October 9, 2007 City Council Agenda

Note still no support documents available on line....

CITY OF GRAND TERRACE
COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS October 9, 2007
GRAND TERRACE CIVIC CENTER 6:00 PM
22795 Barton Road

THE CITY OF GRAND TERRACE COMPLIES WITH THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT OF 1990. IF YOU REQUIRE SPECIAL ASSISTANCE TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS MEETING, PLEASE CALL THE CITY CLERK’S OFFICE AT (909) 824-6621 AT LEAST 48 HOURS PRIOR TO THE MEETING.

IF YOU DESIRE TO ADDRESS THE CITY COUNCIL DURING THE MEETING, PLEASE COMPLETE A REQUEST TO SPEAK FORM AVAILABLE AT THE ENTRANCE AND PRESENT IT TO THE CITY CLERK. SPEAKERS WILL BE CALLED UPON BY THE MAYOR AT THE APPROPRIATE TIME.

* Call to Order -
* Invocation -
* Pledge of Allegiance -
* Roll Call -

CONVENE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY 6 PM

1. Approval of 09-11-2007 Minutes

2. Memorandum of Understanding with Grand Terrace Partners, LLC ADJOURN COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY

CONVENE CITY COUNCIL MEETING
1. Items to Delete

2. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
A. Proclamation - Fire Prevention Week - October 7-13, 2007

3. CONSENT CALENDAR

The following Consent Calendar items are expected to be routine and noncontroversial. They will be acted upon by the Council at one time without discussion. Any Council Member, Staff Member, or Citizen may request removal of an item from the Consent Calendar for discussion.

A. Approve Check Register Dated October 9, 2007
B. Waive Full Reading of Ordinances on Agenda
C. Approval of 09-11-2007 Minutes
D. Award of the Competitively Bid Barton Road Re-Construction Contract to the Lowest Bidder (Roquet Paving)

4. PUBLIC COMMENT

This is the opportunity for members of the public to comment on any items not appearing on the regular agenda. Because of restrictions contained in California Law, the City Council may not discuss or act on any item not on the agenda, but may briefly respond to statements made or ask a question for clarification. The Mayor may also request a brief response from staff to questions raised during public comment or may request a matter be agendized for a future meeting.

5. REPORTS
B. Committee Reports
1. Historical & Cultural Activities Committee
a. Minutes of July 2, 2007 & September 10, 2007
2. Emergency Operations Committee
a. Minutes of September 4, 2007
A. Council Reports

6. PUBLIC HEARINGS - None

7. UNFINISHED BUSINESS

A. Second Reading An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Grand Terrace, California, Amending Grand Terrace Municipal Code, Chapter 10, Section 10.08, Establishing Speed Limits for Various Streets in the City of Grand Terrace

8. NEW BUSINESS - None

9. CLOSED SESSION - None

ADJOURN

THE NEXT CRA/CITY COUNCIL MEETING WILL BE HELD ON TUESDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2007 AT 6:00 P.M.

AGENDA ITEM REQUESTS MUST BE SUBMITTED IN WRITING TO THE CITY CLERK’S OFFICE NO LATER THAN 14 CALENDAR DAYS PRECEDING THE MEETING

Planning Commission Meeting Report Oct 4, 2007

G.T. Planning Commission

Meeting Agenda Hid the real Topics Covered.

Just a short note as lot of varying topics, under guise of simple agenda subject.

Next meeting is first hearing of Anti-Big Antenna ordinance, and how to control them. Was some controversy over this when the City Planning Dept. got flat spotted via no special Ordinance.

Approved was the Landscaping Plan for Park area of Senior Center. It looks good now on a flat piece of paper, but what will it look like later. One resident of Brentwood complained that they now have an embankment in back yard, and it is to remain, but the resident thought they heard via staff it was only temporary. This is to be a Reflective park, not an active park. No, kids, nor dogs permitted, no noises, no bar-b-que pits, no.......

Remainder of night was on the Agricultural zone. Seems a bit restrictive in present tense. Was a petition for folks in N.E. area of city brought forth, but the same residents folded when asked to speak. Zero came forth.


Much discussion on current areas in standard R-1 zone, and how a few more along west side of Grand terrace Road would like to join it. Then some thing on putting Industrial uses next to common R-1 housing like in central Michigan Street. Folks keep saying to leave neighborhoods as is, the Planning Dept. keeps saying Lets look to Future.

I don't think they are communicating very well. Although the G.T. Planning staff keep saying "Tell us what you want, and we'll do it, they have yet to figure out a way to keep status-quo on any of their maps or papers" I had to remind them on how recently the City of Moreno Valley redesignated a huge chunk of property zoned for Park purposes, to an Air-Park purpose. Thus residents have Boeing 707 jets taxiing fifty feet from their rear yards. But in looking at the bright side, they only do this after 10PM, so don't bother street traffic any, and the property owners are mostly Non-residents so only the renters are affected. After all an Air-Park is same as a Green Park isn't it?

Next meeting on 16th. We'll see if anything got changed or not.

Small Error or Intent to Comitt Demo of Private Property?

You may have seen a crime underway and not noticed it.

Fence posts that would have included Jo Stringfields Property were being put in on her property.

UPDATE: Well, I have been informed, it was a Person working with a CITY WORK ORDER. I have not yet been informed of yet WHO WAS THE EMPLOYER. Turns out the City is trying to Prohibit "Illegal Dumping" but the Dumping is from Construction / Developers. When was this put on the City Council Agenda? Perhaps if it were the Dumpers would have been Identified for the City Officials to then hold them to a Clean UP and Fence if needed, not the Citizens of GT.

Did you notice that the Errant Worker was using the water from Jo's House? Is this Theft of Utilities. Was there an Arrest that went along with Trespass Violation. Jo's Land is clearly posted no Trespassing, and Jacobsen should assume that means him, his agents and any of his contractors and employees, and CITY EMPLOYEES

Perhaps this "Mistake" was just a prelude to the house being accidentally bulldozed while Jo was at work. Should she have to worry that one day she comes home to an empty field, and a note that says, sorry... Whoops.

No doubt that note would be in both Spanish and English. No Doubt the City Offices would be closed on that day... so no one could be held responsible.. Say any Friday after a Council Meeting.

It is time the City Planning Department, and the City Building Inspector make sure that all contractors know what they are doing where, and are licensed to do business in Grand Terrace and have sufficient insurance to cover their errors.

It may be time for Doug Jacobsen or the CITY OF GT to pay a fine for harassment, equal to the cost of one full time security guard 24/7 to protect the property, and safety of Jo's Land. Of course she would be able to hire the person directly. Doug and TOM only paying a lump sum into an escrow account for the purpose of securing the Property NOT OWNED by them.

You would think that the "Good Neighbor" that Doug Jacobsen said he wanted to be would make sure his employees and contractors would NOT Trespass on Jo Stringfield's Property, or use her Utilities. You would think that the City would be on BEST CAUTION any where near the property.

But, these are the "Good Neighbors" who has not held a real public meeting after getting an Exclusive Agreement, with the City Council and City Manager. This is the Same "Good Neighbors" who collaborated with the RDA/City Threats to use Eminent Domain to take possession of Private Property for Private Development. This is the "Good Neighbors" who wants to expand the Junk Food, Booze Outlets in our community as a "Good Thing For the Community", now that a Daylabor Camp/Lowes has been rejected by the community and the tenacity of Jo Stringfield who wants to enjoy the full use and value of her property as she deems fit.

Perhaps we should all go to the City Council Member's and City Employee's Homes and Put up a Fence, and use their Water.

It is time they respect peoples property rights, and keep off it and out of our personal use of personal property.

From In the News: Via the Email INBox...

In the Sun Local Buzz by Stephen Wall wrote:

British retail giant Tesco has identified Barton Road and Mount Vernon Avenue as a potential location for a new Fresh & Easy market.

Fresh & Easy could occupy the spot after Stater Bros. moves to a new location a short distance away. Stater Bros. is set to become an anchor tenant for a new shopping center at Barton Road and Michigan Avenue. Fresh & Easy plans to open 48 stores in the Inland Empire in the next few years.

From the Email InBox: Motives of the Mayor and Manager

Dear Gramps More on the topic:

The question being is the comments via an Over-Active Mayor or is work progressing via an Over-Active City Manager? It may be somewhere in between. When I attend
City Council meetings, there does not seem to be a lot of discussion on certain High Dollar items. Are the two Over Active ones supporting one another? Each
wanting to be 'least 1% better than the other, and things are getting more outrageous by the minute. Kind of like we ought to clear land for a balistic missle
launching site if it will make a permanent name for one or the other. The residents may not like it, but BOY!! will it bring in the sales taxes, and we are sure they then will appreciate us later on.

Are the two trying to make a buck off the Non-residents, plus a name for them selves in the making, or are they interested in the community?

