Paawww...
The plan for development of the new Fresh and Easy shopping center has not really been put forth to the public yet.
The G.T. planning commission got to take a look at it briefly a few weeks ago and they pretty well had same impression as I got out of it.
Too many big buildings and not enough parking spaces.
As can be read in the remuneration on the right edge, they are DEFICIENT in parking spaces, and the number they cited includes using Handicapped spaces. The whole lot is not situated very well for daytime truck deliveries also. Thus expect an instant traffic jamb upon entering the lot. Otherwise park on the street as it may be only way to stop nearby to it.
I remember one Planning Commissioner mentioned that no adjustments have been shown regarding slopes or retaining walls. Which will be required. Unless the developer wants to build in a hole. When folks find that they cannot park, they will cease driving into that lot and use the one twice as big across the street.
Trust me, it will all work out in the end.
Dear Reader:
Posted below are the drawings available for the design and parking and road use for that development. You are correct these are not available on the City's Web Page... and should be. These drawings are on a page requesting occupants looking for a space to lease or rent.
Now This is a Privately Owned and Funded Development. The Owners and Business is or should not be impaired to do what they want by the City of Grand Terrace. Except for one area of concern with the intended Use or Occupancy I don't give a fudge about how many parking places there are or aren't. With the way things are going we may need to go back to walking to the store... (In my new location our store actually delivers to the door, this service saves me time and money.)
The City will have problem in forcing parking requirements because it has already shown that when it is and RDA Project the Zoning and Code regarding to Parking Requirements and Traffic Concerns don't amount to a hill of beans. If the city were to take the posture of not approving the Development Plan they would be guilty of showing obvious favoritism to their RDA/Developers, which could end up being cause for a Trade Violation and Increased Court Costs.
Note: Dimetri's was not allowed a Drive Thru for many years. Other Drive Thru's were rejected for years. Until Jacobson/Miguels and Schwab wanted a Drive Thru did the Council and Planning Dept allow Dimitri's to put in a Drive Thru..
The only problem that the Property Owner could run into is that there is a Freeze on getting more ABC Licenses to sell Beer/Wine or Alcohol. With the Fire at the Liquor Store near Dimitri's there may be One License in Town Available... mmmm a motive? But, any development restaurant, gas station, Drug Store, or Grocery Store will face a problem in getting a ABC License. You have reached the saturation point for a community of GT Size and Population.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
More on Measure G...
Paw,
The school District is asking for $225 million in bonds. The truth is it will take $450 million of our tax dollars to pay it back. I’m voting NO. We already paid for our high school in GT and they need to deliver.
Measure G
Schools, students need investment
Article Launched: 10/27/2008 07:54:42 PM PDT
Measure G will give Colton-area school kids much-needed improvements in classrooms.
Voters in the Colton Joint Unified School District are again being asked to increase their property taxes - no small request given our nation's economic woes.
The school District is asking for $225 million in bonds. The truth is it will take $450 million of our tax dollars to pay it back. I’m voting NO. We already paid for our high school in GT and they need to deliver.
Measure G
Schools, students need investment
Article Launched: 10/27/2008 07:54:42 PM PDT
Measure G will give Colton-area school kids much-needed improvements in classrooms.
Voters in the Colton Joint Unified School District are again being asked to increase their property taxes - no small request given our nation's economic woes.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
From the Email InBox: Measure G
Dear Paw,
I am deeply concerned with the financial state of our City, School Board and State(s). It has been very difficult to trust anyone because they don’t do what they say they are going to do. More than that, they don’t communicate with the citizens who are making it all possible.
In my house alone, we have had to tighten our belts to the basics. We have lost money in the stock market, two-thirds of our 401k is now gone, the future doesn’t look any better. The one thing that saves us is the fact that we don’t have much debt.
Our nation has become slaves to the banking industry and so has our City because the Redevelopment Agency is in debt. And who has to pay it all back? The homeowners do. This is what our officials won’t tell you.
How much can the tax payer take financially? Now the school board wants more money. There is no GUARANTEE the GT High School Will Be BUILT...
Economic climate heightens debate over proposed school bond in Colton
08:27 AM PDT on Friday, October 24, 2008
By CINDY MARTINEZ RHODESThe Press-Enterprise
In this economic climate, Measure G is about as hot an issue as any local race this November.
Proponents say the $225 million school bond measure will ease crowding, modernize woefully outdated schools and improve education overall in the Colton Joint Unified School District .
If passed, it would tax property owners in the district approximately $40 per $100,000 of assessed property value. A home assessed at $300,000 would be taxed an additional $120 a year.
Opponents say that $120 could be better spent on food, medication or other necessities that are becoming luxuries during the current economic downturn.
"It's not that we don't want it, but we can't afford it," Bloomington business owner and parent Linda Gonzalez said. "I don't trust the school board anymore. It's just not the right timing."
Trustee Mel Albiso said if the district doesn't start looking ahead and investing in children now, it will never be able to keep pace with the demands of education and technology.
Students work in the chemistry lab at Colton High on Thursday. Those favoring Measure G say the measure would ease crowding, modernize outdated schools and improve education overall in the Colton school district.
"If you don't build schools, you're going to build prisons," Albiso said in a matter-of-fact tone. "How much is a child worth? If it's my last penny, I'd spend it on my grandchildren. That's what it comes to."
Board members acknowledge that there is lingering anger among district residents, especially in Grand Terrace, over Measure B -- a $102 million bond passed in 2001 and earmarked to build a new high school.
Colton High junior Nathalia Dominguez works on a chemistry experiment for a Halloween program.
Alice Grundman, the district's director of facilities, said the high school in Grand Terrace is scheduled to break ground by April 2009.
Measure G funds also would be used to build state-of-the-art, two-story math and science buildings at Colton and Bloomington high schools, at a price of about $12 million apiece.
"With Measure G, the school will also be able to get matching funds from the state to modernize and remodel all our schools," Grundman said. "By relieving some of the overcrowding, we're in a better position to prepare kids to graduate, go on to college and prepare them to work."
The biggest hurdle Measure G faces Nov. 4 is the mistrust some people have of the district and its financial management.
"They don't build anything. They just put portables up," said Grand Terrace resident Dan Glozer. "I don't think they've proven to us they've used their money wisely."
Albiso says that there are many new people on the school board and they have their priorities in order.
"The prudent deal right now is to invest in our infrastructure," Albiso said.
"Why can't we have the types of schools we can be proud of?"
Measure G
The Colton Joint Unified School District bond measure would provide money to complete a third high school and make other improvements.
Amount: $225 million
Purpose: Classroom repair, school construction and education improvement
Cost: $40 a year per $100,000 of assessed property value
Approval: 55 percent of voter approval required
Information: www.colton.k12.ca.us
I am deeply concerned with the financial state of our City, School Board and State(s). It has been very difficult to trust anyone because they don’t do what they say they are going to do. More than that, they don’t communicate with the citizens who are making it all possible.
In my house alone, we have had to tighten our belts to the basics. We have lost money in the stock market, two-thirds of our 401k is now gone, the future doesn’t look any better. The one thing that saves us is the fact that we don’t have much debt.
Our nation has become slaves to the banking industry and so has our City because the Redevelopment Agency is in debt. And who has to pay it all back? The homeowners do. This is what our officials won’t tell you.
How much can the tax payer take financially? Now the school board wants more money. There is no GUARANTEE the GT High School Will Be BUILT...
Economic climate heightens debate over proposed school bond in Colton
08:27 AM PDT on Friday, October 24, 2008
By CINDY MARTINEZ RHODESThe Press-Enterprise
In this economic climate, Measure G is about as hot an issue as any local race this November.
Proponents say the $225 million school bond measure will ease crowding, modernize woefully outdated schools and improve education overall in the Colton Joint Unified School District .
If passed, it would tax property owners in the district approximately $40 per $100,000 of assessed property value. A home assessed at $300,000 would be taxed an additional $120 a year.
Opponents say that $120 could be better spent on food, medication or other necessities that are becoming luxuries during the current economic downturn.
"It's not that we don't want it, but we can't afford it," Bloomington business owner and parent Linda Gonzalez said. "I don't trust the school board anymore. It's just not the right timing."
Trustee Mel Albiso said if the district doesn't start looking ahead and investing in children now, it will never be able to keep pace with the demands of education and technology.
Students work in the chemistry lab at Colton High on Thursday. Those favoring Measure G say the measure would ease crowding, modernize outdated schools and improve education overall in the Colton school district.
"If you don't build schools, you're going to build prisons," Albiso said in a matter-of-fact tone. "How much is a child worth? If it's my last penny, I'd spend it on my grandchildren. That's what it comes to."
Board members acknowledge that there is lingering anger among district residents, especially in Grand Terrace, over Measure B -- a $102 million bond passed in 2001 and earmarked to build a new high school.
Colton High junior Nathalia Dominguez works on a chemistry experiment for a Halloween program.
Alice Grundman, the district's director of facilities, said the high school in Grand Terrace is scheduled to break ground by April 2009.
Measure G funds also would be used to build state-of-the-art, two-story math and science buildings at Colton and Bloomington high schools, at a price of about $12 million apiece.
"With Measure G, the school will also be able to get matching funds from the state to modernize and remodel all our schools," Grundman said. "By relieving some of the overcrowding, we're in a better position to prepare kids to graduate, go on to college and prepare them to work."
The biggest hurdle Measure G faces Nov. 4 is the mistrust some people have of the district and its financial management.
"They don't build anything. They just put portables up," said Grand Terrace resident Dan Glozer. "I don't think they've proven to us they've used their money wisely."
Albiso says that there are many new people on the school board and they have their priorities in order.
"The prudent deal right now is to invest in our infrastructure," Albiso said.
"Why can't we have the types of schools we can be proud of?"
Measure G
The Colton Joint Unified School District bond measure would provide money to complete a third high school and make other improvements.
Amount: $225 million
Purpose: Classroom repair, school construction and education improvement
Cost: $40 a year per $100,000 of assessed property value
Approval: 55 percent of voter approval required
Information: www.colton.k12.ca.us
Citizens were not informed of the Forum:
PAWW... where was the Pre-Forum Press or Invites or Notice? I as a citizen would have attended the forum. The people who don't know the candidates should be invited to the event....... that is the function of the PRESS to keep the PUBLIC INFORMED..... A forum where only invited guests attend serves no purpose to INFORM the Public... OUR NEWS PAPERS ARE FAILING US...
