
Why the entire up to date list of Current Businesses including Child Care and Group homes is not on the City Web Page is a mystery to me too. But, I think you'll get an answer like well some people don't want their private home address listed publicly. Their inclusion could be limited to the name of the business and business phone number and type of business IF this was a concern. However, if you have a Home Based Business... you decide to surrender your anonymity in getting a business license... and you should be prepared to enjoy all that entails.
I think you can get an entire list at the city counter... it may take a few days.... and there may be businesses not on the list for one reason or another. But, it is a fact there are more businesses than those listed on the City's web page.
Hope all is well in GT.. I do think the City could encourage Home Based Businesses in EVERY HOME as part of its sustainability efforts. A Free Business License for all Home Based Businesses, and a free web site, that offers Credit Card Service for payments and when Payments are made via the web site a service charge and Sales tax will be collected up front... This would justify High Speed Internet Improvements... and Free City Wide Web Access...
Gramps
From the Email Inbox: Senior Center Delay Again...
Dear Grandpa,
Do you remember when you first started the blog? You said it would be better to hide our identity because the City will go after you. While it was an ambiguous statement at the time, I now see what you mean. With the power of Redevelopment and hidden decisions, the public is at a loss for making sound decisions. I am concerned that we (tax payers) will be stuck with this bill too. When will the citizens say enough? This project was never meant for the citizens of Grand Terrace. Joann Johnson has too much money to live there. Or maybe she will get one of the five apartments that will be for median income. The rest are for those on social security with no assets or income. I am not against housing seniors who are on social security. I am apprehensive of the City’s delusional actions and punishing the citizens because a few have the foresight to file a lawsuit based on an environmental impact report. It is my feeling that if enough people became aware of what this City Council is really costing us by their secretive, back-door agreements with developers, we could change Grand Terrace to a pro-family and pro-children community. Isn’t that the reason people moved here in the first place – The possibility of raising their children in a healthy environment? The City continues to misrepresent the impact these projects will have on the people who really count – The families of Grand Terrace.
How you may ask? Originally the Council put a 5% across the board property tax increase with no accountability. When that didn’t pass, they took away the Recreation Department. Little as it may have been, it had possibility. They put in parks with state monies, but put up signs that limit its use and don’t maintain the trails and vegetation. They create useless pocket-parks and erect useless, meaningless marble statues that cost way too much money. They conspire with developers to build high density housing and commercial development in an area that is at the most unhealthy living standards with regards to air, noise and traffic. I’m concerned that many have become numb to the fact that we don’t have to agree to this. It is obvious that we have no one supporting the youth on our City Council. The only way to change that is to consistently speak out.
Thank you for allowing a forum to do just that without the fear of retaliation from the City – Steve Berry, who will find a way to make your life miserable.
)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))0((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((
Pawww:
You were right again…. Darn you….
You said that there were still pending law suits, when the City Crowed they were going ahead because they “Won the Court Cases”.
You were right, that the Tax Payers will be funding the Building by the City’s Payment of 9.5 Million (Which is Debt Redevelopment Funds obligated by the City), and Tax Deferments, (That is money not paid to the County and the City). The CHEEP lease of the land to the Corporation for Better Housing, and then the use of BONDS to fund the completion of the project should all be suspect. Now why on earth did the city agree to put the City’s Funds up to be spent FIRST ? Why on earth did they just approve an additional $700.000.00 for the building?
Well, let us all remember the Corporation for Better Housing has been generous in its contributions to Political Campaigns, and Grand Terrace Days, and Party Funds managed by Steve Berry and Tom Schwab and the City Council.
The efforts to “appease the residents” did not result in the reduction of the density issues with the project. The appeasement was cosmetic not really addressing the problem of putting high, no VERY High density housing in a low density housing area. The hearings that lead to the approval of this plan were not done correctly and rather than start over when it would have been financially advisable, the “Management” of the city went on like a tank in a field of babes.
It is time the City is subject to a full Criminal Audit of all its actions and financial dealings and money management. This all stinks.
The Senior Center should have been built where it was planned on Barton Road where there are other services like the limited public transportation, stores and other shops.
You predicted the economic conditions we in Grand Terrace are now facing. Yep, it me the city change its approach to “Sustainability” the City should be promoting the planting of fruit trees, home gardens and the use of Chicken Tractors.
For anyone looking at this a Chicken Tractor holds 5 chickens and is moved around the lawn allowing the chickens to eat the grass and bugs as a diet supplement. They move around daily, provide eggs and meat, and trim the lawn… Roosters are not needed for eggs, and are by the way less noisy than your neighbor teenager band.
It is time for the City to bend over backwards to find a business that will actually MAKE JOBS other than Retail in Grand Terrace.
GT senior housing project delayed again
Stephen Wall, Staff Writer
Posted: 12/02/2008 09:56:05 PM PST
GRAND TERRACE - Construction on the city's first senior housing complex has been put on hold because of legal and financial issues.
The 120-unit apartment complex, known as the Blue Mountain Senior Villas, was supposed to open in February. Construction is about halfway completed on the project, located on Grand Terrace Road just east of Mount Vernon Avenue.
In addition to the apartments, the project is slated to include a 7,000-square-foot senior center and a 2.5-acre park.
Now, officials said the project may be delayed another nine months to a year.
The one- and two-bedroom project geared toward low- and middle-income seniors was approved by the City Council in 2005. A small group of residents subsequently filed a lawsuit, claiming that potential environmental impacts weren't adequately addressed.
A short time later, a San Bernardino Superior Court judge ruled there was a "fair argument" that the original proposal did not comply with California Environmental Quality Act requirements.
In response to the ruling, the city performed a detailed environmental study to analyze the potential impacts.
The study showed that any possible negative impacts - such as noise, traffic and air quality - could be reduced to less than significant levels.
As a result of the ruling, the city also agreed to reduce the height of the apartment complex and senior center from three stories to two and make other changes to appease residents' concerns.
The city's environmental report was upheld at the trial court level earlier this year.
Raymond Johnson, the Temecula-based attorney representing the group known as Citizens for Responsible and Open Government, filed a last-minute appeal of the ruling in mid-November.
"We felt the judge in the lower court made a mistake in his ruling relative to land-use impacts and the density of the project being inconsistent with the densities provided in the General Plan," Johnson said.