I never would have thought of inviting the Unified School District in just for getting my name up in cast stainless steel letters across the front. I think you correct now, and may not have seen it, but now think you are correct. The high school is dead.

What's up for the property then? I can pop you out an new environmental report over the weekend, that is sure to get approved. Can you get some crayons and make up a plan ('course we won't show it to anyone).

It will get approved at next meeting, you'll see.

In the News: Senior Housing Lawsuit

http://www.sbsun.com/news/ci_7067213

Lawsuit filed against city to halt new senior-housing complex
Stephen Wall, Staff Writer
Article Launched: 10/02/2007 10:20:53 PM PDT


GRAND TERRACE - Opponents of a 120-unit senior housing complex have filed another lawsuit to stop the project.

A group of residents called Citizens for Responsible and Open Government claims the city failed to perform an adequate environmental analysis of the project.

The project would cause significant problems with noise, traffic and air quality, according to the suit filed last week in San Bernardino Superior Court.

The suit also states the project is inconsistent with the city's General Plan.

A hearing in the case is set for Nov. 14 in Superior Court.

Grading started two weeks ago on the housing complex known as the Blue Mountain Senior Villas, geared toward low and middle- income seniors age 65 and older. A new senior center and park are also planned on the city-owned property on Grand Terrace Road just east of Mount Vernon Avenue.

The City Council approved revised plans for the project in August in response to a previous lawsuit filed by the same group.

The initial suit was filed in late 2005 after the council first approved the project.

Superior Court Judge John Wade ruled last year that the earlier project might produce substantial environmental impacts.

The city performed an environmental-impact report to address the judge's concerns, and new plans were submitted.

The City Council decided to lower the height of the apartment building from three to two stories to appease residents concerned about blocked views.

City Manager Tom Schwab said the new lawsuit will not delay construction of the project.

Schwab expects the apartments to be open by next fall.

"I'm disappointed," he said of the suit. "It's just a waste of time and money. We did an (environmental report) with the full expectation we would be asked to defend it in court. We did a very careful analysis that took a year to complete. We're absolutely positive that our (report) is solid and the judge will uphold our project and let us continue to move forward."

Raymond Johnson, the Temecula-based attorney representing the citizens' group, did not respond to a phone call or e-mail seeking comment.

Members of the group could not be reached for comment.

Barbara Berliner, who lives directly behind the project site, said she is not a member of the group but supports the lawsuit.

"It does not belong in this neighborhood," said Berliner, a 21-year Brentwood Street resident. "One hundred twenty apartments on three acres is ridiculous when they have more room on Barton Road, where it should be built."

Berliner said she will lose her view and apartment residents will be able to look in her backyard.

"I'm not happy about this at all," Berliner said. "I'm very disappointed the city doesn't want to hear other options."

Mayor Maryetta Ferre said most residents want the project to be built at its approved location.

"I think we've dotted every `i' and crossed every `t,' Ferre said. "This is badly needed, and the community is looking forward with great enthusiasm to it being completed. We've done what (the court) asked us to do. Now, we're moving forward."

Gramps Adds:

The City’s Environmental Impact Report said the Best Site for the Senior Housing would be Mid Town where the Residents would be close to stores, and where it was planned in Prior Plans.

Citizens were not allowed to provide input on a Proposed Plan as the Plan and the EIR were done without showing the Public the Plans in a Detail that would allow for detailed informed input.

There are more issues than the height of the buildings.

Yes, Mr. Schwab this will cost money, and it is YOU who has lead the city down this costly path.

How is it NOTICE of the Legal action was reported in the BLOG prior to the “REAL NEWS PAPER”?

Thanks a lot..

From the Email InBox: HS#3 De-railed...DO Tell

Regarding the story at the G.T. Blog regarding the High School meetings, and what was mentioned. You may be correct in much of that, but...

The school story may be interesting, and as predicted, but you got the RR situation based upon rumor instead of fact. Am familiar with the RR going through G.T. for it was originally (circa 1880) built as narrow gauge, The San Bernardino Valley Transportation Company, beginning from downtown San Bernardino. It was bought by the Southern Pacific Transportation Co. then electrified by the Pacific Electric Ry. about
1926.

The track is owned by the Riverside County Transportation Agency since 1992. That is why it does not show up upon S.B. County tax records. It is operated by the Union Pacific as Lesser presently. One fact here is that about one year ago the Union Pacific out distanced the U.K. based British Rail, and is now about the fourth largest rail system- in- the- World. They have more Chicago Lawyers than the future G.T. High school would have students. So little chance that anything a biased Environmental Report by a puny Unified School District would say could stick. Those Chicago lawyers could delay some city/county based injunction for decades. Don't matter what is said in that puny bunch of papers. I think here too the attorneys of Riverside County would become active, for they have a monetary interest in to the branch.

It may not be visible, but the track is operated five days per week. No real changes there. Currently, they park locomotives (one GP-40 turbocharged and one GP-39 Un-turbocharged) near to the S.C.E. switching station along Taylor street. They are former mainline locomotives of very high mileage right now. They used to be parked overnight at north end of 9th street spur, up near to the Sunset Route mainline, but vandals got to them too often, as seen by the graffiti. A good ten years ago, they were stored overnight at warehouse location in Eastern Riverside.

The R.C.T.C. paid several million for an upgrade to the Riverside Branch about four years ago, and they have zero interest into letting the line go to hell. After all, the County of Riverside invested quite heavily in to new concrete tilt-up buildings and a new spur in the Highgrove area. Thus to be safe the locomotives are parked where they are at presently, not by choice but by need. I have seen one fifty carload train, but more usually they are 10 -12 cars long each day (yet another unseen movement). A Driver is hired to round up a crew at the West Colton yard each morning, and then deliver them via a white van to where the locomotives were parked overnight. (Not visible either).

The freight cars for Riverside branch destinations are arranged in south Colton beginning at about 4AM, six days per week. About 7AM the overnight locomotives then go north downhill over the river to set out empties, and obtain loads set out for them on a five days per week basis. Around 8AM they couple on and then take loads south, uphill to destinations like the truss manufacturer in south G.T. then on to switch cars at the noted new north Highgrove spurs, and on into the City of Riverside where the scrap/recycle yard is located. The Environmental Report that I read indicated zero traffic over the branch for a number of years. (They need a new writer) Further interest to the school district is in that an inquiry was made to re-activate the old spur going in to the A.E.S. property so that they could obtain extra heavy shipments. My thought is that Sacramento would take a dim view of abandoning or altering existent railroad tracks, such to meet the needs of the kiddies.

Thus, the Colton School District has come upon two Immovable Objects, the A.E.S. plant renovation, and the R.C.T.C. Neither of which will budge.

I further think that the Colton School District is going to find difficulty in obtaining approval from any future bond measure within city limits of G.T. that may fall upon the ballot. The residents paid out a lot, well for an empty field with a sign saying to be built - tomorrow,.....

"As in those 1930's movies, Lets put up a sign and that will make folks feel better per Andy Rooney" You think an over active Mayor is behind any of this?


And,

That Environmental report and set of plans for the Senior Center must have been assembled by a "Low Bidder" I saw so many holes in what was written, there was no need to stand up and complain before the podium.

Any first year law student could tell you that what the P.C. said cannot be put in to written orders; they must first see the work on paper. A five dollar motion before the court will bring the whole plan back before the P.C. again. The P.C. can state Minor revisions, but nothing as major as discussed that night. Those who were in attendance heard P.C. Matt Addington about to propose a motion to fix things, then bring back for approval. He was over voiced by Stockdale, indicating it all was beautiful.

Gramps Adds:

Thanks for the great detail. The prior posts were reporting a single viewing of the rail being used.

The Cost of Filing a Petition with the court was apparently over $300.00. You are right the Blue Mt. Senior Villas is back in court. My Judgment is that it should have gone before the Planning Commission and had Public Hearings prior to the City Council Suggesting Approval, and moving ahead with more “Work on Site”.

I don’t think it is a problem with an overactive Mayor, I think it is a Problem from a City Manager, Redevelopment Agency Director who is directing all these miss adventures, and an INACTIVE, UNTHINKING COUNCIL is just being lead down the path of perils. Like with the School Bond Money, the Citizens of Grand Terrace and the State of California and the United States of America will pay for the folly of our city by paying with taxpayers funds loans on buildings, and land deals, while the Hand Picked Exclusive developers rake in the cash.

We see this same behavior at the National Level, and Shame on Us for letting it rule our City Too.

From Email InBox: More on Going Green

Grand Terrace Needs a Simple Green Program:

With the City Wide Promotion of Florescent Lights the City has failed to provide a Environmentally Prudent Disposal Method or Collection Point for Spent Florescent Bulbs.