Six Grand Terrace council candidates express views
Stephen Wall, Staff Writer
Article Launched: 10/22/2008 08:56:36 PM PDT
GRAND TERRACE - While many political campaigns have turned nasty and negative this year, the race here has been clean and civil.
Six candidates are competing for three seats in the Nov. 4 City Council election.
Two incumbents, Councilman Jim Miller and Councilwoman Lee Ann Garcia, are hoping to fend off challenges from Robert Mendez, Dontay Nunn, Walt Stanckiewitz and Doug Wilson. Councilman Dan Buchanan is not seeking re-election, ensuring there will be at least one new face on the five-member council.
On Tuesday, the candidates exchanged views on crime, economic development and other issues at a forum sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce.
Miller, a real property manager for San Bernardino County who is seeking a second term, said he would ensure that public funds aren't wasted on poorly planned projects.
"My vision is to make sure we have controlled growth that falls within our budgetary constraints," said Miller, 60.
He said the city should seek state and federal dollars to bring a larger library to the community.
Miller has shown an independence and willingness to bring problems to the attention of the other Council Members. Even so he has been fairly ineffective to prevent poorly planned projects. His desire to have the City's Redevelopment Agency in the Business of Controlling the Economic Future of the City is not reflective of having a Free Economy, some may say it is outside the rights of Individuals and Businesses Rights to their own determination of what is best for them. In spite of this Miller get's my vote for now.
Garcia, who has served on the council since 1996, said she would continue the city's history of being fiscally conservative.
"Unless we need it, we don't spend money on it," said Garcia, a 46-year-old owner of a marketing and consulting firm. "This year, we're being even more cautious."
Garcia said her priorities include public safety, quality development and infrastructure improvements.
Not spending money we don't need to spend. That is a NEW IDEA. Garcia is happy to have the City Pay to be Members of a Political Action Organization that has the intent on supporting Developers ability to use Emanate Domain to Force the Redevelopment of Private Property for Profits of Developers. She supports paying for trips to Washington, and other places to Lobby for Pork. She takes money from outside of GT to support her campaign. She often appears to be ill informed of the issues on the Council's Agenda, and even when she expresses a counter opinon she will vote however Tom Schwab desires. I do not Vote for Garcia. Except: She voted no on Fireworks.
Stanckiewitz, the owner of La Pasta Italia restaurant, said he would offer a unique perspective as a small business owner.
"We don't make promises on things we may not be able to deliver," said Stanckiewitz, 58. "When the economy gets better, we can start to take a look at our wish list."
While he said the city needs another sit-down restaurant, Stanckiewitz frowned on home-improvement warehouses and mega-retailers.
Stanckiewitz in other public and published statements was aggressively Pro Development... even suggested support for the use of Eminent Domain against the last "Hold Out Land Owner". I can not support anyone who will support the use of Eminent Domain for Private Development or RDA Development that is just dressed up Private Development. I can't vote for Stanchiewitz... I do eat his food on the other hand...
Wilson, who has served for 17 years on the city's Planning Commission, said he is the most qualified to deal with land use and development challenges.
"I want to improve the vitality of our downtown and increase overall property values," said Wilson, a 55-year-old business consultant. "The city runs on the revenue of businesses. We need to maximum our earning potential by encouraging quality self-sustaining development that doesn't rely on the pocket book of the taxpayer."
I am worried about a statement... I want to improve the vitality of downtown... This is an over reach of the authority of Government in a Free Market and where People and thus Businesses have PROPERTY RIGHTS. It is not for the City to determine Development,... A city can have proper roads, communication systems, water and make things easier for business but.... the expressed ego and suggested Over Reach of Governmental Authority or Involvement has me worried about Mr. Wilson. He has served well, and he has shown respect to land owners and developers who are not in collusion with the City Manager's Redevelopment Agency. So,,, I support him with reluctance...
Mendez, a San Bernardino County fire prevention specialist, said the city should try to attract a hotel and a grocery store such as Trader Joe's.
"We need to get more businesses into the community to bring in more revenue," said Mendez, 56. "We need to keep our revenue here instead of it going out to other cities."
Mendez also supports bringing a paramedic program to the city.
Mr Mendez has ties to folks on the Council and within City Government which I do not trust or respect. I do not think he has demonstrated anything that would suggest he would make a well informed independent decision... More More More is not sufficient. I do not support Mr. Mendez.
Nunn, 21, said he has limited knowledge about financial issues. He said he is running for office to help "the youth of Grand Terrace" have a safe place to hang out after school.
"We need a skateboard park or community center for these kids," said Nunn, who provides in-home care for the elderly. "If we ignore these kids too much longer, they're going to start gangs and create violence."\
Mr. Nunn... I support. Refreshing... Honest, about the limits of knowledge shows an awareness and the first step in the learning process. His focus on Youth is NEEDED on the Council. We have sufficient representation of the Real estate and Development Interests on the Council. I would encourage him to support a Youth Center / Business for Youth Center where our young folks start up their own small businesses.
Six Grand Terrace council candidates express views
Stephen Wall, Staff Writer
Article Launched: 10/22/2008 08:56:36 PM PDT
GRAND TERRACE - While many political campaigns have turned nasty and negative this year, the race here has been clean and civil.
Six candidates are competing for three seats in the Nov. 4 City Council election.
Two incumbents, Councilman Jim Miller and Councilwoman Lee Ann Garcia, are hoping to fend off challenges from Robert Mendez, Dontay Nunn, Walt Stanckiewitz and Doug Wilson. Councilman Dan Buchanan is not seeking re-election, ensuring there will be at least one new face on the five-member council.
On Tuesday, the candidates exchanged views on crime, economic development and other issues at a forum sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce.
Miller, a real property manager for San Bernardino County who is seeking a second term, said he would ensure that public funds aren't wasted on poorly planned projects.
"My vision is to make sure we have controlled growth that falls within our budgetary constraints," said Miller, 60.
He said the city should seek state and federal dollars to bring a larger library to the community.
Miller has shown an independence and willingness to bring problems to the attention of the other Council Members. Even so he has been fairly ineffective to prevent poorly planned projects. His desire to have the City's Redevelopment Agency in the Business of Controlling the Economic Future of the City is not reflective of having a Free Economy, some may say it is outside the rights of Individuals and Businesses Rights to their own determination of what is best for them. In spite of this Miller get's my vote for now.
Garcia, who has served on the council since 1996, said she would continue the city's history of being fiscally conservative.
"Unless we need it, we don't spend money on it," said Garcia, a 46-year-old owner of a marketing and consulting firm. "This year, we're being even more cautious."
Garcia said her priorities include public safety, quality development and infrastructure improvements.
Not spending money we don't need to spend. That is a NEW IDEA. Garcia is happy to have the City Pay to be Members of a Political Action Organization that has the intent on supporting Developers ability to use Emanate Domain to Force the Redevelopment of Private Property for Profits of Developers. She supports paying for trips to Washington, and other places to Lobby for Pork. She takes money from outside of GT to support her campaign. She often appears to be ill informed of the issues on the Council's Agenda, and even when she expresses a counter opinon she will vote however Tom Schwab desires. I do not Vote for Garcia. Except: She voted no on Fireworks.
Stanckiewitz, the owner of La Pasta Italia restaurant, said he would offer a unique perspective as a small business owner.
"We don't make promises on things we may not be able to deliver," said Stanckiewitz, 58. "When the economy gets better, we can start to take a look at our wish list."
While he said the city needs another sit-down restaurant, Stanckiewitz frowned on home-improvement warehouses and mega-retailers.
Stanckiewitz in other public and published statements was aggressively Pro Development... even suggested support for the use of Eminent Domain against the last "Hold Out Land Owner". I can not support anyone who will support the use of Eminent Domain for Private Development or RDA Development that is just dressed up Private Development. I can't vote for Stanchiewitz... I do eat his food on the other hand...
Wilson, who has served for 17 years on the city's Planning Commission, said he is the most qualified to deal with land use and development challenges.
"I want to improve the vitality of our downtown and increase overall property values," said Wilson, a 55-year-old business consultant. "The city runs on the revenue of businesses. We need to maximum our earning potential by encouraging quality self-sustaining development that doesn't rely on the pocket book of the taxpayer."
I am worried about a statement... I want to improve the vitality of downtown... This is an over reach of the authority of Government in a Free Market and where People and thus Businesses have PROPERTY RIGHTS. It is not for the City to determine Development,... A city can have proper roads, communication systems, water and make things easier for business but.... the expressed ego and suggested Over Reach of Governmental Authority or Involvement has me worried about Mr. Wilson. He has served well, and he has shown respect to land owners and developers who are not in collusion with the City Manager's Redevelopment Agency. So,,, I support him with reluctance...
Mendez, a San Bernardino County fire prevention specialist, said the city should try to attract a hotel and a grocery store such as Trader Joe's.
"We need to get more businesses into the community to bring in more revenue," said Mendez, 56. "We need to keep our revenue here instead of it going out to other cities."
Mendez also supports bringing a paramedic program to the city.
Mr Mendez has ties to folks on the Council and within City Government which I do not trust or respect. I do not think he has demonstrated anything that would suggest he would make a well informed independent decision... More More More is not sufficient. I do not support Mr. Mendez.
Nunn, 21, said he has limited knowledge about financial issues. He said he is running for office to help "the youth of Grand Terrace" have a safe place to hang out after school.
"We need a skateboard park or community center for these kids," said Nunn, who provides in-home care for the elderly. "If we ignore these kids too much longer, they're going to start gangs and create violence."\
Mr. Nunn... I support. Refreshing... Honest, about the limits of knowledge shows an awareness and the first step in the learning process. His focus on Youth is NEEDED on the Council. We have sufficient representation of the Real estate and Development Interests on the Council. I would encourage him to support a Youth Center / Business for Youth Center where our young folks start up their own small businesses.
GT Hires Planning Director from Flawed Development
Morning:
Thought you might be interested in this article.