While the appeal has no direct effect on continued construction of the project, it will take up to a year before the court makes a decision, officials said.
The project is jointly funded by the city Redevelopment Agency and the Corporation for Better Housing, a Sherman Oaks-based nonprofit developer.
The city has used up its share of $9.5 million on the initial stages of construction. The remaining $10million to finish the project is coming from the developer in the form of bond money and tax credits.
Because of uncertainty in the credit markets, the mere existence of an appeal means that banks will not loan the developer the money to finish construction, said acting City Manager Steve Berry.
"The money is there," Berry said, "but the bank is refusing to loan it out until all the legal challenges are resolved."
JoAnn Johnson, the city's volunteer director of senior services, said residents have been waiting a long time for the housing complex to open.
"It's a real blow to us," she said of the latest delay.
Do you remember when you first started the blog? You said it would be better to hide our identity because the City will go after you. While it was an ambiguous statement at the time, I now see what you mean. With the power of Redevelopment and hidden decisions, the public is at a loss for making sound decisions. I am concerned that we (tax payers) will be stuck with this bill too. When will the citizens say enough? This project was never meant for the citizens of Grand Terrace. Joann Johnson has too much money to live there. Or maybe she will get one of the five apartments that will be for median income. The rest are for those on social security with no assets or income. I am not against housing seniors who are on social security. I am apprehensive of the City’s delusional actions and punishing the citizens because a few have the foresight to file a lawsuit based on an environmental impact report. It is my feeling that if enough people became aware of what this City Council is really costing us by their secretive, back-door agreements with developers, we could change Grand Terrace to a pro-family and pro-children community. Isn’t that the reason people moved here in the first place – The possibility of raising their children in a healthy environment? The City continues to misrepresent the impact these projects will have on the people who really count – The families of Grand Terrace.
How you may ask? Originally the Council put a 5% across the board property tax increase with no accountability. When that didn’t pass, they took away the Recreation Department. Little as it may have been, it had possibility. They put in parks with state monies, but put up signs that limit its use and don’t maintain the trails and vegetation. They create useless pocket-parks and erect useless, meaningless marble statues that cost way too much money. They conspire with developers to build high density housing and commercial development in an area that is at the most unhealthy living standards with regards to air, noise and traffic. I’m concerned that many have become numb to the fact that we don’t have to agree to this. It is obvious that we have no one supporting the youth on our City Council. The only way to change that is to consistently speak out.
Thank you for allowing a forum to do just that without the fear of retaliation from the City – Steve Berry, who will find a way to make your life miserable.
)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))0((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((
Pawww:
You were right again…. Darn you….
You said that there were still pending law suits, when the City Crowed they were going ahead because they “Won the Court Cases”.
You were right, that the Tax Payers will be funding the Building by the City’s Payment of 9.5 Million (Which is Debt Redevelopment Funds obligated by the City), and Tax Deferments, (That is money not paid to the County and the City). The CHEEP lease of the land to the Corporation for Better Housing, and then the use of BONDS to fund the completion of the project should all be suspect. Now why on earth did the city agree to put the City’s Funds up to be spent FIRST ? Why on earth did they just approve an additional $700.000.00 for the building?
Well, let us all remember the Corporation for Better Housing has been generous in its contributions to Political Campaigns, and Grand Terrace Days, and Party Funds managed by Steve Berry and Tom Schwab and the City Council.
The efforts to “appease the residents” did not result in the reduction of the density issues with the project. The appeasement was cosmetic not really addressing the problem of putting high, no VERY High density housing in a low density housing area. The hearings that lead to the approval of this plan were not done correctly and rather than start over when it would have been financially advisable, the “Management” of the city went on like a tank in a field of babes.
It is time the City is subject to a full Criminal Audit of all its actions and financial dealings and money management. This all stinks.
The Senior Center should have been built where it was planned on Barton Road where there are other services like the limited public transportation, stores and other shops.
You predicted the economic conditions we in Grand Terrace are now facing. Yep, it me the city change its approach to “Sustainability” the City should be promoting the planting of fruit trees, home gardens and the use of Chicken Tractors.
For anyone looking at this a Chicken Tractor holds 5 chickens and is moved around the lawn allowing the chickens to eat the grass and bugs as a diet supplement. They move around daily, provide eggs and meat, and trim the lawn… Roosters are not needed for eggs, and are by the way less noisy than your neighbor teenager band.
It is time for the City to bend over backwards to find a business that will actually MAKE JOBS other than Retail in Grand Terrace.
GT senior housing project delayed again
Stephen Wall, Staff Writer
Posted: 12/02/2008 09:56:05 PM PST
GRAND TERRACE - Construction on the city's first senior housing complex has been put on hold because of legal and financial issues.
The 120-unit apartment complex, known as the Blue Mountain Senior Villas, was supposed to open in February. Construction is about halfway completed on the project, located on Grand Terrace Road just east of Mount Vernon Avenue.
In addition to the apartments, the project is slated to include a 7,000-square-foot senior center and a 2.5-acre park.
Now, officials said the project may be delayed another nine months to a year.
The one- and two-bedroom project geared toward low- and middle-income seniors was approved by the City Council in 2005. A small group of residents subsequently filed a lawsuit, claiming that potential environmental impacts weren't adequately addressed.
A short time later, a San Bernardino Superior Court judge ruled there was a "fair argument" that the original proposal did not comply with California Environmental Quality Act requirements.
In response to the ruling, the city performed a detailed environmental study to analyze the potential impacts.
The study showed that any possible negative impacts - such as noise, traffic and air quality - could be reduced to less than significant levels.
As a result of the ruling, the city also agreed to reduce the height of the apartment complex and senior center from three stories to two and make other changes to appease residents' concerns.
The city's environmental report was upheld at the trial court level earlier this year.
Raymond Johnson, the Temecula-based attorney representing the group known as Citizens for Responsible and Open Government, filed a last-minute appeal of the ruling in mid-November.
"We felt the judge in the lower court made a mistake in his ruling relative to land-use impacts and the density of the project being inconsistent with the densities provided in the General Plan," Johnson said.
While the appeal has no direct effect on continued construction of the project, it will take up to a year before the court makes a decision, officials said.