These Bulbs are a good thing, but should be recycled and cared for independent of trash or other recyclables. They contain a small amount of mercury and that should be disposed of with GREAT CARE, and recaptured to insure its perpetual use, and keeping it out of the water table.

A Depository Box like the book return could be placed either at City Hall or at some other convenient spot. Where we can drive up and dispose of our spent florescent bulbs.

Thanks Gramps for the Green Work..

Why Not? Go Real GEEEERRRREEEN

Many Cities and Towns are seeing that Pygmy Goats are Animals that fit in an Urban Environment.

Goats are not any noisier than a Dog.
Goats eat weeds, ( and anything else they can get a bite of)
Goats provide Milk
Goats provide great compost for gardens. Goats Fecal Matter is sweet smelling and is easily converted to either compost or natural gas.

Dogs Bark
Dogs Eat Processed Food that has to be grown, processed and transported to be purchased.
Dogs produce fecal matter that has no use other than putting it in the dump or letting flies grow in it.

Dogs do produce milk, but that is seldom consumed by humans.

Yes, Goats and Dogs can be eaten depending on your ethnic and cultural practices. Dogs are "Protected" from being included in the American Diet, and most backyard goats would also be Companion Animals and not intended for Food other than Milk Production. However, there should not be a preclusion on the use of the Goat one way or the other.

Note Thousands of Dogs are Killed and tossed in the DUMP because they are not cared for as Pets. Goats that end up on the Table at least don't end up in the DUMP, after being tormented at the "City Animal Shelter".

Goats under 250 Lbs, are or should not be restricted any more than a Great Dane Dog.

Chickens (Female) or Ducks should be allowed in small numbers in every Home in Grand Terrace as they are in San Bernardino.

If we want to be "Green" we need to connect to the Land and the Circle of Life more than running to the store for all of our food.

When the City can Hire a Gang of Goats and a Citizen can't have a single goat, there is a breach of logic, and dare I say Justice.

HS #3 Still In Question for Grand Terrace

If you hear someone say HS #3 will be built after all there is a sign that says so.... don't trust that person with your wallet or your children.

The Joint Meeting of the School Board and the City Council made some reality come to the discussion.

Yes, the School District will Nix the High School Location in GT, If there is an environmental risk due to the New Proposed use of the Power Station by AES, and IF AES will not limit the hours of operation of that power plant.

Yes, the School District needs a HS # 4 in Bloomington, and to transport students from Bloomington or even parts of Colton to attend school in Grand Terrace will be an annual transportation expense that may become overburdens om with transportation costs blooming like a bad case of hives.

Yes, there would be a problem with limited law enforcement and security available to the HS #3 as the School District uses Colton Police Department and the City of Grand Terrace does not.

Yes, there will be a problem with traffic, and busing in students to fill a 2500 student school, when at most Grand Terrace will have 1000 students for the High School. A school with more commuter students than community students will not be a healthy school community with the Majority of Students being disconnected from the community where the school is located.

Yes, there are financial problems and the MONEY IS GONE... the funds remaining may build a Speciality School which housed Students from GT on a Priority and would host a limited number of students attracted to a specialized curriculum. This would save the cost of building a Full Sports Facility for example. An Outdoor Stage like the Redlands Bowl, as an Architectural Feature to a Building, for example the Arts and Dance Studio... Physical Education can be Marching Band, and Ball Room Dancing.

NO, you aren't going to get the school "Promised" or "Planned" by the City Council and Prior Superintendent of Schools.

NO, you can't build if you don't have money.

No, you can't have a full time operating power plant across the street from a High School Football and Physical Education Facility.

No, a sign posted does not make a High School being built a guarantee.

If you think it does, than sit on Santa Clause's Lap this year and ask for Peace on Earth, and a new BMW, and Payment of All the Worlds DEBT. You'll have just as much assurance of delivery.


Side Note:

The Rail Lines or Spur that the School District says needs to be removed and is "Unused" was in fact used a few weeks ago. A couple of Locomotives and a rail car were on the spur. This may be an effort by the Rail Road to demonstrate continued need and use of those rails as a turnout for service equipment or breakdowns.

Dear Santa:

Give us a Small High School, for our students, in a save place, and within our budget. We can't afford more taxes, or bond issues. We can't afford to transport students back and forth to different cities to attend school.

Give us a City Council and School Board that can grasp the idea, bigger is not always better, and Debt is not a good thing.

Going Green is going Local. Local Schools, Local Shopping, and so forth.

Thanks Santa

NEW: Court Petition Regarding Blue Mt. Senior Villas Filed

Home Complaints/Parties Actions Minutes
Pending Hearings Case Report

Case CIVSS706633 - Complaints/Parties

Complaint Number: 1
Complaint Type: PETITION
Filing Date: 09/26/2007
Complaint Status: ACTIVE

Party Number Party Type Party Name Attorney Party Status

1 PETITIONER CITIZENS FOR RESPONSIBLE AND OPEN GOVERNMEN , JOHNSON & SE DLACK First Paper Fee Paid

2 RESPONDENT CITY OF GRAND TERRACE Serve Required (WaitS)

3 RESPONDENT GRAND TERRACE REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY Serve Required (WaitS)
4 RESPONDENT CORPORATION FOR BETTER HOUSING Serve Required (WaitS)


Case CIVSS706633 - Actions/Minutes

Viewed Date Action Text Disposition
11/14/2007 8:30 AM DEPT. S33 STATUS HEARING ON PETITION
Minutes
NOTICE PRINTED FOR JOHNSON & SE DLACK ON 9/26/07.

09/26/2007 CASE ASSIGNED FOR ALL PURPOSES TO DEPARTMENT S33
09/26/2007 PETITION AND PARTY INFORMATION ENTERED (CIVIL)

Receipt: 070926-2463 $320.00

Case CIVSS706633 - Pending Hearings

Date Action Text Disposition
11/14/2007 8:30 AM DEPT. S33 STATUS HEARING ON PETITION

Town Square.... Plans Still Pending..

We await the Opportunity Doug Jacobsen Promised he would be providing the Citizens of Grand Terrace to participate in the Development of the Town Center, and Design Elements related to the area and adjoining areas.

Mr. Jacobsen has not held a single meeting with the "Public" since he obtained the Exclusive Developer Agreement.

In addition, He has not fulfilled the requirements of that Agreement, missing goals and deadlines repeatedly.

In addition, the City's failure to go to bid for alternative Proposals for the RDA Property shows unfair practices. His contract or MOU has run out.

In addition, current plans are apparently to either have a Junk Food Road, or a Chili's Bar and Grill along with a MEGA STATER's. These Uses are not Pedestrian Friendly, nor do they add to the Sustainability of the Community, Nor do they make the community safer from crime, and or drunk drivers.

Not that anyone has asked.

Perhaps the City needs to Tax Paper Take Out Containers, or Sales at a 50c per order tax for trash pick up.

As Doug Jacobsen uses RDA FUNDS or Holds Advantage his grab of Grand Terrace Just keeps getting larger and larger...

Projects Listed on His Web Page:

Grand Terrace; Hollywood Video; 4,216 square feet – Single Tenant
Grand Terrace; Stater Brothers & Retail Shops; 117,716 square feet (in Pre Development)
Grand Terrace; Sav-on Drug Store (Albertsons) NOW CVS; 13,274 square feet – Single Tenant
Grand Terrace; Subway & Little Caesars Pizza; 3,000 square feet
Grand Terrace; 18 SFR Subdivision; 2.55 Acres; Fully Entitled

And We hear of more under other people's names.

From in the News: Invasion or Blessing

U.K. retailer Tesco plans Inland invasion

10:09 AM PDT on Wednesday, September 26, 2007
pe.com

http://www.pe.com/localnews/coronaarea/business/PE_Biz_D_tesco26.311a11d.html

By LOU HIRSH
The Press-Enterprise

Map: Tesco's Inland locations

RIVERSIDE - British retailer Tesco rolled out plans Tuesday to open 48 Inland locations of its Fresh & Easy Neighborhood Market stores by the end of 2009.

Its first two Inland stores are slated to open by year's end in Hemet and Upland, said Tim Mason, CEO of Tesco's U.S. operations. Another 17 Inland locations will open in 2008, followed by 29 in 2009.

Thirty-three Inland cities are slated to get a Fresh & Easy -- 20 in Riverside County and 13 in San Bernardino County -- with multiple locations slated for cities including Riverside, Moreno Valley, Murrieta and Rialto. Many of those are already under construction or in development, while some sites are still being negotiated.

A Las Vegas storefront is a typical Fresh & Easy Neighborhood Market. A complete products list is not available, but generally they will include ready-to-eat fresh and prepared foods, with organic offerings, as well as products geared toward Latinos.

At a morning gathering at the Mission Inn hosted by the Greater Riverside Chambers of Commerce, Mason said that by the time the stores open, the company will employ about 1,500 at its Inland stores and another 1,500 at its distribution center nearing completion off Interstate 215 near Riverside.