GT's new RDA (Joyce Powers) is in it.
Reader's ALERT:
The person hired by the City of Grand Terrace was apart of this Development Burden on the Citizens of Riverside.
We have a pattern of getting folks with a Resume that is more of a person shoved out of a job and recommended to the City of Grand Terrace to get them out of their prior employment. This is an old Human Resource trick. Don't fire a person, or lay them off, that will cost you money. Get them a job in some where else if they don't work well in your organization.
Steve Berry was such a hire, and now we look forward to the same thing in our Planning Director.
Will we ever learn....?
Riverside officials feeling buyer's remorse about downtown office building deal
10:00 PM PDT on Friday, October 24, 2008
By DAVID DANELSKI
The Press-Enterprise
Some former and current Riverside officials regret parts of the deal they made with a developer who is building a 10-story office tower downtown.
Because they thought the developer would be bringing new business to the city center, Riverside officials reduced the parking requirement by one-fourth and agreed to sell more than 400 spaces in a city parking structure to the developer at a $3 million discount.
Now, as Riverside County will be buying the Regency Tower at Orange and 10th streets for the district attorney's office, the $3 million discount becomes, in essence, a subsidy for the county. And having a public agency in the building means no new major businesses will move in.
In addition, the large executive offices the developer said justified the reduced parking requirement will become more ordinary office space for hundreds of county employees.
"In hindsight, it probably should have said in the ... (development agreement) that it shouldn't be sold to a public agency," City Councilman Frank Schiavone said this week.
Former council member Dom Betro said he had hoped that 10 stories of prime "Class A" office space would have given downtown a big economic boost by attracting a flock of new professionals supporting restaurants, stores and other city initiatives, such as a renovated Fox Theatre.
But now the 10-story building will shift government employees already downtown and put on the market lower-quality office spaces that the district attorney will vacate, Betro said.
Strategy Change
Schiavone and Councilman Mike Gardner said they will never let it happen again.
A more recent development agreement, for a proposed office project on Olivewood Avenue a couple of blocks south of 14th Street, includes a clause prohibiting the developer from selling the property to a government agency.
And future deals intended to entice private investment will include protections to keep them that way, the councilmen said.
Last year, city officials and Regency Tower developer Moshe Silagi worked out a deal for him to use a city parking garage across the street from the office tower.
The $17.3 million parking garage was completed in 2005 and now houses city utility offices on the ground floor and has five stories of parking for a total of 540 spaces.
In January 2007, the city estimated it cost about $7 million to construct the 400 parking spaces they intended to provide to Silagi.
The City Council approved a deal for Silagi to acquire weekday use of the 400 spaces for $4 million.
The city redevelopment agency will pay the $3 million difference. The agency typically uses its fund to attract or bolster business in designated areas of the city, including downtown.
Interim Assistant City Manager Belinda Graham said the $4 million was based on the market value of renting spaces and added that the public still will have access at night and on weekends.
Graham and Joyce Powers, the city's former downtown development manager, had negotiated the development agreement with Silagi. A Laguna Hills attorney hired by the city, David Mann, reviewed the agreement.
'Significant Subsidy'
Schiavone, a building contractor, said the deal was a significant subsidy because it would have cost Silagi much more to build the parking spaces himself.
Silagi got another parking break from the city in June 2007 when the city scaled back its parking requirement for his project.
City downtown design standards require four parking slots per 1,000 square feet of office space, meaning that the Silagi needed more than 1,000 parking spaces for his 250,000-plus- square-foot building.
But city officials required only 730 because they expected spacious executive suites in the Regency Tower .
"The higher rents required for this new building will exclude ... uses that typically have much higher employee densities and consequently higher parking needs," said a city report.
Government buildings typically are more crowded, Schiavone said.
"The county is really going to have a problem," he said. "It is under-parked."
Schiavone said he hopes the county will make up the parking deficiency by purchasing the parking garage at a price that will allow the city to build a replacement to meet the needs of the public.
The city deal with Silagi would leave 140 spaces for public parking in the structure, but District Attorney Rod Pacheco made it clear last year that he wants a secure parking structure for only his employees and other county workers, according to county records.
Riverside County Supervisor John Tavaglione said the county is always in the market for more parking spaces and will consider buying the city garage.
"But the county board isn't inclined to make the city whole on what Frank (Schiavone) perceives to be a bad deal," Tavaglione said.
He said the county probably helped downtown Riverside by acquiring the building. Because of the bad economy, the building might otherwise have remained vacant for years, Tavaglione said.
Staff writer Doug Haberman contributed to this report.
Reach David Danelski at 951-368-9471 or ddanelski@PE.com
Thought you might be interested in this article.
GT's new RDA (Joyce Powers) is in it.
Reader's ALERT:
The person hired by the City of Grand Terrace was apart of this Development Burden on the Citizens of Riverside.
We have a pattern of getting folks with a Resume that is more of a person shoved out of a job and recommended to the City of Grand Terrace to get them out of their prior employment. This is an old Human Resource trick. Don't fire a person, or lay them off, that will cost you money. Get them a job in some where else if they don't work well in your organization.
Steve Berry was such a hire, and now we look forward to the same thing in our Planning Director.
Will we ever learn....?
Riverside officials feeling buyer's remorse about downtown office building deal
10:00 PM PDT on Friday, October 24, 2008
By DAVID DANELSKI
The Press-Enterprise
Some former and current Riverside officials regret parts of the deal they made with a developer who is building a 10-story office tower downtown.
Because they thought the developer would be bringing new business to the city center, Riverside officials reduced the parking requirement by one-fourth and agreed to sell more than 400 spaces in a city parking structure to the developer at a $3 million discount.
Now, as Riverside County will be buying the Regency Tower at Orange and 10th streets for the district attorney's office, the $3 million discount becomes, in essence, a subsidy for the county. And having a public agency in the building means no new major businesses will move in.
In addition, the large executive offices the developer said justified the reduced parking requirement will become more ordinary office space for hundreds of county employees.
"In hindsight, it probably should have said in the ... (development agreement) that it shouldn't be sold to a public agency," City Councilman Frank Schiavone said this week.
Former council member Dom Betro said he had hoped that 10 stories of prime "Class A" office space would have given downtown a big economic boost by attracting a flock of new professionals supporting restaurants, stores and other city initiatives, such as a renovated Fox Theatre.
But now the 10-story building will shift government employees already downtown and put on the market lower-quality office spaces that the district attorney will vacate, Betro said.
Strategy Change
Schiavone and Councilman Mike Gardner said they will never let it happen again.
A more recent development agreement, for a proposed office project on Olivewood Avenue a couple of blocks south of 14th Street, includes a clause prohibiting the developer from selling the property to a government agency.
And future deals intended to entice private investment will include protections to keep them that way, the councilmen said.
Last year, city officials and Regency Tower developer Moshe Silagi worked out a deal for him to use a city parking garage across the street from the office tower.
The $17.3 million parking garage was completed in 2005 and now houses city utility offices on the ground floor and has five stories of parking for a total of 540 spaces.
In January 2007, the city estimated it cost about $7 million to construct the 400 parking spaces they intended to provide to Silagi.
The City Council approved a deal for Silagi to acquire weekday use of the 400 spaces for $4 million.
The city redevelopment agency will pay the $3 million difference. The agency typically uses its fund to attract or bolster business in designated areas of the city, including downtown.
Interim Assistant City Manager Belinda Graham said the $4 million was based on the market value of renting spaces and added that the public still will have access at night and on weekends.
Graham and Joyce Powers, the city's former downtown development manager, had negotiated the development agreement with Silagi. A Laguna Hills attorney hired by the city, David Mann, reviewed the agreement.
'Significant Subsidy'
Schiavone, a building contractor, said the deal was a significant subsidy because it would have cost Silagi much more to build the parking spaces himself.
Silagi got another parking break from the city in June 2007 when the city scaled back its parking requirement for his project.
City downtown design standards require four parking slots per 1,000 square feet of office space, meaning that the Silagi needed more than 1,000 parking spaces for his 250,000-plus- square-foot building.
But city officials required only 730 because they expected spacious executive suites in the Regency Tower .
"The higher rents required for this new building will exclude ... uses that typically have much higher employee densities and consequently higher parking needs," said a city report.
Government buildings typically are more crowded, Schiavone said.
"The county is really going to have a problem," he said. "It is under-parked."
Schiavone said he hopes the county will make up the parking deficiency by purchasing the parking garage at a price that will allow the city to build a replacement to meet the needs of the public.
The city deal with Silagi would leave 140 spaces for public parking in the structure, but District Attorney Rod Pacheco made it clear last year that he wants a secure parking structure for only his employees and other county workers, according to county records.
Riverside County Supervisor John Tavaglione said the county is always in the market for more parking spaces and will consider buying the city garage.
"But the county board isn't inclined to make the city whole on what Frank (Schiavone) perceives to be a bad deal," Tavaglione said.
He said the county probably helped downtown Riverside by acquiring the building. Because of the bad economy, the building might otherwise have remained vacant for years, Tavaglione said.
Staff writer Doug Haberman contributed to this report.
Reach David Danelski at 951-368-9471 or ddanelski@PE.com
Friday, October 24, 2008
Gala in the GT City News?
GrandPa here is a question for you:...
In this weeks GT City News there was a long report about the GT Gala. The Mayor praised the town of GT enjoying a "conservative" life. Then the article went on to report about the lavish accommodations, entertainment and food provided to the attendees. It also identified the Acting City Manager Steve Berry as being the person who Hosted, and Organized the event.
Well, here is my question. Where is my invitation to attend the Gala? How much time of a City Employee is being spent on Party Planning for a Few Elite People in GT. Is this being conservative? Is wanting more revenue from Sales Tax on Alcohol Sales "conservative"? Is promoting a consumption economy and not a production economy conservative? Is ending all farming and green spaces other than Restricted use Pocket Parks and Parks, "conservative"? Is having 14 MILLION or MORE in Redevelopment Agency Debt Bonds... "conservative"...
Well, where is my chocolate piano, on WALL STREET or HONEY HILLS?
A Community Spagetti Dinner.... that was the conservative way of having a GT Gala... But, leaving town to host a party for a few of the "select" is not what our City Council or Mayor or City should be doing.