The project is jointly funded by the city Redevelopment Agency and the Corporation for Better Housing, a Sherman Oaks-based nonprofit developer.
The city has used up its share of $9.5 million on the initial stages of construction. The remaining $10million to finish the project is coming from the developer in the form of bond money and tax credits.
Because of uncertainty in the credit markets, the mere existence of an appeal means that banks will not loan the developer the money to finish construction, said acting City Manager Steve Berry.
"The money is there," Berry said, "but the bank is refusing to loan it out until all the legal challenges are resolved."
JoAnn Johnson, the city's volunteer director of senior services, said residents have been waiting a long time for the housing complex to open.
"It's a real blow to us," she said of the latest delay.
Monday, December 01, 2008
Virginia Harford: Caught on Camera
Paw: Look who got caught on camera.
Virginia Harford who is quick to criticise people for not parking a shopping cart to her satisfaction got a ticket for running a red light in Grand Terrace. She writes as if it was some sort of shock that camera enforcement would be used on HER... by golly... and the cost of the ticket was also a shock to her. She further suggested in her writing that the Camera Enforcement was done without public hearings, or meetings.
Well, the fact is.
The City Council had the Camera Enforcement on the Agenda at meetings Virginia attended. Did she object.... NO
At the Meeting the cost of the ticket was discussed, did she object ..... NO
The Finances of the Camera Enforcement were discussed, did she object .... NO
Does the camera show her going through a red or a yellow light? Bet it is RED.... she stopped looking or paying attention when it was yellow.... and did not care to pay attention to the fact it had turned Red. GEE...
Her statement, we all make errors at one time or another and we all don't get tickets. She is right, some times we KILL People with our cars, some times we cause hundreds of dollars of property damage. Some times we shock ourselves into being better drivers. If you run a red light and say... gee I am lucky there was no police officer to give me a ticket, there is something WRONG with your thinking, and you should park your car and walk. IF you run a red light you should say, wow, I have better be more careful, and be darn glad no one is dead or hurt by your carelessness.
Red lights are for the safety of everyone. Once upon a time the Corner of Mt. Vernon and Barton Rd only had a stop sign. As a matter of fact it was the only 4 way stop in town. Things have changed. Camera Enforcement is one of those changes.
If anyone has a problem with Camera Enforcement it is a statement that they feel they should be able to get away with breaking a law if a Police Officer HUMAN is not at the time and place they break the law. This is wrong headed thinking. It would be nice if SPEED Enforcment could be done by Camera.
Virginia Harford... the picture of you breaking the law was done on a PUBLIC ROAD... That is not an invasion of your Privacy. Now if you want Big Brother to stop telling you can't have a chicken in your back yard, I'll take your side on that one. Your back yard, Your HOME should be free of Big Brother... but, our roads belong to ALL of us.
Shame on you Virginia Harford,
Shame on you for driving badly.
Shame on you for being pretentious.
The COURT RECORS show SHE SPENT $240.00 not $340.00 and that she did ask for a payment plan... but paid in full just after the court date..
TRAFFIC SCHOOL RED LIGHT
$210.00
DMV LOOK-UP FEE
$30.00
Total:
$240.00
You do not have the FREEDOM to RUN RED LIGHTS....
JUST BECAUSE YOU ARE Virginia Harford.
She can offer the Citation Number and her car licence plate number so we all can check the picture of her violation on the County Court's Web Page... IF she wants to PROVE she was not running a Red Light.
09:17 PM PST on Tuesday, November 11, 2008
By VIRGINIA HARFORD
More and more cameras are being installed at intersections.
I've noticed a couple in Grand Terrace and several in Loma Linda, San Bernardino, Riverside and Redlands. Five will be coming to Corona ("Locations debated for cameras," Nov. 11).
I suspect these are moneymakers and not entirely attempts to thwart speeders or red-light violators. After all, they seem intended to catch average drivers making minor errors. But then, I may be exhibiting sour grapes.
One day, I was driving south on Mt. Vernon Avenue in Grand Terrace and came to Barton Road. I was planning to turn right, but the light was yellow, and as I punched the accelerator, the light turned red and the cameras caught me.
Was it really worth a $390 fine, not to mention the time lost going to court to try for a reduction? The judge asked if I wanted to go to traffic school ($50). I said, "Yes," thinking that perhaps I could learn how to avoid a violation in the future.
More hours were lost trying to decipher the lessons. The court reduced the fine by $100, but with the $50 charge for school, I still ended up owing $340. What would the judge have done to me if I had been broke, put me in jail?
Loma Linda has also decided to fine anyone seen smoking in the city. Is Loma Linda offering free help for people who want to stop smoking?
I have not smoked in 25 years. Quitting was the most difficult thing I ever did. But can we serve as judge and jury over the poor smoker? Isn't his nicotine addiction enough of a burden?
Someone decided without my permission or yours that we will need a converter box for television sets that do not have digital or high-definition capabilities. Experts say we will be delighted with the superior reception. What if we are satisfied with our current reception? What about those who can't afford a box? You can apply for a price reduction, but the box is still going to cost you.
We are having to give up more and more freedoms. Are these deficits justified?
I love my country. I know from experience that it is the best country in the world in which to live. But Big Brother lurks, and that worries me.
Virginia Harford is a resident of Grand Terrace.
Virginia Harford who is quick to criticise people for not parking a shopping cart to her satisfaction got a ticket for running a red light in Grand Terrace. She writes as if it was some sort of shock that camera enforcement would be used on HER... by golly... and the cost of the ticket was also a shock to her. She further suggested in her writing that the Camera Enforcement was done without public hearings, or meetings.
Well, the fact is.
The City Council had the Camera Enforcement on the Agenda at meetings Virginia attended. Did she object.... NO
At the Meeting the cost of the ticket was discussed, did she object ..... NO
The Finances of the Camera Enforcement were discussed, did she object .... NO
Does the camera show her going through a red or a yellow light? Bet it is RED.... she stopped looking or paying attention when it was yellow.... and did not care to pay attention to the fact it had turned Red. GEE...
Her statement, we all make errors at one time or another and we all don't get tickets. She is right, some times we KILL People with our cars, some times we cause hundreds of dollars of property damage. Some times we shock ourselves into being better drivers. If you run a red light and say... gee I am lucky there was no police officer to give me a ticket, there is something WRONG with your thinking, and you should park your car and walk. IF you run a red light you should say, wow, I have better be more careful, and be darn glad no one is dead or hurt by your carelessness.