Mason said Tesco's key goal has been reaching "under served" areas in all types of neighborhoods, regardless of demographics. "Tesco hasn't grown big in this business by being a niche (retailer)," Mason said. "Our success is in serving everybody."

The Inland stores are among the first wave of more than 300 that Tesco plans to open in Southern California, Arizona and Nevada, as the global grocery giant makes its first foray into the U.S. market.

Mason said the company during the past few years did extensive household research before deciding to open stores in America.

"We went into homes and asked people what foods they liked and looked at what they had in their pantries," Mason said.

Tesco's new markets will debut in every demographic, Tim Mason said. "Our success is in serving everybody," he says.

Tesco has not released a complete product list, but the stores, on average about 10,000 square feet, will feature ready-to-eat fresh and prepared foods, with several organic and private-label offerings, as well as products geared toward Latino consumers. The goal is to allow busy customers to get in and out quickly, Mason said.

John Burry, chief commercial officer for Fresh & Easy, said many of those foods, such as juices and cooked meals, will be prepared at a 90,000-square-foot kitchen being completed adjacent to its distribution center at the Meridian business park.

Tesco has suppliers, such as Wild Rocket Foods, that are also in the Riverside area, and the company will make use of locally grown produce when possible, Burry said.

The company began recruiting employees last week in Hemet. The distribution center, which is set to open before year's end, will serve all of its Southern California stores. Tesco spokesman Simon Uwins said some employees have begun working at completed portions of the distribution center in anticipation of the store openings.

Mason said workers at the Fresh & Easy stores will make at least $10 per hour, and the company will make provisions for flexible scheduling. Those who work at least 20 hours weekly will receive health care coverage and will be eligible for a 401(k) and other benefits.

Mason reiterated the company's goal to be a "good neighbor" and environmental steward, pointing to its use of a rooftop solar-panel system on its distribution center and a packaging recycling program that will be based there. The company also recently introduced energy-efficient delivery trucks that will have to follow curfews during certain times to avoid making noise or disturbing neighborhoods.

Gramps Writes:

To title this an "Invasion" is a stretch and perhaps only thought of in those terms by people like Jack Brown. We must remember that much of our Capital Resources are actually still owned by England, or British Banking Interests. Let us not get in to the who really owns Wall Mart. Look where the products come from as a hint.

I welcome the Use of the Soon to be Abandoned Site of the Current Stater's Store in GT to a TESCO that promises to have an eye to the "Mexican Market" and more fresh fruits and vegetables that provided by Stater's. Local Produce, well the City Council has done its best to end all Farming in Grand Terrace, but we'll see how local, local can be. There are still farms in Redlands, Loma Linda, and Riverside.

I would not like to see a NEW 3rd Site Developed for a Grocery Store. I hope TESCO has leased the soon to be Vacant Stater Brother's Store. The City should expidite any building permits to make the transition move along quickly. Pre-Existing Development should have Priority for Redevelopment and Permits, and failure to provide this Priority can cost the Redevelopment Agency and City, significant settlement costs. Pre-Existing Businesses hurt by Redevlopment Agency Actions can ask to be compensated for business and income lost. This is provided by law so that Existing Businesses are not put at a disadvantage in the free market we are supposed to have in this country.


This sounds like an Improvement of the Offerings provided at Stater Brother’s Market. When was the last time LOCAL PRODUCE was provided a place on Jack’s Shelf? As a matter of fact if you don’t have a BULK ITEM farmed by a MEGA Farm you won’t see shelf space in a Stater Brother’s Market.

Let us hope TESCO provides GT with a better selection of WHOLE FRESH FOODS and Better Options in the Ready to Eat, and Packaged Food Items that what we find flooding Stater Brother’s Shelves of Late.

Let us Hope that TESCO moves into the Current Stater Brother’s Market Space Prior to the building of the MEGA STATER'S with its larger Liquor Section and Fry Kitchen is built and develops additional addictions and easy access to quench those addictions.

I will shop in GT again if a Non Stater’s comes into town. Until then, I shop for groceries out of town.

Let Us also hope that the TESCO Store will incorporate Green Technology, PV Solar Cells to power some if not all of the store, including possibly putting in PV Solar Cells in the Parking Lot on top of attractive structures of some sort which would provide shade for Parked cars, and Energy for the store.

IF you are interested in a Job with TESCO the Jobs are Posted on their Website Below or go to a Job Fair:

October 16, 2007 Riverside, CA EVENT: Riverside Careerbuilder Job Fair
TIME: 10:00AM – 3:00PM
LOCATION: Riverside Convention Center, Ben H Lewis Hall
ADDRESS: 3443 Orange Street
Riverside, CA
92501

December 6, 2007 Ontario, CA EVENT: Inland Empire Hirequest Job Fair
TIME: 9:00AM – 12:30PM
LOCATION: Ontario Convention Center
ADDRESS: 1201 S. Figueroa Street
Ontario, CA
91764

http://www.freshandeasy.com/home.aspx

The map link below just shows the intersection of Barton Rd and Mt. Vernon Ave. Grand Terrace as being the "location".

http://maps.yourgmap.com/v/q_ro_Tesco_ss_Inland_locations.html

Question: Corner of Canal/Mt. Vernon AVE?

Where is the plan to use the Edison Field as a Construction Staging area? Was that in the EIR where are the temporary fences to protect children from the "Attractive Nuisance" of parked trucks tractors and equipment? Does Edison know the field is being used? Is this an Edison Project that was not on the Agenda?

What is happening... are they perhaps going to leave behind a Dog Park in their wake or a bunch of un-used construction material and dust?

If this is going to be a Cement Mixing Station for the Senior Villas, I sure hope the folks at the Highlands have been informed to wear their dust masks and keep their windows closed.

More from the Email In Box: Fat Food Fast Food Plan

Once again Stephen Wall is way off track. He only seems to listen to the city manager who is dieing to overbuild and over populate our streets.

Why in the world do we need more fast food. Everyone is too fat. Arnold is running campaigns to get people to eat healthy and exercise more.

Grand Terrace won’t maintain the streets now, what will happen when they have all the shops they want. Oh yea, they will be able to pay with the increase in revenue. The truth is Schwab, Ferre, Cortez and what’s his name, oh yeah, ding dong Buchanon will not be around to enjoy the traffic, vandalism, smog and all around disillusionment.

What our city needs are new City Council members. Two are up for re-election. That means two seats are available.

The present city council is running up debt, traffic, air pollution and crime.

We need to bring back the Recreation Department and get children 12 and up involved.

From IN The NEWS and Email IN BOX:

9-22-07 Riverside Press “Your Views”

Reject Spanish signs Instead of going to a home-improvement store off Limonite Avenue, I stopped at a new one off Interstate 15. I'm not against people trying to improve themselves and their families, but they should do it legally and embrace this country by trying to learn English. Every sign in this new store was in Spanish. Why would anyone want to learn English when a store makes it so easy to not have to?

Also, how do non-English speakers communicate at the cash register? Are more jobs going to go to people who also speak Spanish? I will drive farther to a store that doesn't engage in this kind of thing, and it is the last time I shop at a store that does.

MICK MEYER Norco

Gramps Adds:

Try to get a job in construction, a hardware store, restaurant, or farm without being fluent or functional in Spanish. Some Jobs will not hire an American Citizen. I too think there has to be a way for the legal flow of people from place to place. Perhaps Mexico could Welcome Americans first policy by eliminating all their limits to moving to Mexico... It would be a great place to retire. Perhaps Mexico can pay for all of us to learn Spanish.

9-22-07 Sun “The Buzz” Grand Terrace

People here are staving for places to eat out. The city lacks a McDonald’s, Carl’, Jr., Jack in the Box and other nationally prominent fast-food chains. That leaves the few food outlets in the city overflowing with customers. Business is booming at the new Miguel’s Jr. Mexican restaurant on Barton Road.

The recently opened Subway Sandwich shop and Little Caesar’s Pizza are also busting, city officials say. The city plans for a new shopping center with several restaurants along Barton Road.

That should help quiet The growling stomachs a bit more.

Stephen Wall

Emailer's Comment:

Lets get ready to call Barton Road the fast food, junk food restaurants row. Come See The fat Grand Terraceans.

Gramps Comment:

You can add to this a question. How are the other Pizza Parlors Doing? Has their business been affected by Discount Pizza. How many Pizza Boxes and Drink Cups and Napkins, from Cesar's Have you seen in the parking lot of CVS and in the street at Barton and Mt. Vernon? How many Miguel Cups are on the streets as I type... To be honest I counted 6 on my way down the hill tonight.

How is more available Fast Food, going to help our Youth under the age of a minimum wage work permit? A place to hang out and eat fried food. Now that is showing real concern for the community.