It is time to end these peoples grip on the Community.... It is time for the folks not at the Gala to be put on the City Council.
In this weeks GT City News there was a long report about the GT Gala. The Mayor praised the town of GT enjoying a "conservative" life. Then the article went on to report about the lavish accommodations, entertainment and food provided to the attendees. It also identified the Acting City Manager Steve Berry as being the person who Hosted, and Organized the event.
Well, here is my question. Where is my invitation to attend the Gala? How much time of a City Employee is being spent on Party Planning for a Few Elite People in GT. Is this being conservative? Is wanting more revenue from Sales Tax on Alcohol Sales "conservative"? Is promoting a consumption economy and not a production economy conservative? Is ending all farming and green spaces other than Restricted use Pocket Parks and Parks, "conservative"? Is having 14 MILLION or MORE in Redevelopment Agency Debt Bonds... "conservative"...
Well, where is my chocolate piano, on WALL STREET or HONEY HILLS?
A Community Spagetti Dinner.... that was the conservative way of having a GT Gala... But, leaving town to host a party for a few of the "select" is not what our City Council or Mayor or City should be doing.
It is time to end these peoples grip on the Community.... It is time for the folks not at the Gala to be put on the City Council.
Measure G: Why Not? From the InBox
Pawww..
In-na mail got a biggie postcard, then got hit last night with a telephone call all regarding Prop. G the bond issue for new property taxes again. This being run via Colton Unified School District. This time even BIGGER dollar value than the previous one.
As I remember, the School Dist. blew more than 60% of the funds received in the past Bond Issue for a High School in G.T. Have we seen that yet? As a matter, I understand that the School District has not closed the deal to purchase the property, but only has a written agreement with Property Owner to lay out dollars as such time as required. But they have near zero dollars now.
In asking questions, the bulk of the Bond issue dollars is aimed at the present City of Colton Schools, and near zero at the "Future" G.T. High school. Gimmie, gimmie, gimmie. I want your dollars, but in return we will alott a few to go to legal expences involved with the future G.T. high school. Which is going to be built next year (2007).
I do not expect an overwealming YES vote by residents of G.T. as most will come via residents of Colton who are in same district and outnumber the G.T. residents. The residents of G.T will then have to pay for improvements (and legal council) to be applied outside of the city limits.
Maybe we should not have been so quick to vote down the separate G.T. school district a few years back. Is very easy to say that the kiddies of G.T. will benefit from the Bond issue, as they often get shipped there every morning. I wonder if there are any Mom's out there who are tired of getting up an extra 1/2 hour earlier each morning just to get the kids to the bus stop each morning? But it is only a couple of bucks tagged on to each property tax bill you see. Not much. Only for a couple decades too.
Paw Writes: (From a non-disclosed location)
Well, I agree the Measure G as Written does not Demand the Funds be spent on GT HS. Thus if I lived in GT or CJUSD I would not support it.
There are other options available for the Parents in Grand Terrace. The 400 to 600 HS Age Students and Parents could be formed into a Charter School and have a SMALL Specilized High School in an Alternative Setting and Curriculum. In GT we have an abundance of Empty Churches during the week days. These buildings could be leased during day hours for the operations of Mini Schools of the Charter School. All Mini School Sites could be linked by computers and all course work could be on the computer. Physical Activity and "Sports" can be modified to fit the facility. Some churches have large parking lots where Marching Band, BasketBall, Volley Ball, Tennis, and other activities can take place. Or a few Wii sets will get the young folks moving. The Churches could also provide yard space for gardening projects or other service related activities. How radical, these schools would be within walking or bike riding distance.
In-na mail got a biggie postcard, then got hit last night with a telephone call all regarding Prop. G the bond issue for new property taxes again. This being run via Colton Unified School District. This time even BIGGER dollar value than the previous one.
As I remember, the School Dist. blew more than 60% of the funds received in the past Bond Issue for a High School in G.T. Have we seen that yet? As a matter, I understand that the School District has not closed the deal to purchase the property, but only has a written agreement with Property Owner to lay out dollars as such time as required. But they have near zero dollars now.
In asking questions, the bulk of the Bond issue dollars is aimed at the present City of Colton Schools, and near zero at the "Future" G.T. High school. Gimmie, gimmie, gimmie. I want your dollars, but in return we will alott a few to go to legal expences involved with the future G.T. high school. Which is going to be built next year (2007).
I do not expect an overwealming YES vote by residents of G.T. as most will come via residents of Colton who are in same district and outnumber the G.T. residents. The residents of G.T will then have to pay for improvements (and legal council) to be applied outside of the city limits.
Maybe we should not have been so quick to vote down the separate G.T. school district a few years back. Is very easy to say that the kiddies of G.T. will benefit from the Bond issue, as they often get shipped there every morning. I wonder if there are any Mom's out there who are tired of getting up an extra 1/2 hour earlier each morning just to get the kids to the bus stop each morning? But it is only a couple of bucks tagged on to each property tax bill you see. Not much. Only for a couple decades too.
Paw Writes: (From a non-disclosed location)
Well, I agree the Measure G as Written does not Demand the Funds be spent on GT HS. Thus if I lived in GT or CJUSD I would not support it.
There are other options available for the Parents in Grand Terrace. The 400 to 600 HS Age Students and Parents could be formed into a Charter School and have a SMALL Specilized High School in an Alternative Setting and Curriculum. In GT we have an abundance of Empty Churches during the week days. These buildings could be leased during day hours for the operations of Mini Schools of the Charter School. All Mini School Sites could be linked by computers and all course work could be on the computer. Physical Activity and "Sports" can be modified to fit the facility. Some churches have large parking lots where Marching Band, BasketBall, Volley Ball, Tennis, and other activities can take place. Or a few Wii sets will get the young folks moving. The Churches could also provide yard space for gardening projects or other service related activities. How radical, these schools would be within walking or bike riding distance.
Saturday, October 18, 2008
GT Employees Get Pay Raise to Cover City Manager's Work Load..
This is too much!!
Maryetta has bulldogged another raise for Steve Berry and Staff. I thought we needed money. Why aren’t the streets fixed and why aren’t our children safe. Where are the programs for kids so they can participate in athletics, crafts music and theater. Every city has a Recreation Department but ours. Say no thanks to our City Officials
This is the face of misappropriate spending. Guilty of Bad Judgment.
mferre@cityofgrandterrace.org
Maryetta Ferre
Tell your City Council that you don’t like them wasting your money
lgarcia@cityofgrandterrace.org
bcortes@cityofgrandterrace.org
jmiller@cityofgrandterrace.org
dbuchanan@cityofgrandterrace.org
Gramps would like to know:
IF the City is Saving Money as the Mayor Said is Mr. Schwab on Dissability, Income Insurance, or on Full Pay Sick Leave of Absence? Some of these options don't save the City the Cost of the City Manager. SO.... this may be Added Cost to the City.
IF the work can be done without him perhaps... the Possition should be eliminated for ever. It has always been my opinion the City Clerk and the Staff other than the City Manager did the Majority of the real work in the city for many years now.
GT assistant city manager, several others get temporary pay raises
Stephen Wall, Staff Writer
Article Launched: 10/15/2008 08:26:41 PM PDT
GRAND TERRACE - Assistant City Manager Steve Berry has been doing double duty lately.
Besides his regular tasks, Berry has been filling in for City Manager Tom Schwab, who has been on medical leave since June.
Recognizing Berry's added responsibilities, the City Council on Tuesday night gave him a temporary 10-percent raise. Berry, 45, earned $116,448 a year under his previous job title.
The increase, which is retroactive to June 12, brings his annual salary to $128,093.
His pay will go back to the lower amount when Schwab returns to work.
Several other city staff members who took on a heavier workload when their supervisors were absent for prolonged periods also received temporary 10-percent raises, Berry noted.
"We've set a precedent with other employees," Berry said.
Schwab suffered a brain injury and was hospitalized at Loma Linda University Medical Center for two months over the summer.
He is recovering at his Grand Terrace home and goes to speech and physical therapy several times a week.
The 51-year-old Schwab recently said he hopes to be back on the job on a part-time basis in February or March.
Once he regains his stamina, he said he expects to return to full-time status.
Berry was hired as assistant city manager in 2001. He supervises several departments and programs, including community services, maintenance and operations, parks and recreation, code enforcement and information systems.
As acting city manager, Berry works closely with City Council members. He is also the city's administrative head, handling budget-related matters.
"Right now, we're in really good financial shape," Berry said. "We're not hurting like a lot of other cities."
Mayor Maryetta Ferre said the city is saving money by having Berry perform two jobs.
"If we were to hire an interim city manager until Tom returns, that would be a huge expense," Ferre said. "Here we have a man who knows the job, knows the city and can carry on the projects that have already been started."
Maryetta has bulldogged another raise for Steve Berry and Staff. I thought we needed money. Why aren’t the streets fixed and why aren’t our children safe. Where are the programs for kids so they can participate in athletics, crafts music and theater. Every city has a Recreation Department but ours. Say no thanks to our City Officials
This is the face of misappropriate spending. Guilty of Bad Judgment.
mferre@cityofgrandterrace.org
Maryetta Ferre
Tell your City Council that you don’t like them wasting your money
lgarcia@cityofgrandterrace.org
bcortes@cityofgrandterrace.org
jmiller@cityofgrandterrace.org
dbuchanan@cityofgrandterrace.org
Gramps would like to know:
IF the City is Saving Money as the Mayor Said is Mr. Schwab on Dissability, Income Insurance, or on Full Pay Sick Leave of Absence? Some of these options don't save the City the Cost of the City Manager. SO.... this may be Added Cost to the City.
IF the work can be done without him perhaps... the Possition should be eliminated for ever. It has always been my opinion the City Clerk and the Staff other than the City Manager did the Majority of the real work in the city for many years now.
GT assistant city manager, several others get temporary pay raises
Stephen Wall, Staff Writer
Article Launched: 10/15/2008 08:26:41 PM PDT
GRAND TERRACE - Assistant City Manager Steve Berry has been doing double duty lately.
Besides his regular tasks, Berry has been filling in for City Manager Tom Schwab, who has been on medical leave since June.