Red lights are for the safety of everyone. Once upon a time the Corner of Mt. Vernon and Barton Rd only had a stop sign. As a matter of fact it was the only 4 way stop in town. Things have changed. Camera Enforcement is one of those changes.
If anyone has a problem with Camera Enforcement it is a statement that they feel they should be able to get away with breaking a law if a Police Officer HUMAN is not at the time and place they break the law. This is wrong headed thinking. It would be nice if SPEED Enforcment could be done by Camera.
Virginia Harford... the picture of you breaking the law was done on a PUBLIC ROAD... That is not an invasion of your Privacy. Now if you want Big Brother to stop telling you can't have a chicken in your back yard, I'll take your side on that one. Your back yard, Your HOME should be free of Big Brother... but, our roads belong to ALL of us.
Shame on you Virginia Harford,
Shame on you for driving badly.
Shame on you for being pretentious.
The COURT RECORS show SHE SPENT $240.00 not $340.00 and that she did ask for a payment plan... but paid in full just after the court date..
TRAFFIC SCHOOL RED LIGHT
$210.00
DMV LOOK-UP FEE
$30.00
Total:
$240.00
You do not have the FREEDOM to RUN RED LIGHTS....
JUST BECAUSE YOU ARE Virginia Harford.
She can offer the Citation Number and her car licence plate number so we all can check the picture of her violation on the County Court's Web Page... IF she wants to PROVE she was not running a Red Light.
09:17 PM PST on Tuesday, November 11, 2008
By VIRGINIA HARFORD
More and more cameras are being installed at intersections.
I've noticed a couple in Grand Terrace and several in Loma Linda, San Bernardino, Riverside and Redlands. Five will be coming to Corona ("Locations debated for cameras," Nov. 11).
I suspect these are moneymakers and not entirely attempts to thwart speeders or red-light violators. After all, they seem intended to catch average drivers making minor errors. But then, I may be exhibiting sour grapes.
One day, I was driving south on Mt. Vernon Avenue in Grand Terrace and came to Barton Road. I was planning to turn right, but the light was yellow, and as I punched the accelerator, the light turned red and the cameras caught me.
Was it really worth a $390 fine, not to mention the time lost going to court to try for a reduction? The judge asked if I wanted to go to traffic school ($50). I said, "Yes," thinking that perhaps I could learn how to avoid a violation in the future.
More hours were lost trying to decipher the lessons. The court reduced the fine by $100, but with the $50 charge for school, I still ended up owing $340. What would the judge have done to me if I had been broke, put me in jail?
Loma Linda has also decided to fine anyone seen smoking in the city. Is Loma Linda offering free help for people who want to stop smoking?
I have not smoked in 25 years. Quitting was the most difficult thing I ever did. But can we serve as judge and jury over the poor smoker? Isn't his nicotine addiction enough of a burden?
Someone decided without my permission or yours that we will need a converter box for television sets that do not have digital or high-definition capabilities. Experts say we will be delighted with the superior reception. What if we are satisfied with our current reception? What about those who can't afford a box? You can apply for a price reduction, but the box is still going to cost you.
We are having to give up more and more freedoms. Are these deficits justified?
I love my country. I know from experience that it is the best country in the world in which to live. But Big Brother lurks, and that worries me.
Virginia Harford is a resident of Grand Terrace.
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Happy Thanks Giving Day...
Paw...
Thank you for the blog, and pass on my thanks for all folks who aid the community and do not get paid for it, travel on tax payer's dime, or use service as self promotion. These are the true foundation to community and these are the folks for which I am thankful.
Let us all remember the men and women serving in the Military and their families.
Thanks again gramps....
Thank you for the blog, and pass on my thanks for all folks who aid the community and do not get paid for it, travel on tax payer's dime, or use service as self promotion. These are the true foundation to community and these are the folks for which I am thankful.
Let us all remember the men and women serving in the Military and their families.
Thanks again gramps....
Monday, November 24, 2008
Dear Pawww:
Steve Berry's Party Plan of Civic Management is interesting:
The Youth Sports Teams are denied any City Support for their activities other than the space and even that they have to kick in fees to "Reserve the Field" and pay for lights. So they put us all at risk by selling fireworks and earn 15,000.00 or perhaps as much as 20, 000.00. This added to the fees paid by parents provide activities for Youth Year Round. Sure there are savings that could be made in these activities... but add up all the hours and kids served, and parents that get connected with their children and community.
Then... look at the cost of Grand Terrace Gala.... a Private Party for a "Select Few" of the Favored Friends of the City Council, Mayor and City Manager, and Assistant City Manager.
The cost listed does not include the hours of City Employees spent in planning and pulling off the event... One Day, One Event and only a few citizens served.
Now... look at the Halloween Haunt. This was at a time done with public contributions, and the GT Woman's Club, and businesses. Then Steve Berry made it his show... along with the even more expensive Grand Terrace Days. The Halloween Haunt has become a Steve Berry event and is used by Lee Ann Garcia as a Campaign Event... did she report the City as a Donor to her Campaign? Her booth was effective, tacky but effective as she got name recognition and elected again. Were the other candidates offered space at the City Event?
Again, the time of City Employees Planning and Holding and Cleaning up after the event is missing from the Financial Report. Also missing is a record of the Contributions made for the event and the number of hours spent by city staff requesting funds. Why is the city spending money on a mailer for the HH? That is just dumb, unless you benefit from the expenditure some way. Like the more people who come will come see my campaign booth.
Grand Terrace Days... well there is a whole bunch of time and money there too... Every Hour and CENT should be accounted for or the people in charge in the city should lose their jobs. Who do they think they are... the US Treasury or something. No... accountability should start right here at GT CITY HALL.
Tax Payers Have a Right to Be UPSET about the use of the City Funds. Demand an Audit.
Oh this is the RDA and City Council that thinks DEBT is Good... see how good this is working...
thanks for the warning Gramps... Perhaps the New City Council will make corrections and be less like the Auto CEO's and make the City Serve the Citizens not the Citizens serve the Council and City Staff as if they were CEO's.