Take Out Food collects Sales Tax... Eat In Food does not. You figure out why the Dine In Restaurants are being subjected to the City's Promotion of the Fast Food Freeway aka Barton Rd.

To suggest GT Citizens are Starving, and Fast Food is the way to Feed them is an insult on many levels. The Article Fed to Steve Wall does indicate what the City Manager and City Council and Doug Jacobsen is planning for the "Up Scale Development City Center"... that we could not have developed in a "Natural" Development.

Had nuff yet folks?

LA Times 9-22-07 In Brief

Coastal panel’s staff faults Home Depot plans Plans for a new Home Depot near Belmont Shore do not meet state rules for coastal development, The CA Coastal Commission staff said Friday. The staff recommends hat the commission reject the 16-acre project at its Oct. 10 meeting in San Pedro because of Traffic, environmental and safety problems, and because the parcel lacks a legal permit. Home Depot remains Committed to the project, a spokeswomen said. The report is available at www.coastal.ca.gov/mtgcurr.html.

Special HS3 Meeting Agenda: AES MISSING ISSUE

Note the Absence of the AES Power Plant on the Agenda for Discussion between the CJUSD Board and the GT City Council. This is a Health Issue and should be a part of the collaboration if the City Council truly has the Best Interest of the Students in mind.

Also note the lack of Detail provided. The Typical CJUSD Board Meetings have an Agenda Listing and Agenda in Detail with support Documents and Exhibits. This Meeting being with the City of Grand Terrace provides only the bare bones outline as is the typical City of Grand Terrace practice. This in effect frustrates the efforts of citizens in becoming informed participants in the discussion and process.

SPECIAL
Joint Discussion Session
Board of Education and Grand Terrace City Council '
September 25, 2007
6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

AGENDA
I. CALL TO ORDER
Roll Call

Mr. Frank A. Ibarra (President) _____
Mr. Kent Taylor (Vice President) _____
Mrs. Marge Mendoza-Ware (Clerk) _____
Mr. Mel Albiso _____
Mr. Robert D. Armenta, Jr. _____
Mr. Mark Hoover _____
Mr. David R. Zamora _____
Mr. James A. Downs _____
Mr. Casey Cridelich _____
Mr. Jerry Almendarez _____
Mrs. Yolanda Cabrera _____
Mr. Rick Dischinger _____
Dr. Diane D'Agostino _____
Mrs. Bertha Arreguín _____
Mrs. Alice Grundman _____
Mr. Roger Kowalski _____
Mrs. Ingrid Munsterman _____
Mrs. Julia Nichols _____
Mr. Michael Townsend _____
Ms. Katie Orloff _____
Mrs. Chris Estrada _____

Location: CJUSD Student Services Center Board Room 851 South Mt. Vernon Avenue Colton, California

Special Joint Discussion Session

September 25, 2007

City of Grand Terrace Representatives
Maryetta Ferré, Mayor
Lee Ann Garcia, Mayor Pro Tem
Bea Cortes, Council Member
Jim Miller, Council Member
Dan Buchanan, Council Member
Tom Schwab, City Manager
Gary Koontz, Community Development Director
Richard Shields, Building & Safety/Public Works Director
John Harper, City Attorney
Brenda Mesa, City Clerk

II. Announcement Regarding Public Comment for Agendized and Non-Agendized Items (Gov. Code 54954.3[a])

Board President clarifies the process regarding public comment and requests that the appropriate ―Public Comment Card‖ be filled out completely. At the appropriate time each speaker will be invited to the podium and should begin by stating his or her name and residing city. No more than three minutes will be allotted to any speaker and no more than fifteen minutes per subject unless authorized by the Board President (BP 1245). Blue card—Specific Agendized Item: Please list the specific agenda item number and subject White card—Non-Agendized Item: Please list topic / subject

III. PUBLIC COMMENT

1. Public Comment: Specific Agendized Items (blue card; list item # and subject)
2. Public Comment: Non-Agendized Items or Other Subjects (white card; list topic)

IV. DISCUSSION TOPICS

1. High School #3 – Casey Cridelich, Assistant Superintendent, Business
Alice Grundman, Facilities Director
2. Development of Main Street (Alice Grundman, Gary Koontz)
3. Railroad Right-of-Way (Alice Grundman, Richard Shields)
4. Grand Terrace Perspective—History of High School #3 (Tom Schwab)
5. K & J Plating, located at the corner of Main St. and Taylor (Gary Koontz)

V. ADJOURNMENT

From the Email InBox: Paying for Criminal Activities

Dear Gramps:

In reading the Arrests and Bookings Report a couple of thoughts came to mind.

Is it possible to find out what these people arrested are doing in GT if they are not Residents? What Businesses are "Attracting Them". Are they drinking at a bar, or frequenting a particular area for a particular reason?

Why on earth is anyone "Released" if they have Failed to Appear in Court Charges Pending?

Perhaps we need a Paddy Wagon, or Holding Cell so our Officers can round up criminals and make only one trip to booking a shift. Time lost between booking is no doubt the reason the folks with outstanding warrants are released with a citation only.

How many of these folks are In Country Illegally or may have more serious warrants out of state or county?

Perhaps a business who attracts criminal activities or criminals could be fined or taxed for contributing to the cost of law enforcement. For Example, a DUI Arrest of a person leaving a Bar should also result in the Bar being Fined.

Reply from Gramps:

Interesting Idea, tax the source of the problem rather than the general population. I agree that bars and even the proposed LOWES should pay for added cost of law enforcement. A person who owns a house and attracts criminals can be financially responsible including the loss of their property.

It should be a part of the calculation of "Sustainability of a Development", does it attract criminal activity and other costs to the community in excess of revenues generated.

JOINT MEETING

GRAND TERRACE CITY COUNCIL

&

COLTON JOINT UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD

A Joint Meeting between the Grand Terrace City Council and the Colton Joint Unified School District Board will be held on Tuesday, September 25, 2007 at 6:00 p.m. The meeting will be held at 851 S. Mt. Vernon Avenue in Colton.

From the Email INBOX: Planning Commission Meeting

Planning CommisssionThe G.T. Planning Commission meeting for the evening of 20th is canceled.

Items for discussion have been pushed forward to the4 th of October now.

Thus zero Planning Comission meetings for month of September.

Honor of Military does Not Depend on War’s Outcome:

Military Honor is bestowed upon All Those Who Serve, Enlisted or Draftee
Military Honor is bestowed upon All Those Who Serve with Honor

There is Honor in those who are In the Military and Obey Orders to Fight.
There is Honor in those Military who have returned from the Field of Battle and Refuse to Return. We must listen to the reason for their refusal, and decision to sacrifice their freedom for their reason.

The Honor-ability of the Individuals or the Military as a Whole is not related to the Policy Decision of the White House or the Senate.

The only Dishonor that can come of this moment in history will be born by those who manipulated information, took profits, and entered into a war with motives other than the protection of our country, or providing freedom for a population under persecution, duress, and oppression.

The Dishonor that can come from this point in history is if Policy Makers keep Military in place to perpetuate profits, and prejudices that will ultimately result in a more grievous blood letting if we had not intervened in the first place.

The Dishonor of War is only that conditions were not appropriately managed to prevent war.

The Dishonor of War is that IF it need be waged, it should be waged by the entire country a Draft Started after 30 days of conflict. The Pre-War Troops and Reserves are only the First Wave of Defense. IF there is NEED for a War it should be declared and a Draft Began Immediately. All should share in the burden of War if it is Necessary to go to war. IF this was the Law, WE may be slower at jumping into a war for reasons other than absolute necessity. This would be more Honorable.

We must remember all those who return to us after serving in War are Impacted from the Experience. This is the price paid as individuals and as a society. An Individual may act in way that do not being Honor to the individual. However, a decision to go to war or stay in a war is not a result of that Individual Soldiers action and does not taint the "Honor of the Military" if the Military does not support or order Dishonorable Conduct by individuals or as a Practice.

History will tell if the High Price Paid was well spent. Staying because we have spent lives, to honor those spent lives is the worst reason to stay a policy maker can provide. You don’t Honor the Dead and Injured by making more Dead and Injured.

Yes, when we have Military at War we should Remember Their Contribution and Sacrifice and support their Families left at home, and them upon their return, as if it were your child, spouse, grand child serving the Call to Duty.

War is Dishonor of God's Will.

When we let PEACE Fail we Fail GOD.

When there is a War Fight With The Goal of PEACE,

not Profit, not Oil, or Promotion of

One Religion or Government System or Economics as the cause of "Peace".

This is related to Grand Terrace.

Think About IT.