Recognizing Berry's added responsibilities, the City Council on Tuesday night gave him a temporary 10-percent raise. Berry, 45, earned $116,448 a year under his previous job title.
The increase, which is retroactive to June 12, brings his annual salary to $128,093.
His pay will go back to the lower amount when Schwab returns to work.
Several other city staff members who took on a heavier workload when their supervisors were absent for prolonged periods also received temporary 10-percent raises, Berry noted.
"We've set a precedent with other employees," Berry said.
Schwab suffered a brain injury and was hospitalized at Loma Linda University Medical Center for two months over the summer.
He is recovering at his Grand Terrace home and goes to speech and physical therapy several times a week.
The 51-year-old Schwab recently said he hopes to be back on the job on a part-time basis in February or March.
Once he regains his stamina, he said he expects to return to full-time status.
Berry was hired as assistant city manager in 2001. He supervises several departments and programs, including community services, maintenance and operations, parks and recreation, code enforcement and information systems.
As acting city manager, Berry works closely with City Council members. He is also the city's administrative head, handling budget-related matters.
"Right now, we're in really good financial shape," Berry said. "We're not hurting like a lot of other cities."
Mayor Maryetta Ferre said the city is saving money by having Berry perform two jobs.
"If we were to hire an interim city manager until Tom returns, that would be a huge expense," Ferre said. "Here we have a man who knows the job, knows the city and can carry on the projects that have already been started."
Development and Crime: Thoughts from the InBox
I remember this case. It was the day that I learned nobody was safe in Grand Terrace. My child was small then and I felt deeply for the parents as the helicopter shined its light in GT announcing that a little girl was missing. Neighbors came running telling everyone about a little girl being taken from her bedroom through the window by a man. So many people were out walking around, looking for this man and child. I would like to believe that it was because of these people, he let her go.
This is such a wonderful community and it is my belief that increasing traffic by building malls in Grand Terrace will ruin our small town and the neighborhoods we so dearly love.
Please vote this season. We really need to replace the women on our City Council. Even if it’s one by one.
Jury hears closing arguments in 2001 rape case
10:00 PM PDT on Wednesday, October 15, 2008
By SONJA BJELLAND
The Press-Enterprise
A Rialto man in prison for kidnapping a girl from her home in 2002 is standing trial after a DNA match in the rape of a woman a year earlier.
Dennis Castro's DNA was entered into a statewide database after he pleaded guilty to taking a sleeping 7-year-old girl from her Grand Terrace home about 3:35 a.m. on March 5, 2002. The girl was found unharmed about a block away.
In 2004, Castro's DNA sample was matched to an unsolved rape case in Corona . Castro is charged with burglary, oral copulation with force and rape by force or fear.
A jury will begin deliberating today at the Riverside Hall of Justice whether he is guilty of the incident that his attorney says was mostly consensual.
During closing arguments Wednesday, Deputy District Attorney Laura Ozols said Castro broke into a home in Corona about 5:30 a.m. on Aug. 7, 2001 and raped a woman who had been sleeping. Her baby was in another room and her husband had just left for work, Ozols said
She said the two did not know each other.
Shortly afterward the victim moved her family out of the apartment.
Speaking about the victim, Ozols told the jury, "She shared with you her shame. A shame she's been carrying for years."
The Press-Enterprise does not routinely identify possible victims of sexual crimes, or members of their families.
Ozols said the jurors should consider Castro's previous conviction. He was sentenced in 2004 to 13 years and 8 months in prison, according to San Bernardino County court records.
Defense attorney Addison Steele said his client was high on methamphetamine at the time of the kidnapping and did not intend to sexually assault the child.
About the rape case, Steele told the jury the victim's story was manipulated to cover up her friendship with Castro, and the fact that she invited him into her home after her husband left.
He told the jurors that the victim's story kept changing and did not make sense. Steele said the sex had been consensual, but the victim became upset when her baby started crying and she said no. He said his client did not know that his continuing to have sex with her would be illegal.
Castro took the stand in his defense and during questioning by Ozols was asked what happened.
"So you raped her?" she asked.
"Yes," he replied.
Reach Sonja Bjelland at 951-368-9642 or sbjelland@PE.com
This is such a wonderful community and it is my belief that increasing traffic by building malls in Grand Terrace will ruin our small town and the neighborhoods we so dearly love.
Please vote this season. We really need to replace the women on our City Council. Even if it’s one by one.
Jury hears closing arguments in 2001 rape case
10:00 PM PDT on Wednesday, October 15, 2008
By SONJA BJELLAND
The Press-Enterprise
A Rialto man in prison for kidnapping a girl from her home in 2002 is standing trial after a DNA match in the rape of a woman a year earlier.
Dennis Castro's DNA was entered into a statewide database after he pleaded guilty to taking a sleeping 7-year-old girl from her Grand Terrace home about 3:35 a.m. on March 5, 2002. The girl was found unharmed about a block away.
In 2004, Castro's DNA sample was matched to an unsolved rape case in Corona . Castro is charged with burglary, oral copulation with force and rape by force or fear.
A jury will begin deliberating today at the Riverside Hall of Justice whether he is guilty of the incident that his attorney says was mostly consensual.
During closing arguments Wednesday, Deputy District Attorney Laura Ozols said Castro broke into a home in Corona about 5:30 a.m. on Aug. 7, 2001 and raped a woman who had been sleeping. Her baby was in another room and her husband had just left for work, Ozols said
She said the two did not know each other.
Shortly afterward the victim moved her family out of the apartment.
Speaking about the victim, Ozols told the jury, "She shared with you her shame. A shame she's been carrying for years."
The Press-Enterprise does not routinely identify possible victims of sexual crimes, or members of their families.
Ozols said the jurors should consider Castro's previous conviction. He was sentenced in 2004 to 13 years and 8 months in prison, according to San Bernardino County court records.
Defense attorney Addison Steele said his client was high on methamphetamine at the time of the kidnapping and did not intend to sexually assault the child.
About the rape case, Steele told the jury the victim's story was manipulated to cover up her friendship with Castro, and the fact that she invited him into her home after her husband left.
He told the jurors that the victim's story kept changing and did not make sense. Steele said the sex had been consensual, but the victim became upset when her baby started crying and she said no. He said his client did not know that his continuing to have sex with her would be illegal.
Castro took the stand in his defense and during questioning by Ozols was asked what happened.
"So you raped her?" she asked.
"Yes," he replied.
Reach Sonja Bjelland at 951-368-9642 or sbjelland@PE.com
Thursday, October 09, 2008
A POST on COUNCIL VOTE:
I have been watching our current council and this year I will not vote for LeAnn Garcia. While she is a sweat girl, I find that she cannot comprehend the issues brought before the council to vote on. LeeAnn should be in interior design.
Dontay might be young, but he is right on. But it isn't that the council is out of touch. They just don't care because facilities for young people don't bring in any revenue.
The only thing Maryetta and Steve Berry care about is making money. They have said that the city is already making money. So why do we need a mall of any sort. Grand Terrace is too small for that sort of thing. If they do need to build, why not near the freeway in the ol "Outdoor Center Project".
I know who Walt is and I don't believe he lives in Grand Terrace by full choice. He is a business owner in GT and only moved to GT only after the Fires burned his home. His home was in the mountains.
Bob Mendez is a plant by Steve Berry. Steve Berry, who also doesn't live in GT is supporting this guy. Bob Mendez is completely out of touch.
My votes go to Doug Wilson, for being very knowledgeable and always having time to listen, Jim Miller, for supporting the people of GT and Dontay for supporting the children. (I just hope he has the backbone to stand up to Maryetta.)
08:46 AM PDT on Thursday, October 9, 2008
By JULIE FARREN
The Press-Enterprise
A new high school, centralized town center and fiscal responsibility are among the top concerns of two incumbents and four challengers vying for Grand Terrace City Council seats on Nov. 4.
Incumbents Jim Miller and Lee Ann Garcia are up for re-election. Councilman Dan Buchanan, who was appointed in 2007 to replace Councilwoman Maryetta Ferre, who was elected mayor, is not running.
The four challengers are Doug Wilson, Bob Mendez, Walt Stanckiewitz and Dontay Nunn.
The candidates generally agree on some issues, including development, programs for residents and a new high school.
As far as residential development, Grand Terrace has no more room to grow.
Commercially, however, the city is moving ahead with several projects, including a Town Center and the Grand Crossings retail center.
Garcia said she supports development but said the city must protect its interests and ensure that new projects are compatible with the town.
"We have to be very cautious and careful about what we allow into our city," she said.
Wilson, a Grand Terrace planning commissioner for 17 years, said discussions with the developers of the Town Center and Grand Crossings are crucial to bringing the right projects to the city.
Financially, the city has to plan ahead, Wilson said.
"Economics are going to play a big role," Wilson said.
Stanckiewitz said he would like to see Grand Terrace grow beyond the kinds of businesses it has now, like hair salons and sandwich shops.
"We've got plenty of those stores, but we don't have destination shopping," he said.
Mendez said Grand Terrace needs more restaurants.
"I'd like to see another restaurant," he said. "I'd like to see another mini mall where people could shop, more unique kinds of stores like Trader Joe's."
A new high school also is at the top of the list of the candidates' concerns. The site is on the edge of Grand Terrace, near Highgrove.
"Colton Joint Unified School District is going to fulfill its obligation and provide us a high school," said Miller. "I think it's going that way."
Wilson also is in favor of a high school but said the city isn't directly involved in the planning of it. "The city really doesn't have a whole lot of involvement," he said.
Nunn, the youngest candidate at 22, said he believes city leaders don't understand what the young people in town want.
"I think the Grand Terrace City Council is out of touch and I don't think they really want a high school," he said.
Nunn and Wilson said more programs are needed for children and teens and they would like to see a youth center and skateboard park in the city.
"Let's get these kids somewhere to go," said Nunn. "That's what I need to be there for."
The city gets high marks from the candidates for its fiscal responsibility. Garcia said Grand Terrace historically saves its money and has healthy reserves.
"We try to rely on as little as possible outside funding," she said.
Stanckiewitz said the city is doing a good job but needs to be certain that it hangs onto its reserve fund of more than $5 million.