Steve Berry's Party Plan of Civic Management is interesting:
The Youth Sports Teams are denied any City Support for their activities other than the space and even that they have to kick in fees to "Reserve the Field" and pay for lights. So they put us all at risk by selling fireworks and earn 15,000.00 or perhaps as much as 20, 000.00. This added to the fees paid by parents provide activities for Youth Year Round. Sure there are savings that could be made in these activities... but add up all the hours and kids served, and parents that get connected with their children and community.
Then... look at the cost of Grand Terrace Gala.... a Private Party for a "Select Few" of the Favored Friends of the City Council, Mayor and City Manager, and Assistant City Manager.
The cost listed does not include the hours of City Employees spent in planning and pulling off the event... One Day, One Event and only a few citizens served.
Now... look at the Halloween Haunt. This was at a time done with public contributions, and the GT Woman's Club, and businesses. Then Steve Berry made it his show... along with the even more expensive Grand Terrace Days. The Halloween Haunt has become a Steve Berry event and is used by Lee Ann Garcia as a Campaign Event... did she report the City as a Donor to her Campaign? Her booth was effective, tacky but effective as she got name recognition and elected again. Were the other candidates offered space at the City Event?
Again, the time of City Employees Planning and Holding and Cleaning up after the event is missing from the Financial Report. Also missing is a record of the Contributions made for the event and the number of hours spent by city staff requesting funds. Why is the city spending money on a mailer for the HH? That is just dumb, unless you benefit from the expenditure some way. Like the more people who come will come see my campaign booth.
Grand Terrace Days... well there is a whole bunch of time and money there too... Every Hour and CENT should be accounted for or the people in charge in the city should lose their jobs. Who do they think they are... the US Treasury or something. No... accountability should start right here at GT CITY HALL.
Tax Payers Have a Right to Be UPSET about the use of the City Funds. Demand an Audit.
Oh this is the RDA and City Council that thinks DEBT is Good... see how good this is working...
thanks for the warning Gramps... Perhaps the New City Council will make corrections and be less like the Auto CEO's and make the City Serve the Citizens not the Citizens serve the Council and City Staff as if they were CEO's.
Saturday, November 22, 2008
If We had a Jet they would Fly it to the Post Office
CITY FUNDS SPENDING ON “ENTERTAINMENT”
Missing from these numbers are the Direct Cost of City Employee Hours of Labor Spent on Party Planning and Attendance
30th Anniversary Gala
(Private Party Not a PUBLIC EVENT)
SB County Sheriff 's Dept ................................................$ 2,175.00
Balloon Team ....................................................................$ 2,299.11
11/11/2008 Boy Scout Troop 40 .....................................$ 250.00
11/11/2008 J.Z's Party ..................................................$ 2,785.21
111/11/08 Junipero Sierra House ..................................$ 250.00
10/16/2008 Cashbox-Montes ........................................$ 150.00
10/16/2008 Dr. Robert Knop .....................................$ 1,500.00
10/16/2008 10/16/2008 ............................................$ 3,500.00
10/30/2008 Souvenir photo frames ..............................$ 575.28
Cost of Private Party $ 13,484.60
Halloween Haunt
10/30/2008 Game Booth Rentals ................................$ 1,373.81
1030/08 Studio 33 Productions ..................................$ 9,152.30
Studio 33 Productions ..................................................$ 4,487.92
11/11/2008 Halloween Haunt ........................................$ 10.89
Halloween Haunt...............................................................$ 16.16
Halloween Haunt ............................................................$ 193.69
Halloween Haunt...............................................................$ 70.51
11/11/2008 Mailer .....................................................$ 1,449.87
October Costume Rent Owens/Montes .....................$ 150.00
October Halloween Candy ............................................$ 369.96
October Halloween Candy ............................................$ 245.67
October S Berry/lunch ....................................................$ 16.73
October Halloween Candy.............................................$ 582.52
October Halloween Candy ............................................$ 915.76
Cost of Halloween Haunt Public Party $ 19,035.79
Other Questionable Expenditures
11/11/2008 Embroidery-shirts ...............................$ 90.46
embroidered blankets/bags ......................................$ 796.19
10/28/2008 Embroidery-shirts ...............................$ 119.54
11/11/2008 Golden Tiger Martial Arts....................$ 206.50
10/17/2008 Pumpkins-Daycare ...............................$ 277.75
10/17/2008 Book Fair Fundraiser.............................$ 632.64
10/13/2008 Berry/Garcia Lunch .............................$ 7.00
10/15/2008 Lunch L. Ronnow ..................................$ 12.00
10/19/2008 flowers-Alldredge..................................$ 67.35
October Programs .........................................................$ 65.78
10/4/2008 League Conference-Garcia/Ferre ........$ 828.14
10/5/2008 Preschool Classroom Supplies ...............$ 173.65
10/6/2008 Child Care Ann Celebration ...................$ 29.14
10/28/2008 Install Hall Fire Alarm....................$ 19,500.00
10/28/2008 Joint Newsletter Contribution...........$ 870.00
10/28/2008 Bottle Water........................................$ 320.08
STRANGE Expenditures $ 23,996.22
City Staff BBQ
10/16/2008 ....................$ 35.40
10/18/2008 ....................$ 32.33
10/19/2008 ....................$ 33.37
Employee BBQ.................... $ 178.50
Also missing is the accounting of Funds "Contributed" to the Events. Grand Terrace Days Financials and Labor Report has also not been made PUBLIC in Full Detail. WHY?
Monday, November 10, 2008
Measure G Passes with Caution:
The Voting Citizens of Colton Joint Unified School District approve Measure G with the intent the funds build Schools, not foot ball fields or pay Administrators Wages and Perks.
The average cost will be YEARS of paying an additional 40.00 per 100,000 value on your house tax bill...
So folks you have increased your taxes, with the intent on building schools. These schools will have increased operational costs which will be a need for more funds... SO be ready to be sure your taxes are paid and spent for what you want.
The average cost will be YEARS of paying an additional 40.00 per 100,000 value on your house tax bill...
So folks you have increased your taxes, with the intent on building schools. These schools will have increased operational costs which will be a need for more funds... SO be ready to be sure your taxes are paid and spent for what you want.