Please Write:

Cardenas Markets

President – Jesus Cardenas Sr.
Vice President – Luz Cardenas
Vice President, Marketing – Jesus Cardenas Jr.
Vice President, Operations – Jose Cardenas
Vice President, Accounting – Lupe Cardenas
Vice President, Information Services – George Cardenas

General Offices/Warehouse
1040 South Vintage Ave. Suite A
Ontario, CA 91761
Tel - (909) 923-7426
Fax - (909) 923-4665

Ask them to Move into the Market area that Stater Brother's is Moving Out Of.

If they sign a Lease now they can possibly get into the location before Stater's can build and occupy the "New Mega Stater's Store". This will aid in developing a Customer Base.

Check Out their Prices.... http://www.cardenasmarkets.com/main_ads.aspx

How MUCH?

How Much did the GT Partners already Cost the City of Grand Terrace?

How Much did the City Spend on the Flawed and Court Reversed Outdoor Adventure Center?

How Much did the City Spend trying to Defend the Flawed Outdoor Adventure Center?

Council Member Miller has asked for this information to be compiled including the use of the City Staff, and City Legal Advisers. However this information was not made available to the Public.

Why when the Court Reversed "All Approvals" related to the OAC it did not include the "Exclusive Agreement" with GT Painters?, all code and zone changes and so forth related to the area?

How Much of the Design and Documentation will be done by the Part Time Employer of the Planning Departments own Employees, who are also related to GT Partners, LLC. Isn't this not only double dipping but a Conflict of Interest?

How much will the "NEW" Proposal Really cost the Citizens including Added Crime, Traffic, and If there is a LOWES as Mayor Farre pines for, Day Labor Camps, and the Storage and Distribution of Hazardous Materials in an area that is a watershed to the Santa Anna River System.

How much will be needed before some Agency or Lawyer or some Government Official with the Power to Investigate the Real Finances, the Real Conflicts of Interest, and Real Sustainability of any of the Schwab RDA Proposed Developments.

How much has Terra Loma and Gene Carlstrom been paid from the year 2000 to current in the various transactions with the RDA. How many of these opportunities were offered by competitive bids or RFP's (Request for Proposals)?

How Much Must WE TAKE?

IF we want to be run like Fontana and Colton, why duplicate the City Manager, and City Council Functions... we may as well just Anex us to them if this is the type of City We "Want" to be.

IN A BLINK OF AN EYE and a Signing of an MOU the City Council approved an increase of RDA Debt from 15 Million to 65 Million... that will cost 200 Million to Pay Back.... Gee and GT Partners will be kicking in 300.000.00... Oh my...

HOW MUCH MORE OF THIS CAN WE TAKE BEFORE THE BALLOON of DEBT, POPS?

GT For Sale:
Foreclosure

Will be the next thing we have to look forward to under this City Manager... and City Council

Like in Fontana and Colton: Debt is Good is their RDA Mantra.

At a minimum the Citizens and the Future Buyer of Grand Terrace should know what they would be Buying if the City was Sold at a Foreclosure Auction.

Have we HAND ENOUGH YET? IS there NO AGENCY TO PROTECT US FROM THE TYRANNY OF DEBT and OVER REACHING RDA TRANSGRESSION and FOLLY?

IN THE NEWS: INDOOR RETAIL ADVENTURE CENTER

Gramps:

Mar Ventures Web Page:
http://www.marventures.com/

Click on Current Projects You Will see Grand Terrace on the list:
There is a Picture I can't capture...

However it says:

Location: Grand Terrace, Ca
Size: 400,000 SF Retail and 200 Units on 84 Acres
Product Type: Mixed-Use Masterplan
Commencement: 2005
Completion 2009 est
Partners: Center Square Holdings, Inc.

Looking for who's Who?

Corporation
Corporation
MAR VENTURES, INC.
Number: C1881584 Date Filed: 2/10/1994 Status: active
Jurisdiction: California
Address
2050 W 190TH ST STE 108
TORRANCE, CA 90504
Agent for Service of Process
ALLAN W MACKENZIE
2050 W 190TH ST STE 108
TORRANCE, CA 90504

CENTER SQUARE HOLDINGS, INC.
Number: C2682978 Date Filed: 11/12/2004 Status: active
Jurisdiction: California
Address
2815 TOWNSGATE RD #140
WESTLAKE VILLAGE, CA 91361
Agent for Service of Process
RICHARD A LAWRENCE
2815 TOWNSGATE RD #140
WESTLAKE VILLAGE, CA 91361

LP/LLC
GRAND TERRACE PARTNERS, LLC
Number: 200432010224 Date Filed: 11/10/2004 Status: active
Jurisdiction: CALIFORNIA
Address
2050 W 190TH ST STE 108
TORRANCE, CA 90504
Agent for Service of Process
RICHARD A LAWRENCE
2815 TOWNSGATE RD STE 140
WESTLAKE VILLAGE, CA 91361

Didn't we hear Schawb and Jacobsen refer to the Revised Town Center as being Town Square? Is Jacobsen in on the NEW DEAL TOO?

Gramps:

Stephen Wall Reporter for the Sun Telegram once again beats the City Management’s Drum and does not report the WHOLE STORY:

Missing from his report is the MOU’s Statement which will demand the City RDA and City Council to increase the RDA DEBT from 15 Million to 65 Million, and extend the Existence of the RDA’s Tyrany over the Citizens, Businesses and Landowners of Grand Terrace, both in Jurisdiction and in the Number of Years to be Suffered.

Missing from his report is that the GT Partners LLC were the same people that cost the City untold legal expense in trying to defend their Grandiouse, Flauded and Finacialy Troubling Development formerly known as “Outdoor Adventure Center”. Judge Wade’s court REVERSED ALL APPROVALS related to the OAC. One would assume that would also have reversed any prior obligation or relationship carryover between the City and Grand Terrace Partners, LLC.

A Legitimate Developer would not have taken such a undependable approach to development as GT Partners and the Schwab tried.

Now Stephen Wall is not in the position to ask Ms. Ferre how she will deal with the Day Workers she will be inviting if the Council Approves a LOWES to Grand Terrace. Nor did he ask why she thinks inviting the Traffic to Grand Terrace 24/7 is better than the occasional annoyance of traveling to a Lowes. Lowes primary customers are contractors and they will continue the practice of having Pick Up Labor.

With the other suggestions being dropped as possible tenants, none are likely to be a good fit to Grand Terrace. These will all require Heavy Increases in Traffic Stopping to Shop in Grand Terrace. This should demand that the speed limit in the area should now be changed to 35mph to train the residents and transient traffic that this is a RETAIL/SCHOOL AREA.

GRAND TERRACE is about to Join COLTON and FONTANA with the HIGHEST DEBT PER CITIZEN CLUB. ALL Brought to you by having a REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY.

What is the alternative? Well if a Natural Approach was taken it would be the Developer who would have to make road improvements rather than the RDA’s Obligation. It would be the Developer who has to pay fair market value for land from the Property Owner’s who want to sell when they want to sell. It would be the Developer who determines best use within the existing zoning and use codes. It would not be the City or the RDA saying you build it we’ll change the codes and zoning and plans to FIT YOU.

CONTACT THE SUN TELEGRAM

ASK THEM TO REPORT THE ENTIRE STORY

Publisher's office
Publisher Fred Hamilton fred.hamilton@sbsun.com
Administrative AssistantNancy Kay nancy.kay@sbsun.com

GT gives green light to project planning
Stephen Wall, Staff Writer
Article Launched: 09/12/2007 10:26:44 PM PDT

http://www.sbsun.com/news/ci_6877687

Contact writer Stephen Wall at (909) 386-3916 or via e-mail at stephen.wall@sbsun.com.

GRAND TERRACE - Plans for developing the largest piece of vacant land in the city are moving forward.

The City Council approved an agreement on Tuesday with a group of developers to prepare plans for a roughly 100-acre freeway-oriented retail center.

The mixed-use project is intended to provide the city with the tax revenues necessary to sustain services such as police and fire protection.

"Once we build out Barton Road and this particular freeway project, it should provide enough annual income for our city operations now and into the future," City Manager Tom Schwab said.

The memorandum of understanding spells out the responsibilities of the developers, and the city in moving the project forward.

Specific uses have not been determined for the land east of the 215 Freeway and south of Barton Road.

The group of developers is known as Grand Terrace Partners LLC, which includes Torrance-based real estate firm Mar Ventures Inc., national-marketing specialists Madison Marquette and Los Angeles attorney Richard Lawrence.
The developers have been working with the city since 2004 on a concept for development of the area.

The city originally planned a retail project featuring boat and watercraft dealers, but a market study showed those land uses did not make economic sense.

Three years ago, the city signed an exclusive negotiating agreement with Grand Terrace Partners after talking to several other developers.
That initial agreement has expired, but the city and Grand Terrace Partners have informally agreed to continue working together on the project.
Tuesday night's council action, approved by a 4-0 vote with Council member Jim Miller abstaining, formally extends the earlier agreement.