"They have done very well," he said. "The budget has stayed on track. I know there is a rainy day fund but we have to make sure it doesn't disappear on us."
Miller said increasing sales tax revenue would add more money for programs the city can't afford to cut.
"We don't have a very large budget for being a small city," said Miller.
Mendez, a first-time candidate with a background as a firefighter, said there is one service that Grand Terrace needs.
"My goal is to bring paramedics into the city," he said.
Reach Julie Farren at 909-806-3066 or jfarren@PE.com
GRAND TERRACE CITY COUNCIL CANDIDATES
LEE ANN GARCIA
AGE: 46
RESIDES: Grand Terrace
FAMILY: One son
OCCUPATION: President, Garcia, Overstreet & Associates
EDUCATION: Certificate, international relations; bachelor's degree, political science; master's degrees in national security studies and public administration, Cal State San Bernardino.
TOP FIVE PROFESSIONAL AND COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Board member, Omnitrans; member, Southern California Association of Governments Regional Council; board of directors, California League of Cities Inland Empire division member; member, Grand Terrace Chamber of Commerce; member, Friends of Grand Terrace Library.
BOB MENDEZ
AGE : 56
RESIDES: Grand Terrace
FAMILY: Single, one daughter
OCCUPATION: Fire prevention specialist, San Bernardino County.
EDUCATION: Graduate, Colton High School, Cal State San Bernardino; Loma Linda University, Crafton Hills College.
TOP FIVE PROFESSIONAL AND COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: San Bernardino County Fire Prevention Officers Association; Fraternal Order of Eagles No. 997
JIM MILLER
AGE : 60
RESIDES: Grand Terrace
FAMILY: Married, four children
OCCUPATION: Real-property manager for San Bernardino County
EDUCATION: Master's in business administration, Pepperdine University
TOP FIVE PROFESSIONAL AND COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Board member, Grand Terrace Lions Club; board chairman, Goodwill Industries 1997-99
DONTAY NUNN
AGE: 22
RESIDES: Grand Terrace
FAMILY: Engaged, one daughter
OCCUPATION: In-home care provider
EDUCATION: Graduate, Martin Luther King High School, Riverside
TOP FIVE PROFESSIONAL AND COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: None
WALT STANCKIEWITZ
AGE : 58
RESIDES: Grand Terrace
FAMILY: Married, one daughter
OCCUPATION: Owner, La Pasta Italia, Grand Terrace
EDUCATION: Bachelor's degree, Southern Illinois University
TOP FIVE PROFESSIONAL AND COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: American Compensation Association
DOUG WILSON
AGE : 54
RESIDES: Grand Terrace
FAMILY: Married, one daughter
OCCUPATION: Business consultant
EDUCATION: Certificate, light-construction and development management, UC Irvine.
TOP FIVE PROFESSIONAL AND COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Chairman, Grand Terrace Planning Commission.
Dontay might be young, but he is right on. But it isn't that the council is out of touch. They just don't care because facilities for young people don't bring in any revenue.
The only thing Maryetta and Steve Berry care about is making money. They have said that the city is already making money. So why do we need a mall of any sort. Grand Terrace is too small for that sort of thing. If they do need to build, why not near the freeway in the ol "Outdoor Center Project".
I know who Walt is and I don't believe he lives in Grand Terrace by full choice. He is a business owner in GT and only moved to GT only after the Fires burned his home. His home was in the mountains.
Bob Mendez is a plant by Steve Berry. Steve Berry, who also doesn't live in GT is supporting this guy. Bob Mendez is completely out of touch.
My votes go to Doug Wilson, for being very knowledgeable and always having time to listen, Jim Miller, for supporting the people of GT and Dontay for supporting the children. (I just hope he has the backbone to stand up to Maryetta.)
08:46 AM PDT on Thursday, October 9, 2008
By JULIE FARREN
The Press-Enterprise
A new high school, centralized town center and fiscal responsibility are among the top concerns of two incumbents and four challengers vying for Grand Terrace City Council seats on Nov. 4.
Incumbents Jim Miller and Lee Ann Garcia are up for re-election. Councilman Dan Buchanan, who was appointed in 2007 to replace Councilwoman Maryetta Ferre, who was elected mayor, is not running.
The four challengers are Doug Wilson, Bob Mendez, Walt Stanckiewitz and Dontay Nunn.
The candidates generally agree on some issues, including development, programs for residents and a new high school.
As far as residential development, Grand Terrace has no more room to grow.
Commercially, however, the city is moving ahead with several projects, including a Town Center and the Grand Crossings retail center.
Garcia said she supports development but said the city must protect its interests and ensure that new projects are compatible with the town.
"We have to be very cautious and careful about what we allow into our city," she said.
Wilson, a Grand Terrace planning commissioner for 17 years, said discussions with the developers of the Town Center and Grand Crossings are crucial to bringing the right projects to the city.
Financially, the city has to plan ahead, Wilson said.
"Economics are going to play a big role," Wilson said.
Stanckiewitz said he would like to see Grand Terrace grow beyond the kinds of businesses it has now, like hair salons and sandwich shops.
"We've got plenty of those stores, but we don't have destination shopping," he said.
Mendez said Grand Terrace needs more restaurants.
"I'd like to see another restaurant," he said. "I'd like to see another mini mall where people could shop, more unique kinds of stores like Trader Joe's."
A new high school also is at the top of the list of the candidates' concerns. The site is on the edge of Grand Terrace, near Highgrove.
"Colton Joint Unified School District is going to fulfill its obligation and provide us a high school," said Miller. "I think it's going that way."
Wilson also is in favor of a high school but said the city isn't directly involved in the planning of it. "The city really doesn't have a whole lot of involvement," he said.
Nunn, the youngest candidate at 22, said he believes city leaders don't understand what the young people in town want.
"I think the Grand Terrace City Council is out of touch and I don't think they really want a high school," he said.
Nunn and Wilson said more programs are needed for children and teens and they would like to see a youth center and skateboard park in the city.
"Let's get these kids somewhere to go," said Nunn. "That's what I need to be there for."
The city gets high marks from the candidates for its fiscal responsibility. Garcia said Grand Terrace historically saves its money and has healthy reserves.
"We try to rely on as little as possible outside funding," she said.
Stanckiewitz said the city is doing a good job but needs to be certain that it hangs onto its reserve fund of more than $5 million.
"They have done very well," he said. "The budget has stayed on track. I know there is a rainy day fund but we have to make sure it doesn't disappear on us."
Miller said increasing sales tax revenue would add more money for programs the city can't afford to cut.
"We don't have a very large budget for being a small city," said Miller.
Mendez, a first-time candidate with a background as a firefighter, said there is one service that Grand Terrace needs.
"My goal is to bring paramedics into the city," he said.
Reach Julie Farren at 909-806-3066 or jfarren@PE.com
GRAND TERRACE CITY COUNCIL CANDIDATES
LEE ANN GARCIA
AGE: 46
RESIDES: Grand Terrace
FAMILY: One son
OCCUPATION: President, Garcia, Overstreet & Associates
EDUCATION: Certificate, international relations; bachelor's degree, political science; master's degrees in national security studies and public administration, Cal State San Bernardino.
TOP FIVE PROFESSIONAL AND COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Board member, Omnitrans; member, Southern California Association of Governments Regional Council; board of directors, California League of Cities Inland Empire division member; member, Grand Terrace Chamber of Commerce; member, Friends of Grand Terrace Library.
BOB MENDEZ
AGE : 56
RESIDES: Grand Terrace
FAMILY: Single, one daughter
OCCUPATION: Fire prevention specialist, San Bernardino County.
EDUCATION: Graduate, Colton High School, Cal State San Bernardino; Loma Linda University, Crafton Hills College.
TOP FIVE PROFESSIONAL AND COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: San Bernardino County Fire Prevention Officers Association; Fraternal Order of Eagles No. 997
JIM MILLER
AGE : 60
RESIDES: Grand Terrace
FAMILY: Married, four children
OCCUPATION: Real-property manager for San Bernardino County
EDUCATION: Master's in business administration, Pepperdine University
TOP FIVE PROFESSIONAL AND COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Board member, Grand Terrace Lions Club; board chairman, Goodwill Industries 1997-99
DONTAY NUNN
AGE: 22
RESIDES: Grand Terrace
FAMILY: Engaged, one daughter
OCCUPATION: In-home care provider
EDUCATION: Graduate, Martin Luther King High School, Riverside
TOP FIVE PROFESSIONAL AND COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: None
WALT STANCKIEWITZ
AGE : 58
RESIDES: Grand Terrace
FAMILY: Married, one daughter
OCCUPATION: Owner, La Pasta Italia, Grand Terrace
EDUCATION: Bachelor's degree, Southern Illinois University
TOP FIVE PROFESSIONAL AND COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: American Compensation Association
DOUG WILSON
AGE : 54
RESIDES: Grand Terrace
FAMILY: Married, one daughter
OCCUPATION: Business consultant
EDUCATION: Certificate, light-construction and development management, UC Irvine.
TOP FIVE PROFESSIONAL AND COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES: Chairman, Grand Terrace Planning Commission.
From INTHENEWS: NEW EMPLOYEE
Here we go again: The City of Grand Terrace should not be in the business of attracting Retail Clients to fill Doug Jacobsen’s Private Development. To pay a person $115,000.00 per year to do what Doug Jacobsen should be doing is not the right thing to do with tax payer’s money.
It looks like Powers can spend money, what were the specific results of spending all that taxpayer money? That is not clear in this article.
BEFORE one additional Retail spot is built all available space should be filled or ready for back fill of all pre-existing or currently developed sites. That is called “RE-Development” not NEW Development.
Before you pave over the last bits of farming space, GT may want to think about how it will feed the citizens if the trucks stop bringing food to GT.
Good Luck GT… the cost of an employee is 2x’s their income so the City Council is spending $230,000.00 for this function. Note to Citizens…. This is the same City Council that will not fund the Sports Teams and thus forces them to sell fireworks putting the citizens at risk, because “they have no money”.
GT's new official an important development for city
Stephen Wall, Staff Writer
Article Launched: 10/08/2008 09:43:59 PM PDT
GRAND TERRACE - The city has a new asset in its quest to bring major retail projects to town.