From the Email InBox: Sheriff Contact
From the Email InBox:
On Sun, 11/9/08,
Brian R
Sunday, November 9, 2008, 6:30 PM
You may want to confirm, but I believe that cell phone 911 calls from the city of Grand Terrace now go directly to the Sheriff's Dept; not to the CHP as the last poster indicated. I called 911 from Rollins Park 2 weeks ago on my cell phone and the Sheriff dispatcher answered.
Brian
Thanks, that is great news... I'll post it... I recall that was a plan to happen... It is good to have the Non Emergency Sheriff's Number Preprogramed too... I'll have to look it up, I have already changed my phone to my new Sheriff Dept...
Gramps...
On Sun, 11/9/08,
Brian R
Sunday, November 9, 2008, 6:30 PM
You may want to confirm, but I believe that cell phone 911 calls from the city of Grand Terrace now go directly to the Sheriff's Dept; not to the CHP as the last poster indicated. I called 911 from Rollins Park 2 weeks ago on my cell phone and the Sheriff dispatcher answered.
Brian
Thanks, that is great news... I'll post it... I recall that was a plan to happen... It is good to have the Non Emergency Sheriff's Number Preprogramed too... I'll have to look it up, I have already changed my phone to my new Sheriff Dept...
Gramps...
Sunday, November 09, 2008
Crime and Economics Affect GT
10:00 PM PST on Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Grand Terrace
Car burglary suspects tied to other break-ins
Detectives believe two men charged last week with burglarizing a vehicle at a Grand Terrace apartment complex committed numerous other break-ins in San Bernardino and Los Angeles counties, and are urging victims to contact them to see if their property has been recovered.
Alonzo Jay Lucas, 40, and Jaymes Greathouse, 30, both of San Bernardino, pleaded not guilty to felony counts of grand theft stemming from an Oct. 24 theft of tires and rims from a car at the Highland Apartments in Grand Terrace.
Lucas also is charged with assault with a deadly weapon and receiving stolen property.
Lucas was arrested that night by deputies investigating a vehicle break-in and attempt to run over a security guard. Greathouse was arrested four days later.
Lucas also is suspected of stealing a checkbook from another car at the complex and giving it to his wife, Michella Roan, 39, who was arrested on suspicion of depositing a forged check into her account, a sheriff's news release said.
During a search of Lucas' storage unit, detectives found a Los Angeles police badge, handcuffs, a baton and ammunition reported stolen in June from an officer's car in West Covina , detectives said.
For further information, call Detective Al Ixco at 909-387-3545.
--Paul LaRocco
GRAMPS: Please post this...
This explains all the activity the other night.... it also demonstrates that with the economy getting bad Crime goes up and GT is a easy target. We must increase our community awareness and get to know our neighbors and be more alert to warning signs of criminal acts. Take a cell phone picture, and call in crimes in action... and make notes of licence plates if you feel that something isn't just quite right. IF there is a crime you may have captured the clue that is needed to make an arrest.
Be Safe Out There... Have Emergency Numbers Right Next your Phones... and pre program your Cell Phone for the Sheriff's Number remember 911 on your cell phone calls the CHiP's
Thanks for keeping the blog up.. sorry you moved....
In the Pink...
Grand Terrace
Car burglary suspects tied to other break-ins
Detectives believe two men charged last week with burglarizing a vehicle at a Grand Terrace apartment complex committed numerous other break-ins in San Bernardino and Los Angeles counties, and are urging victims to contact them to see if their property has been recovered.
Alonzo Jay Lucas, 40, and Jaymes Greathouse, 30, both of San Bernardino, pleaded not guilty to felony counts of grand theft stemming from an Oct. 24 theft of tires and rims from a car at the Highland Apartments in Grand Terrace.
Lucas also is charged with assault with a deadly weapon and receiving stolen property.
Lucas was arrested that night by deputies investigating a vehicle break-in and attempt to run over a security guard. Greathouse was arrested four days later.
Lucas also is suspected of stealing a checkbook from another car at the complex and giving it to his wife, Michella Roan, 39, who was arrested on suspicion of depositing a forged check into her account, a sheriff's news release said.
During a search of Lucas' storage unit, detectives found a Los Angeles police badge, handcuffs, a baton and ammunition reported stolen in June from an officer's car in West Covina , detectives said.
For further information, call Detective Al Ixco at 909-387-3545.
--Paul LaRocco
GRAMPS: Please post this...
This explains all the activity the other night.... it also demonstrates that with the economy getting bad Crime goes up and GT is a easy target. We must increase our community awareness and get to know our neighbors and be more alert to warning signs of criminal acts. Take a cell phone picture, and call in crimes in action... and make notes of licence plates if you feel that something isn't just quite right. IF there is a crime you may have captured the clue that is needed to make an arrest.
Be Safe Out There... Have Emergency Numbers Right Next your Phones... and pre program your Cell Phone for the Sheriff's Number remember 911 on your cell phone calls the CHiP's
Thanks for keeping the blog up.. sorry you moved....
In the Pink...
Thursday, November 06, 2008
New Council Member
Welcome to the City Council Walt... Perhaps your first night will include questions about Lunch Fund for Lee Ann and Steve and the City Staff... speaking of having a hand out to the public.
For those who lost this time around.... thanks for putting yourself up for public service. Please try again, in non Presidential Election Years the number of votes you got may have resulted in your being elected. So Please hang in there and run again... AND Please become a member of the "Other Side of the Podium" as the Public needs a voice OFF of the COUNCIL to ask the inconvenient questions, not on the "Agenda".
Restaurant owner takes a seat at Grand Terrace council table
By Stephen Wall, Staff Writer
Article Launched: 11/05/2008 09:59:28 PM PST
GRAND TERRACE - Walt the pasta maker is cooking up a recipe for success on the City Council.
Walt Stanckiewitz, the 58-year-old owner of La Pasta Italia restaurant, wrapped up a spot on the council Tuesday night.
Incumbents Jim Miller and Lee Ann Garcia won the other two seats that were up for grabs in the six-candidate race.
A native of Munich, Germany, Stanckiewitz served in the U.S. Army from 1972 to 1978, achieving the rank of captain. He and his wife, Monique, have operated their restaurant on Barton Road for nearly 20 years. They have a 20-year-old daughter, Lindsey.
The couple moved to the city after losing their Running Springs home in the Slide Fire last year.