Miller expressed concern about the city not using a formal bidding process to allow other developers to submit proposals.

"From the outside looking in, it would look like they had an inside shot," Miller said of Grand Terrace Partners. "It could come back and bite us."

Schwab said Grand Terrace Partners has a proven track record of accomplishment with the city and it would be unfair to allow other developers to enter the picture now.
Under the agreement, Grand Terrace Partners will pay about $300,000 for planning, environmental work, land appraisals and other design expenses.
They also will line up tenants for the center.

The city and Redevelopment Agency will be responsible for selecting firms to do a new Specific Plan and an environmental-impact report.

The city also will provide input to ensure that state and local transportation agencies complete traffic improvements needed for the project to move forward.
Schwab said the project will have two anchor tenants - possibly a home improvement store and a mixed-retail store such as Mervyn's, Target or Kohl's.
Several smaller stores would be included in the plan.

In addition, the project will have a residential component, although it hasn't been determined whether it will be homes, apartments or condominiums.
It will take about three years to complete the project, said Allan Mackenzie, president of Mar Ventures.

Mayor Maryetta Ferre said a quality retail center near the freeway is very important to the city's future.

"It's getting more and more difficult to travel to a Lowe's or to a Trader Joe's because of the traffic," Ferre said. "It would be very nice if we could provide those services here, yet do it in a very upscale way and still maintain the charm and sophistication of the city. I think these (developers) can help us do that."

MOU Loaded with PORK APPROPTRATIONS

The MOU agreed upon by 4 of the 5 Council Members Contains Authorization for the RDA to increase the RDA DEBT from 15 Million to 65 Million and more. THIS IS from an RDA Director and City Council that refuses to accept DEBT as being the same as Operating in the RED or at a Deficit as the rest of us in our Daily Lives would consider.


So not only were the Citizens Sold out to the GT Partners for 300.000.00 (Yes that is more than a quarter of a Million Dollars, but it is also about the price of a house in GT)... WE were put further into Slavery by the Company Store Mentality of the City Council and RDA by forcing an increased Debt Burden and Longer Dictatorship of the RDA over the Lives of the Citizens and Property and Business owners of GT.

Not only is this bad economics, not sustainable management practices, the methods used should be illegal and the conflict of interest and practices should be investigated by all levels of government from Federal on down.

Council Member Miller was correct in Abstaining on Approval of the MOU... He would have been better served to have voted NO. He would have gotten the Same Dirty Look that the Mayor Gave him when she realized he Abstained, as if to say... "How Dare He".

Council Member Miller's Paper Received over $6,000.00 in payments for Advertising. The Ads were printed, and the services rendered at the same rate any other business would pay. The real question should be is this an Expense that should have been Paid by the City of Grand Terrace? Isn't it Burtec's (Trash Service) Job or in their interest to pay for such an ad? Did the change not get sufficient attention at City Council Meetings, and in Press Coverage that justified an ADD TOO?

Or was this a way to entrap the Millers in some way, to get Council Member Miller Obligated to toe the line...

Spending 6000.00 to "Inform" the Public about a service change that was not much of a big deal. and then NOT Informing the Public that their DEBT was going to go from 15 to 65 Million with an MOU between the City and GT Partners who failed in their "Development Plan of the OAC". Question the Intent of the City Manager, and City Staff, and the other 4 City Council Members before you think of Charging the Millers of taking advantage. "After all the add was not put out to BID".

The Compensation for the Council Members and the credit card expenses should be looked into. I doubt that they can justify spending 200.00 per month for transportation expense. If they can perhaps they should stay home more often.

A.G. Jerry Brown, US District Attorney, FBI, IRS and CREW should look into the FINE DETAILS of this MOU. Our "Local DA Corruption Division is Impotent"

From the Email Inbox: Buchanan and AES Power Plant

It was nice that the City Council Member went to inspect a Power Station, and apparently has come to a conclusion with out the AES Power Plant being on the Agenda... or taking in a Real Public Hearing on the Matter, or putting forth a Motion to put the AES Power Plant on the Agenda.

Why would CJUSD School Board Leave GT?

Well, let's begin with the City Manager's Plan to Close GT Elementary School and convert the property to Commercial Use.

Let's follow up with the Dead Power Plant "Never to be Started Up Again" being re-established just Feet from Athletic Fields where our Students will be involved in physical activity.

Let's follow up with a Plan to Develop the Old OAC Area with the traffic ending up on "Main" street... Now how is that not going to impact the High School? Teleportation perhaps...

Well, let's hope the CJUSD has the foresight to include in their MOU to go forward with the HS3 the following conditions.

One: The Entire City Council and City Staff above Clerk will live at the school in trailers or during all hours the Peaker Plant is in operation and they will also have to walk the track while the Power Plant is in Operation during School Hours.

Two: GT ELM will be Preserved or Replaced at the Cost of the City of Grand Terrace and the Personal Income and Finances of the City Management and City Council.

Three: Mayor Ferre will act as Ball Room Clerk 20 hours a month. Making sure all balls are properly used and kept in place.

Four: City Manager Schwab will manage traffic by personally directing it during the hour before school and after school and for any games or functions at the school. The CJUSD will provide white gloves... and a vest.

From the Email INBox: Speed Available in GT

Gramps...

Get off the Freeway and Stop at the Red Lights, and then go past a School, and Retail area... don't drive a reasonable speed of 35mph which would be the speed if no other is posted and no children are at school, then it would be 25mph... then drive through the main part of town, and as you get past the fork in the road the sped limit goes up to 40, and then you navigate through two stop lights and two lanes becoming one on a narrow land bridge with a curve. Then arrive on a short strip just prior to a STOP LIGHT that is posted as 50MPH...

First of all lets face the reality of the short strip of 50 MPH on the Colton Piece of Barton RD. That speed limit says, Colton PD is not going to do Speed enforcement on a 1/4 mile of road.

Second: The above speed limts preclude the use of LEV's in Grand Terrace. (Light Electric Vehicles). You see, you can't get from the Proposed Grand Terrace Senior Housing or the North End of GT to the South End as a LEV can only go on a street with a speed limit of 35mph or less.

SO:

IF Barton Rd from the West Most Grand Terrace City Line to Mt. Vernon should or could be 35mph, and the area from Past the Fork in the Road Palm/Barton Rd Fork could begin the 40mph section, (LEV's Could use Palm and Preston to get to the Library and Banks and so forth.) Then 40 to 45 the rest of the way from the Preston Fork to the East End of Barton RD.

This would be not only a safe option, but also a logical one. It would allow for the Seniors to use LEV's and this would be GREEN. It would slow down traffic around a school and in busy shopping district, where PEDESTRIANS, and CARS are all on the INCREASE...

The Recommendation was reasonable... and there was a reasonable way of making them fit... BUT NO Reason went right past the City Council... as so much does.

So much for helping Seniors not NEED their individual large cars to go to the market or run errands in town. There is no functional Public Transportation where the Villa's are... Once again they are not seeing past their personal need for speed. There is much more than how "They Like to Drive" to think about.

From the Email InBox: Tonights MOU

Gramps:

Please know the MOU is with the same people who:

Brought the Grandiose Plan for the Outdoor Adventure Center:
Judge Wade set that plan and approvals back to ZERO because:

No Traffic or Circulation Plan.
Adverse Effect Community Financial Obligations to meet the UNDER PLANED INFRASTRUCTURE COSTS.

IN ADDITION:

Portions of the City Planning Department work "Part Time" for the City and "Part Time" for one of the Partners of "Grand Terrace Partners, LLC". IF this is not a conflict of Interest I don't know what is.

IN ADDITION:

Mr. Schwab's dislike for "Natural Development" is equal to the removal of Property Rights of anyone owning land in the Proposed Development Area and the Adjacent Property and roads.

Directing "Circulation" ie Traffic to MAIN street away from the High School? Where is that going to go? The Sketches will shock the PUBLIC and the Colton Joint Unified School District Board Members.

Drawings and Maps showing GT Elm School as Commercial Property and not a School, is a demonstration of the Disrespect the City Manager has for the School Board.

The City going around to land owners and suggesting zone changes, so that "Plans" can be done, is only a way for the city to deny land owners flexibility in the use and development of their property.

GT Partners. LLC had a ill advised, contract or Exclusive Agreement to Develop the OAC. They have Failed. To continue with them without opening up the concept or opportunity to the citizens, landowners, and yes other developers should be illegal. If it isn't it should be.

If you own property in the Proposed area this agreement means:

YOU may not sell or develop your own property to your own advantage. You may only sell and develop it to the advantage of the RDA/ and the GT Partners.

YOU may be subject to Eminent Domain if your Residential Property is in a Commercial Zone. Remember, your zoning can change at the whim or direction of the Schwab. So IF you live anywhere in GT don't think you enjoy full ownership of your property. IF YOU INVEST in Commercial Property in GT... don't think you have a fair competition.