Joyce Powers has been lured from Riverside to become the city's community and economic development director.
Her first day is Oct. 20.
"I think heads will turn when they see the quality of this person that is coming from Riverside to Grand Terrace," said Steve Berry, acting city manager.
Since 2003, Powers has been in charge of downtown projects for the city of Riverside, managing a 21-member staff and a $190 million budget for three redevelopment teams.
"She has a track record of negotiated solutions to developer challenges," Berry said. "She also has a track record in assembling properties and working with stakeholder and community groups.
She has a tremendous track record of starting a project and completing a project."
Powers previously worked for the cities of Oceanside, Temecula, Moreno Valley and Norco.
"I'm very pleased and very excited to start work in Grand Terrace," Powers said.
Powers will replace part-time Community Development Director Gary Koontz.
The City Council included money for a full-time position in the 2008-09 budget.
Koontz did not want to work five days a week, Berry said.
Powers, 51, will earn $115,000 a year, plus benefits. She beat out seven other candidates.
Berry said a full-time director is needed to move forward some key projects on
Barton Road and complete an update of the city's General Plan.
"There's a tremendous amount of work to be done," Berry said.
In the nearby Riverside County community of Highgrove, officials are looking at 40 acres for retail development at Garfield Avenue and Center Street.
"If that happens before we get our Barton Road projects going, we would have the unfortunate situation where half of our community could be shopping in Highgrove," Berry said. "We don't get any tax benefit or anything else.
" This is why we need to kick it up a notch."
In a letter to Berry expressing interest in the position, Powers said she has implemented many activities and programs to improve residents' quality of life.
She said that her experience includes a focus on city gateways and entrances to business parks, residential and commercial improvement programs, and quality affordable housing.
"We are fortunate to have someone of this caliber," Berry said.
It looks like Powers can spend money, what were the specific results of spending all that taxpayer money? That is not clear in this article.
BEFORE one additional Retail spot is built all available space should be filled or ready for back fill of all pre-existing or currently developed sites. That is called “RE-Development” not NEW Development.
Before you pave over the last bits of farming space, GT may want to think about how it will feed the citizens if the trucks stop bringing food to GT.
Good Luck GT… the cost of an employee is 2x’s their income so the City Council is spending $230,000.00 for this function. Note to Citizens…. This is the same City Council that will not fund the Sports Teams and thus forces them to sell fireworks putting the citizens at risk, because “they have no money”.
GT's new official an important development for city
Stephen Wall, Staff Writer
Article Launched: 10/08/2008 09:43:59 PM PDT
GRAND TERRACE - The city has a new asset in its quest to bring major retail projects to town.
Joyce Powers has been lured from Riverside to become the city's community and economic development director.
Her first day is Oct. 20.
"I think heads will turn when they see the quality of this person that is coming from Riverside to Grand Terrace," said Steve Berry, acting city manager.
Since 2003, Powers has been in charge of downtown projects for the city of Riverside, managing a 21-member staff and a $190 million budget for three redevelopment teams.
"She has a track record of negotiated solutions to developer challenges," Berry said. "She also has a track record in assembling properties and working with stakeholder and community groups.
She has a tremendous track record of starting a project and completing a project."
Powers previously worked for the cities of Oceanside, Temecula, Moreno Valley and Norco.
"I'm very pleased and very excited to start work in Grand Terrace," Powers said.
Powers will replace part-time Community Development Director Gary Koontz.
The City Council included money for a full-time position in the 2008-09 budget.
Koontz did not want to work five days a week, Berry said.
Powers, 51, will earn $115,000 a year, plus benefits. She beat out seven other candidates.
Berry said a full-time director is needed to move forward some key projects on
Barton Road and complete an update of the city's General Plan.
"There's a tremendous amount of work to be done," Berry said.
In the nearby Riverside County community of Highgrove, officials are looking at 40 acres for retail development at Garfield Avenue and Center Street.
"If that happens before we get our Barton Road projects going, we would have the unfortunate situation where half of our community could be shopping in Highgrove," Berry said. "We don't get any tax benefit or anything else.
" This is why we need to kick it up a notch."
In a letter to Berry expressing interest in the position, Powers said she has implemented many activities and programs to improve residents' quality of life.
She said that her experience includes a focus on city gateways and entrances to business parks, residential and commercial improvement programs, and quality affordable housing.
"We are fortunate to have someone of this caliber," Berry said.
Sunday, October 05, 2008
Speed UP... Slow DOWN... Mixed GT Speeds
Gramps was asked to find logic in the City's Plan to increase and decrease speed limits along the main roads of Mt. Vernon, Barton Rd, Michigan, and Main St's.
Well, there is an opinion in the City Management, that pushing the codes to the LIMIT is the better option in setting the speed limits. There is a California Code that allows that the speed be set at what the "Majority" of cars travel that speed as being the justification for the speed. THIS of course can be set aside due to road conditions or other safety reasons IF the CITY WAS of the MIND to establish the justification for a slower posted speed limit.
One problem in doing this is that speeding tickets could only be given to those who drive faster than 80 percent of the rest of the Traffic Speed... or something like that. BUT< there is no reason the speed limit could not be posted at say 35 mph in the hopes that the Citizens eventually conform to the lower and consistent speed and flow of traffic.
WHY DO THIS?
When the speed limits change from one place to the next it causes confusion for the driver and makes enforcement more difficult.
When the speed limit is posted at above 35 mph it block or excludes the use of Light Electric Vehicles or Neighborhood Electric Vehicles on the roads. THIS makes it a requirement for everyone in town to drive FULL SIZE Cars to go to the store. Seniors living in the New Senior Center will have to have cars because there is no public transportation and LEV's Can not drive on Barton RD or MT Vernon.
The area around Schools GT ELM and Terrace Hills have a reduced speed limit during School Time... so increasing the speed some times to above 25 requires additional enforcement.
When driver's are encouraged by a speed limit above 35mph on Mt Vernon or Barton Rd or Michigan, and Main St they use driving styles that are Quick Stops and Starts and this burns more fuel and produces more air and noise pollution.
A city wide Maximum Speed of 35mph would:
Move the City of Grand Terrace into the Green Friendly Community Transportation Group.
Encourage the use of LEV's NEV's for personal and business use.
Encourage a new local business of Local LEV Dealership and Delivery Services.
Improve Safety for Walkers, and Bike Riders, and lower the use and pollution for Gas Burning Cars and Trucks. A consistent speed slow starts and stops are better all around.
Just because the City Council cant muster the courage to change the signs does not mean you as citizens can't Slow down the Average Speed in Grand Terrace. DRIVE SLOW.... if you drive 5mph slower than the posted speed limit you will slow the other drivers on the road. Eventually, the City Council Members and City Management may see there is no NEED to SPEED...
Where I live now, we have a small service that has 4 LEV's that do our shopping and delivery in town... It is great to be picked up and brought home in an LEV. They even carry in the bags of groceries... AH... such service. For us Regulars the Cafe will arrange delivery of a meal on account too...
Good luck friends.... you have speed lovers on the City Council... As long as their lead feet are on the Council your going to have speed limits that encourage speeding.
Well, there is an opinion in the City Management, that pushing the codes to the LIMIT is the better option in setting the speed limits. There is a California Code that allows that the speed be set at what the "Majority" of cars travel that speed as being the justification for the speed. THIS of course can be set aside due to road conditions or other safety reasons IF the CITY WAS of the MIND to establish the justification for a slower posted speed limit.
One problem in doing this is that speeding tickets could only be given to those who drive faster than 80 percent of the rest of the Traffic Speed... or something like that. BUT< there is no reason the speed limit could not be posted at say 35 mph in the hopes that the Citizens eventually conform to the lower and consistent speed and flow of traffic.
WHY DO THIS?
When the speed limits change from one place to the next it causes confusion for the driver and makes enforcement more difficult.
When the speed limit is posted at above 35 mph it block or excludes the use of Light Electric Vehicles or Neighborhood Electric Vehicles on the roads. THIS makes it a requirement for everyone in town to drive FULL SIZE Cars to go to the store. Seniors living in the New Senior Center will have to have cars because there is no public transportation and LEV's Can not drive on Barton RD or MT Vernon.
The area around Schools GT ELM and Terrace Hills have a reduced speed limit during School Time... so increasing the speed some times to above 25 requires additional enforcement.
When driver's are encouraged by a speed limit above 35mph on Mt Vernon or Barton Rd or Michigan, and Main St they use driving styles that are Quick Stops and Starts and this burns more fuel and produces more air and noise pollution.
A city wide Maximum Speed of 35mph would:
Move the City of Grand Terrace into the Green Friendly Community Transportation Group.
Encourage the use of LEV's NEV's for personal and business use.
Encourage a new local business of Local LEV Dealership and Delivery Services.
Improve Safety for Walkers, and Bike Riders, and lower the use and pollution for Gas Burning Cars and Trucks. A consistent speed slow starts and stops are better all around.
Just because the City Council cant muster the courage to change the signs does not mean you as citizens can't Slow down the Average Speed in Grand Terrace. DRIVE SLOW.... if you drive 5mph slower than the posted speed limit you will slow the other drivers on the road. Eventually, the City Council Members and City Management may see there is no NEED to SPEED...
Where I live now, we have a small service that has 4 LEV's that do our shopping and delivery in town... It is great to be picked up and brought home in an LEV. They even carry in the bags of groceries... AH... such service. For us Regulars the Cafe will arrange delivery of a meal on account too...
Good luck friends.... you have speed lovers on the City Council... As long as their lead feet are on the Council your going to have speed limits that encourage speeding.
Thursday, October 02, 2008
Keeping up with the News= Gramps Notes
Price of Grand Terrace senior complex goes up
Stephen Wall, Staff Writer
ADDED NOTATIONS BY GRAMPS-are in BLUE
Article Launched: 10/02/2008 01:07:59 AM PDT
GRAND TERRACE - The first senior housing project is moving closer to reality, but the price tag is going up.
City Council last week approved spending an additional $740,000 in redevelopment funds to finish construction of the 120-unit housing complex known as the Blue Mountain Senior Villas.