Stanckiewitz said he will bring the perspective of a small business owner to the council.
He thinks the city's biggest challenge is balancing the budget in the midst of tough economic times. He also wants to make sure that a new high school and Stater Bros. market get built.
"We need to be very judicious in how we spend our money," Stanckiewitz said. "The last thing we want to do is go to the residents with our hand out."
For those who lost this time around.... thanks for putting yourself up for public service. Please try again, in non Presidential Election Years the number of votes you got may have resulted in your being elected. So Please hang in there and run again... AND Please become a member of the "Other Side of the Podium" as the Public needs a voice OFF of the COUNCIL to ask the inconvenient questions, not on the "Agenda".
Restaurant owner takes a seat at Grand Terrace council table
By Stephen Wall, Staff Writer
Article Launched: 11/05/2008 09:59:28 PM PST
GRAND TERRACE - Walt the pasta maker is cooking up a recipe for success on the City Council.
Walt Stanckiewitz, the 58-year-old owner of La Pasta Italia restaurant, wrapped up a spot on the council Tuesday night.
Incumbents Jim Miller and Lee Ann Garcia won the other two seats that were up for grabs in the six-candidate race.
A native of Munich, Germany, Stanckiewitz served in the U.S. Army from 1972 to 1978, achieving the rank of captain. He and his wife, Monique, have operated their restaurant on Barton Road for nearly 20 years. They have a 20-year-old daughter, Lindsey.
The couple moved to the city after losing their Running Springs home in the Slide Fire last year.
Stanckiewitz said he will bring the perspective of a small business owner to the council.
He thinks the city's biggest challenge is balancing the budget in the midst of tough economic times. He also wants to make sure that a new high school and Stater Bros. market get built.
"We need to be very judicious in how we spend our money," Stanckiewitz said. "The last thing we want to do is go to the residents with our hand out."
Wednesday, November 05, 2008
Free LUNCH? Breaking a Campaign Statement...
Lee Ann Garcia... Eats on City Funds... and the Free Lunch... Why is the city paying for a free lunch for a Council Member, City Staff and BBQ for a Week?
Why has Halloween Haunt been allowed to be turned into a Political Event??? BOO that is Scary it needs to stop... beyond tacky...
It is time for a Full Audit of Cost and Contributions to the HH Event, including Hours spent by City workers. It is getting out of hand and being abused enough to cross that Ethics line.
Can you READ THIS SIGN...???
Paww.....As to signs noted per paragraph of Nov. 1st.
Was similar situation mentioned of the Visual Impact situation at a Planning Commission meeting of some months ago when the NEW OAC was brought up.
As the proposed site is hidden via a depressed freeway, and thus when driving by it on the I-215, the land will appear high on a knoll, how then is the site to attract investors of visitors? Other than silence at the meeting, the only solution mentioned was to line the edge of the freeway chain link fence with billboards. They of course will be "temporary".
But isn't that against present code? YES.... but the City Think is.....
Not if the act is being done by the City of G.T. for their own benefit. ...
Word is if the Chain Link Fence Billboards are going to go up Cal Trans may have Words for The City of Grand Terrace... "Cute Signs" along Barton Rd... well that is again... a City Do but Local Business Don't Do Code of ETHICS..
Was similar situation mentioned of the Visual Impact situation at a Planning Commission meeting of some months ago when the NEW OAC was brought up.
As the proposed site is hidden via a depressed freeway, and thus when driving by it on the I-215, the land will appear high on a knoll, how then is the site to attract investors of visitors? Other than silence at the meeting, the only solution mentioned was to line the edge of the freeway chain link fence with billboards. They of course will be "temporary".
But isn't that against present code? YES.... but the City Think is.....
Not if the act is being done by the City of G.T. for their own benefit. ...
Word is if the Chain Link Fence Billboards are going to go up Cal Trans may have Words for The City of Grand Terrace... "Cute Signs" along Barton Rd... well that is again... a City Do but Local Business Don't Do Code of ETHICS..
PROTECT YOURSELF and TURN IN THE SCUM
Why aren’t our news papers reporting this?
Contra Costa Times
Five implicated in foreclosure scam
By Daily News wire services
Article Launched: 11/04/2008 10:10:54 AM PST
Three people were arrested and two others are being sought in connection with an alleged foreclosure scam ring, California Attorney General Jerry Brown announced today.
Saul Amador of West Covina , Jesus Flores of Baldwin Park and Rosa Conrado of San Bernardino were taken into custody by agents from the California Department of Justice's Bureau of Investigation and Intelligence, according to Brown's office.
Arrest warrants have been issued for Juan Perez of Grand Terrace and David Giron of Ontario .
"It is appalling how these scammers took advantage of desperate homeowners and ripped them off for thousands of dollars," Brown said. "Our campaign against mortgage scams masquerading as foreclosure assistance will continue and even intensify."
The arrests stemmed from an investigation into First Gov, also operating as Foreclosure Prevention Services, which solicited hundreds of homeowners with fliers offering to help them stop the foreclosure process on their homes, authorities said.
Homeowners were allegedly falsely told that their mortgages would be renegotiated, that monthly payments would be reduced, and that any delinquent loan amounts would be transferred to the renegotiated principal in exchange for an upfront fee ranging from $1,500 to $5,000, according to the Attorney General's Office.
Authorities warned that it is unlawful for companies to promise to help consumers in foreclosure collect any money upfront, before they have done what was promised.
The state Attorney General's Office advised that homeowners who are behind in their mortgage payments or whose homes are already in foreclosure can seek services at little or no cost.
For information about the serivces, call -888-995-46473 or see www.yourhome.ca.gov or www.995hope.org.
Contra Costa Times
Five implicated in foreclosure scam
By Daily News wire services
Article Launched: 11/04/2008 10:10:54 AM PST
Three people were arrested and two others are being sought in connection with an alleged foreclosure scam ring, California Attorney General Jerry Brown announced today.
Saul Amador of West Covina , Jesus Flores of Baldwin Park and Rosa Conrado of San Bernardino were taken into custody by agents from the California Department of Justice's Bureau of Investigation and Intelligence, according to Brown's office.
Arrest warrants have been issued for Juan Perez of Grand Terrace and David Giron of Ontario .