From the Schwab's own mouth you heard him say HE extended the Exclusive Agreement and the MOU is just formalizing Staff's Decision.

The entire MOU and Drawings will be posted... soon

THE DOCUMENTS SHOULD HAVE BEEN ON THE CITY WEB PAGE... along with the "PLANS".

NO Plan should be accepted for this area until Cal Trans and US DEPT of Transportation have the drawings done in BLACK INK.

IN ADDITION: Natural Development does not increase PUBLIC DEBT of the RDA. The Schwab's Plan will Increase the PUBLIC RDA DEBT.

What you saw was the negotiation for the Prostitution of the City Council, and City Staff for the Benefit of the Developer, and perhaps a few property and business owners. AND the Enslavement of Property Owners and Citizens.

We will all be Indentured Servants or Debt Slaves without the right to use or truly "Own Property"... You saw the sale price for of 300,000.00 You were Sold out GT Citizens... and Property Owners... and the Price was Cheep. As a Matter of fact it wouldn't even buy a house in GT ..... Last Month..

REVISION OF POSTED AGENDA SEPT 11 2007

CITY OF GRAND TERRACE
COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
September 11, 2007
GRAND TERRACE CIVIC CENTER 6:00 PM
22795 Barton Road

* Call to Order -
* Invocation -
* Pledge of Allegiance -
* Roll Call -

CONVENE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY 6 PM
1. Approval of 08-28-2007 Minutes
ADJOURN COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY

CONVENE CITY COUNCIL MEETING
1. Items to Delete
2. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
A. Proclamation - Childhood Cancer Awareness Month - September 2007

3. CONSENT CALENDAR

The following Consent Calendar items are expected to be routine and noncontroversial. They will be acted upon by the Council at one time without discussion. Any Council Member, Staff Member, or Citizen may request removal of an item from the Consent Calendar for discussion.

A. Approve Check Register Dated September 11, 2007
B. Waive Full Reading of Ordinances on Agenda
C. Approval of 08-28-2007 Minutes
D. Award Contract for the Asphalt Crack Sealing to Roadworks, Inc.
E. Authorize Funds from Undesignated General Fund Balance for Two Projects at the Grand Terrace Child Care Center

THE CITY OF GRAND TERRACE COMPLIES WITH THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT OF 1990. IF YOU REQUIRE SPECIAL ASSISTANCE TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS MEETING, PLEASE CALL THE CITY CLERK=S OFFICE AT (909) 824-6621 AT LEAST 48 HOURS PRIOR TO THE MEETING. IF YOU DESIRE TO ADDRESS THE CITY COUNCIL DURING THE MEETING, PLEASE COMPLETE A REQUEST TO SPEAK FORM AVAILABLE AT THE ENTRANCE AND PRESENT IT TO THE CITY CLERK. SPEAKERS WILL BE CALLED UPON BY THE MAYOR AT THE APPROPRIATE TIME.

F. Award of the Street Slurry Contract to American Asphalt, Inc. for the 2007-08 Slurry Seal Program

4. PUBLIC COMMENT
This is the opportunity for members of the public to comment on any items not appearing on the regular agenda. Because of restrictions contained in California Law, the City Council may not discuss or act on any item not on the agenda, but may briefly respond to statements made or ask a question for clarification. The Mayor may also request a brief response from staff to questions raised during public comment or may request a matter be agendized for a future meeting.

5. REPORTS
B. Committee Reports
1. Emergency Operations Committee
a. Minutes of August 7, 2007
A. Council Reports
6. PUBLIC HEARINGS

A. An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Grand Terrace, California, Amending Grand Terrace Municipal Code, Chapter 10, Section 10.08, Establishing Speed Limits for Various Streets in the City of Grand Terrace

7. UNFINISHED BUSINESS

A. Second Reading of an Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Grand Terrace Approving Zone Change No. 07-01 (Z-07-01) to Add the R3-S Zoning Classification to the City’s Zoning Code and to Change the Zoning of the Blue Mountain Senior Villas Site Located at 22627 Grand Terrace Road From R1-7.2 (Single Family Residential) to R3-S (Multiple Family-Senior Citizen) and Environmental Assessment No. 07-02 (Final Environmental Impact Report)

Second Reading of an Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Grand Terrace Approving Specific Plan No. 07-01 (SP-07-01 - Blue Mountain Senior Villas Specific Plan) and Environmental Assessment No. 07-02 (Final Environmental Impact Report)

8. NEW BUSINESS

A. Award Street Sweeping Contract with Kellar Sweeping, Inc.
B. Measure I Capital Improvement Plan for FY 2007-2010
C. Memorandum of Understanding with Grand Terrace Partners LLC

9. CLOSED SESSION - None

THE NEXT CRA/CITY COUNCIL MEETING WILL BE A JOINT MEETING WITH THE COLTON JOINT UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD ON TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2007 AT 6:00 P.M.-851 S. MT. VERNON AVENUE, COLTON
AGENDA ITEM REQUESTS MUST BE SUBMITTED IN WRITING TO THE CITY CLERK’S OFFICE NO LATER THAN
14 CALENDAR DAYS PRECEDING THE MEETING

THE CITY WEB PAGE POSTED a LINK FOR SEPT 11 2007 Meeting and then posted an AGENDA that has subsquently been changed to the above. THE MOTIVE? CHECK OUT THE NEW BUSINESS...

Grand Terrace RED LIGHT Photo Enforcement

Gramps Remind Folks:

The North & South Traffic on the Mt. Vernon - Barton Road and Michigan-Barton Road Intersections are in full operation.

One has to wonder why the N/S Traffic and not the E/W traffic on Barton Road... Is it perhaps because our City Council Members want to speed through these intersections without enforcement? I doubt that, however I do think that they are all for keeping high speeds and high traffic on Barton Rd. The Speed Mentality begins on the main road.. Barton Road. If the speed limits were enforced there, and IF Red Light Compliance was enforced there the modified driving behavior may spread into the neighborhoods.

I know several regular GT Drivers who just don't use those intersections. This pushes more drivers... speeding drivers I may add onto our streets with schools and residences.

PEOPLE OF GT... GO on a DRIVE SLOW PROTEST...

Drive UNDER the SPEED LIMIT...

New Businesses try GT:

The Down Town Commercial Center, (where Stater Brother's currently operates) has two new businesses.

Tina's Mexican Restaurant will be located in the former Miguele's Spot. This is the same Tina's that you enjoy in Riverside.

A Dojo (School) for Tae Kuan Do is opening between the China Bowl, and the Tax Preparation Business... Interesting placement... go do your taxes... and work it off at the Dojo.

Please let us support these new businesses and applaud the inclusion of Family Friendly Businesses that will provide some additional activities for your children and youth and all the family. It would be nice to have an entire shopping dinning center that is totaly kid friendly..

Yeah for the new tenants and for not Taking a Business from one location and moving it just down the street... as some other Development Owners have been doing. These are NEW Businesses to Grand Terrace. Bringing NEW Business and Services to Grand Terrace is REAL Economic and Community Growth.

End the School Week on the Roll.....

AFTER-SCHOOL SKATING is from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. every Friday at Cal Skate Grand Terrace, 22080 Commerce Way, Grand Terrace. Admission is $5 and skate rental is $3. For information, visit www.calskategt.com or call 909-783-2342.

Report IS>>>>>>

The Thursday night Planning Commission meeting was cancelled. Next one scheduled up is on the 20th.

Go Green City of GT..... Go Green

Grand Terrace should follow the lead of San Bernardino County. It should encourage the use of Alternative Clean Energy, and start by removing any fees for the installation of Alternative Systems for Power, Heat or Cooling.

Pride in Out of Town Arrests is Flawed Thinking.

When we read the Arrest Report and do a simple search on where the people "Reside" we do find that most live outside of Grand Terrace.

Now we must ask, why are Drunk Drivers, and Drug Dealers, and Drug Users in Grand Terrace?

Are they visiting places that feed their addiction, or on their way home from feeding their addictions or intoxicant of choice?

Is there a correlation with the Graffiti?

Are Noise Ordinances being ignored allowing our "Guests" to Party at Bars or even in Private Homes in Residential areas, only later to get into cars and endanger themselves and others by driving while intoxicated?

Perhaps it is time to have an Ordinance that if you are arrested for DUI .08 the car is Auctioned off. IF you are Arrested for DUI it is Impounded. IF you are a DUI and Live in GT Your Picture should be on a Wall of Shame...

One thing is for sure. We don't need to INVITE more Drunks and Drug Dealers to GT, by allowing loud parties, more alcohol sales and consumption points in the city, and higher speed limits in part of town.

Red Ribbon Week should be a Red Ribbon Year in GT... and not just at schools but the entire city.