The one- and two-bedroom apartments project for low- and middle-income seniors is being built on Grand Terrace Road just east of Mount Vernon Avenue.
Plans also call for a 7,000 square-foot senior center and a 2.5-acre park on the city-owned property.
It is expected to open in early 2009.
With the additional expense, the city's share of the nearly $22 million project will rise to about $9.6 million. The city's contribution will come from funds that can only be used for low- and moderate-income housing purposes.
The Corporation for Better Housing, the nonprofit developer of the project, will pay the rest.
Acting City Manager Steve Berry said the price of construction materials has gone up sharply since the project was budgeted originally several years ago. (A Reputable Contractor would know how to project the budget and costs of a Bid... OH... there was no Bidding on this Job)
The city also incurred legal expenses after the project was approved by the council in 2005.
A group of residents filed a lawsuit claiming the city did not properly address potential impacts such as traffic, noise and air pollution. (LEGAL ACTION only after the residents were disregarded by the City Council, Redevelopment Agency, and the Contractor. The City and the Contractor could have avoided the Legal Action and the Cost of the Legal Action if they had responded to the concerns of the Residents and Citizens of Grand Terrace.)
After the group won in court, the city completed an environmental impact report and made changes to the project to appease residents. The heights of the apartment complex and senior center were reduced from three stories to two.
The budget for the project also increased because water connection and service fees were included in the cost. Other expenses were for road improvements and upgraded furnishings and fixtures for the senior center and park. ( All Developers pay fees, and know what these fees will be and should be able to include them in their contracts. YES some of the GT Development Fees increased during the time of the Project. HOWEVER, this too could have been avoided by a competent Contractor by paying the FEES Prior to their Increase, knowing that the contract was a done deal. Failure to get the fees paid early should not be paid for by the City. Will they pay the Fees for anyone else?)
"I felt it was important that we move ahead," Mayor Maryetta Ferre said. "I felt it was an expenditure that needed to be made. This is for the public good. We're providing senior housing, we're providing a beautiful senior center, and we're providing a park."
Mayor Maryetta Ferre do you really think the Corporation for Better Housing would pack up their tools and leave the job. They have a 60 year lease to operate the Housing Development and collect rents and fees from the residents. They will get their money and use out of the Development. The Inclusion of the Center and Park were always part of the price tag and so there is no reason or justification for touting this as being a support for the increased price tag.
No writing the check or Bailing out Corporation for Better Housing is reward to a Bad Actor, by other Bad Actors the City Council and City Manager. Unfortunately the people paying for their actions will be the Citizens not the Members of the City Council and City Manager. Or is has the Mayor and City Manager offered to sell their homes to cover the additional costs?
Funds for the Development "Came Available to Grand Terrace" as a part of a Redevelopment Agency Requirement. The deal works like this. The RDA can get a DEBT at or DEVELOPMENT BOND at a discounted rate, but how that money is spent is regulated or assigned. OUR RDA has a DEBT Load of over 15,000,000,000. Yes that is 15 Million Dollars. The City Manager / RDA Director insists that this debt is not a Liability but an asset. Folks get a dictionary, DEBT is a LIABILITY to be repaid.
Well the fact is the City of Grand Terrace had used up all its funds EXCEPT for the required Low Income Housing Development Funds that were required. Facing Serious Penalty the City was forced to build Low Income Housing. Building a Senior Housing Project was the least offencive to this City Council/RDA. HOWEVER, the California Housing Authority has already stated that Grand Terrace can not only provide Low Income Housing opportunity's to Seniors Only, and be in compliance with the regulations of the RDA and Housing Requirements stipulated in the Grants and Bonds, and Funds used by the City thus Far.
SO, the selling of City Assets, and perhaps the Homes of the City Council and City Manager may offset some of the cost of having accepted Redevelopment Debt Based Funds in the First Place.
IS is Clear YET that an economy based on Debt is Good, is not an economy that will be sustainable for the long term. Have You had Enough YET Grand Terrace? By the way, Gramps now lives in a town that has NO Redevelopment AGENCY and ZERO DEBT. When Gramps Needs to have a chicken or two, or even a milk goat at his new little house, there is no code to prevent him from doing so. In addition, this town expects all homes to have a business of some sort and provides Wireless Internet connections and banking services to promote Internet Businesses in their community. Gramps is sorry to see GT be hurt, but unless you all restore GT to PRODUCE something more than retail sales, the future there is going to be difficult.
Note:
Increased Water Fees... at the same time the Water Company Moves into a New Facility with a Private Gym for the Board and Employees. IF the Water Company is a PUBLIC Company then the GYM should be PUBLIC and not just for EMPLOYEES and BOARD MEMBERS.
Perhaps they could have a GYM Club for GT Youth called The DRIPS... Body Building/ Weight Loss, and PLUMBING... OH MY!!!! How about a row a bikes attached to a shaft to turn the water pumps. Or some Giant Swings for a GT Swingers Club where the Swing action energy is used to pump water or generate power.
Stephen Wall, Staff Writer
ADDED NOTATIONS BY GRAMPS-are in BLUE
Article Launched: 10/02/2008 01:07:59 AM PDT
GRAND TERRACE - The first senior housing project is moving closer to reality, but the price tag is going up.
City Council last week approved spending an additional $740,000 in redevelopment funds to finish construction of the 120-unit housing complex known as the Blue Mountain Senior Villas.
The one- and two-bedroom apartments project for low- and middle-income seniors is being built on Grand Terrace Road just east of Mount Vernon Avenue.
Plans also call for a 7,000 square-foot senior center and a 2.5-acre park on the city-owned property.
It is expected to open in early 2009.
With the additional expense, the city's share of the nearly $22 million project will rise to about $9.6 million. The city's contribution will come from funds that can only be used for low- and moderate-income housing purposes.
The Corporation for Better Housing, the nonprofit developer of the project, will pay the rest.
Acting City Manager Steve Berry said the price of construction materials has gone up sharply since the project was budgeted originally several years ago. (A Reputable Contractor would know how to project the budget and costs of a Bid... OH... there was no Bidding on this Job)
The city also incurred legal expenses after the project was approved by the council in 2005.
A group of residents filed a lawsuit claiming the city did not properly address potential impacts such as traffic, noise and air pollution. (LEGAL ACTION only after the residents were disregarded by the City Council, Redevelopment Agency, and the Contractor. The City and the Contractor could have avoided the Legal Action and the Cost of the Legal Action if they had responded to the concerns of the Residents and Citizens of Grand Terrace.)
After the group won in court, the city completed an environmental impact report and made changes to the project to appease residents. The heights of the apartment complex and senior center were reduced from three stories to two.
The budget for the project also increased because water connection and service fees were included in the cost. Other expenses were for road improvements and upgraded furnishings and fixtures for the senior center and park. ( All Developers pay fees, and know what these fees will be and should be able to include them in their contracts. YES some of the GT Development Fees increased during the time of the Project. HOWEVER, this too could have been avoided by a competent Contractor by paying the FEES Prior to their Increase, knowing that the contract was a done deal. Failure to get the fees paid early should not be paid for by the City. Will they pay the Fees for anyone else?)
"I felt it was important that we move ahead," Mayor Maryetta Ferre said. "I felt it was an expenditure that needed to be made. This is for the public good. We're providing senior housing, we're providing a beautiful senior center, and we're providing a park."
Mayor Maryetta Ferre do you really think the Corporation for Better Housing would pack up their tools and leave the job. They have a 60 year lease to operate the Housing Development and collect rents and fees from the residents. They will get their money and use out of the Development. The Inclusion of the Center and Park were always part of the price tag and so there is no reason or justification for touting this as being a support for the increased price tag.
No writing the check or Bailing out Corporation for Better Housing is reward to a Bad Actor, by other Bad Actors the City Council and City Manager. Unfortunately the people paying for their actions will be the Citizens not the Members of the City Council and City Manager. Or is has the Mayor and City Manager offered to sell their homes to cover the additional costs?
Funds for the Development "Came Available to Grand Terrace" as a part of a Redevelopment Agency Requirement. The deal works like this. The RDA can get a DEBT at or DEVELOPMENT BOND at a discounted rate, but how that money is spent is regulated or assigned. OUR RDA has a DEBT Load of over 15,000,000,000. Yes that is 15 Million Dollars. The City Manager / RDA Director insists that this debt is not a Liability but an asset. Folks get a dictionary, DEBT is a LIABILITY to be repaid.
Well the fact is the City of Grand Terrace had used up all its funds EXCEPT for the required Low Income Housing Development Funds that were required. Facing Serious Penalty the City was forced to build Low Income Housing. Building a Senior Housing Project was the least offencive to this City Council/RDA. HOWEVER, the California Housing Authority has already stated that Grand Terrace can not only provide Low Income Housing opportunity's to Seniors Only, and be in compliance with the regulations of the RDA and Housing Requirements stipulated in the Grants and Bonds, and Funds used by the City thus Far.
SO, the selling of City Assets, and perhaps the Homes of the City Council and City Manager may offset some of the cost of having accepted Redevelopment Debt Based Funds in the First Place.
IS is Clear YET that an economy based on Debt is Good, is not an economy that will be sustainable for the long term. Have You had Enough YET Grand Terrace? By the way, Gramps now lives in a town that has NO Redevelopment AGENCY and ZERO DEBT. When Gramps Needs to have a chicken or two, or even a milk goat at his new little house, there is no code to prevent him from doing so. In addition, this town expects all homes to have a business of some sort and provides Wireless Internet connections and banking services to promote Internet Businesses in their community. Gramps is sorry to see GT be hurt, but unless you all restore GT to PRODUCE something more than retail sales, the future there is going to be difficult.
Note:
Increased Water Fees... at the same time the Water Company Moves into a New Facility with a Private Gym for the Board and Employees. IF the Water Company is a PUBLIC Company then the GYM should be PUBLIC and not just for EMPLOYEES and BOARD MEMBERS.
Perhaps they could have a GYM Club for GT Youth called The DRIPS... Body Building/ Weight Loss, and PLUMBING... OH MY!!!! How about a row a bikes attached to a shaft to turn the water pumps. Or some Giant Swings for a GT Swingers Club where the Swing action energy is used to pump water or generate power.
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