"It is appalling how these scammers took advantage of desperate homeowners and ripped them off for thousands of dollars," Brown said. "Our campaign against mortgage scams masquerading as foreclosure assistance will continue and even intensify."
The arrests stemmed from an investigation into First Gov, also operating as Foreclosure Prevention Services, which solicited hundreds of homeowners with fliers offering to help them stop the foreclosure process on their homes, authorities said.
Homeowners were allegedly falsely told that their mortgages would be renegotiated, that monthly payments would be reduced, and that any delinquent loan amounts would be transferred to the renegotiated principal in exchange for an upfront fee ranging from $1,500 to $5,000, according to the Attorney General's Office.
Authorities warned that it is unlawful for companies to promise to help consumers in foreclosure collect any money upfront, before they have done what was promised.
The state Attorney General's Office advised that homeowners who are behind in their mortgage payments or whose homes are already in foreclosure can seek services at little or no cost.
For information about the serivces, call -888-995-46473 or see www.yourhome.ca.gov or www.995hope.org.
Saturday, November 01, 2008
Read this Sign... GT to Increase Visual Distraction ?
Paw,
Steve berry says put up more signs to tell people what they should be doing – Is he kidding.
He says it was the signs that said “Don’t Even Think About Speeding” stopped folks from speeding. It wasn’t the signs; it was the police and all the tickets they were giving out. Without the police, does he really think people would pay attention? They are in a hurry to get to work, school, shopping, meeting at the Food Connection, etc. etc.
“Don’t Even Think About It” sounds more like the ol school marm, Maryetta Ferre, still telling people what they can and can’t do. That is what the people were really saying.
Steve Berry is out of touch. He should have the job of fixing all the walls that have been graffiti on. I know the Mr. Hilkey and Mr. Miller were against more signage in GT. I think it just litters and distracts.
Grand Terrace bringing back old-fashioned billboards
By Stephen Wall, Staff Writer
Article Launched: 10/30/2008 06:25:32 PM PDT
GRAND TERRACE - The city is going back in time in hopes of generating a brighter economic future.
City officials are developing a sign campaign reminiscent of the Burma-Shave billboards that were prevalent in much of the United States from 1925 to 1963.
Burma-Shave was a brushless shaving cream that was promoted through catchy, humorous rhyming poems posted on small billboards along the edge of highways. The signs were spaced apart so they could be read consecutively by passing motorists. The last sign was almost always the name of the product.
Acting City Manager Steve Berry is working on a similar concept with his staff in an effort to promote local businesses in the midst of challenging economic times.
"It's a cute way to get across the idea that for a small community to continue to offer quality levels of service, people need to support their local businesses," Berry said.
Berry said the wording on the signs is still being worked on. The slogans could be changed every few months to constantly provide a "clever" marketing message, he said.
The cost of the campaign is minimal - "$300 or $400 at the most," Berry said.
The signs could be placed on a hillside area on Barton Road near the Colton border. Motorists entering the city from Colton would see the signs as they come around the hill approaching
Preston Street . The signs could be put 20 or 30 yards apart for maximum visual effect, he said.
A few years ago, officials installed "Don't Even Think About Speeding in Grand Terrace" signs at city entrances.
Even though the signs were taken down recently, the campaign was successful in reducing speeding, officials said.
"It became entrenched in people's minds. We're trying to have the same effect with the new signs," Berry said.
Bobbie Forbes, a Grand Terrace resident who sells real estate, said the ad campaign would be "money well-spent."
"They need to remind the residents that it's important to shop in our community," Forbes said. "As more businesses come into Grand Terrace, it will financially benefit Grand Terrace and hopefully get the community to spend more money here."
stephen.wall@inlandnewspapers.com
(909) 386-3916
Steve berry says put up more signs to tell people what they should be doing – Is he kidding.
He says it was the signs that said “Don’t Even Think About Speeding” stopped folks from speeding. It wasn’t the signs; it was the police and all the tickets they were giving out. Without the police, does he really think people would pay attention? They are in a hurry to get to work, school, shopping, meeting at the Food Connection, etc. etc.
“Don’t Even Think About It” sounds more like the ol school marm, Maryetta Ferre, still telling people what they can and can’t do. That is what the people were really saying.
Steve Berry is out of touch. He should have the job of fixing all the walls that have been graffiti on. I know the Mr. Hilkey and Mr. Miller were against more signage in GT. I think it just litters and distracts.
Grand Terrace bringing back old-fashioned billboards
By Stephen Wall, Staff Writer
Article Launched: 10/30/2008 06:25:32 PM PDT
GRAND TERRACE - The city is going back in time in hopes of generating a brighter economic future.
City officials are developing a sign campaign reminiscent of the Burma-Shave billboards that were prevalent in much of the United States from 1925 to 1963.
Burma-Shave was a brushless shaving cream that was promoted through catchy, humorous rhyming poems posted on small billboards along the edge of highways. The signs were spaced apart so they could be read consecutively by passing motorists. The last sign was almost always the name of the product.
Acting City Manager Steve Berry is working on a similar concept with his staff in an effort to promote local businesses in the midst of challenging economic times.
"It's a cute way to get across the idea that for a small community to continue to offer quality levels of service, people need to support their local businesses," Berry said.
Berry said the wording on the signs is still being worked on. The slogans could be changed every few months to constantly provide a "clever" marketing message, he said.
The cost of the campaign is minimal - "$300 or $400 at the most," Berry said.
The signs could be placed on a hillside area on Barton Road near the Colton border. Motorists entering the city from Colton would see the signs as they come around the hill approaching
Preston Street . The signs could be put 20 or 30 yards apart for maximum visual effect, he said.
A few years ago, officials installed "Don't Even Think About Speeding in Grand Terrace" signs at city entrances.
Even though the signs were taken down recently, the campaign was successful in reducing speeding, officials said.
"It became entrenched in people's minds. We're trying to have the same effect with the new signs," Berry said.
Bobbie Forbes, a Grand Terrace resident who sells real estate, said the ad campaign would be "money well-spent."
"They need to remind the residents that it's important to shop in our community," Forbes said. "As more businesses come into Grand Terrace, it will financially benefit Grand Terrace and hopefully get the community to spend more money here."
stephen.wall@inlandnewspapers.com
(909) 386-3916
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